Embarrassing?

Has the WVU head coaching search turned embarrassing yet? What about the lawsuit to collect $4 million from the former head coach? Does this embarrass the program or make the program look "serious"? I'm asking because I really don't know.

On one hand, I'm glad the University didn't just turn the head coaching job over to the first person who showed interest (Terry Bowden) or their first interview (Doc Holliday). Either of them could still get the job but I think it's good that others are getting interviewed. Unfortunately the longer the search goes on, the more likely we'll hear other names that will pull their name and some will see that as embarrassing (Jimbo Fisher, Nick Saban).

Personally, I think they should take all the time they need if that means landing a good coach. Of course, in the heat of recruiting time, that comes at a price. The biggest misconception I hear is that the university has to hire someone from the WVU family (Bowden, Trickett, Fisher, Jones, etc.). I think they need to find someone from outside (Locksley, Petersen, Foster) to breathe new life into the program and bring enthusiasm. The coaching seach is no embarrassing.

Is suing Rodriguez embarrassing to the university? It could be. If Rodriguez actually prevails and proves that WVU did not live up to their end of the contract, it could be devastating. WVU committed to having an elite program and if Rodriguez proves otherwise it could alienate the entire Mountaineer fanbase. However, I don't believe WVU will file the lawsuit if they didn't believe they could prove they have provided Rodriguez with everything that was guaranteed in his contract. If WVU wins, the lawsuit is not embarrassing.

There is one thing, however, that is embarrassing to the university and that is the recent comments by Ken Kendrick. His swipes at the Mountaineer Athletic Department undermines the integrity of the entire sports structure at WVU and is more problematic than any of the aforementioned issues. Kendrick's assertions will scare recruits and donors more than any head coach search or lawsuit. If Kendrick can provide evidence of his claims, he could irreparably damage the university for years and years to come. I believe that Kendrick's claims are just sour grapes from a donor who believes his money should yield him more power and I base that on recent comments by Mike Puskar. However, just the shear publicity Kendrick has attracted for his claims are definitely embarrassing to the university.

Anyway, I think WVU should have a coach by the time the National Championship Game is played and, whoever it is, WVU fans should support. I don't think anyone should be embarrassed by WVU trying to collect money that is rightfully owed to them or by taking time to interview potential head coaches. Hopefully they make the right choice and WVU will continue to be successful. I don't see this as the end of Mountaineer sports by any stretch...of course, I didn't think we'd lose to Pitt either. That was embarrassing.

And Chaos Ensues

The assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could have ramifications that resonate throughout the world in the months that lie ahead. When all seemed to be calming down and good news was spreading, the suicidal maniac that took Bhutto's life could set off a series of events that threatens stabality from Pakistan to Iran to the United States.

The first of these is obvious: President Pervez Musharraf has major issues to deal with in Pakistan. With elections only a couple weeks away, the attack on Bhutto threatens to undermine any elections in the country. Nawaz Sharif, also a former prime minister and a political rival, has already announced his Muslim League party would boycott the elections and has called upon Musharraf to step down as president.

Unrest in Pakistan bodes poorly for regional stability. One of the key allies in the war against terror, political unrest could give remaining Taliban and Al-Qaida members in Pakistan the ability to organize and begin another major push in Afghanistan. Unrest in Pakistan also threatens the uneasy peace the country has with India. The border disputes between the two nuclear countries makes the United States/USSR "cold war" look downright quaint. A military confrontation between these two countries could be disasterous for the entire region.

The United States may be tested in Afghanistan if Taliban and Al-Qaida forces regain strength in Pakistan. Also, if the Pakistani government comes under heavy fire from Islamic extremists, the United States could come under heavy pressure to act in Pakistani borders to prevent a complete meltdown and collapse into an Islamic state.

Of course, that's looking at worst case scenarios. I'm cautiously hopeful that maybe some positive changes could come from the Bhutto tragedy. Perhaps the people of Pakistan will finally be fed up with the Islamic extremists they have been harboring in the country and will stand up and finally expel the opponents of freedom who have long ruled so many regions. Perhaps President Musharraf will use this as an opportunity to actually hold free and open elections in that country. Perhaps this will be the tragedy that ignites a people to standup against tyranny in all forms.

But that's probably just wishful thinking. Hopefully this doesn't mark the start of a very dangerous chapter in Pakistani history. I know that I, for one, will be watching the unfolding of events in Pakistan in 2008 with great interest because those events could dictate world policy for a generation.

For Those Who Wonder - Jimbo Fisher

On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, everyone agreed that Doc Holliday would be brining his gun-slinging ways to Morgantown and take over where Rich Rodriguez once stood. Boy, what a difference a few days make. Beginning yesterday, all eyes turned to Jimbo Fisher from Florida State. And today, many are claiming that Jimbo will be the next coach at WVU. Personally, I give him as much chance of being the coach as Terry Bowden, Doc Holliday or Mike Locksley. All have been mentioned...but Jimbo is today's flavor of the week...or day. So, without further adieu, some information about another West Virginia native, Jimbo Fisher.

Born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Fisher attended Liberty High School before going to Salem College in Salem, West Virginia where he played quarterback under head coach Terry Bowden from 1985-1986. When Bowden left for Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, Fisher transferred with him to play his final season for the Bulldogs where he was named Division III National Player of the Year.

In 1988, he played one season in the Arena Football League. He then rejoined Bowden at Samford as a graduate assistant coach working with quarterbacks from 1988-1990 and was subsequently hired as the fulltime offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. After two seasons, Fisher moved with Bowden to Auburn University where he coached quarterbacks alongside offensive coordinator Tommy Bowden. While at Auburn, Fisher coached several successful quarterbacks including Patrick Nix, the current offensive coordinator for Miami.

Fisher continued at Auburn until the hiring of current Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville in the wake of Bowden's 1998 mid-season resignation. He then coached quarterbacks for one season at Cincinnati before joining Nick Saban's new staff at LSU in 2000. When Saban left for the NFL's Miami Dolphins Fisher remained at LSU to continue his role with Les Miles. He has guided several well-known quarterbacks in his tenure with the LSU Tigers including Josh Booty, Rohan Davey, Matt Mauck and JaMarcus Russell.

After the 2006 season, Fisher interviewed for the head coaching position at the University of Alabama at Birmingham but the Board of Trustees, which also governs the University of Alabama, vetoed the contract offer for Fisher causing some controversy. He subsequently signed a three year contract to become the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for Florida State University. He will receive a base salary of $215,000 with incentives increasing the total package into the low $400,000 range. In a press release on December 10, 2007 Jimbo Fisher was named the eventual successor for the legendary coach Bobby Bowden, although Bowden has not yet announced a retirement date. This new contract will pay Fisher about $600,000 per year with a $2.5 million buy out clause.

So, there you have it. You see Jimbo kinda fits into the Bowden / Rodriguez triangle for West Virginia by playing and coaching with Terry. Fisher brings a pretty impressive resume with him should he choose to come to WVU. The recent suspension of 36 Florida State players may play a part in Jimbo's decision considering his is supposed to be the next Florida State coach. After witnessing the Seminoles conduct issues, he may be giving that gig a second thought. Obviously, the $2.5 million dollar buyout is the biggest obstacle to bringing Fisher to WVU but if the University wants to make a splash with their new hire, stealing Florida State's Offensive Coordinator and next Head Coach is probably about as big as it gets.

For Those Who Wonder - Doc Holliday

John "Doc" Holliday was born August 14, 1851 and was an American dentist, gambler and gunfighter of the Old West. In September 1873, he went to Texas where he opened a dental office. He soon began gambling and realized this was a more profitable source of income. In Dallas, he was indicted, along with 12 others, for illegal gambling. He was arrested in Dallas in January 1875 after trading gunfire with a saloon-keeper, but no one was injured and he was found not guilty. He moved his offices to Denison, Texas, and after being found guilty of, and fined for, "gaming" in Dallas, he decided to leave the state.

By 1877, Holliday was in Fort Griffin, Texas, where Wyatt Earp remembered first meeting him. The two began to form an unlikely friendship; Earp more even-tempered and controlled, Holliday more hot-headed and impulsive. This friendship was cemented in 1878 in Dodge City, Kansas, where both Earp and Holliday had traveled to make money gambling with the cowboys who drove cattle from Texas. On the side, Holliday was still practicing dentistry from his rooms in Dodge City, as indicated in an 1878 Dodge newspaper advertisement (he promised money back for less than complete customer satisfaction), but this is the last known time he attempted practice.

After many years of gambling and riding the range with Wyatt Earp, Holliday began to settle down. By the 1970s, the Old West had died and Holliday went to college and graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education in 1979, then graduated with a Master's Degree in 1981 in Safety Management. Holliday was also a three-year letterwinner while playing linebacker at West Virginia.

In 1979, Holliday became a graduate assistant for the West Virginia Mountaineers football team. Then in 1981, he became a part-time assistant until 1982. Holliday became wide receivers coach in 1983 and remained at that position until 1989.

In 1990, Holliday became the inside linebackers coach. He remained coaching the linebackers until 1992. In 1993, he returned to coaching the receivers. In 1995, Holliday was promoted to assistant head coach, while still maintaining receivers.

During his tenure at West Virginia under head coach Don Nehlen, Holliday achieved a prestiguous record. He coached the top three career and single-season reception leaders in school history and eight of the top ten players in both categories. He also coached the leading receivers in the Big East in 1996, 1997, and 1998 while also coaching three of the top six receivers in Big East history. He coached third-team All-American receiver Reggie Rembert, three-time all-Big East receiver Rahsaan Vanterpool, all-Big East receiver David Saunders, all-Big East receiver Shawn Foreman, and all-Big East receiver Khori Ivy during his tenure and also was responsible for seven eventual NFL draftees.

Holliday was also the main recruiting coach in the Florida-area for West Virginia. Holliday was responsible for recruiting majors stars, such as linebacker Steve Grant, and became one of the best recruiters in the nation. He also helped the Mountaineers to 12 bowl games in his twenty years at West Virginia.

In 2000, Holliday left West Virginia for North Carolina State. There he became the assosciate head coach and wide receivers coach. He remained at NC State until 2004.

During his time in North Carolina, Holliday coached three of the top eight receivers in school history: Koren Robinson, Bryan Peterson and Jerricho Cotchery. In 2001, the squad set school records for completion percentage and fewest turnovers, while the 2002 team led the ACC in scoring. That squad also finished with school records of total yards, passing yards, most points scored, and most first downs in a season. The 2003 squad then set records in pass attempts, pass completions, passing yards, passing yards per game, passing touchdowns, and pass completion percentage.

In 2005, Holliday traveled to the University of Florida and became the Gators' assosciate head coach, safeties coach, and recruiting coordinator. In 2005, Holliday was named one of Rivals.com's Top 25 Recruiters, while also tutoring a secondary that only allowed 52.3% of passing to be completed which was 16th best in the nation.

He guided safety Reggie Nelson to a consensus All-American honor and to become a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award and Bronko Nagurski Trophy in 2006. Also in that season, the Gators' pass defense efficiency was fourth-ranked nationally and second in the SEC while only surrending a nationally tenth-ranked 10 touchdowns all season and sixth in the nation in scoring defense.

Obviously Holliday's journey from gun-slinging gambler to one of the top recruiters in the nation is an inspiration in the Old West. But the fact remains that Holliday has never been a head coach in college football and many wonder if his old habits are behind him. If West Virginia goes in this direction, will we get the Holliday that can recruit like none other or will we get a dentist that has gone bad?

The Legacy of Rich Rodriguez

Until December 1, the legacy of Rich Rodriguez would be one of an innovater who led West Virginia to the biggest victory in school history in the 2005 Sugar Bowl and to the verge of a national championship. He would be known as the man who picked up where Don Nehlen left off and carried the Mountaineers to the promised land. By the time December 2nd rolled around, all that had changed and the legacy of Rich Rodriguez was forever altered.

A 13-9 loss to Pittsburgh forever changed the face of Mountaineer football and has tarnished the reputations of two of the greatest coaches the school had ever seen. A mere 2-weeks following that astonishing defeat, Rodriguez was sitting with Michigan representatives, hashing out a plan to vacate Morgantown. Perhaps Rodriguez realized he would never live down the loss to Pitt and the loss of a national title shot. Perhaps he realized he choked when all the cards were on the table and the opportunity would never present itself again at WVU. We will never know for sure, that is certain.

Just as Mountaineer fans were accepting the loss to Pittsburgh and beginning to look forward to a BCS bowl and another season, Rodriguez dropped the bomb that he would not return as coach of West Virginia University but would instead travel to the alleged greener pastures of Michigan. With that act of treason, Rodriguez cemented his legacy as a 13-9 loser to Pittsburgh with everything at stake. The Sugar Bowl victory and the Big East Championships will become distance memories but the sting of the defeat that cost West Virginia a shot at a national championship and the betrayal that followed will linger much longer. It's the bad memories that tend to remain more vivid over time, and Rodriguez provided a one-two punch to leave Mountaineer fans with.

When called upon to give comfort to the grieving fans of West Virginia football, the elder of West Virginia football and gold standard to which Rodriguez was compared chose to dump salt into the open wounds that were opened by the departure. Instead of assuring Mountaineer fans that all would be well in Morgantown, Don Nehlen took the opportunity to heap praise upon the tradition and majesty of the Wolverines. Instead of just remaining silent, the former coach portrayed Michigan as a Major League club, while West Virginia remains in the Minor Leagues, hoping to be called up someday.

When all is done, the damage done to the legacies of two Mountaineer coaches will be irreversible. At some point, Rodriguez and Nehlen will look at Mountaineer fans and only see contempt. If they wonder why, it's because Mountaineer fans look at Nehlen and Rodriguez and only see Maize and Blue. And those are two colors we never need to see again.

Alright Joe...

Let's see...who would be the first person you would talk to about what happened at WVU? Ed Pastilong? Mike Garrison? The million football analysts as ESPN, CBS, Fox and the likes? Nah, the first person to talk to is obviously Governor Joe Manchin.

Manchin took time for him "busy" schedule running the state to blast college football and Rich Rodriguez saying Rodriguez is a "victim of a college coaching system driven by high-priced agents that has turned those dreams into just another back-room business deal." Manchin went on to commend Ed Pastilong and Mike Garrison for their work and that he trusts them "and the WVU Board of Governors completely with the coaching search that now lies ahead.

As far as I'm concerned, Manchin should keep his opinions to himself. He's the governor of a state, not the overseer of college football for West Virginia. He forced himself in the West Virginia/Marshall conversations and forced West Virginia to play in a "Friends of Coal" Bowl. He's interjected himself in several situations that have nothing to do with the State of West Virginia just to keep himself in the public eye. If he's so concerned about the state of college football and the West Virginia coaching search, maybe he should appoint himself to the position since it appears RCB isn't going anywhere soon...

WVU Head Coaching Candidates

It's time to play "Who Wants to Coach West Virginia University!" Will the candidates please line up...no need to push, everyone will be given a chance to be rejected. Let's get started (Hireability Scale: 1-no chance / 10-give him the job).

1. Terry Bowden. The most thrown about name in the short 24-hours since Coach Rod betrayed the West Virginia faithful has to be Bowden. A West Virginia alumnus, Bowden has said he wants to get back in coaching and WVU is his "dream job". Bowden is a big name but he hasn't coached in 10-years and college football has changed a lot in a decade. Bowden left in the middle of the season at Auburn due to brewing scandals but his record speaks for itself for most. Hireability: 8


2. Butch Jones. Jones was receivers coach at WVU before heading to Central Michigan, where he has led the Chippewas to their 2nd consecutive Motor City Bowl. Would have a pretty good understanding of the current offense and might actually want to throw the ball around some. Little head coaching experience though and there's some thought that Rodriguez may want him back as an assistant at UM. Hireability: 6


3. Jimbo Fisher. A West Virginia native, Fisher's name was brought up a lot last year when WVU thought they might need a coach. Has a proven track record at LSU as an offensive juggernaut but struggled this year at Florida State. Might have been able to snag Fisher last year but now that he has been assured to follow Bobby Bowden at FSU, it's doubtful he would come back up north. Hireability: 5


4. Jerry Moore. Moore already coaches the Mountaineers...of Appalachian State. He has led the 'eers to 3 consecutive I-AA championships and has a spread offense that beat Michigan this year. A proven coach that probably deserves a shot at the big time. But the guy is 68-years old and it's doubtful we want a coach for 5 years before he retires. Hireability: 3


5. John "Doc" Holliday. Doc's name is another that comes up every time a replacement coach is talked about. Doc Holliday is one of the most prolific recruiters West Virginia has ever seen and has had great success as an assistant head coach and receivers coach at NC State and Florida. However Holliday has no head coaching experience and, from what I have heard, burnt a few bridges when he left WVU. A throwback to the Nehlen era, I'm not sure how Holliday would adjust to the current situation. Hireability: 6


6. Todd Graham. Former co-defensive coordinator under Rodriguez, Graham is currently at Tulsa where he led the Golden Hurricane's to a 9-4 record and a conference championship. Would be a great asset in strengthening West Virginia's defense. Hireability: 7

There's a lot more names...but I'm not sure what they're doing. Calvin McGee (current assistant head coach/offensive coordinatory - Hireability: 6) may follow Rodriguez to Michigan. Hopefully Jeff Casteel (Hireability: 2) does the same. Other names being thrown around include, but are not limited to: Steve Dunlap (Hireability: 3), Skip Holtz (Hireability: 7); Larry Coker (Hireability: 5); Kirk Ferentz (Hireability: 3); Bud Foster (Hireability: 7); Lee Corso (Hireability: -1); Lou Holtz (Hireability: -2); Nick Saban (Hireability: 4); Bobby Petrino (Hireability: 7); and, Don Nehlen and/or Jeff Hostetler (Hireability: Just Kill Me Now).

In other news: Terrell Pryor is likely going to Michigan. Josh Jenkins is probably going somewhere else. The Rodriguez/Jan. 3rd resignation story is gaining momentum; apparently there is some truth to it and he is trying to weasel out of the buyout. There's still a lot of questions about why he's leaving and apparently the press conference didn't really address those. I'm sure it will all come out eventually...Rodriguez will blame the university and the university will say Rodriguez was selfish. It's a good thing there isn't a game to prepare for or anything like that. What's that? Oh yeah...I forgot...

WANTED: New WVU Football Coach

Obviously West Virginia now needs a new football coach. So, I will discuss those candidates tomorrow or Tuesday. But first, a little of the speculation that is going on in Mountaineer land (you know, rumors, make believe and maybe a little level of truth) with a believability rating (1-low / 10-high).

1. Rodriguez threw the Pitt game knowing he would be offered the Michigan gig. If his team was playing January 7th for a national championship, he couldn't take the Wolverines job. Believability: 1 - There's no way he throws a shot at a national title.
2. He dated his letter of resignation for January 3, 2008, after the Fiesta Bowl. So either he coaches in the Fiesta Bowl as a hired employee or WVU has to fire him or forfeit the $4 million buyout. Believablity: 4 - I really don't know what the deal is with the contract. If this is true...well, I will lose a whole lot more respect for RR than I already have. Of course, most Mountaineer fans have no respect left...so it doesn't matter.
3. West Virginia will lose several players, including Noel Devine, Steve Slaton and 5-star recruit Josh Jenkins. Believability: 9 - Devine has been homesick and Rod has been the only thing keeping him at WVU. Expect him to transfer to a Florida school. Slaton is NFL bound (good or not) and Jenkins is going to look elsewhere. We'll lose some other recruits and players as well...but that's what happens when there is a regime change.
4. Don Nehlen encouraged Rich Rodriguez to look at the Michigan job. Believability: 2 - Sure, Nehlen was at Michigan before coming to WVU but I can't see him trying to chase off the current coach. Of course, Nehlen could be upset about the lack of respect for the 80s and 90s teams but do you really think Rodriguez looked for the Nehlen seal of approval? Highly doubtful.

There's more...there's rumors of a possible near physical altercation when he informed the players...which I doubt seriously. There's all kinds of coaching rumors out there...from the obvious (Terry Bowden, Jimbo Fisher, Steve Dunlap) to the interesting (Larry Coker, Skip Holtz, Butch Jones) to the completely out of touch (Lloyd Carr, Nick Saban, Bill Cowher) to the I seriously hope not (Doc Holliday, Lee Corso, Rick Trickett). I'll break down some of those guys when I get some more time. In the meanwhile, feel free to get out to some of those message boards out there and dump some gasoline on all the rumors...

Goodbye, Rich Rodriguez

And a 2-day saga ends with Rich Rodriguez packing his bags and heading to Ann Arbor to join John Beilein. On one hand, I'm glad that this dram unfolded quickly and ended abrumptly with Rodriguez's resignation. On the other hand, I'm disappointed with the outcome. To walk out on your team as they prepare to play Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl is nothing if not cowardly. Of course, Rodriguez will say that he had to make the decision now due to recruiting considerations and the distraction the constant rumors would cause his Mountaineer squad.

The reasons for Rodriguez's departure aren't clear yet. Rodriguez apologists will point the finger at Ed Pastilong. I've already heard that all Rodriguez wanted was some additional money for his assistant coaches and some improved facilities. Seems reasonable, right? Somehow I doubt that is all Rodriguez was looking for. Some have said the threats Pat McAfee received following the embarrassing loss to Pitt made Rich look at other possibilities. Do we really believe no Michigan player has ever been threatened?

The fact is that Rich Rodriguez couldn't keep his eyes on Morgantown and West Virginia University. He readily admitted that he looked at every coaching opportunity that was offered, and there's nothing wrong with that really. But when you tell Mountaineer fans that you want to be at WVU for the rest of your career and tell members of the media that they are stuck with you whether they want you or not, you tend to believe that he meant he was staying at WVU for the long haul. Perhaps Rodriguez meant to say he was staying at WVU for his entire Mountaineer coaching career. Who knows?

Regardless, Rich Rodriguez broke a contract that he has signed with West Virginia University and walks out on players, recruits and a large and loyal fanbase that supported him through good and bad times. A West Virginia native and WVU alumnus turns his back on his school and community to chase the "big-time" that he apparently never felt he could achieve with the Mountaineers. But, be warned Wolverines fans, should any other "national" program come calling, even the hated Buckeyes, watch him closely because he obviously has no issues in deserting his teams, no matter how loyal they may be to him.

Here We Go Again

Seems a bit like deja vu really...West Virginia is preparing for a bowl game, recruits are committing to colleges and Rich Rodriguez is being associated with another job. Sporting News reported and others quickly picked up that Rodriguez met with Michigan officials over in Toledo on Friday. Of course Rich Rodriguez won't comment on these rumors because he doesn't comment on these situations. Michigan officials will neither confirm nor deny.

Last year, when the Alabama came calling, I was on Rod watch 24-hours a day trying to find out what was going to happen. Didn't want to lose this coach. I wanted Pastilong to do whatever he had to do to keep Rich Rodriguez as the coach of West Virginia University. And Pastilong stepped up to the plate and offered Rodriguez more money and, I'm sure, several other concessions on facilities, etc., to keep Rod as coach.

This year, I don't know if I care. We lost John Beilein to Michigan only a few short months ago and that was a huge loss but we've obviously moved on. I don't think we can find the Bobby Huggins of football to hire but I'm not going to freak out about it this year. Maybe Rodriguez just wants attention. Maybe he really wants out of West Virginia. Maybe he thinks he deserves more money.

If it's money, I think WVU is paying him amply for the job he's doing. Granted, he's not making as much as the Alabama coach. He's making less per win than a lot of coaches in D-I. But he's also at West Virginia. As much as we want to believe otherwise, we're not on the same field as an Oklahoma or Ohio State or Michigan. We might be able to compete with a USC or Texas or Auburn on the playing field, but we can't compete with them at the bank. We don't have a stadium like Penn State's and we don't have the deep pockets of Alabama. That's the facts. If Rodriguez is attempting to use this latest development (which I've heard is not a formal offer yet) as ammo for more money, he probably needs to move on.

West Virginia fans have already seen ticket prices sky rocket over the past few years. What used to be a family outing has turned into an event that many can no longer afford. The argument is that is what you pay for a "national" program but eventually you will price seats out of the range of fans who are paying for all these improvements and salaries. Once again, we're talking about West Virginia and, if you haven't noticed, the economy here isn't exactly a juggernaut. I honestly don't believe Pastilong will offer Rodriguez more money this year...regardless of him staying or going. And I think that's the right move.

Don't get me wrong, I hope Rodriguez continues as WVU coach for many years to come (even if he loses to Pitt). I don't believe he's leaving, even if he is given a formal offer by Michigan. But, if he does go to Big Blue, send our best to John Beilein and tell him he would have been better staying here too...

Baseball on Steroids

Well, the Mitchell report comes out within the next half hour or so...and let me be the first to say: "Who cares?" Personally, I don't at this point. Knowing who did or who didn't take steroids in the past is not going to fix baseball's problems. The damage has been done...you can't go back and fix the records that have been broken. You can't take a World Series away from a team that was guilty. You can't quantify in anyway which teams and players gained an advantage and which teams or players were at a disadvantage.

The names that are going to come out, whoever they may be, were or are guilty of using a performance-enhancing substance. Can we determine whether they were habitual user gaining an unfair advantage on the field or whether they were just a user who used on occassion to recover from an injury? Does it matter? And whom does it matter to?

Personally, I thought George Mitchell would take his investigation a different way. I no longer care about those who used...naming users just satisfies a bloodlust that some have. I wanted George Mitchell to direct us to the enablers who allowed baseball to fall into such dispair. When did the Commissioner first understand there was an issue? Did the GM's, owners, coaches, etc. know what was happening in the locker room?

Secondly, I had hoped Mitchell would expose additional ways to clean up the game that the Commissioner's Office had overlooked? How can we reasonably test for HGH? How can we move on with a clean and fair game?

I obviously haven't seen the report but it appears Mitchell was more concerned about exposing the actual users than evaluating the system and helping actually fix the problem. Of course, what should we expect from a man who has ties deep in the baseball hierarchy and sits on the Red Sox Board of Directors? With all the conflicts Mitchell has, he should have recused himself from the investigation. Of course a truly independent investigation may turn up things baseball wouldn't approve of...and who would want that?

Petrino Bolts NFL for College

Bobby Petrino left Louisville to coach the Atlanta Falcons. Shortly after taking the job, Michael Vick was suspended indefinitely (and since prosecuted) for his role in a dog fighting ring and backup quarterback Matt Schaub was traded, leaving Petrino a non-existent offense. In addition to those issues, some players on the Falcons roster let it be known they were not exactly fond of Petrino.

Fast forward to Monday -- Michael Vick is sentenced to 23 months of jail and the Falcons play on Monday Night Football. Several Falcons players wear shirts or patches showing their continued support for Michael Vick, against league rules. And, of course, the Falcons lose.

And Tuesday, Petrino bolts for Arkansas. I'm in the minority when I say good for Petrino. I would have gotten out of there as fast as I could too. Obviously, this is a team that is going no where soon and the fact so many on that team still stand behind the convicted Michael Vick prove that this team is never going to be successful with the personnel they have in place. Most of the players have made it known they aren't going to buy into Petrino's system and have shown somewhat open hostility towards him. Their refusal to put Vick in the past shows that this team is stuck in neutral, refusing to move on with a new system and longing for the days when Michael Vick was their mediocre quarterback who occassionaly made spectacular plays.

Petrino probably should have never left Louisville. Maybe he really thought he would be successful in the NFL -- but I think he's better suited for the college game. He's an offensive inovator and I think he will be successful with the Razorbacks. The people who are busy criticizing this decision to leave Atlanta are ignoring the obvious -- he had nothing to stay for.

Campaigns -- *yawn*

The New York Times today reports G.O.P. Voters Are Uninspired by Candidates. Really? Is that a surprise? Didn't I say that a couple months ago? Why do you think people were actually excited for Fred Thompson to join the race? They wanted someone they thought would bring energy to the party. But, instead of Thompson turning into Ronald Regan, he channeled the personality of the corpse formally known as Art Shell.

Mike Huckabee is surging because there's no better alternative. Republican voters are looking for someone with core values and a down-to-earth personality who can speak to them. Guiliani has major values flaws and Romney often comes across with a superior to thee personality. Huckabee seems like a real person with real values, even if wrong at times. I'm not going to vote Huckabee though...I think he has some serious issues in his past to deal with and I'm not sure he's really someone who can be elected. But he's someone different, which is why he's in the race.

On the other side of the forum, does Hilary Clinton inspire anyone? The NYT survey shows that most people are supporting Hilary out of love for her husband. Hilary has done nothing to show she deserves to be president. She talks about experience but her only real experience is at the feet of Bill. She wants to claim credit for being co-president during Willy's 8-years in office, but only wants credit for the good things and quickly shields herself during bad things. When asked about the pardons Bill made as governor or president, she is quick to point out that she wasn't the president and couldn't make those decisions. But when asked about economic prosperity during those times, she is quick to point out that she helped make decisions. You can't have it both ways. I really hope the American public is smart enough not to elect this banshee...

As for Obama, what has he done? The media wants to build him up as a threat to the inevitable Hilary nomination but, really, he is stagnant in the polls and, should he ever surpass Hilary, the Clinton war machine would gear up and take down the relative newbie. Even the biggest O of all can't save Obama from Hilary's "left wing attack machine". Obama's message doesn't resonate with voters in any way. I pay some attention to what is going on and I have no idea what Barrack is proposing other than his constant reminder that Hilary voted for the war. (Hey, Barrack, with things taking a positive turn in Iraq, that's not going to be a winning message...just wanted to let you know.)

Anyway, should be interesting from this point forward. The first votes will be soon and I would guess by March we should known the nominees. I think it's Rudy v. Hilary...and you want to talk about mud. Whew, boy...everyone in America better stock up on shovels 'cause it's gonna be gettin' deep around here.

Back to Work

Now that I'm back to work following my Boston trip and have had ample time to put the Mountaineers loss behind me, I will get back to updating this thing on a somewhat normal basis again for my 3 loyal readers. I'll start off today talking a little about television...

If you didn't realize it, the Hollywood writers are still on strike. Personally, I couldn't care less. But, that's the facts...reruns of Leno and Letterman and whatever other shows need writers. It doesn't really affect me because, as I have confessed before, I mostly watch sports, old sitcoms or stupid reality shows. And, today, I am going to encourage you to watch the dumbest reality shows on television. First, America's Most Smartest Model which is on VH1.

AMSM was really funny in the first episodes, playing on the stereotype of the dumb model. And some of these models were really, really dumb. And with Ben Stein in charge, you know it's going to be entertaining. It's down to the final two now, a Russian and a moronic American -- but I don't see this turning into Rocky IV. The show is at it's best when Stein is making everyone look stupid...at it's worst when they're, you know, modeling. It's probably worth watching...you can probably see every episode in order on a VH1 marathon...it seems everytime I flip around, I see it or...

I Love New York 2. Between this show and the model show, this one definitely wins. If you missed Flavor of Love or the original I Love New York, well, then you probably don't know New York. Obviously, she's looking for a stable man to settle down with and dominate. And what better place to find love than on a VH1 reality show. 20 or so eligible bachelors leave their normal lives and move into a big house all competing for the love of New York. And loving New York cannot be easy.

Of course, as with all shows like this, sparks fly. The guys fight with each other. There's even a physical confrontation or two. And New York and her mother do everything possible to keep the tensions high...that's good for TV. In the last episode, which may be my favorite, New York invites the 4 remaining contestants' parents to meet her and her mother. And things ignited...

A fight between New York's mother and a contestant named "The Entertainer's" mother broke out over dinner. Some of the highlights include: “You look like you wearin’ a beaver’s ass on your head,” “My husband’s ass looks better that you!” and “I don’t think I’m getting an apology from her or that transvestite!” With dialog like this, who needs the writer's strike to end?

Just like Model, I'm sure you can find a marathon of I Love New York on VH1 this weekend or over the course of the week. This is all they show these days...reality shows and Best of shows. And, hey, they're generally entertaining. I Love New York 2 is down to 3 contestants and will probably finish up next week along with the other show. Catch it...you'll be

Travel

I just flew back from Boston...and boy, are my arms tired. [ba dum cha] -- Thank you, thank you...I'll be here all week.

Anyway, I hate to travel. The trip to the airport, from the airport...the ticketing, the security line...waiting for the plane and hoping it's not delayed or cancelled. It's non-stop stress. Arriving at your destination, waiting for luggage, trying to find the rental car...ah, it's just too much. Especially when you are by yourself and can't rely on anyone else to help you figure this stuff out.

But I made it to and from Boston without incident. It was my first time there and I saw absolutely nothing. I arrived Sunday at 7:30 p.m. and left Wednesday at 5:45 p.m. following the completion of the course I was there for. Since it is dark at 4:30, I could see anything. On Monday night, I venture from Burlington (where I was staying), back into Boston to try to, ya know, see some sights. Well, it was pitch dark and I could find anything. I spent 20-minutes trying to find Fenway but never did. Having spent over $10.00 in tolls, I finally gave up and headed back to Burlington. On Tuesday, I decided not to even try and just went to the mall in Burlington for dinner.

It had snowed up there about the same as here. It was cold. Everyone wanted to talk about the Patriots. And a few wanted to talk about Boston College's loss to Virginia Tech. Didn't matter to me...I just didn't want to talk about West Virginia's loss. The class was, ummmm, interesting. The guy didn't really teach anything...he just had us work through exercises in a book. Some people in the class couldn't get their exercises done but he just moved on anyway. It was pretty odd.

Other than that, not much to report. I'm just glad I'm back in town and have my luggage. I was surprised by the amount of snow is on the ground here. Didn't really expect that. The roads from Pittsburgh to the West Virginia state line were pretty clear. The roads in West Virginia were icy and snowy...what a shock!

Lastly, how about that Mountaineer basketball team blowing out Auburn? I think they could win 20 games this season and go back to the NCAA tournament if the defense continues to play like that. Should be an interesting season.

Sometimes...

Sometimes it just goes that way. Just when you think you have it all figured out, everything changes. Just when you think you've conquered all your obstacles, another gets in your way. If you don't believe me, just ask the WVU football team.

It was all there for them. Number 1 in the BCS following a Missouri loss. A spot in the BCS Championship Game in New Orleans. And a lifetime of stories from fans who will forever remember your name for delivering them to the promised land. And then Pittsburgh steps in your way and completely alters your destiny.

Perhaps this is what one gets when they "count their eggs..." WVU fans were prepared to travel to New Orleans on January 7th. They were deciding who they would rather face: a Missouri team that would setup an unusual championship game or a Ohio State team that got burned a year ago by Florida and a fast offense. Pittsburgh was just a foregone conclusion. There was no way the Panthers could possibly stop one of the most prolific offenses in college football. And, even more to West Virginia's advantage, it was a Pitt team coached by a perinnial loser named Dave Wannstedt.

But then Pitt did the unexpected. They stopped one of the most prolific offenses in college football...repeatedly. West Virginia turned the ball over and missed field goal opportunities. The savior of so many games, Pat White, went down injured. The dynamic duo of Slaton and Devine couldn't get started. While the WVU defense played admirably, the WVU offense struggled to stay on the field. WVU mustered only 7-points. And those were courtesy of a stupid Pitt personal foul penalty. The Pitt offense ran the clock and kept the dangerous WVU offense off the field. WVU ran only 4 plays in the entire 3rd quarter.

The crowd? Stunned. Six years ago, WVU hosted Temple in Rich Rodriguez's first year as coach. It was a close game and Temple led 17-14 late in the game. But everyone pretty much believed WVU would score late and beat the hapless Owls. But it never happened and West Virginia lost to Temple. That was the last time I had felt a crowd with the same temperment as the crowd at Milan-Puskar this Saturday. Surely the Mountaineers would find a way to score late to win this game against the Panthers. But it never happened. Fourth-and-three, but we only get two yards when it matters most.

Pitt runs out the clock and the crowd slowly and silently exits Puskar Stadium. A smattering of boos and profanity ring out from some. Wandering aimlessly back to their cars, the fans are just wanting to get home. There are many cancelling hotel reservations as I type this. Others are pondering what they are going to do with those non-refundable plane tickets. They had to make arrangements for that title game because Pitt was just a foregone conclusion.

The 100th edition of the Backyard Brawl was definitely a memorable one. It could go down as the most sour loss in Mountaineer history. On the cusp of history only to be held to 9-points by Dave Wannstedt and his losing team. West Virginia will still play in a BCS bowl despite the loss but it won't be for a national title...even if Pitt was just a foregone conclusion.

A Year Ago...

One year ago, Greg Hunter of West Virginia Metronews broke a story that Rich Rodriguez had accepted a deal to go to Alabama. Hunter took some words from Pat Forde and speculated that Rod was ready to accept the offer and had actually been talking about which staff he would take with him to the Tide. Hunter went on to discuss coaching prospects.

The story set off a firestorm throughout Mountaineer country. Rodriguez was silent on the subject. Forde said MetroNews and Greg Hunter are "morons" and have a comprehension problem. And fans around the state took sides, either trashing Rodriguez or hoping that the stories were incorrect. For the next week, WVU endured ESPN, CBS and several media outlets in Alabama reporting the deal was done and Alabama officials were ready to pay Rodriguez's buyout clause. News couldn't come fast enough...and Rodriguez remained silent. And then, it was over. Rod stayed, Alabama was embarrassed and went after another West Virginia native in Nick Saban.

One year has passed and both West Virginia and Rich Rodriguez have reaped the benefits of his decision. West Virginia is one win away from playing for a national championship for only the second time in the history of the program. Rodriguez, whose image was damaged a bit in the debacle up north, has seen his stock rise on a national level and, if they beat Pitt tonight, will be in rare company as a Mountaineer coach (not that he wasn't already). Rodriguez could be stuck in Alabama where he would already be a pariah for the season Saban led them to this year...instead, he's a legend in Morgantown.

West Virginia fans were also fortunate throughout the ordeal. Number one, it did show them that coaches do leave successful programs (such as Les Miles leaving LSU for Michigan). Number two, it prepared them for John Beilein's leap just a few months later and set West Virginia up to go after a bigger fish in Bobby Huggins.

It was quite an ordeal one year ago...thankfully it looks like we won't go through the same this year. But, if we do, at least we're a little more prepared. All those years of Nehlen and Catlett had given us false security. Coaches move...it's life. Rodriguez is most likely here for a few more years...and we're pretty safe with Huggins for now. And if Rod decides to move on -- well, if there's a BCS Championship Trophy on the shelf, I think we'll get over it.

Just a Couple WVU Things

Thanks to Brian and John for the next couple articles:

Credit Mike Casazza of the Charleston Daily Mail:

Twas the night before Pittsburgh, when all through my mind,
Were visions of couch burnings, both yours and mine.
Firemen were resting and acting quite lazy,
But they knew that things were about to get crazy.

The players were nestled, Markell did his dreds,
While visions of Bourbon Street danced in their heads.
There were Quinton’s gold teeth, Larry’s son in his lap,
While the quarterback made noises to sound like a cat.

When down in the end zone there arose such a noise,
They sprang from their homes and called all their boys.
To the field they flew, fast as Devine,
Making sure to pick up the offensive line.

The invaders had arrived at the stadium early,
These Panthers were looking noticeably surly.
There was a point to this late-night trip through the hills,
They were out on the field doing defensive drills.

With a dapper old coach who combed his mustache,
You knew in a moment it must be Wannstedt.
He’d made his name as a defensive master,
And he whistled and shouted for them to run faster!

“Watch Slaton! Watch Schmitt! Watch Reynaud and White!
Watch option! Watch bubble! Could be a rough night!
Let’s stand at the goal line and build a big wall,
And keep them from their shot to play for it all!”

As they began to believe his bold rally cry,
There was a flash and a pop up high in the sky.
They reacted the same, with a quick double take,
What they saw made them stop in their cleats and quake.

On the top of the stadium a man made his stand,
As he calmly adjusted his Nike wristbands.
He said “My name’s Rich, as you surely know,”
Then ran down the bleachers with Mountaineers in tow.

They were dressed all in gold, from their heads to their feet,
And they looked like they’d win a 12-team track meet.
A bundle of plays he had in his book,
And there was no mistaking that confident look.

Pitt’s eyes, how they widened! Their hearts, how they pounded!
All for the biggest game since this brawl was founded.
One side had momentum, the other desperation,
This battle wouldn’t wait for the eyes of the nation!

Caridi was roused from a much-needed sleep,
So were Hickman and Hertzel, the last with a bleep.
They brought their pens, paper and elaborate prose,
To witness this battle of bitter old foes.

It was dark and cold, your breath you could see,
But that didn’t stop the kickoff of Pat McAfee.
The tackle, of course, came from an old Hawk named Emery,
And so started this game that would soon be a memory.

They spoke so few words as they went to work,
But score after score drove the visitors berserk.
The Mountaineers rolled, as was expected,
While the Panthers backed off, clearly dejected.

There was a Gatorade shower that gave poor Rich shivers,
While no one seemed happier than one Vaughn Rivers.
They exclaimed after singing about Almost Heaven,
“Well see you in New Orleans on January 7.”


Subject: Article in Hartford newspaper
Football: Mountaineer Field Is Full And Rocking
November 25, 2007

Chilling is the best way to describe the post game experience Saturday evening at Mountaineer Field in Morgantown, W.V. after UConns 66-21 loss in the game that decided the Big East championship. Chilling in more ways than one.

The experience on the field immediately following the game sent chills down my spine. And then there was the freeze out in the interview room following with UConn coach Randy Edsall.

First, about what happened on the field. There were never any explicit directions offered as to how the media was supposed to make their way down to field level at the end of the game and by the time I had sent my early early story for Courant.com most other media members had already cleared out of the press box and made their way down behind the end zone near the visiting team tunnel on the field.

So John Silver from the Manchester Journal Inquirer and I departed the press box in search of the secret way to field level. Lets just say that after about 100 "excuse mes" as we waded through fans in the stands we found our way to the Mountaineer Field turf just as the
game came to an end.

It was there standing on the field that I experienced something amazing. I knew things were different in Morgantown before the game when the place was 95 percent full 15 minutes before kickoff. I knew this was truly the experience of big time college football.

But the post game just solidified that fact even more.

No matter how hokie one might think John Denvers "Country Roads" might be, it was just absolutely amazing to stand on that field and listen to a stadium that size recite the song in unison. There we were, the game over, and there had to still be 50,000 people who
werent going anywhere.

On Nov. 17 there wasnt even reason for UConn players to take a victory lap at Rentschler Field after beating Syracuse to finish off a perfect 7-0 home record this season. There was virtually nobody left in Rentschler by the time the game was over.

And yet here there were more then 50,000 fans who stuck around not only until the end, but long after the end of a game that was basically over midway through the third quarter Saturday in Morgantown.

This was what big time college football is about.

Simply, it was a stunning experience like no other Ive seen in two years covering the UConn football team.

Shawn Courchesne, 3:57 a.m. from the Hartford Courant

A Look Back...

With West Virginia on the cusp of playing for a national championship, it seems like a good time to look back nearly 20 years to the only other time in WVU football history that they've played for such high stakes. The similarities between the 1988 Fiesta Bowl Mountaineers and the 2007 Mountaineers are striking...and, obviously, they start at quarterback.

Major Harris is, arguably, the greatest, or at least stated as the greatest, quarterback in Mountaineer history. In his 3 years, Major accounted for 7,334 total yards of offense. With two games left to play this year, Pat White has 7,293 total yards of offense. Major's total rushing yards for 3-years totalled 2,161 yards. Pat White has 3,315 rushing yards through his first 3-years (with 2 games to play). That obviously gives Major the passing yards lead over Pat -- Harris went 324-for-586 for 5,173 yards and 41 touchdowns. White is 312-for-480 (better percentage) for 3,981 yards and 33 touchdowns.

It's easy to see the stats and say that Pat White will clearly surpass Major Harris in numbers. But you have to remember that Major Harris helped change the game of football. Most people had never seen a quarterback run the way Major Harris could run the ball. And the guy could pass too, evidenced by his 5000+ yards in the air. Major changed quarterbacks forever. And Pat White is invoking his memory with some of the explosive runs we see. Pat White comes into a world where the quarterback is expected to be able to move and make plays. Major Harris helped shape that world.

I'll continue to look back on that 1988 teams as the next few weeks unfold (if we beat Pittsburgh, that is) and we'll look at the amazing receivers Major threw too and the defense that gave West Virginia one of the most memorable victories in Mountaineer history.

I Encourage...

Everyone to head over to CBS Sportsline and let Mike Freeman and CBS know what you think of his article: Give me Trojans-Buckeyes over a Missouri-West Virginia snoozefest. I could get over Freeman's idiotic article if it weren't for this paragraph:

"The West Virginia mascot is the Mountaineer. He carries a rifle and wears a coonskin hat. Why not go for the stereotype trifurcate, Mountaineer dude, and date your sister?"

Once again, it shows the ignorance of these so-called "national" reporters. The basis that no one is going to watch Mizzou-WVU is completely false. As people watch the Super Bowl regardless of who plays, people will watch WVU/Mizzou because that is what is on. It may not be the most glamorous matchup in the world but it is a matchup between two teams that deserve to be playing (assuming WVU and Missouri win out).

Articles like Freeman's are uninformed and bias towards an establishment in college football that has been shaken by the emergence of non-traditional programs like West Virginia, Kansas, Louisville, Missouri, etc. So because they don't have the tradition of a USC or Ohio State, Oklahoma or Nebraska, Michigan or Notre Dame, doesn't make them any less worthy of a shot at college football's most prestigious trophy.

Remember, programs have to start somewhere...Florida State hasn't always been a powerhouse. Boston College is a joke of a program but everyone was willing to jump on their bandwagon just because they had a good half-season. Virginia Tech hasn't won a national championship but they are more worthy for some reason? West Virginia is as deserving as any team in the nation to play for a national championship...and anyone who argues otherwise simply on the basis of tradition shouldn't be writing for something like CBS.

Against, I encourage everyone who agrees to go to CBS Sportsline and let them know what you think of Mike Freeman. He should be writing this blog and I should be writing for CBS, in my opinion.

To Go Or Not To Go...

That is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler to attend a game with
The cheers and jeers of outstanding fortune,
Or to take seat in a chair of comfort,
By a television with Fox? To watch: to eat;
Much more; and by eat to say we feed
The enthusiam of thousands of fans
In their blue and gold, watching and waiting
Waiting and watching, their team take the field
Oh, Mountaineers, why such difficult decisions?

I'll stop there...I have real work to do. So, let's just say for a minute that West Virginia beats Pitt and is selected to attend the National Title Game in New Orleans on Monday, January 7th. What a dilemma that presents. Do you attend the game and take 2-3 days off work in hopes of attending a historic event? Do you spend $175 for one ticket plus travel, hotel, etc., in hopes that West Virginia will no longer be the winningest program in college football without a national title? Or do you stay in town and watch the game on television and miss a major event for this area? I really don't know...I guess I'll wait to see if they actually beat Pitt...

A SOLID #2

Not only is West Virginia #2 in the BCS standing - they are a SOLID #2. The BCS rankings have us .06 points ahead of Ohio State...which might not sound like a lot but in the BCS world, it's plenty. Even if Pittsburgh makes it a close game with WVU, as long as West Virginia wins, there is nearly no way tOSU can jump over the Mountaineers. Being #1 in the Coaches Poll is nice...

Even more interesting is the respect the BCS computers are giving the Mountaineers. Out of the 6 computer polls that are equated into the BCS, 2 have WVU at #1 and the other 4 have WVU at #2. So even with people out there knocking the Big East (again) and talking about WVU's weak schedule (again), the computers have enough respect for the Mountaineers to keep them solidly in the Top 2 in the nation. On the other hand, one computer does have Mizzou rated #3 behind WVU and OSU. Not saying that means anything...just stating the facts.

Lastly, just talking a bit about strength of schedule: According to CBS, WVU has played the 58th toughest schedule. Let's look at some others, Arizona State - 57, USC -81, Virginia - 71, Kansas - 88, Hawaii - 120, Boise State - 119, Ohio State - 37, Missouri -40. In a year with so many upsets, is a 58th ranked schedule that much different that a 40? Granted, if Mizzou defeats Oklahoma (66th toughest schedule, btw), they deserve to be #1 heading into the BCS Championship. But I don't see any argument to keep WVU out of the #1 or #2 spot. Lastly, WVU has defeated the following bowl eligible teams: Maryland, East Carolina, Mississippi State, Rutgers, Cincinnati and Connecticut. By comparison, Ohio State defeated Purdue, Northwestern, Michigan State, Penn State, Wisconsin and Michigan. Please note the number of out-of-conference opponents they played that are bowl eligible. ZERO.

Yes, I Saw...

Yes, West Virginia defeated UConn. Yes, they did so in dominating fashion. Yes, they put out their argument for #1 and a shot at a BCS title. I know, they put up 66 points against one of the "best" defenses in the Big East. Alright, I saw Pat White run all over them (I also saw him continue to throw the ball high to his receivers, but I digress). I saw it all...and I heard the excitement. I know, I know...but...

There's another freakin' game before the bowl season begins. WVU still has to play the hapless Pitt Panthers at Milan Puskar Stadium for the 100th Backyard Brawl. And if you think the Wannstaches are going to come into Morgantown and roll over, you haven't been paying attention. Yes, WVU controls its fate...win and you're playing on January 7th. But I would wait on the reservations one more week and make sure this is a secure, done deal. There have been a lot of Top 5 teams looking to punch that ticket to New Orleans. None of done so...yet.

In the meantime, remember that "giving the business" in college football is a 15-yard penalty:



Same with the NFL:

Line 'Em Up

Let's start with East Fairmont -- what a game. What a disappointing outcome. So close yet so far. A bobbled snap on an extra point attempt proves to be the dagger that killed the Bees as they searched for those elusive extra points. Unlike what most predicted, this game did not turn into Saint Albans lifting the Bees and pushing them down the field. The Bee defense was nothing less than spectacular, holding the Red Dragons to only 14 points. The Bee offense had opportunities but couldn't execute when the game was on the line.

It was a historic run. And it was a lot of fun to travel to the southern part of the state and see some football down there. I can say that Saint Albans and Hurricane have some of the more vocal crowds I have seen for football games. I hate to say it but the St. Alban's fans put the East fans to shame with their noise and enthusiasm. Regardless, East Fairmont came 2-yards short from making one of the most unlikely runs in high school football. But I don't think Bees' fans have anything to complain about.

On another note, West Virginia now controls its own destiny as far as a shot at a BCS Championship. Now let the nay-sayers line up. Watching GameDay this morning, they're already looking for reasons that Ohio State could jump over us for the #2 spot. They want Georgia, they want USC, they want anyone BUT the Mountaineers. There is a non-stop assault on WVU from talking heads that is just unbelievable. West Virginia has maintained their position while OSU, LSU, USF, USC, OU, ASU, UO, etc., all folded under the pressure of being in the spotlight. If West Virginia wins their last two games, Lee, Kirk & Chris need to shutup about other deserving teams and give WVU the respect they have earned. Otherwise, they continue to prove that their show is simply a vehicle for ESPN to massage the egos of the so-called national powerhouses.

And, lastly, some inspiration from Lou:

Football Predictions

It's Turkey Day -- and also a good day to make some football predictions. Instead of wasting time, let's just get down to it:

University 27 - Parkersburg 24 - This game has turned into more of a battle between the MSAC and the NCAC than University and Parkersburg. University finds a way to continue on. I was surprised they were able to win last week...I won't pick against them this week.

USC 42 - Arizona State 28 - Arizona State could put forth a claim to play in the BCS Championship Game if they win out. But a down USC team will put an end to ASU's dreams this week. Call it the Pete Carroll Factor.

Missouri 0 - Kansas 17 - Mark Magino eats the Tigers before the game begins. Not nice...but watch out.

Arkansas 27 - LSU 20 - LSU has bluffed their ways through several games this season. Watch for the Razorbacks to play loose in this one and end LSU's hopes for the BCS game.

And now, without further hesitation, the two games I will attend this weekend:

WVU 42 - UConn 17 - Time for West Virginia to have a break out game. And it couldn't come at a better time. WVU clinches the Big East Title, a BCS berth and a probable shot at a national title (if LSU loses).

East Fairmont 31 - St. Albans 20 - Why not? East Fairmont's offense hasn't been strong the past few games but look for L.T. and the boys to open it up against St. Albans. Sure, it's going to be in the mud down there but mud slows down both sides. The East defense has been nothing short of remarkable lately. If this game is within reach at halftime, look for East to turn it up in the 4th quarter again and lead to parade of fans to Wheeling Island Stadium for a rematch to avenge their 13-14 loss to University.

Plain Ol' Entertaining...

Mike Vick Turns Himself In Early

Ending one of the most spectacular falls from grace ever, Michael Vick turned himself into authorities early to begin serving his sentence for being involved in a dogfighting ring. Vick hasn't been sentenced yet but it appears that 12 to 18 months will be the time he serves. He could be sentenced up to 5 years but that's pretty unlikely since he plead guilty.

It is very, very unlikely that Vick will ever play football in the NFL again. I don't see any instance where Roger Goodell will let him back in the league. And, even if he were allowed to return, is there an owner out there willing to take a chance on an average quarterback who would be mercilessly hounded by fans both at home and on the road. And what a P.R. nightmare. So, here's to the end of the Mike Vick saga...may we never hear of it again.

On a related note, the picture I made of Mike Vick kinda kicking a dog has made the rounds on the Internet. I checked stats the other day just to see if I had any traffic on the one of the web domains I own and this one picture has over 69,000 hits. I tracked it to message boards of several NFL teams. A writer on Fox used it a few times. It appeared on ebay numerous times. It made the rounds on comments on MySpace sites multiple times. I was truly amazed because I didn't think it was that well done. And then, I did a Google image search for "Mike Vick" and found that it was the 5th picture on the search. Hmmmm...just thought that was interesting. In case you don't remember...he's the picture that has been viewed several thousands times on web-sites near and wide...

So, for whatever that is worth...I guess it's kinda cool but I didn't get any credit from anyone and they're all trying to eat my bandwidth...so, that's not cool. But as long as no one tracks me down and beats me up, I'll just take it as flattery...

A Trip to Cincinnati

Well, left for Cincinnati around 10:30 on Saturday...a little behind schedule. We ended up even more behind schedule after a stop at Dick's and Krogers. But, for the most part we were in good shape on the trip out. Unfortunately, one of the ramps we needed to take was closed so we decided it was a good time to stop and get gas. We may have ended up in a little bit of a bad neighborhood then. Even though I need a haircut, we decided not to stop...

After arriving in Cincinnati and checking into the hotel (which was under a little renovation), we headed off to Nippert Stadium. Parking was already pretty hectic by 5:30 p.m. We ate some Country Club pepperoni rolls and headed onto the campus of the University of Cincinnati. One of the stops was at Fifth Third Arena, which was open to the public.

The crowd was pretty thick heading into Nippert despite the fact it only holds 35,000. Saw as many fans wearing blue and gold as red and black. I would say that Mountaineer fans made up at least 35% of the attendance. After a pretty boring pregame, Cincinnati and West Virginia took the field.

We were in Row 10 in the Mountaineer crowd. The Mountaineer fans were spread out throughout the stadium. The cheerleaders attempted to get the "Lets Go Mountaineers" chant going several times but it was impossible. So everyone gave up and just cheered.

For the most part, the Mountaineer fans were pretty calm. Except for one dude named Joe Bob who sat behind us. He started cussing before the teams even took the field. An older gentleman asked him to stop because of some of the younger kids around and he stopped for a little while. But he lit back up later. He was either drunk, stupid, lost or a combination of all of the above. Some of his comment highlights include: "Go back to Cincinnati," "Go back to Lexington," and "Rich Rodriguez (put your own expletives here...)"

Thank goodness for this Steve Slaton run for a touchdown, otherwise we would have lost. Another bad second half...

The Mountaineers came over to celebrate with their vocal fans following the game. Had they blown the lead and lost, I have a feeling they would have been running from this vocal crowd...

After a few minutes, Cincinnati security disappeared and Mountaineer fans took over Nippert Stadium and did their best to disgrace the losing Cincinnati Bearcats...

One of the cooler things about going down on the field after the game is getting to see the ESPN over-field camera taken down. That thing is a beast.

This girl stole a sword from whatever that this is on the right. Maybe he was lost too...I don't see where that costume works with "Bearcats," but whatever. After about 10 minutes of chasing her around, some event security finally stopped her and returned his sword to him. How disgraceful...

And, just for fun, instead of leaving the stadium like the common folk, we decided a tunnel exit would be more apt for the victorious Mountaineer fans...

You would think that there would be somewhere to eat in Cincinnati after midnight. Well, you would think wrong. After stopping at several exits for food, we ended up at a White Castle. Not good food at all. Of course, someone has to order the 10-burger special...

And, despite objections, eat it.

Believe me, that was not a fun trip back to the hotel after someone ate that many White Castle sliders. There is no way that if beef on thos buns. I ordered the chicken nuggets and I truly do not believe that was really chicken either. The fries were barely edible.

That was really about it for the Cincinnati trip. Lots of fun and excitement. WVU won which makes the trip far better. Just two things to keep in mind: 1) Don't eat at White Castle and 2)

The sign says it all...

Just a quick update

Just a quick recap of the weekend and I'll get the full update up when I actually have some time...

Went down to Charleston on Friday night for a great football game. East Fairmont has advanced yet again with an unbelievable defensive effort. They now are just one win away from going to Wheeling Island Stadium for the State Championship Game. Regardless of what happens against St. Albans, it's been a remarkable year. Additionally, apparently not many people in the Charleston area have had a chance to see the band. I'll let this entry from the Daily Mail sum that up.

Got back to Fairmont at 2:00 or so on Saturday morning and did some work and finally got to sleep at 3:00. Woke up at 8:00 and began a trek out to Cincinnati to see the Mountaineers face the Bearcats. I will go in more detail later but the game was good and WVU eeked out the victory. I would guess 35% of Nippert Stadium was wearing blue and gold. That might be a little high but there were a ton of Mountaineer fans. Got back to hotel around 2:00 and woke up again around 8:00 to make the long journey back to Fairmont. I'll get pictures and stuff up tonight.

With Oregon's and Oklahoma's losses, West Virginia moved up to #3 in the BCS. This is getting exciting. Now, I'm just speculating, but I think that if WVU wins out and Missouri wins out, there's a very good chance Missouri will jump over WVU and take the #2 spot (Missouri would have to beat Kansas to win out.) If Oklahoma wins the Big 12 (meaning Missouri and Kansas lost), there's a good chance WVU could be #2 but there's going to be a large movement to move Arizona State back up to #2 if they win the Pac 10. If ASU loses, expect to hear a lot of crying from Columbus because Ohio State will want that #2 spot back.

Personally, I'm hoping Kansas wins out and LSU loses somewhere and WVU plays Kansas for the National Championship. There's way too much football left to get too concerned about it. No matter how it works out, someone's going to be unhappy. All I know is that WVU had better start playing better football. Allowing Cincinnati back in that game late was pretty disheartening. If they don't step it up, they could easily lose to UConn or Pitt. If they don't, things will get very interesting for the BCS folks. Expect a lot of people out there talking bad about WVU and the Big East...

Football Predictions

Oh, it's Thursday again already...time for a few predictions for the biggest football contests ever. Or at least this week...

Bridgeport 14 - Parkersburg 42 - Did you hear the one about the team that went into Parkersburg with their top 3 players injured? They got beat. Bad.

Capital 21 - University 20 - University beat Morgantown twice this year. I think they've probably already accomplished their goal for the season.

Georgia 35 - Kentucky 21 - Kentucky is not for real.

UConn 56 - Syracuse 20 - Syracuse is real. Real, real bad.

Michigan 35 - Ohio State 17 - How fitting would it be for Lloyd Carr to lose to Appy State to start the season and beat Ohio State to end the season? He'll likely retire on Monday. A loss here probably knocks OSU from the Championship Game 2 weeks ago to the Outback Bowl this week. Personally, I think the Big 10 is week regardless of who goes where.

Steelers 34 - Jets 13 - The Jets are very, very bad this year.

And, the final two:

WVU 31 - Cincinnati 28 - Another nail-biter. WVU could easily lose this game on the road. Especially if they continue to play hot potato with the football. Watch out for those Bearcats.

EF 16 - GW 12 - I don't know why. I don't necessarily want to pick against East Fairmont. It's going to be a tough game to win but a good break here and there and they could pull this thing off. If the Bees defense really can hold GW to 12 points, I would be amazed. But stranger things have happened...

Planting Questions

Well, the big uproar now is that Hillary (or Hillary's campaign) has been planting questions in the audience for her to answer during these open forums. I'm surprised that it's not done more...these candidates have all these great answers but they need the question to answer them. The other problem with Hillary is her ability to ramble on and on but never really answer the questions. On a completely unrelated note, I will answer a few questions I have rec'd via e-mail.

Q. Mike, you have a strong stance on global warming. Do you really believe that it is something we can't fix?

A. Thank you for that question. Everywhere I go, people ask me about this issue. And while I have strong opinions on this issue I believe we need to work together for a solution we can all agree on. If I were elected President, I would pull all sides together to work on figuring out a way to solve this problem.

Q. Do you believe the BCS is the best thing for college football?

A. Wow, I can't believe you asked that. It seems like more and more people have been bringing up this topic and there is a lot of passion on both sides of the issue. If I were in charge, I would definitely be looking for ways to make the system work for everyone. Fairness is one of the things I care the most about and I want to come up with a solution that is fair to everyone involved. Thank you for asking.

Q. Gas prices continue to rise. What can we do?

A. This is a great concern to everyone these days. Everywhere I go people want to know how they can help with this issue. We have to understand that everyone has to work together to solve this problem. I believe that if we can all work together, there is nothing we can't overcome. I will take one last question today...yes, you -- the guy I have never talked to before and have never met before today. Please ask your question...

Q. Have you heard from anyone interesting lately?

A. What a random question. How did you ever come up with that? But I am glad you asked because it just so happens that I did. I received a comment from none other than Rutgers own DJ Yoshi. If you want, take a moment to visit his Myspace -- www.myspace.com/djyoshi. Seems like a pretty good guy who does a lot of work in the NY/NJ area. Other than that, no...haven't heard from anyone. Thanks for asking.

That's all the time I have for today. I will be happy to answer more questions after I have time to write them up...

The Jubilation of a Faltering Economy

The headlines ring out with glee - bankruptcy, debt, foreclosure. The talking heads speak of slowing growth, increasing debt, higher oil and lower dollar. And they do so with great enthusiasm. Welcome to the American media.


For 5 years now, the media has spoken of the troubled American economy. They constantly talk of recession as though we were in the middle of one. They speak of the increased crunch high oil and gas has put on the end-consumer. And through it all the American economy has soared and the stock market has risen to record highs.


But the media may finally get their wish. High consumer debt, increasing pump prices and a housing market ripple may finally give the mass media what they have been hoping for many years: a stagnant economy. They will cling to any numbers that show any decreases in economic activity and rush to call it a recession. They can barely keep themselves from using the R-word now. They want to so bad, it's actually hurting. And, by playing their fear-mongering game, they accomplish another task by huring consumer confidence further increasing the chances of a full-fledge recession.


Personally, I do see a rough economic patch coming. Increased energy costs, high consumer debt, record low savings and decreased credit opportunities will slow growth. And the media will be sure to add another element by continually attempting to erode confidence in a quick rebound. But I think there will be a quick rebound. The American economy continues to roar. Unemployment remains very low and, despite the record low of the dollar, consumer buying power remains high. Exports will increase due to the low dollar and that will begin the rebound. The housing market may suffer for a couple years but the ship will right and all will be fine. But don't count on the media to recognize the good signs until they are impossible to ignore...

Random Things

Just a few random things...nothing major:

• East Fairmont defeated Hurricane and will now advance to the second round of the state playoffs for the first time ever. It may hurt my Cincy plans...may not. Rumor has it that the game will be Friday night, which means I can still go to Cincinnati. Find out later today.
• Ohio State lost to Illinois. Are you kidding me? Ron Zook defeated Jim Tressler? Zook is as bad as Wannstache when it come to coaching. That just amazes me. Parity in college football, I guess.
• I usually like underdogs to win. However, these teams I truly dislike regardless of their rank and I hope they never win a game regardless of the opponent: Notre Dame. Hawaii. Boston College. Virginia Tech. Wisconsin. USC.
• How funny is it that Miami closed the "O.B." with their worst home-loss ever?
• OJ Simpson is an idiot. You would think that if you got away with something like he did, you would just kinda disappear and hope people forgot about you. Not break in somewhere with guns blazing.
• O.J. Mayo scored 32-points and USC still lost to Mercer. I'm not unpleased with that result.
• Bobby Huggins is already drawing attention for this recruiting at WVU. And it's actually not bad attention.

I think that's all I have for now. Hope for a Friday night playoff game for me...thanks.

Spitting Incident?

It hasn't erupted yet...but I guarantee there's going to be some long-term ramifications to Pat White's claim that a Louisville player spit in his face during the game Thursday night. You can read about it on AOL Fanhouse: Spitting Spat Erupts...

and, of coures, there's video of the moment:

Personally, I don't see any reason Pat White would lie about such a thing. On the other hand, the Louisville player and the Louisville coach would have ample reason to lie about an ugly incident like that. Pat White has always been a standup player and I doubt he's making this up. The guy doesn't need any extra attention. If it's true, Kragthorpe should apologize to Pat White and discipline the player. Unless this is the type of reputation Louisville wants. (Virginia Tech, anyone?)

Gold Rush

Well, despite their best efforts at a South Florida repeat, West Virginia managed to win last night against Louisville. Pat White showed, at times, why he should be a Heisman candidate. At other times, he was fumbling the ball. But, at the end of the day, White, once again, put the Mountaineer team on his back and led them to victory. Overall, a pretty darn good game. Just a few notes:

• Gold Rush? Eh. People tried really hard...you could tell. I think they had maybe 75% participation from what I could see. The problem is that yellow is not a color that most people buy their jackets in...white, black, blue...all acceptable. Yellow is tough. But people did make an effort.
• Goodyear Blimp. Hey...it was a blimp. I honestly can't remember seeing the blimp at a Mountaineer game before. It's possible it's been there...but I don't remember it.
• A few hundred Cardinals fans came to the game. They were pretty quiet until Louisville tied the game. And the crowd died and they came to life suddenly. But, they got pretty quiet again after the Pat White run.
• I hate to blame a bad game on officiating. But 11 penalties for 116 yards is odd. Many were no-brainers (like the pass interference in the endzone) but some were questionable (like the hold 20-yards away from the play). And the amount of reviews in the game was ridiculous. I'm not sure we got the best Big East officiating crew available.
• The uniforms were as ugly as I could have imagined them being.
• Steve Slaton is in a slump. He seems a little slow and is having trouble finding holes to run through. You can blame the opposing teams and say they are keying on him...but I'm not sure that's the only thing wrong.
• Night games in Morgantown are truly awesome.
• Even is the defense did give up over 300-yards in the air, they still won that game. Brohm has picked apart defenses all year and I thought WVU's held in there pretty darn well...especially when the offense kept giving it back to them.
• Pat McAfee is a heck of a kick. Owen Schmitt should stick to blocking and running.

Cincinnati's next. It doesn't get any easier really. UConn and then the famous Wannstaches from up north to finish the season. If they win out, another Big East title and an automatic BCS-berth is their reward. We'll see...

Football Predictions

Well, it's apparently another Thursday and someone told me there was a football game in Morgantown this evening. I guess the Mountaineers, who have acquired "gold" jerseys (that are in questionable taste), are going to combine their "gold" jerseys with their "gold" pants making, I would assume, a horrendous combination. I sense many tears tonight when the Mountaineers take the field, brought up by the ungodly jersey combination. We'll see...

And now, some predictions:

WVU 41 - Louisville 27: Despite the hideous uniform decision, the "gold rush" will overcome the defenseless Cardinals. It would be nice to see the Mountaineer defense give Brohm some headaches this evening.

Morgantown 27 - University 14: Hey, University is the better team. But history says that Morgantown somehow breaks University's spirit and knocks them out of the playoffs despite probably being the one of the best teams in state.

Martinsburg 28 - Bridgeport 17: I don't think Bridgeport is great. Good, yes...but great, no. Martinsburg blew one at the end of the season...they should probably be the #1 seed and not 11. Poor Bridgeport.

Cincinnat 28 - Connecticut 20: I think UConn is running on borrowed time. They've had a good season but it ends at Cincinnati.

Steelers 31 - Browns 13: Pittsburgh played beastly on Monday night. I don't see the Browns giving them a big contest this weekend.

And, lastly:

East Fairmont 37 - Hurricane 27: I don't know much about Hurricane. I do know East Fairmont is a pretty good football team. East Fairmont has never won a playoff game. That changes this weekend for two reason: 1) East Fairmont really, really needs to win a playoff game; and 2) I'm supposed to go to the Cincinnati game next weekend and the Bees will win and end up playing George Washington in Charleston next weekend, effectively ruining my plans.

Those are my predictions for this weekend's football contests...

Funny, funny stuff...

This is very humorous (and one of the few times I support Bret Favre):

Saga of a Status Bar

Today, I bring you a touching video...full of drama and action. We have all been there...enjoy:

A March of Hate

The indignities that Megan Williams was subjected to in Logan County are reprehensible. There could be no excuse or justification for the torture she was subjected to. No defense will ever allow the perpetrators of such offenses walk free. These scum of society will pay for their actions as they should.

With that said, I still cannot support the march that took place in Charleston this weekend under the guise of a march of Megan Williams. Dubbed a "National March Against Hate Crimes and Racism," it became yet another divisive tool of Milik Shabazz, the leader of the Black Lawyers for Justice and leader of the New Black Panther Party. The New Black Panther Party (NBBP) has done as much to plant the seeds of hate and racism as any other group in the United States, including the KKK and white supremecy groups.

Among the NBBP's highlights include the conspiracy that 4,000 Israeli's who worked at the World Trade Center were warned ahead of the 9/11 attacks and called in sick on the day of the attack. There is no evidence of this even being remotely true.

The group provoked the melee that occurred outside of Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney's campaign headquarters after she lost a Democratic primary to her opponent, Hank Johnson. The NBBP's Chief of Staff physically attacked reporters, derogatorily calling them "Jews" and insisting that Hank Johnson was a "Tom." He further defended his actions on Fox News by accusing his interviewers of being part of a Zionist media complex.

In 2006, Shabazz was a main player in the Duke lacrosse team scandal, organizing marches outside of Duke University and making numerous media appearances demanding DA Nifong convict the accused players. Shabazz refuses to apologize for the comments and accusations he made even when they were found not to be true.

Malik Shabazz has done more to promote hate and racism in this country than most humans could even fathom, yet he disguises it as well-meaning events, such as the march he organized on Saturday. A march against hate and racism is a good thing...unless the leader is the source of much hate and racism himself.

East-West: Renewed

For over a decade, the East-West Game has been sustained on life support by mere history. Living off a rich tradition, the game was sustained but new chapters were hardly living up to the old tales. But the past couple years have breathed new life into the game and this year's overtime thriller may have brought the game back to life for the citizens of East and West Fairmont.

Since East Fairmont moved to the new school, West Side has essentially dominated the rivalry. There have been a few hot flashes, such as 1995 when West students spray-painted areas of the new EFHS and East students later responded in kind. Or the year that some Polar Bear supporters spray painted paw prints on the new athletic building at East-West Stadium or the year that Fairmont West students tore down the goal post at East-West following a routine victory. I'm sure other acts of petty vandalism has also occurred several times since but vandalism a rivalry does not make.

I think things changed for many people when East Fairmont moved to the new school. 1992 was the final year for an East-West Game at the old high school. They used to have the thuse for the game in the parking lot of the old school and hundreds of East Fairmont citizens from around the area would walk down to the old school and join in on the pep rally. In that final year at the old school, someone threw eggs from the woods behind the educational buildings into the crowd and several students chased after them through the woods. It fired everyone up and was invigorating to those in attendance.

Once we moved to the new high school, the crowd quickly diminished. No longer could East Side residents merely walk from their porches to the bonfire and pep rallies. Now they were required to drive to attend and the enthusiasm quickly died. Within the first couple years, the thuse and bonfire turned into yet another event that only the band, cheerleaders, football team and their parents attended. The past couple years have seen the thuse and bonfire cancelled completely and hardly anyone has taken notice.

Both schools participate in a spirit week which includes dress-up days and in-school thuses but that hardly gets the community enthralled in the game. But with last year's classic, many people felt this would actually be a good game on the field and they were hardly disappointed. A defensive struggle ensued in the first half with West taking a 14-0 halftime lead. But an 86-yard kickoff return in the second half put East back in the game. After tying the game at 14, both teams scored before going into overtime where East held defensively and scored on their first possession for the victory. Probably the best East-West Game I have seen in 16 years.

West Side entered the game with special music and a voice overdub regaling the crowd with stories of their past gridiron accomplishments, including two state football championships. But when the final whistle had sounded at East-West Stadium on Friday night, the West side crowd was taunted by the chant of "No More Playoffs." Perhaps West side won't write another chapter to their playoff tradition this year, but the rekindling of the East-West tradition could be just as important. Not just to West Side, but to Fairmont as a whole.

Football Predictions

Nothing too exciting this week on the college front but there are some good high school games with this being the final week for some teams to try to get to the playoffs. Other teams are just trying to end a 2-year losing streak. Here goes:

North Marion 12 - Preston 10. Yeah, I know...pretty gutsy predicting a North Marion victory but I think it's finally time to end that long, long losing streak.

RCB 31 - Wheeling Park 14. RCB is just way too good for WP.

Elkins 24 - Buck-Up 17. Ummm...Elkins wins.

Alabama 31 - LSU 28. My upset special this week. Nick Saban finds a way to beat the ol' Tigers. Luckily for Nick, this game is in Alabama and that will make the difference.

Oregon 38 - Arizona State 24. Oregon continues to move up in the polls. Do you really think the BCS Championship wants the Ducks and those ugly uniforms? ASU is knocked out of the national title hunt this weekend.

Steelers 24 - Ravens 16. Ray Ray won't be happy in Pittsburgh on Sunday when the Steelers beat up on him. The Steelers are just too good for Baltimore.

Lastly, the game of the week...

East Fairmont 38 - Fairmont Senior 27. East Fairmont's offense is clicking and West's defense has been porous towards the end of the season. East Fairmont has too many weapons for the Polar Bears to contain, I think. I've seen Fairmont Senior play 3 times this year and they have the potential to break some big plays but they have lacked consistency. Should be a good, high scoring game but East will knock West out of the playoffs and gain homefield advantage this year.

Hillary Begins Falling Apart

Up until now, Hillary was able to ride both sides of an issue without challenge. No one on the Democrat side was willing to challenge Hillary as she talked out both sides of her mouth. Well, that changed last night as her Democratic rivals ganged up on her during a two-hour debate. They finally put Clinton on the defense on a multitude of issues...but Hillary still wouldn't give any specifics in the debate, rather attempting to deflect every question towards the "failures" of George Bush.

Hillary became especially testy when prssed on whether she agrees with a proposal in New York to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. Clinton first supported the idea until Dodd objected and then she said she didn't think it wasa very good idea but that she understood what the governor was doing. In response, John Edwards said, "Unless I missed something, Senator Clinton said two different things in the course of about two minutes. America is looking for a president who will say the same thing, who will be consistent, who will be straight with them." Barack Obama added, "I can't tell whether she was for it or against it."

Sounds like the Democrats are going to use the GOP/John Kerry approach of painting Clinton as a "flip-flopper" who will say anything to be elected. And then the Democrats questioned Clinton's electability:

John Edwards - "Will she be the person who brings about the change in this country? You know, I believe in Santa Claus. I believe in the tooth fairy. But I don't think that's going to happen."

Barack Obama - "Part of the reason that Republicans, I think, are obsessed with you, Hillary, is because that's a fight they're very comfortable having."

Chris Dodd - "Whether it's fair or not, the fact of the matter is that my colleague from New York, Senator Clinton, there are 50 percent of the American public that say they're not going to vote for her."

It will be interesting to see how this plays out. Clinton clearly failed last night. While her opponents are attacking her and running a campaign against Hillary, Hillary is running against George Bush. Last time I checked, George Bush is not running for a third term.

Lastly, Dennis Kucinich admitted to seeing a UFO last night. The only surprise was that he didn't say he had been abducted...I can see Kucinich being abducted.