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NCAA Football
Creating a 64-Team Bracket for the 2015 NCAA Football Season
Imagine, if you will, a college football postseason spanning across six magnificent weeks and featuring 64 teams.
Productivity would plummet. Holidays would be left in shambles. Televisions would be exhausted. Relationships would be tested. It would be beautiful madness.
Round 1 would feature 32 games alone. It would take place sometime in the heart of December and be the greatest weekend on the sporting calendar. From there, the tournament would hover right on by Christmas, carry us through New Year's Eve and conclude sometime in late January.
A national champion would then be crowned—the last team standing. Oh, it would be extraordinary.
This dream, of course, is only that. No, college football is not getting a 64-team playoff. Not next week, not next year, not next century. It will expand beyond four teams at some point, but not to this level of gluttony.
However, as college basketball recharges its bracket batteries for another year—a postseason structure that is equal parts perfect and insane—one can't help but ponder what this madness might look like in the football realm.
Over the past four years, I have put this hypothetical picture on paper with a 64-team postseason. I have done so because of tradition. I have done so because the offseason does strange things to us all.
A few important notes, starting with the most important: The bracket is seeded based on last year's results. This is where most of the commenters have gone astray in the past. The anger will flow regardless.
It's perfectly fine to detest the work of the committee (me), but at least understand precisely what you hate.
In order to complete the seeding, I used a combination of factors: final poll position, overall record, bowl performance and general momentum heading into the end of the year. To cap it off, I incorporated a solid serving of the eye test. This ingredient is usually where we go our separate ways.
With that information out in the open, let's embrace the hypothetical madness. Here are the four regions.
The most delightful tailgate of the entire tournament will come out of the Midwest. When fifth-seeded LSU takes on 12th-seeded West Virginia, the pregame festivities will be seen from outer space.
There will be delectable cuisine. There will be loud voices. There will be fires—most of which will hopefully be controlled. There will be alcohol poured in bottles without labels. It will be one of the most amazing game-day experiences ever concocted. Stay safe, all.
The sexiest No. 2 vs. No. 15 matchup is also housed here, which is a wonderful way to market a region, I suppose. Michigan State, fresh off its Alabama demolition, still gets plenty of respect as a No. 2 seed. The Spartans will draw Auburn in a matchup that is fascinating on paper if nothing else.
Leading this bracket is Clemson, the No. 1 seed and the No. 2 overall seed in the tournament. The Tigers take on No. 16 Arizona State—not something I thought I'd write before last fall began—followed by the winner of Appalachian State-Georgia Southern.
Not enough people will watch as Appalachian State-Georgia Southern touch gloves, which is a shame. That's a glorious little game. Plan accordingly.
Although things took a turn for the worse late in the year, Iowa still hangs on to a No. 3 seed. The Hawkeyes draw No. 14 Washington in Round 1—a pesky underdog that could give them a game. The winner there will take on the winner of No. 6 Tennessee vs. No. 11 Louisiana Tech.
For a reminder of how Iowa fared last time they played Tennessee, please see this GIF.
Here's some insider bracket knowledge: Texas Tech was the last team to earn a spot in the top 64, edging out a slew of other programs with comparable resumes. Kliff Kingsbury's reward for making it to this next phase is a matchup with No. 1 seed Stanford.
The committee takes no prisoners here. After all, the nation's No. 127 rushing defense will go up against Heisman runner-up Christian McCaffrey, one of the most diabolical running backs in the nation. It will do so after it was steamrolled by LSU running back Leonard Fournette in the previous game.
Please keep your children away from this game. They don't need to see this.
TCU is the second seed in the region following its thrilling bowl win over Oregon. The Frogs will draw Northern Illinois and then the winner of Boise State-Washington State—a game that is destined to get weird early and stay weird throughout.
The Fighting Irish, despite an avalanche of injuries and a bowl loss to Ohio State, are the No. 3 seed. Brian Kelly's team will play Western Michigan. The winner of this game will then play No. 6 Wisconsin or No. 11 BYU.
And perhaps my favorite game of Round 1 in this region is San Diego State—winners of their final 10 games—taking on Memphis in the 8-9 game. There will be points. And don't go sleeping on San Diego State. The Aztecs can hang with just about anybody in this region.
Just imagine the magnitude of a Jim Harbaugh-Nick Saban game for a spot in the Elite Eight. The ratings for such a telecast would be Super Bowl-esque. The postgame handshake would be a frigid, facial-expression buffet. It would be a national holiday.
In my world, this is all possible. Alabama, the No. 1 seed in the South (and the No. 1 seed in the tournament) plays North Carolina State in Round 1.
A victory there could guarantee a game against Georgia in the next round, which would generate some rather substantial ratings as well. Kirby Smart might coach against his protege in an Alabama polo.
Houston is the No. 2 seed overall in the South, which may seem strange to some. It shouldn't. In fact, coming off a bowl victory over Florida State, giving the Cougars this seed was an easy decision. They'll open with Penn State before drawing the winner of Louisville-Florida.
If BCS rematches are your thing, then look no further than No. 4 Michigan vs. No. 13 Virginia Tech—a 2012 Sugar Bowl replay. And yes, because it can't be stated enough, look again at the potential Elite Eight game and just buy tickets. It doesn't matter that it's not real—go get them!
As for a game that would ultimately last seven hours and feature roughly 57 touchdowns, look no further than No. 6 Western Kentucky vs. No. 11 Cal. With two of the nation's most punishing offenses and two defenses that are certifiably "meh" on a good day, this could be fun.
Ohio State may have missed out on a playoff spot, but the Buckeyes are proud owners of a No. 1 seed in a tournament that will never happen. I am sure Urban Meyer is thrilled.
Also, to the soon-to-be 478 or so former Buckeyes headed to the upcoming NFL draft from this year's squad, please come back and play college football for free a little longer. Pretty, pretty please?
The Buckeyes will open with Cincinnati in an all-Ohio showdown in Round 1, followed by the winner of Temple-Arkansas in the next round. While Meyer-Bielema might not have the same matchup power of Saban-Harbaugh, these former Big Ten buddies—note: not actual buddies—would make for quality watching.
Oklahoma, after faltering late in the year, is the No. 2 seed overall in the East. The Sooners will draw Duke and then the winner of Northwestern-Bowling Green, a delightful little 10-7 matchup to get things going.
Ole Miss vs. Miami is about as interesting as a bracket gets when it comes to a three seed taking on a 14 seed. The winner of this game draws Mississippi State or South Florida—the trendy No. 11 seed that bracket hipsters will peg to win more than one game.
And Florida State, fresh off a loss to Houston, still holds down a four seed here. The Seminoles will get Arkansas State, followed by the winner of Utah-Marshall.
This is the bracket in its entirety. The winner, of course, will never be known. The idea that 64 teams could ever play one another in a college football season remains preposterous.
See you again next year.
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Michigan Football Week 2 Spring Practice Report
The second week of Michigan football's spring practice was back in Ann Arbor, which meant exponentially less attention compared to the weeklong "circus" in Florida.
Plus, as is typical, head coach Jim Harbaugh closed workouts to the media. Fewer updates were available to pass along, but a few Wolverines assistants shared important notes on the team's outlook.
Notable news included defenders impressing in practice, a returning player locked in a position battle and an incoming prospect poised for immediate snaps—and perhaps stardom.
Guys and Dudes
New defensive coordinator Don Brown brought from Boston College a unique way to describe players, classifying some as "guys" but standout performers as "dudes."
If you're not familiar, that's perfectly OK—mostly because it provides an excuse to share the greatest Vine in the history of football coaches saying stuff. This is Boston College head coach Steve Addazio:
Brown periodically shared the updates on Twitter, which helped explain how the Michigan coaches feel about a collection of guys.
And dudes.
Through two weeks, players classified as "guys" are defensive end Chase Winovich, linebacker Noah Furbush, linebacker Devin Bush Jr., cornerback Brandon Watson and safety Delano Hill.
Linebacker Ben Gedeon, versatile weapon Jabrill Peppers and cornerback Channing Stribling compose the select group of "dudes" so far.
While Winovich could develop into a capable reserve for 2016, the encouraging sign for Wolverines fans likely is seeing a total of three linebackers—as well as Peppers—on the lists. Stribling might start opposite Jourdan Lewis.
Updates on Ty Isaac, Running Back Competition
After receiving regular carries during the early portion of the 2015 season, Ty Isaac disappeared from the rotation and eventually the travel roster. At that time—from our seat—a transfer seemed like a potentially realistic option.
Per Nick Baumgardner of MLive, Isaac admitted he made some mistakes that contributed to his lack of playing time.
However, running backs coach Tyrone Wheatley said the main factor was Isaac's competition—namely De'Veon Smith and Drake Johnson—flat-out being better.
Baumgardner noted Isaac shared he didn't second-guess his transfer to Ann Arbor. So, the Wolverines will have a healthy battle for carries throughout the next year. Smith, Johnson and Karan Higdon return, while 4-star Kareem Walker should also be a factor.
According to Shawn Windsor of the Detroit Free Press, Wheatley said the No. 1 job is Smith's to lose. He led the team with 753 yards and six touchdowns last season.
Looking Forward to Rashan Gary
Defensive line coach Greg Mattison offered some praise for a player headed to campus this summer. That player, unsurprisingly, was No. 1 overall prospect Rashan Gary.
Per Carlos Monarrez of the Free Press, Mattison said:
The thing that's so exciting about Rashan is you can watch a highlight tape and then you can watch entire games and it's the same thing. The reason a highlight tape is called a highlight tape is because they pick out the best plays. Well, you can see a lot of good players doing that. This young man really is consistent on trying to play the way you want him to play.
The Wolverines will have a chance to interact with Gary during the third week of practice. According to Steve Lorenz of 247Sports, Gary's mother said the 5-star defensive tackle is spending his spring break at Michigan.
Mattison shared Gary will begin his career at defensive end, though production and need might result in him shifting inside to tackle.
Gary's billing created the hype train, but Michigan's coaches aren't doing anything to slow it down.
All recruiting information via 247Sports. Stats from CFBStats.com or B/R research. Quotes obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. Follow Bleacher Report CFB writer David Kenyon on Twitter @Kenyon19_BR.
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Florida Football Week 1 Spring Practice Report
The defending SEC East champs are on the practice field in 2016 as second-year head coach Jim McElwain hopes to defend his division title and fill enough roster holes to make any head coach lose sleep.
The quarterback battle taking place among Luke Del Rio, Austin Appleby and Feleipe Franks is what's garnering the most attention, but finding a running back, solidifying the offensive line, reloading the front seven and replacing superstar corner Vernon Hargreaves III are all on the docket for the Gators this March and April.
No pressure, Jim.
How have the boys from old Florida looked during the early stages of spring?
Quarterback Picture Coming Into Focus?
Treon Harris ended last season as the starter at quarterback and reportedly will be moved to wide receiver if and when he hits the practice field following his suspension (more on that in a moment). The battle to win the job in 2016 most likely won't be settled this spring thanks to Del Rio's inexperience, the arrival of Appleby—a Purdue transfer—and the presence of true freshman early enrollee Franks.
Apparently a front-runner has emerged.
Del Rio, the former Alabama and Oregon State player who arrived at Florida a year ago and sat out the 2015 season, has impressed the staff with his ability to pick up the playbook and lead the team, as McElwain explained to Edgar Thompson of the Orlando Sentinel:
One of the things that I love about him is he's kind of a gym rat. You can tell he obviously grew up around the game. He's a guy who enjoys watching film. He enjoys [being] around the guys, he's does a great job as a leader. Not only is he a good quarterback, but just the qualities you want at that position.
The Gators sputtered down the stretch after former quarterback Will Grier was suspended for a year after violating the NCAA's performance-enhancing drug policy in mid-October. They averaged just 319.8 yards per game and 4.65 yards per play over the final six games of the year, according to cfbstats.com.
Once Grier decided to transfer and it became clear that Harris' future was at wide receiver, Del Rio became the leader the Gators needed during offseason conditioning.
"He took the role on very fast," safety Marcus Maye said, according to Thompson. "He's got a great relationship with the guys."
Unless there's some unforeseen news that pops up between the end of spring practice, it's unlikely that McElwain will actually name a starter during or immediately after spring practice. He let the Grier-Harris battle bleed into the season last year, and with so much inexperience across the board in this year's battle, a prolonged competition is essentially required so the staff can have a firm grasp on what each contender is capable of.
But Del Rio's emergence early in spring practice is a good sign for an offense that desperately needs a leader. A quick jump will leave a lasting impression on the staff and set the bar high for the contenders. Even if he doesn't win the job, a higher standard will benefit the entire offense.
Suspensions? Who Knew?
One of the most surprising developments of spring practice came in the form of suspensions to Harris and star sophomore wide receiver Antonio Callaway, according to the Associated Press (via the USA Today). Harris obviously needs spring practice to adjust to his new position if that is McElwain's plan, and Callaway is the only proven playmaker outside on the Gator offense.
Depending on how long they last, these suspensions could be huge for the wide receiving corps.
Harris is certainly a project and will likely mimic the role of slot receiver Brandon Powell. Because of that, these 15 spring practices will be invaluable to his development as a receiver. With Harris on the sideline, his future with the team—at either position—doesn't look very bright.
For Callaway, it's a missed opportunity to learn with the quarterbacks who are practicing.
The majority of his work as a true freshman in 2015—when he caught 35 passes for 678 yards and four touchdowns—came with Grier and Harris taking the snaps. The eventual winner of the quarterback battle in Gainesville will need to be on the same page with Callaway—who caught the game-winner late in the rivalry with Tennessee in late September—if the Gators are going to add that much-needed second dimension to the struggling offense.
The silver lining is that other wide receivers will get more snaps in their absence, which will build much-needed depth and versatility to the struggling unit. Building that depth is one of the primary goals of spring practice in most instances. But with Florida's offense serving as the punchline to a bad joke for a half-decade, the search for explosiveness takes precedent this spring.
Building DB Depth
Florida has the dynamic duo of Jalen Tabor and Quincy Wilson to rely on at cornerback this spring, along with Maye at safety and the versatile Duke Dawson—who can play corner or safety—in the mix.
Depth is needed, though, and it could come in the form of early enrollees.
Former 4-star corner Chauncey Gardner is up to 205 pounds from 194 so far this spring, and athlete McArthur Burnett—who's listed as a defensive back on Florida's spring roster—has already added 17 pounds, McElwain told Nick de la Torre of GatorCountry.com.
"They are able to eat. Let's call it the way it is. That's one of the great things the NCAA did, was allow these guys to be able to have access to actual meals," McElwain said. "For guys like that who aren't used to getting consistent eating habits, it's not hard, right? So that's good to see."
Gardner has everything it takes to be a star, and will fill in nicely behind the two starters as a true freshman a lot like Tabor did two years ago.
It's lather, rinse, repeat for the Gators secondary, which routinely develops young players and turns them into stars quickly once they arrive on campus.
Ground And Pound(s)
Anytime a junior college transfer comes in, the expectation should be for him to make an immediate impact.
Mark Thompson has done just that.
The former Dodge City (Kansas) Community College running back has stepped into the battle that's taking place at running back with Jordan Scarlett and Jordan Cronkrite and made a huge impression.
The 6'2", 242-pounder originally from La Mott, Pennsylvania, already looks the part of a star in the SEC.
"That's an SEC back, right there," McElwain said of Thompson, according to Jesse Simonton of the Miami Herald. "He looks the part. Now we'll find out when we get pads on. I noticed when he was hitting a couple inside zones and cutbacks, the guy that was kind of coming down questioned [himself] a little bit. He could see a bigger body there."
Could he be the next Derrick Henry?
The reigning Heisman Trophy winner and former Alabama star is of similar size and stature to Thompson, and McElwain's pro-style pedigree will lend itself to a bruising running back playing a big role in the offense.
Quotes were obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. Statistics are courtesy of cfbstats.com, and recruiting information is courtesy of 247Sports.
Barrett Sallee is the lead SEC college football writer and national college football video analyst for Bleacher Report as well as a host on Bleacher Report Radio on SiriusXM 83. Follow Barrett on Twitter @BarrettSallee.
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The Most Unbreakable Records in College Football
Records, by nature, were made to be broken. As time marches on and players get bigger, faster, stronger and smarter, records are threatened. That's true for college football as well. The NCAA's FBS record book contains some impressive records, but with each passing season, more and more of them are threatened by better players, as well as a season that continues to expand with the introduction of the College Football Playoff.
However, some records are more secure than others. Certain college football records, whether they're single-game, single-season or career, stand out as particularly impressive when you scan the record book. Here's a look at nine of the most unbreakable records in college football.
Tennessee Football Week 1 Spring Practice Report
Each spring of head coach Butch Jones' tenure in Knoxville, Tennessee, has been met with anticipation, but there's arguably never been a Tennessee football practice more welcomed than this year's.
Not only are the Volunteers expected to be excellent in 2016, the offseason Title IX lawsuit turmoil that has embroiled the university and athletic department has been difficult to escape as it has dominated numerous news cycles.
For the past week, it's been nice to be able to talk about football for a change.
And, boy, have the reports been encouraging for UT so far. Jones' success on the recruiting trail has translated extremely well to the rebuild on Rocky Top as the Vols have gotten progressively better each year. Just 10 players recruited by former head coach Derek Dooley remain, and the roster flip is evident on the field this spring.
This year's Vols should be a deep, strong and talented football team bolstered by being coached by the same coaches and in the same strength and conditioning program for most of their entire careers.
The staff changes that have been made (trading defensive coordinator John Jancek for Bob Shoop and tight ends coach Mark Elder for Larry Scott) should be upgrades.
Even those veteran coaches are gushing about the Vols' workmanship approach. GoVols247's Wes Rucker recently spoke with Shoop, who is impressed with some of the leadership he's already seen:
Few positions should give Tennessee trouble this year. There are still a few question marks about defensive tackle depth, and the left offensive tackle job is open along with plenty of receiver battles, but there is talent galore. There appear to be several potential answers in places where there are questions.
Even the players aren't shy to talk about their excitement.
"We have a lot of depth, and it's huge," quarterback Joshua Dobbs told Rucker. "I mean, this program's really night and day since I got here. It's great to see we're headed in the right direction. But our key this year, you know, is we're trying to take the next step in moving forward.
How big is that step? SEC East? SEC championship? Perhaps even more?
They certainly passed the eyeball test after the first week of spring. So, let's take a look at some of the storylines dominating Tennessee's fall camp thus far.
The gap is closed
Perhaps the most eye-opening thing throughout the entire first week is just how infrequently everybody has heard about the Vols' known stars.
Little has been mentioned about Dobbs, Jalen Hurd, Alvin Kamara, Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Cameron Sutton. That's because they're doing little. And, why not? Jones and the coaching staff already know what they're going to get from those guys.
There's no reason for them to be churning out rep after rep and risking injury.
When you talk about the top level of talent at Tennessee, everybody around the SEC can name those guys. But it's the depth and speed of the underclassmen that could separate this group and finally lead to them competing for meaningful things.
Players such as Preston Williams, Jauan Jennings, Vincent Perry and Jeff George are standing out in the receiving corps. Everybody has been raving about the defensive backs and linebackers, too. The offensive line is impressing, and defensive end depth is sick.
Simply put, this is a different team. It looks original, and the speed of the game has been noticeably different to everybody watching.
"Their athleticism stands out," Volquest.com's Paul Fortenberry said on a video of observations this week. "I think they like their skill guys. ... But these first two days, I think we've come to appreciate what they have in terms of their skill guys and their athleticism."
Once the pads went on, the attention shifted to praise for redshirt freshman left tackle Drew Richmond and sophomore defensive tackle Kahlil McKenzie, who has changed his body. Redshirt freshman defensive end Darrell Taylor is drawing rave reviews, too, for his speed off the edge.
It's not a big surprise that UT looks like a quality SEC team a year removed from a 9-4 campaign that featured four losses by a combined 17 points. But this is a team big, fast and physical enough to compete with anybody on the schedule.
That's huge news in what could be an exciting year. One of Tennessee's slogans this year is being "elite" and trying to make that jump from "good" to "great." It appears the Vols are off to a solid start on the field:
Emerging star on the perimeter?
If there's been one player who has been the talk of the camp so far, it would be Williams.
Last year around this time, nobody could stop yapping about freshman defensive tackle Shy Tuttle, who turned heads early. He wound up making an immediate impact and was becoming one of the team's two best interior linemen before a season-ending injury against Georgia cost him the rest of the season.
Now, Williams will try to be the next buzzworthy player who turns potential into production.
The 6'4", 209-pound sophomore receiver from Lovejoy, Georgia, was one of the most coveted pass-catchers in the country when he chose UT. He battled back from a nasty knee injury as a high school senior and an ACT issue that kept him off the field for much of fall practice to make a quick impact.
He had two touchdown grabs against Western Carolina, but then, a nagging hamstring injury limited him throughout the last part of his freshman year. Now that he's healthy and refocused, the player nicknamed The Resort may be a regular destination for Dobbs passes in 2016.
He's big and strong, as evidenced by this tweet from the Daily Times' Austin Bornheim:
It looks like he's worked a lot in the weight room, and if he has his head on straight, there are few limits to Williams' potential.
Williams got his black stripe removed in the first week, which is a rite of passage for UT players. He's starred on the field and looks like he is ready to step up, especially in the absence of injured leading receiver Josh Malone, who won't be healthy until the summer.
"You can't help but be impressed by Preston Williams," GoVols247's Ryan Callahan told Vince Ferrara and John Adams on GVX Audio. "It looks like he's really taken a step from the end of last season."
The Vols haven't had a legitimate receiving weapon since Justin Hunter's final year in Knoxville, which also happened to be Cordarrelle Patterson's only season wearing orange and white.
With UT's shift to faster, yards-after-catch-oriented targets, having somebody big and fast who can stretch the field like Williams is vital. He really could play a major role in this offense. If he emerges, it'll only make the Vols much more dangerous.
Top-end talent on the defense's back end
Last year, one of the strengths of Tennessee's team was supposed to be the third level of the defense.
With star junior Cameron Sutton anchoring down one edge and the senior duo of Brian Randolph and LaDarrell McNeil at safety, the Vols should have been great in the secondary.
But the bizarre one-game suspension of defensive backs coach Willie Martinez in a season opener where Bowling Green receivers consistently torched UT led to a rocky early season on the back end.
As the year progressed, Malik Foreman began to grow into the role of nickelback, Sutton began to look like himself again and Randolph did, too. Justin Martin and Emmanuel Moseley began rounding into form, and by the end of the year, the defensive backs looked good.
This year, they should be even better.
Not only is Shoop around now, along with his reputation of developing stellar safeties, but the Vols have much more talent in the secondary. Though Randolph and McNeil are gone, potential stars abound.
Rashaan Gaulden is back and playing for the injured Evan Berry at safety along with Todd Kelly Jr. Micah Abernathy is turning heads at safety, too. Martin, Moseley, true freshman Marquill Osborne and others are back there, and Sutton is going to be steady regardless.
If UT can get pressure on opposing quarterbacks up front, Shoop's addition should really help the defensive backs to be aggressive. There's so much talent that Tennessee can play matchups, and the Vols will have even more weapons at their disposal once Nigel Warrior and Tyler Byrd get on campus this summer.
Shoop told Callahan earlier last week that he's thrilled with the options, particularly at safety:
I'm excited about Rashaan. Rashaan's had two excellent days. Todd Kelly probably has the most game experience at safety, but Rashaan, he's had two really good practices. Micah Abernathy's had two really good practices. And Stephen Griffin has had two really good practices.
I feel like a position that may have been a perceived weakness, because you lose Randolph and McNeil, could well be a position of strength. All those guys are highly recruited players, and they're competing very well. They're very diligent in the film room. They're trying to do the right things, communicating and making plays on the field.
And then, obviously, come (preseason) camp, when you get Tyler Byrd or a Nigel Warrior here, it's going to even be more competitive. And those guys are well aware of that, and they're competing with one another.
With all that talent back there, the Vols will almost certainly be able to field a group of athletes that will cause fits for opposing quarterbacks.
Rocky Top roundup
- One of the battles to watch this spring is at left tackle, and offensive coordinator Mike DeBord told Callahan that Richmond and fifth-year senior Dontavius Blair are battling for that spot right now.
- There have been several notable position moves this spring that already are paying dividends, such as Dillon Bates shifting back to outside linebacker and Austin Smith moving down to defensive end. But the biggest move that could cause the quickest waves is Jason Croom to tight end. Croom told Callahan he wants to add a different "element" to UT's offense.
- Sophomore defensive tackle Kahlil McKenzie is still big; huge even at 6'3", 344 pounds. But he has redefined his body, and he is making a much bigger splash than he did a year ago. Middle linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr. told the Chattanooga Times Free Press' Patrick Brown of McKenzie: "He's a man amongst boys."
All quotes and information gathered firsthand unless otherwise noted. All recruiting information gathered from 247Sports unless otherwise noted. All stats gathered at UTSports.com unless otherwise noted.
Brad Shepard covers SEC football and is the Tennessee lead writer for Bleacher Report. Follow Brad on Twitter @Brad_Shepard.
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Big Ten Football Coaches Facing the Toughest Tasks This Spring
Ohio State's quest to replace an incredible 16 starters, Michigan State's journey back from its blowout playoff loss and Michigan's search for its next great quarterback highlight a busy spring for the Big Ten.
The conference was the king of the college football world following a breakout 2014 postseason, when the Buckeyes won the first-ever College Football Playoff, the Spartans beat the Baylor Bears in one of the best games of the season and the Big Ten went 5-5 overall despite being underdogs in each matchup.
The league went 5-5 again in the 2015 postseason, highlighted by Ohio State's drubbing of Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl. But the Big Ten took a hit with Michigan State's disastrous 38-0 defeat at the hands of Alabama in the playoff.
The road back to college football's biggest stage starts this spring. From new coaches taking over to established ones trying to reload, here are five coaches facing some of the league's biggest challenges.
Highlights and Analysis from the Opening Dallas Regional
COPPELL, Texas — The Dallas regional for both The Opening and Elite 11 has a reputation of highlighting some of the nation's most talented players. Sunday proved to be nothing different, as more than 300 athletes showcased their skills at Coppell High School.
When the competition was over, nine athletes punched their tickets to The Opening finals, which will take place this summer in Beaverton, Oregon.
Linebackers shine, punch their tickets
Of the nine invitees, three who were consistent during the day will play college football as linebackers.
Baron Browning, Levi Draper and Anthony Hines III all left with invitations to The Opening—despite not claiming position MVP honors at the event. Mohamed Sanogo, a 3-star inside linebacker from Plano, Texas, won the MVP award.
It was Browning, Draper and Hines, however, who claimed summer invites to the nation's most prestigious high school football skills competition.
"I came out with the mindset of getting it. That's all I wanted," Browning said. "When they didn't call my name for [linebacker] MVP, I didn't trip because all I wanted was The Opening. It felt good to hear my name called, and when they called my name first, I was looking around hoping it wasn't another Baron."
Hines added: "Honestly, it's an awesome feeling. I'm really blessed to have this opportunity to compete in the first place. To get this, it's just a cherry on top."
Of the three linebackers, Draper is the only one who is currently committed. Draper, the No. 3 inside linebacker in the 2017 class, committed to Oklahoma on Dec. 5. Browning, a former Baylor commit, is the No. 2 outside linebacker, while Hines—who has 85 offers—is the No. 2 inside linebacker.
Sleeper no more: New Mexico RB makes his mark
Get to know the name O'Maury Samuels. He's expected to be a name that goes from one offer to many in a very short time.
A running back from Los Lunas, New Mexico, Samuels first made an impression Saturday by taking over the nation's top spot in the Nike+ Football Rating competition. After running the 40-yard dash in 4.58 seconds, finishing the 20-yard shuttle in 4.14 seconds, throwing the power ball 43 feet and recording a vertical jump of 44.5 inches, Samuels scored a ratings score of 138.30, besting the previous ratings leader, 2018 running back DeMarcus Townsend, by nearly six points.
Samuels earned a spot in The Opening Dallas regional with the help of Saturday's performance. And on Sunday, he competed and impressed the event staff enough to earn his invitation to Beaverton. It's an outstanding feat for an athlete who only has one offer from New Mexico State.
"It's a blessing. Not a lot of athletes can say they'll be able to do this," said Samuels, who rushed for 1,468 yards and 21 touchdowns as a junior for Los Lunas High School, according to MaxPreps.com. "This is the first major camp I've ever been to. I think I showed out."
Samuels said that while he only has one offer, he's also been in contact with Notre Dame, USC, Arizona and New Mexico, and he hopes to use his weekend performances to grow his recruitment.
DB skills training coach gets high praise
There are defensive backs—and linebackers looking to improve their coverage skills—from the states of Texas and Oklahoma who are big fans of Clay Mack. The skills training coach has built a reputation of improving athletes' overall skill set using intensity and positive reinforcement without publicly degrading an athlete.
Mack's level intensity was high Sunday, as he served as a defensive backs coach at the regional. Mack also saw two athletes he's trained, 5-star Texan Jeffrey Okudah and 4-star Oklahoman Tre Brown, earn invitations to The Opening finals.
"It's a testimony to how hard I worked this offseason, polishing my mechanics with Coach Mack," said Okudah—the nation's No. 1 safety in the 2017 class. "I've put in extra hours with him, and it's really paid off."
Mack has trained some of the best athletes to play college and pro football in recent years. Among them are Jacksonville Jaguars safety Tashaun Gipson, LSU safety Jamal Adams and Texas safety Jason Hall.
Verone McKinley III, a 2018 cornerback with double-digit offers, gave Mack his stamp of approval, as well.
"Clay Mack's the real deal," McKinley said. "My technique and my football IQ, I think he's really helped out with those skill set. I don't care what anyone says; Clay Mack is my guy."
APB Williams shows skill, versatility
Cedar Hill (Texas) High School has a few stud 2017 athletes on its team. One of those players who made an impact Sunday is Kaegun Williams—a 3-star all-purpose back who walked away with running back MVP honors.
Chiseled at 5'9" and 190 pounds, Williams was solid in running back drills, as well as passing drills. He made a lasting impression in "Cat & Mouse," the popular, one-on-one drill pitting a running back against a linebacker.
Williams is classified as an all-purpose back because he is equally dangerous in the backfield as he is lined up as a receiver.
"I feel comfortable wherever I'm at on the field," Williams said. "I can catch and be comfortable at receiver, and I can run the ball."
Williams only has four offers thus far, but Tennessee is his most well-known offer. He also has SMU, Kansas and Tulsa offers and has been in contact with Stanford and Cal. Williams called his recruiting process "subtle and real smooth" and said he's expecting things to pick up during the spring.
Play of the day...with a kick
"Cat & Mouse" is a steady attraction at The Opening regional competitions, primarily because of the combination of intense linebacker-running back competition, the joking and trash-talking among the coaches and the punishment of 25 push-ups ultimately directed to the losing side.
Recently, the competition has been one where, if the running backs win, those in attendance will see running backs coach Jamal Robertson show his joy with a jump and a heel kick. It's been caught on video twice this circuit when the running backs win the battle in the final round.
Credit Hermitage, Arkansas, 3-star athlete Monta Thomas for Robertson's heel kick Sunday.
Robertson, who played in the NFL for San Francisco, Carolina and Atlanta and also saw time in the CFL, gave the same kick at The Opening Los Angeles regional when Jared Adelman made a winning move in favor of the running backs two weeks ago.
Damon Sayles is a National Recruiting Analyst for Bleacher Report. All quotes were obtained firsthand. All player ratings are courtesy of 247Sports' composite ratings. Follow Damon via Twitter: @DamonSayles
Read more College Football news on BleacherReport.com
10 College Football Teams in Need of Uniform Redesign
When you look good, you play good. Some college football teams don't always display the former, however, and they could use a redesign to their uniforms.
To be clear, this is not necessarily a critique of a program's entire set of uniforms. Few teams have perfectly similar home and road uniforms merely differentiated by primary color.
Each uniform included was used during the 2015 season, so a disaster like the Connecticut helmet worn with anything is not eligible—yet it found a way to get mentioned anyway.
Personal opinion undoubtedly plays a notable role, and you might not share the following views. Believe it or not, that's actually OK! Head to the comments and defend your favorite team's ugly uniform.
College Football Teams Set for Huge Turnarounds in 2016
The great thing about college football is that we don't know what we don't know. Want an example? Print out a preseason Top 25 poll and place it right next to the postseason Top 25 released following the national title game. The differences are often stark.
Look at 2015's Associated Press preseason Top 25: Auburn at No. 6. Georgia at No. 9. Meanwhile, Clemson lingered at No. 12 and Oklahoma stood at No. 19. We know how those rankings looked by season's end.
Chances are, the polls released in August will look similarly shortsighted by January 2017. Highly touted teams will falter, and lightly regarded squads will rise. Which teams are in position to make the biggest turnarounds in 2016? We took a look. These squads were determined by factors like the number of starters and key starters returning, favorable schedules and overall opportunity within their respective leagues. Disagree? Let us know.
Best Fits for the Top 10 Uncommitted 2017 QB Recruits
Quarterbacks are a hot commodity at every level of football, and the position's paramount importance is annually illustrated on the college recruiting trail. Most premier passers pick up scholarship offers as underclassmen and routinely announce collegiate intentions well in advance of their senior season.
Among the nation's top 25 quarterback prospects in 247Sports' 2017 composite rankings, 15 are already committed to a university. That collection includes 5-star talents Tate Martell (Texas A&M), Dylan McCaffrey (Michigan) and Hunter Johnson (Clemson).
Here's a glimpse at the top 10 passers who remain uncommitted as their junior year approaches its conclusion, with a focus on where each may find an ideal fit for the future.
Players appear in order based on composite rankings.
Ohio State Pro Day 2016: Live Results for Braxton Miller, Ezekiel Elliott, More
COLUMBUS, Ohio — With a nation-high 14 players invited to last month's NFL Scouting Combine, Ohio State knew it was in for a special day in what Urban Meyer called an "unprecedented" pro day.
And what a spectacle it was.
Representatives from all 32 NFL teams—including multiple head coaches and general managers—flocked to the Woody Hayes Athletic Center on Friday to watch a total of 22 prospects attempt to better their NFL hopes. Of the crop of talented ex-Buckeyes, seven currently project as first-round picks, according to Bleacher Report NFL draft lead writer Matt Miller, with two others slotted to land in the second round.
"This is as big of a pro day probably in the history of the NFL and Ohio State," Meyer said midway through the exhibition.
With a handful of players having already excelled at the combine in Indianapolis, not every prospect participated in all of Friday's workouts. And while Ohio State doesn't release official results, below is the best collection of unofficial information that could be gathered on Friday.
Jones-ing for a Shot
After being unable to participate in extensive workouts at the combine because of a hamstring injury, Friday's pro day was especially important for quarterback Cardale Jones. After an up-and-down 2015 that saw him saw him move in and out of the Buckeyes' starting lineup, the national championship-winning quarterback had plenty to prove in his last significant action before individual team workouts begin.
"The stakes are already high," Jones said after his workout.
Attempting 82 passes in 31 minutes, according to ESPN's Austin Ward, Jones put on quite the show in what felt like the main event of Friday's festivities. Throwing to his former teammates and fellow NFL hopefuls, the 6'5", 250-pound Jones wasn't shy to put the deep ball that helped him carry the Buckeyes to the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship on display.
In addition to his cannon-like arm, Jones also hoped to show that he was more than just a one-trick pony during his workout.
"That was one of my main focus points of today, showing touch and accuracy," Jones said. "I don't think anyone in their right mind would question my arm strength."
Grading his efforts as a B-plus on the day, it remains to be seen just how much Jones helped or hurt his draft stock with his pro-day performance. Of all the Ohio State prospects, Jones might be the toughest player to pin a projection to, as he could land anywhere from the second day of the draft to potentially going undrafted.
"I don't feed into all that," the Cleveland native insisted. "I just want to get my foot in the door."
Braxton Back in Action
After running a relatively disappointing 4.50-second 40-yard dash at the scouting combine, quarterback-turned-wideout Braxton Miller set out to prove that he is indeed one of the draft's fastest players.
Based on the 40 time he ran on Friday, it'd be tough to argue otherwise, as the two-time Big Ten Player of the Year clocked in with an unofficial—and, if accurate, blazing—4.35.
"Just show that I wasn't a 4.5 at the combine," Miller said of his pro-day goal. "My speed, I cherish that, I take pride in that, so I had to come out here and showcase what I did today."
With his speed no longer in question—as if it ever was—Miller remains a work in progress as a wideout as evidenced by his workout with Jones. On some routes, the 6'2", 210-pounder looked like the natural that he is, gliding down the field both before and after snagging impressive catches. On others, he looked like a player less than a year into playing the position on a full-time basis.
Voted the Senior Bowl's most impressive player in practice by NFL executives, Miller has seemingly done nothing but boost his draft stock throughout the past few months. Bleacher Report's Matt Miller currently projects the Cincinnati Bengals to take him in the first round with the draft's No. 24 pick.
Still with plenty to polish as a route-runner, Miller will ultimately be drafted more on his potential than anything else. But after Friday, this much is certain: The ability is there—and so is the speed.
"I've never ran a 4.5. I've never ran that. That's why I was so upset," Miller said of his combine time. "Something isn't right with that laser timer."
Bosa's Big Day
Of all of the sights in Columbus on Friday, perhaps the most interesting didn't come from a former Buckeye but a future one.
In town to support his brother, Ohio State signee and 2016 5-star prospect Nick Bosa watched from the sideline as Joey Bosa ran through drills. Breaking Meyer's cardinal rule of wearing blue in the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, the younger Bosa donned both a shirt and hat representing the Tennessee Titans, who just so happen to hold the NFL draft's No. 1 pick.
"That was his idea," Nick and Joey's father, John Bosa, a first-round pick of the Miami Dolphins in 1987, said of his younger son's wardrobe choice.
Having seen his draft stock seemingly slip in the past few weeks after a ho-hum combine performance, Bosa looked good on Friday, improving both his bench press (28 reps) and 40-yard dash (4.78, per the NFL Network). In his latest mock, Matt Miller had the All-American defensive end sliding to the Baltimore Ravens at the No. 6 pick after he entered the draft process in contention for its No. 1 overall slot.
With more than a month left until the draft's first round on April 28, Bosa has plenty of time to further better his draft stock as he appeared to do on Friday.
And while the younger Bosa may ultimately have to invest in a new selection of NFL team gear come the draft, it will only be a few more years until he's the one garnering all of the attention at the Ohio State pro day.
Ben Axelrod is Bleacher Report's Big Ten lead writer. You can follow him on Twitter @BenAxelrod. Unless noted otherwise, all quotes were obtained firsthand. All statistics courtesy of CFBStats.com. Recruiting rankings courtesy of 247Sports.
Read more College Football news on BleacherReport.com
Ranking Every SEC Team's 2016 Schedule from Easiest to Hardest
Life in the SEC is tough. No other conference had a better record against Power Five competition in 2015, and no other conference won more postseason games last year.
And considering all SEC teams have to play eight games against the members of their powerful conference each season, everyone has a hard schedule of some kind. That strength of schedule will only increase moving forward, as 2016 will mark the first year that every member has to play at least one other Power Five team in nonconference play.
But not all schedules are created equal, especially in a conference that isn't exactly balanced between its two divisions. Some SEC teams are bolder than others when it comes to scheduling nonconference games, too.
With that in mind, let's rank every SEC team's 2016 schedule from the easiest to the hardest. These rankings are based on the combined 2015 records of a team's 2016 FBS opponents, number of 2015 bowl and 2016 composite preseason Top 25 teams, location of games and spacing of the toughest opponents.
Which SEC team do you think has the toughest schedule in 2016? Which one do you think has a slate that deserves more preseason respect? Sound off in the comments below.
Jahair Jones Charges Dropped from Arrest: Latest Details, Reaction
University of Miami offensive tackle Jahair Jones was cleared of the charge against him Thursday following a Wednesday night arrest.
Continue for updates.Police Spokesman Explains Dismissal of Jones' Charge Friday, March 11
According to Susan Miller Degnan of the Miami Herald, he will not be prosecuted on a charge of resisting an officer without violence during a traffic stop, and it is expected that his teammate—Trevor Darling—will receive the same result after getting arrested along with Jones.
Per Miller Degnan, the arrest affidavit said that both men were in the middle of the roadway and impeding traffic. They were then arrested after ignoring multiple orders from police to remove themselves from the area.
Following the dismissal of Jones' charges, Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office spokesman Ed Griffith explained the reasoning: "They determined the arrest form was legally insufficient to substantiate the criminal charge."
According to Miller Degnan, University of Miami athletic director Blake James acknowledged the arrests of Jones and Darling on Thursday in a written statement: "I am aware of the reported incident involving two student-athletes last night and we are still gathering information. I have very high expectations for all of our student-athletes, as I know Coach [Mark] Richt does for his team, and any misconduct will be addressed."
The 19-year-old Jones is a redshirt sophomore who transferred to Miami from ASA College in New York.
Jones has yet to appear in a game for the Hurricanes, but the Brooklyn, New York, native figures to have an opportunity to earn some playing time in 2016.
While his legal issues are no longer a factor following Thursday's dismissal, it isn't yet clear if Jones will face any repercussions from the university.
Follow @MikeChiari on Twitter.
Read more College Football news on BleacherReport.com
Watch 4-Star ATH Bruce Judson Make Sick Catches off Diving Board
Making awesome catches off diving boards is one of our nation's most cherished pastimes. And as cool as you thought you looked making that one-handed grab off your grandma's diving board that one time, chances are 4-star athlete Bruce Judson did it better.
Watch the coveted prospect out of Cocoa, Florida, make sick catches off the diving board in the video above.
Special thanks to the Cocoa YMCA.
Recruit info and rankings courtesy of 247Sports.
Read more College Football news on BleacherReport.com


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More than 20 graduates will suit up for Alabama's game against LSU in the BCS National Football Championship Game on Jan. 9 in New Orleans
Came to Alabama to play football, joined the baseball team in the spring of 2011 ... redshirted in 2008 and did not see any action in 2009 or 2010.
High School: Was a standout as a prep baseball and basketball player at McGill-Toolen ... as a junior outfielder, hit .350 with two home runs, 32 RBI and 10 stolen bases ... was rated the No. 12 player in the state of Alabama by SuperPrep magazine ... named to The Mobile Press-Register's Elite 18 and the Super Southeast 120 (No. 72) ... Alabama Sports Writers Association honorable mention All-State ... received a four-star rating from Rivals.com and was listed as the No. 16 player on the Alabama Top 35 list ... also rated the No. 17 strong side defensive end nationally by Rivals ... recognized as one of Scout.com's Stars of Alabama ... a three-star recruit according to Scout.com... No. 126 player on the Scout.com Southeast 150 list.
Personal: Born Glenn M. Harbin on September 14, 1989, in Mobile, Ala. ... is the son of Glenn and Michelle Harbin ... father Glenn attended Alabama State and his mother graduated from South Alabama ... is one of five children, has two older brothers named Myron and Vernon, an older sister named Kim, and a younger sister named Danielle ... brother Myron played football at Alabama ... majoring in Consumer Affairs.

subset: commoncrawl


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Event Raises Awareness of Abuse Through Partnership with Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence – Benefiting Broken But Not Bound Movement
10.21.2010– ATLANTA–Tyler Perry's anticipated film, "For Colored Girls," will screen in a private viewing Nov. 5, 2010, at Atlantic Station Regal Cinemas 8:30-10:30 PM. An adaption of Ntozake Shange's award-winning play, Perry successfully transfers the intensity of Shange's work from print onto the big screen. With an A-List lineup including Whoopi Goldberg, Kerry Washington, Loretta Devine, Anika Noni Rose, Thandie Newton, Kimberly Elise, Phylicia Rashad, Janet Jackson and Macy Gray; For Colored Girls chronicles the adversities of the female characters.
Through partnership with the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV), "For Colored Girls" will show in Atlanta as part of a targeted campaign to raise awareness of abuse in various forms. The program benefits Broken but not Bound Movement, an Atlanta-based organization established to empower, encourage and equip individuals who have endured molestation, rape, physical abuse and mental abuse.
Genna Sapia-Ruffin, former spouse of Temptations legend David Ruffin, will present as a special guest speaker. Ruffin will share the intimate and emotional testimony of her life with David Ruffin, along with her subsequent salvation.
Accredited members of the media are invited to take part is a special reception prior to the movie screening 8:30-9:00pm in the Atlantic Station Regal Cinemas Atrium. Special invited guests will be in attendance at the reception, and time will be allotted for interviewing and photo op's. Media RSVP should be forwarded to Arit Essien at email@example.com.
Tickets for the viewing benefitting the Broken but Not Bound Movement, may be purchased at http://4coloredmovie.eventbrite.com
Click Here to See The For Colored Girls Trailer
What: Tyler Perry's "For Colored Girls" Private Screening
Abuse Awareness Fundraising Event
When: Nov 5, 8:30-10:30 PM (Reception 8:30-9:00 PM)
Who: Special Guest Speaker Genna Sapia-Ruffin, former spouse of Temptations Legend David Ruffin, Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Where: Atlantic Station Regal Cinemas
261 19th Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30363
About Broken But Not Bound Movement
BBNB Movement is designed to Empower, Encourage and Equip those that have endured molestation, rape, physical abuse and mental abuse. With the understanding of God's love, self love, self worth, self respect, confidence, boldness, forgiveness, strength, perseverance to become the person God has designed you to be. We are here to proclaim from state to state, city to city and country to country that though Jesus Christ there is restoration! You may be broken but NEVER BOUND.
About Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence
(GCADV) brings together member agencies, allied organizations and supportive individuals who are committed to ending domestic violence. Guided by the voices of survivors, we work to create social change by addressing the root causes of this violence. GCADV leads advocacy efforts for responsive public policy and fosters quality, comprehensive prevention and intervention services throughout the state.
Media Contact
Arit Essien
Essien Agency


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Forget being a Carrie, Miranda, Samantha or Charlotte. True romantics consider themselves a Lizzie, Elinor, Marianne or Emma.
And now Jane Austen fans have a chance to own a piece of the author's jewelry collection—well, those who have around $50K to splurge, anyway.
Today reports a simple yet stunning turquoise ring in a gold setting is set to hit the Sotheby's auction block next month and is expected to fetch up to $46,000.
The ring originally belonged to Austen, the author of such classics as Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility and Emma. After her death, it was given to her sister, Cassandra, who then gave it to her sister-in-law Eleanor. It has stayed in the family until now.
"When I first heard about the ring, my initial thought was, 'Well this will be a few minutes of my time to tell this family why it's probably not authentic,' " Sotheby's expert Gabriel Heaton tells the news show. "As I heard more of their story, I was astonished that something as exciting as this ring was out there and it was unknown to the Austen community. It's exactly what you would imagine on Jane Austen's finger: tasteful, simple, elegant and beautifully formed."
Wait. Can we just be a Jane?
Click here to read the full story.
Click here to read another fascinating news story.
Don't miss out on MORE great articles like this one. Click here to sign up for our weekly newsletter!


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NASA Administrator Charles Bolden and House Science Committee Chair Rep. Lamar Smith, R-TX are having a fight over the first direction to send astronauts beyond low Earth orbit, according to an April 3, 2014 post on the Space Politics blog. Bolden, following the Obama administration line, favors the asteroid redirect mission. Smith would like to send to astronauts of a flyby mission around Venus and Mars in the early 2020s. Bolden trashed the interplanetary mission as not being inspiring and not helpful toward the eventual goal of a Mars landing in the 2030s. Smith shot back that Bolden was misrepresenting the flyby mission.
NASA Watch's Keith Cowing wishes a plague on both their houses.
"ARM is not without its fiscal problems and fundamental flaws. If the whole idea of ARM is to give Orion/SLS system a test in deep space then they should actually send a crew *to* an asteroid IN DEEP SPACE. Grabbing an asteroid and then bringing it back to a location close to Earth via robot such that Orion can visit it totally undermines the purpose of a deep space test. It's like lowering a basketball hoop to make it easier for you to sink the ball. Your test now becomes a stunt. It would be vastly simpler and less expensive to send a robotic mission to characterize the target asteroid - if asteroid characterization was the main goal.
"If a true test of Orion/SLS systems in a risky environment - for a first flight - was the goal, then NASA should do just that. But to suggest that a Mars Flyby is a good way to do this test is to run in the exact opposite direction - for a first mission. Operating much closer to Earth ARM has the virtue of providing a contingency return if any critical systems fail on their first flight. Mars Flyby commits to everything with no way to abort. The crew is along for a 500+ day ride no matter what.
"So ARM is too wimpy and Mars Flyby is too risky. How do we test Orion/SLS? And oh yes, everyone is waving their arms as to whether either mission 'helps us get to Mars'. Well, if you have already decided that Orion/SLS is the only (preferred) way you want to send humans to Mars then ANY flight has to provide some value. Of course some missions provide more bang for the buck than others. So people saying that it doesn't help us get to Mars are simply playing politics with their preferred mission. "
Cowing went on to put his finger on the main problem with uncommon pithiness. "Here's the problem: NASA has no firm plan, goals, destinations, and it doesn't even have the slightest hint of any evidence that a budget significant enough to make Mars exploration possible is in the cards."
It should be noted that NASA used to have a firm plan and a destination. Under the now defunct Constellation program it was to return to the moon by 2020. But former President Bush did not fund his own proposal adequately and President Obama blew it up in 2010, with the dolorous consequences that have occurred ever since.


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News Search
August 29 – Temporary flight restrictions are in place in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area for the Republican Convention from September 1-4.
August 29 – Temporary flight restrictions are in place in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area for the Republican Convention from September 1-4.
RT @PHMSA_DOT: Join our live #TwitterChat TOMORROW from 1-3pm ET to discuss the new #EmergencyResponse Guidebook #ERGchat https://t.co/TQC0…
Happy Birthday America! Enjoy the fireworks but remember DC is a #NoDroneZone https://t.co/9SOiibVKPZ #4thOfJuly https://t.co/s2Sru2TbEf
RT @USDOTFHWA: Happy 60th Anniversary Eisenhower #Interstate System! #NHSat60 https://t.co/nGeKxYVG4G https://t.co/7nQIpXSmpw
✈ Traffic Report: Mostly clear skies across the U.S. = minimal delays @ most major airports. https://t.co/6SfCVdDm8W https://t.co/24GQXC2Jz7
In LAX tower: Data Comm enhances safety & reduces delays https://t.co/nhSU5ayWAb #FlyNextGen #TravelTuesday @NATCA https://t.co/XLmCU51YTZ
Wildfires are a #nodronezone. https://t.co/MHMipYSSza
RT @USDOT: New in the Fast Lane: Innovation Begins with Passion https://t.co/EuuB6A7RXD #TechTuesday #InnovationMonth https://t.co/5tfTPTcx…
Pilots: There will be a TFR June 30 in Columbus, OH. Please check NOTAMs. https://t.co/XXkM3HvFpe
GA pilots: Say "no" to Loss of Control #avgeeks #flysafe https://t.co/dXezIi8HbI https://t.co/LOfKa8ognK
✈ Traffic Report: ☁ delays @ BWI, DCA, EWR, IAD, JFK, LGA, PHL ⚡ delays @ ATL, CLT, HOU, IAD https://t.co/6SfCVdlLho https://t.co/ZCgYJNRzWs
✈ Traffic Report: On-time arrivals/departures across U.S. in AM - ⚡ delays across U.S. in PM https://t.co/6SfCVdlLho https://t.co/rZIMwCKhD9
RT @msnbcDocs: Here's a rule-of-thumb about visibility from @FAANews safety tips. #Airplanefacts
RT @NASA: "Millions of Americans have experienced delays after being stuck on the tarmac" - @USDOT @SecretaryFoxx https://t.co/dzygN10veL
RT @USDOT: .@SecretaryFoxx, @NASA Admin. Bolden Launch New #NextGen Aviation Test Lab at @CLTAirport https://t.co/riTeZ2VEDd https://t.co/n…
NextGen benefits at LAX further enhance safety & reduce delays https://t.co/nhSU5ayWAb #aviation #FlyNextGen https://t.co/suL3bOj3Rp
Page last modified: December 30, 2008 12:55:22 PM EST
This page was originally published at: http://www.faa.gov/news/updates/?newsId=56727


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kate hudson wearing a free people romper in california over the weekend…while we were getting buried by snow in philly!
fp spotting!
- -December 21, 2009, 11:02PM
What an awesome actress she is! Now even more awesome that she wears the fp!
- -December 22, 2009, 3:48AM
she's also wearing the FP turquoise road bracelet! she's adorable, and definitely a fan of FP!
- -December 22, 2009, 1:50PM
Hi! I'm pretty sure Kelly wore the Dynasty Shift in Emerald to the Survivor Samoa Live Reunion show. No screen grabs, but it looked like it when she first walked on stage at the start of the episode.
- -December 22, 2009, 3:34PM
Love Kate's style and love the Uggs pairing with the romper- makes it California-winter appropriate (and fun)!
Post a comment


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Town Square
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OTHER TOPICSCounty looks at adding billboards to public land
A report from County Manager John Maltbie caught the attention, and sparked the ire, of the Committee For Green Foothills'...Original post made on Mar. 15, 2016
Last comment by Jack Hickey, on Mar 22, 2016 at 2:28 pm | 26 comments | 2965 Views
OTHER TOPICSCounty looks at adding billboards to public land
The short paragraph in the report from San Mateo County Manager John Maltbie was enough to catch the attention, and spark...Original post made on Mar. 17, 2016
Last comment by Michael G. Stogner, on Mar 22, 2016 at 12:09 pm | 7 comments | 594 Views
SCHOOLS & KIDSMPCSD Parcel Tax political activity?
The Menlo Park City School District spent $37,200 listed as being paid to "Political Designs" Superintendent Ghysels contracted...Original post made by Jack Hickey on Feb. 29, 2016
Last comment by Menlo Voter., on Mar 21, 2016 at 8:33 pm | 28 comments | 1247 Views
AROUND TOWNButterflies and Edgewood Park
Bill Korbholz is an Edgewood Park volunteer who leads tours and works to advance the survival prospects of the endangered...Original post made on Apr. 29, 2013
Last comment by Jack Hickey, on Mar 21, 2016 at 10:57 am | 54 comments | 3797 Views
MENLO PARKM-A student moves needle in aiding heart attack victims
Through the advocacy of Serafina Casey, a Girl Scout and sophomore at Menlo-Atherton High School, residents and visitors...Original post made on Mar. 19, 2016
Last comment by Jon Castor, on Mar 20, 2016 at 11:40 pm | 2 comments | 1599 Views
AROUND TOWNMenlo Park kickstarts redesign of Ravenswood train crossing
Thirteen years ago, Menlo Park decided to look at separating the railroad track crossings at Ravenswood, Encinal, Glenwood...Original post made on Feb. 25, 2015
Last comment by Thierry, on Mar 20, 2016 at 10:26 am | 41 comments | 6060 Views
AROUND TOWNSTYLE Returns to PAMF
STYLE '16 presents gorgeous apparel, jewelry, and accessories by 50 independent designers in an exclusive two-day show,...Original post made by STYLE on Mar. 20, 2016
There are no comments yet. 261 Views
MENLO PARKAtherton venture capitalist Michael Goguen and former mistress sue each other
The dueling lawsuits filed recently by an Atherton venture capitalist and his former mistress paint a sordid tale with accusations...Original post made on Mar. 16, 2016
Last comment by Michael G. Stogner, on Mar 19, 2016 at 1:51 pm | 8 comments | 4373 Views
MENLO PARKHow tragedy transformed a life
Melissa Moody of Menlo Park is the subject of a new documentary on the nature of happiness. After being run over by a truck...Original post made on Jul. 2, 2013
Last comment by Linda, on Mar 19, 2016 at 9:42 am | 11 comments | 15512 Views
ATHERTONUpdate: Marsh Road in Atherton may close for 12 weeks this summer -- not just eight
Updated on March 17: Atherton's public works director has recommended the town completely close its section of Marsh Road...Original post made on Mar. 11, 2016
Last comment by Yikes, safety, on Mar 18, 2016 at 5:51 pm | 30 comments | 6749 Views
AROUND TOWNCustodian sues deputy over courtroom gun incident
A county court custodian filed an amended complaint on Monday (March 14), adding a civil-rights violation to several other...Original post made on Mar. 16, 2016
Last comment by Michael G. Stogner, on Mar 18, 2016 at 5:17 pm | 7 comments | 1626 Views
OTHER TOPICSSunday event to raise funds for wells in Kenya
On Sunday, March 13, rain or shine, students from Woodside Elementary School will hold their seventh annual Walk for Water...Original post made on Mar. 11, 2016
Last comment by Margo, on Mar 18, 2016 at 4:35 pm | 8 comments | 1283 Views
ATHERTONSaturday: Walk to see new plans for Flood Park
To show community members the most recent plans to revitalize the 21-acre Flood Park in Menlo Park, there will be a public...Original post made on Mar. 18, 2016
Last comment by Del Norte Ave Neighbor, on Mar 18, 2016 at 3:45 pm | 2 comments | 1652 Views
MENLO PARKMonday: Greenheart goes to Menlo Park's Planning Commission
Greenheart Land Co. will go before the Menlo Park Planning Commission on Monday, March 21, for a public hearing of the [http://www.menlopark.org/documentcenter/view/9734...Original post made on Mar. 18, 2016
Last comment by Looking forward, on Mar 18, 2016 at 1:45 pm | 2 comments | 405 Views
WOODSIDEPeace Builders help clothe local children
The atmosphere was congenial and energetic at the Woodside Village Church in the twilit semi-darkness of Guild Hall on Feb....Original post made on Mar. 18, 2016
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Pataudi palace
7 Pataudi palace Articles
Sharmila Tagore and Saif Ali Khan slammed with notice for code violation2 years ago 0
The veteran actress and her ladla beta have landed in trouble. Read on to know full story... Sharmila Tagore and her actor-son Saif Ali Khan have… Read Article ▶
What is Kareena Kapoor Khan's new career move?2 years ago 16
Lack of work in Bollywood has pushed the begum of Pataudi to take an alternate job. Read on to know what... Kareena Kapoor Khan is all set to take… Read Article ▶
Kareena Kapoor to restore Pataudi Palace2 years ago 1
Bebo is busy refurnishing the Pataudi palace Kareena Kapoor Khan along with her mother-in-law Sharmila Tagore is busy restoring the Pataudi Palace… Read Article ▶
Sonam Kapoor's Raanjhnaa to give a peek into Saif Ali Khan's Pataudi palace3 years ago 0
And director Anand L Rai has managed to capture most of it through his camera lens The Sonam Kapoor-Dhanush-Abhay Deol starrer Raanjhnaa is… Read Article ▶
Kareena Kapoor-Saif Ali Khan wedding: What were the bride and groom wearing?4 years ago 13
The bride and the groom, we hear, looked simple and sweet in their wedding outfits Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan chose to go for very simple… Read Article ▶
Karisma Kapoor – witness at Saif Ali Khan-Kareena Kapoor marriage!4 years ago 6
The loving couple registered their court marriage this afternoon in the presence of close family Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan finally formalised… Read Article ▶
Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor married!4 years ago 11
All those who thought that the wedding is going to be a bland sign-and-get-married affair it's time to gear up for a surprise A day after Saif Ali… Read Article ▶


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Star Wars BrickMaster AT-TE Mini Set LEGO 20009 [Bagged]
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Lego Star Wars 20009 MINI AT-TE from the Clone Wars. The AT-TE were six legged walking, multi-purpose assault vehicles utilized in transporting battalions of clone troopers into battle as well as staging full scale attacks on Separtist installations. The AT-TE performed various support roles, most notably providing heavy-duty cover fire for soldiers in the field. The AT-TE was frequently deployed on a massive scale to intimidate the enemy with massive firepower. There were six laser cannons on board, four surrounding the cockpit and two covering the rear. One major weapon in the arsenal was a mass driven cannon. This mass driven cannon was capable of a variety of payloads, solid shells, bunker busters, sonic charges to heat-seeking missiles. A specially trained seven-man crew was required for full functionality of the AT-TE. The AT-TE has an onboard electromagnetic shielding making it impenetrable to ion cannons. The AT-TE trudges along at an average speed of 60 kph, thus allowing it to penetrate enemy shields. Able to traverse different terrains, and has the capability of scaling vertical cliffs or structures.
Manufacturer: LEGO
Brand: Star Wars
Series: BrickMaster
Name: AT-TE
Type: Mini Set
Number: 20009
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Brand: Star Wars
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Name: AT-TE
Type: Mini Set
Number: 20009
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Ina Garten's Cole Slaw
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- 1/2 small head green cabbage
- 1/2 small head red cabbage
- 4 large carrots, scrubbed or peeled
- 2 cups (16 ounces) good mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions:Cut the cabbages in half and then in quarters and cut out the cores. Set up the food processor* with the slicing blade (according to manufacturer's instructions) and place the pieces of cabbage, one at a time, lying horizontally in the feed tube. (If they don't fit, cut them to fit lying down.) Place the feed tube pusher on top and turn on the processor. Don't push on the feed tube pusher or the slices will turn out too thick! Continue with the remaining red and green cabbage quarters. Transfer into a large bowl, discarding any very large pieces. Before you pour the dressing on the salad, save a handful of the grated vegetables to decorate for serving.
Change the slicing blade for the large shredding blade and cut the carrots so they also lie down in the feed tube. Since the carrots are hard, replace the feed tube pusher and press firmly with the food processor on. Transfer to bowl with the cabbages.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, both mustards, vinegar, celery salt, kosher salt, and pepper. Pour enough mayonnaise dressing over the grated vegetables and toss to moisten well. Add parsley and toss together. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
This recipe was submitted by one of our readers and has not been tested by our food editors. We are not responsible for errors in this recipe, but if you find one, please let us know.
Updated Monday, February 4th, 2008
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Seattle Quarantine Station
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) operates a quarantine station in Seattle. The station's jurisdiction includes 56 ports in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. The station also supports preclearance ports in Canada: Calgary, Vancouver, Victoria, Edmonton.
Quarantine Station Activities
- Respond to reports of illness or death on airplanes, cargo vessels, and other conveyances at international ports of entry within jurisdiction.
- Review medical records of migrants who will reside permanently in the United States. Notify state and local health departments and refer any migrants with specific medical conditions.
- Partner with Canada on cross-border emergency response planning.
- Monitor importations that may have pathogens infectious to humans.
- Partner with other federal agencies, local and state health departments, private medical providers, and hospitals in preparedness activities related to quarantine and isolation at ports of entry.
Ports of Entry Statistics 2009
Major Airport Arrivals
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
- 2,633,733 international passengers
- 5,401 immigrants and refugees
- 140 weekly direct flights from Asia, Europe, Canada, and Mexico
Portland International Airport
- 446,829 international passengers
Total international passengers: 3,080,559
Major Seaport Arrivals
Washington: 3,415 cargo ships
- Tacoma-Seattle: 3rd-ranked U.S. cargo load center
- Seattle: 875,433 cruise ship passengers
Oregon: 2,446 cargo ships
U.S.-Canada Border Crossings
- Idaho: 466,418 passengers at 2 ports
- Montana: 1,169,378 passengers at 13 ports
- Washington: 11,561,223 passengers at 16 ports
Total crossings: 13,197,019
Contact Information
(206) 553-4519 24-hour access
On call: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Office Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. PT
CDC Seattle Quarantine Station
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
c/o CBP
19339 28th Ave South
Building D
SeaTac, WA 98158
Fax: (206) 553-0855
- Page last reviewed: January 15, 2014
- Page last updated: January 15, 2014
- Content source:


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Let's go loot the Royal Society!
We did it before. Now we have a chance to do it again for 3 months! The Royal Society has announced that on the occasion of its 350th anniversary:
The Royal Society Digital Journal Archive, which dates back to 1665, will be FREE to access from 30 November 2009 until 28 February 2010. The Archive contains every article ever published in the Royal Society's journals.My favorite of them all is Philosophical Transactions, especially for the period from 1665 to about 1780. Those were the formative years of modern science. That was a time when most scientific knowledge was extremely limited and shallow; most scientific experiments and observations were crude and simplistic; most hypotheses the scientists were attempting to test were ridiculous by our standards.
That was when if you had a thermometer—not everyone did—you could measure the temperature in and outside your house and then get the results published in the world's premier scientific journal.
From Philosophical Transactions January 1, 1746, 44:613-616.
But, hey, science had to go thru that infancy period. It was a prerequisite to the present. If they hadn't reported the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, we would be doing that now.
Enough said. I am taking my sack and flash drive and heading over to the Royal Society.


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Are You Interested (or "AYI" as the site calls itself) is one of the first Facebook-centric dating sites. Although you can sign up via email the site's really its most powerful when it's allowed to harness the power of your Facebook network to find you a date. "Online dating for grown-ups made easy" Â is the AYI.com way. The site is fast, flirty, and really, really easy to get started with.
What should you know about AYI.com before signing up?
- AYI is completely, totally free to use and download. Free profiles offer more usability than on some other sites (unlimited IMing, searching, "liking") but there is a Premium Member option (paid) that allows for unlimited conversation with anyone.
- The company was founded in 2007 and has worked with Facebook all along, making it one of the most integrated social dating sites ever. There are over 20,000,000 Facebook users on AYI.com
- Are You Interested's goal is to avoid the pitfalls of online dating (long sign up, lots of "work", bad matches) by harnessing the power of Facebook's proven data points.
- It's most effective to sign up using your personal Facebook account although AYI is discreet. The site won't post on your wall or make any other obvious reference to the fact that you use the service (except to other members.)
- There are lots of ways to find a date. You can browse through thousands of members like traditional dating sites encourage, you can search by "interests" as previously stated on Facebook profiles, or you can search by "Friends of Friends."
- The Friends of Friends function is particularly popular because potential dates are already "vetted" by friends in real life. The app uses your location to display members who live closest to you first, although you can set it to show matches in other cities.
- Once you find someone you like you simply reach out using instant messenger (looks very similar to Facebook chat) and communicate from there. No email exchange, no web cam, nothing fancy.Â
- There's also a "like" function (just like on Facebook!) in which you can thumbs up another member's profile. They'll see your like and potentially reach out to you!
AYI.com is one of the biggest, most millennial-geared dating sites around. If you like sites that are mobile friendly, easy to use, and always updating themselves, this may be the place for you. If you're already on Facebook, what have you got to lose?


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With so much to do in Rome, it's better to focus on taking in the sights of this "eternal city" through a guided tour by Walks of Italy.
This particular tour, especially during the summer time, provides a respite from the searing heat in Rome. Visitors walk through an area mandated by air conditioning to preserve the bones, trail in a line viewing catacombs and go through a tunnel of maze unearthing several layers of churches.
The attractions included in this tour aren't well known but it's a great peek inside the history and culture of Christianity in Rome.
Tour Guide
Linnea hosted an intimate group of five, while training a potential tour guide, throughout the underground secrets of Rome, including bones, catacombs and crypts. The attractions appear as normal buildings from the outside, not screaming out to happenstance tourists.
Well-versed in English, Linnea pokes fun about death at the Capuchin Crypt, knows all the tunnels throughout the Catacombs of Priscilla and shares her fascination with history and art of the Basilica of San Clemente.
Linnea was a wonderful, intelligent, professional and compassionate guide. She was patient with everyone's questions, stopping at souvenir shops, taking photographs and provided detailed understandable responses, frequently with humor. Our pace was steady as she gently guided us along, ensuring we covered all the important aspects of our tour. Her passion for ancient Roman history, along with her breadth and depth of understanding of this time period were quite impressive.
To ensure your prompt arrival, the tour company provides maps and images of the meeting spot. In addition, the tour company present VIP entrances to all attractions, skipping long line of customers to continue the tour without big breaks.
Price Point
Depending on season, currency rates, and availability, this tour starts at $87 per adult.
- Catacombs of Santa Priscilla
- Earliest Known Depiction of the Virgin Mary
- Capuchin Crypt – Decorated with Human Bones
- Basilica of San Clemente (NOTE - The tour commences in Piazza Barberini and ends at the church of St. Clement.)
Three hours and 30 minutes
Fun facts from the tour
The Capuchin Friars belong to a Roman Catholic religious order of brothers and priests, inspired by the ideals of St. Francis.
The Catacombs of Priscilla, managed by the Benedictine order of nuns, possess the niche with the oldest image in existence of the Virgin Mary.
In 1857, Father Joseph Mullooly, the then Prior of San Clemente, began excavations under the present basilica, uncovering in the process not only the original, fourth-century basilica directly underneath, but also at a still lower level, the remains of an earlier, first-century building.
Walks of Italy
U.S. Phone Number: +1-888-683-8670
Email: email@example.com
Address: Via santa Maria dell'Anima 48/A 00186 Rome, Italy
Il Convento dei Cappuccini di Via Veneto
Italy Phone Number: 06/88, 803,695
Email: email@example.com
Address: Via Veneto 27, Rome 00187
Catacombs of Priscilla
Italy Phone Number: 06-86206272
Address: Via Salaria, 430-00199 Roma
Basilica San Clemente
Italy Phone Number: +39-06-7740021
Email: email@example.com
Address: Via Labicana, 95 Roma 00184 Italia
Tips #1: Visitors will enter churches, requiring respectful dress, not showing shoulders and knees.
Tips #2: These websites do not list gift shops as part of a way to purchase after returning home. Find your treasures when you visit the attractions.
Tips #3: Walks of Italy offers shuttles to drive between the attractions. It's a great way to drive through the streets of Rome without renting a car.


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College Hockey:Contributions from freshmen help Army climb the Atlantic Hockey standings
It's going to be tough to outdo last season in terms of excitement, but Atlantic Hockey is poised for a strong second half. While not as ridiculously tight as last season, the standings are bunched up again with eight teams within five points.
The league has its best non-conference record since 2006 and has three teams in the PairWise Rankings. First-place Niagara is ranked 17th in the latest USCHO.com Division I Men's Poll.
At the holiday break, let's break down some of the most interesting story lines so far:
Breakout team of the first half
The Army Black Knights, picked to finish 10th in the preseason poll, have been the surprise of the league so far. After finishing 3-19-5 and scoring a league-low 52 goals last season, Army, despite having 13 freshmen on the roster, is third in the AHA in winning percentage at 5-2-2 and is averaging more than a goal a game better than in 2011-12.
Seven of those freshmen have scored goals so far, including Thane Heller, who is tied for the team lead with senior Andy Starczewski at five. Senior Ryan Leets has a .911 save percentage and his four wins tie his career high set two seasons ago.
The Black Knights' remaining schedule has a modest .496 winning percentage and they have already beaten Holy Cross and Bentley, teams expected to finish near the top of the Eastern scheduling pod. In other words, the first half was no fluke.
Breakout player of the first half
Niagara goaltender Carsen Chubak suffered a season-ending knee injury in the first game of the 2011-12 season but came back with a vengeance this year. The junior has posted some amazing numbers so far: a nation's-best .959 save percentage and 1.25 goals against average.
His five shutouts so far are also best in the country.
"He's in a zone right now, both in games and in practice," Niagara coach Dave Burkholder told me in early November.
He's still there, leading the Purple Eagles to a 9-0-1 league record and a five-point lead in the standings.
Team most in need of the break
The Sacred Heart Pioneers are the only winless team in Division I, and you have to look no further than a 4.75 team GAA to see why. Sacred Heart also went through a stretch of 43 straight power-play chances without converting, so things aren't happening offensively either (2.25 goals scored per game).
I saw Sacred Heart a couple of weeks ago, and the Pioneers didn't play like a winless team, blocking a lot of shots and getting some good chances in the offensive zone. Bright spots include senior Eric Delong and sophomore Brian Sheehan, who share the team lead in scoring with 14 points each.
Coach C.J. Marottolo said that he was happy to get a chance to reassess some things.
"We're getting a break right now," he told USCHO after a 5-2 loss at Rochester Institute of Technology on Dec. 8. "We don't play again 'til Dec. 31. We'll evaluate it. We'll look at some video. Talk about some things. We'll get back after Christmas with a new attitude. There's a lot of hockey left to be played. We'll look at the second half with a vengeance."
Team poised for a second-half surge
Robert Morris is sitting in eighth place but is fifth in winning percentage.
"We've got games in hand on almost everyone [all but Army and Canisius]," coach Derek Schooley said. "But games in hand are only good if you win them."
Robert Morris is 3-1-1 in conference games, including wins over Quinnipiac and Ohio State. The Colonials are 19th in the PairWise Rankings and could make some serious noise with a good performance at the inaugural Three Rivers Classic tournament on Dec. 28 and Dec. 29. RMU will play Penn State in the first round and then either Ohio State or Miami.
After that, it's into league play for 18 more contests. The Colonials have yet to play any of the teams behind them in the standings, so there's plenty of chances to move up the standings in the new year.
Roughest road ahead
This hasn't been a banner year for Rochester Institute of Technology, with the Tigers sitting in a tie for eighth place at the break. RIT has been playing better recently, undefeated in its last three games and ending the first half of the season with a 2-2 tie at Niagara, the only blemish on the Purple Eagles' conference schedule to date.
But RIT faces the toughest schedule in Atlantic Hockey. Its remaining conference games are against teams with a combined winning percentage of .598.
Here's the breakdown:
Remaining strength of schedule
|Air Force
|American International
|Holy Cross
|Sacred Heart
|Robert Morris
One last thought: Midseason all-stars
There's still a lot of hockey to be played with most teams having 16 or 17 league games left on a 27-conference-game schedule. But here are some of the better performances to date:
Midseason all-conference
• Brett Gensler, Bentley: He was the AHA's leading scorer last season and is so far again. His 26 points are best in Division I.
• Giancarlo Iuorio, Niagara: The senior has 12 goals so far, tied for best in the nation.
• Andy Starczewski, Army: He had to carry the team offensively last season, but is having an even better year (16 points so far) with some help.
• Steve Weinstein, Bentley: The sophomore is averaging a point a game from the blue line, tops in the nation.
• Chris Saracino, RIT: A healthy Saracino is a bright spot for the Tigers. The senior captain has 14 points and averaging 0.88 points per game, tied for fourth nationally.
Rookie of the half-year — Matt Blomquist, Bentley: He's the highest scoring freshman defenseman in Division I, and is seventh overall among rookies.
MVP of the half-year — Carsen Chubak, Niagara: In a season of excellent goaltending around the league and the nation, Chubak stands out.
Coach of the half-year — Brian Riley, Army: The Black Knights are contending for a first-round bye despite the challenges of a rookie-laden roster.
Best wishes
USCHO's Atlantic Hockey coverage will resume on Dec. 27 with a look at the upcoming holiday tournaments. Until then, Happy Holidays!
USCHO covers Atlantic Hockey all week long on the Atlantic Hockey Blog, with weekend recaps on Monday, picks on Friday, and updates during the week.
The following is a self-policing forum for discussing views on this story. Comments that are derogatory, make personal attacks, are abusive, or contain profanity or racism will be removed at our discretion. USCHO.com is not responsible for comments posted by users. Please report any inappropriate or offensive comments by clicking the "Flag" link next to that comment in order to alert the moderator.
Please also keep "woofing," taunting, and otherwise unsportsmanlike behavior to a minimum. Your posts will more than likely be deleted, and worse yet, you reflect badly on yourself, your favorite team and your conference.


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Each sign of the zodiac is assigned to one
of three qualities.
The Twelve Sectors
Different areas of your life and personality
are influenced by the planets.
The Qualities of the Mutable Signs:
Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces
The Mutable signs' prepare for change
into the next season. This makes the people of this group
highly adaptable, flexible and communicative. Throw a curve
to a Mutable sign and they can turn on a dime, coming up with
solutions faster than you can bat an eye. Mutable signs are
restless and embrace change. They are the most resourceful
of all the signs, and thus, they make much from little. They
are highly detail-oriented, but should take care not to get
so wound up in tiny particulars that they lose sight of the
Mutable quality, Air element: Gemini's need for stimulation
can not be overstated. Highly intellectual, Gemini needs news
and information like oxygen. Being an Air sign, Gemini enjoys
the exchange of ideas with others--this is no loner. The sound
of a phone's dial tone is as comforting to Gemini as the sound
of a mama's heartbeat to a baby. One Gemini friend has confessed
that her fax machine going off sounds like the love call between
two mating whales, a sound that thrills her because it means
news is on the way (we will be sure to get my friend professional
help soon). Seriously, being an adaptable Mutable sign, Gemini's
mind is always going at the speed of light. They can put various
pieces of information together in a multitude of ways, and
this makes them quite good at figuring things out, be they
instructions to the VCR, the facts of a murder case, or the
intricacies of the Congressional budget. Gemini can change
their position as quickly as they assimilate new information,
remaining at all times objective. Gemini's downfall? Their
adeptness at handling several things at once can lead them
to assume too much responsibility. At that point they can
become scattered or begin to procrastinate. If they stay focused,
they can accomplish more in a day than most of us do in a
Mutable quality, Earth element: Virgo is more practical
than Gemini and just as intelligent. This sign seeks to devote
its substantial communicative talents to concrete goals. Virgo
is less likely than Gemini to become scattered by trying to
do too many things, and yet more likely than Gemini to become
bogged down in the details. Virgo's fastidiousness and precision
is unmatched by any other sign. They polish their work until
it shines, for Virgo's overwhelming desire is to feel productive.
Don't tell a Virgo to relax and chill out, for most members
of this sign have not quite mastered that ability. They feel
badly if they waste time. Being an Earth sign, their powers
of organization are amazing and it's this skill which gets
Virgo tangible results they can measure, compare, assess and
perfect (a Virgo word if there ever was one). But Virgo isn't
rigid--far from it. Virgo's Mutability allows for a willing
flexibility and razor-sharp course corrections mid-way, an
asset Virgo keeps hidden up their laundered and starched white
Mutable quality, Fire element: Sagittarius expresses its
hefty intellect in the realms of philosophy and spirituality.
People of this group also enjoy delving into the differences
and similarities of various cultures. Sagittarius' Fire nature
craves adventure and likes to feel a sense of exploration
in the projects he takes on. Whereas Gemini focuses on the
daily details of current events, Sagittarius focuses on the
underlying moral or ethical implications of issues, past or
present. Like all Mutable signs, Sadge is curious, but it's
pro-active Fire element makes Sadge the sign most likely to
explore and debate hypothetical situations (communication
being the dominant quality of a Mutable sign). For a fun time,
they listen to National Public Radio and watch Meet the Press.
Keeping up with this high octane Mutable/Fire sign is hard,
but well worth the effort.
Mutable quality, Water element: Pisces use their Mutable
nature to explore and adjust to the feelings (Water's domain)
of others around them. Since Mutable signs are communicative,
Pisces takes the concerns of those around them seriously and
will always offer information, sympathy, advice--whatever
is appropriate to the situation. Pisces' ability to adapt
is so strong that he almost literally becomes the person he
is trying to help and he often does not see the borders of
where he stops and the other person begins. This can be hard
on Pisces, for long after the other person has settled whatever
has troubled them, Pisces' strong intellect continues to chew
on the ramifications and various issues involved. They need
closure, so if you ask a Pisces for advice, be sure to let
him know later what action you took and the results you experienced.
If you don't, your Pisces will be in a perpetual state of
anxiety over your condition. One last word: show appreciation
to your Pisces. Taking too big an advantage of Pisces' good
nature is a cosmic no-no.
Click here to get your daily forecastdirect to your email or PC.
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MASA Brings Diaspora Youth for the Israel Experience
The MASA Project held a conference for youths winding up their one-year experience in Israel.
By Yoni Kempinski
First Publish: 5/4/2010, 9:11 PM / Last Update: 5/5/2010, 12:07 AM
MASA, the Hebrew word for "Journey," is a strategic partnership between the Jewish Agency and the Government of Israel. MASA brings boys and girls on a yearlong experience in Israel through a wide variety of programs.
On Tuesday, MASA held a special conference titled "The Next Step". The day included discussion, enrichment, and provision of tools to prepare MASA project participants toward their next step.
In the following video Arutz Sheva TV speaks with the CEO of MASA and with one of the many young members of the Jewish Agency who were at the event to answer Aliyah-related questions from the MASA participants.
Tags: Jewish World


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John Cena confirms pre-Wrestlemania drug test
Mar 25, 2012 - by Steve Gerweck
John Cena via Twitter:
"Hey @espn @SportsCenter drug test 7days from the dance. Looks like Aegis also wants to see a clean fight."
"Drug testing is @wwe policy since 05/06. Im happy because im proud that @wwe is committed to health of superstars #drugfree4life."