They're 8-0, and the home stretch is looking good.
Let's get into it.
Game 9: Oklahoma State 56, Kansas State 18. Uniform Prediction:White Helmet, Orange Jersey, White Pants.
After Kansas State hit the buzz-saw of Oklahoma last week, OSU will have added confidence. The Cowboy defense has been the scapegoat of the National Media for months now, yet they're still undefeated. That speaks volumes, although perhaps not as loud as holding Robert Griffin touchdown-less for three quarters. Cowboys roll.
Game 10: Oklahoma State 62, Texas Tech 21. Uniform Prediction: Black Helmet, White Jersey, Orange Pants
There won't be an OU-type of surprise in this game. Tech's offense is explosive, but after seeing Iowa State shut them down this past weekend I'm not a believer. I see Justin Blackmon have a 200+ yard game in Lubbock.
Game 11: Oklahoma State 48, Iowa State 10 Uniform Prediction: White Helmet, White Jerseys, Orange Pants
Iowa State played well against decent teams this year, and that was mostly due to their defense shutting down the opposing offense (Iowa, Texas A&M, Tech). I don't think they can match up with the speed and 'pick your poison' type of Oklahoma State offense though, and I'm expecting this to be a shalacking.
Game 12: Oklahoma State 51, Oklahoma 38 Uniform Prediction: Black Helmets, Black Jerseys, Black Pants.
I firmly believe that this is the year of the Cowboy. Everyone will pick OU in this game because of OSU's defense, but I believe they'll get it done just as they did against Baylor. OU is vulnerable, as shown by Texas Tech, and I think the mixture of Boone Pickens Stadium being a madhouse and Weeden dissecting that semi-weak secondary that Texas Tech played will result in a field-rushing, BCS National Championships berth. This is going to be a game like no other, and will be summed up with one word... Bedlam
My Top 10
1. Alabama
2. LSU
3. Oklahoma State
4. Boise State
5. Oklahoma
6. Oregon
7. Stanford
8. South Carolina
9. Clemson
10. Nebraska
Yes, my Top 10 doesn't include Arkansas. You'll see why in the next few weeks.
That's all I've got. Notice I didn't talk about any Dallas teams in this post. It's been a rough weekend.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
No Words Can Describe, But This Is My Best Effort
The boys of September have done it again.
Yes, I said it. The boys of September. You can figure that nickname out, I have faith.
Again, the Rangers pull out the heart's of their fan base, throw it on the ground (the pitch was called a ball in the process), and trot off into the sunset.
Last year, the Rangers were the feel good story of the year. No one expected a World Series team, and they somehow got past the Rays and Yankees to surprise the world before bowing out after just five games.
2011 was a different story. The Rangers were expected to be a playoff team, and expected to do well in them by their fan base.
They did well, until once again bowing out. This time, in the 9th inning of Game 6.
A good closer doesn't throw a pitch that can be hit 300+ feet, especially in a 2 strike count. Period. End of story.
I'm a Neftali Feliz fan, but what in the world were you thinking?
Whatever, we still have Game 7 right? Wrong.
I made an effort to not watch any ESPN or listen to anything but The Ticket radio station out of DFW all day because I knew they would rule the Rangers out.
But then again, everyone kept harping on "Well the Rangers haven't lost consecutive games in 46 contests!"
The Rangers also weren't in Busch Stadium against Chris Carpenter in any of those 46 games, so I wasn't sold.
I just didn't have a good feeling about it, and turns out I was right. They started out hot, but it turned into a game of Rangers walking to the plate, guessing, and turning around to head to the dugout.
I was confused by that. The Rangers took almost every first pitch, and almost every first pitch was a strike. Then they'd watch the next (Especially Elvis, every time), as a fastball sped right down the middle. Their at-bat would finish with them trying to dig a curve ball out of the dirt almost every time.
I've got to tip my hat to the Cardinals though. They showed up when they needed to show up. Chris Carpenter put the team on his back (Is that term overused yet?) and got it done in the biggest game of his life.
The Cardinals bullpen slammed the door closed, something the Rangers bullpen probably saw as foreign.
And even though this was the greatest season in Texas Ranger franchise history, I'm still not happy with it.
Last year was the year to GET THERE. I know I'm ready to WIN ONE, and I know the 300 other fans that showed up to games back in the mid-90's feel the same way.
I don't mind the bandwagon fans, I wrote a post on that last October.
But I am proud to say that my parents raised me as a Ranger fan from birth. As I put on twitter earlier, I even named my hamsters I got in kindergarten after my two favorite Rangers -- Pudge and Juan (who we later found out was Juanita...)
So yeah, it may be "the greatest season in history", but it wasn't. It ended with a loss, which the Rangers have in common with every other playoff team except for the Cardinals in 2011.
I'm tired of saying "That's how baseball go", so I'm not going to say it. I'm done with that.
MAKE the baseball go where you want it to go instead of heading to the plate guessing and gazelle-jumping into the right field wall as Freese slides into third.
I stand behind Ron Washington. I stand behind Jon Daniels. I stand behind Nolan Ryan.
However, I do not stand behind the mindset I saw from that team in the last 12 innings. Whoever needs to fix that problem, fix it.
See you in the spring, it's now fully football season at Oklahoma State.
Yes, I said it. The boys of September. You can figure that nickname out, I have faith.
Again, the Rangers pull out the heart's of their fan base, throw it on the ground (the pitch was called a ball in the process), and trot off into the sunset.
Last year, the Rangers were the feel good story of the year. No one expected a World Series team, and they somehow got past the Rays and Yankees to surprise the world before bowing out after just five games.
2011 was a different story. The Rangers were expected to be a playoff team, and expected to do well in them by their fan base.
They did well, until once again bowing out. This time, in the 9th inning of Game 6.
A good closer doesn't throw a pitch that can be hit 300+ feet, especially in a 2 strike count. Period. End of story.
I'm a Neftali Feliz fan, but what in the world were you thinking?
Whatever, we still have Game 7 right? Wrong.
I made an effort to not watch any ESPN or listen to anything but The Ticket radio station out of DFW all day because I knew they would rule the Rangers out.
But then again, everyone kept harping on "Well the Rangers haven't lost consecutive games in 46 contests!"
The Rangers also weren't in Busch Stadium against Chris Carpenter in any of those 46 games, so I wasn't sold.
I just didn't have a good feeling about it, and turns out I was right. They started out hot, but it turned into a game of Rangers walking to the plate, guessing, and turning around to head to the dugout.
I was confused by that. The Rangers took almost every first pitch, and almost every first pitch was a strike. Then they'd watch the next (Especially Elvis, every time), as a fastball sped right down the middle. Their at-bat would finish with them trying to dig a curve ball out of the dirt almost every time.
I've got to tip my hat to the Cardinals though. They showed up when they needed to show up. Chris Carpenter put the team on his back (Is that term overused yet?) and got it done in the biggest game of his life.
The Cardinals bullpen slammed the door closed, something the Rangers bullpen probably saw as foreign.
And even though this was the greatest season in Texas Ranger franchise history, I'm still not happy with it.
Last year was the year to GET THERE. I know I'm ready to WIN ONE, and I know the 300 other fans that showed up to games back in the mid-90's feel the same way.
I don't mind the bandwagon fans, I wrote a post on that last October.
But I am proud to say that my parents raised me as a Ranger fan from birth. As I put on twitter earlier, I even named my hamsters I got in kindergarten after my two favorite Rangers -- Pudge and Juan (who we later found out was Juanita...)
So yeah, it may be "the greatest season in history", but it wasn't. It ended with a loss, which the Rangers have in common with every other playoff team except for the Cardinals in 2011.
I'm tired of saying "That's how baseball go", so I'm not going to say it. I'm done with that.
MAKE the baseball go where you want it to go instead of heading to the plate guessing and gazelle-jumping into the right field wall as Freese slides into third.
I stand behind Ron Washington. I stand behind Jon Daniels. I stand behind Nolan Ryan.
However, I do not stand behind the mindset I saw from that team in the last 12 innings. Whoever needs to fix that problem, fix it.
See you in the spring, it's now fully football season at Oklahoma State.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Describing The World Series So Far
My friend Justin (@JustinSouthwell) tweeted last night: "Baseball = World's slowest rollercoaster"
Looking back at this world series, I fully agree with him.
I mean, this is ridiculous. If my doctor was in the room for any game, she'd hospitalize me for ridiculously high, neck vein bulging, face reddening blood pressure.
But I thought about Justin's tweet more and more, and I realized it matches a roller coaster perfectly... So I'll match it up with my favorite. The Titan.
The Build Up:
Clank clank clank clank, there goes the chain as we leave the station and start going up for the first drop. The suspense is building up. We beat the Ray's, this is going to be a sweet ride. We're struggling with the Tigers, this drop is going to be huge... I'm getting kind of nervous. I think I can see Fort Worth... Alright, we're at the top. Commence screams.
Game 1: The First Drop
Straight down. CJ pitches alright, gives up 3 runs in almost 6 innings, but Carpenter is even better and gives up 2. It's a kick in the gut, but we expected this drop to be there and be steep, so it's not that big of a deal. Oh, and don't forget the photo booth at the bottom, that's all of your Cardinals friends talking mess. We've got 6 games and a lot of roller coaster left though, breathe.
Game 2: Cruising Straight Up
On the Titan, you go underground, then shoot straight back up. That's just what happened in Game 2. We were at the bottom, then all of the sudden (in the 9th inning) we shot straight back up to almost as high as the first drop. Sweet.
Game 3: What? Another Drop?
This roller coaster is crazy. Not only is this drop even steeper, but it's sideways. Adding to the scary-ness (Is that a word?) of the drop. This is when Pujols hit a ball to the east side of Dallas, and then crushed two more as the Cardinals racked up 16 runs on Matt Harrison, who will be our Game 7 starter if it gets that far. Oh great.
Game 4: Corkscrew
The roller coaster then goes into a two-story corkscrew drop, and this is my favorite part. Yeah, it's a drop, but it's really fun. You try to stick your arms up but you're going so fast they get slung to the side. That's the best way to describe Holland's start, it's so good but so scary at the same time. This is the same guy who threw 10 straight balls in last year's world series when he came out of the bullpen, and he just shut down the Cardinals lineup (except for Berkman) for 8 1/3 inning? Wow. That was a sweet corkscrew.
Game 5: Power Brakes
The Cardinals scored first, just like when you're going about 50 miles an hour and stop on a dime towards the end of the ride. You're thinking it's the worst, but then you go into another corkscrew drop, this time slower. Alexi Ogando somehow escaping an inning, then Mike Napoli doing his best superman impression. Sweet.
Technically, this would be where you cruise into the station on the Titan, jump out of the car and simultaneously kiss the ground and thank God you lived, aka a celebration? Hopefully that isn't a jinx, but I'm only speaking about the Titan if you want to get down to it.
Also, don't forget that the 2011 World Champion Dallas Mavericks series did the exact same thing as the Rangers have done so far. Loss away, win away, loss at home, win at home, win at home, then they won away and danced on LeBron's kingly court.
Could the Rangers dance on Prince Pujols' lawn? I predicted Rangers in 6, but no one can seize momentum in this so you never know. But I'd like to think so.
One thing is for sure...
All trains checked, all seats cleared. Please keep your seat fastened at all times, and enjoy your ride on The Titan at Six Flags Over Texas.
Looking back at this world series, I fully agree with him.
I mean, this is ridiculous. If my doctor was in the room for any game, she'd hospitalize me for ridiculously high, neck vein bulging, face reddening blood pressure.
But I thought about Justin's tweet more and more, and I realized it matches a roller coaster perfectly... So I'll match it up with my favorite. The Titan.
The Build Up:
Clank clank clank clank, there goes the chain as we leave the station and start going up for the first drop. The suspense is building up. We beat the Ray's, this is going to be a sweet ride. We're struggling with the Tigers, this drop is going to be huge... I'm getting kind of nervous. I think I can see Fort Worth... Alright, we're at the top. Commence screams.
Game 1: The First Drop
Straight down. CJ pitches alright, gives up 3 runs in almost 6 innings, but Carpenter is even better and gives up 2. It's a kick in the gut, but we expected this drop to be there and be steep, so it's not that big of a deal. Oh, and don't forget the photo booth at the bottom, that's all of your Cardinals friends talking mess. We've got 6 games and a lot of roller coaster left though, breathe.
Game 2: Cruising Straight Up
On the Titan, you go underground, then shoot straight back up. That's just what happened in Game 2. We were at the bottom, then all of the sudden (in the 9th inning) we shot straight back up to almost as high as the first drop. Sweet.
Game 3: What? Another Drop?
This roller coaster is crazy. Not only is this drop even steeper, but it's sideways. Adding to the scary-ness (Is that a word?) of the drop. This is when Pujols hit a ball to the east side of Dallas, and then crushed two more as the Cardinals racked up 16 runs on Matt Harrison, who will be our Game 7 starter if it gets that far. Oh great.
Game 4: Corkscrew
The roller coaster then goes into a two-story corkscrew drop, and this is my favorite part. Yeah, it's a drop, but it's really fun. You try to stick your arms up but you're going so fast they get slung to the side. That's the best way to describe Holland's start, it's so good but so scary at the same time. This is the same guy who threw 10 straight balls in last year's world series when he came out of the bullpen, and he just shut down the Cardinals lineup (except for Berkman) for 8 1/3 inning? Wow. That was a sweet corkscrew.
Game 5: Power Brakes
The Cardinals scored first, just like when you're going about 50 miles an hour and stop on a dime towards the end of the ride. You're thinking it's the worst, but then you go into another corkscrew drop, this time slower. Alexi Ogando somehow escaping an inning, then Mike Napoli doing his best superman impression. Sweet.
Technically, this would be where you cruise into the station on the Titan, jump out of the car and simultaneously kiss the ground and thank God you lived, aka a celebration? Hopefully that isn't a jinx, but I'm only speaking about the Titan if you want to get down to it.
Also, don't forget that the 2011 World Champion Dallas Mavericks series did the exact same thing as the Rangers have done so far. Loss away, win away, loss at home, win at home, win at home, then they won away and danced on LeBron's kingly court.
Could the Rangers dance on Prince Pujols' lawn? I predicted Rangers in 6, but no one can seize momentum in this so you never know. But I'd like to think so.
One thing is for sure...
All trains checked, all seats cleared. Please keep your seat fastened at all times, and enjoy your ride on The Titan at Six Flags Over Texas.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
World Series Thoughts & Predictions
Sorry for the onslaught of posts tonight, but tonight is best up by one of my favorite quotes in the movie Mean Girls: "I just have a lot of feelings..."
But I needed a separate post to dedicate to MY BACK-TO-BACK ALCS CHAMPION TEXAS RANGERS, and what I am predicting for the World Series.
First off, if you're one of my dedicated fans of this blog, you saw my blog post that previewed the Rangers season. One of my favorite players going in was Mike Napoli, and I'd say he's lived up to my expectations beautifully.
Second, as I said before, we're back in the World Series. My only worry with this team is that the offense is either welders-torch-hot or Antarctica-Polar-Bear-cold.
The lineup needs to find a happy medium between the two. Our starting pitching has been good, but not great. It's obvious that they aren't going to pitch a shutout and will give up 3-5 runs just about every game, so the offense needs to become a constant stream of success. That's something they started doing in the ALCS, and we'll hope they continue to do so.
Third, read the above two paragraph's again, except every time you read the word "Offense", replace it with "bullpen."
Finally, my in-depth predictions for the World Series are as follows.
Rangers in 6.
Michael Young named MVP (He's getting it going!)
Derek Holland goes 2-0 in the series.
I'm also setting the Over/Under on the amount of times the commentator sounds acts like he wants to jump in bed with Pujols per game at 8.
Leave your predictions in the comments, let's get a discussion going!
But I needed a separate post to dedicate to MY BACK-TO-BACK ALCS CHAMPION TEXAS RANGERS, and what I am predicting for the World Series.
First off, if you're one of my dedicated fans of this blog, you saw my blog post that previewed the Rangers season. One of my favorite players going in was Mike Napoli, and I'd say he's lived up to my expectations beautifully.
Second, as I said before, we're back in the World Series. My only worry with this team is that the offense is either welders-torch-hot or Antarctica-Polar-Bear-cold.
The lineup needs to find a happy medium between the two. Our starting pitching has been good, but not great. It's obvious that they aren't going to pitch a shutout and will give up 3-5 runs just about every game, so the offense needs to become a constant stream of success. That's something they started doing in the ALCS, and we'll hope they continue to do so.
Third, read the above two paragraph's again, except every time you read the word "Offense", replace it with "bullpen."
Finally, my in-depth predictions for the World Series are as follows.
Rangers in 6.
Michael Young named MVP (He's getting it going!)
Derek Holland goes 2-0 in the series.
I'm also setting the Over/Under on the amount of times the commentator sounds acts like he wants to jump in bed with Pujols per game at 8.
Leave your predictions in the comments, let's get a discussion going!
The Weekend That Was
It's been an (almost) great weekend.
Audrey called me tonight while I was in my Daily O sports section meeting and left me a voice mail that pretty much summed it up.
"It was potentially the greatest sports weekend of our lives... Then the Cowboys played..."
This has become the story of my life the last couple of weeks.
First, Texas A&M handles Baylor and all order is restored in the world. If Baylor had somehow knocked the Ags off in College Station, I'm pretty sure the administrators would have closed the school. But the 'ol "Wrecking Crew" came through, and Ryan Tannehill came through.
Speaking of Tannehill, I'd like to issue an apology to the quarterback. I was among the Tannehill haters coming into last year when Jerrod was pulled. Jerrod was one of my favorite Aggies to ever play behind Dat Nguyen, Reggie McNeal and Jamaar Toombs (TOOOOOOOMBS!!!), and I think the fact that Tannehill had to come in and replace him is why I didn't like the guy.
I saw him as a conservative quarterback, and once called him an SEC quarterback (go figure...). He never slung the ball around like the rest of the Big 12, but he's coming into his own now. Had he played against Nebraska and OU last year like he did against Baylor this weekend, the Ags would've won by 50. So Ryan, if you're reading this, my bad buddy. My bad.
Then, Oklahoma State played. Blah. That's all I have to say about it. It was a good game because of the outcome, but not a great game. I thought the play-calling was sub-par, Weeden was about a step off and our special teams were suspect as usual. However, I was impressed with the defense. They locked down and only TRULY gave up about 10 points. Well done, Pokes.
Side note: As I put on twitter yesterday, Jamie Blatnick (defensive end, #50) is one of the scariest guys I have ever met and seen play. Next time you see an Oklahoma State game, watch him. He's a freak.
Finally, the Rangers took the field and sent the Tigers back to Detroit with their tails between their legs. Between a 9 run third inning and a steady flow of run support after that, the Rangers Cruz'd (pun intended) into their second straight World Series appearance, which will be played with what looks like the St. Louis Cardinals.
Take care of business this time, boys.
The weekend was great... Or should I say, the Saturday was great.
And just like Audrey said on my voicemail -- "Then the Cowboys played."
No comment.
Audrey called me tonight while I was in my Daily O sports section meeting and left me a voice mail that pretty much summed it up.
"It was potentially the greatest sports weekend of our lives... Then the Cowboys played..."
This has become the story of my life the last couple of weeks.
First, Texas A&M handles Baylor and all order is restored in the world. If Baylor had somehow knocked the Ags off in College Station, I'm pretty sure the administrators would have closed the school. But the 'ol "Wrecking Crew" came through, and Ryan Tannehill came through.
Speaking of Tannehill, I'd like to issue an apology to the quarterback. I was among the Tannehill haters coming into last year when Jerrod was pulled. Jerrod was one of my favorite Aggies to ever play behind Dat Nguyen, Reggie McNeal and Jamaar Toombs (TOOOOOOOMBS!!!), and I think the fact that Tannehill had to come in and replace him is why I didn't like the guy.
I saw him as a conservative quarterback, and once called him an SEC quarterback (go figure...). He never slung the ball around like the rest of the Big 12, but he's coming into his own now. Had he played against Nebraska and OU last year like he did against Baylor this weekend, the Ags would've won by 50. So Ryan, if you're reading this, my bad buddy. My bad.
Then, Oklahoma State played. Blah. That's all I have to say about it. It was a good game because of the outcome, but not a great game. I thought the play-calling was sub-par, Weeden was about a step off and our special teams were suspect as usual. However, I was impressed with the defense. They locked down and only TRULY gave up about 10 points. Well done, Pokes.
Side note: As I put on twitter yesterday, Jamie Blatnick (defensive end, #50) is one of the scariest guys I have ever met and seen play. Next time you see an Oklahoma State game, watch him. He's a freak.
Finally, the Rangers took the field and sent the Tigers back to Detroit with their tails between their legs. Between a 9 run third inning and a steady flow of run support after that, the Rangers Cruz'd (pun intended) into their second straight World Series appearance, which will be played with what looks like the St. Louis Cardinals.
Take care of business this time, boys.
The weekend was great... Or should I say, the Saturday was great.
And just like Audrey said on my voicemail -- "Then the Cowboys played."
No comment.
Monday, October 10, 2011
TCU Makes Sense (And Cents)
It will be official any minute now. TCU has accepted the invitation to join the Big 12 as of July 1, 2012.
And I like it a lot.
Bringing TCU to the Big 12 makes a world of sense, and I still don't quite understand why it didn't happen sooner. You can blame it on Beebe or whoever, but it just doesn't make sense as to why they weren't Big 12 members earlier.
For those of you who aren't caught up on the TCU history, when the Big 12 was formed, they invited Baylor instead of the Frogs, which is one of the story lines that runs wild when TCU and Baylor match up against each other in every sport.
Now, that rivalry will now become an annual game.
But it's not just about Baylor and that rivalry. TCU is developing into a premier footbal team, and they will challenge the traditional Big 12 powers of OU, Texas and now OSU year in and year out.
This doesn't mean that TCU will beat them year in and year out, but it will add another speed bump to their schedules and hopefully bring a balance of powers system to the conference in football.
But as most people can't fathom, this isn't all about football. TCU is a very good and balanced program. They've been a powerhouse in baseball recently, have a great location for basketball recruiting (which will explode once this move is official), and boasts one of the most diverse small-sport programs I've ever seen (They have a RIFLE team).
Not only will this move help the football Big 12, but it will help it overall. TCU is a great overall athletic program with an exploding fan base, and for the sake of the Big 12, let's hope that continues. It'd be nice to see something other than Crimson or Burnt Orange hoisting the Big 12 trophy.
And I like it a lot.
Bringing TCU to the Big 12 makes a world of sense, and I still don't quite understand why it didn't happen sooner. You can blame it on Beebe or whoever, but it just doesn't make sense as to why they weren't Big 12 members earlier.
For those of you who aren't caught up on the TCU history, when the Big 12 was formed, they invited Baylor instead of the Frogs, which is one of the story lines that runs wild when TCU and Baylor match up against each other in every sport.
Now, that rivalry will now become an annual game.
But it's not just about Baylor and that rivalry. TCU is developing into a premier footbal team, and they will challenge the traditional Big 12 powers of OU, Texas and now OSU year in and year out.
This doesn't mean that TCU will beat them year in and year out, but it will add another speed bump to their schedules and hopefully bring a balance of powers system to the conference in football.
But as most people can't fathom, this isn't all about football. TCU is a very good and balanced program. They've been a powerhouse in baseball recently, have a great location for basketball recruiting (which will explode once this move is official), and boasts one of the most diverse small-sport programs I've ever seen (They have a RIFLE team).
Not only will this move help the football Big 12, but it will help it overall. TCU is a great overall athletic program with an exploding fan base, and for the sake of the Big 12, let's hope that continues. It'd be nice to see something other than Crimson or Burnt Orange hoisting the Big 12 trophy.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
OSU Schedule Breakdown - Volume 2
Oklahoma State is through their first four games of the year, and came out smelling like a rose at 4-0.
A gorgeous work of art that included two beat downs in Stillwater, a midnight road premiere in Tulsa (My sleep schedule still isn't recovered) and a brilliant final chapter in the book of second half comebacks against A&M, something that is sure to send the Ags to the SEC with their tails between their legs.
But the first phase of the season is over, and the second is about to begin this weekend against Kansas.
To see the prior installment of this series, check out my blog post from the first four games here.
Game 5: Kansas. OSU 47 KU 14 Uniform Predition: Black Helmet, Orange Jersey, Black Pants
Coming off of their bye week, the Cowboys should be well prepared for this game. Although they have yet to show the recovery process from losing CB Devin Hedgepeth (achilles) and OG Jonathan Rush (knee) for the season, I think they will be okay. For Hedgepeth's spot, Brodrick Brown just shut down Biletnikoff hopeful Jeff Fuller in College Station, and Justin Gilbert on the opposite side is probably the best athlete in the Big 12, if not the country (Yeah, I said it.) For Rush, his buddy Nick Martinez will most likely step into his guard spot. Overall, this game will be another blowout. Kansas had a good first half against Texas Tech last week, but OSU is completely different and a whole different level of "Explosiveness." The Pokes ride on, 5-0.
Game 6: @ Texas. OSU 38 UT 24 Uniform Prediction: White helmet, jersey and pants.
OSU hasn't lost to a team in Texas in two years now, and I don't see them losing in the Lone Star State this year either. The longhorns have incredible home field advantage and incredible athletes, but lack what makes every good football team great -- a quarterback. With no quarterback comes no leadership, and with no leadership comes a wandering ship. The Cowboy defense showed their true colors against A&M in the second half. Now we know what they're capable of, let's just hope that becomes the minimum they give. The score will be a lot closer than the game is, I think Texas will score some garbage points at the end.
Game 7: @ Mizzou. OSU 48 MU 38 Uniform Prediction: White Helmet, White Jersey, Orange Pants
This is the second "Game of the Year" in my mind (With A&M being the first.) Missouri has a way of making things complicated, especially when the game is played in Columbia. OU was beaten there last year, and the Tigers defend their home turf extremely well. This will be another thriller, but I think OSU once again escapes by the skin of their teeth simply because they have better, veteran athletes that have been in a game like that before.
Game 8: HOMECOMING vs. Baylor. OSU 52 BU 14 Uniform Prediction: White Helmet, Orange Jersey, White Pants
Everything about this game is exciting. Last year, the Bears rolled in with all the confidence in the world, only to be down 35 points about 5 plays into the game. This year, the stage will be set similarly. Kansas State just knocked off Baylor in Manhattan this past weekend (October 1), but Baylor knows how to win a ballgame. However, at this point the Pokes will have been away from home for a long time with one game in Stillwater since September 8th against Arizona. They'll come charging out of the tunnel and not look back, especially with last year's homecoming loss to Nebraska in the back of their minds. They aren't letting that happen again, you can take that to the bank.
Season Phase 1 MVP's:
Safety Daytawion Lowe- The Cowboys lost Johnny Thomas, their starting safety alongside Markelle Martin, at the beginning of the season because of eligibility issues. Fans were questioning if Lowe was capable of filling his shoes. If he didn't answer those questions in the first three games of the season, his big hit and forced fumble early in the second half of the A&M game should have.
Defensive End Cooper Bassett- Not to promo my own stories, but the O'Collegian is running my feature on Bassett friday, so be on the lookout for that. Bassett has been playing out of his mind. Long story short, he was recruited as a tight end and changed to defensive end last year. This year, he's been in on several key and game-changing plays. Bassett will be a force down the stretch, and the rest of his days at State.
WR Johnny Cooper- Brandon Weeden always says "I don't know why Cooper doesn't get any publicity." Well here you go, Brandon. He's getting a special shoutout on the most-read blog on the internet... Ha. But seriously, Cooper has been an incredible compliment to Justin Blackmon so far this season, serving as both an outlet for Weeden, as well as sneaking under the radar against defenses. Coop is dynamite in a bottle.
O-Lineman Nick Martinez- Give the big man some love! Once again, did a feature on him a week or so ago... But not the point. Martinez came into the year not having a position, and played two or three every game up through A&M to keep everyone fresh. He's the main reason why Joseph Randle has been able to run the ball so well, he comes in fresh while another guy recovers on the sideline, then does it for the next guy, and so on. With Rush going down with his knee injury, Martinez will most likely get cemented into taking his spot, and with that the rotation will most likely die. Unless Coach Wickline hasn't something else under his sleeve. I wouldn't be surprised if he does.
That's all I've got, "Phase 3" breakdown will come after the Baylor game.
Go Pokes, Go Rangers!
A gorgeous work of art that included two beat downs in Stillwater, a midnight road premiere in Tulsa (My sleep schedule still isn't recovered) and a brilliant final chapter in the book of second half comebacks against A&M, something that is sure to send the Ags to the SEC with their tails between their legs.
But the first phase of the season is over, and the second is about to begin this weekend against Kansas.
To see the prior installment of this series, check out my blog post from the first four games here.
Game 5: Kansas. OSU 47 KU 14 Uniform Predition: Black Helmet, Orange Jersey, Black Pants
Coming off of their bye week, the Cowboys should be well prepared for this game. Although they have yet to show the recovery process from losing CB Devin Hedgepeth (achilles) and OG Jonathan Rush (knee) for the season, I think they will be okay. For Hedgepeth's spot, Brodrick Brown just shut down Biletnikoff hopeful Jeff Fuller in College Station, and Justin Gilbert on the opposite side is probably the best athlete in the Big 12, if not the country (Yeah, I said it.) For Rush, his buddy Nick Martinez will most likely step into his guard spot. Overall, this game will be another blowout. Kansas had a good first half against Texas Tech last week, but OSU is completely different and a whole different level of "Explosiveness." The Pokes ride on, 5-0.
Game 6: @ Texas. OSU 38 UT 24 Uniform Prediction: White helmet, jersey and pants.
OSU hasn't lost to a team in Texas in two years now, and I don't see them losing in the Lone Star State this year either. The longhorns have incredible home field advantage and incredible athletes, but lack what makes every good football team great -- a quarterback. With no quarterback comes no leadership, and with no leadership comes a wandering ship. The Cowboy defense showed their true colors against A&M in the second half. Now we know what they're capable of, let's just hope that becomes the minimum they give. The score will be a lot closer than the game is, I think Texas will score some garbage points at the end.
Game 7: @ Mizzou. OSU 48 MU 38 Uniform Prediction: White Helmet, White Jersey, Orange Pants
This is the second "Game of the Year" in my mind (With A&M being the first.) Missouri has a way of making things complicated, especially when the game is played in Columbia. OU was beaten there last year, and the Tigers defend their home turf extremely well. This will be another thriller, but I think OSU once again escapes by the skin of their teeth simply because they have better, veteran athletes that have been in a game like that before.
Game 8: HOMECOMING vs. Baylor. OSU 52 BU 14 Uniform Prediction: White Helmet, Orange Jersey, White Pants
Everything about this game is exciting. Last year, the Bears rolled in with all the confidence in the world, only to be down 35 points about 5 plays into the game. This year, the stage will be set similarly. Kansas State just knocked off Baylor in Manhattan this past weekend (October 1), but Baylor knows how to win a ballgame. However, at this point the Pokes will have been away from home for a long time with one game in Stillwater since September 8th against Arizona. They'll come charging out of the tunnel and not look back, especially with last year's homecoming loss to Nebraska in the back of their minds. They aren't letting that happen again, you can take that to the bank.
Season Phase 1 MVP's:
Safety Daytawion Lowe- The Cowboys lost Johnny Thomas, their starting safety alongside Markelle Martin, at the beginning of the season because of eligibility issues. Fans were questioning if Lowe was capable of filling his shoes. If he didn't answer those questions in the first three games of the season, his big hit and forced fumble early in the second half of the A&M game should have.
Defensive End Cooper Bassett- Not to promo my own stories, but the O'Collegian is running my feature on Bassett friday, so be on the lookout for that. Bassett has been playing out of his mind. Long story short, he was recruited as a tight end and changed to defensive end last year. This year, he's been in on several key and game-changing plays. Bassett will be a force down the stretch, and the rest of his days at State.
WR Johnny Cooper- Brandon Weeden always says "I don't know why Cooper doesn't get any publicity." Well here you go, Brandon. He's getting a special shoutout on the most-read blog on the internet... Ha. But seriously, Cooper has been an incredible compliment to Justin Blackmon so far this season, serving as both an outlet for Weeden, as well as sneaking under the radar against defenses. Coop is dynamite in a bottle.
O-Lineman Nick Martinez- Give the big man some love! Once again, did a feature on him a week or so ago... But not the point. Martinez came into the year not having a position, and played two or three every game up through A&M to keep everyone fresh. He's the main reason why Joseph Randle has been able to run the ball so well, he comes in fresh while another guy recovers on the sideline, then does it for the next guy, and so on. With Rush going down with his knee injury, Martinez will most likely get cemented into taking his spot, and with that the rotation will most likely die. Unless Coach Wickline hasn't something else under his sleeve. I wouldn't be surprised if he does.
That's all I've got, "Phase 3" breakdown will come after the Baylor game.
Go Pokes, Go Rangers!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
On To The Next One
Just in case anyone missed in my post titled Here We Go Again, I predicted the Rangers in 4 for the ALDS.
But that's over. Peace out Tampa, hello.....?
Could be the Yankees again, or could be the surprisingly good Tigers. Detroit leads New York 2-1 in their series with Game 4 going on right now, so keep your eye on that.
As far as who I would PREFER to play? Call me crazy, but I'll take New York.
The Tigers are playing great baseball right now, and are similar to 2010's Rangers squad in a lot of ways. They have an MVP candidate in the field putting up monster offensive numbers in Miguel Cabrera (like Josh Hamilton), a dominating ace in Justin Verlander who has blown seemingly every batter away all season (like Cliff Lee) and a lights out closer in Jose Valverde, something the Rangers have had here and there with Neftali Feliz.
Not only that, but they're playing inspired, emotion-fueled baseball.
Any Rangers fan knows what an inspired, emotional club can do in the postseason. We saw it last year.
I see the Tigers beating the Yanks tonight and facing off with the Rangers in the ALCS, a much appreciated change of scenery for the players and fans.
It's not that Yankee stadium isn't nice to play in, it's just that we've already been there. I personally would rather not deal with douchebags robbing home runs from Nelson Cruz in right field again, but that may just be me.
Either way, I see it being Detroit. Definitely a series I worry about.
My Prediction:
Rangers win in 6 vs. Detroit
Rangers win in 5 vs. New York
Detroit presents challenges with Verlander and Valverde. I'm not worried about their offense, as Texas possesses the best in the league. Verlander is usually good for a win though, and if they go into the 8th-9th with the lead, Valverde closes it down (He's 50-50 on save chances this year).
If it's New York, I'm worried about the exact opposite. Their pitching staff is the last thing on my mind. We hit CC Sabathia well last year in Game 1, and bombed the rest of the staff for the rest of the series. However, I AM worried about their lineup. There's always Jeter and A-Rod, givens when you talk about power. Then there's Teixeira, who has had a terrible outing in the ALDS, but can awaken at any time. Also, Brett Gardner who terrorizes opponents regularly on the basepaths.
Oh, don't forget about Curtis Granderson, who would probably get my vote for MVP if he wasn't on the Yankees.
So I guess in a way I'm hoping Detroit pulls it off. I'd much rather face good pitching than good hitting. That's what we faced against Tampa in the first round, and that turned out pretty well.
But truthfully, there's no good way to predict what will happen. It's October, the greatest month of the year.
All you can do is sit back, make sure all of your superstitions are in line (My Josh Hamilton shirt hasn't been washed in 3 weeks), and enjoy.
Go Rangers.
But that's over. Peace out Tampa, hello.....?
Could be the Yankees again, or could be the surprisingly good Tigers. Detroit leads New York 2-1 in their series with Game 4 going on right now, so keep your eye on that.
As far as who I would PREFER to play? Call me crazy, but I'll take New York.
The Tigers are playing great baseball right now, and are similar to 2010's Rangers squad in a lot of ways. They have an MVP candidate in the field putting up monster offensive numbers in Miguel Cabrera (like Josh Hamilton), a dominating ace in Justin Verlander who has blown seemingly every batter away all season (like Cliff Lee) and a lights out closer in Jose Valverde, something the Rangers have had here and there with Neftali Feliz.
Not only that, but they're playing inspired, emotion-fueled baseball.
Any Rangers fan knows what an inspired, emotional club can do in the postseason. We saw it last year.
I see the Tigers beating the Yanks tonight and facing off with the Rangers in the ALCS, a much appreciated change of scenery for the players and fans.
It's not that Yankee stadium isn't nice to play in, it's just that we've already been there. I personally would rather not deal with douchebags robbing home runs from Nelson Cruz in right field again, but that may just be me.
Either way, I see it being Detroit. Definitely a series I worry about.
My Prediction:
Rangers win in 6 vs. Detroit
Rangers win in 5 vs. New York
Detroit presents challenges with Verlander and Valverde. I'm not worried about their offense, as Texas possesses the best in the league. Verlander is usually good for a win though, and if they go into the 8th-9th with the lead, Valverde closes it down (He's 50-50 on save chances this year).
If it's New York, I'm worried about the exact opposite. Their pitching staff is the last thing on my mind. We hit CC Sabathia well last year in Game 1, and bombed the rest of the staff for the rest of the series. However, I AM worried about their lineup. There's always Jeter and A-Rod, givens when you talk about power. Then there's Teixeira, who has had a terrible outing in the ALDS, but can awaken at any time. Also, Brett Gardner who terrorizes opponents regularly on the basepaths.
Oh, don't forget about Curtis Granderson, who would probably get my vote for MVP if he wasn't on the Yankees.
So I guess in a way I'm hoping Detroit pulls it off. I'd much rather face good pitching than good hitting. That's what we faced against Tampa in the first round, and that turned out pretty well.
But truthfully, there's no good way to predict what will happen. It's October, the greatest month of the year.
All you can do is sit back, make sure all of your superstitions are in line (My Josh Hamilton shirt hasn't been washed in 3 weeks), and enjoy.
Go Rangers.
Monday, October 3, 2011
First Set of College Football Predictions
I don't like predictions.
They only go one of two ways -- You looking good, or you looking bad.
That being said, I've had some success in the prediction department.
I called Mavs in 6, Rangers to the World Series (Although my series prediction didn't prove true), and even last week in College Station. As the clock hit 0:00 for halftime, Audrey Ryon, my "date", turned to me and said "Is that worry I see on your face?"
I smirked, and answered "Nope, just wait until the second half."
Due to a pact with Ms. Ryon, that is the last I will be speaking of the OSU vs. A&M game, but to clear things up, I will simply say we won. Go Pokes.
But back to business, this will be my first set of College Football predictions for the season. It will include a few big games left on the schedules, conference championships, and the national championship.
Big Games
Alabama over LSU.
I think Alabama is "The team" this year. LSU has played incredible on the road early this season, but Tuscaloosa is a completely different story. Last year, Auburn went in and dug out of a big hole to come out on top, and I don't see the Tide letting that happen again. The problem with LSU is that the quarterback situation. They're questioning Jarrett Lee, who won three tough road games for them, and with the return of Jordan Jefferson, I can see Les Miles trying to make that situation work and having it blow up in his face in the end. Especially in Tuscaloosa.
Wisconsin over Michigan State & Ohio State 10/22 & 10/29
Wisconsin has to go to the horseshoe, but I don't see much resistance this year. The media will hype this game up just because it's "THE Ohio State", but Wisconsin's true test will be the week before against Michigan State. This will be a tradition game, but I see Wisconsin finishing off the MSU/OSU two step wonderfully, especially due to neither of the opponents
Oregon over Stanford 11/12
Stanford doesn't have the firepower Oregon does. It'll be a track meet that Oregon wins easily, especially after having so many "tune up" games before.
Oklahoma State over Oklahoma 12/3
Call me a homer, I don't care. I genuinely think this is the year. OSU is loaded on offense, and the defense shows up when it needs to. Look at the second half of the A&M game, the Cowboys defense completely took Cyrus Gray and Christian Michael out of the game. They also forced Tannehill, widely regarded as a conservative passer, into a handful of turnovers. That amount of defense will be enough for OU, who looks good when they line up against Ball State and beat them by 80 points, but struggled against true opponents such as Florida State and Missouri. And don't forget, Florida State was in Tallahassee... Don't forget where Bedlam is. I'll give you a hint, it rhymes with Stillwater.
Conference Champions
Big 10- Wisconsin
Big East- Pittsburgh
ACC- Clemson or Florida State
Big 12- Oklahoma State
SEC- Alabama
Pac 12- Oregon
Who cares- Boise State
National Championship
Alabama over Wisconsin
This is a tough one. I think these are the two best teams in America because they've built their football team the right way. I was just talking with Harrison, and I said that a football team is only as good as their offensive and defensive lines, and that is the case here. Alabama has some of the most athletic lineman in the nation, and Wisconsin's offensive line may be as good as their Green Bay Packer neighbors. I've gotta give the edge to Bama though, their defense will get it done, as well as the diversity they face all year in the SEC.
My Top 10 Teams in the Nation (Not taking into account the time of their losses, one of the biggest flaws of the BCS and the main reason OK State wasn't in a BCS bowl last year)
1- Alabama
2- LSU
3- Wisconsin
4- Oklahoma State
5- Oklahoma
6- Clemson (I'm a believer!)
7- Oregon
8- Texas A&M (Losses are due to coaching, not to talent level)
9- Stanford
10- Georgia Tech (They're the truth this year)
That's all I've got. I'll revisit this in a few weeks when all of my top 10 teams have lost and the college football landscape is completely different.
But then again, isn't that why we love this sport?
Go Pokes and Go Rangers, that's all folks.
They only go one of two ways -- You looking good, or you looking bad.
That being said, I've had some success in the prediction department.
I called Mavs in 6, Rangers to the World Series (Although my series prediction didn't prove true), and even last week in College Station. As the clock hit 0:00 for halftime, Audrey Ryon, my "date", turned to me and said "Is that worry I see on your face?"
I smirked, and answered "Nope, just wait until the second half."
Due to a pact with Ms. Ryon, that is the last I will be speaking of the OSU vs. A&M game, but to clear things up, I will simply say we won. Go Pokes.
But back to business, this will be my first set of College Football predictions for the season. It will include a few big games left on the schedules, conference championships, and the national championship.
Big Games
Alabama over LSU.
I think Alabama is "The team" this year. LSU has played incredible on the road early this season, but Tuscaloosa is a completely different story. Last year, Auburn went in and dug out of a big hole to come out on top, and I don't see the Tide letting that happen again. The problem with LSU is that the quarterback situation. They're questioning Jarrett Lee, who won three tough road games for them, and with the return of Jordan Jefferson, I can see Les Miles trying to make that situation work and having it blow up in his face in the end. Especially in Tuscaloosa.
Wisconsin over Michigan State & Ohio State 10/22 & 10/29
Wisconsin has to go to the horseshoe, but I don't see much resistance this year. The media will hype this game up just because it's "THE Ohio State", but Wisconsin's true test will be the week before against Michigan State. This will be a tradition game, but I see Wisconsin finishing off the MSU/OSU two step wonderfully, especially due to neither of the opponents
Oregon over Stanford 11/12
Stanford doesn't have the firepower Oregon does. It'll be a track meet that Oregon wins easily, especially after having so many "tune up" games before.
Oklahoma State over Oklahoma 12/3
Call me a homer, I don't care. I genuinely think this is the year. OSU is loaded on offense, and the defense shows up when it needs to. Look at the second half of the A&M game, the Cowboys defense completely took Cyrus Gray and Christian Michael out of the game. They also forced Tannehill, widely regarded as a conservative passer, into a handful of turnovers. That amount of defense will be enough for OU, who looks good when they line up against Ball State and beat them by 80 points, but struggled against true opponents such as Florida State and Missouri. And don't forget, Florida State was in Tallahassee... Don't forget where Bedlam is. I'll give you a hint, it rhymes with Stillwater.
Conference Champions
Big 10- Wisconsin
Big East- Pittsburgh
ACC- Clemson or Florida State
Big 12- Oklahoma State
SEC- Alabama
Pac 12- Oregon
Who cares- Boise State
National Championship
Alabama over Wisconsin
This is a tough one. I think these are the two best teams in America because they've built their football team the right way. I was just talking with Harrison, and I said that a football team is only as good as their offensive and defensive lines, and that is the case here. Alabama has some of the most athletic lineman in the nation, and Wisconsin's offensive line may be as good as their Green Bay Packer neighbors. I've gotta give the edge to Bama though, their defense will get it done, as well as the diversity they face all year in the SEC.
My Top 10 Teams in the Nation (Not taking into account the time of their losses, one of the biggest flaws of the BCS and the main reason OK State wasn't in a BCS bowl last year)
1- Alabama
2- LSU
3- Wisconsin
4- Oklahoma State
5- Oklahoma
6- Clemson (I'm a believer!)
7- Oregon
8- Texas A&M (Losses are due to coaching, not to talent level)
9- Stanford
10- Georgia Tech (They're the truth this year)
That's all I've got. I'll revisit this in a few weeks when all of my top 10 teams have lost and the college football landscape is completely different.
But then again, isn't that why we love this sport?
Go Pokes and Go Rangers, that's all folks.
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