Server Room Progress

Oh man, we have been working on the server room here at work and have made some tremendous progress. In case you hadn't seen the original pictures, here they are...from November 16, 2004:


























So, anyway, that's the original pictures...here's the update as of January 30, 2006. Be prepared to be amazed...

Whew...

Well, the Mountaineers almost blew it against the Johnnies...giving back most of an 18-point lead in the final minutes. But, as usual, a Gansey steal and some made free throws seal the deal for WVU in a very important bounce-back win. WVU next hosts Notre Dame at the Coliseum in what should be another close game that they need to win. Notre Dame and Cincy may be the only "easy" games remaining on the schedule...so, it's important to win those.

Despite the loss to Marshall, a lot of people still have high expectations of WVU and are looking at the Mountaineers as a 3-seed in the NCAA tournament. How many Mountaineer fans thought we could be a 3-seed about 4 years ago?

John Kerry, Ted Kennedy and Hilary are threatening to filibuster Supreme Court nominee Sam Alito. RCByrd has already said he will vote to affirm Judge Alito...and says that Alito is well qualified to sit on the high court. I have yet to hear a good reason for filibuster...other than the liberal base not liking him. No wonder it is so hard to get people to want to work in public office...here is a qualified person for the Supreme Court that has had to undergo ridicule before the Senate and now has to face this filibuster option by the libs. It's ridiculous...

Football signing day is Wednesday. Still no word on a "high profile" recruit like Gwaltney was...what a shame.

I watched the Lakers/Pistons game last night. A few things to take away from the game: 1) I like the Pistons...they play well together and they're fun to watch. 2) I don't like Phil Jackson. 3) I don't like Kobe. I don't care if he scores 150+ in a game...he still takes ridiculous shots and doesn't care about his teammates. 4) I don't really like the NBA.

Bill Walton kept talking about the "degree of difficulty" in Kobe's shots. He made shots with a "high degree of difficulty". Over and over...I heard that phrase at least 10 times last night. Well, Bill, last time I checked it didn't matter what the degree of difficulty was...a 2 if worth 2 and a 3 is worth 3 whether it is easy or difficult. This isn't ice skating with judges awarding points determined by degree of difficulty. Bryant is just stupid for taking difficult shots...

And, I think that's about it for today...oh, and Meg Bulger being injured for the WVU women's team is a big setback. But, they've been struggling anyway...Mike Carey looks like his head might explode any day now.

Things I don't like...

Here's a list of things I like...there are other things I like too, but here's a few:

• I like unexpected January bonuses because business is so good
• I like Family Guy DVDs (except for the movie...I still think it's kinda stupid)
• I like Office Space and I like to be by the window where I can see the squirrels
• I like Chinese food sometimes
• I like respect for WVU athletics and I like John Beilein and Rich Rodriguez
• I like buying ties

Here's a list of things I don't like...there are other things too, but here's some:

• I don't like spending hours on a project to find that the starting point was wrong so you have to do it again from scratch
• I don't like having to travel to meetings with people to turn on a projector and laptop and wait until they are done so I can turn off the projector and laptop
• I don't like putting cover letters on my TPS reports
• I don't like people in the IT department fighting with each other and being too juvenile to just realize they're both wrong and apologize
• Oh, and I don't like said IT people using me as the go-between for their bickering
• I don't like people who try to convince other people WVU is the best team in the nation without any reasonable rationale
• I don't like trying to come up with a portion of an IT budget for the coming year without any real clue as to what projects are on the to-do list
• I don't like Chinese food sometimes
• I don't like Gansey, Pittsnogle, Herber, Beilein and Collins all leaving at the same time
• I don't like WVU losing to Marshall and making me look like an idiot

That's about it for today...oh, we're ordering Chinese today.

More Stuff

Well, in lieu of the traditional Steelers songs, here are a couple songs that are receiving rotation on the Eric McGuire Radio Show...my favorite morning show I guess. Steeler Song and PAHLAMALU SONG. The former was actually submitted by myself...a relative of a coworker sang it and I thought it was cool enough to be on the radio. Anyway, go here and vote for Mike Gansey: Vote For Mike Gansey. An article from Dickie V. - The Big B-east Confrence.

I've noticed something odd over the past couple months...there is this sudden and compulsive obsession with Chuck Norris that I'm not sure I completely understand. Collegehumor is devoting all kinds of picture space to him...I mean, he's funny and all but I don't get it. Why did this trend start? It has spawned such sites as http://www.chucknorrisfacts.com/. Which gives us Norris facts like:

Chuck Norris' tears cure cancer. Too bad he has never cried. Ever.
Chuck Norris does not sleep. He waits.
Chuck Norris is currently suing NBC, claiming Law and Order are trademarked names for his left and right legs.
The chief export of Chuck Norris is pain.

I guess it's funny...it's also very stupid and odd. But, that's our society...occassionally this random and completely absurd phenomenon comes about and attracts a large portion of people. I can't explain it...I just revel in the hilarity of it all.

I watched American Idol again last night...I really feel bad about it too. I mean, I just can't stand that show but I can't turn it off. I'm thinking about seeking professional help...and, that's about it for right now.

Basketball Rumors...and other stuff...

Now, I've heard this through the grapevine but I have no evidence whatsoever that it is actually true...pure rumor. But, if you have more detail, please provide. Rumor is that Mrs. Beilein isn't real happy with Morgantown...she doesn't particularly care for West Virginia. She doesn't hate it...she just doesn't like it here and she has been encouraging John to look elsewhere for employment.

Now, if John Beilein were to leave, now would be the best time for him to do so. He's not going to get any hotter than he is now...and, look at who is leaving after this season (Beilein, Pittsnogle, Gansey, Herber and Collins). He's basically going to be starting from scratch next season. And, judging from what we have seen from bench play this year, he has a long way to go. His son will be gone...and he has proven his system will work in big-time basketball. He really has nothing left to prove.

So, if Beilein would leave at the end of the season, guess who needs a job? Bobby Huggins. Yes, I have heard that the administration at WVU is prepared to offer Bobby a job if Beilein were to leave...and Huggins already has recruits lined up to follow him where he ends up. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't think there's anyone at WVU hoping Beilein leaves...but, if he does, there's a replacement sitting somewhere waiting for a job that has a reputation as a big-time coach (and a big-time thug). Once again, pure rumor...not really substantiated by anyone...but, sounds like a scenario that could occur. We'll know for sure after the NCAA tournament.

Okay...so, now just a couple questions. What is with the tatoos on Pittsnogle? I mean, I know everyone makes fun of them but seriously. It looks like a 5-year old started drawing on him and he decided to have it permanently affixed to his body. He looks ridiculous. I mean, I'm glad he plays well and I hope he makes it in the NBA...but I think he should invest in some tatoo removal. It's just really bad.

And what's up with Gansey's hair? I mean, I'm not saying he needs to brush it or anything...but, why does it stand up in the back like that? That's just weird. It always looks about the same which makes me believe he fixes it that way...which is strange. I'm thinking about sending him a comb. Oh, and speaking of Gansey, there's some good buzz following him...a lot of people are talking that he may go 2nd round in the NBA draft. He would be a good 7th or 8th man to come into a game...play awesome defense and create some shots. If Gansey and Pittsnogle are drafted, Beilein will have done something that Catlett couldn't...that is get some players into the NBA. And Herber has a good chance of making some really good money playing basketball in Germany. That's a pretty successful class...especially considering what WVU was going through when they started.

Here We Go, Steelers...

Well, the Steelers have finally reached the Super Bowl again. I think there's a reason they win on the road...and that is that daggone "Here We Go, Steelers" song. I mean, who wants to listen to that thing...I think when the Steeler players think about going to the Super Bowl, they think about that song and that's why they lose. Seriously...end the misery. But, when they're out of town, they don't have to hear it so they win.

Anyway, I was surprised by the effectiveness of the Steelers offense throughout the playoffs. Roethlisberger is a pretty good quarterback and we have some tough receivers. I think the Steelers/Seahawks matchup is pretty good...Cowher vs. Holmgrem. Should be something cool to watch.

Anyway, I went to Wheeling today...to Oglebay to be exact. Had to setup some computers at the Waddington House. Now, I've been to Oglebay before but not this cabin. Man, is it nice. 5 bedrooms...all with private baths and private entrances. I huge dining room, kitchen, family room and bar area. Nice deck area with grill...a big conference table. Nice place is what I'm saying. Only $3000 a week during the off-season. Now, that sounds like a lot but when you break it down to say like 10 people...that's only $300 a person for a week...sounds like a deal to me. Maybe a nice place to go next year...

I went up with a coworker and after we setup the cabin, we headed downtown to Quizno's to buy some lunch. After we left, some old man approached and said "I have some good news for you two." Now, I was a little taken aback by him...I didn't know whether he was going to shoot me or hand me some candy or something. I stood there and waited and he told me that Jesus loved me and would be visiting soon. My friend thanked him...and he said "huh". My friend said "awesome" and he said "huh". My friend said "That's good news," and he said "yeah". As we walked down the street, I said something about hmmm, well, at least he didn't shoot me and my friend said "huh" and I spit pepsi all over the sidewalk. That was the most exciting thing that happened today...

Updating Finally...

Well, WVU had a huge win against the Bruins on Saturday...it was a good day for all the Big East really. Georgetown took down Duke and Pitt is no longer undefeated. Anyway, WVU beat UCLA and did it without making many good shots in the second half. Obviously Pittsnogle was off his game and the 3's weren't dropping like we've become accustomed to. Yet, the defense played well and Mountaineers grinded out a tough victory. That's a good sign...they could have easily folded when UCLA was on its run but they didn't...they held on. So, we've seen this team take huge leads and let teams back in but still win...fall behind and come back and win, and blow opponents out of the water completely when the shots are falling. They really have the potential to get far this year...hopefully they don't drown in the mounting expectations.

And the expectations are mounting as they gain respect. I'm tired of Mountaineer fans whining about not getting respect. That's bull. The Mountaineer basketball team gets a lot of respect...I don't like ESPN but they are talking about WVU as a legitimate Final Four threat. Dickie V is talking about Mike Gansey during ACC games...Andy Katz is saying WVU's offense is like a concert piece. I mean, how much more do people want? Oh, that's right, they're still talking about the lack of respect in football. Well, I think we have gotten it there too. Pat Forde is calling us a preseason #1. But, keep this in mind people, we won one game. One big game...and look at how much we want from it. People are saying this makes WVU a big-time program and legitimizes the Big East...there are a lot of articles that are saying that. I'm not sure...I think it's the base for something good but the Big East needs to win some more games to be a big-time football conference and WVU needs to keep winning too. Teams like Ohio State and Texas don't have just one good season but many in a row to become a big league program...WVU has a few at best.

As far as myself...I have been busy at work. We had a trial going on this week and were preparing for another at the same time. And, on top of that, I had to get equipment ordered and ready to take to Oglebay Monday for a portable office setup. So, it was really busy and I haven't had time to do much of anything...even keep up on the news to have something to write about. Have you ever tried to OCR 11,000+ documents...it takes a long time. And then I'm trying to seutp remote access to our document system and make it somewhat secure. Yeah, work is good stuff.

Oh, but I did have time to watch American Idol. I truly hate that show but I watch it. It embarrasses me as the viewer. It's absolutely insane. Everyone at work has been singing "I Shot the Sheriff" like the deputy from Wheeling. All I could think was "how can that guy go back to work?" It would have to be a bet or something...otherwise I'm sure the other officers would make his life very difficult. I just don't understand the really bad people that appear on the show...is it a joke? Are they really serious? They can't be...can they?

So, anyway, that's about it I guess. I'm traveling to Wheeling on Monday, Martinsburg on Tuesday and Moundsville on Friday...probably Moundsville the following Monday too. Other than that, I plan to be in good ol' Fairmont.

Oh, it's Wednesday Again...

We'll start out with a joke:

So, this snail is standing in front of the Cadillac salesman, see, and says, "How much is that Cadillac?" The snail says,"I want a big 'S' put on each door and on top of the car, I want a big 'S' so everybody can see it." Salesman says, "Why do you want that?" He says, "When I drive down the avenue...I want everybody to say 'Look at that S-car-go.'"

Look at the S-car-go. That's gold Jerry. Gold!

Anyway, WVU ran their winning streak to 11 despite a very poor shooting performance. I'm not sure they can beat UCLA with that type of shooting performance beyond the arc...but, then again, I liked the inside game. They missed several easy layups but the looks were there...I'm happy about that. A win over UCLA should move them into the top 10...how cool is that?

Yes, the ref in the Steelers game blew the interception call. It was wrong and I thought he was an idiot for it. But then I watched Stephen A. last night talk about the blown call and he insinuated that perhaps the official was too old to be able to see the screen. Now, I have to defend the ref because I hate Stephen A. Maybe the official didn't completely understand the rule...there is some confusion remaining on the possession rule. I'm not sure how much clarification he can get from upstairs on calls like that...and why can't he call over another official to confirm his decision? I don't believe that age had anything to do with it...nor do I believe the officials were trying to cheat. He blew it...it happens...A LOT.

But, that about wraps it up for today...I'm waiting for the snow so I can drive home with my favorite people on the highway. Talk to ya later...

What Does Recruiting Mean?

What's always one of the first things you hear after a big West Virginia win? That should really help recruiting. But, really, what does that mean? Right now, according to scouts.com, West Virginia is tied for 58th in the country in recruiting...that shouldn't be too much of a shock...here's the past few years:

2002 - 33rd. Big recruit from that class: Durrell Robinson, wide receiver. Hmmm...a big 5-start wide receiver whom I never heard of. But, maybe more interesting is a couple players from that 2002 class who didn't finish their 4 years at WVU: Chris Henry and Adam Jones...both 1-star players. Hmmm, yeah. And this is the class that just led us, minus those two 1-star players, to a No. 5 finish.

2003 - 57th. Star of that recruiting class was a JUCO transfer (4-star) - Kay Jay Harris. He worked out pretty well. Not so highly regarded (2-star) was Mark Magro, Eric Wicks and Adam Bednarik. But they seem to be working okay for us.

2004 - 53rd. Commits included a 2-star unknown named Pat White. Or another one named Dee McCann. Hey, there is a couple 3-star guys...one being Darius Reynaud. But that was about it. No 4-star or 5-star athletes. But, Pat White has turned out to be alright.

2005 - 33rd. The BIG 5-star recruit: Jason Gwaltney. How has he worked out for us? Especially when you compare him to the 3-star Steve Slaton, one of the top running backs in the country. A 4-star guy on there is Pat McAfee...and, well, he was a nice addition. But this class still has a lot of time left to prove themselves...

So, I guess the moral is not to get caught up in all the talk to "blue-chip recruits" and ranking of recruiting classes. Pitt has had higher ranked recruiting classes (25, 39, 47, 42, 7) than West Virginia and that hasn't made much difference. Or look at Tennessee to see a high recruiting class not work...recruiting is important but the coaches know what they are looking for. People who evaluate talent...not so much.

Well, if they (refs) weren't cheating against you before, they probably are not: Jerry Porter runs his mouth against the refs in the Steelers/Colts game. I'm not real sure what the point of this is...why argue against the refs? Do you think that's going to help you in the next game? I'm sure if doesn't. Yes, I question the call about the interception...I don't understand and I would like someone to explain it to me. If Polamalu makes no attempt to get off the turf, it's clearly an interception. But because he tried to run and fumbled the ball, it's an incomplete pass? I want to see that in the rulebook. But I'm not sure that it is Jerry Porter's job to call out the refs on it. He just better be preparing for Denver.

I want to see how good a coach Pete Carroll really is...and next year should tell the tale. Aside from Leinart, Bush and White, USC is losing a ton of players. He's been called a genius by everyone at ESPN...right up there with Charlie Weiss and Bill Belichick (who, just like the Golden Boy quarterback, did plenty of whining after their playoff loss to Denver. Funny, they weren't crying after the tuck rule game or any of the other billion calls that have gone their way over their dynasty.) Anyway, we'll see what a genius Carroll is next year when he's rebuilding at every position...of course, his talent will still exceed most other schools in the country...let's just see what he does with it. It should be easy to win when you have 10 of the top 50 players in the country...other schools do it without any. Those are the real "geniuses".

Did Peyton Manning whine after his loss to the Steelers? It sure sounded like it. He's blaming his offensive line for the loss...well, maybe he should have changed the way he played to compensate for his offensive line not being able to hold the Steelers rush. When you have 5 guys blocking 6 or 7 players, sacks happen. Maybe he should have pulled in more blockers or ran quick outs or something...he did a bad job managing the game. Also, more from the Steelers game: Is Ben Roethlisberger trying to look like Kyle Orton or Jake Plummer? What is up with this horrendous beards that look like they've been on Survivor for the past 39 days? Shave, ya bums.

And what is up with these guys beating up bums down in Florida? How much do you want to bet that they were videotaping it to put online? And, lastly, violence at the unity parade down in New Orleans. Why are people so eager to rebuild this place like it was? Can't they see that it was just a gang-ridden warzone? Why do they want it to be exactly the same? They're insane...that's why.

First of all, who could ever get tired of watching Georgia fans' reactions to the Sugar Bowl. Thanks to Brian for sending me this...it was a hoot:
http://eersfan.com/Georgia_Bravado.htm

Second, how bad do you feel for Tom Brady right now? Can you imagine the pain he is going through now? I mean, to only win 10 playoff games in a row. I really feel his pain today. But at least he gave the Broncos credit for coming out and playing a good game and forcing 5 turnovers to beat the hapless Patritots. "When you lose, you want to go down fighting," Brady said. "You want to go down playing your best and we didn't do that. We made it easy for them." Hmmm, maybe he didn't give credit to Denver after all.

It's kind of like the Sugar Bowl game...yeah, maybe you didn't feel you put up your best game, like Georgia says they didn't, but that is the game you played and Denver beat you playing the game you played. You can't go back and play another game...whether it was your best effort or worst effort, it's the effort you played with for that game and that's all you can do. Teams don't "beat themselves"...the other team beats them and that's the end of the discussion.

Next, how many other people thought the Bus blew the game for the Steelers? Be honest. I did so I know darn well you did too. All I could think was "Is this how he is going to end his career?" Can you imagine having the career Bettis has had just to fumble away a final shot at a Super Bowl ring? It would be fitting in some way...but it definitely would suck. I can't wait til next weekend to see what the Steelers can do against the Broncos. It should be a good game. However, with the Colts loss, I lost my opportunity to have the Super Bowl party at Dorsey Knob Lodge courtesy of the Eric McGuire Radio Network. Oh well, like I told everyone, I would glady trade that party for a Steelers win...and it looks like that is what happened.

Ummmm...I really don't care about the other NFL games at the moment. The Mountaineer basketball team continues to impress me. A few more wins and they'll lock up their NCAA tournament berth. If this team is clicking come tournament time, they could have a shot. As a columnist from ESPN said, this is the team that could do anything...it wouldn't completely shock you if they went out in the first round and it wouldn't completely shock you if they ended up in the championship game.

I didn't hear too much more today about the protesters at the Sago mine memorial today. The media bought right into their crap though...and gave them what they so desparately sought...attention. People were visiting their website and discussing their views, whatever those may be. That's what they wanted...and, they got it. Oh well, I guess that's just how things go.

Lastly, if you're looking for an alarm clock, get this one: http://www.uberreview.com/2006/01/clocky-alarm-clock-for-snooze-button.htm

Funny Stuff...

from Deadspin.com

Well...

Without putting a lot of thought into it, I won a radio contest this morning by knowing who Mother Teresa was. The contest is basically that if the team you pick makes it to the Super Bowl, you get to go someplace to have a Super Bowl party with 7 people of your choice...I can't remember where but it sounded nice. Being an idiot, I picked the most likely team...the Colts. But, if the Colts really do make it to the Super Bowl, do I really want to watch it? I mean, I don't care that much. I knew the answer, so I called in...but I probably shouldn't have. Now I'm not sure what to do...I guess hope the Steelers win. Had I picked the Steelers and they made it, then having a Super Bowl party would be fun...Colts, not so much. I may call them and tell them to put the Colts back in the pool...I'm not interested. Not sure yet...

HEY, AN UPDATE!

Yeah, I know I haven't updated this week...sorry, my bad. I've been busy ya know...anyway, here's the week in sports:

The Mountaineer basketball team continues to excel. 3-0 in Big East play...yeah, I'm surprised. But, they have to keep it going...Marquette at home on Saturday. Another big game...they all seem to be big now.

Apparently someone didn't like the Mountaineers at the Sugar. Lauren Morgan thought that Georgia set the standards for others. Maybe you can tell her how you feel about it...

I love Mike Tyson's Punch-Out. This live version is awesome. Live Action Punch-Out

I've been busy with work...but, it's a three day weekend coming up. I'll probably put some more stuff up then...later.

Sports Weekend

Well, let's start out with the Mountaineers and their brilliant win over #3 Villanova. There was a time in Mountaineers basketball when a victory over the #3 rated team in the nation would prompt riots on the street...it would be unheard of at WVU. But with Beilein as coach and following the Elite Eight run last year, it's just another great victory...the second over a Top-10 team this year. On the road. That's pretty amazing...I am impressed. I was really afraid this team over-achieved last year and would never live up to expectations this year...but, thankfully, I was wrong. Andy Katz, who is quickly becoming a favorite of mine over at ESPN.com, thinks the Mountaineers offense is poetry in motion. And I'm not sure that I would disagree. Georgetown at home next...wear Gold.

The Steelers disposed of the Bungles...errr, Bengals to advance in the playoffs. The real test is next Sunday when they travel to the Colts...where they were convincingly defeated last time they played there. I guess the real story in that game though is the injury to Carson Palmer. I don't think the play was intentional...Palmer should be back for training camp which is good news for the 3 Bengals fans out there.

Lastly, Marcus Vick was dismissed by Virginia Tech. Something tells me this wasn't the decision of Frank Beamer but rather the decision of the administration trying to save face. Most schools would have released Vick before now for his transgressions. Or, at least would have suspended him following the driving on a suspended...for marijuana possession. Virginia Tech is a bunch of thugs...Beamer allows that. I guess the administration has had about enough of it.

Just some News...

The honors keep coming in for the Mountaineers. Steve Slaton especially...CBSSportsline.com gave not only Slaton but the entire WVU Offensive Line honors on the "All-Bowl Team". Collegefootballnews.com also like Slaton and Mozes and gave Rich Rodriguez "Coach of the Bowl Season". Pat Forde believes WVU can be a Top 5 team next year...#3 to be exact. And Lee Corso and Kirk Herbstreit both have the Mountaineers at #5 next year...we'll see how that all works out.

Oh, and looks like Virginia Tech is going to bow to the public pressure and do something about the punk, Wilma Mexico. There's lots of other good football news out there but I don't have time to go through it...later.

Maybe the entire Virginia Tech team is nothing but a bunch of punks?

Fourth Quarter of a Championship Game

Alright, right now I am watching the 4th quarter of the Rose Bowl...USC 24 - Texas 23. USC has the football around midfield...there is 12:35 remaining. USC has finally figured out how to move the ball against a really, really good Texas defense. For the most part, Texas has managed to keep Reggie Bush in check...and they've gotten a few good licks on Leinart. Here's some thoughts and stuff as they come up...

Lendell White is the man...he's basically carrying the Trojans down the field. Texas really needs to make a stop. How huge is that missed extra point right now? 11:48 - White just carried the ball inside the 30. The USC offensive line is getting stronger.

11:19 - Bush finally broke one. He literally flew into the end zone. They reviewed it but he clearly broke the line...I'm not sure if Texas has a comeback in them. USC 31 - Texas 23.

11:10 - Young threw a pass and it was fumbled...but, they called it incomplete and there wasn't enough evidence to overturn the call. They're showing some USC greats...I don't see O.J. Simpson? Where's OJ? OJ is the greatest Trojan ever. The Longhorns are driving. Why do they start these games so late...it's already 11:40 P.M. and I have to go to work in the morning.

8:46 - Vince Young nearly fumbled trying to get a first down...instead it's 4th down and UT is going for a 34 field goal. It's good and it's now USC 31 - Texas 26. Keith Jackson has struggled calling the game...he does good for about 10 minutes and then he goes off in his own world for about 5 minutes. I won't tear him apart now...maybe tomorrow. In the meantime, a Taco Bell commercial.

8:40 - USC ball at the 20. Texas needs to stop a drive...USC has scored on their last 4 possessions. The announced attendance is 93,986. Big play and personal foul...roughing the passer but apparently they didn't rough him enough. The ball is now all the way on the Texas 31. Texas needs a turnover bad. 6:42 - Touchdown pass to Jarrett from Leinart. USC is pulling away...I'm not sure Texas can stop them. A couple Texas defenders were injured on the play. USC 38 - Texas 26

I hate cell phone commercials. They're so stupid. Do you think Lee Corso is waiting around eagerly like a high school girl for the opportunity to "interview" Matt Leinart? I bet he can barely contain himself...of course, he'll want a piece of that Pete Carroll/Reggie Bush action too.
Pete Carroll has now been proclaimed one of the greatest defensive coordinators/coaches of all-time by the ABC commentators. 5:49 - Texas is battling down the field...a couple first downs and they're now in USC territory. They haven't given up...

4:03 - Touchdown by Vince Young. Nice pump fake...just tricked the Trojan defense. USC 38 - Texas 33. The Longhorn defense took a big hit last time down the field with a couple injured players. Can they stop the USC offense? They haven't for 5 consecutive possessions. I'm not overly optimistic but, then again, I wasn't the other night either.

Kickoff to Bush...Keith Jackson's voice jumped 4 octaves on the 30 yard return...he so desperately wants USC to win...you can feel it. What happens to defense in bowl games? I mean, seriously? UT needs a turnover. 2:22 - 3 & 7 from the 50 for USC. This might be the game...and 2 yards short. 4th & 2. What do you do? Fake punt?!? Holy CRAP! They went for it? And they didn't get it!!! STUPID!

2:09 - There is hope in Texas. Ball is at the UT 44. 3rd down already. What happened to the Texas offensive line? They are broken! 3rd & 12. 8-yard game but huge USC penalty for the automatic 1st down. Face mask...woo-hoo!!!

1:23 - Ball at USC 46. Fumble? Down? Yes. 0:57 remaining....errr, 1:04. Young runs to the 30 yard line...0:53 left. Can you say greatest championship game ever? It's trying to get there. 0:45 - Pass to the 14 yard line. Texas is moving this ball...plenty of time. 2 Timeouts left for Texas. Don't leave too much time!

1st down - Jump ball caught out of bounds...almost. 2nd down - Young runs it to the 9 yard line. Timeout. 3rd & 5 coming up. The commentators are just now figuring out that UT must score a touchdown. A field goal won't do any good. Hmmmm...who knew that?

3rd down - Incomplete pass. Uh-oh. 4th down -- I'm moving to the floor to pray to the football gods. TOUCHDOWNTOUCHDOWNTOUCHDOWN. VINCE YOUNG RUNS IT IN FOR THE 9 YARD TOUCHDOWN!!! HOLY COW!!! Need to go for two I think...and they will. USC burns their last timeout? What's that about? For a two point conversion you blow your last timeout with 0:19 remaining. I don't understand that at all.

Pete Carroll looks like someone stepped on his puppy. Two point conversion is GOOD. And, surprise surprise, it's a Vince Young run. 0:19 remains...UT will be kicking off. Reggie Bush has been quiet...can he make something amazing happen now???

Kickoff is at the 30 yard line. 0:16 remains. No USC timeouts left. Remember the end of that Michigan game? I have $20 that says Carroll practices plays like that. :08 and Bush carried the ball all the way to the Texas 43. That's not good. Leinart runs around and throw an incomplete pass. GAME OVER...GAME OVER!!!

TEXAS IS THE 2005 NATIONAL CHAMPIONS. SWEET SWEET SWEET! MORE LATER...

A West Virginia Tragedy

I'm saddened and disgusted with the whole mining accident thing in Upshur County. It's a tragedy for a lot of people...mining is a dangerous industry, as evidenced many times over. But, it's a job that has to be done...some in the media, like Katie Couric, don't understand that...but, it's a tragedy and I feel sorry for all the families affected. I'm disgusted by the media coverage...I'm disgusted by the fact I went to bed this morning thinking 12 survived and wake up this morning to find that 12 perished. The media needs to learn to confirm things before they report it...but, this is just like New Orleans and Election 2000...the media hears something and reports it as the gospel regardless of the truth. But, I'm sure there will be a lot on that over the next few days.

Not that anything else is all that important but I'll comment on a few other things...congratulations to Joe Paterno. He does it the "right way". He recruits good players with integrity...not the thugs that Bowden has made his living off of. JoePa cares about his players and the PSU...I'm not so sure about Bobby.

I hope Texas stomps USC tonight...I'm not sure that will happen but it would definitely be a great cap to a good bowl season.

I had anticipated writing about my New Year's resolutions today (or lack thereof) but I'm not feeling too great...lack of sleep or illness...I'm not exactly sure yet. Maybe I'll get to it tomorrow...

Marcus Vick is a Punk

Ron Mexico's (aka, Michael Vick) little brother is nothing but a punk. He is the worst type of player...he lives off the success of a family member, plays average football and is treated like a god. Just because he and Frank Beamer's goiter seem to have a thing going doesn't give him the right to get away with something as heinous as that was. Via Deadspin, I will now refer to the younger Vick as Wilma Mexico.

Elvis Dumervil was completely helpless at the time Wilma ran his cleats into his calf. And, as far as the cry of being unintentional, I ask you to review the video. Wilma was standing over Dumervil, looked down at his leg and then stepped on it. There is no way this is unintentional. This was a deliberate act attempting to injure the star of the Louisville defensive unit. The goiter said that Wilma apologized but that was news to Dumervil who said “I haven’t heard from him. As a matter of fact, he even talked more in the game after that. It showed he’s a no-character individual.”

And, this isn't an isolated incident. Remember when Wilma flipped off the crowd at Mountaineer Field? Or clocked a WVU assistant on the sideline? Or flipped the helmets at Boston College? Or liquored up those high school girls? Or drove recklessly while running his reefer? Wilma has a history and it's time for the NCAA to step in and take care of this guy. Virginia Tech is obviously not interested in cracking down on the brother of Ron Mexico, their most famous alumnus who put them on the map.

Man, I can't tell you how happy I am Notre Dame lost. Between the N.D. loss and the Mountaineer win, well, those are very happy moments for me. I truly detest Notre Dame. I haven't heard it yet, but I'm sure Charlie Weiss, being the honorable man he is, is taking full responsibility for the defeat. If he coached any other team, I would like Charlie, but Notre Dame is not likeable. And what they did to Ty Willingham remains wrong. Everytime A.J. Hawk sacked Brady Quinn, my day brightened. I can only hope misery on Notre Dame and their fans for the next 10 years.

Penn State/Florida State...can you say Grumpy Old Men Three? I don't think they made a Three? Did they? Anyway, I'm all about the Nittany Lions and Joe Paterno. JoePa has turned around a once proud program...I can only hope he mops the floor with Florida State, the real team that didn't belong in the BCS. Four losses and people had the nerve to complain about West Virginia. Go Lions. Oh, and go Steelers too...didn't mention they made the playoffs even thought I wrote them off after the loss to Cincy. My bad...hopefully they can get the Bus a Super Bowl ring before he retires at the end of the year.

Oh, and read this...Instant Analysis by CollegeFootballNews.com

How Sweet It Still Is...

It was only 12 years ago that WVU posted an undefeated season that led them to a showdown in the Sugar Bowl against Florida. West Virginia was five years removed from an undefeated season that pitted them in the Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame for the National Championship. West Virginia was ranked #3 in that nation but then-coach Don Nehlen wasn't pleased with the Sugar Bowl bid. He wanted another shot at the national championship and clammered to the media every opportunity he got that WVU deserved a shot in the championship game. The word he threw around the most was Respect. WVU deserved Respect. What happened? WVU was clobbered 41-7 by a much better Florida team.

It was a real setback for WVU football and for Don Nehlen. He had put his reputation on the line by claiming WVU was ready for primetime and instead was embarrassed. WVU lost respect that it still hadn't reclaimed 12 years later. The loss, fairly or not, defined Nehlen's tenure at WVU...he could talk to the talk but he couldn't win the "big ones". That loss at the Sugar Bowl is one of the major contributors to fans so eagerly awaiting his departure in 2000. Don Nehlen did more for WVU football than any coach before him but he couldn't turn WVU into a national threat.

Enter Rich Rodriguez. A 3-8 season to start with, he turned the program around and has now led the 'Eers to 4 consecutive bowl appearances. However, the "can't win the big ones" label was starting to attach itself to the new coach. Considerable losses in the Tire Bowl followed by back-to-back losses in the Gator Bowl had Mountaineer Nation grumbling with the same criticism that plagued Nehlen. Add in the lack of respect for the Big East and you had a Mountaineer team that no one counted among the elite, or even higher end, of the college football spectrum.

WVU is in a bad spot...we don't have a powerhouse like Ohio State, USC or Texas. We don't have the tradition of a Nebraska, Oklahoma or Notre Dame. And we don't have the history of a Pittsburgh, Syracuse or Michigan. And WVU isn't bad enough to draw on the pity or novelty factor of a Vanderbilt, Northwestern or Marshall. We are in a boat...a good team in a bad conference that folds when the stakes are high. We're in the same boat as Oregon or South Carolina (pre-Spurrier). No one cares about WVU football.

But, that could change. WVU finally won a big one...the Sugar Bowl victory will resonate throughout college football land and people will take note of this squad. The BCS victory also increases the Big East's chances of maintaining it's BCS status for a few more years. WVU will finish 6th or 7th in the country and will start next year in the Top 15. WVU will also be the odds-on favorite to win their 4th consecutive Big East crown. Can WVU meet these lofty expectations? Who knows...in the past, when all eyes affixed to WVU, they collapsed under the pressure. But then again, that was before WVU won the "big one".

WVU - Sugar Bowl Champions?

Where to begin? I really have no idea...I'm glad OSU destroyed Notre Dame. I guess that's a start. But, of course, the game of the night was WVU/Georgia. Now, let's be honest...we all wanted West Virginia to win. And we all picked West Virginia to win...not because we believed they would win but because our hearts told us to pick them. We desparately needed a bowl win...a Sugar Bowl was all the better. 83% of ESPN readers believed Georgia would win...and, my brain believed Georgia would win. Only my heart...as sappy as that sounds...believed otherwise.

I never believed completely we won the game...28-0, Georgia could come back (and did). Up by 3 with 5:00 left, Georgia could come back and win. Even with 1:45 left, I had no doubt that Georgia would score and we'd be shocked again. But then, something magic happened...Rich Rodriguez made the best (and most gutsy) call he's made in 5 seasons...the fake punt. When Phil Brady picked up the first down, I believed. To me, that was the type of plays Rod promised when he came to WVU...he finally executed one at a key moment. It was one of those plays that, had it failed, WVU fans would have tried to sell his house for. But, it was successful and WVU is the Sugar Bowl Champions.

What does this mean? The Big East won its BCS bowl over the SEC Champion. Unfortunately, none of the other Big East teams were able to win their bowl games. So, the Big East finished 1-3 and, despite this big win, will still be looked down upon. WVU will finish this season ranked around 7th and be a preseason Top 15 team next year. Lots of expectations...and we know how that goes.

But, I've said this before...and I'll say it again...don't expect a lot of national exposure or kudos from the national media. The story will be that Georgia made a huge comeback but came up just short. And the story will be the Big East was 1-3 in bowls this year. And the story will be the lack of a WVU pass game. And then they'll move on to games they consider more important. West Virginia is going to have to put together a string of high profile wins to move into the national spotlight for good. In the meantime, enjoy this win because it is definitely something special for Mountaineer fans.

I'll talk more on the specifics of the game later...and what the future will hold...like higher season ticket prices. Until then, GO MOUNTAINEERS!

Final Sugar Bowl Review...

Okay...I made my Sugar Bowl prediction about 3 weeks ago but I'll revisit it now that it is less than 24 hours away. Here's what I wrote back then:

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

Do I still stand behind that? Yes. The importance of this game has actually risen over the past week...not just for WVU but the entire Big East. With both USF and Rutgers falling, the Big East is 0-2 in bowl games and the Brohm-less Louisville definitely isn't a lock in the Gator Bowl. I win by WVU in the BCS would make up for the losses and really lead into something good next year.

For West Virginia to move the ball, the key is obvious...complete a couple passes and confuse the Georgia defense with the spread offense. If West Virginia can't run for over 150-yards, they won't win. But Pat White hasn't proved that he can pass the ball effectively, especially against a tough defense like Georgia is going to show.

Defensively, the 3-3-5 has to get pressure on Shockley. Additionally, the secondary can't be sitting back the entire game...third downs will be key and the WVU defense has not been good on third down. Shockley will slice up the soft coverage that WVU has shown all year.
Special teams? Well, that edge would go to Georgia too. Brandon Coutu has been much more consistent than Pat McAfee...so, if it comes down to a field goal that doesn't bode well for the Mounties. The crowd? Well, the game is in Atlanta and, despite how well WVU travels, they can't make up that difference so it should be a substantial Bulldogs crowd. And, West Virginia has a proven track record in bowl games...and it's not a good one.

Let's face it...Georgia is a higher profile team and, on paper, they should win this game. I still think WVU can do it though...I think White and Slaton will provide a dynamic enough attack to keep the Georgia defense off balance. And add Schmidt into that package to plow over a few defenders. I think the WVU defense will intercerpt a couple Shockley passes which will determine the outcome of the game. And, I think Coach Rod will add a few wrinkles to the offensive schemes that will confuse the Bulldog defense. Win or lose, it was a good season for the Mountaineers and you can't be down too much. But a bad loss will be a setback for the program and the entire Big East...