So I'm in a football talking mood, apparently. Since I am a Clemson grad, I have to talk about our prospects for next season. First of all, 2009 ACC Player of the Year and consensus All-American C.J. Spiller will be missed in the coming season. He was one of the greatest players to ever put on the orange and white, but his biggest contribution might have been on special teams. He is not, and probably never will be, a pile mover that grinds out 4-5 yards every carry. He was, however, the most lethal player in the country. He could always slip one tackle and then take it to the endzone on any given play. As a return man, the field position he was able to give the Tigers in 2009 was a largely unmentioned benefit to go along with his 5 return touchdowns (4 on punts). It is impossible for him to be replaced by any one player, but their is enough talent for Clemson to make up his yards with other contributors.
The offensive backfield will be adequately manned with junior Jamie Harper and sophomore Andre Ellington. Both gained valuable experience in 2009 due to the nagging toe injury that limited Spiller's carries in some games. Ellington had 491 yards and 4 touchdowns (7.2 ypc) and Harper added 418 yards and 4 scores as well. Hopefully the two can become a "Thunder and Lightning 2.0" similar to the original James Davis-C.J. Spiller "Thunder and Lightning" duo. Ellington, at only 180 lbs., showed impressive burst through the line this season and runs incredibly tough for a smaller back. Harper, meanwhile at 235 lbs., looked tentative during many of his carries but exploded in the bowl game against Kentucky. He ran with power and surprising speed for a big back. Clemson needs those two to step up their games in a big way in 2010.
Kyle Parker had an outstanding freshman season after beating out local hero Willy Korn. Parker passed for 2,526 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He also rushed for 135 yards and one touchdown. Despite being undersized, Parker has a cannon for an arm, which is why he may be playing major league baseball and not football next fall. He is a star for the Clemson baseball team and, barring a good draft position, may opt to go that route after this spring's baseball season. Redshirt freshman Tajh Boyd will get the call if Parker goes to baseball, and many have rumored he might beat out Parker if the two go head-to-head in the fall anyway. Boyd was a landmark recruit that chose the Tigers over Oregon and Ohio State. He has big-time talent and is adept as a runner and passer. However, neither will have much success unless the next group steps up in a big way.
Jacoby Ford (2009 Second Team All-ACC) will be the most missed member of our offense in 2010, in my opinion. He had a great senior season as the only real receiving threat for the Tigers outside of All-ACC tight end Michael Palmer. Ford hauled in 56 receptions for 779 yards and 6 touchdowns. Unfortunately, the second-leading wide receiver for Clemson in 2009 was Xavier Dye with a whopping 14 receptions. Dye did catch 3 touchdowns, but production from that position must increase drastically for the Tigers to make a return trip to the ACC Championship Game. He will be joined by junior Marquan Jones (9 receptions, 137 yards, 1 TD) and senior Terrance Ashe (11-124) as the only receivers with any real game experience. Redshirt freshman Bryce McNeal will be looked upon to contribute immediately after playing on the scout team in 2009. He was a big-time recruit and supposedly has a good rapport with Boyd should the two be an on-field tandem. True freshman Martavis Bryant, also a high profile recruit, may get playing time early in his career. They will receive help from the tight end position which was utilized frequently this past season. Sophomore Dwayne Allen is a promising prospect at tight end who caught 3 touchdowns this past season.
The offensive line returns All-ACC senior left tackle Chris Hairston, junior guard Antoine McClain, sophomore center Dalton Freeman, and junior right tackle Landon Walker. All-ACC guard Thomas Austin departs due to graduation, and junior guard Mason Cloy will have to rehabilitate the broken leg he suffered against Georgia Tech in the conference championship game. The potential starting five of Hairston, McClain, Freeman, Cloy and Walker is a solid group that has a wealth of experience. Depth here is a concern, however. Cloy was the second team center and guard, behind Austin, last season but received extensive playing time. David Smith should provide quality depth at either tackle or guard, but outside of that there are more questions than answers. This could be a strong unit for the Tigers in 2010 provided they are not battling injuries.
Similarly, the defensive line should be strong unit once again this season. Defensive tackles Jarvis Jenkins and Brandon Thompson return, as does Jamie Cumbie and Miguel Chavis, giving the team a solid four-man rotation at defensive tackle. Ricky Sapp, who had an all-conference senior season, is lost but will be replaced by junior Andre Branch and/or sophomore Malliciah Goodman. Junior defensive end Da'Quan Bowers needs to have a big season this year. He had a steady sophomore season with 58 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. However, expectations are exceedingly high for Bowers, who was the top-rated prospect in the nation as a high school senior, and he needs to up those numbers in '10.
Linebacker is the area of most concern, and anyone watching the Georgia Tech games could see why. Middle linebacker Brandon Maye, the team's third leading tackler in '09, is a passionate player who had 103 tackles last season, but must improve in his junior year for the defense to take the next step. He is the lone returning starter as both Kavell Connor and Kevin Alexander were seniors in '09. Corico Hawkins, a sophomore, received a fair amount of playing time as a freshman and was a highly regarded recruit. He may move to the outside or challenge Maye for playing time. Senior Scotty Cooper has plenty of experience as a starter and non-starter, and should enter the spring as a starter at one of the outside linebacker spots. Tarik Rollins, Tig Willard, Spencer Shuey, Quandon Christian, and Daniel Andrews will compete for the outside linebacker spots. Whoever eventually rises to man these spots needs to come a long way in a short period of time. Linebacker play was the weak point of the defense last season and could be an even weaker spot in 2010. That must significantly improve before this team can expect to be playing in a BCS game.
The Tiger secondary, on the other hand, should be one of the best in the ACC, and possibly the nation. All-American safety DeAndre McDaniel returns after a huge junior season. McDaniel picked off 8 passes to go along with 102 tackles. The other safety spot will probably be Freshman All-American Rashard Hall, who himself had 6 interceptions in '09. Seniors Byron Maxwell and Marcus Gilchrist will likely be the starting cornerbacks with junior Coty Sensabaugh and sophomore Xavier Brewer waiting in the wings.
Richard Jackson, a senior, will return to handle field goals and extra points while junior Dawson Zimmerman will be the punter. Spencer Benton is the kickoff specialist.
As mentioned in a previous posting, the schedule will be tougher next season. Road trips to Chapel Hill, Auburn, Tallahassee, Chestnut Hill and Winston-Salem all present a challenge. The home schedule is also tough with Georgia Tech, Miami and South Carolina coming to Clemson.
I think the Tigers beat Maryland, NC State, Presbyterian, and North Texas easily at home. South Carolina, Georgia Tech and Miami present much more trouble. As it stands right now, I don't see the Tigers beating Georgia Tech next season. If Jonathan Dwyer and Derrick Morgan declare for the NFL Draft, as expected, then that changes things. However, as of now, I see the Yellow Jackets continuing their winning streak against Clemson. Miami is a mercurial team that is tough to predict. They have a ton of talent and will not forget their overtime loss to the Tigers in '09. I hate to say it, but I think the Hurricanes escape Death Valley as well. However, I see the Tigers avenging the whipping they received at the hands of the Gamecocks last season. South Carolina could be a very dangerous team but the two teams were clearly not on the same wavelength when they met last November. I would expect the Tiger defense to slow down a potentially explosive passing game and protect their house.
I do see the Tigers winning at Wake Forest. Riley Skinner graduates and leaves a large hole at quarterback for the Demon Deacons and it appears that head coach Jim Grobe has some rebuilding to do. Boston College is another road game the Tigers should claim, although the Eagles have been a pesky opponent over the years and that game is always a tough contest. I do not see a win at Auburn, however. Jordan-Hare is a difficult environment to win in and Auburn displayed a very potent offense this past season. However, they must replace their leading rusher and quarterback. I also do not see the Tigers winning in Chapel Hill. The Tarheels had a quiet season in '09 but finished 9-4. They return almost everyone next season and should compete for the conference title. I have no idea what to expect out of Florida State with Jimbo Fisher at the helm. I do think there will be alot of excitement and a newfound energy for the Seminoles, but I think it will take time before they are back among the conference elite.
Overall I think Clemson will have a status quo season for the Tigers. Poor receiver play will most likely bring down Parker's numbers should he return to play quarterback. The offensive line will be a solid but not spectacular unit. Harper and Ellington will be effective, however, and the running game should be formidable. I would expect Ellington to rush for 800-900 yards and Harper to add another 600-800. I do not forsee either back making the big plays Spiller provided last season, however. Nor do I expect our special teams to be as, well special, without Spiller and Ford returning kicks and forcing teams to alter their gameplan.
The defense should be the reason the Tigers are in every game. Kevin Steele's unit has room for improvement but was very solid in his first season as defensive coordinator. The success of this unit comes down to the linebackers, but the secondary and defensive line will be the envy of everyone in the ACC. I think Dabo Swinney's second season will result in a 7-5 season with road losses to Auburn, Florida State, and North Carolina. I also predict home losses to Georgia Tech and Miami. There are several caveats to this, however.
1.) Receiver play. If Bryce McNeal becomes a big-time player early in his career, or Xavier Dye or Marquan Jones play with the potential they flashed as sought after recruits then this group could be a much needed surprise.
2.) Linebackers. Brandon Maye is a steady performer, and if he can be joined by a playmaker (or become one himself) in the tradition of Leroy Hill, Anthony Simmons, Keith Adams, John Leake, Chad Carson, etc. then this will lead to more wins in 2010.
3.) The continued development of offensive coordinator Billy Napier. The offense was brutal early in the season in 2009, but began to develop as the season went on. The Maryland and South Carolina games were particularly painful. If he can improve in his second season our team will be much better.
4.) Georgia Tech's underclassmen defections. If Dwyer and Morgan go pro, then I will not be so sure the Jackets win in Clemson. These match-ups are always close and could go either way, but the Tigers have been on the short end alot lately. If Jonathan Dwyer is running up the gut on Sundays next fall their offense will take a step back. The same can be said of Derrick Morgan, who single-handidly disrupted Clemson in the entire first half of last season's game in Atlanta.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Early Look: 2010 College Football Season
I know, I know....the BCS Championship game was LAST NIGHT and I'm already putting together my top storylines for next season. Too early? Perhaps. Nevertheless, it is never too early to look ahead to next year. So, without further ado, here are some of my observations and even a few predictions for 2010:
- If Boise State wants to be mentioned among the elite programs, 2010 is their chance. The Broncos return every starter but one from 2009's undefeated team that shut down TCU in the Fiesta Bowl. Quarterback Kellen Moore deserves preseason Heisman consideration and the offense should be among the best in college football. The only thing standing in their way for a shot at the national championship are games against Oregon State and Virginia Tech, another team with national titel aspirations.
- Don't sleep on TCU, either. Gary Patterson's Horned Frogs lose several playmakers on defense, but they did last year too and just kept reloading. Quarterback Andy Dalton returns after a stellar 2009. Look for the Horned Frogs to capture the Mountain West crown again in 2010.
- Watch out for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Jim Tressel's team completely shutdown the vaunted offense of the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl and quarterback Terrelle Pryor flashed the promise that made him the nation's top-rated recruit in 2008. The entire offense and most of the defense returns next season, as well. The schedule features a visit from Miami(Fl.), Penn State and road trips to Wisconsin and Iowa. Much to the chagrin of many college football fans, the Buckeyes could be playing for the BCS Championship again next season.
- What to make of the Florida Gators? With head coach Urban Meyer's change of heart to take a leave of absence (after originally resigning),Tim Tebow's graduation, and defensive coordinator Charlie Strong leaving to become the head coach at Louisville, what will happen to this team? I see a step back, but not a collapse. Tebow will be replaced by another high school All-American, most likely John Brantley, who will be throwing passes to other former prep stars. I see this team still winning the SEC East, but not competing for the national title with road trips to Baton Rouge, Knoxville, and Tuscaloosa on the horizon.
- 2010 will end the SEC's string of national champions. Florida will still be arguably the most talented team in the country but must go through some growing pains in the transition. Alabama should be the class of the SEC once again, but after an intriguing non-conference game in Tuscaloosa against Penn State, the Tide must travel to Arkansas, Tennessee, South Carolin and LSU. Its difficult to imagine the 2010 Crimson Tide navigating all of that unscathed after all of their personnel losses from the previous year's outstanding defense.
Lost in all of the "SEC superiority" is the fact that it has basically become a two-team league. In both 2008 and 2009 it was Alabama and Florida and then everyone else below that. This was true in the bowls as well as LSU, Kentucky, Tennessee and South Carolina all lost their bowls, and the league overall was only 6-4 in the postseason.
- Speaking of the SEC, there are 3 sleeper teams to watch out for. Arkansas, South Carolina and Tennessee. While I think Florida will be down I still see them as the best team in the SEC East. The Gamecocks and Volunteers do threaten that, and the Gators must travel to Knoxville. Steve Spurrier's team returns virtually everyone, but will that be enough? Judging from the past all signs point to no, but it's not inconceivable to see the Gamecocks win 9 games in 2010. The same can be said of Lane Kiffin's Vols, but the week before they face the Gators they must take on the Oregon Ducks.
- The Pac-10 Championship goes through Oregon. With Joe McKnight surprisingly turning pro, Pete Carroll potentially leaving to coach in the NFL and Southern Cal's 9-4 record in 2009, all signs point to a downturn for the Trojans (even if it is only brief). The Oregon Ducks are the team to beat in the Pac-10 now with do-everything quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and speedy LaMichael James running the ball. Oregon State also plays into the mix with the twin brother duo of Jacquizz and James Rodgers keeping defensive coordinators up at night.
- The ACC Coastal Division will be one of the toughest in all of college football. While the ACC is unquestionably one of the weakest BCS conferences, the 2010 Coastal Division should be as hard fought as any in the land. Virginia Tech, Miami, North Carolina, and Georgia Tech will all lock horns for the right to play in the ACC Championship Game. Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech and possibly Miami should all be preseason top 15 teams as well, so this division will have BCS ramifications. Look for the Hokies to take that division as well as the ACC Conference Championship next season.
- The ACC will have a national championship contender. Whether it is Georgia Tech or Virginia Tech (or possibly Miami) someone from the ACC will emerge as a title contender. My money is on the Hokies who return one of the best backfields in the country with sophomores Ryan Williams and Darren Evans both the owners of 1,200+ yard rushing seasons. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor (2,311 yards, 13 TDs) returns as well. The Hokie defense must fill some holes, but defensive coordinator Bud Foster will have his unit ready to go by the opening game. The match-up against Boise State could set up a run for the title for one of those two teams. Also, if Miami can navigate their brutal out-of-conference schedule ( at Ohio State, at Pittsburgh, USF) they could be in the hunt for a BCS berth.
- The Big XII is wide open. Texas, like Florida, returns a ton of talent but much of it will be inexperienced. Oklahoma, who endured a rough season in 2009, also replaces several key faces but with Landry Jones back at quarterback their offense should be potent. However, it looks like the Nebraska Cornhuskers may be the team to beat in 2010 even without Ndamukong Suh anchoring the defense. Bo Pelini has his Huskers playing tough defense, and after a 10-win season in 2009 bigger things could be on the horizon.
- Clemson: As an alumnus, I have to talk about my Tigers for a bit. This past season probably exceeded most expectations with a long overdue trip to the conference title game. A 9-5 record was a solid debut for Dabo Swinney in his first year as coach, but a loss to woeful Maryland and in-state rival South Carolina clouded what could have been a stellar campaign (11-3 without those two pitiful games). Clemson's schedule gets much more difficult in 2010 with a non-conference trip to Auburn. Also, the conference schedule ramps up in difficulty as well.
Home games: Maryland, NC State, Miami, Georgia Tech, South Carolina, Presbyterian, North Texas
Away games: Florida State, North Carolina, Boston College, Wake Forest, Auburn
More on Clemson later...
- Ohio State will win the 2010 National Championship. After watching almost every bowl game I felt the most impressed by what Ohio State has for next season. Boise State may play against them, but their game against Virginia Tech is a real toss-up. I expect Alabama and Florida to slip back to the rest of the pack some and lose just enough games to keep an SEC representative out of the title game. I think parity will keep the SEC, Pac-10, Big East and Big XII champions out of the title game. A one-loss Virginia Tech, Miami or Georgia Tech could land themselves in the title game as well, since all should start the season highly ranked. Ultimately though, Boise State holds their title game chances in their own hands. If they go undefeated next season it will be incredibly difficult to keep them out of the BCS title bout.
- If Boise State wants to be mentioned among the elite programs, 2010 is their chance. The Broncos return every starter but one from 2009's undefeated team that shut down TCU in the Fiesta Bowl. Quarterback Kellen Moore deserves preseason Heisman consideration and the offense should be among the best in college football. The only thing standing in their way for a shot at the national championship are games against Oregon State and Virginia Tech, another team with national titel aspirations.
- Don't sleep on TCU, either. Gary Patterson's Horned Frogs lose several playmakers on defense, but they did last year too and just kept reloading. Quarterback Andy Dalton returns after a stellar 2009. Look for the Horned Frogs to capture the Mountain West crown again in 2010.
- Watch out for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Jim Tressel's team completely shutdown the vaunted offense of the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl and quarterback Terrelle Pryor flashed the promise that made him the nation's top-rated recruit in 2008. The entire offense and most of the defense returns next season, as well. The schedule features a visit from Miami(Fl.), Penn State and road trips to Wisconsin and Iowa. Much to the chagrin of many college football fans, the Buckeyes could be playing for the BCS Championship again next season.
- What to make of the Florida Gators? With head coach Urban Meyer's change of heart to take a leave of absence (after originally resigning),Tim Tebow's graduation, and defensive coordinator Charlie Strong leaving to become the head coach at Louisville, what will happen to this team? I see a step back, but not a collapse. Tebow will be replaced by another high school All-American, most likely John Brantley, who will be throwing passes to other former prep stars. I see this team still winning the SEC East, but not competing for the national title with road trips to Baton Rouge, Knoxville, and Tuscaloosa on the horizon.
- 2010 will end the SEC's string of national champions. Florida will still be arguably the most talented team in the country but must go through some growing pains in the transition. Alabama should be the class of the SEC once again, but after an intriguing non-conference game in Tuscaloosa against Penn State, the Tide must travel to Arkansas, Tennessee, South Carolin and LSU. Its difficult to imagine the 2010 Crimson Tide navigating all of that unscathed after all of their personnel losses from the previous year's outstanding defense.
Lost in all of the "SEC superiority" is the fact that it has basically become a two-team league. In both 2008 and 2009 it was Alabama and Florida and then everyone else below that. This was true in the bowls as well as LSU, Kentucky, Tennessee and South Carolina all lost their bowls, and the league overall was only 6-4 in the postseason.
- Speaking of the SEC, there are 3 sleeper teams to watch out for. Arkansas, South Carolina and Tennessee. While I think Florida will be down I still see them as the best team in the SEC East. The Gamecocks and Volunteers do threaten that, and the Gators must travel to Knoxville. Steve Spurrier's team returns virtually everyone, but will that be enough? Judging from the past all signs point to no, but it's not inconceivable to see the Gamecocks win 9 games in 2010. The same can be said of Lane Kiffin's Vols, but the week before they face the Gators they must take on the Oregon Ducks.
- The Pac-10 Championship goes through Oregon. With Joe McKnight surprisingly turning pro, Pete Carroll potentially leaving to coach in the NFL and Southern Cal's 9-4 record in 2009, all signs point to a downturn for the Trojans (even if it is only brief). The Oregon Ducks are the team to beat in the Pac-10 now with do-everything quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and speedy LaMichael James running the ball. Oregon State also plays into the mix with the twin brother duo of Jacquizz and James Rodgers keeping defensive coordinators up at night.
- The ACC Coastal Division will be one of the toughest in all of college football. While the ACC is unquestionably one of the weakest BCS conferences, the 2010 Coastal Division should be as hard fought as any in the land. Virginia Tech, Miami, North Carolina, and Georgia Tech will all lock horns for the right to play in the ACC Championship Game. Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech and possibly Miami should all be preseason top 15 teams as well, so this division will have BCS ramifications. Look for the Hokies to take that division as well as the ACC Conference Championship next season.
- The ACC will have a national championship contender. Whether it is Georgia Tech or Virginia Tech (or possibly Miami) someone from the ACC will emerge as a title contender. My money is on the Hokies who return one of the best backfields in the country with sophomores Ryan Williams and Darren Evans both the owners of 1,200+ yard rushing seasons. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor (2,311 yards, 13 TDs) returns as well. The Hokie defense must fill some holes, but defensive coordinator Bud Foster will have his unit ready to go by the opening game. The match-up against Boise State could set up a run for the title for one of those two teams. Also, if Miami can navigate their brutal out-of-conference schedule ( at Ohio State, at Pittsburgh, USF) they could be in the hunt for a BCS berth.
- The Big XII is wide open. Texas, like Florida, returns a ton of talent but much of it will be inexperienced. Oklahoma, who endured a rough season in 2009, also replaces several key faces but with Landry Jones back at quarterback their offense should be potent. However, it looks like the Nebraska Cornhuskers may be the team to beat in 2010 even without Ndamukong Suh anchoring the defense. Bo Pelini has his Huskers playing tough defense, and after a 10-win season in 2009 bigger things could be on the horizon.
- Clemson: As an alumnus, I have to talk about my Tigers for a bit. This past season probably exceeded most expectations with a long overdue trip to the conference title game. A 9-5 record was a solid debut for Dabo Swinney in his first year as coach, but a loss to woeful Maryland and in-state rival South Carolina clouded what could have been a stellar campaign (11-3 without those two pitiful games). Clemson's schedule gets much more difficult in 2010 with a non-conference trip to Auburn. Also, the conference schedule ramps up in difficulty as well.
Home games: Maryland, NC State, Miami, Georgia Tech, South Carolina, Presbyterian, North Texas
Away games: Florida State, North Carolina, Boston College, Wake Forest, Auburn
More on Clemson later...
- Ohio State will win the 2010 National Championship. After watching almost every bowl game I felt the most impressed by what Ohio State has for next season. Boise State may play against them, but their game against Virginia Tech is a real toss-up. I expect Alabama and Florida to slip back to the rest of the pack some and lose just enough games to keep an SEC representative out of the title game. I think parity will keep the SEC, Pac-10, Big East and Big XII champions out of the title game. A one-loss Virginia Tech, Miami or Georgia Tech could land themselves in the title game as well, since all should start the season highly ranked. Ultimately though, Boise State holds their title game chances in their own hands. If they go undefeated next season it will be incredibly difficult to keep them out of the BCS title bout.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Best Clemson Football Players: Last 20 Years
With news today that CJ Spiller has been named to yet another All-America team as an all-purpose player he now becomes one of the most decorated Tigers in school history. This season he was named a first-team All-American by the AP, Walter Camp Foundation, Sporting News, CBSSportsline.com, Rivals.com and Scout.com as an all-purpose back and/or return specialist. He amassed an incredible 2,508 (192.92 yards per game) all-purpose yards, which was 4th in the country, including 1,145 yards rushing, 445 receiving and 21 total touchdowns including a touchdown pass. Spiller, who was the ACC Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year, will certainly go into the books as one of the greatest Tigers of all-time. The Doak Walker Award finalist is also one of only 18 consensus All-Americans in Clemson history and only one of three unanimous All-Americans.
This leads me to ask; who are the greatest Clemson Tiger football players of all-time? To be hoenst, I would love to include guys like Fred Cone, Banks McFadden, Steve Fuller, etc. but since I was not yet born while they were wearing orange, I cannot attest to their greatness. Therefore this list is not comprehensive, but will include players from the 90s until today.
Here are the starters for the fictional all-time team from the past two decades:
Offense:
QB - Woody Dantzler (1998-2001)
Dantzler was the true definition of a dual threat quarterback during his career at Clemson. He became the first player in NCAA history to throw for 2,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards in the same season in 2001. He had back-to-back 1,000 yard rushing seasons his junior and senior years.
RB - CJ Spiller (2006-2009)
See above. Most electrifying and explosive player in college football player in 2009. Clemson career leader in all-purpose yards; almost doubles the yardage total of the next closest Tiger in the record books.
RB - Raymond Priester (1994-1997)
Clemson's all-time leading rusher was a 6'1" 235 lbs. bruiser who had back-to-back 1300+ yards rushing in his career, including the single season rushing record of 1,345 as a junior. Despite being such a straight ahead rusher, Priester managed to have an impressive career average of 4.9 ypc.
WR - Rod Gardner (1997-2000)
Gardner, who was a second-team All-ACC as a junior and first-team All-America and All-ACC as a senior, teamed with Dantzler to create an electrifying combo while in Tigertown. Gardner hauled in 80 receptions for 1,084 yards as a junior and another 58 receptions for 1,050 yards and 7 touchdowns as a senior.
WR - Aaron Kelly (2005-2008)
First team All-ACC performer in 2007 and honorable mention All-American after hauling in 88 receptions for 1,081 yards and 11 touchdowns. Became the ACC and Clemson all-time leader in career receptions in 2008 when he had 67 receptions for 722 yards and 4 scores. Was productive every year he was a Tiger, collecting 47 receptions as a freshman and 30 as a sophomore.
WR - Derrick Hamilton (2001-2003)
Hamilton left after his junior season to pursue a career in the NFL but was one of the most gamebreaking players in Clemson football history. His best season came in 2003 when he reeled in 63 receptions 1,026 yards and 10 scores. Much like Spiller and Horne, Hamilton was another all-purpose performer. He was both second-team All-ACC as a receiver and return specialist as a junior.
TE - Michael Palmer (2006-2009)
Palmer had a breakout season this past year in which he caught 41 passes for 468 yards and 4 TDs. He was also first-team All-ACC in 2009. His 41 receptions were far and away the most catches by a Clemson tight end in 25 years.
OT - Stacy Long (1986-1990)
Long barely makes his way into the last 20 years but was a two-time All-American in 1989 and 1990, including being named a consensus All-American in 1990 when he had 52 knockdown blocks in 601 plays.
OT - Jim Bundren (1994-1997)
Bundren was named Second-team All-America in 1997. One of only two Clemson players to have been named first-team All-ACC and Academic All-ACC in two consecutive seasons.
OG - Stacy Seegars (1990-1993)
Named second-team All-America in 1992 and first-team in 1993. Had 103 knockdown blocks as a junior and another 58 as a senior.
OG - Jeb Flesch (1988-1991)
Consensus first-team All-American in 1991. Recorded 77 pancake blocks in 1991.
C - Kyle Young (1998-2001)
He was named a second-team All-America in 2000 and third-team in 2001. He had 120 knockdown blocks and 168 knockdown blocks in his junior and senior years.
Defense:
DE - Gaines Adams (2003-2006)
Adams was one of the most decorated defensive players to ever play for the Tigers. He was named a unanimous first team All-America in 2006 when he recorded 12.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles-for-loss. He became the 4th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tied with Michael Dean Perry for most career sacks in Clemson history with 28.
DE - Adrian Dingle (1996-1999)
Set the then-Clemson record for sacks in a season with 10.5 in 1999 (which was broken the next season). He also had 15 tackles for loss in 1999.
DT - Rob Bodine (1989-1991)
Bodine was named a first-team All-American in 1991 when he had 108 tackles (27 for loss) and 7.5 sacks. He finished his career with 15 sacks and 48 tackles for loss.
DT - Trevor Pryce (1996)
Only played one season for the Tigers before jumping to the NFL after transferring from Michigan. Had a team-best 20 tackles for loss to go along with 7.5 sacks, which are very impressive numbers for an interior lineman. Pryce has gone on to a stellar NFL career as a defensive end for the Baltimore Ravens.
LB - Keith Adams (1998-2000)
Two-time , first team All-American (1999, 2000) who posted a single season record for sacks with 16 in '99. He also had an astonishing 35 tackles for loss that season to go along with 186 total tackles. He followed that up with 148 tackles (19 TFL) and 9 sacks the following season.
LB - Anthony Simmons (1995-1997)
One of the most decorated players to ever strap on a helmet for Clemson, Simmons was an All-American all three seasons he was a Tiger. He was a two-time, first team All-American as well. The Spartanburg, SC product had 150+ tackles all three seasons, highlighted by 25 tackles for loss and 8 sacks his junior year.
LB - Levon Kirkland (1988-1991)
Manned the outside linebacker position for the Tigers and was a two-time All-American (1990, 1991). He was a first team All-America in 1991 when he had 67 tackles, 12 for loss and 5.5 sacks. He went on to a stellar, All-Pro career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
CB - Antwan Edwards (1995-1998)
He was a third team All-American in 1998 and a first-team All-ACC selection as well. He was a second team All-ACC pick in 1997. He recorded 43 tackles with 2 interceptions in 1998, which followed a 52 tackle, 4 interception season the year prior.
CB - Tye Hill (2003-2005)
First team All-American in 2005 who had 54 tackles and 3 interceptions. The converted tailback had 21 passes broken up in 2004 and became a first round draft pick of the St. Louis Rams.
SS - Brian Dawkins (1992-1995)
This is an absolute no-brainer. Dawkins, who was a three-time All-ACC performer and second team All-American in 1995, will someday be in the NFL Hall of Fame. In 1995 Dawkins had 89 tackles to go along with 6 interceptions.
FS - Robert Carswell (1997-2000)
This was a tough pick but Carswell was a third-team All-American in 2000. He was a two-time First Team All-ACC pick as a free safety in 1999 and 2000. He had 129 tackles in 1999 and 6 interceptions, followed up by a 92 tackle, 2 interception performance the following year.
P - Chris Gardocki (1988-1990)
Two-time All-American in 1989 and 1990. Had 24 touchbacks on kickoffs in 1990 while also going 22-28 on field goals. He was a perfect 72-72 on extra points throughout his career. First team All-ACC in 1990 and 1989, 2nd team in 1988. He is also Clemson's career leader in punting average at 43. 48.
PK - Nelson Welch (1991-1994)
Third team All-American in 1992; First team All-ACC in 1991, second team All-ACC '92-'94. Hit on 72-101 field goal attempts and 301 points in his career.
Second team:
QB - Charlie Whitehurst
RB - James Davis, Travis Zachery
WR - Chansi Stuckey, Jacoby Ford, Tony Horne, Terry Smith
TE - Lamont Hall
OL - Dustin Fry, Glenn Roundtree, Will Young, Barry Richardson, Jim Bundren
K - Jad Dean
P - Kevin Laird
DE - Phillip Merling, Bryant McNeal
DT - Brentson Buckner, Donnell Washington
LB - Ed McDaniel, Leroy Hill, Chad Carson, Rahim Abdullah
DB - Justin Miller, DeAndre McDaniel, Dexter McCleon, Michael Hamlin
This leads me to ask; who are the greatest Clemson Tiger football players of all-time? To be hoenst, I would love to include guys like Fred Cone, Banks McFadden, Steve Fuller, etc. but since I was not yet born while they were wearing orange, I cannot attest to their greatness. Therefore this list is not comprehensive, but will include players from the 90s until today.
Here are the starters for the fictional all-time team from the past two decades:
Offense:
QB - Woody Dantzler (1998-2001)
Dantzler was the true definition of a dual threat quarterback during his career at Clemson. He became the first player in NCAA history to throw for 2,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards in the same season in 2001. He had back-to-back 1,000 yard rushing seasons his junior and senior years.
RB - CJ Spiller (2006-2009)
See above. Most electrifying and explosive player in college football player in 2009. Clemson career leader in all-purpose yards; almost doubles the yardage total of the next closest Tiger in the record books.
RB - Raymond Priester (1994-1997)
Clemson's all-time leading rusher was a 6'1" 235 lbs. bruiser who had back-to-back 1300+ yards rushing in his career, including the single season rushing record of 1,345 as a junior. Despite being such a straight ahead rusher, Priester managed to have an impressive career average of 4.9 ypc.
WR - Rod Gardner (1997-2000)
Gardner, who was a second-team All-ACC as a junior and first-team All-America and All-ACC as a senior, teamed with Dantzler to create an electrifying combo while in Tigertown. Gardner hauled in 80 receptions for 1,084 yards as a junior and another 58 receptions for 1,050 yards and 7 touchdowns as a senior.
WR - Aaron Kelly (2005-2008)
First team All-ACC performer in 2007 and honorable mention All-American after hauling in 88 receptions for 1,081 yards and 11 touchdowns. Became the ACC and Clemson all-time leader in career receptions in 2008 when he had 67 receptions for 722 yards and 4 scores. Was productive every year he was a Tiger, collecting 47 receptions as a freshman and 30 as a sophomore.
WR - Derrick Hamilton (2001-2003)
Hamilton left after his junior season to pursue a career in the NFL but was one of the most gamebreaking players in Clemson football history. His best season came in 2003 when he reeled in 63 receptions 1,026 yards and 10 scores. Much like Spiller and Horne, Hamilton was another all-purpose performer. He was both second-team All-ACC as a receiver and return specialist as a junior.
TE - Michael Palmer (2006-2009)
Palmer had a breakout season this past year in which he caught 41 passes for 468 yards and 4 TDs. He was also first-team All-ACC in 2009. His 41 receptions were far and away the most catches by a Clemson tight end in 25 years.
OT - Stacy Long (1986-1990)
Long barely makes his way into the last 20 years but was a two-time All-American in 1989 and 1990, including being named a consensus All-American in 1990 when he had 52 knockdown blocks in 601 plays.
OT - Jim Bundren (1994-1997)
Bundren was named Second-team All-America in 1997. One of only two Clemson players to have been named first-team All-ACC and Academic All-ACC in two consecutive seasons.
OG - Stacy Seegars (1990-1993)
Named second-team All-America in 1992 and first-team in 1993. Had 103 knockdown blocks as a junior and another 58 as a senior.
OG - Jeb Flesch (1988-1991)
Consensus first-team All-American in 1991. Recorded 77 pancake blocks in 1991.
C - Kyle Young (1998-2001)
He was named a second-team All-America in 2000 and third-team in 2001. He had 120 knockdown blocks and 168 knockdown blocks in his junior and senior years.
Defense:
DE - Gaines Adams (2003-2006)
Adams was one of the most decorated defensive players to ever play for the Tigers. He was named a unanimous first team All-America in 2006 when he recorded 12.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles-for-loss. He became the 4th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tied with Michael Dean Perry for most career sacks in Clemson history with 28.
DE - Adrian Dingle (1996-1999)
Set the then-Clemson record for sacks in a season with 10.5 in 1999 (which was broken the next season). He also had 15 tackles for loss in 1999.
DT - Rob Bodine (1989-1991)
Bodine was named a first-team All-American in 1991 when he had 108 tackles (27 for loss) and 7.5 sacks. He finished his career with 15 sacks and 48 tackles for loss.
DT - Trevor Pryce (1996)
Only played one season for the Tigers before jumping to the NFL after transferring from Michigan. Had a team-best 20 tackles for loss to go along with 7.5 sacks, which are very impressive numbers for an interior lineman. Pryce has gone on to a stellar NFL career as a defensive end for the Baltimore Ravens.
LB - Keith Adams (1998-2000)
Two-time , first team All-American (1999, 2000) who posted a single season record for sacks with 16 in '99. He also had an astonishing 35 tackles for loss that season to go along with 186 total tackles. He followed that up with 148 tackles (19 TFL) and 9 sacks the following season.
LB - Anthony Simmons (1995-1997)
One of the most decorated players to ever strap on a helmet for Clemson, Simmons was an All-American all three seasons he was a Tiger. He was a two-time, first team All-American as well. The Spartanburg, SC product had 150+ tackles all three seasons, highlighted by 25 tackles for loss and 8 sacks his junior year.
LB - Levon Kirkland (1988-1991)
Manned the outside linebacker position for the Tigers and was a two-time All-American (1990, 1991). He was a first team All-America in 1991 when he had 67 tackles, 12 for loss and 5.5 sacks. He went on to a stellar, All-Pro career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
CB - Antwan Edwards (1995-1998)
He was a third team All-American in 1998 and a first-team All-ACC selection as well. He was a second team All-ACC pick in 1997. He recorded 43 tackles with 2 interceptions in 1998, which followed a 52 tackle, 4 interception season the year prior.
CB - Tye Hill (2003-2005)
First team All-American in 2005 who had 54 tackles and 3 interceptions. The converted tailback had 21 passes broken up in 2004 and became a first round draft pick of the St. Louis Rams.
SS - Brian Dawkins (1992-1995)
This is an absolute no-brainer. Dawkins, who was a three-time All-ACC performer and second team All-American in 1995, will someday be in the NFL Hall of Fame. In 1995 Dawkins had 89 tackles to go along with 6 interceptions.
FS - Robert Carswell (1997-2000)
This was a tough pick but Carswell was a third-team All-American in 2000. He was a two-time First Team All-ACC pick as a free safety in 1999 and 2000. He had 129 tackles in 1999 and 6 interceptions, followed up by a 92 tackle, 2 interception performance the following year.
P - Chris Gardocki (1988-1990)
Two-time All-American in 1989 and 1990. Had 24 touchbacks on kickoffs in 1990 while also going 22-28 on field goals. He was a perfect 72-72 on extra points throughout his career. First team All-ACC in 1990 and 1989, 2nd team in 1988. He is also Clemson's career leader in punting average at 43. 48.
PK - Nelson Welch (1991-1994)
Third team All-American in 1992; First team All-ACC in 1991, second team All-ACC '92-'94. Hit on 72-101 field goal attempts and 301 points in his career.
Second team:
QB - Charlie Whitehurst
RB - James Davis, Travis Zachery
WR - Chansi Stuckey, Jacoby Ford, Tony Horne, Terry Smith
TE - Lamont Hall
OL - Dustin Fry, Glenn Roundtree, Will Young, Barry Richardson, Jim Bundren
K - Jad Dean
P - Kevin Laird
DE - Phillip Merling, Bryant McNeal
DT - Brentson Buckner, Donnell Washington
LB - Ed McDaniel, Leroy Hill, Chad Carson, Rahim Abdullah
DB - Justin Miller, DeAndre McDaniel, Dexter McCleon, Michael Hamlin
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Best Christmas Movies
'Tis the season where all of our holiday classics come back to life either on DVD, television or for the really cherished relics - the VCR. It's personally not truly Christmas for me unless I see certain films this time of year. Like looking at lights or decorating the tree, viewing(s) of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" and "A Christmas Story" are a tradition I have to take part in. Without further ado, here is a list of my personal Top 5 Christmas movies:
1.) National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
No matter how many times I see Clark W. Griswold (Chevy Chase) rant about his "brainless ,dickless, hopeless" boss I can't help but crack up. This John Hughes' classic really illustrates that no matter how much we try to make every Christmas the idealized, Norman Rockwell-inspired holiday, we often fall short. This film also shows that that's ok, and you can still have a great time being less than perfect. From crazy cousin Eddie to the snoddy neighbors (one of which played by pre-Seinfeld Julia Louis-Dreyfus), this movie piles on the holiday disasters with hilarious consequences.
2.) A Christmas Story (1983)
Never have the words "you'll shoot you're eye out" ever caused such a frenzy. The prophecy of doom that accompanied the inclusion of a Red Rider B-B gun on little Ralphie Parker's (Peter Billingsley) Christmas list fueled one of the funniest Christmas films ever made. What makes this film such a holiday staple is it's midwestern-based values and familiarity. It has a uniquely American feel to it that transcends generations and takes all of us back to the time when we too wrote letters to Santa Claus and could barely sleep a wink on December 24th. Based on the material from short stories by Jean Shepherd, TBS now airs 24 hours straight of "A Christmas Story" on December 24-25th.
3.) Mickey's Christmas Carol (1983)
Mickey Mouse plays Bob Cratchit in Disney's animated version of the Charles Dickens' classic. Ebenezer Scrooge is portrayed by the aptly named Scrooge McDuck, and the usual cast of characters fill in the other roles admirably. One reason I rank this film so highly is that it actually does a good job of depicting real emotion. At the end of Scrooge's visit from the Ghost of Christmas Future, he falls into his own crypt. The flames emanating from his coffin, coupled with his own struggle to maintain grasp of the root that prevents him from tumbling into it, create a very powerful scene for an animated film. Also, for some reason, I find the way Tiny Tim is depicted in this film more sympathy-inducing than in other adaptations. Disney presents Tiny Tim as a child who has a fighting chance but will not survive in his current economic situation, which is very difficult to evoke in an animated feature.
4.) White Christmas (1954)
This oldie is a classic simply because of Bing Crosby's timeless song of the same name. It is campy at times, as are most movies in the musical genre. Crosby and Danny Kaye's performance however is very good and something about this film just reeks of winter days, Christmas trees, stockings and goodwill towards man. I find that it serves as a Christmas pep rally of sorts.
5.) Bad Santa (2003)
Ok....so it's not really a "Christmas" movie. It is actually a very vulgar movie that earns every bit of it's R-rating. I can say as well that if I do not see this movie around Christmastime that's ok; it's just as enjoyable in June. However, it is hilarious and Billy Bob Thornton is the ultimate curmudgeon as Willie, the drunken, horny mall santa on a crime binge. Beyond all of the swearing and poor morals exhibited by almost all of the characters in the film, it is actually a movie with a good heart behind the crusty exterior. Willie befriends a young boy named Thurman Murman (portrayed by Brett Kelly and credited only as "The Kid") who is bullied and hardly has any guidance from home. Seeing an opportunity to take advantage Thurman, Willie moves in with him as a hideout of sorts until he and his compandre Marcus can rob the mall where they work behind the guise of Santa and his elf. Through it all Willie becomes attached and protective of Thurman and grows to be a sort of father-figure for the boy. This movie really morphs into a real-life story of the Grinch in that Willie came into town to live a lie, steal and get out but winds up staying and finding a home.
Honorable mentions for me include your typical holiday classics such as "It's A Wonderful Life" and "Home Alone" but those listed above really put me in the holiday spirit (except for "Bad Santa", which just makes me laugh).
1.) National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
No matter how many times I see Clark W. Griswold (Chevy Chase) rant about his "brainless ,dickless, hopeless" boss I can't help but crack up. This John Hughes' classic really illustrates that no matter how much we try to make every Christmas the idealized, Norman Rockwell-inspired holiday, we often fall short. This film also shows that that's ok, and you can still have a great time being less than perfect. From crazy cousin Eddie to the snoddy neighbors (one of which played by pre-Seinfeld Julia Louis-Dreyfus), this movie piles on the holiday disasters with hilarious consequences.
2.) A Christmas Story (1983)
Never have the words "you'll shoot you're eye out" ever caused such a frenzy. The prophecy of doom that accompanied the inclusion of a Red Rider B-B gun on little Ralphie Parker's (Peter Billingsley) Christmas list fueled one of the funniest Christmas films ever made. What makes this film such a holiday staple is it's midwestern-based values and familiarity. It has a uniquely American feel to it that transcends generations and takes all of us back to the time when we too wrote letters to Santa Claus and could barely sleep a wink on December 24th. Based on the material from short stories by Jean Shepherd, TBS now airs 24 hours straight of "A Christmas Story" on December 24-25th.
3.) Mickey's Christmas Carol (1983)
Mickey Mouse plays Bob Cratchit in Disney's animated version of the Charles Dickens' classic. Ebenezer Scrooge is portrayed by the aptly named Scrooge McDuck, and the usual cast of characters fill in the other roles admirably. One reason I rank this film so highly is that it actually does a good job of depicting real emotion. At the end of Scrooge's visit from the Ghost of Christmas Future, he falls into his own crypt. The flames emanating from his coffin, coupled with his own struggle to maintain grasp of the root that prevents him from tumbling into it, create a very powerful scene for an animated film. Also, for some reason, I find the way Tiny Tim is depicted in this film more sympathy-inducing than in other adaptations. Disney presents Tiny Tim as a child who has a fighting chance but will not survive in his current economic situation, which is very difficult to evoke in an animated feature.
4.) White Christmas (1954)
This oldie is a classic simply because of Bing Crosby's timeless song of the same name. It is campy at times, as are most movies in the musical genre. Crosby and Danny Kaye's performance however is very good and something about this film just reeks of winter days, Christmas trees, stockings and goodwill towards man. I find that it serves as a Christmas pep rally of sorts.
5.) Bad Santa (2003)
Ok....so it's not really a "Christmas" movie. It is actually a very vulgar movie that earns every bit of it's R-rating. I can say as well that if I do not see this movie around Christmastime that's ok; it's just as enjoyable in June. However, it is hilarious and Billy Bob Thornton is the ultimate curmudgeon as Willie, the drunken, horny mall santa on a crime binge. Beyond all of the swearing and poor morals exhibited by almost all of the characters in the film, it is actually a movie with a good heart behind the crusty exterior. Willie befriends a young boy named Thurman Murman (portrayed by Brett Kelly and credited only as "The Kid") who is bullied and hardly has any guidance from home. Seeing an opportunity to take advantage Thurman, Willie moves in with him as a hideout of sorts until he and his compandre Marcus can rob the mall where they work behind the guise of Santa and his elf. Through it all Willie becomes attached and protective of Thurman and grows to be a sort of father-figure for the boy. This movie really morphs into a real-life story of the Grinch in that Willie came into town to live a lie, steal and get out but winds up staying and finding a home.
Honorable mentions for me include your typical holiday classics such as "It's A Wonderful Life" and "Home Alone" but those listed above really put me in the holiday spirit (except for "Bad Santa", which just makes me laugh).
Monday, November 30, 2009
Heisman Trophy Update
After rivalry week the Heisman campaigns of some received a major boost while some took a step back. Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, who exploded for 304 yards passing with 4 TDs and another 175 yards rushing in a hard-fought win over rival Texas A&M, saw his campaign roar back to life. He now stands as a serious contender when only a few weeks ago he was on the outside looking in. Clemson running back C.J. Spiller, who became the NCAA all-time leader in kickoff returns for touchdowns, accomplished little else in a 34-17 beatdown by the University of South Carolina. Spiller had a fumble, 18 yards rushing and 19 yards receiving. He did secure the kickoff returns record on an 88-yard return for a score in the first quarter but had little else go his way on Saturday. The same can be said for Alabama's Mark Ingram. He managed only 30 yards rushing on 16 attempts against Auburn as the Tide narrowly escaped the upset. Freshman running back Trent Richardson actually received the bulk of the work late in the game as the Tide clawed back to win the game.
Florida quarterback took advantage of the lowly Florida State defense in his last appearance at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, a.k.a. "The Swamp" in their 37-10 thwarting of the Seminoles. Tebow finished 17-21 for 221 yards passing and added 90 yards to go with 3 passing touchdowns and 2 rushing in the contest. Stanford tailback Toby Gerhart had a monster game to push the Cardinal past a pesky Notre Dame squad as well. Gerhart ran 29 times for 205 yards en route to finding the endzone three times.
After this past Saturday it's very long shot odds now for Spiller. He would have to come up huge in the conference championship game against Georgia Tech, who themselves were upset by rival Georgia. Even with a monster game against the Yellow Jackets, Spiller will still be on a 4 loss team in a mediocre conference. While no one questions his incredible ability and impact on the Tigers' success, few will give the award to a noteworthy player on just a "good" team. The same can be said for Tebow, in my opinion. While he plays on a great team he has only good numbers. He is projected to throw for only 18 touchdowns this year, which is certainly not a bad year but a far cry from a Heisman year. Nevertheless, when on an undefeated team a big performance in the SEC title game could put him back in the top 3. Especially since the winner of that game earns the right to play for the national title.
At this point my vote would go to Gerhart. He has put up huge numbers for a team that clearly would not be where they are without him. McCoy was also very impressive against the Aggies and can further add to his chances with a similar performance against fellow Heisman competitor Ndamukong Suh and Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship. If his undefeated squad wins, then they will face the SEC Champion for the BCS national championship. My order at this late juncture would be as follows:
1.) Toby Gerhart
2.) Colt McCoy
3.) Mark Ingram
4.) CJ Spiller
5.) Tim Tebow
Florida quarterback took advantage of the lowly Florida State defense in his last appearance at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, a.k.a. "The Swamp" in their 37-10 thwarting of the Seminoles. Tebow finished 17-21 for 221 yards passing and added 90 yards to go with 3 passing touchdowns and 2 rushing in the contest. Stanford tailback Toby Gerhart had a monster game to push the Cardinal past a pesky Notre Dame squad as well. Gerhart ran 29 times for 205 yards en route to finding the endzone three times.
After this past Saturday it's very long shot odds now for Spiller. He would have to come up huge in the conference championship game against Georgia Tech, who themselves were upset by rival Georgia. Even with a monster game against the Yellow Jackets, Spiller will still be on a 4 loss team in a mediocre conference. While no one questions his incredible ability and impact on the Tigers' success, few will give the award to a noteworthy player on just a "good" team. The same can be said for Tebow, in my opinion. While he plays on a great team he has only good numbers. He is projected to throw for only 18 touchdowns this year, which is certainly not a bad year but a far cry from a Heisman year. Nevertheless, when on an undefeated team a big performance in the SEC title game could put him back in the top 3. Especially since the winner of that game earns the right to play for the national title.
At this point my vote would go to Gerhart. He has put up huge numbers for a team that clearly would not be where they are without him. McCoy was also very impressive against the Aggies and can further add to his chances with a similar performance against fellow Heisman competitor Ndamukong Suh and Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship. If his undefeated squad wins, then they will face the SEC Champion for the BCS national championship. My order at this late juncture would be as follows:
1.) Toby Gerhart
2.) Colt McCoy
3.) Mark Ingram
4.) CJ Spiller
5.) Tim Tebow
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Heisman Trophy Candidates
As the college football season comes to an end, the postseason award race begins to heat up. No award is bigger in college football than the Heisman Memorial Trophy. This year, unlike season’s past, the race is still somewhat up in the air and there is no clear-cut favorite or favorites. Oddly enough all three finalists for the award last season returned to school and it is very likely none will be returning this year. Sam Bradford, last year’s winner, suffered a season-ending shoulder injury and has been out of the race for some time. Texas quarterback Colt McCoy is having a very good season for the undefeated and 3rd-ranked Longhorns, but not a spectacular one. The same goes for Florida’s Tim Tebow who became the first underclassmen to win the award in 2007. Despite the Gators top-ranking and undefeated season, Tebow is not having the kind of individual statistics that usually accompany the winner of the Heisman.
This season it appears that the award may go to one of a bevy of talented running backs. Gene Menez of CNNSI.com has running backs as his top 3 spots as of November 16th. Leading the way for Menez, and many other pundits, is sophomore Mark Ingram of the 2nd-ranked (and undefeated) Alabama Crimson Tide. Ingram has rushed for 1,297 yards (6.6 ypc) and 10 touchdowns. He also has 25 receptions for 225 yards and 3 more scores. He has been the workhorse for the Tide who will play Tebow’s Gators for the SEC Championship in a game laden with subplots.
Toby Gerhart is a 235 lbs. bruiser who is spearheading Jim Harbaugh’s Stanford team. His stock has soared in recent weeks as the 14th-ranked Cardinal have beaten then-number 8 Oregon and then-9th-ranked Southern California in consecutive weeks. He has rushed for 1,395 yards and with 19 trips to the endzone. His team has Rose Bowl hopes, which would only strengthen his case, and ends their regular season on the national stage on Nov. 28 against beleaguered Notre Dame.
CJ Spiller has done it all this season for the 18th-ranked Clemson Tigers. He has 836 yards rushing, 382 yards receiving, and a combined 734 on returns with a combined 15 total touchdowns after his touchdown pass this past Saturday. He is 3rd in the nation in all-purpose yards and had an incredible string of a big-plays early in the season where he had a play of 60 yards or longer in the Tigers’ first 6 games. Hindering his chances are the fact that his team is 7-3, but they control their own destiny in their division and can reach the ACC Championship Game with a win Saturday over Virginia. A big game to clinch the division followed by stellar performances against rival South Carolina and 7th-ranked Georgia Tech in the conference championship would bolster his chances.
Jordan Shipley is a player I am surprised is not higher on many lists. The senior wide receiver for the Longhorns is McCoy’s favorite target and roommate. After battling serious knee injuries throughout the early part of his career, the 23-year old has 81 receptions for 1,096 yards and 8 touchdowns. He also has 2 touchdowns this season from punt returns. I have to speculate that his chances are hurt by the fact that he is on the same team with McCoy and voters may speculate is he a fortunate recipient of a great quarterback?
Ndamukong Suh is the only defensive player on many lists. The Nebraska defensive tackle has been a dominant force upfront all season and has 13 tackles for loss to go along with 5 sacks and 56 tackles. He has also blocked 3 kicks this season. Ultimately, there is a very slim chance that any defense-only player will ever win this award, especially an interior lineman that may well dominate the game by tying up the opposing teams offensive linemen and allowing his linebackers free to roam and make plays. Those are not the kinds of plays that make Sportscenter’s Top 10.
Staying on the defensive side of the ball, Tennessee safety Eric Berry has had a fantastic season for the Volunteers. Berry, who is on pace for an 84 tackle season, who has 2 interceptions just won’t have eye-popping enough numbers for a defensive player to win the award on a team that is 5-5.
If I were voting, I would probably give it to Ingram but Spiller makes a strong case. Even without my Clemson bias I can see that he is the best overall football player in the nation. He has done it all and he has incredible physical talent. He is one of the fastest players in the country and is the biggest home run threat in the country. I ultimately give the nod to Ingram however due to his consistency and ability to step up and carry his team in big games this season when their passing game wasn’t getting the job done. The next month should be very interesting in how the Heisman race unfolds. If Ingram fumbles away the SEC Championship or Spiller runs away from the Cavaliers, Gamecocks and Jackets then we may have a different verdict. Same goes for a Gerhart-led Cardinal making its way to the Rose Bowl.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Greatest College Football Team Ever?
With the college football season less than one week away, the discussion has already begun as to where this year's Florida Gators stacks up historically. With virtually everyone of importance returning from last season's national championship team and a living college legend at quarterback, many are hailing them as the heirs to the 'greatest of all-time' throne. Obviously, this is all null and void if they do not defend their national championship in January, but it makes for interesting discussion presently.
In 2005, the University of Southern California Trojans were trying to win their third straight national championship. Heisman-winning quarterback Matt Leinart, all-everything tailback Reggie Bush and a bevy of talent on both sides of the ball earned them a preseason #1 ranking. The Trojans dashed through the regular season undefeated, surviving a scare from Notre Dame in South Bend and a feisty Fresno State team along the way. Bush went on to win the Heisman and helped lead the Trojans to the BCS National Championship game where they faced the Texas Longhorns and quarterback Vince Young, the Heisman runner-up. In an epic game that highlighted one of the great personal performances of all-time by Young, the Trojans were upset in the Rose Bowl, 41-38. While this loss forever kept them from being included in the pantheon of all-time greats, the Trojans did enjoy a run of success that included back-to-back national championships in 2003 (which they split with LSU) and 2004. This season's Florida team, much like USC previously, will be shooting for their third national title in the decade.
Why the 2009 Gators Could Be Great
It all starts with the man under center - Tim Tebow. CNNSI.com college football writer Stewart Mandel recently published an article about Tebow's place in history, and his numbers stack up to anyone's. A true dual threat, the 6'3" 245 lbs. Tebow can lower his shoulder and run over a linebacker or step up in the pocket and deliver a downfield strike. His leadership abilities have become the stuff of legend. Last season he threw 30 touchdowns against only 4 interceptions. He passed for 2,746 yards while rushing for 673 and 12 more scores en route to being the Heisman runner-up. The previous season, in which he became the first underclassmen to win the Heisman, he rushed for 23 TDs, threw for 32 and passed for over 3,000 yards. He is joined by a stellar offensive line and some of the speediest (albeit undersized) tailbacks in the nation with Chris Rainey (652 yards, 4 TDs last season) and Jeff Demps (605 yards, 7 TDs).
The receiving corps lost Percy Harvin to the Minnesota Vikings but returns stellar tight end Aaron Hernandez (34 receptions, 5 TDs). Riley Cooper, Deonte Thompson and a cast of former blue chip recruits will be on the receiving end of Tebow's tosses. The offensive line returns twin brothers Maurkice and Mike Pouncey at the guard spots and LT Carl Johnson.
The defense returns all 11 starters from last season, most notably MLB Brandon Spikes. Return man Brandon James, a diminutive scatback at 5'7", is a constant threat as well to take every return to the endzone.
The Gators will likely be favored in every game on their schedule, although there are some potential setbacks in the always brutal SEC. October 10th is a night game at LSU, which promises to be a tough, physical battle. On Halloween the Gators square off against the Georgia Bulldogs in one of the most heated rivalries in college sports. However, this year's Gators will be seen as a dissapointment if they are not playing in the Rose Bowl on January 7, 2010.
Who is the Greatest of All-Time?
Recent teams that are currently up for the crown have to start with the 2001 Miami Hurricanes. With safety Ed Reed, running back Clinton Portis, tight end Jeremy Shockey, wide receiver Andre Johnson, two-time All-American offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie, and Maxwell Award-winning quarterback Ken Dorsey leading the way, the Hurricanes steamrolled through much of college football. Their only true challenge came against #14 Virginia Tech, which they defeated 26-24. They claimed the national championship by defeating 4th-ranked Nebraska in the Rose Bowl 37-14. Their explosive offense averaged 42.6 ppg while the defense allowed a stingy 9.7. This team produced an astounding 16 first-round NFL draft picks.
The 2004 USC Trojans were the second team in college football history to go "wire-to-wire", meaning that they entered the season ranked #1 and never faltered en route to a 13-0 season. Leinart won the Heisman and the world was introduced to Reggie Bush and his elusive moves in the open field. He was joined in the backfield by the bruising LenDale White. They averaged 38.2 ppg and allowed a paltry 13.0 ppg. They defeated #2 Oklahoma 55-19 in the Sugar Bowl, dominating the game from start to finish and leaving little doubt as to who the best team in the country was.
The 1999 Florida State team became the first team in college football history to go "wire-to-wire" in going 12-0. Quarterback Chris Weinke, who won the Heisman Trophy, passed for 25 TDs, many of which went to two-time All-American Peter Warrick. The Seminoles survived a few close calls against #10 Georgia Tech, #19 Miami, and unranked Clemson in the first ever meeting between father and son head coaches when Bobby Bowden narrowly beat son Tommy. They also defeated #3 Florida 30-23 at The Swamp to close out the regular season. The Seminoles offense averaged 38.2 ppg and the defense gave up 16.9.
The 1995 Nebraska Cornhuskers and their triple option running attack pummelled the college football landscape despite being ranked #2 for most of the season. Heisman-winning quarterback Tommie Frazier rushed for 803 yards and 16 TDs while passing for 1,467 and 18 more scores against only 6 INTs. He was joined in the backfield by future NFL running backs Ahman Green (1,086, 13 TDs) and Lawrence Phillips. The defense was highlighted by defensive back Mike Minter, and defensive linemen Mike Rucker, Christian Peter and Grant Wistrom. This team averaged an unbelievable 52. 4 ppg and allowed only 12.1 ppg. Perhaps most impressively, the Huskers embarrassed the #2-ranked Florida Gators, 62 - 24. Their closest contest was a 35-21 win over Washington State. They defeated four top ten teams as well, the closest of which was a 44-21 win over #7 Colorado. This was their second consecutive national title.
Who Is the "Greatest"?
In 2005, the University of Southern California Trojans were trying to win their third straight national championship. Heisman-winning quarterback Matt Leinart, all-everything tailback Reggie Bush and a bevy of talent on both sides of the ball earned them a preseason #1 ranking. The Trojans dashed through the regular season undefeated, surviving a scare from Notre Dame in South Bend and a feisty Fresno State team along the way. Bush went on to win the Heisman and helped lead the Trojans to the BCS National Championship game where they faced the Texas Longhorns and quarterback Vince Young, the Heisman runner-up. In an epic game that highlighted one of the great personal performances of all-time by Young, the Trojans were upset in the Rose Bowl, 41-38. While this loss forever kept them from being included in the pantheon of all-time greats, the Trojans did enjoy a run of success that included back-to-back national championships in 2003 (which they split with LSU) and 2004. This season's Florida team, much like USC previously, will be shooting for their third national title in the decade.
Why the 2009 Gators Could Be Great
It all starts with the man under center - Tim Tebow. CNNSI.com college football writer Stewart Mandel recently published an article about Tebow's place in history, and his numbers stack up to anyone's. A true dual threat, the 6'3" 245 lbs. Tebow can lower his shoulder and run over a linebacker or step up in the pocket and deliver a downfield strike. His leadership abilities have become the stuff of legend. Last season he threw 30 touchdowns against only 4 interceptions. He passed for 2,746 yards while rushing for 673 and 12 more scores en route to being the Heisman runner-up. The previous season, in which he became the first underclassmen to win the Heisman, he rushed for 23 TDs, threw for 32 and passed for over 3,000 yards. He is joined by a stellar offensive line and some of the speediest (albeit undersized) tailbacks in the nation with Chris Rainey (652 yards, 4 TDs last season) and Jeff Demps (605 yards, 7 TDs).The receiving corps lost Percy Harvin to the Minnesota Vikings but returns stellar tight end Aaron Hernandez (34 receptions, 5 TDs). Riley Cooper, Deonte Thompson and a cast of former blue chip recruits will be on the receiving end of Tebow's tosses. The offensive line returns twin brothers Maurkice and Mike Pouncey at the guard spots and LT Carl Johnson.
The defense returns all 11 starters from last season, most notably MLB Brandon Spikes. Return man Brandon James, a diminutive scatback at 5'7", is a constant threat as well to take every return to the endzone.
The Gators will likely be favored in every game on their schedule, although there are some potential setbacks in the always brutal SEC. October 10th is a night game at LSU, which promises to be a tough, physical battle. On Halloween the Gators square off against the Georgia Bulldogs in one of the most heated rivalries in college sports. However, this year's Gators will be seen as a dissapointment if they are not playing in the Rose Bowl on January 7, 2010.
Who is the Greatest of All-Time?
Recent teams that are currently up for the crown have to start with the 2001 Miami Hurricanes. With safety Ed Reed, running back Clinton Portis, tight end Jeremy Shockey, wide receiver Andre Johnson, two-time All-American offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie, and Maxwell Award-winning quarterback Ken Dorsey leading the way, the Hurricanes steamrolled through much of college football. Their only true challenge came against #14 Virginia Tech, which they defeated 26-24. They claimed the national championship by defeating 4th-ranked Nebraska in the Rose Bowl 37-14. Their explosive offense averaged 42.6 ppg while the defense allowed a stingy 9.7. This team produced an astounding 16 first-round NFL draft picks.
The 2004 USC Trojans were the second team in college football history to go "wire-to-wire", meaning that they entered the season ranked #1 and never faltered en route to a 13-0 season. Leinart won the Heisman and the world was introduced to Reggie Bush and his elusive moves in the open field. He was joined in the backfield by the bruising LenDale White. They averaged 38.2 ppg and allowed a paltry 13.0 ppg. They defeated #2 Oklahoma 55-19 in the Sugar Bowl, dominating the game from start to finish and leaving little doubt as to who the best team in the country was.
The 1999 Florida State team became the first team in college football history to go "wire-to-wire" in going 12-0. Quarterback Chris Weinke, who won the Heisman Trophy, passed for 25 TDs, many of which went to two-time All-American Peter Warrick. The Seminoles survived a few close calls against #10 Georgia Tech, #19 Miami, and unranked Clemson in the first ever meeting between father and son head coaches when Bobby Bowden narrowly beat son Tommy. They also defeated #3 Florida 30-23 at The Swamp to close out the regular season. The Seminoles offense averaged 38.2 ppg and the defense gave up 16.9.
The 1995 Nebraska Cornhuskers and their triple option running attack pummelled the college football landscape despite being ranked #2 for most of the season. Heisman-winning quarterback Tommie Frazier rushed for 803 yards and 16 TDs while passing for 1,467 and 18 more scores against only 6 INTs. He was joined in the backfield by future NFL running backs Ahman Green (1,086, 13 TDs) and Lawrence Phillips. The defense was highlighted by defensive back Mike Minter, and defensive linemen Mike Rucker, Christian Peter and Grant Wistrom. This team averaged an unbelievable 52. 4 ppg and allowed only 12.1 ppg. Perhaps most impressively, the Huskers embarrassed the #2-ranked Florida Gators, 62 - 24. Their closest contest was a 35-21 win over Washington State. They defeated four top ten teams as well, the closest of which was a 44-21 win over #7 Colorado. This was their second consecutive national title.
Who Is the "Greatest"?
While it is pretty unimportant and impossible to prove, I believe that the greatest college football team ever (or at least in the past 25 years) is the 1995 Nebraska Cornhuskers. While the 2001 Miami team may have been more talented, no team has dominated their opponents the way that Husker team did. Coached by the venerable Tom Osborne, the Huskers ran the option with surgical precision. Frazier was a better runner than passer, but he did both with aplomb. Ahman Green and Lawrence Phillips were bullish runners with speed, and the way their defense absolutely shut down the Gators and the vaunted Steve Spurrier offense in the Fiesta Bowl was shocking. By the numbers this team was incomparable. Offensively, they averaged 556.3 yards per game while giving up only 294. They averaged a shade under 400 on the ground per game and allowed only 78.3. They forced 20 interceptions.
The 2001 Hurricanes are a close - and a very close - second. They may have had the greatest defense college football has ever seen. However, in my opinion, physically this Nebraska team was just more dominant. They didn't beat teams, as the other contenders for this crown did, they beat them up. Their offensive line was a punishing group of Midwesterners that left a collection of bodies in their wake. Ahman Green and Lawrence Phillips were lethal whether was running to the outside or up the middle. The only weakness of that Huskers team was their receivers, which was largely due to their lack of use - not talent. Likewise, Miami had a fantastic offensive line in 2001 that rarely allowed Dorsey to be touched while looking downfield. However, one big factor is that Osborne was a far better coach than Larry Coker of Miami. Should these two teams meet in some mythical, winner-take-all game for the ages, look for Osborne's team to be better prepared and win a bruiser over the 2001 'Canes.
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