Pretty Fair Assessment on WVU

[hokie4redskins]

Don't shoot the messenger.

http://www.collegefootballnews.com/big_east/2006_Previews/WestVirginia_preview.htm

This my be a top ten-caliber team, but it's not good enough to get through the ACC, SEC, Big Ten, Pac 10, or Big 12 South without two losses. While other national title contenders are playing other big boys, West Virginia plays three teams that went to bowls last year, and two of them are South Florida and Rutgers. You'll have to forgive fans of Florida, Texas, Ohio State, LSU, USC, and Notre Dame if they're going to scream and yell in the debate about who deserves what at the end of the year.

[PleaseBlitz]

Fair to H4S = says bad stuff about WVU. :rolleyes:


Upon further review. Please click the link on that page for Further Analysis.

http://www.collegefootballnews.com/big_east/2006_Previews/WestVirginia_FA.htm


Slaton and White make that offense go. They could make any offense go. If the Mountaineers ran ‘old school’ wishbone triple option, they would still carve up defenses like your local butcher slices up genoa salami. Many think White is the straw stirring the drink, and the command that he has of this offense is quite impressive. But, Slaton is so explosive when he has the ball in his hands, he takes this offense up another complete notch. When he got into the secondary against Georgia, quite frankly, the film looked to be going in fast forward. The problem was that he was moving at a pace that the red and black wasn’t. But, once White started feeling more comfortable with the passing game and the reads within this offense, that’s when this offense got scary. So, who’s more important? Does it really matter? Maybe the better question is who’ll stop them if they can handle adversity that they couldn’t handle in 2004. Then, people can understand once and for all – it’s never about the scheme, it’s about the pieces. And, West Virginia’s ‘pieces’ are exceptional. End of story.

2nd and Seven – A big piece in the middle – This Mozes won’t walk on water or offer any commandments, all Dan Mozes does is control the middle of the Mountaineer offensive line, doing it well enough to be one of the best centers in all of college football. Similar to his West coast counterpart USC’s Ryan Kalil, Mozes isn’t a huge 300 pound ‘fat guy’, but when it comes to coming off the ball and technique, he’s tremendous. He maintains a low base and gets leverage on most every defensive lineman that he faces. He won’t wow you with 5 yard drive blocks, but he doesn’t miss guys either. Mozes has good feet and if he has to be a position blocker on the backside to eliminate any backside pursuit from DTs, he’ll do that. With having to find two new offensive tackles, Mozes is that much more valuable in the middle to keep that quintet together and focused. They don’t have to do much to open holes for Slaton, White and Owen Schmitt, but Mozes’s first commandment, oh shoot, sorry, no commandment comments.


3rd and Three – A piece of Boo – Nicknamed “Boo’, Kevin McLee was one of the guys that had to step up in 2005, if the Mountaineers were to have a big season. Hmm, seems as though, he took care of his responsibilities. McLee was a big-time play maker throughout the season, registering 78 tackles, along with 7 tackles for a loss. With his speed and his ability to be in the right place at the right time, McLee is invaluable to this defense. The ability to step up and play against the run, as well as blitz the corner gives McLee his ‘role’ on this defense. Jay Henry also returns at the linebacker position and will put a hat through you as a ball carrier, but McLee gives West Virginia the dynamic presence that is needed to stop the offensive attacks in this league.

4th and One – New pieces in key places – Two key losses on defense in the secondary are safeties Mike Lorello and Jahmile Addae. Okay, maybe using the label safety on Lorello isn’t exactly 100% on point, but that’s what made him great – he could morph into a weakside linebacker role just as much as he could play in coverage. Addae didn’t have the best 2005 season, but he was a physical presence in the middle who hammered anyone who ventured into his area. But, with those two out of eligibility, the onus falls on Eric Wicks to take over the leadership role in the secondary this year. Wicks played throughout the year at strong safety and had a solid 61 tackles and 6.5 tackles for a loss. However, Wicks is a known commodity, but Quinton Andrews and Ridwan Malik, potential free and bandit safety starting candidates, are not. The good news is that Andrews has the coaching staff licking their chops about what he can bring to the defense. With the new pieces in place, the secondary will be on the spot throughout the season, especially when they visit Papa John’s late in the year – and it won’t be for pizza.





So, basically, what H4S did was chop the one little piece that painted WVU in a less than stellar light, and posted that and that alone. Not that that surprises me. :rolleyes: Several writers for College Football News wrote about WVU. Everything but what he posted looks pretty damn good. :)

[The Evil Genius]

Don't shoot the messenger.

http://www.collegefootballnews.com/big_east/2006_Previews/WestVirginia_preview.htm

This my be a top ten-caliber team, but it's not good enough to get through the ACC, SEC, Big Ten, Pac 10, or Big 12 South without two losses. While other national title contenders are playing other big boys, West Virginia plays three teams that went to bowls last year, and two of them are South Florida and Rutgers. You'll have to forgive fans of Florida, Texas, Ohio State, LSU, USC, and Notre Dame if they're going to scream and yell in the debate about who deserves what at the end of the year.

That may or may not be true. But if the ACC (or any conference) continues to send an 8-4 team to the BCS again - I suspect no one will notice a 12-0 team from the Big East going. :D

And of course, should that 12-0 team from the BE win the BCS game - then what would the argument be then?

Winning shuts everyone up, I suspect. I mean, no one knocked that inferior BE BCS team after they beat the SEC Champ, 20 minutes or so from that SEC's champ campus in the Sugar.

[SkinsHokieFan]

I don't think its saying anything bad about WVU

I give WVU credit for 1) actually winning the damn games, and 2) taking advantage of the situation they are in

The fact is that WVU has one of the easiest paths to an MNC EVER, and that fans of traditional power conferences (SEC, BIG 10, BIG 12) won't be impressed at all by a team whose hardest game will be Louisville (or Louis ville as the ref said in the Gator Bowl)

Considering the ACC has only once sent an 8-4 team, which beat a top 10 team to get to the BCS bowl, I don't think people are really talking about the ACC being sad.

When you have Miami, FSU and VT, and a championship game your conference rep will be fine

[hokie4redskins]

Did you actually read the article, Blitz?

[The Evil Genius]

I don't think its saying anything bad about WVU

I give WVU credit for 1) actually winning the damn games, and 2) taking advantage of the situation they are in

The fact is that WVU has one of the easiest paths to an MNC EVER, and that fans of traditional power conferences (SEC, BIG 10, BIG 12) won't be impressed at all by a team whose hardest game will be Louisville (or Louis ville as the ref said in the Gator Bowl)



Well, it appears that way - however who knows if there is another less thought of team (like WVU was last year) who might pop up to be a tiger in the BE.

That said, if WVU runs the table in the regular season, they would have done so being a top 5 (or at least 10) team the whole year. They also will have beaten a likely top 10 team in Louisville (in Louisville). They also will have won their last 20 games (including a win over the SEC champ in 2005).

I doubt too many people will be bitching, unless there is an ACC/SEC/whatever winner who only has 1 loss and it was to a team ranked higher than WVU. Which is doubtful, since WVU would likely be at least #2 if it played in the BCS championship. ;)

[PleaseBlitz]

Did you actually read the article, Blitz?


Yeah, and im going to post just about the whole thing, not just the little blurb you posted.

Several writers commented on WVU, the one you quoted was the only one to say anything but glowing praise for the Mountaineers.

[The Evil Genius]

Now, all WVU has to do is win their 12 regular season games. ;)

[PleaseBlitz]

I doubt too many people will be bitching, unless there is an ACC/SEC/whatever winner who only has 1 loss and it was to a team ranked higher than WVU. Which is doubtful, since WVU would likely be at least #2 if it played in the BCS championship. ;)


Oh, there will be bitching. Trust me.

[hokie4redskins]

Don't see what the problem is. One writer posts a fair unbiased perspective without shlobbin' on WVU's knob and you throw a fit.

[PleaseBlitz]

I cut out all the :pooh: about backups. Feel free to read the whole thing.


What you need to know ... Outside of an injury to quarterback Pat White, there's no reason the offense should produce any fewer than the 389 yards and 32 points per game it came up with last season. The attack got better as the year went on, and now it should hum on all cylinders with White a better passer and an experienced receiving corps to work with, one of the nation's best groups of running backs, and a line that'll be more than fine even with the loss of both starting tackles. Getting more out of the passing game will be the top priority after finishing 117th in the nation last year. This offense isn't going to turn it over and should be ultra-efficient.

Quarterbacks
This would've been a fantastic situation if Adam Bednarik didn't have problems with an injured shoulder. Now the starter at the beginning of last year is likely out for the year meaning Pat White has to be durable despite all the shots he takes as a runner. His passing appears to have gotten better, but he's most dangerous when he's on the move. Redshirt freshmen Jarrett Brown and Nate Sowers will battle for the number two job. Brown has more upside, but Sowers might be more ready to step in right away.
The key to the unit: Pat White has to stay healthy and push some passes downfield more. He's efficient, but he has to hit on more big plays.
Quarterback Rating: 8

Projected Starter
- Pat White, Soph. - 65-114, 57%, 828 yds, 8 TD, 131 carries, 952 yds, 7.3 ypc, 7 TD
White if one of the premier running quarterbacks in college football, and now that he knows what he's doing, he should be a stronger passer. He hasn't had to throw much with all the success of the ground game, and he had a great Sugar Bowl performance completing 11 of 14 passes, but he was erratic and didn't make enough secondaries pay for cheating up against the run. No longer a green freshman, he'll be more of a leader and will take more chances with his throws with more confidence in what he's doing. Of course, he'll make his biggest plays on the move. He tore off four 100-yard games highlighted by a 220-yard rushing day against Pitt.


Running Backs
The emergence of Steve Slaton out of nowhere made a good running back situation special. Jason Colson is a solid number two back who could be an All-Big East runner if he turned into the number one man. Owen Schmitt grew into one of the nation's best fullback, and there are speedy options waiting in the wings. Quarterback Pat White will be a part of the rushing total, but this group of runners could combine for 2,500 yards on their own.
The key to the unit: There could stand to be a bit more from the running backs in the passing game. They can all catch, and now they need to get the ball in their hands when on the move.
Running Back Rating: 10

Projected Starters
- Steve Slaton, Soph. - 205 carries, 1,128 yds, 5.5 ypc, 17 TD, 12 catches, 95 yds, 7.9 ypc, 2 TD
Easily the shocker of the 2005 season, the new West Virginia rushing star was supposed to be top recruit Jason Gwaltney. That changed in a hurry as Slaton took over in the third game of the year and was unstoppable the rest of the way averaging 136 yards per game after seeing time against Virginia Tech. He got on the national map with a five touchdown game in the win over Louisville, but it was his 204-yard, three touchdown Sugar Bowl against Georgia that got everyone talking. He runs far harder than his 5-10, 190-pound size, and there are few better home run hitters.

- Fullback Owen Schmitt, Jr. - 48 carries, 380 yds, 7.9 ypc, 2 TD, 8 carries, 76 yds, 9.5 ypc
One of the nation's best all-around fullbacks, the 6-3, 250-pound junior is a punishing blocker and a strong runner with a nice burst once he sees the hole. How many big fullbacks can averaged 7.9 yards per carry and deliver key block after key block? There aren't many who work harder than the former walk-on.

Receivers
There's talent here to get the passing game going if needed. The Mountaineer receivers have more roles to play than most teams' targets with their blocking skills needed as much as their hands. Darius Reynaud and Brandon Myles form a good enough 1-2 punch to keep defenses from teeing off on the running game, while complementary targets like Dorrell Jallon and Jeremy Bruce should produce some big plays when they get a chance.
The key to the unit: Make more big plays when they get a chance. The West Virginia receivers see too much single coverage to only average 11.5 yards per catch.
Receiver Rating: 6.5

Projected Starters
- Darius Reynaud, Jr. - 30 catches, 297 yds, 9.9 ypc, 5 TD, 9 carries, 86 yds, 1 TD
The team's second leading receiver last season became steadier as the season went on and was also used as a runner. He scored three touchdowns in his final four games, but he has yet to show off his amazing speed. With his home-run hitting potential, the passing game has to use hum deep.

- Brandon Myles, Sr. - 34 catches, 536 yds, 15.8 ypc, 3 TD
The 6-3, 190-pound senior led the team in receiving last season with steady production throughout the season. He has the route running ability and speed to do even more if the Mountaineers start throwing it more. A nice downfield blocker, he's a smart overall receiver who knows his role.

- Dorrell Jalloh, Soph. - 3 catches, 66 yds, 22 ypc, 1 TD
Considered one of the team's rising offensive stars, Jalloh is a fantastic blocker with great hands. He didn't get used much last year with his one touchdown catch coming on a 46-yard play against Virginia Tech, but he'll play a much bigger role this season after a fantastic spring.

- Jeremy Bruce, Soph. - 3 catches, 26 yds, 8.7 ypc
Used as the team's slot receiver, the small, quick Bruce will see also see a few carries. He's one of the team's faster players and should be deadly when he gets the ball in his hands on the move.

- Tight end Michael Villagrana, Jr. - 1 catch, 2 yds, 1 TD
The former defensive lineman is still learning his way at tight end. He's a tough blocker who caught one pass last season for a touchdown. With his all-around skills, he should grow into the new starting role as the season goes on.

Offensive Linemen
There might not be a more athletic line on a top 25 team in America. These guys aren't going to blow anyone off the ball, but they're amazing for the Mountaineer running game because of their quickness, pulling ability, and smarts; they're technicians. Center Dan Mozes is one of the nation's best linemen and should be the favorite for the Rimington Award. The interior will be a rock with Mozes and guards Ryan Stancheck and Jeremy Sheffey, but the tackles will be a bit of a concern early on needing to replace Garin Justice and Travis Garrett.
The key to the unit: New starting tackles Damien Crissey and Jake Figner have to be as good as last year's all-stars.
Offensive Line Rating: 9


Projected Starters
- OT Damien Crissey, Sr.
Crissey has been around for a while, but he hasn't been able to see too much time outside of the scout team because of all the veteran tackles ahead of him over the last few years. The 6-4, 280-pound senior should be great at left tackle with the speed to spring big plays down field.
- OG Ryan Stanchek, Soph.
The 280-pound Stanchek turned into one of the team's top blockers last season earning freshman All-America honors after stepping into the starting lineup in the fourth game against Virginia Tech. He showed a nice punch in the running game, and now should be even better after hitting the weights hard.
- C Dan Mozes, Sr.
One of the nation's best centers, the 290-pound veteran is back in the middle for his fourth straight season. He's the perfect leader for the line with the experience of seeing a bit of time at guard along with his duties at center. He has been nicked up from time to time with a shoulder problem a few years ago and an ankle issue for a game last season, but he's hardly injury prone. His motor is always running.
- OG Jeremy Sheffey, Sr.
The 290-pound guard is one of the team's best linemen on the move. The long-time starter knows exactly what he's doing at right guard improving steadily year after year since moving over from the defensive line early on. It'll be a shock if he's not a first team All-Big East star.
- OT Jake Figner, Soph.
An improving all-around blocker, the 6-5, 290-pound sophomore should be a fixture on the right side for the next three years. He's going to take a little time before he's dominant, but he's way too quick and is too athletic not to grow into a perfect fit.

[The Evil Genius]

Oh, there will be bitching. Trust me.

:laugh:

Oh, and I disagree with the assessment that a team has to blow out all of its opponents if they want to make it to the BCS championship game. Especially since, that team is coming from a major 6 conference, albeit the weakest, on paper.

Any team that goes 12-0 (or 11-0 or 13-0) from one of the big 6 should automatically be playing for the BCS championship.

I think the writers don't grasp how difficult it is to go undefeated in NCAA football, even when you are playing the WV school for the dumb and blind in the 1st week (thanks to the governor) or all the weeks. :D

[PleaseBlitz]

Don't see what the problem is. One writer posts a fair unbiased perspective without shlobbin' on WVU's knob and you throw a fit.


Its just annoying when the whole series of articles has nothing but good things to say and YOU post the one little blurb that makes it look negative. Now that ive read all of the 6 articles, im liking what i see. :)



They also have 2 Mountaineers in their top 10 Heisman candidates. Though you can engrave Brady Quinns name on that right now. :(

[Diggs]

I read that entire piece (well, at least most of it) this morning. It seems pretty fair but Holy Christ, did this writer go to a journalism school? CFBnews.com needs to hire an editor and put his azz to work.

I'm glad he at least did his research and figured out a few things as far as injuries and transfers are concerned. As far as the "WVU wouldn't get through another conference without 2 losses...".. You don't know that. You can only speculate. Maybe they would go undefeated in the SEC with their 06' squad. Maybe not. The reality of the matter is they have a VERY good team and a VERY favorable schedule for a possible run to a championship. Others need to stop crying and deal with it. :D

[The Evil Genius]

I'm glad he at least did his research and figured out a few things as far as injuries and transfers are concerned. As far as the "WVU wouldn't get through another conference without 2 losses...".. You don't know that. You can only speculate. Maybe they would go undefeated in the SEC with their 06' squad. Maybe not. The reality of the matter is they have a VERY good team and a VERY favorable schedule for a possible run to a championship. Others need to stop crying and deal with it. :D

The reality is, they don't need to go undefeated in the ACC or SEC. They need to go undefeated in the BE AND win their OOC games. Even if part 2 doesn't happen, part 1 ensures a BCS bowl. I don't know about anyone else, but I like the path of lesser resistance.

[EersSkins05]

I read that entire piece (well, at least most of it) this morning. It seems pretty fair but Holy Christ, did this writer go to a journalism school? CFBnews.com needs to hire an editor and put his azz to work.

I'm glad he at least did his research and figured out a few things as far as injuries and transfers are concerned. As far as the "WVU wouldn't get through another conference without 2 losses...".. You don't know that. You can only speculate. Maybe they would go undefeated in the SEC with their 06' squad. Maybe not. The reality of the matter is they have a VERY good team and a VERY favorable schedule for a possible run to a championship. Others need to stop crying and deal with it. :D

I agree with everything you wrote here.

The typos and grammar problems got on my nerves, as well as the fact that he has our probable #2 receiver (Brandon Barrett) listed as our 3rd backup.

But I think it would be fair to say that tempered enthusiasm is the mindset of most WVU fans this offseason, and it seems like his article reflects that.

[The Evil Genius]

Actually, I would be surpised if Barrett makes the field this year. There are rumors he will be academically ineligible, he had an "I" for a needed course in the spring and had to take 2 courses (and pass) this summer to be eligible.

I am not holding my breath.


BTW - the title of this thread reads "Pretty Fair assessment on WVU". What was the fair assessment, the entire article or only the blurb that was posted?

[EersSkins05]

Actually, I would be surpised if Barrett makes the field this year. There are rumors he will be academically ineligible, he had an "I" for a needed course in the spring and had to take 2 courses (and pass) this summer to be eligible.


I've also heard that, but heard recently that he was good to go, so I don't know.

Why is it so hard for kids to make grades to play? I know everything doesn't come as easily to some as it does others, but my God, it's not like these kids are in advanced calculus.

[The Evil Genius]

I have often wondered that myself.

Although, I do acknowledge the amount of time and how tired they must be to train/attend practice. That said, how is this any different than Joe college kid who has to work 30 hours a week while attending college?

Anyways...rant over.

[hokie4redskins]

I thought the entire article was fair and unbiased. I only put that blurb as a not-so-subtle pot shot. :D

Though, as much as you may dislike it, that blurb was dead on. WVU in the MNC might actually kill the BCS once and for all.

[The Evil Genius]

Not if they win the game or show that they belong by losing a close game.

Now, if they lose 46-29, then maybe. ;)

But of course, the MNC has survived those games before.

[PleaseBlitz]

I thought the entire article was fair and unbiased. I only put that blurb as a not-so-subtle pot shot. :D

Though, as much as you may dislike it, that blurb was dead on. WVU in the MNC might actually kill the BCS once and for all.


That blurb was speculation in its purest form. WVU already won one BCS game, if they make the National Cship, it wont shock anyone, except maybe you. ;)

[hokie4redskins]

Not if they win the game or show that they belong by losing a close game.

Now, if they lose 46-29, then maybe. ;)

But of course, the MNC has survived those games before.


Touche.

Nice one, but hey, it was 29-28 at the start of the 4th. We were just spent and FSU was three deep at every position. I was drowning my sorrows on Bourbon St. shortly thereafter.

If WVU makes it to the MNC and loses by more than 10 points, all holy hell will be unleashed on the BCS, which might not necessarily be a bad thing.

[hokie4redskins]

That blurb was speculation in its purest form. WVU already won one BCS game, if they make the National Cship, it wont shock anyone, except maybe you. ;)

I think some people would bet millions of dollars that I wouldn't be the only one shocked. Hey, if WVU wins the MNC, I'll give you your due props. Wait, no I won't.

:D

[The Evil Genius]

With 2 sophomores at 2 key positions, if WVU won the MNC - what would they do for an encore? :silly:

But I am a realist, I expect WVU to lose a game in the last 30 seconds that they were leading by 2 td's or more sometime this year. Be it the MNC, or against Louisville. It's what WVU fans are used to (and halfway expecting).

[hokie4redskins]

That's funny you mention that because I was pretty much thinking the same thing. If you want my honest UNBIASED opinion (if at all possible), I don't think WVU realizes the burden of expectations. As a Hokie, I'm all too familiar with it. Preseason polls and media "pundits" riding your jock doesn't mean squat in the end. The publicity is nice, but you really have nowhere to go but down.

Expectations become a SERIOUS distraction and a psychological burden. WVU should stroll through their schedule pretty easily, but the SECOND a team steps up and socks them in the mouth, every player on that sideline is going to be thinking, "Oh ****, we CAN"T lose, what about all those expectations? What about going undefeated? What about the MNC?" And that's usually when the rug gets pulled out from underneath you.

:2cents:

[The Evil Genius]

So, if they did go 12-0 - do you think WVU deserves to play in the MNC? Based on the expectations going into the year?

[hokie4redskins]

If there are three undefeated teams, absolutely not. Even a 11-1 team might have an argument, but VT went through the same crap in 1999. Some felt a one loss Nebraska team deserved it over us. Of course, the Big East was MUCH better back then. :laugh:

Let's just wait to see if you go undefeated first.

[The Evil Genius]

If there are three undefeated teams, absolutely not. Even a 11-1 team might have an argument, but VT went through the same crap in 1999. Some felt a one loss Nebraska team deserved it over us. Of course, the Big East was MUCH better back then. :laugh:

Let's just wait to see if you go undefeated first.

Agreed. I will argue for MNC rights if and when WVU goes 12-0.

[Diggs]

Agreed. I will argue for MNC rights if and when WVU goes 12-0.

I know I'm biased and I can see how outsiders would feel.. but if 3 teams were undefeated, I would still say WVU is deserving and I'll explain why:

1) WVU will have won 19 games in a row, one of which included the BCS bowl win against UGA.

2) WVU will be ranked high enough preseason to stay "in the hunt" for undefeated MNC contending teams.

3) Let's say WVU is ranked 3rd (or 4th). If 3 teams are undefeated at the end of the season, are we assuming the 3 are the top 3 teams from the beginning? Well, Texas and Ohio State play each other so something has to give there. Once those teams lose, they will drop, WVU won't if they keep winning.

4) If a team above or below WVU loses again, they would most likely be ranked below WVU.. do you still think they deserve to leapfrog WVU?

If a team goes undefeated and is pre-season ranked below WVU, it could be possible that they leapfrog WVU, but WVU may have to show vulnerability (barely beat their opponents).

There are a bunch of scenarios, but my 4 reasons explain why I think WVU going undefeated is a damn good argument to play in the MNC game.

Of course, this won't mean a damn thing if WVU doesn't go undefeated. WVU traditionally plays best as a "hunter" not the "hunted," however this is a new era in WVU football.

I'm just happy to finally be in this situation.

[EersSkins05]

You show me a 12-0 WVU team NOT in the BCS Championship and I"ll show you fury you've never seen from fans of collegiate athletics. THAT, in and of itself, might be enough to get rid of the BCS.

[hokie4redskins]

If you're one of two undefeated, maybe. But if there are three, nobody is going to care what 100K fans in the Blue Ridge think when they've played South Florida, Syracuse, Rutgers, and UCONN. There's not a chance in hell WVU would earn it over an Auburn team from two years ago who got left out.

If WVU is involved in some controversy at the end of this year, it's only going to hurt the Big East in the long run, maybe even short run, as the outrage from 95% of the country over a potentially undeserving conference might trump the few fans hollering in Morgantown.

If the BCS proves its ineptness one more time and the college football landscape is forced to change, guess which conference will get the short end of the stick.

[The Evil Genius]

If you're one of two undefeated, maybe. But if there are three, nobody is going to care what 100K fans in the Blue Ridge think when they've played South Florida, Syracuse, Rutgers, and UCONN. There's not a chance in hell WVU would earn it over an Auburn team from two years ago who got left out.

If WVU is involved in some controversy at the end of this year, it's only going to hurt the Big East in the long run, maybe even short run, as the outrage from 95% of the country over a potentially undeserving conference might trump the few fans hollering in Morgantown.

If the BCS proves its ineptness one more time and the college football landscape is forced to change, guess which conference will get the short end of the stick.

I thought last year's BCS game got rid of the "undeserving conference" label that ACC snobs like to throw around.

Guess it will take another year of a win by the BE in the BCS over the top conference (and it doesn't start with an "A") to prove some people otherwise.

[hokie4redskins]

I think all that game did was tell the nation not to come unprepared and sleep on WVU. I'm not questioning WVU is a good team. I'm simply stating that their path to achieve BCS greatness is pathetic, at best. And if WVU strolls through that easy path again and is a contender for the MNC, Hokie fans aren't going to be the only ones disrespecting your team and conference.

If you do indeed go undefeated this year, you will not be able to prove to ANYBODY in college football that you deserve a shot at the MNC based soley on WVU's schedule. That's a fact. WVU may very well have BCS officials ****ting their pants at the potential controversy

[The Evil Genius]

When Louisville beats Miami and loses its only game to a team that ends up 12-0 and both teams finish in the top 10, the BE will be respected.

When, not if. :D

[hokie4redskins]

That's a lot to ask, dude. And if it doesn't happen, what say you then?

"Oh man, maybe hokie4 has been right this whole time. DAMN!"

:cool:

[PleaseBlitz]

If you're one of two undefeated, maybe. But if there are three, nobody is going to care what 100K fans in the Blue Ridge think when they've played South Florida, Syracuse, Rutgers, and UCONN. There's not a chance in hell WVU would earn it over an Auburn team from two years ago who got left out.



I thought this was already explained to you. If there are 3 undefeated teams, 2 of them will have to be named OSU, Texas, ND, or be from the SEC for WVU not to get the nod. See, this is the benefit from starting the season ranked so high. Its hard to justify them dropping without an L or at least a close win over a bad team. If WVU handles biz, they have a great shot.

Even if a team like FSU goes undefeated, they arent going to leapfrog WVU if they start the season ranked #15 and WVU starts ranked top 5.


Personally, this season doesnt need to end in the National Championship game for me to consider this a wildly successful season. I will be perfectly happy with a repeat of last year.

[Inxsive]

You show me a 12-0 WVU team NOT in the BCS Championship and I"ll show you fury you've never seen from fans of collegiate athletics. THAT, in and of itself, might be enough to get rid of the BCS.

Hey now, put the matches down!;) There is a simple fact that this article reiterated, WVU is not sitting at the big boys table. They will lose any tie breaker with any real football school. Lets say towords the end of the season you and 3 other teams are ranked and have the same record. If those two teams have played 3 or 4 top 40 team and you have only played one, you don't think they deserve to be ranked higher? If WVU was in their position I'm sure you'd be screaming. If SOS and quality wins shouldn't be the top tie breakers, then please tell me what you think should be.

[hokie4redskins]

Personally, this season doesnt need to end in the National Championship game for me to consider this a wildly successful season. I will be perfectly happy with a repeat of last year.

That's not possible this year. It's either MNC or bust. You're fortunate enough to avoid VT this year which means if you lose, you're losing to Louisville which will give them the Big East BCS bid. There's no way the BE is getting two BCS bids. Though, it's possible you go undefeated and get left out and placed in another BCS game. But something tells me you won't be "perfectly happy" with that. This forum will blow up with Eer fans screaming "WE WUZ ROBBED!"

[The Evil Genius]

That's not possible this year. It's either MNC or bust. You're fortunate enough to avoid VT this year which means if you lose, you're losing to Louisville which will give them the Big East BCS bid. There's no way the BE is getting two BCS bids. Though, it's possible you go undefeated and get left out and placed in another BCS game. But something tells me you won't be "perfectly happy" with that. This forum will blow up with Eer fans screaming "WE WUZ ROBBED!"

A top 10 Louisville team with a win over Miami and close loss to WVU would definitely draw some bowl BCS bowl interest. Especially with 2 extra BCS bowl slots starting this year.

[PleaseBlitz]

Hey now, put the matches down!;) There is a simple fact that this article reiterated, WVU is not sitting at the big boys table. They will lose any tie breaker with any real football school. Lets say towords the end of the season you and 3 other teams are ranked and have the same record. If those two teams have played 3 or 4 top 40 team and you have only played one, you don't think they deserve to be ranked higher? If WVU was in their position I'm sure you'd be screaming. If SOS and quality wins shouldn't be the top tie breakers, then please tell me what you think should be.

:doh:

Please read the entire piece on WVU (all 6 articles) and then report back.

Also, the 2nd half of your post is completely wrong too. Please see my previous post and the one Diggs posted.

[PleaseBlitz]

That's not possible this year. It's either MNC or bust. You're fortunate enough to avoid VT this year which means if you lose, you're losing to Louisville which will give them the Big East BCS bid. There's no way the BE is getting two BCS bids. Though, it's possible you go undefeated and get left out and placed in another BCS game. But something tells me you won't be "perfectly happy" with that. This forum will blow up with Eer fans screaming "WE WUZ ROBBED!"

Nah. You are way off base. If we beat Louisville, we get a free loss and still get a BCS game. This should be fairly obvious. Please refer to FSU last year.

If we go undefeated along along with say OSU and Oklahoma and we get another BCS bowl and not the National Cship, ill be fine with that too. Pretty much any win in a BCS game will be a-ok with me. Dont tell me how im going to be. Please. It makes you look even dumber. You really need to realize that the opinions clanging around inside YOUR head arent always (ever) the way of the world. :)

[SkinsHokieFan]

Why is there this assumption that Louisville is going to beat Miami :whoknows:

Miami still returns a superhuman D. If the O they have shows any sign of life, people need to watch out for the Canes

I have no doubt that Miami will beat Loserville

[The Evil Genius]

Why is there this assumption that Louisville is going to beat Miami :whoknows:

Miami still returns a superhuman D. If the O they have shows any sign of life, people need to watch out for the Canes

I have no doubt that Miami will beat Loserville

Because I don't think they will lose 2 games at Papa Johns stadium and I already having them losing to WVU. ;)

Don't sleep on Louisville, their offense looks fantastic. We'll see if they can handle losing Elvis on D.

[SkinsHokieFan]

Because I don't think they will lose 2 games at Papa Johns stadium and I already having them losing to WVU. ;)

Don't sleep on Louisville, their offense looks fantastic. We'll see if they can handle losing Elvis on D.


I suppose it looks fantastic until you actually hit them

I wasn't that impressed at the end of the Gator Bowl. A few good hits on their QB and he was through

I see Miami taking care of business and eating some good pizza also

[The Evil Genius]

I suppose it looks fantastic until you actually hit them

I wasn't that impressed at the end of the Gator Bowl. A few good hits on their QB and he was through

I see Miami taking care of business and eating some good pizza also

You weren't impressed with Louisville's QB in the Gator Bowl because he wasn't the starter (and heisman trophy candidate).

Louisville' stud QB (Brohm) got hurt in November. It was the backup QB who lit up VPI in the first half. :laugh:

[EersSkins05]

I wasn't that impressed at the end of the Gator Bowl. A few good hits on their QB and he was through


That may have been true. But again, you Hokie fans have a hard time remembering that Hunter Cantwell, a freshman walk-on making his second start was not Brian Brohm, a pre-season Heisman candidate.

And Cantwell's toughness shouldn't be questioned- he played the second half with a badly broken nose that was gushing blood.

EDIT- Dammit, TEG beat me to it.

[SkinsHokieFan]

You weren't impressed with Louisville's QB in the Gator Bowl because he wasn't the starter (and heisman trophy candidate).

Louisville' stud QB (Brohm) got hurt in November. It was the backup QB who lit up VPI in the first half. :laugh:

That may have been true. But again, you Hokie fans have a hard time remembering that Hunter Cantwell, a freshman walk-on making his second start was not Brian Brohm, a pre-season Heisman candidate.

And Cantwell's toughness shouldn't be questioned- he played the second half with a badly broken nose that was gushing blood.

EDIT- Dammit, TEG beat me to it.

Pardon my ignorance of Louisville

I rarely or did pay attention to any mid major program

[Diggs]

Pardon my ignorance of Louisville

I rarely or did pay attention to any mid major program

I know you're joking but still...people sleep on Louisville.
I know Louisville might not have the tradition as the criminals at Miami, but Louisville is very close to "big time" college football. They have not won a BCS game yet, or other big bowl games, but they have recently elevated their game from C-USA to BIG EAST. Louisville has a talented team as almost anybody in the country. Yes, they have 2 heisman candidates at 2 key positions. They have a coach (who might be an ass) who is coveted by the NFL and is well respected. This isn't the Louisville of 2000. They can beat anybody, but aren't good enough not to lose to anybody just yet (see USF last year).

All this being said, yes, they are not as good as the Miami football program. But, their 2006 team is better than the Miami 2006 team and I think it will be proven when the "U" travels to Pizza stadium. Miami is NOT the same team they have been 2+ years ago. Coker has let that team go to :pooh:. It was such an embarrassment for the ACC during their bowl game last year. :2cents:

[SkinsHokieFan]

I know you're joking but still...people sleep on Louisville.
I know Louisville might not have the tradition as the criminals at Miami, but Louisville is very close to "big time" college football. They have not won a BCS game yet, or other big bowl games, but they have recently elevated their game from C-USA to BIG EAST. Louisville has a talented team as almost anybody in the country. Yes, they have 2 heisman candidates at 2 key positions. They have a coach (who might be an ass) who is coveted by the NFL and is well respected. This isn't the Louisville of 2000. They can beat anybody, but aren't good enough not to lose to anybody just yet (see USF last year).

All this being said, yes, they are not as good as the Miami football program. But, their 2006 team is better than the Miami 2006 team and I think it will be proven when the "U" travels to Pizza stadium. Miami is NOT the same team they have been 2+ years ago. Coker has let that team go to :pooh:. It was such an embarrassment for the ACC during their bowl game last year. :2cents:

Name one big win Louisville has in the past 4 years

WVU can at least point to the Sugar Bowl. Louisville? :whoknows:

What evidence do you have Louisville 2006 is better then Miami 2006? Honestly man, you guys pull some good stuff out at times

[Diggs]

Name one big win Louisville has in the past 4 years

WVU can at least point to the Sugar Bowl. Louisville? :whoknows:

What evidence do you have Louisville 2006 is better then Miami 2006? Honestly man, you guys pull some good stuff out at times

Nah man, I was sayin they are on the brink of greatness. Look, you have to be delusional not to see that Petrino has built a very solid program that isn't going to lose many games year in year out. I did say they don't have that "program changing win" yet, but they aren't far off. I know they beat FSU a few years ago, but that wasn't that big of a win. We'll see what happens when Miami lines up against them, but I do believe Louisville will come out on top. I'll eat crow if it's otherwise, but I want you guys to do the same on the flipside.

[Inxsive]

:doh:

Please read the entire piece on WVU (all 6 articles) and then report back.

Also, the 2nd half of your post is completely wrong too. Please see my previous post and the one Diggs posted.

At least you said please. I did read them all. Like you, I don't agree with everything said in them. That doesn't mean I can't agree with a point made in it. Lets make it easy so you can't backtrack during the season. What are your top two tiebreakers to rank teams that have the same record?

[PleaseBlitz]

Aside from forgetting that VT barely beat Louisville last year when Lville was missing their best offensive player.

Why is there this assumption that Louisville is going to beat Miami :whoknows:

Miami still returns a superhuman D. If the O they have shows any sign of life, people need to watch out for the Canes

I have no doubt that Miami will beat Loserville



I see Miami taking care of business and eating some good pizza also

Pardon my ignorance of Louisville

I rarely or did pay attention to any mid major program

Name one big win Louisville has in the past 4 years

WVU can at least point to the Sugar Bowl. Louisville? :whoknows:

What evidence do you have Louisville 2006 is better then Miami 2006? Honestly man, you guys pull some good stuff out at times


Every single one of these publications says Louisville is a better team than Miami or VT.

http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/8701/preseason-top-25

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/stewart_mandel/04/24/spring.top.25/1.html

http://www.statfox.com/statfoxnews/news~articleid~1412~h~2006-College-Football-Preview-and-Preseason-Top-25-Rankings.htm

http://proxy.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=2299436

Also, im not assumming that Lville will beat Miami, but when people scoff at the BE placing two teams in BCS bowls, its not that far fetched if Lville does beat Miami. In fact, Louisville will most likely be the favorite in that game.

[DarthSidious]

Aside from forgetting that VT barely beat Louisville last year when Lville was missing their best offensive player.










Every single one of these publications says Louisville is a better team than Miami or VT.

http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/8701/preseason-top-25

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/stewart_mandel/04/24/spring.top.25/1.html

http://www.statfox.com/statfoxnews/news~articleid~1412~h~2006-College-Football-Preview-and-Preseason-Top-25-Rankings.htm (http://www.statfox.com/statfoxnews/news%7Earticleid%7E1412%7Eh%7E2006-College-Football-Preview-and-Preseason-Top-25-Rankings.htm)

http://proxy.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=2299436

Also, im not assumming that Lville will beat Miami, but when people scoff at the BE placing two teams in BCS bowls, its not that far fetched if Lville does beat Miami. In fact, Louisville will most likely be the favorite in that game.

Barely beat Louisville?!:doh: Funny coming from you considering WVU only won by 2 points I believe :laugh: while VT beat Louisville by more than 2 points. Cite all the preseason articles you want but preseason rankings or predictions don't mean :pooh:. If it did, then there would be no point in watching sports at all.

[PleaseBlitz]

Barely beat Louisville?!:doh: Funny coming from you considering WVU only won by 2 points I believe :laugh: while VT beat Louisville by more than 2 points. Cite all the preseason articles you want but preseason rankings or predictions don't mean :pooh:. If it did, then there would be no point in watching sports at all.


Did you watch that game? That was an extremely close game, Louisville was winning with 6 minutes to go. Also, comparing any aspect of the Gator Bowl to the Sugar Bowl is assinine. We beat the SEC Champs. You beat the BE runner up. :thumbsup:

And I agree, the preseason rankings of these publications dont mean :pooh: until the season starts but they definitely put things into perspective when you ACC fans say that Lville has NO SHOT at beating Miami.

[DarthSidious]

Did you watch that game? That was an extremely close game, Louisville was winning with 6 minutes to go. Also, comparing any aspect of the Gator Bowl to the Sugar Bowl is assinine. We beat the SEC Champs. You beat the BE runner up. :thumbsup:

And I agree, the preseason rankings of these publications dont mean :pooh: until the season starts but they definitely put things into perspective when you ACC fans say that Lville has NO SHOT at beating Miami.

I don't think I was comparing the Gator Bowl to the Sugar Bowl at all in my previous post. I was comparing the wins against Louisville by both teams and noting that we beat Louisville by more than you guys did, yet you pull that "VT barely beat Louisville" argument out when the truth of the matter is, WVU won by a smaller margin than VT did! :laugh: And on a final note, yes we did beat the BE runner up, but don't forget, we also beat the BE champs 34-17 in their own backyard no less ;)

[SkinsHokieFan]

Did you watch that game? That was an extremely close game, Louisville was winning with 6 minutes to go. Also, comparing any aspect of the Gator Bowl to the Sugar Bowl is assinine. We beat the SEC Champs. You beat the BE runner up. :thumbsup:

And I agree, the preseason rankings of these publications dont mean :pooh: until the season starts but they definitely put things into perspective when you ACC fans say that Lville has NO SHOT at beating Miami.


You crack me up sometimes fella

At home, it took you guys several OT's to beat Loserville. Now granted it was one hell of a comeback, and a great show by you boys, so kudos

We woke up in the 4th quarter and pounded them into mincemeat and got an 11 point victory

Don't give me that BS of barely beating Loserville, makes you look absolutley riddiculous as usual

[hokie4redskins]

Nah man, I was sayin they are on the brink of greatness. Look, you have to be delusional not to see that Petrino has built a very solid program that isn't going to lose many games year in year out.

You're not going to lose many games in the Big East unless your name is Syracuse, Pitt, or Cincinnatti. Seriously, even Rutgers is a friggin' contender now. :laugh:


I don't think I was comparing the Gator Bowl to the Sugar Bowl at all in my previous post. I was comparing the wins against Louisville by both teams and noting that we beat Louisville by more than you guys did, yet you pull that "VT barely beat Louisville" argument out when the truth of the matter is, WVU won by a smaller margin than VT did! And on a final note, yes we did beat the BE runner up, but don't forget, we also beat the BE champs 34-17 in their own backyard no less.

Nailed it. VT did to Louisville what it always does to inferior opponents who put up a decent fight. We unleash all bloody hell on you in the 4th quarter. Barely beat them my ass. And wasn't WVU at home against Louisville?

:laugh:

[The Evil Genius]

The world is full of had's...but their is no doubt that had Louisville had their NFL ready QB in the Gator Bowl, the outcome would likely have been much different.

Of course, Hokie fans had no idea who Brohm is/was. Despite the fact that Brohm was one the highest sought after QB's in 2003 and was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated as a Junior in High School.

:rolleyes:

Also, more to the point on Louisville, they did finish #6 & #7 in the polls in 2004. So both the coaches and the media thought they were worthy. I guess its only the Tech grads (and those on the bandwagon of Tech) who don't.

Oh, and it was pointed out earlier, that was a Freshman walk-on for Louisville in the Gator Bowl who was starting his second collegiate game. Of course the vaunted VPI wreaked holy hell on him in the 4th quarter.

My question is, why did it take so long?

[SkinsHokieFan]

The world is full of had's...but their is no doubt that had

Oh, and it was pointed out earlier, that was a Freshman walk-on for Louisville in the Gator Bowl who was starting his second collegiate game. Of course the vaunted VPI wreaked holy hell on him in the 4th quarter.

My question is, why did it take so long?


What took WVU so long in Morgantown last year?

And will it happen at the pizza joint this year?

[hokie4redskins]

My question is, why did it take so long?

Maybe we slept on them like Georgia did to you?

:whoknows:

[The Evil Genius]

What took WVU so long in Morgantown last year?

And will it happen at the pizza joint this year?


To be honest, WVU played against Brohm - Tech didn't. He killed WVU with his arm and his accuracy. Remember, WVU was the underdog at that game, even at home.

And to be fair, WVU was a mostly freshman/sophomore laden team that hadn't found its stride. I tend to think it was a direct result of that win that springboarded WVU to peel off another 5 wins (including the BCS bowl game).

As for this year, Louisville concerns me the most - although the UConn game @ UConn smells of a trap game (that and it's a Friday game coming off of a Saturday game, so a short week). Luckily, WVU will have 13 days after UConn to prepare for Louisville.

[PleaseBlitz]

You crack me up sometimes fella

At home, it took you guys several OT's to beat Loserville. Now granted it was one hell of a comeback, and a great show by you boys, so kudos

We woke up in the 4th quarter and pounded them into mincemeat and got an 11 point victory

Don't give me that BS of barely beating Loserville, makes you look absolutley riddiculous as usual


Yeah, you did stomp the crap out of them in the 4th quarter. Pun intended. Kinda like WVU did to Georgia in the first. I really think you are underestimating the importance of the quarterback position. How a Skins fan can do that, i have no idea. :whoknows:

No comment on the Louisville/Miami point that I made? You contend that Louisville has NO chance against Miami, I'd like to know why. Though im sure ill just get the "no Big East team can beat any ACC team" :rolleyes: argument.

[hokie4redskins]

Though im sure ill just get the "no Big East team can beat any ACC team" :rolleyes: argument.

Now you're getting it!! Congrats.

It wouldn't have mattered who Louisville's QB was. When he wasn't getting absolutely crushed, he did a decent job picking apart our secondary. Point is, we would've gotten at and plowed Brohm into the ground as well. Our blitzes eventually wore down the Louisville O-line and their QB.

We can speculate on future games for an eternity, but one thing I do know is that VT beat the best the BE has to offer by a combined 4 TDs.

[PleaseBlitz]

It wouldn't have mattered who Louisville's QB was.



:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :doh:

[SkinsHokieFan]

No comment on the Louisville/Miami point that I made? You contend that Louisville has NO chance against Miami, I'd like to know why. Though im sure ill just get the "no Big East team can beat any ACC team" :rolleyes: argument.


Miami brings back a very powerful defense, with a terrfic secondary in particular

Kyle Wright>Brock Berlin, KW as a QB did not LOSE games for Miami last year, he just about brought Miami back against FSU (botched FG) and GT worked that o-line that Miami had. But a year into the system, and with some expeirence at WR, I think KW is going to have an excellent season for Miami

And take it from someone who knows, the worst Miami team to face is one with a chip on their shoulder. And these guys will have a serious chip on their shoulder this year, after the Peach Bowl debacle

Miami takes care of business in Loserville

[Major Harris]

so does this thread, started by a tech alum, constitute the obsession that you try to throw at us, SHF?