Happy New Year!

Blwyddyn Newydd Dda
Feliz Año Nuevo
S Novym Godom
La Multi Ani
Felice Anno Nuovo
Ein glückliches neues Jahr!
Gelukkig Nieuwjaar
Furaha Ya Mwaka Mpya
Chúc Mùng nam mói!
Kung Ho Hsin Hsi
Chestita Nova Godina
Bonne Année
Blian nua faoi mhaise duit
Gott Nytt År
Happy New Year!

Interesting Facts

In honor of the upcoming Sugar Bowl, here's some interesting information about Mountaineer sports. Use it as you see fit...

West Virginia football ranks 17th in all-time Division I-A wins...which is pretty impressive. They rank ahead of teams like Pittsburgh, Texas A&M, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech and Florida. They currently have 641 wins, just 10 wins behind #15 Colorado. They still have a long time to go before reaching Michigan's current win total of 848 wins.

It's a shame those wins couldn't translate into bowl wins. The Mountaineers are 9-15 all-time in bowl games which is pretty dismal. Out of the 37 teams in Division I-A with 20+ bowl appearances, only 4 have worse post-season records than WVU - Arkansas (11-20), TCU (7-13), BYU (7-16) and Texas Tech (8-19). If WVU loses to Georgia, they will fall below Arkansas. Additionally, in its 24 bowl appearances, West Virginia has been outscored by 179 points...only BYU is worse being outscored by 189 in their 24 appearances. Georgia Tech has the best percentage with a 22-11 record (67%). Alabama has appeared in the most bowls (52) and, for those Notre Dame supremists, they are only .500 in bowls with a 13-13 record.

As far as Mountaineer basketball, how about 26th all-time in victories with 1428 through 2004. Naturally, those wins increased by 24 last year and that may move us up in the rankings a little...but we still have a long way to go to catch Kentucky with 1876. The bad news is that as recently as 1999, WVU ranked 18th all-time in basketball wins. So, a lot of teams have won some games in the past 5 years and by-passed the Mounties in all-time wins. But, it's still pretty impressive.

Not as impressive is WVU's #58 rank in attendance last year with just over 8,500 average attendance. That was a major improvement over the previous year though when West Virginia ranked 76th with just over 7,000 at a game. I'm guessing those numbers should shoot up again this year following the miraculous Elite Eight run last year. The last time WVU finished in the Top 25 in attendance was 1982. It is almost an impossibility for them to get back in the Top 25 in attendance now because of the size of the Coliseum versus some of the larger basketball venues that are in existence now, such as Syracuse which holds over 25,000.

Auld Lang Syne

Because I know, as well as you, no one really knows the words until the chorus (must people just mumble), I will now provide you the words to the traditional Auld Lang Syne:

Should auld acquaintance be forgot

and never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot

and days of auld lang syne?

For auld lang syne, my dear,

for auld lang syne,

we'll take a cup of kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot

and never brought to mind? Should auld acquaintance be forgot

and days of auld lang syne?

And here's a hand, my trusty friend

And gie's a hand o' thine

We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet

For auld lang syne

And, for those still yet confused, Auld Lang Syne means Times Gone By. Anyway, I'll update more later...

Ah, Stupidity

Today, I will provide a response to a question I receive far too often: Why don't you ever call me?

There is a reason...I do not like calling people. The thought of picking up the phone and just calling someone out of the blue feels me with anxiousness and dread. It's the same with those who tell me just to stop over by the house. I just can't do it...I don't know why. It literally takes me like 20 minutes to build up the nerve to dial a number on my phone and call someone if I don't have a specific purpose for the call. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't mind talking on the phone if someone calls me...I just have an issue with calling someone else. No idea why...but, that's just the truth of it. So, please don't feel slighted because I don't call you despite your calls to me...that's just the way I am...sorry. But, like I said, feel free to call me if you want...that doesn't bother me.

This has bothered me for a little while and I guess I'll finally write something about it: The very last story on the back page of my Monday Times-West Virginian always contains the "Yours Confidential" by Jewel Kats and David Silverberg. A couple Ann Landers wanna-bes I guess. I mean, I'm going to make fun of them and I'm not even going to mention their pictures. They dispense the stupidest advice I've ever heard in my life. Unhappy? Get happy! Boyfriend cheating on you? Dump him! Wow...what advice! I want to see the credentials of these therapists...I'm guessing they don't have any. I mean, if these two clowns can advise people on how to live their lives, I guess I can too. So, feel free to e-mail me your difficult problems...I will solve them, confidentially of course. But, unlike these two morons, I will make fun of you. It drives me crazy...

I think that's about it for this morning. Oh, the bowl games yesterday were very entertaining. I wonder what would have happened had Michigan scored on that last play? That was crazy. Anyway, that's about it for today...talk to ya later. Oh, and have your people call my people...

Poor Rutgers...

My first thought is...where is Rutgers defense? I mean, the show that Arizona State put on was unbelievable. A lot of yards between the two teams...a lot of points. And, Rutgers fell 45-40. Not a good start for the Big East this bowl season. With that loss, South Florida's tough matchup against NC State, QB-less Louisville against the overrated Marcus Vick and WVU against Georgia...well, it is possible that the Big East could go 0-4 in bowls this year. I hope that's not the case but it's possible...and, if that occurs, let the beatings begin because the Big East will be called BCS pretenders all over again...it won't be pretty.

The television coverage for the game was not good. If I had to hear about how entertaining the Pac-10 was one more time, I think I was going to be ill. The bias against the Big East is obvious...and, if you don't believe it, watch this game. Nothing good was ever mentioned about the Big East or the other teams in the Big East...but, Musberger and his counterpart continually mentioned the Pac-10 and how good the teams from the Pac-10 were and how entertaining they are. Of course, why should the coverage be any different from the rest of ESPN?

Anyway, my bowl predictions aren't doing well and that's all that matters. I don't have a whole lot else to talk about right this minute...so, I'm going to go now.

Goodbye MNF

Ah, Monday Night Football came to a close on ABC last night following a good 35 year run. Of course, 75% of the games on Monday Night Football were absolute blowouts that people turned off by halftime and the games were so late that most people couldn't stay up to watch them anyway. But, it was still a good run. And, don't worry, MNF will continue next year at it's new home, ESPN.

A couple questions:

• Is anybody watching the NBA?
• Is anybody watching the NHL?
• Who else thinks the Bears are going to the Super Bowl?
• Did anyone watch the GMAC Bowl?
• Did anyone go shopping the day after Christmas?
• And, did anyone watch the Tsunami show on the History Channel last night? If you didn't, you missed a very interesting show.

WVU re-entered the AP Top 25 this week...and Kevin Pittsnogle was highlighted in Andy Katz ESPN.com column for his effort against Oklahoma. Enjoy the easy games against Cansius and South Florida because, after that, the real schedule begins. Villanova, UCLA, Cincy, UConn, Pitt, G'Town, Louisville and more...a killer schedule. And, don't forget the biggest of all...Marshall. haha...j/k.

I was watching Cold Pizza yesterday and they were listing the Top 10 bowl games...the Sugar Bowl didn't even make the list. You have to be kidding me! ESPN doesn't think the Sugar Bowl is even worthy of a Top Ten spot on it's stupid loser show Cold Pizza. This is why I hate ESPN.

So, anyway, New Year's is approaching and the Sugar Bowl is approaching and I haven't even throught much about either one yet...but, I guess that time is approaching too. Catch ya later...

2005 Drawing to a Close

Ah, the year is drawing to a close...and, well, it was an interesting year. Started out bad enough...West Virginia losing in yet another bowl. USC repeating as National Champions and New England winning the Super Bowl again. Not too enthused by those possibilities occuring yet again this year...please, stop the madness.

Of course, in good sports news, WVU's run into the Elite Eight; UNC's basketball championship, WVU's comeback win against Louisville and subsequent Big East title. And T.O. finally showed the world exactly who he is...again. Those were good. And, I guess on the indifferent scale would be Chicago's World Series Title and the Pistons winning in the NBA. But, we'll explore more of 2005 when it actually ends...in the meantime:

It's the one year anniversary of the tsunami disaster that struck Asia. If you wonder why I'm anti-United Nations, read the arcticle about where all the money went. There's something seriously wrong with that bureaucracy.

Looks like the Steelers are going to make the playoffs. I'm not sure who poked the defense but someone awoke the beast. I mean, a 41-0 smackdown of the hapless Browns is just the beginning. This could be a dangerous team in the playoffs and, luckily, they won't have a home playoff game to lose this year.

Lastly, sorry I didn't get ahold of anyone over the holidays...don't take it as a slight. I'm just evil that way. But, hope everyone had a great Christmas time and I look forward to New Years.

Christmas Eve...hmmm...

Well, I can't say Festivus was an overwhelming success at work. Oh, the food was good and I think most of the participants, maybe 10, had a good time. However, at least one person went away slightly offended. I'll explain in a minute...but, we did air some grievances...mostly comical though. Our feats of strength were constrained to Rock-Em, Sock-Em Robots and the occasional thumb-wrestling matchup (I failed at both). Then, it was back to work...and, unfortunately Friday was busier than it should have been.

As far as the offense...well, one of the participants didn't understand what Festivus was and hadn't seen Seinfeld. So, we found an explanation Flash video online that kind of explained it...jokingly of course. Unfortunately, it said that Festivus was devoid of any religious affiliation...so, she immediately jumped to the conclusion that it must be an Anti-Christmas; Anti-Christian holiday. And, well, that's what she took from it and, since I was the one who suggested the celebration, I must be anti-Christmas. Or at least I'm some PC guy who is trying to rid the nation of Christmas. Of course, nothing could be further from the truth but I'm pretty sure that's what she took from it. The only comment I heard was "I just don't get it." But, beyond that, it was a success...

Anyway, now I'm just preparing for the Christmas Eve festivities and the exchanging of gifts. I recently read an article that I can't find now about how it is easier to give than to receive. I would agree with that...I enjoy giving gifts. Receiving them is the more difficult part...I don't care what anyone says.

Other than that, not much going on. Merry Christmas to everyone if I don't update again before then...

How 'bout them 'Eers

The Mountaineers manhandled the #7 ranked Oklahoma Sooners in a neutral venue...if you consider neutral like 15 minutes from Oklahoma's regular court. By far the biggest win of the year for the Mountaineers and could propel them back into the Top 25. Early on, things didn't look good but when WVU switched the to 2-3 zone, it really hurt Oklahoma's inside game. And, the Mountaineers finally got back into doing some backdoor cuts which opened up the perimeter. The shooting was unbelievable, going 67+% from the field...by far their best shooting effort.

My bowl predictions aren't going as well as I had hoped...2-2 so far. And the hard picks aren't even up yet. I was impressed with Navy last night...what an awesome option team. Colorado State never had a chance.

Anyway, I've got to go...we're getting ready to start our Festivus celebrations here. The feats of strength have been replaced by Rock 'Em - Sock 'Em robots. The airing of grievance may, however, bring about real fighting.

The Yankees Strike Again!

The Yankees strike a dagger at the heart of Boston by stealing away Johnny Damon...which is very funny and entertaining...but I am definitely torn by this. I'm glad the Yankees are doing something but I don't think picking up Damon is the best move...mainly because I don't like the guy. I mean, he's a good player...I guess, but he's a self-admitted idiot. And, I would agree with that...he's an idiot. The only positive is that he'll have to get a haircut and he won't be allowed on Queer Eye anymore...I hope.

Beyond that, tomorrow is our first annual Festivus celebration here in the computer department. We have at least one person who is semi-offended by our Festivus celebration...thinking it is some non-denominational holiday and thinking we're trying to eliminate Christmas. That's not the case but, hey, if that's what they think, that makes it even funnier.

Ummmm...that's about it. Short update because I don't have time to write anymore right now. Maybe something later...

The Countdown Continues...

The countdown to what you might ask...well, several things. Christmas, 2006, the Nokia Sugar Bowl, etc., etc. So, whatever you want it to be a countdown towards, let it be that. But, Christmas is what I was talking about. As far as shopping goes, I am making one last attempt tomorrow...and that's it. So, if you're expecting and wanting a gift from me, you better let me know because this is it...and I mean it this time.

We had our Christmas luncheon at the office last Friday. So, this Friday we are having our Festivus luncheon complete with the metal pole. I'll try to get some pictures. I've been advertising it throughout the office and have gotten some mixed reactions. Some people love the idea...some think it is some anti-Christmas holiday. It's not...it's about fun. Some people are too serious too often...but, they're not invited to Festivus because Festivus is about joy and the airing of grievances and feats of strength. Additionally, Yes Festivus, No Bagels.

Poor Green Bay...I mean, I almost felt sorry for them. They are very bad. When you lose 48-3 to a team with no offense, you're very very bad. And, as much as I hate to say it, it's time for Brett Favre to leave. He's done a lot...he's a Hall of Famer...but, he's never going to see another winning season. And, it might not be his fault...the team is horrible and it's going to take a few years to rebuild and he's not going to make it that long. On the positive side, Green Bay's record is bad enough to put them in a position where they could still get Reggie Bush or Matt Leinart.

And, tonight begins the college football bowl season. The New Orleans Bowl, live from not New Orleans (Lafeyette, LA), will feature Southern Miss and Arkansas State...*yawn*. Like I said previously, I have Southern Miss winning easily. So, feel free to take a nap if you don't want to be bored to death.

That's all for now...and, I think Bobby Pruett retired. And, just at the right time because, last I checked, Marshall dropped their football program. Isn't that right? What? No? They're still playing? Really? Hmmmm, I thought that was the girl's volleyball team...my mistake.

Best Coach in America?

Props from Yahoo! for Coach Rod:

BEST COACH

Rich Rodriguez, West Virginia. Who's the most influential coach in America? It isn't Joe Paterno or Bobby Bowden, no matter what your grandpa tells you. It's Rodriguez. He's credited with popularizing running out of spread sets. Oh, and he wins a lot, too. His Mountaineers have claimed at least a share of the past three Big East titles. Next up: a date with Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, West Virginia's first BCS spot. Spread the word and run with it.

Well, It's Monday Again...

There were a few good football games this weekend. The Steelers won and look like they might get into the playoffs if they don't blow it down the stretch here...I'm not ready to put them in but they looked like contenders against the Vikings. They looked pretty good finally...not Super Bowl good, but playoff good. The Colts are no longer undefeated. Big deal...they're still my favorite for the Super Bowl. I wish the Colts would go undefeated so we wouldn't have to deal with the '72 Dolphins anymore. They actually had a press conference after the game...the '72 Dolphins had a press conference. Don Shula spoke at a press conference after the Colts lost along with some players. Man, talk about egos. I don't care that they went undefeated. I don't care they drink a bottle of champagne when the last team loses every season. Why is this a news story? Give me a break.

I tell you a team that looked nasty...Sunday night when the Bears dismantled the Falcons. Now, granted, Michael Vick isn't a very good quarterback at all, but the Bears defense is sick. They were everywhere. And some of thos hits...man, I now have my second favorite team this year and they are in Chicago. I definitely wouldn't want to see them on my schedule. If Grossman learns to play offense, Chicago is going to be a force in the NFC.

I can't even watch college basketball anymore because of Dick Vitale. I mean, he is so annoying that I can't even stand watching ESPN basketball because I'm afraid he'll appear at some point. I used to like to watch Maryland or, god-forbid, Duke...but, I can't because Vitale has ruined college basketball. I would rather listen to Lee Corso, John Madden and Beano Cooke sharing a booth over listening to Vitale. He is horrible. This guy did a good job summarizing my feelings about Dick Vitale...

I gave up on Christmas shopping on Saturday. I went up to South Hills and bought NOTHING. Yes, nothing. I walked around for like 2 hours and saw not one thing that I wanted to buy anyone. So, that's it. Christmas is cancelled. I am now celebrating Festivus. In case you don't know, here are the essentials of a Festivus celebration:

• The Festivus Pole. Just a bare aluminum pole with a high strength-to-weight ratio. They're very low maintenance.
• The Festivus Dinner. The Festivus dinner menu is flexible, but it should be filling non-holiday comfort food. (No duck or turkey or holiday meals).
• The Airing of Grievances: At the Festivus dinner, each participant tells friends and family all of the instances where they disappointed him or her that year.
• The Feats of Strength: The head of the family tests his or her strength against one participant of the head's choosing. Festivus is not considered over until the head of the family has been pinned to the ground. A participant is allowed to decline to attempt to pin the head of the family only if they have something better to do instead.

So, Happy Festivus!

It's Friday...

Thank goodness it's Friday. I'm ready for the weekend...it's been just either crazy busy or utterly boring here all week. Today is the computer department's Christmas luncheon...yippee. The gift exchange...well, I bought my recipient a demotivational calendar from despair.com. It's a pretty funny site.

Anyway, in other news, Bojo pointed this out to me and it is pretty funny...Princeton lost the lowest scoring game since the 3-point line was put in place. Princeton was able to put up a staggering 21 points. "Obviously, we just couldn't score," Princeton coach Joe Scott said. Well, I think that might be the understatement of the year. I could put Granny's church-league basketball team on the court against the Spurs and they would put up 21. Twenty-one points...how sad.

Lastly this morning, I ran into this on Everyday Should Be Saturday. It's an article about college mascots...I think it's pretty good. Here's the best part...

At their best, they (mascots) can channel the spirit of the assembled crowd into a single, ridiculously costumed avatar to behold, worship, fear, or if you're in the visitor's section, toss a beverage at. A superb case study in just how iconic a single, costumed individual can be to a college football program is the West Virginia Mountaineer.

The Mountaineer could have looked like something out of a Disney Davy Crockett movie, but WVU kept it real when they came up with the outfit and the casting. First, the Mountaineer has to be big-as in big enough to play for the team, or at least look that way from the stands. Burly is the word, here, complete with a full beard. He wears a buckskin suit and a raccoon cap, sure, but no Hollywood looking chamois or faux fur will do; the Mountaineer wears dark, unevenly colored, and oily cloth that looks like the tanned hide of an undetermined bit of roadkill, and the hat looks as if it will crawl bleeding off his head at any moment. The piece-de-resistance comes with the addition of a musket he totes around (note: not a rifle, but an antediluvian musket that fires with powder) and the frequent absence of shoes in warmer games.

The Mountaineer, more than any other mascot we know, represents the ideal role of accurately projecting the collective image of the fanbase onto a single palette. The Mountaineer doesn't do anything fancy. He doesn't flip, or lead namby-pamby cheers, or dance little jigs. He screams like a banshee and brandishes a firearm for the better part of four quarters, basking in the whiskey-infused roar of the Morgantown crowd and screaming back at them like a redneck Incredible Hulk. When the Mountaineers score, he fires his rifle in the air, and West Virginia fans go insane. The best tribute we can give the Mountaineer is this: he's our odds-on favorite in our own dream version of "Mascot Death Match," with or without the musket.

Christmas Shopping Will Never End

Well, I headed up to the world-famous Meadowbrook Mall following another exciting day at the office to attempt to get a little Christmas shopping done. After circling the parking lot for 10-15 minutes trying to find that close space, I finally gave up and parked approximately one mile from the entrance of the facility. Not too shabby if you ask me...

So, I'm trying to think of what I need to purchase for my friends and relatives when a scarf catches my eye in the Gap. I go in to check it out but decide the $19.50 price tag was more than I cared to pay for a scarf that I would more than likely never wear. Anyway, I leave the Gap and a young lady begins talking to me. She's obviously foreign (later I would learn from Holland) and I couldn't understand her. So, I approached closer to try to understand.

I finally was able to comprehend a "Come here" so, I did as she requested. The next thing I knew, she was asking for my hand. Now, I'm not saying this is a rare occurrence or anything, but I was taken aback. She grabbed my hand and, before I had time to object, was using some type of device on my fingernail. At this point I objected but it was too late. Apparently, she was buffing and polishing or something. I was quite embarassed by this point and was trying to plead my way out of this situation. She said "just a minute, just a minute". It was no use...I knew every guy walking by me at this point had to be making fun of me.

"Voila" she says..."look at your nail". Well, I did...it was (and is) quite polished. To prove that it wasn't some chemical, she applied fingernail polish remover...and, the shine didn't disappear. Amazing. Then, she wanted to apply some hand lotion to which I declined. So, she had me smell four different types of lotion. I told her I thought they all stunk but I don't think she was paying attention to me by this time. She was too busy seeing dollar signs. She gave me some line about the price...would be $49.99 plus shipping if I ordered from QVC or something...just $34.99 from her. But she would knock $10.00 off for me. Just $24.99 and she was ringing me up on the register as she explained that.

I don't know why but next thing I knew I was pulling out my debit card and paying for this nail polishing kit and hand lotion. I have no idea who is getting it but someone is...I don't want it. I was so befuddled by the entire situation that I forgot why I was at the mall. I walked aimlessly for a few minute...trying to comprehend what happened and looking at the "All Sales Final" recent she had provided. I can't even return the crap. I don't think it's safe for me to go shopping...the only other thing I was able to purchase at the mall was a new cellphone from Sprint. And, believe it or not, it went much the same way as the lotion...I said "So, how much for me to get a new phone" and, before I could gather my thoughts, I was paying for a new phone.

I'm guessing that the store workers love to see me coming...I believe the correct term would be sucker. This is why I'm going to do all my shopping online from this point forward. My shopping trips have been, and probably will remain, absolute disasters. But, on the bright side, I have one really shiny fingernail and a new phone. So, if I don't have your number, send it to me so I can input. In the meantime, I'm going to go cry somewhere.

Bowl Predictions - Pt. 5

Of course, you have to save the best bowls for last and that mean, naturally, the BCS Bowls. This might just be the best BCS bowl lineup ever...all the games are good even if I don't like some of the teams in them. So, here goes...

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl - Notre Dame (9-2) vs. Ohio State (9-2) - Jan. 2nd @ 4:30 p.m.
Okay, I can't get beyond the fact I don't believe Notre Dame belongs in the BCS. They lost to Michigan State and USC and barely beat Stanford. Most of the teams they beat were not bowl eligible, so I don't think they deserved the hype they received. But, they're here and that's that. Anyway, this is a put-up or shut-up game for the Irish. Ohio State is, by far, the best defense they have played. Can Brady Quinn handle the pressure? Ohio State also has a good offense...too much for the Irish to handle. Ohio State 38 - Notre Dame 24

Nokia Sugar Bowl - West Virginia (10-1) vs. Georgia (10-2) - Jan. 2nd @ 8:30 p.m.
There's just so much to say but I don't have time to do it all now. Of course, as this approaches, there will be more. Is Slaton and White ready for the big time yet? Can the WVU defense pressure Shockley? This is a huge game, not just for this year but for the future of both programs. Of course, it's hard to predict because of the huge emotional attachment to the game. I really believe that WVU can win this game though...and, I'm saying they will. West Virginia 24 - Georgia 20

FedEx Orange Bowl - Penn State (10-1) vs. Florida State (8-4) - Jan. 3rd @ 8:00 p.m.
Oh geesh...how about the Orange Bowl presented by Metamucil. Estimated combined age of these two coaches? 342? I really think that's close. But, seriously, I like JoePa and I think Florida State doesn't belong in the BCS. They lost 4 games. I can't believe people aren't making a big deal out of that. A 4-loss team does not belong in the BCS...or, if they do, then quit making a big deal out of the Big East being there. Geesh. Anyway, Michael Robinson will have a good day and the Seminoles will show why they lost 4 games this year. Penn State 31 - Florida State 20

The Rose Bowl Game Presented by CitiBank - USC (12-0) vs. Texas (12-0) - Jan. 4th @ 8:00 p.m.
Ah, the Grandaddy of Them All...the national title game. The Golden USC Trojans against Mac Brown's Texas Longhorns. This game comes down to Reggie Bush v. Vince Young. For as much whining as Young did about not getting the Heisman, he should come out fired up and looking to prove something against the hapless Trojan defense. The Longhorns will be able to score. The real question is whether Brown can come up with a scheme to keep Bush and Leinart in check for a few drives. A high scoring affair and a game for the ages. Texas 45 - USC 40

Bowl Predictions - Pt. 4

We're finally closing in on the end of this bowl mess. This will take us through 24 bowls, leaving only the BCS bowls to predict this afternoon. Good luck...

AutoZone Liberty Bowl - Tulsa (8-4) vs. Fresno State (8-4) - Dec. 31st
Fresno State finished 2005 by losing 3 games in a row. Not they way a school that wants respect wants to finish an otherwise good season. Tulsa is quickly becoming the next mid-major darling in college football, especially with their upset win over UCF. I expect Tulsa to continue the upsetting and down Fresno. Tulsa 31 - Fresno St. 28

EV1.net Houston Bowl - TCU (10-1) vs. Iowa State (7-4) - Dec. 31st
Iowa State chocked AGAIN and didn't get to play for the Big 12 Title. They'll be looking for a little revenge...and respect. TCU is coming off a memorable year and probably deserve a higher profile bowl than the EV1.net Bowl. TCU is on a 9-game winning streak and is looking to make it 10. TCU 24 - Iowa State 17

AT&T Cotton Bowl - Texas Tech (9-2) vs. Alabama (9-2) - Jan. 2nd
Do offenses get any more exciting than Texas Tech? Do defenses get any more stubborn than Alabama? Where would Alabama be without their defense? Not in a bowl game. And, Tech with offense? Ditto. This is the ying vs. yang battle of the year. Tech wants respect and Alabama wants to prove that it belonged in the national debate before losing its last two games. I don't think Alabama's offense can get off the mat and compete in this one. Texas Tech 24 - Alabama 12

Outback Bowl - Iowa (7-4) vs. Florida (8-3) - Jan. 2nd
Hey, a rematch of the 2004 Outback Bowl in which Iowa pounded Florida 37-17. A guy by the name of Zook was coaching the Gators then. Now, a guy named Urban coaches them and, if he doesn't want to be Zooked, he'll figure out a way to win the bowl games. Chris Leak finally breaks out in a big game. Florida 27 - Iowa 20

Toyota Gator Bowl - Louisville (9-2) vs. Virginia Tech (10-2) - Jan. 2nd
Another huge Big East - ACC matchup. Higher stakes in this one though. If the Big East wants respect, this is the kind of game they must win. Louisville underachieved and Tech was exposed in their game against Florida State. Without QB Brian Brohm, things just got tougher for the Cardinals. But, I'll argue that the Hokies don't have a quarterback either. This game comes down to the playcalling by the goiter...and it's not good this time. Louisville 34 - Virginia Tech 23

Capital One Bowl - Wisconsin (9-3) vs. Auburn (9-2) - Jan. 2nd
Auburn is really good and will be a national title contender in 2006. Wisconsin is losing their coach and would like to send him off with a big win. Expect a lot of rushing yards in this one. Unfortunately for Barry Alvarez, his teams don't fair well against the SEC. War Eagle! Auburn 23 - Wisconsin 20

Bowl Predictions - Pt. 3

Hey Hey Hey...It's a Bonus Kinda Day. You get bowl predictions Part 2 & 3 on the same day. Lucky you...be sure to read part 2 below so that you know what's happening in all the bowls. I figure Part 4 & 5 will be posted tomorrow...which will give you MY predictions on all 28 bowl games. You are some lucky people out there...

Pacific Life Holiday Bowl - Oregon (10-1) vs. Oklahoma (7-4) - Dec. 30th
Poor Oregon...probably more deserving of a BCS bowl than overrated Notre Dame. Not only do they get snubbed from the BCS, they fall all the way to the Holiday Bowl where they'll face an underachieving Oklahoma team. The Ducks will be playing with a chip on their shoulder but if Adrian Peterson is healthy, he can run almost as well as Reggie Bush. Sorry Duck fans, but Oklahoma is going to expose you as the not-quite-ready for primetime team. Oklahoma 41 - Oregon 23

Gaylord Hotels City Bowl Music - Minnesota (7-4) vs. Virginia (6-5) - Dec. 30th
Virginia's linebackers are going to be tested as they try to snuff out the 2nd leading rushing attack in the nation. Minnesota has won their last three bowl games and the Wahoos still haven't lived up to the hype they received a few years back. A lot of rushing in this game should make it a quick one...and maybe an entertaining one. Minnesota 23 - Virginia 20

Vitalis Sun Bowl - Northwestern (7-4) vs. UCLA (9-2) - Dec. 30th
Can you say offense? UCLA has the 7th highest scoring offense in the country while Northwestern has the 8th highest offensive output in the nation. This is a great Pac 10 - Big Ten matchup. UCLA 45 - Northerwestern 42

Independence Bowl - South Carolina (7-4) vs. Missouri (6-5) - Dec. 30th
The Ol' Ball Coach is back and has the 'Cocks bowling against Brad Smith and Missouri. Don't expect either team to march up and down the field and put points on the board...just not the style of these teams. Missouri needs this win to help prop up the miserable Big 12. But, Spurrier has too many tricks up his sleeve. South Carolina 24 - Missouri 13

Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl - Miami (9-2) vs. LSU (10-2) - Dec. 30th
Oh, what might have been. Both of these teams could have easily found themselves in the BCS. But, both suffer from inconsistent offenses...so, go with the team with the best defense. And that's Miami. Miami is 3rd in the nation in total defense and 2nd in scoring defense. If DeMarcus Russell isn't 100% for the Tigers, Miami rolls. Miami 17 - LSU 7

Meineke Car Care Bowl - South Florida (6-5) vs. NC State (6-5) - Dec. 31st
Let's be honest, this game is more about the Big East vs. the ACC than about USF and NCSt. Chuck Amato needs this game to secure his spot at NC State...they've been underachieiving for a few years now. Jim Leavitt needs the win to prove the season wasn't a fluke and that the Bulls are going to be a force in the Big East for several years to come. Expect good defensive play but USF's speed will make one or two big plays that makes the difference in the game. USF 21 - NC State 13

Bowl Predictions - Pt. 2

First up: Yes, I know I was wrong about the Steelers on Sunday. I was hoping everyone would forget...thanks Evan. The Bus somehow got his 100 year old legs working again and led Pittsburgh to victory. Don't count on it continuing though. I hope the Steelers win out and make the playoffs, but I just don't see it happening...Sorry.

Ah, the bowl game predictions continue today...and there are some pretty good bowls here.

Motor City Bowl - Memphis (6-5) vs. Akron (7-5) - Dec. 26th
Despite 5 losses, Akron was still able to grab the MAC Championship. Let's be honest, the MAC has had a dismal season and a loss to the Conference USA here would really hurt their national credibility. This is the final game for Memphis RB DeAngelo Williams who, if he had been at a more prestigious school, would have had some Heisman hype this season. I think he makes the difference and Memphis wins. Memphis 27 - Akron 20

Champs Sports Bowl - Clemson (7-4) vs. Colorado (7-5) - Dec. 27th
Colorado has lost the last two games by a combined 100-6. They also managed to lose their coach last week...so, I expect Colorado to lose the Champs Sports Bowl as well. Clemson plays some exciting games...7 have been decided by a touchdown or less so don't expect a blowout. Clemson 17 - Colorado 14

Insight Bowl - Arizona State (6-5) vs. Rutgers (7-4) - Dec. 27th
Oh, Rutgers...my dear friends the Scarlet Knight of Rutgers. Where have you been for so long? Last bowl game - 1978 - Garden State Bowl - Opponent: Arizona State - Result: Loss 34-18. Can they turn it around? YES! Of course, they'll have to overcome the home advantage for the Sun Devils but I believe they can do it. Rutgers avenges their 1978 loss by a complete reversal of that score. Rutger 34 - Arizona State 18

MPC Computers Bowl - Boise State (9-3) vs. Boston College (8-3) - Dec. 28th
I like this bowl. Blue turf at Boise State...an underrated Boston College team. A 4:30 p.m. kickoff on a Wednesday afternoon. Yeah, I don't get that part either...but, whatever. I like this matchup. BC has won 5 straight bowl...Boise State doesn't lose at home. This is a big game for the WAC...respect on the line for BC. I think the blue turf makes the difference. Boise State 31 - Boston College 27

MasterCard Alamo Bowl - Michigan (7-4) vs. Nebraska (7-4) - Dec. 28th
Well, the names sound big...two of the more storied programs in college football. But neither had a season to brag about...Michigan got lucky in a win over Penn State but, otherwise, was unspectacular. Nebraska has been struggling but may have finally found their passing game. Bill Callahan needs this victory to show the Husker program is heading in the right direction or he may be looking for other employment. If Michigan plays the way they can, it should win easily. Michigan 32 - Nebraska 17

Emerald Bowl - Georgia Tech (7-4) vs. Utah (6-5) - Dec. 29th
The Utes are probably a year away from being really good again...Georgia Tech has been kinda hot and cold. The spread offense that Utah runs could give the Yellow Jackets a headache but it's not enough to overcome the lack of athleticm that has doomed Utah all season. Georgia Tech 24 - Utah 13

Bowl Predictions - Pt. 1

I've had a couple inquiries as to when I was going to post my bowl game predictions...so, I figured this is a good time to do so considering there are 28 bowl games this year and they begin on December 20th. Now, some of these bowls are going to be awesome...some are going to be not so awesome. I won't hold you up any longer because I know you're waiting to call your bookie with these guarantees. (note: these are definitely not guarantees...but, if you win, you owe me half...if you lose, betting is illegal and it serves you right).

New Orleans Bowl - Southern Miss (6-5) vs. Arkansas State (6-5) - Dec. 20th
Well, ummmm...yeah, what a bowl game this will be. The only thing this bowl has going for it is that it is the first bowl game of the season and we've been without college football for like 17 days. Southern Miss should easily dispose of the Indians. Southern Miss 35 - Ark St. 17

GMAC Bowl - UTEP (8-3) vs. Toledo (8-3) - Dec. 21st
Another meaningless bowl game really...two teams that were really disappointing in their mid-major conferences. UTEP's offense should be pretty fun to watch...and Toledo could put up some points of their own. Probably a flip to and away type of game...with UTEP pulling away in the second half. UTEP 45 - Toledo 31

Pioneer PureVision Las Vegas Bowl - BYU (6-5) vs. California (7-4) - Dec. 22nd
Poor BYU...all those mormons running around Las Vegas. Seriously though, these are two pretty good offenses...BYU is 8th in the country in total offense, Cal is 10th in rushing offense. I'm thinking that California is probably a better team but BYU pulls the Vegas inspired upset. BYU 40 - California 31

San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl - Colorado State (6-5) vs. Navy (7-4) - Dec. 22nd
What a great bowl name...Poinsettia Bowl...sponsored by the San Diego County Credit Union. Yeah, and the teams involved really make this a winner. Add the fact that it's a 10:30 p.m. kickoff and you have no one watching. The Rams like to pass while Navy has the number one rushing attack in the country. If you like the option, you need to watch Navy. Navy 26 - Colorado State 14

Fort Worth Bowl - Kansas (6-5) vs. Houston (6-5) Dec. 23rd
Ummmm...Kansas is 19th in the nation in total defense, Houston is 14th in total offense. Does that make this game interesting? Probably not. This is really a game for Conf-USA to try to win a game over a BCS conference...but, I don't think it's going to happen. Rock, Chalk, Jayhawk. Kansas 20 - Houston 10

Sheraton Hawaii Bowl - Nevada (8-3) vs. UCF (8-4) - Dec. 24th Talk about a great coaching job...George O'Leary took a winless team all the way to the Conference USA Championship game the next year. O'Leary is definitely the story of this game but it is also UCF's first bowl game ever. Nevada beat Fresno State to grab a share of the WAC at the end of the season...this should be a pretty good game. Plus, they're in Hawaii. Nevada 28 - UCF 17

Dukes of Hazzard - UNRATED!!!

First up: I was eating lunch/dinner at Keglers on Saturday watching 3 different sporting events on their TVs. Probably every 15 minutes or so I was alerted to the fact the Dukes of Hazzard DVD commercial was airing by one of my friends. Of course, this is the commercial of Jessica Simpson in her "Daisy Duke" shorts doing a little dancing and the whole commercial revolves around the fact that this version is "UNRATED!!!". Not too much Bo...not too much Luke...no discussion of storylines or that this is a great movie...just girls dancing and the fact mentioned it is UNRATED!!! Since then, I notice this commercial comes on a lot, especially during sporting events or shows that males tend to watch. I'm not complaining...but I am complaining a little...here's why:

Obviously this commercial is geared towards guys. I mean, most commercials during sporting events are. The "beer run", the "gaming", the "buy this for your girlfriend" commercials, meant for guys. That's fine. And the DVD commercials are fine...but, since when do movies have to be softcore pornography for people to buy them. This didn't start with Dukes...American Pie, UNRATED!!!, Van Wilder, UNRATED!!!, Harold & Kumar, UNRATED!!! These DVDs have had extra material inserted (read nudity) to enhance the viewing experience. Enhance? I mean, there's nothing wrong with that I guess...but is it necessary? Maybe I'm wrong but it just kinda seems stupid to me. Movies used to be about the storyline and originality and, well, they were just good. Not anymore...they have to be UNRATED!!! to sell DVDs. How long can it be before we see Lord of the Rings - UNRATED!!! With the voiceover telling us that you never know what happens when Frodo visits the elves until you buy the unrated version...

Now, on to the sports predictions for Sunday (Week 14) -- just the games I want:

New England @ Buffalo - Man, it's gonna be cold there. But, unfortunately, the Bills are really bad and New England should be able to beat them...even though New England is getting bad. N.E. 28 - Buffalo 17

St. Louis @ Minnesota - The Love Boat will be waiting to take the Rams away after this game...I don't know how Tice did it but the Vikings are on a roll...give them another win here. St. Louis 14 - Minnesota 17

Cleveland @ Cincinatti - I hate to say it but Cincinatti is going to win the AFC North and Cleveland has no power to try to stop them. Look for an awesome Chad Johnson touchdown celebration around mid-second quarter. Cleveland 16 - Cincinntti 31

NY Giants @ Philidelphia - HAHAHAHA...the Eagles are horrible now. Giants 24 - Phili 3

Additionally, these teams win: Colts, Raiders, Bucs, Titans, Seahawks, Redskins, Charges, Broncos, Cowboys, Lions...

And, last up: Chicago @ Pittsburgh - Chicago has an awesome defense but no offense. Pittsburgh has an offense sometimes and a shaky defense. Pittsburgh hasn't been able to run the ball lately and Ben has been inconsistent (due to injury, of course). I think the Bears defense will stifle the running game and will probably sack Big Ben about 20 times by halftime. Low scoring game...with an interception by the Bears making the difference...Bears 12 - Pittsburgh 7. Sorry...no playoffs in Pittsburgh.

A Rare Saturday Update...

First up: Happy 21st Birthday to my buddy Andrew. Seems like he should have turned 21 awhile back...but, hey, I guess it's just now happening. Unfortunately for him, Kentucky doesn't have any offense and fell to Indiana this evening. I'm sure he'll figure out a way to get past that though...

Duke looks awfully good. They completely anhilated an overmatched Texas team. J.J. Redick, as much as I despise him, played like a man on a mission. Unstoppable. Duke will lose this season...but I just don't know to who. If they play all their games like they played Texas though, they could go undefeated...and it really pains me to say that. Dick Vitale is very excited somewhere. I'll close with a Go UNC!

WVU improved to 6-3 with a win over the Duquesne. No real need to comment on that. Scottie Pippen's number was retired by Chicago last night. I never liked Scottie and I still don't like Scottie. Tonight they will be giving the Heisman Trophy to Reggie Bush...Vince Young will whine about it. Matt Leinart will be calling Jessica Simpson...

Richard Pryor passed away today. I can't believe the guy was still alive...he was one of those celebrities that you were sured died about 10 years ago but then you would see him somewhere and be like, whoa, I thought he was dead. Well....I guess you won't be saying that anymore. Very cutting edge comedian who was huge in the late '70s, early '80s.

Last Up: Christmas shopping. I really made a concerted effort today to get started. What did I get? Rock salt to melt the ice outside my house. Two gift cards for birthdays. A book at Barnes & Noble because the author was there signing and no one talked to her and I felt bad for her so I started a conversation and bought her book out of guilt. And I returned a pair of pants I bought like a month ago. What a productive shopping day...

Shoot to Kill

The big news seems to be that this airline air marshall shot a passenger who stated he had a bomb and turned to run from the air marshall. The marshall, in a split second decision, shot and killed the passenger. And, of course, the passenger did not actually have a bomb. So, this morning there's a lot of second-guessing going on about whether the marshall should have shot this guy. There's no question in my mind...yes, shoot the guy. Why take a chance? What kind of idiot says they have a bomb on an airplane these days...and, what if he was telling the truth. That moment of deciding what to do could make the difference between him detonating the device and being stopped. If I were on the plane, I would be very grateful to that air marshall for doing his job.

Bush's poll numbers are beginning to rebound. Reason number one...good economy. The economy is definitely heading in a positive direction. And, secondly, the Dems keep shooting themselves in the foot with their plan, no-plan, indecisive stance on Iraq.

Dave Stern is cracking down on the one-inch short roll in the NBA. I guess players shorts are supposed to be one inch above the knee and he's fining the teams if players don't meet those standards. Not that anyone cares...I mean, Iverson wears his so low that I can't believe he doesn't trip over them. Of course the players' union is whining over the rule just like they did over the dress code...does anyone even care anymore though? The only reason I watch any NBA basketball is to watch the Lakers lose...that's the only thing I like.

Lastly, the trial next door has become somewhat self-sufficient so I haven't had to spend 17 hours a day at work. Hopefully it wraps up tomorrow and I don't have to work this weekend. And, even if it doesn't wrap up, I don't plan to work this weekend...so, if somethings happening, drop me a line.

Oh, and we may get like a foot of snow or something depending on who you talk to...if we get 7+ inches of snow, I'm staying home tomorrow and that's that.

You Know What?

You know what I love? I love receiving spam messages in my AOL Instant Messenger. I like leaving my away message on and coming back and having like 372 messages that I need to wade through...just to find out that none of them are from ligitimate people. Now, I could set it up to where only people on my buddy list could IM me...but, then I'm excluding potential future friends who happen to find me but I don't know them. That's not a solution...

What else do I love today? Cold weather. Snow. Long work hours. Houston Nutt who failed to vote for West Virginia in the final coaches poll. Pittsburgh not making the playoffs. Christmas shopping. Al-Zawahri telling terrorists to strike oil plants. Holiday Trees instead of Christmas Trees. Toxic spills in China and pollution in Tehran. And Dan Murtha...I love him.

Anyway, my site for you all to visit today: Deadspin - Sports without discretion. I particularly like their coverage of Dennis Rodman's every move. Oh, and of Michael Irvin. How can ESPN not fire this guy? He's already been caught with drugs once...I mean, does anyone believe the paraphenalia that was found wasn't his? It was...he's a Dallas Cowboy.

Anyway, that's it for this morning...more later...or not.

Nothing Like A Trial...

Nothing gets everyone's blood pumping around here like a knockdown, no surrender trial around here. I have been at my desk for an estimated 15 minutes the last two days...but, I will find some time now to update...since, well, I haven't for like a whole two days.

Ummm...Cincinnati defeated Pittsburgh. Now, it seems likely that Pittsburgh could miss the playoffs entirely. That kinda sucks, doesn't it? I thought they were supposed to be good...but, hey, it could be worse...they could be Philidelphia. Man, are they bad. I mean, maybe they're just unlucky. McNabb is hurt...they can't run the ball...T.O. Whatever it is, they look really bad. So, teams that I am supporting unless the Steelers can turn it around:

1. Colts. 16-0. That would be cool...I like the Colts. Peyton Manning could be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time).

2. Giants. Hey, why not? I'm happy they improved. Eli v. Peyton for the championship. It might happen. And, if not, at least they can't kick Eli around anymore. So what, he didn't want to be a Charger. I wouldn't want to be either.

3. Vikings. Okay...weird choice. But, look at what they've been through. Moss is gone. The Whizzinator scandal. And the ticket scalping by Tice. The Love Boat. I mean, it just goes on and on. And, what does the media like better than tearing someone down just to build them up. Tice for Coach of the Year.

4. Bears. I mean, with a coach named Lovie, how can you go wrong?

5. Anyone else but the Patriots.

In other news:

King Kong is coming out. I hear it's brilliant. I don't know...it doesn't do much for me. I know the story...Big Ape, small lady...big planes and giant building. Ape falls...woman cries. The end. Not on my list of must-sees.

Other than that, not much else...might try to update again tonight but not sure about that. Give me a call if you need more information...

Where to Begin...

Well, it's been busy at work...preparing for a trial that goes Monday so I haven't had a lot of time to update...but, it's been some busy sports time and I won't be able to get to it all...like Pittsburg losing to Cincinatti...I'll save that for tomorrow. I guess I'll start with WVU...

West Virginia sealed the deal against USF last weekend...getting their first 10 win season since 1993. It's a lot better going in with a win than it is a loss...that's for sure. Had WVU lost, we'd have heard how USF could have gone with a win over UConn for the next three weeks. I guarantee it. So, WVU is going to the Sugar Bowl to face Georgia and Shockley. I'm not sure yet...I think we have a shot against them. Georgia has a tough defense...there will be a lot more on that matchup as it approaches.

Texas will face USC in the Championship game. No surprise there. Did Texas really need to beat Colorado 70-3? Was that really necessary? I don't think it was. Ohio State vs. Notre Dame in the Fiesta. That should be one heck of a game...but, I really hate Notre Dame and I think it's unfortunate that Oregon kinda got screwed. Oregon was higher in the BCS standings but still got left out...not sure about that.

My favorite game though has to be Florida State vs. Penn State. Bobby Bowden, approximate age: 135; Joe Paterno, approximate age: 146. Nothing like those young, spry coaches. But, the real reason I like this is that Florida State is 8-4 coming into the game. 4 LOSSES! Can you imagine if the Big East sent a team to the BCS with FOUR LOSSES?!? But, instead of knocking the ACC for sending a team with 4 losses, the sports media is talking about how Bobby righted the ship. Please...they looked bad in the game against Virginia Tech. It's just that Virginia Tech looked worse. I think Vick had like 3 good games...unfortunately one of them was against WVU. He really is like Michael Vick...really bad.

Other sports...WVU barely beat the Bonnies...and then really beat up on some Div III school. Good job guys!!! Way to go!!! UNC almost pulled the upset on Illinois and then did beat Kentucky at Rupp Arena. Ah, life is sweeeettt. UNC is going to be awesome next year and the year after...I think they're still too young this year to make a serious run at an ACC title.

Last up today, the Fairmont Christmas parade. Oh, what a spectacle it was. I saw a couple decently decorated float-like things. They had lights...but, unfortunately, the parade was in the daylight. There were a lot of fire trucks and ambulances I guess. The sad thing about the parade was that I think there were more people who were in the parade than actually watched it. That's a weird thing. Also weird were the amount of vehicles that had no decoration or anything to do with Christmas...just cars or trucks throwing a candy. I mean, put some garlan on that mirror or something...seriously.

Update

Still not feeling great...taking lots and lots of cold medication, headache stuff, ummm...just whatever might give some relief. Busy at work because we're trying to get ready for a trial next week...I've had over 40 hours of video to prepare for presentation...that's a lot of work.

So, I haven't been on much...and I haven't had time to think about a post. WVU finally broke the losing streak last night...3-3 now. Good. Duke sucks. UNC lost to Illinois but I liked what I saw from the young Tarheels.

It's snowing outside...but I don't think it will be the blizzard we had before...just a dusting. Maybe. Ummm...I think that's about it. Drop me a line or something...

ESPN Sucks

Today's update will be short:

52 Reasons Why ESPN/ABC/DISNEY SUCKS

I used to love ESPN and SportsCenter but more and more I've grown to really dislike it...especially their bias towards games they cover and there unwillingness to cover games they don't. When they started, they covered all sports...now they just cover those that make them money...and, when news is slow, they make their own news...see #19. I still watch a lot of ESPN, but more and more I wish there were an alternative.

Oh My Aching Head...

I hate the weather...it's 20 degrees, it's 50 degrees, it's 70 degress, it's 30 degrees...it's killing me. I don't know if it's a cold, flu, sinus issue...I have no idea...but I do know I'm not feeling well. Sore throat, headache, congestion and coughing. What a foursome that is! I took some Tylenol Cold with Acetaminophen and that, at least, has helped the sore throat a bit. Not as irritating as it was pre-medication.

Anyway, I guess I'm debating on whether trying to make an attempt to go to the Sugar Bowl this year or not. There are positives...there are negatives. So, here is a quick pro/con list of going to the Sugar Bowl (assuming WVU is there).

Pros:

• Atlanta should be warmer than West Virginia
• Spending New Year's in Atlanta could be a lot of fun
• I believe West Virginia can actually beat LSU
• A lot of WVU fans attending the bowl makes the entire Big East look better
• Get out of town

Cons:

• $$$
• Have to take a day off work (Jan. 3rd)
• Travel to/from Atlanta
• WVU sucks in bowl games

So, there are just a few reasons to go/not to go. I think it may come down to the $$$ at the end of it all...holidays are before us and I hate spending money on a stupid football game. But, on the other hand, I've been known to blow money on worse things.

I started Christmas shopping last night...online. I anticipate that 75% of all my Christmas shopping will be done online. I just hope that I can keep the credit cards at a reasonable level...it's easy to charge things...harder to pay those charge bills. I am probably 15% done with my shopping.

That's all I can think of at the moment...have a good one.

Why Sports Saturday was Good...and Bad

Well, the good news is that South Florida lost which assures West Virginia their first BCS berth. And don't buy into these headlines that say USF "handed" or "gave" WVU the Big East title. WVU earned the title...they use that phrase to try to diminish the Mountaineer accomplishment. But, anyway, I'll talk more on that later this week I'm sure. But, USF losing was also bad for the Big East and bad for WVU. The loss makes the Dec. 3rd matchup between WVU and USF a non-event as far as college football is concerned. Win or lose, it doesn't make a whole lot of difference to the bowl landscape. WVU will be in the Sugar Bowl most likely...and USF will probably be in the Car Bowl. No television is likely for the Dec. 3rd game...and I doubt you'll see many highlights.

Had USF won, it sets up a de facto Big East title game...which would have at least drawn some attention...and probably made its way onto TV somewhere. It would have been something to talk about anyway...but, along the same lines, that could backfire and USF could have ended up in the BCS which would be a huge embarrassment for the Big East. The reason the sports media kept talking up USF chances of winning the Big East was to embarrass the Big East. Nevermind the fact that a 7-4 Florida State could still win the ACC. And nevermind that a 7-4 Colorado could win the Big 12. What would happen then? No one wants to talk bad about those conferences so I doubt you'll hear anything about those possible scenarios...

I hate Notre Dame but I'm glad they came back to beat Stanford. As much as I would have loved to see them lose, it would have hurt the Big East. ND would have fallen to the Gator Bowl, which pushes Louisville to the Insight, Rutgers to the Car Care and leaves USF at home. I just hope Oregon...or Penn State, or Ohio State...or whoever they play just crushes them. I still don't think Notre Dame is all that great...besides the close loss to USC, they haven't done much except beat a mediocre Michigan team...only beat 3 teams with winning records. Both Ohio State and Oregon deserve the BCS bowl more than Notre Dame. Of course, WVU has only beaten two teams so far with winning records but we've only lost once...so there.

I really enjoyed watching Florida State lose their third game in a row and fourth game this season. And what makes it better is they won their division in the ACC and will play for the ACC title against Virginia Tech. I am hoping so much they beat Virginia Tech and go to the BCS for the ACC. That would just make my year so much brighter.

Georgia really struggled with Georgia Tech today. LSU struggled with Arkansas yesterday. These two teams will meet up for the SEC title and will most likely be our opponent in the Sugar Bowl. I hate to say it but I believe we can match up against either one of them...but, if I had a choice, I'd rather take on LSU.

Up last: Mountaineer basketball. 3 losses in a row...2-3 now on the season. This is what I was afraid of. They have zero inside presence...we can hit some 3's but we need to be able to get some easy shots once in a while. The inside cuts against Texas were great...I didn't see that against LSU. Luckily, we hit an easy stretch coming up...Beilein better find a way to score some layups or something...relying solely on the three point shot isn't going to make it. The losses should drop us out of the top-25...maybe that will remove some of the pressure.

Recruiting jabs...

This stuff is just too good not to comment on...apparently Dave Wannstedt pushed the buttons of Rich Rodriguez...earlier this week, our favorite Pitt coach had this to say:

“West Virginia comes up here and recruits Pennsylvania,” he said. “We know that – they’ve always have. In my opinion, we don’t have competition here. We don’t have much – Penn State, and every once in a while Notre Dame or somebody. But there shouldn’t be and there won’t be much other competition. The best players are going to come to Pitt.”

Now, if you can't follow that, let me translate: If given the choice between West Virginia and Pitt, players come to Pitt. Why would anyone want to go to West Virginia?

And, in case that didn't make it clear enough, a newspaper in Pittsburgh was sure to make mention that none of the West Virginia players from Western Pa. were offerred a scholarship from Pitt. Translation: West Virginia players aren't good enough to play for Pitt.

That, of course, was fodder for West Virginia. But, Rod was classy and didn't say much about it leading up to the game...not in public anyway. I'm sure there was plenty of discussion about those comments in the lockerroom though. Following the game, and the 45-13 whipdown, here's what Coach Rod had to say about recruiting against Pitt...and these are great:

“This may help us in recruiting a little bit,” Rodriguez offered. “We have a hard time supposedly recruiting in certain areas of Pennsylvania. It will give some of our coaches some extra motivation.” “Our guys from up there who weren’t recruited at all by Pitt were excited to play,” he said. “For us when you go to bowls and have success it makes it more difficult recruiting in some respects because you’re practicing for bowls and all that,” said the coach. “I hope that recruits understand that, hey, we want to spend as much time as we can with you but we’ve got to get ready for a bowl game where other teams don’t have to worry about that.”

Absolutely awesome. Translation: While you're sitting at home trying to recruit the "best players" at Pitt, we'll be playing in a probably BCS bowl. And, that group of players that weren't "good" enough to play at Pitt, well, they just whipped your butts.

Don't think that Wannstedt erred with his remarks about Pitt getting the best players...this goes way back to when Pittsburgh referred to West Virginia's football teams as "Western Pennsylvania trash". But the only trash I saw at Mountaineer Field last night wore god-awful "gold" helmets. And that trash won't be taken out again before the next football season rolls around.

Baby, It's Cold Outside...

Wow...could they have found a more chilling night for the WVU/Pitt game? Has Ed Pastilong ever heard of a dome? Geesh, it was cold out there...but, the -7 wind chill couldn't stop WVU from running all over the Panthers for 60 minutes. It was amazing...the Mountaineers lined up and said "stop us" and the Panthers fell over themselves trying to. It was impressive...I would have never believe you could for 451 yards against a team knowing you're going to run the ball. Anyway, a quick recap of the game:

I think I wore about 4 layers of clothing...including gloves, hat, scarf...etc. But it was still cold...luckily, the family behind us brought an extra blanket and that helped for the legs. Besides my toes freezing off, I stayed pretty comfortable. Every once in a while the wind would whip around there causing a little discomfort but, other than that, it was horrendous. But, I think it might be the coldest game I can remember...or it's very very close.

The fans were excellent...for 17-degree/-7 degree wind chill weather, I'm amazed that 53,000 showed up. That might be a little high but there were at least 50,000 there. And, they tried to make noise...it's hard to get real animated when you're freezing. You can tell it's cold when everything the band plays is much slower than you're used to. I think the crowd did cause a couple timeouts from Palko that he wouldn't have called otherwise. West Virginia fans are some of the best in football and last night proved it...

Pitt wanted to come out and get into a slugging fest...literally. There were a lot of extra shoves and talking following plays in an attempt to get the Mountaineer players to bite and lose composure. For the most part, they didn't...and that shows good coaching. Line up...do your job...trash talk later. Good deal. And, speaking of trash talk, the "Eat Shitake Mushrooms Pitt" chant really needs to go...I understand the sentiment but it's pretty crude and is too juvenile for WVU fans. It shows a real lack of class...leave that to the Pitt fans to cuss and carryon...let's be adults and show that WVU can win and be classy and be a bigtime program. I don't think those type of cheers are going on at the Texas' and USC's of college football.

And, some things to watch -- Pat White is fast and can run. Throwing is still up in the air...he missed some easy ones and that makes me worry. We might be able to run like this against USF...I'm not sure. But, I still think we need the passing threat and I still don't see it. Also, the passing defense is weak. The prevent defense got burned once but we gave up a lot of 3rd down and 5+. Short passes were available for Palko all game long...a good team would exploit that more.

So, passing offense and defense are kinda weak...not a big surprise...but, something that needs to be addressed. In all the reports of this game, expect to hear the disclaimer that the Mountaineers have guaranteed themselves a tie for the Big East title but still must beat USF to get a BCS bowl. Don't expect a lot of good publicity...the media is going to knock the Big East for USF still being in the title run and won't even talk about WVU. That's my guess anyway...

But, next week will end that discussion. Until then all that matters is this: WVU 45 - Pitt 13

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone...not going to be a grandiose update today but I might do one tonight or tomorrow following the Backyard Brawl. In the meantime, hope you have a wonderful day and evening and don't forget to be thankful for all the great things that have occurred over the past year.

Leaving Early

The fine folks here at work have come to the conclusion that today has been an absolute waste of a day and agreed that everyone should be able to leave at 3:30 p.m., so I'm in the process of shutting down here. I'm going to run to Wal-Mart to purchase some additional attire so I don't freeze to death at the Mountaineer game tomorrow...

So, that's my additional update for the day as promised...

Thanksgiving Eve

Thanksgiving Eve doesn't sound right...but, that's what it is. Anyway, today is "Reason to Come to Work Day" here...and today's reason is: Backyard Brawl. So, if you want to wear jeans and a sweatshirt or something to work, you can. But, there's a catch...you have to pay $3.00 to the United Way Fund. So, the question is: Do you want to be blackmailed into paying $3.00 to a charity you may or may not support or do you want to have to dress like you would on a normal day? I wrestled with my decision all morning...the United Way is not my favorite charity and I hate being put in a position that I have to pay to wear jeans or something...but, on the other hand, I like to dress casual. So, when all was said and done, I caved and paid the money. I feel so cheap.

Worst case for the Mountaineers in Kansas City was realized last night...coming back 0-2. So, they are now 2-2 on the season...2-0 vs. cupcakes...0-2 vs. real competition. The LSU game Saturday will tell a lot about where this team will end up.

CNN put a big X over Dick Cheney's face during a recent speech. They say it was a computer glitch. I don't believe them...and neither should anyone else. CNN = Ted Turner = Liberal Windbag.

The economy has improved immensely over the summer and gas prices are dropping. Domestically, holiday sales are high and it looks like things are heading in the right direction. Won't see that on the news but that's reality. Katrina didn't destroy the US like everyone said it was going to.

That's about it for this morning...I may update again today since I know it's going to be a long, boring day here at the office...later.

The Agony of the Sports Fan

Oh, the pain I felt last night as West Virginia allowed Texas to win the basketball game. I tried to turn away...I knew it was going to happen but I couldn't stop myself. I believed for a moment that the upset was going to occur...I believed the WVU was going to be the #2 team in the nation. I dreamed it possible and my dreams were crushed.

Firstly, going into the game against Texas I wanted one simple thing: be respectable. I was afraid I'd see a 100-47 blowout or some ridiculous thing like that. Texas is extremely good...and the jury is still out on West Virginia. But as WVU led most of the game, my hopes rose. A respectable game was no longer enough...I could see victory in the final minutes and that was the only thing acceptable. And it would have come to pass had Pittsnogle only been able to make some free throws. Two opportunities...two misses. Everyone knew what was going to happen after the second missed opportunity...there were no doubts. It was written the WVU would bow...and they did. Regardless of whether Gansey was fouled or not, WVU blew their chances at certain victory when Kevin couldn't hit a single free throw. 84+% from the foul line last year...0% for the Texas game.

Still, a great game in front of a national audience. One solitary point from another classic game...reminiscent of the Wake game last year. A clearly overmatched WVU coming up big...and I felt good about this: We didn't just hit the 3's to stay in the game...I saw a lot of good offensive sets that led to easy baskets. That's what I like to see. We were still outrebounded by a disgusting number but we more than made up for that with the forced turnovers.

I'm disappointed in the game but my I feel better seeing that we could compete with Texas. Expectations are a horrible thing and the expectations for the basketball squad this year are high. If we can compete with the #2 team in the nation like we did, we can have a successful year in basketball.

Speaking of agony, I'm eagerly awaiting the Pitt game. Can West Virginia fulfill the promise of last year this year? We were thisclose to a BCS bowl last year when we lost the final two games of the year to Pitt & Boston College. Similar circumstances this year...win out and you're in a BCS bowl. The WVU stock is rising...there's talk of not necessarily being the last team picked. But, like I've said before, be prepared for all the South Florida as Big East champ talk...it's ESPN's only hope of keeping WVU out of the BCS and it's become increasingly more obvious that ESPN, led by Corso & Mark May, hate Mountaineer football and the Big East.

So, what's happening...

Can you believe Tommy Maddox? I really feel sorry for the guy...I mean, the interception off of Hines Ward's foot was definitely not his fault but he still played pretty abysmal. Leading the Steelers to a loss against the pathetic Ravens isn't something that will endear you to Steeler fans. They trashed his house after the last loss...I just hope he has a house this week.

How about Penn State winning the Big 10? What a great gift to JoPa who turns 146 years old soon. And people thought he couldn't coach anymore. I'm not sure who I have to beg to in the football gods but I would love a Penn State/West Virginia matchup in the BCS. I don't see it happening but, man, would that be awesome or what? Let's start a petition or something...

Why is Wal-Mart selling a $10,000.00 ring? Doesn't that kinda go against their whole low cost philosophy?

I went and saw the Rockettes on Saturday and I'm not that ashamed to say it. They were really good...I was surprised. But, I doubt I ever do it again...

How about them Colts? I really am starting to believe they could go undefeated this year.

Be prepared to hear a lot of hype about USF over the next couple weeks until we come to town...the analysts are just licking their chops in the hope that the Big East sends a 3-loss team to the BCS so they can really make fun of us. Nevermind that there's a good chance the ACC could send a 4-loss team in Florida State. There's a clear message around ESPN to be sure to tear down the Big East at every opportunity. They're even starting to knock on the basketball side a bit by saying it's too crowded...it was only a matter of time...

That's about it...I'm going to do some work today so I don't have to come in over the long holiday.

Ah, a Friday at Last

This has been a long week of work...next week will be much better considering a 4-day weekend...about time. I mean, I worked 5 days this week...that's insane. They are making us put pictures of ourselves on our internal Intranet so that we can better recognize each other...to the right is the picture that is being used for me. Best one on there by far...

This is "rivalry weekend" in football but I'm having a hard time getting too excited about it. I'm anxious to see if Penn State can win the Big Ten. The Ohio State/Michigan game is a yawner this year...no enthusiasm for that. There's just no games that really get me excited about watching football...

So, I thought maybe it was basketball time. I tried to watch some college basketball but I heard Dick Vitale's voice and that ruined any chance of watching basketball. He has to be the most annoying man in the world.

Well, there really isn't much more I guess...it's getting cold out which is bad. I'm ready for turkey and I'm ready for the WVU/Pitt game.

Hmmmm...Let's See...

Well, things are progressively getting more interesting at work...it starts about two weeks ago...you may enjoy this story or you may not...but I'm telling it anyway:

So, about two weeks ago we have a department meeting to find out what everyone is working on and what we need to accomplish to finish out the year. Everyone kinda gives an update on projects they've been handling...etc. We get to my office neighbor, who I'll refer to as Habib (not real name) and he says "Nothing really". Nothing? He's been working on nothing. I mean, give me a break. Make something up...why would you say "nothing"? I mean, at least pull out a "Oh, I've been working on these TPS reports...they require cover letters now, ya know?".

So, with the "nothing" answer, we (my boss & I) decided to get a dry erase board to put at the end of the hall with outstanding projects that anyone could work on...like, fix a printer, move a computer, do some work...that kind of stuff. Well, when I left for Cincy on Wednesday, there were 17 tasks on the board. When I came back on Monday, there were...take a guess...17 tasks on the board. That's some efficiency there...

So, anyway, the guy works in another office a couple times a week...and I noticed that Habib had a laptop on his desk. So, I'm trying to gather up all our floater laptops and stuff so I was trying to figure out what this laptop was on his desk that was connected to an analog phone line. I booted it up and it was a floater but I decided to check out the Internet history...and, to my surprise, found Fantasy Footbal. Now, this is the same guy that we had to block Fantasy Football for the firm because he spend so much time on it. I ran a report on the analog line and he's been spending 3-5 hours a day hooked up to this line. So, I wasn't real pleased about that...

I'm not sure what we're going to do with this guy...my boss clearly isn't pleased with his work. He was telling me yesterday about a wireless router security fiasco that Habib caused. Apparently he doesn't know what a MAC Address is. He's alienated everyone in the department at some point. His office is immaculately clean...which, I know, isn't a reason to complain but if you saw what a mess mine is, you would complain too. I tWhen I see what work he does, I don't feel so bad about writing this blog thing...

Anyway, I felt I needed to vent that frustration out today before I go to work on my next project...I'm going to go add some things to the board as if it will do any good. It's only a matter of time before my head explodes...who wants to watch? Oh, and everyone else who works here isn't nearly that bad...just wanted to throw that in.

Weekend Wrapup

Well, not a lot really to talk about...went to the Mountaineer basketball game on Sunday against the powerhouse of Wofford. The Mountaineers were very cold in the first half which really scared me. Then they came out strong in the second half to pull away. I'm not sure that what I was watching was the 14th best team in the nation. Hopefully they will show some significant improvement before they have to face Texas next week...otherwise, a 0-2 finish in Kansas City is a distinct possiblity and would send WVU reeling out of the Top-25.

Steelers were able to beat Cleveland despite a Tommy Maddox siting. Hines Ward set the all-time reception record as a Steeler. That's pretty cool. T.O. won't be playing on Monday Night Football tonight...how cool is that? Nick Saban and the boys weren't able to beat the Patriots which was kind of disappointing.

Looks like we won't get a chance to play Alabama in the Sugar Bowl...LSU is a much tougher opponent for the Mountaineers if we get stuck playing them. I enjoyed watching South Carolina beat Florida despite my dislike for Spurrier. I'm sick of hearing how South Florida controls it's own destiny for the BCS...that's not true; WVU does.

I'm still shocked by the lack of Cincinnati fans at the Mountaineer game Wednesday. It was really disappointing...I can't believe the Bearcat fans didn't show up. Not a good sign for the Big East.

FAQs about the Bird Flu

I've been getting a lot of questions about this bird flu and I, as a certified genius, want to answer questions from the readers, like: What is the bird flu? Who's at risk? Are Yousa tinkin yousa people gonna DIE? and more. This is the facts and only the facts:

1. What is the Avian Bird Flu? - Bob the Messenger (Morgantown) The bird flu is a experiment by KFC gone wrong. Initially, KFC was attempting to come up with an additive that would make their delictable chicken even better and addicting. Unfortunately, the experiment took a wrong turn and ended up mutating into a killer flu. But, don't worry, KFC says their chicken is still safe and as addicting as it always was.
2. Who's at risk? - Justin (Buckhannon) Everyone Justin, everyone. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but KFC made this thing so strong that no one is immune. If you received a flu shot this year...too bad. It's doesn't protect against the Avian flu. And, if you think you're invincible, you're even more at risk. And you know you think you're invincible but I know that's not true.
3. How long do we have? - Greg (Kingmont) Not long...or maybe a long time. No one is in agreement. It seems to be killing a bunch of Asians...but that's where KFC does all their experiments. The flu hasn't mutated into being easily tranmitted by humans yet...but, when it does, expect everyone to just go crazy and throw a big Avian flu party at the Radisson in Morgantown.
4. Are Yousa tinkin yousa people gonna DIE? - Jennifer (NC) I know you went to Marshall but surely they taught you something about speaking. I'm not even going to answer that.
5. Is the mortality rate going to be high? - Andrew (WVU) Much better question. Yes, everyone who gets sick will die. Or they won't die. There's a 50% chance that one of those things could happen...or not happen. So, I hope that answered your question.
6. How can I protect myself? - Pat (New York) Simple...send me $20.00 and I'll send you a cure. Seriously, send me $20.00. I mean it.

If you have any additional questions regarding the Bird Flu, feel free to e-mail me. Or, if there is some other issue that you think needs addressed, do the same. I'm always happy to give you the correct answers...

Cincinnati Game

Well, headed up Cincinnati way with Jacob to see if the Mountaineers would be able to continue their run to the Big East championship. So, just a quick rundown of that trip and the experience of going to the campus of the Bearcats and watching a stomping...

Left Fairmont approx. 10:00 a.m. Conditions: Mild temperature and rain. Not too bad though. Things went pretty well until I got behind a truck that looked as though it was out mud-bogging all day or something. While the car wasn't clean by any stretch before I left, this truck completely covered me in mud....and, as luck would have it, the rain was done at that point and the mud was there to say.

Traveling to Cincinnati takes around 5 hours...upon arrival around 3:30, we found the campus first to try to find a good way from the stadium to the hotel for later. Instead of getting back on I-71, I had a hunch that I could find the back way to downtown Cincy and the Terrace Hotel. I was wrong. Instead, we wound up on the wrong side of Cincy...the ghetto you might call it. I'm talking about serious ghetto...even down to the obligatory black guy in the wheelchair with no legs ghetto. It was kinda scary...I locked the doors. Somehow, we survived and eventually found the hotel and somewhere to park.

The Terrace Hotel in Cincinnati was a recommended hotel and it wasn't bad really...no parking though. So, had to pay to park for an hour or so while we checked in (it was only $1 for 2 hours...excellent price). The lady at the front desk was kind enough to give me directions to Nippert Stadium which were very good. So, around 6:00 we headed out to the game.

$7.00 for parking on campus...walked around the campus a little while trying to find the stadium. It was still about an hour before kickoff so there wasn't much of a crowd yet...but, then again, there never was. Kinda got lost a little..saw the basketball facility and like some other well-lit alumni area or something. Finally found the stadium by following the Cincinnati band around. Seats were on the 3-5 yard line...first row. I mean, first row...like right at the wall. Couldn't see anything except the WVU cheerleaders. Luckily Nippert Stadium has a huge scoreboard that shows every play...so, that was how I watched the game. The stadium has undergone a lot of work over the past few years and it looks like they're not quite complete yet. It is a cool stadium though...right in the middle of the U. of Cincinnati campus.

Cincinnati fans didn't show up really...and those that did left at halftime. They didn't really do anything cool...no chants, no noise...at least not that I could ever distinguish. There were, to put it nicely, boring. There were a lot of Mountaineer fans there though..more than I expected for a weeknight game in Cincinnati. The Mountaineer wasn't allowed to shoot the musket but the Bearcats shot off fireworks on the field before the start of the game and shot a cannon a couple times during the course of festivities. That caused some consternation among the Mountaineer brethren. Of course, it was sad for Cincy to not have any fans and not even be able to keep the lights on...especially since it was a chance to shine on national TV...but, that's life.

By the time the game was over, it was only Mountaineer fans. The "Let's Go Mountaineers" chant was in full force and the Bearcat players were shooting us dirty looks. To leave, we went on to the playing field and out a tunnel...I don't think that was standard protocol but no one was guarding the fence. So, we just kinda took the place over. Poor Bearcat fans didn't know what to do. Maybe the best line of the night was in the 4th quarter when the fans were doing the "Let's Go Mountaineers" and a distraught fan yelled from the walkway as they were leaving "You've already won". It was a great night.

So, traveled back today...had to stop and get gas before leaving Cincinnati. A gentleman "Needing money to get a cab to go to work" was kind enough to wash my windows for $3. He said a buck or two but I was feeling generous. The ride back was nice...good weather. I immediately washed my car when I got back to Fairmont because it was disgusting. But, that's about it...I'm sure there's more but I'm tired and will now go to sleep.

Real Quick for Ya'll

Don't want you to go through withdraw while I'm gone...so, a quick update before I head up Cincinnati way...

• T.O. apologized, Eagles yawned and said "yeah yeah...whatever". Did anyone else thingk he sounded like a character off of SNL? Maybe the Ladies Man with a slight lisp? Talk is that he may end up in the ATL. What's the over/under for this statement: "Vick can run the ball but he can't throw it. I need someone who can get me the ball. I'm a playmaker."
• Marshall, Marshall, Marshall. If you missed that game last night on the deuce, you missed a funny one. Two blocked field goals and a clanker. I felt pain for the green machine...I did. I guess I could have gone to the game...did you see all those empty seats?
• John McCain is cracking down on steroids in MLB. I thought this guy was a senator. Does he really have nothing better to do?
• Welcome back college basketball. WVU destroyed Wheeling Jesuit...I'm impressed? Get well soon Shaq...before Wade realizes he can do it without you and develops Kobe syndrome.

Alright, that's it for today...I'm not sure how this thing became completely about sports but, hey, until I think of something else, that's all I got. I'll give you a full Cincy rundown on Friday when I'm back...maybe Thursday evening. Oh, and WVU by 2 touchdowns.

Anti-West Virginia Bias

"South Florida controls its own destiny in the Big East: It's not time for the BCS to panic yet, but the Bulls (4-3) have a clear path to the Big East title. That means a $14 million to $17 million payday for a program whose entire budget is approximately $9 million." -- Dennis Dodd; CBS Sportsline

"Notre Dame could certainly be tripped up at Stanford, LSU could get tagged by Ole Miss and its tough defense, Virginia Tech could have a hard time at Virginia and/or against North Carolina, and South Florida could certainly take the Big East title away from West Virginia. In other words, don’t relax just yet." - Pete Fiutak; Collegefootballnews.com

And I've heard similar sentiment on ESPN all weekend. South Florida is in the driver's seat in the Big East. USF could be in the BCS with 3 losses. Yeah, that's definitely possible. But they have to still beat some teams...technically, West Virginia is in the driver's seat for the BCS. But no one is giving any respect to WVU for the season it has had so far.

To begin the season, it was all Louisville and Pitt. Pitt imploded so it became a run-away for Louisville. Well, USF destroyed Louisville but everyone still said the Cards were going to win the Big East. Then WVU beat Louisville so the story had to change again...Rutgers was only a game behind WVU and if Pitt and USF could beat the Mounties, then Rutgers could go to the BCS. Well, Rutgers blew it to USF so now South Florida is in complete control of the Big East.

Now, I'll be the first to admit that WVU was not supposed to be that good this year...7-4, 8-3 at best. It's a rebuilding year. But they have stepped up and beaten Maryland on the road and Louisville. They beat Rutgers on the road and handled UConn. So, WVU is in the driver's seat. They head to Cincy tomorrow night and, if they win (which they better), they'll be 8-1 and two games away from wrapping up it's first BCS appearance. Of course, they could implode and still finish in the Car Bowl but they'd really have to fight to do that. Pitt will be a contest because of the rivalry and I'm anxious to see the USF game. But don't hand this conference to South Florida...I know the media doesn't want to give WVU any respect but eventually you have to face the fact that WVU is a major player in college football...or the Big East at the least where it is 20-4 over the last 24 Big East games.

Additionally, WVU has been ranked in the Top 25 in 23 of the last 31 polls. That's a major accomplishment...yet somehow everyone seems to completely ignore any accomplishments the Mountaineers make. Even the beloved Notre Dame can't say they have been in the Top 25 that much in the last 31 weeks.

Where to Begin...

Well, I was a little off in my predictions on Friday...I asked to see a sideline fight in the T.O. situation and I guess it happened in the lockerroom. Darn. More on that shortly.

I missed my game of the week obviously. I had predicted East Fairmont would beat West and neither team would go to the playoffs. Way off there. West destroyed East and made the playoffs. Oops. Now, I've watched East play like 6 games this year and West 2, now 3, and, I can say without a doubt that West Fairmont is not 32 points better than East. I could see how they might win in a close game but I would have never guessed a blowout like that. East has some talent but it never showed on Friday. The team came out flat and, I hate to say it, but that comes down to coaching. Maybe it's all psychological...I'm not sure...but it should have never been a game like that. 45-13, ridiculous. Now West gets to travel to Jefferson...good luck with that.

Notre Dame continued winning by beating an under-talented Tennessee team. I'm not sure I ever thought TN could win as much as I was hoping they would. I actually heard a commentator on ESPN on Saturday talking about how much a playoff would be great because then we could see a Notre Dame-USC rematch. Or even in a plus-one game. I've said this before and I'll say it again: Notre Dame has lost TWICE! Not once...TWICE. Give me a break.

On the winning side, Miami destroyed Virginia Tech and Marcus Vick was pretty ineffective. Of course, we got the obligatory Michael vs. Marcus comparisons...and we got to hear what a great coach the goiter is...and we got to talk about what a powerhouse Va. Tech is. I'm sorry...but Virginia Tech was NOTHING until like '95 at the earliest...until then, they were bottom feeders. I'll admit, Beamer has a good team...but they don't have the tradition of a Miami or FSU or Texas or USC, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Ohio State, Michigan...etc. And for ESPN to pretend they do is just insane.

Other wins I was right on...Penn State over Wisconsin...JoPa wins the Big 10 at the ripe age of 113. North Marion defeats Preston and celebrates by eating the buckwheat cakes the Preston had brought for a post-game snack. Steelers defeat the Packers and eat all the cheese in Wisconsin. Brett Favre is still wandering around LaBeau Stadium looking for someone to overthrow. So, for the week I was 4-2.

Lastly, and firstly, T.O. has been indefinitely suspended from the Eagles. What in the world took them so long? And how has it taken this long for someone to get into a fist fight with him? I'm surprised that didn't happen at training camp. He's alienated the quarterback, head coach and entire Eagles organization. I would send him away now...there's certainly some bottom-feeding team that will take him and let him run the entire organization...I'm talking to you Houston.

So, good luck to you T.O. and, just to get it started now, the Red Sox are still going to suck next year.

Football Predictions

I hate Terrell Owens and I hate the Eagles...that's why it was a match made it heaven when they got together. Everyone said "Oh, T.O. and Donovan will get along and it will be a heck of a combo". I said, wait until T.O. doesn't get what he wants...he will meltdown. It started right after the Eagle lost the Super Bowl. Then, T.O. didn't get his contract. Now, he's out saying the Eagles would be better with Favre as QB. Owens is a waste...he's talented but he's not a team player. I enjoy watching the implosion...maybe we'll see a good sideline fight. I can only hope.
Anyway...on to the football predictions (and nothing funny today...I don't have time):

North Marion @ Preston - North Marion ends the season on a high note and wins. Shame that no one is there to see it. N.M. 24 - Preston 16

Tennessee @ Notre Dame - Oh, please Charlie, wear the green jerseys. The "Luck of the Irish" runs out and the curse of Ty Willingham begins. The racist Irish lose to the "due" Volunteers. TN 42 - N.D. 28

Wisconsin @ Penn State - JoPa gets confused and sacks the Badger quarterback for the last play of the game but the officials are blind and didn't notice he was on the field. So the Lions are on their way to a Big 10 title. State 28 - Wisconsin 17

Miami @ Va. Tech - The goiter is sick this week and Beamer can't get the high school girls off of Vick. And the castrated Turkey is running from hunters looking for a Thanksgiving meal. Hurricanes ruin Tech's "National Championship dreams". Miami 33 - Va. Tech 24

Steelers @ Packers - Steelers run the ball and Bret Favre throws 76 interceptions. Steelers win 18-3. But, if Tommy Maddox comes out on the field, this choice is null and void.

And, the game of the Week, Fairmont Senior @ East Fairmont - Like I've said before, neither team is going to the playoffs. I just don't see it happening. However, at least one of the teams will have a winning record. The Curse of L.D. sinks the Polar Bears. The Bees triumph and finish 17th in the final poll. Just calling it as I see it. EFHS 22 - FSHS 16

That's all folks...

West Virginia Rolls

Well, I'd be a liar if I said that the Huskies didn't scare me a little going into the game. But West Virginia quashed any doubts early in the game and absolutely annihilated the poor UConn Huskies. It was a brilliant display of running and tough defense.

On the negative side though, the passing game is still non-existent. Pat White had several open receivers early in the game and overthrew them all. J.R. House came in and threw the ball better than Pat. We can beat Cincy, Pitt and maybe USF with no passing game...but, should we accomplish that, I have a hard time believing we can beat a BCS team with no passing game. We need at least the threat of being able to throw the ball and I'm not sure Pat White's arm is any better than Rasheed's was. He did finish 7-16 for 106 yards, which isn't bad, but we still have no deep threat.

Anyway, in other news:

• I got cold at the game and left in the 3rd quarter. As if you care...
• The Lakers beat Denver last night. I hate Kobe Bryant.
• A-Rod got in trouble for allegedly going to illegal poker games in New York. I can't believe that really made headlines on ESPN. How stupid.
• Pitt plays Louisville tonight...we need Louisville to win to stay in the Top 25 and help the Big East. Pitt's season has been a waste.
• Notre Dame gave Charlie Weiss a 10-year extension the other day because he started 5-2. Ty Willingham started 8-0 in his first year at N.D. and got a pat on the back. Everyone loved Tyrone except the boosters at Notre Dame. But N.D. insists it wasn't because he was a different race. Yeah, right.
• East Fairmont bonfire tonight in preparation for the big East/West Game tomorrow night. Playoff implications could be on the line. But, they're not. Neither team, win or lose, will probably make the playoffs.

Football predictions this afternoon or tomorrow.