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NCAA Football News
Watch Out, UCLA and Utah: The Pac-12 Has a History of Wacky Thursday Games
Maybe it's the national spotlight. Perhaps it's the different preparation routine that goes into playing on a weekday rather than a Saturday.
Whatever the reason, Thursday nights seem more conducive to the unpredictable.
"I think it's the first time since I've been head coach that we had a bye week followed by a Thursday night game," Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham said on Tuesday's Pac-12 coaches teleconference. "You want to balance the bye week and accomplish two things: No. 1, get your players rested and get some bumps and bruises healed up."
"But No. 2, you don't want to lose your edge," he added.
Twelve days of preparation leading up to this Pac-12 South showdown should have both the Utes and Bruins itching for action, the result of which could be another classic.
Utah has been involved in some of the most memorable Thursday night games of recent years.
The path to the 2009 Sugar Bowl went through Thursday night twice. Twice, the Utes escaped in dramatic fashion, preserving their undefeated mark with wins over TCU and Oregon State by a field goal each.
Utah scored 11 points in under two minutes to secure the win over current conference foe Oregon State.
Appropriately enough, Utah's tradition for winning close, Thursday-night contests commemorated the start of 2013.
The Utes avenged their 2012 loss to Utah State on Aug. 29, winning 30-26.
UCLA's last Thursday night conference tilt on Oct. 20, 2011, featured a melee and a streaker dressed as a referee.
So yeah, the Bruins know firsthand about bizarre Thursdays.
With similar hard-nosed defenses and big-play quarterbacks, this one has the potential to be another must-see installment of Thursday night football.
Utah's aforementioned win over Utah State was the first of three games involving Utah this season decided by single digits. The others: a seven-point win over rival BYU and a three-point, overtime loss to Oregon State.
Conversely, UCLA has yet to be tested in its three games.
Sure, Nebraska built a 21-3 lead over the Bruins in the first half of Week 3, but they responded with 38 straight points and turned the second half into a cakewalk.
Utah has a much different makeup than the Cornhuskers though, relying on its stout defense to set the tone.
UCLA head coach Jim Mora touted the Utes' "discipline" under Whittingham, particularly on the defensive end.
Central to UCLA's explosive offense is redshirt sophomore quarterback Brett Hundley. The dynamic playmaker employs a style similar to that of Utah's Week 1 opponent, Utah State quarterback Chuckie Keeton.
Keeton passed for 314 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for another 85 and one score in the Aggies' losing effort. With more weapons around him, Hundley poses a significant threat to the Utah defense.
"Very good," Whittingham chuckled when asked to assess the Bruin offense on Tuesday's Pac-12 coaches teleconference. "Probably the biggest problem we had defensively was Hundley escaping on third down [in last year's game]."
"They're a lot better offensive team this year than last year," Whittingham added.
Utah is operating in a similar manner with sophomore quarterback Travis Wilson. The San Clemente, Calif., product made his collegiate debut in the Utes' 21-14 loss last season at the Rose Bowl.
Whittingham said the "consistency and continuity" Wilson has provided was an element missing from Utah's offense for the last four seasons.
Offensive coordinator Dennis Erickson, who Whittingham said was hired to "jump-start the offense," has done just that. The Utes are averaging 42 points per game.
"Dennis is a great football mind, and he's very good at exploiting what he sees as perceived weaknesses in the team he's playing," Mora said.
So each offense is founded on a dual-threat quarterback. Both defenses have leaders adept at flushing opposing quarterbacks from the pocket and limiting their options.
To wit, Utah has accrued 16 sacks through four games, and UCLA has 21 tackles for loss in three outings.
The similarities make for an intriguing matchup—one that could be low scoring like last year's encounter or a shootout akin to Utah's Week 3 encounter with Oregon State.
Either way, expect the unexpected.
Kyle Kensing is the Pac-12 Lead Writer. All quotes were obtained firsthand, unless otherwise noted. Follow Kyle on Twitter: @kensing45.
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Freshmen Report Card Grades Through Week 5
It was not a banner week for America's top freshmen, many of whom watched their teams (and specific units) suffer the worst defeats of their season.
Most of the nation's top youngsters are not accustomed to losing. Because of how dominant they were in high school, the feeling of getting beat up is completely new.
How will they respond from a Week 5 shellacking? Did they learn from the experience of embarrassment, or did it stunt their ripe self-confidence?
Only time will tell.
Note: The players graded are the top six prospects from 247Sports' composite rankings; one player from outside the top six who has stuck out; and one (very) superlative redshirt.
Texas AD DeLoss Dodds Steps Down, Why Mack Brown Will Soon Follow
Texas athletic director DeLoss Dodds announced Tuesday his plans to step down as the Longhorns AD. The news of Dodds stepping down was first reported by Chip Brown of Orangebloods.com on September 13.
In his 32-year tenure, Dodds has helped build Texas into one of the top-revenue producing athletic departments in the country, according to USA Today. Dodds said his early announcement gives the University of Texas time to step in and find new leadership.
"I don't think there is a perfect time to [step down]," Dodds said Tuesday. "We could be 4-0 or we could be 0-4 in football and we would be sitting here doing this. It's about doing something at the right time."
What determines October 1 as the "right time"?
Is it a coincidence that Dodds' announcement of his plans to step down as Texas AD came two days after USC fired head football coach Lane Kiffin?
Did Derek Howard, the attorney of former Texas track and field coach Bev Kearney, planning to file Kearney's discrimination lawsuit the first week of October affect the announcement?
Or was Dodds' announcement the perfect exit strategy to put him ahead of the storm that could erupt in the Texas athletics department, depending on the outcome of the 108th Red River Rivalry on October 12?
It's easy to speculate about the timing of Dodds announcing his plans to step down as AD, but regardless of the reason, Dodds' announcement only adds fuel to the fire of those wondering what Mack Brown's future is at Texas.
Dodds has been Mack Brown's No. 1 fan since the day he hired him. Following the Longhorns 40-21 loss at BYU, Dodds told the Austin American Statesman that Brown still had his full support.
"Mack's fine," Dodds told the Statesman. "I know we didn't play well on Saturday. Mack will know if he should be coaching (at Texas) or shouldn't be."
Having his boss' support has extended Brown's career at Texas. When questions surfaced about Brown's job security after the combined 13-12 record in 2010 and 2011, Dodds and University of Texas president Bill Powers hushed the critics by extending Brown's contract.
"We want Mack Brown to be the University of Texas football coach for as long as he wants," Dodds and Powers said in a joint statement Jan. 24, 2012. "Consequently, we are recommending that the UT System Board of Regents extend Coach Brown's contract an additional four years, taking it to 2020."
The regents approved Brown's contract extension, but thinking Brown will stick around until 2020 is foolish.
Without Dodds in the picture, Mack Brown's future at Texas looks bleak. Powers said the nationwide search for Dodds' replacement begins Tuesday. In his Tuesday press conference, Dodds said the new AD needs to have a hand in any significant changes made in the athletic department, but would not comment on such changes.
Dodds' stepping down could answer a big question many Texas football fans have been asking since 2010: When will Brown walk away from coaching?
Questioning Mack Brown's future at Texas is no longer an "if," but rather a "when?"
If Texas suffers a fourth straight blow out by Oklahoma on October 12, one could only expect to see Mack Brown's name on the checklist of changes for the Longhorns new athletic director.
Unless otherwise noted, all quotes were obtained firsthand.
Follow Taylor of Twitter: @Taylor_Gaspar
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Notre Dame Football: Travel Guide for Fans Headed to Shamrock Series in Texas
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Arizona State Sun Devils will face off in the home of the Dallas Cowboys this Saturday for only the third meeting between these two programs (ND currently holds a 2-0 series advantage). This year's ASU squad has certainly caught the attention of Fighting Irish fans everywhere after an impressive 62-41 win over Notre Dame's rival USC, which led to the prompt firing of Trojans head coach Lane Kiffin. This weekend will take on an even higher level of significance off the football field, though, during the fifth annual installation of Notre Dame's home away from home Shamrock Series.
In years past, Notre Dame has gone above and beyond to showcase every aspect of the university that makes Fighting Irish fans so proud to wear Blue and Gold on their sleeves. This year will be no different, and may even surpass past Shamrock Series weekends in San Antonio, New York City, Washington D.C. and Chicago.
President of the Notre Dame Alumni Association Board of Directors Erin O'Connor French '81 happens to be a very proud Texan, and he has issued an exciting statement to all Fighting Irish fans who plan on traveling to DFW, letting them know that he can't wait to share plenty of authentic "North Texas hospitality with y'all." Along with the Notre Dame Clubs of Dallas and Fort Worth, the Alumni Association has one hell of a weekend planned out, including academic lectures, a community service project, celebration of a traditional game day Mass, an impressive array of speakers at the Friday football luncheon, several social gatherings and, last but not least, every Texan's favorite pastime: football.
Here are the highlights:
Thursday, October 3:
12:00-6:00 p.m. The ND Bookstore Satellite Store opens at the Worthington Renaissance Hotel (200 Main Street, Fort Worth, TX). The official Shamrock Series Hospitality Desk will also open in the main lobby of the Worthington Renaissance at this time. Fans can stop by to pick up a printed out weekend guide and ask any questions they may have about upcoming events or the area in general.
9:00 p.m.-Closing Time The Notre Dame Young Alumni of Dallas will host their much-anticipated Bar Night at British Beverage Co. in Uptown Dallas (2800 Routh Street, Dallas, TX). Drink specials, delicious Tex-Mex treats and a party all night long under the high and wide Texas sky awaits all local young alums, friends and fellow fans. This is definitely the place to be for all those arriving early enough to kick the weekend off in style. If you're feeling lucky, you can even plan to gear up in officially licensed Shamrock Series gear and signed copies of the brand new behind-the-scenes book "Life as the Notre Dame Leprechaun" raffled off throughout the night.
Friday, October 4:
8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. The ND Bookstore Satellite Store and Shamrock Series Hospitality Desk will remain open at the Worthington Renaissance.
10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. The weekend's first academic event sponsored by the University of Notre Dame College of Science will take place at the Worthington Renaissance. This lecture is free and open to the public.
11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The Official Notre Dame Football Luncheon at the Worthington Renaissance Ballroom will feature yours truly signing copies of my book "Life as the Notre Dame Leprechaun" at the entrance prior to an impressive program beginning promptly at noon. Notre Dame Club of Dallas president Brian Tierney '93 will welcome the crowd, followed by an invocation by university president Fr. John Jenkins C.S.C. After lunch is served, Director of Media Productions for Fighting Irish Digital Media Jack Nolan will emcee a series of speeches and interviews. Guests of honor include Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick '76, Heisman Trophy Winner Tim Brown '88, recipient of what Fighting Irish fans refer to as "the catch" that won Notre Dame the 1973 national championship over Alabama Robin Weber '76 and Head Coach of the 2013 Fighting Irish Brian Kelly. To conclude the event, the Fighting Irish Pep Band will perform the Fight Song and Alma Mater. Items raffled off include footballs signed by several former Fighting Irish star players and custom pairs of ND-branded cowboy boots. Yee haw!
2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. All are welcome to join the service project at Catholic Charities of Fort Worth (249 Thornhill Drive, Fort Worth, TX). In 1842, Notre Dame's founder Fr. Edward Sorin envisioned a university that would become "a powerful force for good" in this world. Students, alumni and fans will do their part to keep that vision alive by volunteering to completely refurbish the 24-hour, 40-bed assessment center at CCFW that provides a safe, nurturing and temporary home for at-risk children ages 17 and under. CCFW also offers medical, dental, psychological, educational, recreational and psychiatric services in a healing environment. For those of you truly dedicated to bringing the impact of this weekend well beyond the football field, here is your chance to lend an hour or two to the cause.
3:00-4:30 p.m. Notre Dame's College of Arts and Letters will host a free public academic event at the Worthington Renaissance. The roundtable discussion is titled,"Latinos and the Future of America."
4:45-5:45 p.m. The Band of the Fighting Irish will perform a full concert at General Worth Square (9th and Main Street, Fort Worth, TX).
6:00 p.m. The Leprechaun and cheerleaders will begin their Step-Off Parade to the Pep-Rally (4th and Main Street, Fort Worth, TX).
6:15-7:00 p.m. The official Notre Dame Football Pep-Rally will take place at the final destination of the Step-Off Parade back at General Worth Square (9th and Main Street, Fort Worth, TX).
8:00-11:00 p.m. The Young Alumni of Fort Worth will host their own bar night, complete with more mouth-watering Tex-Mex appetizers and drink specials, at the Flying Saucer (111 E. 3rd Street, Fort Worth, TX).
Saturday, Oct. 5 (Game Day):
8:00-11:00 a.m. The ND Bookstore Satellite Store and Shamrock Series Hospitality Desk will remain open at the Worthington Renaissance.
10:00 a.m. A public celebration of game day Mass will take place at St. Patrick's Cathedral (1206 Throckmorton Street). University president Fr. Jenkins C.S.C. will be the celebrant.
1:00 p.m. The AT&T Stadium parking lots will open, giving Fighting Irish fans from far and wide the opportunity to show North Texas what a transplanted Midwestern tailgate looks like.
2:30-5:30 p.m. The official Notre Dame Alumni Association tailgate will take place at Fishbone Grill directly across the street from AT&T Stadium (816 N. Collins Street). More information regarding this ticketed event can be found at gameday.nd.edu.
3:45-4:30 p.m. The Band of the Fighting Irish will perform at AT&T West Plaza. This event is open to all game ticket holders.
4:30 p.m. AT&T Stadium will open its gates. Fans will get a chance to enjoy the spectacle that locals refer to as "Jerry World" while wearing green and showing North Texas just how well Notre Dame fans travel for their team.
Enjoy! As always, feel free to tweet at me (@TheNDleprechaun) or leave comments below regarding can't-miss events that I may have missed!
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Where Is Wide Receiver Jordan Thompson?
The West Virginia Mountaineers are nearly halfway done with the 2013 season, but question marks still surround the team. From the quarterback situation, to special team woes, to a missing link in the receiving corps, the Mountaineers are still searching for answers.
Prior to that first game on August 31 against William and Mary, Jordan Thompson was expected to be the biggest receiving threat for Dana Holgorsen's offense. He was seen as the only true returning player from a year ago and had hype surrounding his speed and quickness once he's in space. After catching six balls for 123 yards and three touchdowns in the Spring Game earlier this year, that hype wasn't without reason.
Now, as the season breaks into October, Thompson is no where to be found. Just about all the action he receives is when he's fielding punts, but even when he does that he's making noise in all the wrong ways.
The Mountaineers rank in the bottom 20 nationally in both kick and punt returns. While the team averages four yards per return on punts, Thompson himself isn't even putting up a positive average. He has three punt returns this year for a total of -3 yards. It's clear Thompson is struggling with his role on special teams, but he's not putting his head down just yet.
"It has been a learning experience," Thompson said earlier this week. "I never really had a main role as a punt returner, but it is just a process. I am getting more comfortable being back there to catch punts. Now, it is about getting more reps so I can become more comfortable during returns."
Special teams is one thing, but it's no secret West Virginia's offense is struggling. As the team continues to search for a stable option at quarterback, the offense is No. 57 in the country in passing/receiving yards per game.
Jordan Thompson has just four catches for 35 yards this season. Comparatively, nine players on the team have more receptions and just one player, freshman Wendell Smallwood, has less.
"Squirt" has plenty of potential and has a place on this team. Just last week against Oklahoma State he showed fans he can catch a ball with a huge play on third down late in the fourth quarter. If Thompson doesn't bring down the ball, the Mountaineers may have never defeated No. 11 Oklahoma State.
"I think it is something that will continue to happen. As a receiver, Coach Holgorsen expects us to make big plays in crucial situations," he said. "On that play, I made a good catch, but as soon as I caught it, I knew I had to get lined up, because coach likes the tempo."
Ronald Carswell, Daikel Shorts, and even Charles Sims out of the backfield are the players receiving the most action in the passing game. From a year ago, the offense is still finding a new identity with the new personnel. The young receiving corps has plenty of open field in front of them for the years to come, but 2013 is running out.
Jordan Thompson continues to be a mystery. It seems clear that at this point, he doesn't factor much into Dana Holgorsen's game plan. Daikel Shorts is the same style receiver but is receiving much more attention out of the slot.
The hope for Thompson is Holgorsen will continue to line up four receivers out wide on a consistent basis. As long as Thompson is on the field, he has a chance. And as long as he's making plays as he did against Oklahoma State, his quarterbacks trust in him will continue to grow.
For now, Thompson remains a work in progress. His special teams work will be the most of his opportunity but with consistency at quarterback his offensive work could increase. One thing is for sure, with another top 25 match-up coming against Baylor, mistakes won't be affordable for Thompson and the West Virginia Mountaineers.
*All quotations included in this article are courtesty of WVUsports.com.
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Oregon Ducks vs Colorado Buffaloes Complete Game Preview
After losing two bowl game matchups against Colorado over a four-year span in the mid-to-late 1990's, the Ducks have dominated the series of late. Oregon has won three straight against Colorado in blowout fashion.
In the 2001 season the Ducks took offense to everyone talking up Colorado as the team that should have faced Miami in the Rose Bowl for a shot at the national title. The Ducks pounded the Buffaloes 38-16 in a game that wasn't as close as the score indicates.
Colorado joined the Pac-12 before the 2011 season and the Ducks ran the Buffaloes off of Folsom Field. Despite playing without LaMichael James and Darron Thomas, the Ducks didn't miss a beat and won 45-2.
The Ducks hosted Colorado at Autzen Stadium in 2012 and pulled the majority of their starters in the second quarter as they cruised to a 56-0 at the halftime lead. This breathtaking punt return from De'Anthony Thomas was among their nine first-half touchdowns. The final score was 70-14 but Oregon could have easily put triple digits on the board if they felt like it.
With two victories under their belt in their first three games, first-year head coach Mike MacIntyre has Colorado looking like a more competitive squad than they have been in recent years. The Buffaloes already have doubled their win total from last year's disastrous 1-11 campaign.
What Are USC Recruits and Potential Recruits Saying About Lane Kiffin Firing?
The effects of USC's decision to dismiss head coach Lane Kiffin are being felt far beyond the football field. The early-season firing reverberated in the recruiting spectrum, resulting in mixed reactions from prospects across the country.
From shock to satisfaction, the initial thoughts of top Trojan targets and commits are telling. Kiffin, who compiled a 28-15 record since taking over at USC in 2010, was in hot pursuit of several of the nation's premier prospects when his tenure came to an abrupt end hours after a Sept. 28 loss at Arizona State.
USC has since tabbed Ed Orgeron as interim head coach. He previously served as defensive line coach and program recruiting coordinator, so his familiarity is already in place with the team's prospects.
Still, the uncertainty surrounding USC and its plans for seeking an eventual full-time replacement for Kiffin is causing quite a stir among high school stars.
4-star offensive guard Toa Lobendahn
Toa Lobendahn, a USC commit, didn't foresee the firing.
"I was a little surprised," he said. "I definitely wasn't expecting it. It was shocking."
The 6'3", 290-pound prospect from La Habra, Calif. is considered the country's 10th-best guard in 247Sports composite rankings. Lobendahn became the second member of USC's 2014 recruiting class when he committed to the Trojans in June 2012.
However, his ties to that verbal pact appear to be at least strained in the aftermath of the coaching change. Lobendahn plans to keep a close eye on what the program does moving forward while exploring alternative college choices.
"It definitely makes you raise some questions," he explained. "The new coaches could pull any scholarships and make a lot of changes. I have to consider other options now depending on how things turn out. There could be a whole new coaching staff; you just really don't know right now."
Unsurprisingly, Lobendahn confirmed other college coaches have reached out to him since Kiffin's dismissal.
5-star offensive guard Damien Mama
Damien Mama, another prized California offensive lineman, has listed USC among his favorites throughout a nationwide recruiting process. The 6'4", 370-pound St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) star saw a coaching change coming, although the timing surprised him.
"At some point, I started thinking that (the firing) was going to happen," Mama said. "I just never expected for it to happen this fast and this early in the season."
Mama is listed as the nation's No. 1 offensive guard prospect in 247Sports composite rankings. He has scheduled official visits to Alabama, Wisconsin and Notre Dame.
Although he doesn't plan to make an official visit to USC, the Trojans remain firmly in the mix for his services.
"When l I see the coaching change and what USC does next, I'll have to evaluate the team," Mama said. "Until a coaching change happens, yes, it's still a school I'm considering. I've always liked USC. That's still how I feel."
3-star offensive tackle Jordan Austin
USC commit Jordan Austin, an offensive tackle from Claremont, Calif., remains steadfast in his pact with the Trojans, according to a discussion with Scout.com.
"I have been reassured that nothing has changed between USC and me from any other aspect than Kiffin being relieved," he told Scout. "I am loyal to the school that I am committed to."
5-star athlete Adoree' Jackson
Adoree' Jackson, a coveted playmaker from Los Angeles County, voiced his immediate response on Twitter.
Jackson, who hails from the same high school (Gardena Serra) that produced USC standouts Marquise Lee and Robert Woods, attended the team's home opener this season. The Trojans lost to Washington State, 10-7.
4-star wide receiver Cordell Broadus
Class of 2015 standout Cordell Broadus (Diamond Bar, Calif.) was poignant with his take on Kiffin. He voiced excitement about a new era to 247Sports.
I feel that he should have been fired a while ago and USC is going to raise the bar now because the new coaching staff next year and I'm anxious to see what they are going to look like.
Broadus, perhaps better known as the son of Snoop Dogg, is a 4-star wide receiver prospect who picked up an offer from the Trojans in April.
5-star running back Dalvin Cook
Dalvin Cook (Miami, Fla.) is committed to Florida but has kept USC in consideration. That will continue without Kiffin in the picture.
"I like USC period," Cook told 247Sports.
While the firing stunned some recruits, others anticipated the move.
5-star athlete John Smith
Uncommitted wide receiver and defensive back prospect John Smith (Long Beach, Calif.) wasn't surprised and is taking a wait-and-see approach with USC.
"I already knew it was coming," he told 247Sports. "So it doesn't change anything until they do something."
The race is on for USC to rebuild its once-proud program, and that starts with pursuing its next head coach. Recruits throughout the nation are sure to keep a close eye on the Trojans' next move as national signing day approaches.
B/R college football recruiting writer Tyler Donohue obtained firsthand quotes from conversations with prospects unless otherwise noted.
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Why Would Washington Huskies Head Coach Steve Sarkisian Come Back to USC?
Washington Huskies head coach Steve Sarkisian has a contender building in the Pac-12 Conference. But the challenge for reclaiming Rose Bowl glory and national prominence at Washington is a tall one, with divisional rivals Oregon and Stanford as gatekeepers.
Sarkisian made his name on Pete Carroll's USC Trojans staff, and the current vacancy there has to be tempting.
The Husky head coach waved off the immediate and obvious suggestions during his press conference Monday.
Per Adam Jude of the Seattle Times:
"I'm proud to be the head coach of the [No. 15]-ranked team in America right now, and all the hard work that we've put in to this program for the last five years to get to this point, to be in an awesome matchup on national television on Saturday night against a national-championship contender in Stanford. And that's where my focus is."
Still, there's logic in such a move for both parties. USC would get a proven winner in the conference and someone familiar with the intricacies of the program, and Sarkisian steps into a ready-made powerhouse in a division ripe for the taking.
Washington is ranked No. 15, its pinnacle in Sarkisian's five seasons as head coach. Yet in back-to-back weeks, the Huskies face a two-game stretch indicative of the current glass ceiling in the Pac-12 North.
Saturday is the aforementioned trip to Stanford, followed by a home tilt against Oregon. While Washington scored an impressive win against the Cardinal a season ago, it was the program's only victory against the Pac-12 North's two pace-setters during the Sarkisian era.
Oregon has proven particularly vexing, winning its four matchups with Washington since 2009 by a 27.3-point per game average.
Sarkisian has done an outstanding job in his time there, but the current sledding in the North is simply more difficult than in the South.
USC's crosstown rival, UCLA, is fast taking the inside track in the South. USC can make up that ground quickly with the right leadership, and the two Los Angeles programs reestablishing national powers would prove to be a boon for the entire conference's national profile.
Sarkisian could provide that necessary leadership.
He was among the nation's most celebrated assistant coaches during his tenure at USC. Guiding the Trojan offense as coordinator in 2007 and 2008, he oversaw teams that scored 32.6 points and 37.5 points per game.
Sarkisian has proven his chops as a head coach, too, managing Washington's resurgence with the CEO-decisiveness necessary of a successful college program's leader.
When the defense struggled, he replaced coordinator Nick Holt with Justin Wilcox. After the offense sputtered, Sarkisian introduced a hurry-up, no-huddle that has the Huskies scoring nearly 40 points per game.
He inherited a program fresh off an 0-12 finish and made immediate strides. Rebuilding a team from absolute rock bottom pales in comparison to what faces the next USC head coach.
USC is just a few short years removed from carrying the conference's banner, and not far from returning to that level.
No, the Trojans are not at the Rose Bowl level reached when Sarkisian was an assistant. But the cupboard is stocked with plenty of talent, and the USC brand is one that can sell itself on the recruiting trail.
Not that Sarkisian needs to rely simply on a brand name. His recruiting acumen is evident in Washington's recent signing classes.
Among the savvy personnel moves he orchestrated was the addition of defensive line coach and recruiting phenom Tosh Lupoi before the 2012 season.
Lupoi's addition helped Washington land the nation's No. 21 overall recruiting class that winter. Members of that class, including Shaq Thompson, are key contributors to the Huskies current success.
With a roster stocked with young talent and the program on the rise, no one could fault Sarkisian for remaining in Seattle to see his efforts through to completion.
Yet, at the very least, he makes sense for USC, and the Trojans make some sense for him.
Kyle Kensing is the Pac-12 Lead Writer. All quotes were obtained firsthand, unless otherwise noted. Follow Kyle on Twitter: @kensing45.
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South Carolina Pulls Interview with Slurring Steve Spurrier
The South Carolina athletic page has taken down Steve Spurrier's postgame interview from Saturday's win over UCF, and reruns of the segment—scheduled to air this week on Fox Sports South—will no longer be shown.
According to Josh Kendall of GoGamecocks.com, Spurrier claims the interview was pulled because he decided it was too negative:
Liz [McMillan, an employee of IMG College] and Coach Tanner [USC's Athletics Director], we decided we didn't have to show it after the first time.
I said, "I'm not very happy with all I said on the thing and so forth. Let's get it off the air." They said, "We don't have to show it anymore so I said let's don't show it because I have to be more positive."
Others, though, after watching the segment, thought that Spurrier was slurring his words and sounded drunk, which might also explain its removal.
Here are tweets from two viewers of the show, via Jon Cooper of Saturday Down South:
Though it's no longer airing on the Gamecocks' website or television, this is the Internet age: Once something gets posted, it exists indelibly.
A quick click to YouTube makes it easy to pull up the interview. Spurrier's segments come at 12:00 and 16:40 on the video below:
All of this might be much ado about nothing. It's not like anyone can prove Spurrier was drunk, and even if they could, it's not like that's illegal—just irresponsible.
Spurrier himself didn't even back off from allegations of drinking after the game. In fact, he almost tacitly confirmed having some adult beverages:
Since this story is so benign, all it really does is add to the mythos of Spurrier, a figure as beloved for his off-field antics as his on-field success.
Nobody—especially members of the USC athletic department—prefers him to stir the pot like this, but so long as there are no serious implications, it's more funny than it is serious.
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Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish Complete Game Preview
The Arizona State Sun Devils and Notre Dame Fighting Irish both need a win in their marquee matchup in Dallas this weekend.
Arizona State rolls into Texas having put up record-setting offensive numbers against USC. Although the Sun Devils hold a 3-1 record, their defense has struggled and their run defense, in particular, has put them behind the eight ball many times. A win over the Fighting Irish would allow ASU to catch the nation's eye and show they are for real.
Notre Dame stumbles into AT&T Stadium having already lost two games this year. Just a year ago, the Irish ran the table and went to the BCS National Championship Game only to lose to Alabama. The Fighting Irish have lost both of their meetings with Top 25 teams this year and need a win over ASU to right their ship and gain their confidence back.
Here's the information you need to know about the matchup:
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Place: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Television: NBC
Radio: Sun Devil-IMG Sports Network, Notre Dame ISP Sports Network Affiliates
Point Spread: The Sun Devils are favored in Vegas between 5.5-6 points.
All stats, unless otherwise indicated, come from ESPN.com
Picks, Predictions and Prognosis for Every Week 6 Big 12 Football Game
Week 6 starts this Thursday, as does the heart of Big 12 conference play. Finally, we'll start to get a better glimpse of where teams stand.
Things kick off on Thursday with a rare weekday appearance (that's not on Thanksgiving) for Texas. The Longhorns travel to Iowa State for what could be a tricky game. Texas' next game is against Oklahoma, but after a slow start, the 'Horns probably aren't looking past anyone.
Texas Tech and Kansas are both coming off bye weeks heading into Saturday's game, while Kansas State and Oklahoma State are both coming off losses and looking to get back on the right side of the win column.
And who comes out on top? Baylor's offense or West Virginia's defense?
Let's get to the picks.
(All rankings used reflect the latest Associated Press poll.)
Despite What You Hear, These Coaches Are NOT Taking the USC Job
It's looking more and more like this is going to be one of the more interesting offseasons in college football history.
The USC job came open early Sunday morning when the Trojans dismissed Lane Kiffin after three-and-a-half rather uneventful seasons in the City of Angels; and it's looking more and more like Mack Brown will not make it to the 2014 season at Texas.
With the Trojan job already open, you're going to hear every name on the planet mentioned for the job—several of which are incredibly unrealistic.
The most ridiculous name floated around with the USC job is Texas A&M head coach Kevin Sumlin—and for good reason. Sumlin took over a perennially underachieving program making a transition into the nation's toughest conference and made it a power in literally no time at all.
USC has the worst offense in the Pac-12 (380.4 YPG), and Sumlin has not only produced elite offenses, he's also shown the flexibility to adjust his system to his personnel—which would be a huge plus for a USC program that's still hampered by scholarship restrictions.
When asked about the USC job, Sumlin answered in the most responsible way possible.
"It means you're winning and doing things the right way," he said, per the Houston Chronicle.
Sumlin isn't going anywhere.
USC is attractive, no doubt. But he's got a great thing going at Texas A&M. He's leading a program that's differentiating itself from big brother Texas in the state in terms of conference affiliation and success. The Aggies will benefit as more and more young players associate the program with the SEC patch on their jerseys, and they are taking giant leaps forward as the Longhorns continue to spiral downward.
Don't get me wrong, USC is probably going to ask. Why wouldn't it? But Sumlin has a good thing going in College Station. If he goes anywhere, it will be to the pros.
Another hot name on USC's radar should be Boise State's Chris Petersen, whom B/R's Adam Kramer suggested should be the top name for Trojan athletic director Pat Haden. Petersen was listed at 5-1 to get the job, behind only Denver Broncos assistant Jack Del Rio, according to Bovada.lv (via Chris Dufresne of the Los Angeles Times).
A marriage between USC and Petersen would make sense. He's 87-10 at Boise State in his seven-plus years as the Broncos' head coach. But he has turned down several opportunities to stay in Boise State, including one at Stanford after the 2010 season, according to Tom Scott of KTVB-7 in Boise.
Petersen may want a new challenge, according to CBSSports.com's Bruce Feldman, which would certainly cause him to give more consideration to a new opportunity. But rebuilding a 3-2 Boise State program that he invested so much sweat equity in is a new challenge, and it's one that he'll embrace.
USC is an upgrade from Boise State, no doubt. He'd make more money, get better players and have a chance at a BCS National Championship.
Since when has that mattered to Petersen, though? USC will ask, but Petersen is Boise State for life.
What about Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian? The head man of the Huskies and former USC assistant is listed at 8-1 by Bovada.
Keep dreaming, USC.
Sark has things cooking at a pretty high level at Washington. Quarterback Keith Price is back to his 2011 form with nine touchdowns and only two picks, and running back Bishop Sankey is creeping into the Heisman discussion after rushing for more than 160 yards in three of Washington's first four games.
"This is an awesome place to be,'' he said on Monday, according to Larry Stone of the Seattle Times. "And I have never once and I will never comment on hypothetical scenarios. I know that's the world a lot of us in this room live in, and that's your job to do. I understand that. But I've never done that in the 4.5 years I've been here, and I won't do that."
Why would he go rebuild somewhere else when he's got this Washington program in the Top 25 and a true contender in tough Pac-12 North? He'll be asked, and there's no doubt he will give it serious consideration. But the time just isn't right, no matter how big the Brinks truck that USC backs up to his house is.
It seems like Alabama head coach Nick Saban is mentioned for every job, even if it's in jest. He's not going to USC, nor is his his defensive coordinator, Kirby Smart—who's listed at 8-1 odds by Bovada.
Smart would be a fantastic hire for USC. He's been leading that Alabama defense since 2008, and he produced a top-five defense nationally in each of those five seasons. There are roster restrictions in L.A., but there are still plenty of solid pieces, including safety Su'a Cravens.
But Smart's roots are in the South. He's a former Georgia player who has been an assistant with the Bulldogs, LSU, Florida State, Valdosta State and now Alabama
Sumlin, Petersen and Smart will all be mentioned in connection with the job, but these guys aren't going anywhere. Del Rio, Vanderbilt head coach James Franklin or Fresno State's Tim DeRuyter?
Stay tuned.
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No Service Academy Games During Government Shutdown Is College Football's Loss
The federal government shutdown is a very real, very serious situation that has impacted the lives of folks, directly and indirectly, all over the nation. Its impact is set to reach the collegiate football world as the service academies have been forced to suspend activities.
On a myriad of levels, this is something that would make the college football landscape take a legitimate loss. The losers would include the student-athletes, the institutions, the communities surrounding the events and, of course, the opponents set to square off with service academies.
While many call the shutdown political posturing, there is also some serious political football being played by the department of defense, as Greg Couch of Fox Sports and Mike James of The Birddog both point out.
The game squarely in the cross-hairs is Air Force at Navy. A big-time affair, set to air on CBS at 11:30 a.m. ET, for 30 minutes of nothing but service academy football. A game that would showcase both programs and give the student-athletes a chance to compete for the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy. The athletes just want to play ball, the coaches just want to coach, and fans just want to see the teams play.
In the grand scheme of things, there is so much more to lose if the game is not played, based merely on posturing and a public relations play from the Department of Defense. The folks in Annapolis are expecting a record crowd for the contest, and as Couch points out in his story that includes a quote from Navy AD Chet Gladchuk, the supporting cast around the game will also be hurt:
Naval Academy athletic director Chet Gladchuk told the Annapolis Capital that if the game — built up as an event honoring the 1963 Cotton Bowl team — isn't played, it will cost the Academy $4 million.
"That this thing has tentacles that reach to Annapolis is truly disappointing," Gladchuk told the paper. "It would be absolutely devastating if this game cannot be played. It would be a tremendous setback for an awful lot of people, and we can't even calculate the total cost.''
A football game has its own economy. And it's a microcosm, really, of what can happen to the nation's economy during the shutdown.
It is a big deal, especially due to the fact that not playing the game is a push rooted not in money but in a PR play. The Department of Defense does not want to "look bad" even as the funds for the game do not come from the government itself on Navy's side. Where Air Force is concerned, The Gazette points out that conference money and even private funding could be substituted if that would give the Falcons the green light.
Yet here we sit a few days away from the big game, and there's no word as to whether or not the teams will be allowed to play. Scott Strasemeier at Navy points out that the schools and the game itself will be held hostage until Thursday, midday.
And, on the back end of things, looking more long-term, other collegiate teams could end up impacted should the service academies be grounded this week and beyond. If Army does not play Boston College, the Eagles miss on a game. The Duke Blue Devils are already eyeballing the game scheduled against Navy for October 12 with caution.
As a Mountain West member, a prolonged suspension of activities not only would stop the Falcons from competing against Navy, one of its biggest rivals, but it would impact conference play as well. On the field, that gets into trying to reschedule games, if at all possible, plus figuring out contingency plans for games such as next Thursday's San Diego State at Air Force contest.
From an inventory standpoint, it also means not delivering on the television contract that supports the league itself.
There will be a lot of folks made to lose out if these teams are parked. However, as Mike James points out at The Birddog, Navy has played through shutdowns before, so that is a positive sign from a historical standpoint. Each shutdown is unique, and given the hyper-politicized nature of the current situation, it will be interesting to see how the Department of Defense plays its cards.
With all intercollegiate athletics suspended, the issue goes beyond just the highly visible football. If they choose to force the service academies to the sidelines, plenty of people will be forced into an unfavorable spot, and as Couch points out, that's a microcosm of what the shutdown can do nationally.
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Meet Baylor's Bryce Petty, the Most Underrated Quarterback in College Football
Baylor has played just three games this season. And though none have come against a "quality opponent," it's still hard to overlook how dominant the Bears' offense has been in 2013.
The unit has scored 69, 70 and 70 points in those contests despite taking its foot off the gas in each second half to rest starters. It's scored just 10 points combined in the fourth quarter this year after averaging 22 points per quarter in the other three.
Leading that offense has been junior quarterback Bryce Petty, the latest in a recent line of high-volume passers in Waco. He currently leads the nation in passing efficiency and has looked every bit the part of a sleeper Heisman candidate.
Let's take a second to meet him.
As a Prospect
Like many who have gone on to thrive under Art Briles at Baylor, Petty, a member of the Class of 2010, was not at all a blue-chip prospect.
He was the No. 739 player on 247Sports' composite, ranking 28th among pro-style quarterbacks and 116th among players from Texas.
Here's a brief sampling of pro-style QBs that ranked ahead of him:
Still, coming out of Midlothian High School, a couple of power programs saw potential in the 6'3'', 230-pound gunslinger.
In addition to Baylor, he received scholarship offers from Nebraska, New Mexico and Virginia Tech, while also receiving interest from Arkansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, SMU and South Carolina.
Compared to Baylor Antecedents
Baylor has become something of a "Quarterback U" in the past few years under Briles, starting, obviously, with Heisman winner Robert Griffin III and followed by Nick Florence, who led the nation in passing yards last season.
Starting with Griffin's Heisman campaign in 2011, here is how those quarterbacks have fared in their first three games of the season:
Petty doesn't have the gaudy rushing numbers of either, nor does he have the huge TD totals that Florence posted last year.
But what he does have is the highest QB rating of the three, averaging an efficiency of 246.9 through Baylor's first three games. Like Griffin, he has yet to throw an interception, and he's making the most of each pass.
Cynics might look at these tables and say it devalues Petty's skill. If the two men before him also put up giant numbers, perhaps it's the system—not the quarterback—that deserves to be praised.
But looking at the glass half-full, Griffin and Florence were, physically, two of the best college quarterbacks of the last five years. If it was all the system, would RGIII have really gone on to win NFL Rookie of the Year last season?
That Petty compares (in some ways favorably) with his antecedents is not a bad thing for his stock. It means he might be just as talented.
Throwing Style
Where Petty thrives, and where it's most important for a QB to thrive in Briles' offense, is with precise ball placement.
The Bears are loaded with quick, home-run-threat skill players like Lache Seastrunk, Tevin Reese and Antwan Goodley. In order to get them going in space, it's paramount for Petty to lead them properly and hit them in stride.
That term—"to hit in stride"—often connotes a lovely deep ball, one where the quarterback places it right in his receiver's hands on a streak. But in this particular offense, it's just as important on short and intermediate routes.
Check out this touchdown pass Petty threw to Goodley against Buffalo.
Petty reads zone on 3rd-and-5, knowing that Goodley, running a slant pattern, should be able to find a hole in it:
Far too often—especially in college—a quarterback will see a window that wide, decide he has a bigger margin for error, then throw a pass his receiver must adjust to.
He takes the pass-catcher out of stride or makes him leap for the ball, which usually (though not always) converts the first down but limits yards after catch.
Petty, though, knowing how lethal Goodley is with the ball in his hands, zips a laser that hits him in stride, allowing him to break free and use his speed for a 83-yard touchdown:
Petty throws a nice traditional deep ball too, but in this offense, slants and crossing routes are more valuable. They make for higher-percentage completions—that is, the risk is much lower—and the Reese-Goodley combo is capable of taking almost any reception for big yardage.
If he keeps delivering perfect strikes in the middle third, Petty will continue to be the perfect quarterback for this offense.
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Washington vs. Stanford Might Be Another Defensive Struggle
When the Washington Huskies knocked off the Stanford Cardinal in September 2012, the two teams combined for 30 points. That's 10 and 11 points fewer than the individual per-game averages Washington and Stanford are registering early into the 2013 season.
No. 15 Washington visits The Farm in the rematch Saturday, and much has changed for both the Huskies and No. 5 Stanford in the past year.
"What happened in the games [previously], there's not a lot of carryover [to this season]," Stanford head coach David Shaw said on Tuesday's Pac-12 coaches teleconference call.
Indeed, the Cardinal failed to score an offensive touchdown in last year's meeting, despite rushing for 446 yards en route to 62 points the year prior.
Stanford's diminished offensive output was partially because Andrew Luck was no longer manning the quarterback position, and partially because of a defensive resurgence at Washington that has carried over into 2013.
"We knew they were going to be seeing a more sound, physical, athletic defense," Shaw said.
And as good as the Huskies were last year on that side of the ball—they held teams to 357.4 yards per game—this year's unit is better.
Defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox ushered in an immediate cultural change that manifested in one of the biggest single-season turnarounds in recent memory.
"Obviously from two years ago we've made significant changes on the defensive side of the football," Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian said.
Washington's transformation from allowing over 50 points three times in 2011 to holding teams to 10.8 points per game this year is nothing short of astounding.
"I've seen this defense be very structurally sound. You can tell guys know their jobs," Shaw said. "You see them playing smart, sound football. They have good athletes, that allows those guys to play fast and play aggressive."
Sarkisian touted Wilcox's innovation during July's Pac-12 media day.
Among the changes he's made this season is moving 5-star 2011 signee and sophomore Shaq Thompson from safety to linebacker.
Thompson has flourished in his new role, accruing 26 tackles and using the speed that originally made him a defensive back to chase down running backs for minimal gains.
Thompson is one of several notable linebackers tasked with slowing down an impressive offense taking to Stanford Stadium this weekend. Teammates junior John Timu and senior Princeton Fuimaono have combined for 53 tackles.
Stanford's defense, which was among the nation's best a season ago, remains one of the most talented in college football. That starts with the linebacker corps of seniors Shayne Skov, Trent Murphy and A.J. Tarpley.
The Cardinal are giving up 19.5 points per game, but have faced a different offense each week this season: the pass-happy attack of San Jose State, Army's triple option, Arizona State's spread and the air-raid offense of Washington State.
Saturday, Stanford sees a Husky football team operating under a newly-implemented hurry-up, no-huddle, featuring equal parts pass and rush.
"Washington's had great success [running a hurry-up offense]," Shaw said. "It fits their quarterback, and it fits what they do."
Quarterback Keith Price is completing better than 72 percent of his pass attempts with nine touchdowns and only two interceptions. Stanford's sole touchdown against the Huskies last season came on a Murphy interception of Price.
Murphy had another interception-for-touchdown in Stanford's Week 5 romp over Washington State.
Cardinal defensive coordinator Derek Mason dials up aggressive blitzes, evidenced by the team's nine sacks and 26 tackles for loss through four games. With Murphy coming from the outside linebacker position and Ben Gardner off the edge at defensive end, Stanford boasts one of the most difficult-to-block front sevens in the conference.
The pressure generates interceptions for a greedy Stanford secondary, captained by 2012 Pac-12 interceptions leader and senior safety Ed Reynolds.
However, Washington will counter the pass rush with the nation's leading rusher, Bishop Sankey. If the Cardinal limit him, they dictate the game's tempo.
Likewise, the Huskies are faced with controlling the flow by slowing down a retooled Stanford offense. That starts with shutting off dual-threat sophomore quarterback Kevin Hogan.
"The biggest [change from last season] is the most obvious, which is Kevin Hogan, starting with his mobility. Kevin's mobility changes things," Shaw said. "Not everybody has to be wide-open. If guys are covered, he can take off and run."
Sarkisian recognizes the dynamic Hogan brings to the Stanford offense. Last year, the Cardinal started Josh Nunes against Washington, and the now-retired quarterback went 18-of-37 with an interception.
"It's a very mature group now from they were [last year]," Sarkisian said. "They pose a great deal of challenges for us."
Kyle Kensing is the Pac-12 Lead Writer. All quotes were obtained firsthand, unless otherwise noted. Follow Kyle on Twitter: @kensing45.
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Florida Gators vs. Arkansas Razorbacks Complete Game Preview
The last time Florida and Arkansas shared a scoreboard, Tim Tebow was on a football field. So was Aaron Hernandez.
Saturday, the Gators will host the Razorbacks for their first game against each other since 2009. It was UF's homecoming matchup, decided by Caleb Sturgis' field goal in the final seconds, which lifted Florida to a 23-20 victory.
Four years later, Florida won't be entering the Arkansas game as the best squad in the country.
Currently, No. 19 Florida (3-1, 2-0 SEC) is fresh off a Week 5 victory at Kentucky. While the Gators aren't the top team in the nation, they do lead the NCAA in rushing defense (53.5) and third-down defense (.178).
Arkansas (3-2, 0-1 SEC) is coming down to Florida after a loss at No. 10 Texas A&M last weekend. The Razorbacks are tied for the toughest schedule in the SEC, tackling Florida, LSU and Alabama all on the road this season.
When: Saturday, Oct. 5; 7 p.m. ET
Where: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Gainesville, Fla.
Radio: Sirius 94, XM 200
Spread: Florida (-10.5); Via TeamRankings.com
College Football Week 6 Predictions: Picking All Top 25 Games Against the Spread
If you needed a reminder that Las Vegas has mastered the whole point spread thing, you got it in Week 5. Georgia-LSU and Ohio State-Wisconsin—the two biggest games on a docket loaded with intrigue—each ended in… pushes. Shucks, that's not nearly as much fun.
You didn't require this reminder, of course, but you got one anyway. Vegas is good.
In the land of the AP Top 25, Week 6 doesn't pack the same punch from a matchup standpoint, but there are a handful of fabulous matchups. On top of that, the oddsmakers have provided a handful of downright fascinating lines that look almost too good to be true.
Remember: If it looks too easy, it probably is. Well, not always, but just keep this in mind before you scroll to the Georgia-Tennessee slide.
As for how the AP Top 25 will fare against the spread, let's pick 'em and hope the solid start stays solid.
Spreads courtesy of VegasInsider.com.
Record Against the Spread Entering Week 6: 51-36-2
Who Will Play Georgia in the SEC Title Game?
The SEC Championship game was nothing short of spectacular last season, as Alabama defeated Georgia 32-28. This year's game is still a ways away but is shaping up to be another must-see.
CFB analyst Adam Kramer and Barrett Sallee predict which team will square off against Georgia for the title in 2013.
Will we see a rematch of last year's game? Or can LSU get in the way of the Crimson Tide?
Watch Kramer and Sallee break down who will compete for this year's SEC title.
Highlights courtesy of xosdigital.com
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2014 NFL Draft: Mike Evans Dominates His Way onto October Big Board
The 2014 NFL draft landscape is still mostly barren, but it has developed slightly after the first month of games.
There is still a lot of college football to be played, but some players have already helped or hurt their draft stock since I released my first big board for the 2014 draft last month.
There will still be a lot of fluctuation as the season wears on, but this should give at least a point of reference for who to keep an eye on throughout the fall.
Remember, this is not a mock draft; it is just ranking the 40 best draft-eligible college football players.
*Denotes underclassmen
1. *Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
Clowney has not had a multi-sack game or popped anyone's helmet off with a hit yet, so suddenly his never-realistic Heisman hopes are gone, and the media is beginning to start spinning the overrated wheel to generate fake buzz. Let me just say this: Clowney is by far the best player in the country. This article by Bleacher Report's own Brian Leigh does a great job dissecting Clowney's impact. Previous: 1
2. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M
Matthews is an absolute stud, and I think he is the clear top prospect at left tackle. With more and more teams opting to take quarterbacks early, plus the presence of Clowney, he could end up slipping out of the first three picks, which would make him a Matt Kalil-like steal. Previous: 2
3. *Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville
Bridgewater's solid start has pushed him to an almost uncatchable distance ahead of the second-tier of quarterbacks (which is an extremely impressive tier). Bridgewater is a lot more than the Geno Smith hype-flash in a bottle; he really has all the makings of a franchise quarterback and will be one of the first two players picked in April. Previous: 5
4. *Marqise Lee, WR, Southern California
USC has really regressed into a mediocre Pac-12 team, and Cody Kessler and Max Wittek aren't great quarterbacks. As a result, Lee is really being forgotten by everyone, but he'll just start doing some otherworldly things with the ball in his hand and everyone will pay attention to him again. Previous: 4
5. Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
Lewan's biggest concern as a prospect has been his consistency, and he's definitely looked inconsistent at times this year. He wasn't great against lowly UConn and Akron, which are games that he needs to help Michigan dominate. Previous: 3
6. *Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama
The massive 'Bama left tackle has anchored another great unit for Nick Saban's squad. He's a freakish athlete who may not threaten Matthews but could very possibly overtake Lewan as the second tackle on the board. Previous: 6
7. *Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA
Barr is an incredible athlete who comes in at 6'4", 248 lbs. with plenty of room to put on a little more weight once he gets to the NFL. Scouts will love his explosiveness and versatility. Previous: 8
8. *Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
Watkins has looked dominant at times this season, using his breakaway speed and good hands to put together a few highlight-reel plays. I got the chance to see him in person this past Saturday as he tore apart Wake Forest's secondary multiple times. Previous: 10
9. Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame
Nix has been solid as ever and hasn't really helped or hurt his draft stock. So, this report will consist of just how awesome and hilarious of a person that Nix is—watch all of his "Chocolate News" videos, they're hysterical. Any NFL team would love to have him be part of their organization. Previous: 7
10. C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
Mosley is the best pure linebacker in the country; less of a pass-rusher than Barr but a much more complete player. I don't like listing him as an outside or inside linebacker, because I think he could play anywhere in a 3-4 and either weak or strong-side outside linebacker in a 4-3 if he worked at it. Previous: 12
11. Tajh Boyd, QB, Clemson
Watching Boyd live this past Saturday, I came away extremely impressed by his multitude of abilities. He can do a little bit of everything; he can run but also command the pocket, throw with velocity but also show touch. Previous: 13
12. *Brett Hundley
As good as Boyd has been, Hundley has really made a case for himself over the first month of the season. He is athletic and has a live arm, but he is just a sophomore and has a lot of room for growth. The ceiling is a top-five pick for Hundley should he decide to come out. Previous: 21
13. *Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE, Washington
This is really becoming more and more of a projection pick, as Seferian-Jenkins hasn't broken out in 2013 yet after a great 2012 season. But his talent is off the charts, so the hope is there. Previous: 9
14. *Stephon Tuitt, DE, Notre Dame
Tuitt had a pretty underwhelming start to the season, but then he had a big game in a defensive battle against Michigan State that showed his ability to combine strength and explosiveness off the line. He looks like a perfect NFL 4-3 defensive end. Previous: 11
15. Kyle Van Noy, OLB, Brigham Young
Van Noy is an outside linebacker prospect whose athleticism is evident every single time he steps on the field. Roll the tape against Texas from a couple weeks ago, and you'll see an elite prospect who causes havoc all over the field.
16. *Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
I knew a little about Evans before the season, but I had no idea just how talented the redshirt sophomore is. His dominating performance against Alabama put him on everyone's map, and his combination of 6'5" size and athleticism has him rightfully as the season's biggest riser so far. Previous: NR
17. Gabe Jackson, OG, Mississippi State
Jackson is a mauling run blocker who is just incredibly powerful from the inside. He's had a good start to the season and is cementing himself as the top guard in the class. His intangibles have also been praised by scouts and Mississippi State head coach Dan Mullen. Previous: 19
18. Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
After a great performance in the season opener against Ohio State, Mack and Buffalo's defense allowed Baylor to set a new school record for offense. But he's been solid since, and he remains a mid-round grade for me. Previous: 16
19. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama
Clinton-Dix has been a major part of Alabama's great start to the season, including a 25-0 shutout of Ole Miss last Saturday. He does everything well; he can cover, hit and make big plays in any situation. Previous: 23
20. *Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
Roby had played in four blowouts leading up to the Wisconsin game, and he looked pretty exposed against a solid Badger passing attack. Roby should rebound, but he definitely didn't help his draft stock last Saturday. Previous: 14
21. Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
Matthews has been sensational so far this season, racking up 40 receptions and five touchdowns in five games. He's 6'3" and has the speed to be a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. He's still flying too far under the radar. Previous: 24
22. *Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon
Mariota passes Stephen Morris on my board after a good start to his second season as a starter. His athleticism is unmatched, but he makes some sophomore-like mistakes, which is why his completion percentage is just 56.1 right now. His potential is unbelievably high. Previous: NR
23. *Ryan Shazier, OLB, Ohio State
Shazier's athleticism really stands out as an outside linebacker. He can do a bit of everything and has 26 solo tackles and a sack already this season. Previous: 20
24. *Antonio Richardson, OT, Tennessee
At 6'6", 330 lbs., Richardson is an absolute mammoth of a left tackle who has held up so far under pressure even during a rough start to the season for Tennessee. He's still raw, and if he shows improvement, there's a lot of opportunity for him to move up the board. Previous: NR
25. Dominique Easley, DT, Florida
After an unbelievable start to the season, Easley suffered a torn ACL last week which would end his final year in Florida. He announced that he would not pursue a redshirt and enter the NFL draft. His stock will hinge on the progress of his recovery. Previous: NR
26. Loucheiz Purifoy, CB, Florida—Previous: 15
27. *Cameron Irving, OT, Florida State—Previous: NR
28. David Yankey, OG, Stanford—Previous: 26
29. *Aaron Lynch, DE, South Florida—Previous: 17
30. Stephen Morris, QB, Miami—Previous: 30
31. *Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State—Previous: 29
32. *Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, CB, Oregon—Previous: 27
33. Will Sutton, DT, Arizona State—Previous: 25
34. *Colt Lyerla, TE, Oregon—Previous: 22
35. Cyril Richardson, OG, Baylor—Previous: NR
36. *Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina—Previous: NR
37. *Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M—Previous: NR
38. *Adrian Hubbard, OLB, Alabama—Previous: NR
39. *Scott Crichton, DE, Oregon State—Previous: NR
40. Brandon Coleman, WR, Rutgers—Previous: 28
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Breaking Down How Notre Dame Can Upset Arizona State and Save Its Season
When the Irish take the field against the Arizona State Sun Devils, the Notre Dame offense has to bring its A-game if Brian Kelly's team is going to pull out a victory and preserve hopes of a top-notch bowl game. With Stanford looming large at the end of the season, minimizing losses through this more favorable stretch is a must.
Last week, Your Best 11 looked at what Oklahoma was going to try and exploit in the Fighting Irish defense, and, unfortunately for Notre Dame, a lot of it worked. Underneath routes caught linebackers and safeties out of position, and the Sooners were able to move the ball regularly.
This week, against Arizona State, the Irish face a similar attack, looking to push the tempo and create mismatches in the pass game. Taylor Kelly, Marion Grice and the rest of the Sun Devils attack are going to be problems for the Notre Dame defense.
To counter that, Tommy Rees and the Irish offense have to put points up on the board, which boils down to four key elements: ball security, running the football, using the screen game and taking shots down the field.
Ball security has to be job one coming off the dismal performance against the Sooners; inability to keep possession of the ball sank Notre Dame's ship before the Irish were able to get into the flow of the game. Sooner linebackers Corey Nelson and Frank Shannon pulled in interceptions on back-to-back Irish pass plays, and safety Julian Wilson added another interception in the third quarter.
Those three picks ran the score from 0-0 to 7-0 with the Nelson return for a touchdown, then 14-0 with the drive set up by Shannon's return and finally 21-7 on the strength of the Sooners' drive after Wilson's grab.
Fingers automatically go to Tommy Rees, who posted his second-straight game with a sub-.500 completion percentage, but there is plenty of blame to go around for the Irish. On the first interception, a lack of communication ultimately thwarted any chance Rees had to complete the pass.
The offensive line fails to identify the edge threat presented by Eric Striker, only accounting for the four threats inside the box. Five to block four works great; the issue is Striker is the fifth rusher and goes untouched to Tommy Rees, who is going through his reads to the right side of the field. The result is a ball that floats into the arms of Nelson, who returns it for a touchdown.
Heading into the game against Arizona State, Notre Dame has to fix issues like this to stay in the ballgame. Rees and tight end Troy Niklas have to help the linemen by identifying the additional rusher, allowing them to adjust the protection and give Rees time to throw.
Rees also has to get on the same page with his receivers to ensure ball security. Throws into coverage and poor ball placement helped contribute to the other two interceptions for the Irish. Believing in DaVaris Daniels and TJ Jones to pull down tough catches makes sense; the issue is leaving those throws high, where they can be tipped away and turned into turnovers.
Protecting the football will go a long way from stopping an otherwise close game from becoming a blow out, but the Irish still have to score with the football. In Dallas, against Arizona State, that starts on the ground. The Sun Devils have given up big yardage and big plays in the run game in recent weeks, and Notre Dame has to capitalize in that facet to stop Rees from having to throw the ball far too often.
George Atkinson III must build off of his successes against the Sooners in the contest against Arizona State. The junior posted an explosive 80 yard run that reminded people of why he keeps getting heavy touches for the Irish, but some of his other carries are the real cause for excitement.
Atkinson was able to put together 13 carries for 68 yards, a 5.23 average, with only one negative rush against Oklahoma. That is a quality rushing effort, and while the home run is nice, Atkinson demonstrated a sense of consistency that has eluded the Fighting Irish run game by putting back-to-back positive gains.
On Saturday, it will be critical for Notre Dame to build off of this success against a team that is susceptible to the Power-O, the lead and the zone run. Defensive tackle Will Sutton is a monster in the interior, but the rest of that Arizona State front-seven can be moved, and that is what the Fighting Irish have to do.
Running the ball is paramount in this game, a contest that is going to require the Irish to possess the ball in an effort to stop Kelly and the Sun Devils from carving up the Notre Dame defense. Not only will three-and-outs, drives that last under two minutes, incompletions and negative rushing plays fail to get the job done, but they will set the table for Arizona State's attack to put up big numbers.
As a supplement to the push to run the ball, the Irish should also look to the screen game—not tunnel the bubble or the two man receiver screen game. Rather, getting Atkinson and Amir Carlisle involved in the screen game is a must. Give the pass rush a reason to slow down and let the big bodies on the line get out in front of the running backs to go lean on linebackers and defensive backs.
Carlisle and Atkinson are solid in the open field; giving them a chance to impact the game on screens puts another bullet in the Irish's offensive gun and can help make Rees' life a little easier—long handoffs with blocking in front, while still letting playmakers operate in space.
Even if Notre Dame protects the football, can establish the ground game and works in success through the screens, they will still have to stretch the field with the vertical passing game. Brian Kelly is going to work the slants and the intermediate passing game, but Rees has to stretch the ball down the field to both keep the Sun Devils honest and create big plays.
The shots have to come in different ways, most notably through building off the run game and taking advantage of man-to-man coverage. Play-action passing can get Daniels and Jones on top of safeties with eyes in the backfield and help open up the interior of the field.
Work the safeties down into the box by running the football against the front-seven. Then, move them with the play-action fake, forcing them into bad positions and spots where Rees can make easy completions.
Rees is also going to have to rise up and put the ball in spots where only his receivers can catch it, down the field—balls out in front of the receivers that let them continue to run away from the defenders and allow them to use their athleticism.
Here it is all about the one-on-one coverage. Get an Irish playmaker isolated on a Sun Devil corner and let him go make the play. Daniels is solid down the sideline, as this play against Purdue's Ricardo Allen showed earlier in the season.
Given what the Fighting Irish defense has shown in 2013, the Notre Dame offense is going to have to work to keep itself in this ball game. That starts with protecting the football, going after Arizona State on the ground, pushing the ball to running backs with screens and stretching the ball downfield.
Brian Kelly's team needs an A-game out of the offense in Texas. The Sun Devils smell blood in the water; they are hosting recruits to watch them beat last year's BCS runner-ups. Todd Graham and Arizona State want to embarrass the Irish, the same as they did with USC last weekend.
The onus is on the Irish to fight off the Sun Devils, and that is going to take a big time offensive effort.
Read more College Football news on BleacherReport.com


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Voting Home / Health & Fitness / BEST Sporting Goods
Where do you head to for the best in sporting equipment for your favorite games?
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The results are In! Congratulations to REI, named #1 Sporting Goods on the 2013 Best of Western Washington.
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Headlines · Briefs · Sports · Editorial/Letters · Court Report · Webcams · Weather · Archives · Submissions · Contact Us | December 8, 2013 |
A new way to view the High School ViewThe High School View, the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School student newspaper that appears in The Times every week during the school year, has launched a new web site - hsview.org. Users can jump to the View articles from a specific year though a toolbar on the left-hand side of the page. If you can't decide which of the more than 400 stories to read first, a random article generator will pick one for you. Among the new improvements, the View site now features an RSS (really simple syndication) feed to allow for interactive article searches. An advanced search function is also available, which allows users to search by texts, lead paragraphs, title, and author. Results are listed in order of relevance. |


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01-AUTOS FOR SALE We install used motors & transmissions, and guarantee our labor and parts! Towing is available. ASE Master Mechanics. Call 330-868-5209. (35tfcweb)
04-HOUSEHOLD Tappan gas stove w/self-cleaning oven. Almond color. Great condition, very clean. $200. Call 330-627-3131. (49cweb)
5B – Misc. For Sale Truck cap – 99 ½ x 69 ½, interior shelf, sliding screen windows, black, aluminum, $200. Call 740-543-3862. (49,50cweb)
Jay Turser Guitar w/gig bag: Les Paul body style w/transparent red wood grain finish & gold hardware. Sharp looking! Peavey Amp: Solid state, (2) 12-inch speakers, 2-channels. $150/each or $250 takes both. Possible trades considered. Call 330-458-9714. (49cweb)
Dodge Caravan rims & tires (4) w/decent tread, $200. Saxophone & music stand, $450. Call 330-205-4308. (42tfcweb)
06-ANIMALS 4 male pure Shih-Tzu puppies, $300/each. Vet checked. No papers. Ready for your homes Dec. 17! $100 deposit. Will hold until Christmas for additional fee. Call 330-323-4833 or 330-627-0656. (49cweb)
07-REAL ESTATE Real Estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, thus making it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or the intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discriminations. The Free Press will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Be informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. The Free Press Standard
COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES – Newell Realty & Auctions, 330-627-2350. (11tfcweb)
JEFFERSON CO: New! Prime hunting! 21 to 57 acres, wooded & rugged, electric. Starting at $48,900. T.R. 382 near the Ohio River and Steubenville. NOBLE CO: Deer Country! 28 wooded acres, $56,900 or 32 wooded acres, $57,900. Off S.R. 821 at Ava. Bruner Land Company, Inc. 740-435-3434 or 740-260-1378. www.brunerland.com (49tfcweb)
11-MISC. WANTED WANTED: Standing Timber & Walnut Trees – Call Carroll County Logging, 330-738-2050 or 440-897-0863. (46tfcweb)
12-HELP WANTED RPS is looking for Rig up/Shop hands. Open availability is a must! Hard workers and drive to learn required! CDL a plus, if do not have one, applicants must be willing to get one. Please send resumes to: email@example.com. (49pweb)
FFA Camp Muskingum is seeking a Part-time Housekeeper. Contact camp for more information, 330-627-2208. (49cweb)
Drivers: FT & PT Class A. Reliable, consistent 2500-3000 mi/wk for FT. All miles pd. No touch. Great benefits. ASSIGNED TRUCKS HOME EVERY WEEKEND. Reefer exp. a plus. 2 yrs. exp. min. 25 yoa. Call 800-321-3460 x227. (49-52pweb)
Professional CDL-A Drivers: Weekly pay, sign-on bonus, paid training, benefits. Oil & Gas Svcs. Co. 855-D4Maalt x6; Kim, 817-563-3540. (48-01pweb)
Drivers: Make $63,000/year or more! $2500 driver referral bonus & $1200 orientation completion bonus! CDL-A OTR exp. req. Call now! 1-866-325-1793. (49-01pweb)
13-REAL ESTATE WANTED We need land! Paying top prices for farms or acreage in Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Call Bruner Land Company at 1-740-685-3064. (01tfcweb)
Cash For Your Farm Or Acreage – Call toll-free, 866-893-5263. (18tfcweb)
16-FOR RENT Real Estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, thus making it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or the intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discriminations. The Free Press will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Be informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. The Free Press Standard
Atwood Lake – 3 BR, 1 ½ BA, bonus room. Utilities, trash, cable, internet, lawn service & snow removal included. No pets. No smoking indoors. $1300/month + deposit. Call 330-735-2524. (48,49pweb)
Furnished 2 BR trailer at Cobbler & S.R. 39. $600/month + $500 deposit & utilities. Call 330-738-3153. (49,50cweb)
2 BR mobile home, fully furnished. Includes satellite TV. $800/month + deposit. Call 330-705-3975. (49,50cweb)
Nice house in-town Carrollton w/stove, refrigerator, wa/dry, some furniture provided & off-street parking. $675/month + electric. Owner pays gas, water 7 trash pick-up. Monthly refund offered for early payment. Call or text 234-521-2526. (48-51cweb)
3 BR, 2 BA, includes lot, trash pick-up & sewer. No pets. $500 to $740/month. Free month rent w/new lease. Sandy Valley Estates, 330-866-3873. (44tfcweb)
RENTAL HOUSES – Newell Realty & Auctions, 330-705-6221. (03tfcweb)
Atwood Lake – 3 BR lakefront w/all utilities paid. No outside yard maintenance. Trash taken away. No pets. $1200/month + deposit. Call 330-316-6794. (19tfcweb)
Newly remodeled 5 BR house, partially furnished, in Union Twp. Located 5 miles South of Carrollton on Pillar Rd. No pets, no smoking. Sec. dep. Call 330-627-5712 or 330-260-6642. (47tfcweb)
Beautiful 1 BR apartment at 140 N. Lisbon St., Apt. A, first floor. Remodeled & super nice, clean & quiet. $650/month including heat, water, sewer & trash. Drive by then call Joseph Properties, 330-627-2727. (48tfcweb)
Furnished & unfurnished homes & rooms for lease – Call Joseph Properties, 330-627-2727. (48tfcweb)
COMMERCIAL GARAGE SPACE!!! Commercial Garage Space at 343 2nd St. SE, Carrollton. Former Center Twp. Garage. 14' garage door plus office space & restrooms. $1500/month w/lease. Drive by then call Joseph Properties, 330-627-2727. (48tfcweb)
Executive Quality Brick Home on 3 acres! Private setting, only 8-minute drive f/Carrollton! 4+ bedrooms, 2+ car garage w/electric opener. Air-conditioned, with fireplace. Large deck, wonderful yard, and wooded back lot. Beautiful glass block shower that could accommodate the entire family at one time! Available furnished or unfurnished. Call Joseph Properties, 330-627-2727. (48tfcweb)
©2013 The Free Press Standard Carrollton Free Pres Standard P. O. Box 37, Carrollton, OH 44615


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- November 27, 2012
- 10:27 p.m.
- Suggest removal
- Reply to this post
big_peach_e writes:
New motto for the Tea Party loonies "Doing More To Elect Democrats Nationwide since 2008" Go Tea Party go, nominate witches and ultra right candidates, please do your part to keep the Republicans the "party of stupid."
Oh and please turn in your Medicare cards at the next meeting, you don't want to be accused of being a socialist do you?
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Over 450,000 Kiwi's have visited Queensland over the past 12 months highlighting New Zealand as Queensland's number one international source market.
To help keep the industry up to date with the wide range of exciting Queensland holiday options for the Kiwi traveller, Tourism Queensland has a number of key trade activities for the New Zealand travel industry to get involved.
Travel Agent Famils are a great way for travel agents to experience key Queensland holiday destinations first hand. To register your interest email Justine Smith by CLICKING HERE
Thank you for your great support for Queensland, where Australia shines!
For a copy of our online Queensland Travel Trade Planner as well as specific information on Queensland regions and experiences, download these brochures. More >
There are so many different islands to experience ranging from remote and luxurious through to eco-friendly and idyllic. More >
Experience the very best of Australia in Southern Queensland through the Great Sunshine Way. More >


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Feministas Unidas
291. Alternative Feminist Voices: Transatlantic Visions
Cash Bar: Women's Caucus for the Modern Languages, Women in French, Women in German, and Feministas Unidas
409. Visual and Graphic Representations by Hispanic/Luso/Latina Female Writers and Artists
298. Illness and the Female Body as Text
429. The Sick Female Body as Text: Claiming the Forbidden Self
168. Methodological Practices in Teaching Women and Family
701. (Re)Constituting Women and Family
39. Viewing Women, Women Viewing: From Theory to Practice
413. Theories of Viewing Women: Women Viewing, Representation, and Subjectivities
6. Feministas Aren't Funny? Humor as a Pedagogical Tool
333. Cash Bar Arranged by the Women's Caucus for the Modern Languages, Women in German, and Feministas Unidas
557. Feminist Trajectories: Desde las Monjas to the New Left
253. Feminisms and Religion: Challenges in the Classroom
726. Feminisms and Religion: Theoretical Musings
156. Blurring Borders: Theorizing Gloria Anzaldúa
752. Real Women Have . . . : Teaching the Visual
546. Teaching for Peace: Feminisms, Resistance, and Citizenship
738. Business Meeting of Feministas Unidas
Return to list of Allied Organizations
Program Archive


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Sold $600 worth of old comics today and since I have bought very few comics all year I celebrated by buying Empowered Deluxe edition vol. 1 and pre-ordering vol. 2.
Sold $600 worth of old comics today and since I have bought very few comics all year I celebrated by buying Empowered Deluxe edition vol. 1 and pre-ordering vol. 2.
The Copper Age is my Golden Age
My 2013 1000 comic progress
Pretty much everything I didn't want anymore. All my super hero comics, all my doubles, and a few indy series I don't follow anymore. Ten longboxes full. It was mostly worthless or at least low value stuff, but I didn't cherry pick it and still had a few good comics to entice him to take the whole thing. I think we both walked away happy.
The Copper Age is my Golden Age
My 2013 1000 comic progress
and this just shipped
The 9th Blog
A Blog made with friends about comics, the 9th art
Read Busieks Conan recently and was pretty blown away by how good it was, I would love Dark Horse to do Library Editions of it as the art is pretty spectacular in trade. How likely is that?
Also for anyone who is interested, looks like the first hardcover version of The Darkness Compendium is about to go OOP, amazon is out of it, cgn is out of it, tow looks like it's out as well.
Been reading Metabarons. Oh man, this art is gorgeous! And I really like how it's an original story set in the same universe as the Incal, unlike Before the Incal where it really just answered a bunch of questions.
I've just started to read Conan in singles when Brian Wood started his run. I totally love it! Which although I always enjoy Wood's writing, was a bit of a surprise. The only thing I knew about the character was the Schwarzenegger film, which is not my sort of film to say the least. D'you know if any of the older stories are anywhere like Wood's run? And which books do you recommend to pick up?
I just finished the 2nd and 3rd volume this afternoon and totally loved it. The page count of these volumes is the same as the first volume (the story). I agree with your point that all 3 issues should have been included in one book for the US release, especially since all 3 volumes have already been released in Europe. This is the way books are released in Europe though, so I guess they wanted to do the same in the US. If I were you I'd be more upset about the size of the book, which is much smaller than European releases. You do get a whole lot of extra's though and the price can't be beat. I paid 45 euro for the 3 books, and that's just story pages, not a single extra included. Do consider the book has to be translated from French to English, when assessing the price of the book.
I wonder how fast you read... it took you just 15 minutes? Really?? It's not a speed reading contest!! I took much longer and even read it in my own language. I really took the art in, since it's fantastic and quite unique. I think it took me at least 40-45 minutes per volume. Anyway... I hope you'll pick up the other volumes next year and enjoy it when reading the whole story in one sitting.
Really? I had a look and all I could find were regular HCs. This is the Busiek/Nord stuff thats quite recent.
Well I loved Buiseks stuff, not really read anything about Conan but have seen the latest film and Arnolds version. Its definitely better than films but has similar themes to them. Pick up a trade or get one from your library and try it.
DH put out some regular sized hardcovers but the number was very limited and they have stated that there are no plans to reprint or put them out again in HC. However, that doesn't mean it won't ever happen. I would love some nice hardcovers. I was really surprised how much I liked it and would much rather but a larger volume then a bunch of tpbs.
It probably took a little more than 15 minutes but not much. There just isn't much dialog there. I want to continue on to vol 2 to and 3 because the book is beautiful and I like where its going but its hard to pay $45 for about 225 pages and an hour of reading.
It would have been much better to release one 250 pg volume for $25-30 bucks. I'll probably stick with it though.


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/ Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative (CCPI)
The Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative (CCPI) is a voluntary conservation initiative that establishes specific parameters for working with eligible partners to provide financial and technical assistance to owners and operators of agricultural and nonindustrial private forest lands. The assistance provided enables participants to install and maintain conservation practices, including the development and adoption of innovative conservation practices and management approaches. Areas of CCPI assistance are selected competitively through applications from eligible partners. Eligible partners include State, local, and Tribal governments, producer associations and cooperatives, institutions of higher education, and nongovernmental organizations.
CCPI is implemented through multi-year agreements, not to exceed 5 years, with partners. The purpose of the CCPI is to:
National CCPI Program Information - This national website provides additional information on the CCPI and multi-state funded projects.
Oklahoma currently has no active CCPI projects
NRCS will announce CCPI availability through announcements and a new Request for Proposals (RFP) sometime after the beginning of the new 2014 fiscal year. Watch the National CCPI website for more information. Partner proposals must be postmarked and submitted to the appropriate NRCS State Conservationist or to the Chief within 45 days of the date of the Federal Register Notice.


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Robert Babicz – Essential Mix 3-26-2011
Robert Babicz has been producing, or better yet crafting fine techno sounds for some time now. Trying to create what has been dubbed "emotional dance music", Babicz mixes are to be played through to get the full effect. With all the anthems and chart toppers nowadays, the art off entrancing listeners into a groove is being somewhat lost. This isn't the case with Robert Babicz as his mixing spiral through a dreamlike state of upbeat melodic techno goodness.
Listen Now
Get the download link by paying with a tweet
Robert Babicz — Intro
James Zabiela — Blame (Robert Babicz Remix) Hope Recordings
Robert Babicz — Insider Unsigned
Robert Babicz — Take It Deep Bangbang
Robert Babicz — Nektar Babiczstyle
Hardfloor — Acperience (Robert Babicz Remix)
Robert Babicz — From Manchester To Newcastle Babiczstyle
Robert Babicz — Vibrating Heart Toy Babiczstyle
Robert Babicz — Tblisi Reprise Systematic
Davi — Black Rock City (Robert Babicz Remix) Subtract
Robert Babicz — Slide Away Intec
Robert Babicz — Darkroom Babiczstyle
Robert Babicz — Merak Systematic
Robert Babicz — Remote Kiss (Explosive Bolts Remix) Babiczstyle
Stephan Helm — Taste (Robert Babicz Remix)
Eduardo Moises & Parlange — Lamb Sky (Robert Babicz Remix)
Robert Babicz — Beautiful Night Subtract
Robert Babicz — Dark Flower (Joris Voorn Remix /Babiczstyle Live Re-Edit)(Audiomatique Recordings)
Denis A — Cuba (Robert Babicz Sunshine Remix)
Robert Babicz — Two Colours Bedrock
Robert Babicz — Hamburg Babiczstyle
Robert Babicz — Warm Rain Babiczstyle
Robert Babicz — Pink Trees Reprise Bedrock
Tags: 2011, Deep House, Essential Mix, Robert Babicz, Tech House, Techno


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WHY you choose to work in a call center? why we should hire you without experience in a call center? why do you want to work in a graveyard ship? How much salary do you want to received? what is a call center for you?
1. every company that is entering into market for bussiness needs to outsource their products so i belive that cc has an everlasting boom. 2. even though i dont have experience, my skills and my hard work will help in organization growth. 4.cc is a place where we can help in solving someones problems.