ZN Top 25: Week 9

*For what seems like the first time ever, I'm actually more upset with the PSU defense than the PSU offense. So, in the spirit of this week's loss, at home, in front of a jacked up crowd, on a national telecast, I'm going to put forth a lackluster effort in this week's ZN Top 25 Rankings. I'm going to give it a half-assed job this week, just like Tom Bradley's defensive playcalling. I ranked PSU lower than Wisconsin, more out of spite than team talent. Obviously, PSU waxed the Badgers, so I think PSU should be around 24-25 in the AP and Coaches polls. This just shows how flawed the poll system is in college football.

1. Ohio State (LW: 1) - PSU might be a bit overrated, but that's what OSU should have done if it's really the No. 1 team.
2. Boston College (2) - Great "Flutie" moment; a bad win, though.
3. Oklahoma (3) - OU will have plenty of chances to prove its BCS worth in coming weeks.
4. LSU (4) - I really think this team is overrated; many disagree, but it did lose, and how many more were too close for comfort. I'm just saying that this team isn't the world-beater it was made out to be.
5. West Virgina (5) - Watch out fellow BCS conferences, WVU could land itself in the title game.
6. Oregon (7) - When was the last time a Pac-10 team was this hot?
7. Arizona State (6) - Oh yeah, never.
8. Kansas (10) - I really like this team to win out, but then get crushed by OU in the Big XII title game.
9. Missouri (9) - This program has been known for its late-season breakdowns; but that may not happen this season.
10. Georgia (23) - This team is really scary; if it only played like that from day one, it'd be on a collision course with the championship game.
11. Michigan (16) - UM is only this high because so many other teams suck so bad.
12. Florida (8) - Do you think UF fans are getting antsy?
13. Hawai'i (15) - Another team that moved up by default.
14. Connecticut (NR) - UConn won't win the Big East, but it will scare a lot of people right up until the end.
15. Boise State (NR) - It was only a matter of time before I came around and ranked the Broncos up here.
16. Virginia Tech (13) - How could the Hokies prevent Matt Ryan's destiny? They couldn't, that's why it's called destiny.
17. USF (11) - Wow, what a turn for the worse; three weeks ago, everyone had this as the darkhorse national title team, now, they may not even win the conference.
18. Alabama (18) - This week against LSU will be the same as PSU vs. OSU; Bama has its entire season on the line right now.
19. Texas (NR) - I still don't like how this team is performing; I thought Colt McCoy was supposed to make people forget about Vince Young.
20. Kentucky (12) - Talk about falling flat on your face; if Rich Brooks doesn't get his team out of bed right now, they better start packing for the Music City Bowl.
21. Wake Forest (NR) - Very quietly, the Demon Deacons have crept back into the conference race; will anyone else notice before it's too late?
22. Wisconsin (22) - I don't like ranking the Badgers here, but you'll find out why in a minute.
23. USC (17) - I am so tempted to completely rid my Top-25 of the Trojans; but a loss to a great team is not as bad as losing to Stanford in LA.
24. Auburn (24) - That USF loss isn't so excusable now; a nice rest this week should help the Tiger's team health.
25. Tennessee (NR) - OK, so the Vols beat USC; just remember how close they were to giving a major choke job.

Dropped Out:
Virginia (14) - That loss to NCSU is inexcusable; if this team is truly a championship caliber squad, it would have won, hands down.
California (19) - The bears are falling faster than George Bush's approval rating.
Penn State (20) - This is really more out of spite than anything; PSU looked pathetic at home.
South Carolina (21) - This team got just a bit too hyped; but it's still a growing program.
Cincinnati (25) - Nice story for a while; getting to a bowl is a great accomplishment and a testament to Brian Kelly's abilities.

Read More...

Summary only...

No. 22 Penn State vs. No. 1 Ohio State, Preview

School: Ohio State University (OSU), Buckeyes
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Jim Tressel, 69-14 overall
Last Game: Defeated Michigan State, 24-17
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 55-9 overall; 5-1 in bowls; 19-1 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: LB James Laurinaitis, DE Vernon Gholston, LB Larry Grant

Key Players, Offense: RB Chris Wells, WR Brian Robiskie, QB Todd Boeckman

What to look for: D – This is the best defense in college football, no doubt about it. OSU essentially shut out MSU last week, with only three points coming off a late FG. Had OSU not given up the TDs off turnovers, they would be giving up less than 6 ppg. Laurinaitis is having an AA-caliber season, even if his stats aren’t out of this world. He’s always in the right place at the right time. OSU will need every bit of Laurinaitis and his fellow ‘backers, Grant and Marcus Freeman. While Grant has been the least publicized, he’s been more productive than anyone on the defense, racking up 7.5 TFL, 3 sacks and an INT. Between the LBs and the line, led by Gholston, OSU has to make stopping the PSU run game priority No. 1. Forcing PSU QB Morelli to win the game will allow the OSU secondary to roam free, without stacking the box.

O – This is not the best offense in college football, though some would make it seem that way. Yes, I know 415 ypg is great, but working with a defense like theirs, OSU never has to worry about making mistakes. OSU hasn’t faced a defense as good or consistent at PSU, or an environment like Beaver Stadium at night this season. Boeckman almost lost the game last week, and if he commits any bad turnovers this week, OSU may not be able to cover it up. Look for a healthy dose of Wells to keep the clock moving and the PSU offense off the field. If OSU can hit a few deep ones to Robiskie or WR Brian Hartline, it can keep PSU off balance. The problem is, PSU plays much better against conventional attacks, like OSU’s, and in hostile territory, OSU will have plenty of communication problems to deal with. OSU will have to avoid stupid penalties, especially in long down situations, as it will only encourage the PSU crowd.

ST – This is Tressel’s forte, but turned out to be less of a factor in 2007. But in a place like Beaver Stadium, OSU will need every point it can muster, which is where K Ryan Pretorius comes in. He’s 13/16 on the year and can’t afford to miss any against PSU. The return game hasn’t been the same since Ted Ginn departed, and in a big game like this, OSU may need a spark from a big return. Field position hasn’t been a problem either, as P AJ Trappasso should win the Ray Guy award, and can keep PSU pinned deep all night.

C – Tressel is the man recently in the Big Ten. Next to USC’s Pete Carroll and Texas’ Mack Brown, not coach has been more consistent. However, PSU has played OSU tough every year, and this week at PSU will make things even worse. Tressel is 1-2 when playing at PSU, with the one win by a single point (21-20, 2003). He failed to unleash his offense in 2005 until the final drive, and it cost OSU the game. If Tressel pulls a “Paterno” and goes conservative on the road, PSU could spring the upset.

Interesting Stat: The buckeye confection, made to resemble the tree's nut, is made by dipping a dollop of peanut butter fudge in milk chocolate, leaving a circle of the peanut butter exposed. These are a popular treat in Ohio, especially during the Christmas and NCAA college football seasons. How gay, if you ask me!

School: The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), Nittany Lions
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Joe Paterno, 42nd Year, 369-123-3
Last Game: Def. Indiana, 36-31
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 36-25; 1-1 in bowls; 7-4 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: LB Dan Connor, CB Justin King, DE Maurice Evans

Key Players, Offense: QB Anthony Morelli, RB Rodney Kinlaw, WR Derrick Williams

What to look for: D – There’s something wrong with college football is Evans isn’t selected lineman of the year. His 10.5 sacks and 17.5 TFL leads the conference, and he’s poised to set school records left and right. PSU will need him on every play against OSU. PSU held Kellen Lewis in check pretty well last week until the last TD run. But Boeckman doesn’t have that run threat for PSU to worry about. So look for more blitzes with Connor and Lee coming as a fifth rusher. OSU’s line is much stronger than IU’s, but even a diluted pass rush should be effective against a stationary Boeckman. James Hardy hosed King last week, but OSU doesn’t have a Hardy. If King can lock down Robiskie, PSU can get more pressure on stopping the run. With DLs Odrick and Hayes out, the line has to step up and forget about being tired. There’s no reason for a poor showing from this unit in Beaver Stadium, unless…

O – The offense puts them in holes. I must say that this unit is night-and-day better than the first half of 2007, but haven’t faced a team like OSU yet. Morelli had one really bad throw last week on the INT, but it wasn’t critical or deep in PSU territory. Regardless, PSU can’t afford any turnovers this week. Morelli did a super job finding the hot receivers and recognizing coverage/blitzes last week, and OSU is sure to try to confuse the living hell out of him. But PSU can avoid relying on Morelli to win the game if the offensive line can get a good push. Kinlaw has been a huge surprise this season, and when he’s not going, RB Evan Royster has shown his youthful brilliance. Like in the 2005 edition, this game could come down to a few pick plays, one of them being when Williams took a pitch in for a TD run, outrunning AJ Hawk in the process. Get Williams in the open with some blockers, and he’s gone to the races.

ST – Special teams bailed out the offense last week, as K Kevin Kelly hit all of his FGs. Hopefully for PSU, this unit won’t be needed as a difference-maker. The biggest focus for PSU should be on kickoffs and punts coverage. If OSU is forced to start drives deep in its own territory, PSU has the defense to make a 90-yard drive nearly impossible.

C – Paterno has to let his coaches do their thing again. It worked great at IU, and can work at home just the same. Let Morelli throw some deep, and don’t be afraid to call some shots to the middle of the field. In 2005, Paterno opted to go for it on 4th-and-2 on PSU’s first scoring drive. PSU needs that sort of confidence in their coaching staff to win in 2007.

Interesting Stat: PSU has only hosted a No. 1 team once, Notre Dame in 1989 (PSU loss 34-23). Paterno is 4-7 all-time against No. 1 teams.

GAME PREDICTION (assuming it rains): This will not disappoint fans. Beaver Stadium will once again live up to its “Greatest Show in College Football” moniker. OSU will take its first drive and move the ball well, scoring a TD to make the PSU fans uneasy. But PSU will come back, kicking a FG to come within four, midway through the second quarter. A tipped Boeckman pass will be picked off by DE Josh Gaines and returned to the OSU 20. PSU will get a quick score from Royster, 10-7 PSU. OSU will get one last possession before the half, with just enough time to tie it on a FG. 10-all at halftime. Neither team will score in the third quarter, exchanging turnovers and punts in a boring stretch. OSU’s Wells will rip off a 25 yarder in the fourth, but a missed handoff will force OSU to settle for a FG. 13-10 OSU. PSU will get the ball back with less than 6 minutes to go, and facing third and very long, get a pass interference call to continue the drive. Morelli will capitalize and on the next play, hit WR Deon Butler inside the five. Three straight runs will result in a Kinlaw TD. OSU will turn it over on downs inside the PSU 35, and PSU runs the clock to less than a minute. Three hail mary’s later… PSU 17, OSU 13. I just can’t see PSU losing at home. I know, UM did it, but his is OSU. PSU’s actually beaten them this century.

PSU 17, OSU 13

VEGAS:

PSU (+3.5) OSU

ACTUAL SCORE:

PSU 17, OSU 37

Read More...

Summary only...

Preview later

Sorry folks, the preview will come later today.

Read More...

Summary only...

Evans, Paterno and the sweater-vests

Okay, so Joe Paterno once again downplayed how he feels during the week leading up to a big game. Sorry, but we know you're lying out your 80-year-old teeth, Joe. If you're not, and telling the truth, then why are you even coaching? Isn't it supposed to be fun and exciting?

I'm surprised Paterno hasn't made more of a push for DE Maurice Evans' case for Defensive End of the Year accolades. I know, the season is still far from over. Evans may not register a sack the rest of the way, but that's not likely. There are four games left, and all he needs is one sack in each of them to break Michael Haynes' single-season record of 14. In 2005, Paterno lobbied hard for Tamba Hali's national recognition, eventually being named consensus All-America and Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year.

I don't know about you, but Jim Tressel should be pretty pissed off right now. I wasn't around this program when Tressel took over at Ohio State, so I never heard the whole "little Jimmy Tressel" story before. Although it was really freaking funny, I thought it was a bit rude, even for Paterno, to bring something like that up. I know, the reporter asked about their relationship, but Paterno didn't have to seeminly stress that story.

Overall, it's been a quiet week, outside of Pennsylvania that is. Even the message boards have been pretty low-key, abeit a little stiff. It seems like everyone is afraid to just come out and say "we have a great shot this week to win." I'll be the first one to admit that I'm practically taking a Kool-Aid bath this week, but if we don't what chance are we really giving them to pull it out?

Read More...

Summary only...

It's Wednesday

Today is my last deadline day at the paper, so I'm pretty swamped (being election season and all). I'll have something later on Joe Paterno's press conference, as well as the future DE POY, Maurice Evans!

This is one of the funniest freaking videos I've seen in a looong time... Enjoy!

Read More...

Summary only...

ZN Top 25: Week 8

*For us Penn State fans, this week will mean the entire season. Let's do it fellas!

1. Ohio State (LW: 1) - The Buckeyes have beaten up on posers; OSU hasn't lost a regular-season game since it lost at PSU in 2005.
2. Boston College (3) - This team has been on the edge all year; if BC and QB Ryan can beat VT, he could punch his ticket to NYC.
3. Oklahoma (4) - Is anyone else thinking this team could end up in New Orleans? Even though it almost crapped out at ISU.
4. LSU (5) - Funny how things work: LSU beat AU, who beat UF, who beat UK, who beat LSU. Weird.
5. West Virgina (9) - Talk about a back-in conference title; not yet though, as RU has it out for last year's WVU win.
6. Arizona State (6) - This team will probably lose to USC, just to piss everyone off.
7. Oregon (11) - If UO beats USC, people will be singing in the streets.
8. Florida (12) - This team did lose two games; but they're still pretty darn good.
9. Missouri (13) - That was a win to propel Mizzou to the conference championship; got to get by KU first.
10. Kansas (15) No one thought KU would be undefeated at this point; the CU win was good enough to jump into the top-10.
11. USF (2) - Is the Cinderella ride over? Not quite.
12. Kentucky (8) - UK could end up being last year's Wisconsin.
13. Virginia Tech (14) - Still... not... sold; beat BC and this is a top-10 team.
14. Virginia (20) - UVA barely lost its first game; and barely won the rest.
15. Hawai'i (17) - Way too one-dimensional.
16. Michigan (22) - I hate ranking UM at all; but, sort of have to at this point.
17. USC (NR) - They're down here because, frankly, losing to Stanford is worse than losing to UO and App. St.
18. Alabama (NR) - This looks like a great 8-win team.
19. California (10) - Losing to the team that lost to ND is baaad.
20. Penn State (21) - If anyone didn't watch this game, you missed a doosie.
21. South Carolina (7) - We shouldn't be too surprised; Vandy almost beat UGA.
22. Wisconsin (24) - Ooo, big man beating up on the little runt; so you think you're tough now UW?
23. Georgia (23) - This team is so blah; sorry, nothing better to say this week about the Dawgs.
24. Auburn (18) - So... freaking... close; but no cigar.
25. Cincinnati (19) - Getting to a bowl is something to be proud of; doing it the way Cincy has is even better.

Dropped Out:
Texas Tech (16) - See? Running the ball, and playing a little defense can actually help you win.
Illinois (25) - This team couldn't handle the spotlight; had UM on the ropes, but failed to go for the kill.

Read More...

Summary only...

A win is a win?

So, PSU had more trouble than ever with a mobile QB. Those mental lapses against IU CAN'T happen next week when No. 1 OSU comes in. I thought DE Evans had a Player of the Week performance. Quite frankly, if it wasn't for him and some other key plays, the defense didn't do well. The offense, well, 36 points is 36 points, but it should have been much higher, settling for too many field goals. Morelli, while, not outstanding, only messed up once on the pick. I felt the defense was the real problem. But we'll see next week against a more conventional OSU attack, in front of 110,000 faithful.

Read More...

Summary only...

In game update

So my prediction went right out the window. Oh well, it's supposed to be fun right? Yeah, well, so far PSU hasn't made this one fun. By the way, what the hell was that Kevin Kelly? A missed PAT? 7-6 IU.

Read More...

Summary only...

No. 25 Penn State at Indiana, Preview

School: Indiana University (IU), Hoosiers
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Bill Lynch, 5-2 overall
Last Game: Lost to Michigan State, 52-27
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 22-47 overall; 0-0 in bowls; 16-10 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: DE Greg Middleton, CB Tracy Porter, LB Will Patterson

Key Players, Offense: QB Kellen Lewis, WR James Hardy, K Austin Starr

What to look for: D – Everyone has been raving about IU’s ability to rush the passer, leading the nation with 32 sacks. However, it doesn’t matter how many sacks you get when you give up a 20-yard play on the next down. IU is giving up 385 yards and 25.3 points per game. Those aren’t good numbers with PSU coming. The one chance IU has in this game is to get Middleton going. He is second in the nation with 9.5 sacks (-61). It may not be so easy, as PSU’s O-line has come on recently. The IU run defense hasn’t been the same the last few weeks, giving up more than 150 ypg. If IU wants to stop the run, they will send LBs Patterson and Adam McClurg on run blitzes. But IU’s undersized D-line could have problems shedding their blocks. Don’t underestimate IU’s pass defense hasn’t been great, but if they can get a few turnovers (which PSU gives away often on the road), the defense can keep points off the board, and that’s all that will matter in this game.

O – IU can pull off the big one here. Lewis is a playmaker, and has another playmaker to throw to in Hardy. They were the only two to do anything against MSU last week. The real reason for IU’s offensive woes LW was because MSU held the ball for 41 minutes. This team relies on the offense to win games, and if Lewis and Hardy have a big play or two, PSU might get nervous. When the QB is your best runner, there’s problem. Many of Lewis’ runs have come on rollouts or scrambles. A team can only survive so long on those plays. PSU is very good at containing mobile/option QBs, so if IU wants to have any sort of ball control, they need to run with RBs Marcus Thigpen or Bryan Payton a few plays. But I have a strong feeling this game will come down to IU airing it out, looking for the big plays, unable to run the ball.

ST – Starr has been just that, nailing 14/15 field goals in 2007. He could be IU’s only chance to get on the board, leading the team with a whopping 71 points in only seven games. P Michael Hines, while not impressive at 38 yard per punt, has been effective at not allowing returns with a 34-yard net average. KR/RB Thigpen returned three KOs for TDs in 2006, but hasn’t gotten rolling in 2007. Illinois’ win was sparked when WR Arrelious Benn took a KO for a TD, and IU could use the same against PSU.

C – While South Florida is the best on-field story; the best off-field story is IU’s Bill Lynch. He’s taken a team, after their head coach tragically died from a brain tumor this summer, to a place IU fans have only dreamed about for 13 years–bowl eligibility. At 5-2, this could be the best coaching job in the Big Ten. (Shut up Illinois fans) While this game won’t be the most memorable, the season will be come December, when IU is playing somewhere warmer than Memorial Stadium.

Interesting Stat: IU hasn’t had a winning season since 1994. (No bowl invitation)

School: The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), Nittany Lions
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Joe Paterno, 42nd Year, 368-123-3
Last Game: Def. No. 18 Wisconsin, 38-7
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 36-25; 1-1 in bowls; 7-4 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: LB Dan Connor, LB Sean Lee, DE Maurice Evans

Key Players, Offense: QB Anthony Morelli, RB Rodney Kinlaw, WR Derrick Williams

What to look for: D – This week will be tougher on the defense than people think. While PSU had little problem with Ilinois’ QB Juice Williams (it was the other players than hurt PSU), IU’s Lewis is a much better passer. DEs Evans and Josh Gaines have to get to Lewis quickly for the pass rush to be effective. Coverage sacks are for pro-style QBs, not a runner like Lewis. But that run threat can’t be the main focus this week for the back seven. PSU likes to blitz, but watch for fewer defenders coming, as the LBs will frequently drop back into zones and spy coverage. Over the last few games, LB Lee has outplayed Connor. But that’s not a bad thing. One of those two may not have such a great game this week, but no one will notice because the rest of the defense will step up. It was nice to finally see S Anthony Scirrotto make a big impact in last week’s game. Watch for the PSU secondary to be hungry once again.

O – Now, was that really QB Morelli? Playing away from Beaver Stadium has been PSU’s kryptonite since 2000, and the valuable lessons learned from Illinois and Michigan must be applied this week: No turnovers, No bad penalties. I can’t remember the last time Morelli looked so calm and collected in the pocket (or even on the rollouts) as he did last week. The passing game has to be used this week to set up the run again. WR Williams has to become more of a factor against a defense that isn’t as good as Wisconsin’s or Iowa’s. But if he doesn’t, any of the other WRs should fill in nicely again. There’s no reason PSU won’t run the ball well on IU; it just won’t be the first choice. RB Kinlaw has been the story; I don’t care what Morelli has done. It’s been Kinlaw who’s stepped up and surprised many. This week he should see a lot of carries in the second and third quarters, before RB Evan Royster gets some snaps in. Watch for another 200+ PSU rushing game.

ST – The special teams play last week was actually the only disappointment in the win, coming from Williams’ fumble on the punt return. But, in the overall scheme of things, it was a good game. This week, IU’s Thigpen is dangerous on KRs, and PSU has been suspect in that area. Staying in coverage lanes is essential this week.

C – What? PSU found a weakness in the opposing defense? And exploited it? No way. Way! The Wisconsin win was easily the best coaching job done by PSU in a long time. Really, it wasn’t just that PSU had better talent–UW is a good team. It was that PSU out play-called UW. If PSU plays it safe again on the road, this will be an ugly win. If PSU calls another game like either of the last two, this will be a monstrous blowout.

Interesting Stat: PSU has allowed 12 TDs in its last 13 games.

GAME PREDICTION: IU will come out of the tunnel jacked up and ready to go. That will all change on the first few drives. PSU will force three consecutive three-and-outs by IU. After stalling on their first drive and settling for a FG, PSU will turn around and score two quick TDs from good field position. 17-0 PSU. Going into the second half, IU will drive the ball, but miss a FG, giving momentum back to PSU. Kinlaw will have 100 yards by the mid-third quarter. Enter Royster. He rips a big one for at least 45 yards, putting PSU up 31-0. Backups are in by the fourth. IU will finish with 250 yards of offense, but most of that will come directly from Lewis. PSU will roll for 500+ yards, 250+ on the ground. Morelli throws a pick deep in PSU territory, but later reviewed and called incomplete, killing any chance of an IU comeback before the half.

PSU 45, IU 3

VEGAS:

PSU (-7.5) IU

ACTUAL SCORE:

PSU 36, IU 31

Read More...

Summary only...

Not since '87

Yeah, it's been that long since Indiana has beaten Michigan. Make you feel better PSU fans? Me neither. But it's still nice to know there's a team out there that has a losing streak to the Corn and Blue longer than PSU's. As a little prep before tomorrow's IU/PSU preview, I wanted to talk a little bit about "the stand" in 2004. You can't ignore–yet somehow, Joe Paterno can–the idea that it was a major turning point in PSU's fortune, and set the stage for its 2005 Big Ten title.

If you really take a look at the 2004 game, that goal line stand should have never happened. Two plays earlier, CB Anwar Philips stepped in front of a QB Matt Lovecchio pass along the PSU sideline, but couldn't haul it in for the sure pick-six. On the following play, Lovecchio went right at Philips again, this time completing a post route down to the one-yard line. I'll discuss a bit later the ensuing four straight, disatrous run plays by IU.

So, those two plays prior to the stand meant more to the game's outcome than the stand itself. PSU lead 22-16; a IU field goal would be meaningless. Now, what if Philips didn't bobble the INT? He would have been gone for a TD, which would have increased the PSU lead to 13, essentially ending the game right then and there. But no, the ball fell harmlessly to the ground. What if, then, as IU's receiver hauled in the pass to the one, Philips got a hand in and broke it up? No goal-line stand. What if Philips hadn't tackled that receiver at the one, but let him score? Assuming IU wouldn't miss the PAT, 23-22 lead for IU. Would QB Zack Mills and PSU be able to muster up a FG with less than 1:30 left? Probably not.

Now, let's look at the stand. I used to have this game on tape, (because, as most of you know, I'm a loser and still tape all the games to watch them later, even the losses) but the cassette cracked and it's unusable. However, from what I remember, IU didn't just send runs up the gut all four downs. I think three of them were; there was an option run that PSU covered perfectly, tackling Lovecchio for a one-yard loss. The final play was probably the most impressive of all three for PSU, as IU lined up in the "Maryland I" formation (three backs in the straight I-formation. With two blockers in front of him, RB BenJarvis Green-Ellis was stopped short by about a foot.

The final point I'd like to make on the stand is this: Had IU thrown one freaking pass on any of the four final downs, less time would have been taken off the clock with an incompletion. That's the very least IU could have gotten out of a pass play, never mind a possible TD. PSU ended up running out the clock, thanks to the time-consuming runs IU called.

Let's hope this week doesn't come down to another thriller like 2004. If we're lucky, as PSU fans, we will be able to rest assured by halftime that victory is certain.

Read More...

Summary only...

Really, really bored...

From YouTube, through SI.com... Love it... But I must say I've seen hotter at PSU...

Read More...

Summary only...

It's Wednesday

And I'm bored yet again...

Read More...

Summary only...

ZN Top 25: Week 7

*The season continues to spiral out of control...

1. Ohio State (LW: 2) - This is really a toss up between the top two; so don't take too much stock in who's No. 1 this week.
2. USF (6) - There's been little love in the polls for USF; they did beat the team that almost beat Texas, remember.
3. Boston College (5) - I hesitate to put BC this high, but if they can get through the next few games, they'll deserve it.
4. Oklahoma (4) - Colorado is much better than people think, and beating Mizzou reminds everyone how good OU truly is.
5. LSU (1) - It was triple OT; if that was their worst loss, they'll be national champs.
6. Arizona State (7) - The Sun Devils have been playing with fire lately; a win vs. Cal will put much to rest.
7. South Carolina (8) - Spurrier has the 'Cocks in the East drivers seat; Vandy isn't all that bad, oh who am I kidding.
8. Kentucky (21) - I know, how can I rank LSU higher? Well, isn't it really about who you lose to, rather than who you've beaten?
9. West Virgina (12) - Something BCS this way could come; with a decent MSU team coming, WVU can't slip up.
10. California (3) - Did anyone else actually watch the Cal loss? What a game; Riley, Riley, Riley.
11. Oregon (16) - It's all about beating USC from here on out.
12. Florida (14) - I don't think the Gators lose three in a row; but, it's Kentucky.
13. Missouri (9) - The TT game this week could mean more than the OU loss.
14. Virginia Tech (15) - Heading into the toughest part of the sked, VT has a chance to get back into the top 10.
15. Kansas (18) This is way too low, but really, who has KU beaten?
16. Texas Tech (NR) - After dismantling A&M, TT must prove it's legit the next few weeks.
17. Hawai'i (17) - This team is still too one-dimensional for me.
18. Auburn (NR) - After being thrown down the gutter by voters, AU has crept back to respectability.
19. Cincinnati (10) - This team was just waiting to fall back to earth; it's still good enough to win the conference.
20. Virginia (20) - I threw out UVA as a potential surprise team in the pre-season rankings; now, it looks like that gamble will pay off a bit.
21. Penn State (NR) - Like I said before, it's more about how you lose than how you win; PSU's losses were close, but all the wins were still big.
22. Michigan (NR) - Still a suspect defense; holding down PU isn't a major feat.
23. Georgia (23) - If Vandy didn't fumble, the Dogs would have probably lost.
24. Wisconsin (13) - This team is going into the tank; there's a big chance for redemption in coming weeks.
25. Illinois (11) - One penalty changed UI's season; can they get it back with a win vs. UM?

Dropped Out:
Florida State (19) - Even without losing seasons, FSU's current state is somehow just as painful as PSU's weak years.
USC (22) - I'm not a hypocrite; if UM dropped out so quickly, so does USC.
Indiana (24) - IU won't be able to match its early season success, but will still make a bowl for the first time since '94.
Purdue (25) - Can this program ever do anything but fail to live up to its early-season hype?

Read More...

Summary only...

Penn State vs. No. 19 Wisconsin, Preview

School: University of Wisconsin (UW), Badgers
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Bret Bielema, 17-2-0
Last Game: Lost to No. 18 Illinois, 31-26
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 46-19-0 overall; 3-2 in bowls; 18-1 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: DL Matt Shaughnessy, LB Elijah Hodge, CB Jack Ikegwuonu

Key Players, Offense: QB Tyler Donovan, RB PJ Hill, TE Travis Beckum

What to look for: D – Illinois rolled up 289 rushing yards vs. UW, but more importantly, UW failed to generate any turnovers. If there is one way the UW defense can get PSU on its heels, pick off a few passes or jar the ball loose from QB Morelli’s butterfingers. But that’s no guarantee, as Iowa gained three turnovers vs. PSU, but failed to capitalize. CB Ikegwuonu has been quiet recently, but that could be due to opposing QBs throwing away from him. That might not be the case vs. PSU, since PSU likes using the pass to set up the run. That leads to the UW front seven. Can they stop anyone? The PSU attack won’t be spread out like Illinois, but PSU does use 3-4 WR sets often. UW missed a lot of tackles last week, and failed to get pressure on the QBs recently. DE Shaughnessy and his line have to step up against a PSU front that really came on vs. Iowa.

O – UW owned the first quarter vs. Illinois, with a 11:22-3:38 TOP advantage, but the scoreboard didn’t show it, trailing 7-0. That can’t happen at PSU. Considering RB Hill was injured early on, and backup Lance Smith can’t travel, UW ran the ball well at 4.1 yards a pop. But that’s still not good enough at PSU. Sorry folks, with a gimpy Hill, and no solid backup, UW won’t be able to run the ball against a nasty PSU front seven. But where the run game fails, QB Donovan can easily make plays. That might be easier said than done vs. PSU, since star WR Luke Swan is out for the year with a muscle tear. PSU has had trouble with the spread offense, just like UW, but this will be a traditional Big Ten match up of pro-style offenses. As much as UW can put points on the board, it hasn’t faced a defense like this yet, in front of 109,000 rocking fans.

ST – There was a significant edge for UW last week in special teams, but most of that came from Illinois’ miscues. Usually-reliable P Ken DeBauche averaged only 33.7 yards per punt, none over 50 yards and none inside the 20. PSU PR Derrick Williams is due for a big return, and if UW doesn’t watch out in the kicking game, this could be a trouble spot. UW started four drives inside the 20 vs. Illinois, and if that happens at PSU, the student section will feed off of the bad field position and give QB Donovan difficulties.

C – I think HC Beilema is a good coach, but he also stepped into a great situation. UW probably handled its coaching change better than any school in recent history. Now, after only his second loss in two years, Beilema will have to march his men into one of the worst places to play. If UW plays tight, and calls the game conservatively, they’re doomed. The staff has to let QB Donovan take some shots downfield early, even with his inexperienced WR corpse.

Interesting Stat: Wisconsin eats a lot of cheese. So, I couldn’t find anything truly intriguing.

School: The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), Nittany Lions
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Joe Paterno, 42nd Year, 367-123-3
Last Game: Def. Iowa, 27-7
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 36-25; 1-1 in bowls; 7-4 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: LB Dan Connor, LB Sean Lee, Both Safeties (Davis or Rubin & Scirrotto)

Key Players, Offense: QB Anthony Morelli, RB Rodney Kinlaw, WR Derrick Williams

What to look for: D – The PSU defensive front seven will have to force UW to go to the air, which is why I listed the two PSU safeties as key defensive players this week. I have a good feeling PSU can stop UW’s power run game, pretty much because it’s not Mike Hart toting the ball. UW RB Hill is very good, but so was Brian Calhoun in 2005, when PSU held him to 20 carries and 38 yards, well below his 135-yard average coming in. So this is where the PSU safeties come in. UW has probably the best TE in the nation in Travis Beckham, and love to throw those 20-yard seam routes, which Notre Dame used in deadly fashion vs. PSU in 2006. Take away the middle of the field, and the PSU defense can force UW out of their game plan. One worry, coming out of the Iowa win, is PSU’s struggles against the 15-20 yard out and flag routes. UW will miss their star WR Luke Swan this week, but Iowa figured out PSU’s cover-2 zone last week, and now UW has the tape to look at.

O – I said last week PSU’s offense would wake up on time vs. Iowa. They did. Many are worried about QB Morelli’s two picks in Q4, but I’m not. I don’t care what he does when PSU has a 20-point lead in Q4. UW’s allowed a combined 65 points and 974 yards of total offense over the last two games. Remember, Pitt held MSU to 17 points at E. Lansing. PSU’s run game should continue its progress this week, as this is not the great UW defense from last season. ICOO Galen Hall got the ball to WR Williams last week, and has to keep it up this week. I really like that PSU is taking more shots downfield to open the game, and can take advantage of UW this week with a few deep early. They don’t even have to be completions, as long as it gets the UW front seven out of the box. HC Paterno always opens up the offense at home, and this week should be no different. This offense can be night and day, depending on where they’re playing.

ST – PSU hasn’t had a kicking game this good in many years. K Kevin Kelly has missed a few, but none of which cost PSU a game. Frosh P Jeremy “Boom” Boone has made many quickly forget just how good former P Jeremy Kapinos was, and that’s tough to do. Boone averages more than 44 yards per punt, frequently downing them inside the 20. If PSU wants to give UW fits, land a few kicks inside the 10. Field position won the game for PSU vs. Iowa, and will decide the game vs. UW.

C – It’s about freaking time. But should we expect anything other than tight play calling on the road, and wide open at home? I really don’t care what the PSU coaching staff does this week, as long as it comes close to the Iowa game plan. The defense was probably run ragged last week in practice after all of the missed tackles vs. Illinois, and this week, they won’t let up. The offensive must be allowed to use its talent, and the staff did that last week. Get the balls to the playmakers (but please, no bubble screens!), and UW won’t stop PSU.

Interesting Stat: PSU vs. Opponents point totals by quarter, Games 1-6 - Quarters 1 & 4: PSU 69, Opp. 69; Quarters 2 & 3: PSU 122, Opp. 13.

GAME PREDICTION:

PSU 24, UW 16

VEGAS:

PSU (-6.5) UW

ACTUAL SCORE:

PSU 38, UW 7

Read More...

Summary only...

ZN Top 25, delayed comments

1. LSU (LW: 1) - This is the only team that "looks" like a national champion so far.
2. Ohio State (3) - OK, so Purdue was overrated; who isn't this season?
3. California (4) - Right now, there's no reason for the Bears missing out on the Rose Bowl berth.
4. Oklahoma (10) - Colorado is a much improved team, so the OU loss there isn't quite as bad; the UT win doesn't carry much weight this season.
5. Boston College (8) - I'm a bit cautious ranking BC here; but they're the best team in the ACC right now.
6. USF (6) - The rest of the Bulls' schedule is winnable; but can they do it after a poor showing against FAU?
7. Arizona State (12) - Undeafeated is undefeated; showdown with the Bears could decide the Pac-10.
8. South Carolina (13) - This USC team wouldn't lose to Stanford; remember their only loss was to LSU.
9. Missouri (20) - Nebraska isn't very good; but then again, Missou is.
10. Cincinnati (16) - I have a bad feeling about this week for the Bearcats; but they should get by UL.
11. Illinois (NR) - I know, I'm jumping on the Ilini bandwagon way too soon; but who else is actually impressive in the Big Ten?
12. West Virgina (15) - The 'Neers should win out, even with dates against RU and Cincy.
13. Wisconsin (5) - This team needs a defense, fast; but this week could be tough on the offense, going up against PSU.
14. Florida (9) - Watch for the SEC East to come down to the Gators and the Gamecocks.
15. Virginia Tech (18) - The Hokies will hang around long enough to challenge for the ACC title; but eveyone will still point to the LSU loss.
16. Oregon (19) UO lost to the best team in the Pac-10; but now has to worry about a WSU team that almost knocked off ASU.
17. Hawai'i (17) - The Warriors will remain here until they do something worth a higher ranking.
18. Kansas (24) - A team that has barely made bowl games is now one win away from clinching a berth; is it just me, or is the Big XII North more exciting now than the B12 South?
19. Florida State (NR) - Would anyone else be that surprised if the 'Noles made a run to the BCS?
20. Virginia (NR) - The Wyoming loss isn't as bad as it used to be; but barely beating MTSU is just scary.
21. Kentucky (7) - If the 'Cats are a good team, they'll rebound this week.
22. USC (2) - I was tempted to drop the Trojans out of the rankings; but honestly, there have been plenty of top teams that have fallen to bad opponents.
23. Georgia (11) - I know, I know; how could I not rank Tennessee here? Well, frankly, that loss was an oddity.
24. Indiana (NR) - Could this be the year that the battle over the Old Oaken Bucket actually means something other than bragging rights?
25. Purdue (14) - See above; this will either be a typical PU slide, or a chance to get back on the horse.

Dropped Out:
Kansas St. (21) - The UT win can only carry the 'Cats so far; this team will be better next season, after they go bowling.
Rutgers (22) - New Jersey has declared a state of emergency; but for once, it's not involving toxic chemicals.
Texas (23) - Watch out 'Horns, it's getting hotter in Austin these days; this is why Vince Young should have won the Heisman.
Michigan State (25) - Thank you Spartans, I almost forgot to turn my calendar to October; do the changing leaves trigger your annual autumn collapse?

Read More...

Summary only...

Next Butkus Winner... Lee?

Could it be that the best linebacker on the 2007 PSU football team is in fact not AA Dan Connor, but Sean Lee? It's a very tough call, but the junior LB is every bit as good as the senior captain, in terms of production on the field:

S. Lee- Tackles: 63; TFL: 5; Sack: 2; PD: 2; FF: 1; FR: 0.
D. Connor- Tk: 58; TFL: 8.5; Sack: 4; PD: 5; FF: 0; FR: 1.

I don't know about any of you, but those are award-consideration numbers. If Lee continues on this pace, he'll log 126 total tackles, and double everything else. That would be the highest single-season total since Ed O'Neil had 126 in 1972 and Brian Gelzheizer in 1994. (Both had 126).

Connor, on the other hand, can easily smash Paul Pozluszny's career record (372) with 390 if he continues at his current 2007 pace. He's already seventh on PSU's all-time tackles list. Remember, Connor missed the first three games of 2005, a season which he had 76 tackles in nine games.

This is just something that I've noticed lately, especially PSU's defense woke up on time against Iowa. I'm going to the Wisconsin game this week, so I expect to lose my voice by the end of the first quarter. I would expect nothing less from anyone else in attendance.

I expect to finally post my comments on this week's ZN Top 25 rankings. It was a crazy week, part of a crazy season. Could 2007 be the greatest season ever for college football? We'll leave that for another day.

Read More...

Summary only...

Lucky?

Well, once in a while, I like to rub it in people's faces when I make an accurate prediction. This week, I was pretty damn close. Not only did I come within 4 points of PSU's score, but I wrote that PSU would score 13 points in the first half. Not only that, but I also said they would all come in the second quarter, unanswered by Iowa. Now, I know I said Iowa would score, but I was still pretty close, missing by only 6 points.

ZN's Prediction: PSU 23, UI 13
Actual Score: PSU 27, UI 7

Not bad, if you ask me.

Read More...

Summary only...

Two-year anniversary

Today is Oct. 8. Two years ago on this date, then-No. 16 Penn State staged one of the greatest games in college football history (even if you're not a PSU fan, this was one of the best), by defeating then-No. 6 Ohio State in a night game at Beaver Stadium. Let us relive the moment that was possibly the loudest (I say that even after being at the 2002 Nebraska game) in PSU football history...

Read More...

Summary only...

ZN Top 25, Week 6

*I'll have my comments on the Top 25 later.

1. LSU (LW: 1)
2. Ohio State (3)
3. California (4)
4. Oklahoma (10)
5. Boston College (8)
6. USF (6)
7. Arizona State (12)
8. South Carolina (13)
9. Missouri (20)
10. Cincinnati (16)
11. Illinois (NR)
12. West Virgina (15)
13. Wisconsin (5)
14. Florida (9)
15. Virginia Tech (18)
16. Oregon (19)
17. Hawai'i (17)
18. Kansas (24)
19. Florida State (NR)
20. Virginia (NR)
21. Kentucky (7)
22. USC (2)
23. Georgia (11)
24. Indiana (NR)
25. Purdue (14)

Dropped Out:
Kansas St. (21)
Rutgers (22)
Texas (23
Michigan State (25)

Read More...

Summary only...

Penn State vs. Iowa, Preview

School: University of Iowa (UI), Hawkeyes
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Kirk Ferentz, year, 57-46-0
Last Game: Lost to Indiana, 38-20
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 44-19 overall; 2-3 in bowls; 15-3 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: DE Mitch King, LB Mike Humpal, LB Mike Klinkenborg

Key Players, Offense: QB Jake Christensen, RB Albert Young, KR/WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos

What to look for: D – Don’t let the Indiana loss fool you; this defense is good. Before last week, Iowa was in the top-5 statistically in most defensive categories. Still, after allowing 322 pass yards and 73 on the ground, they’re still in the top-20 defensively. The UI run defense is the best it’s been in years, and should have no problem containing a suspect PSU run game. The front seven will be key to any success at PSU, and if DE King and LBs Humpal and Klinkenborg can harass the PSU backfield often enough, UI has a good chance in this one. UI held its first four opponents to fewer than 17 points, and still average less than 15 points per game allowed. This UI team is scarily similar to PSU: great defense, but an offense that, well…

O – …Just can’t seem to get it together in the clutch. UI rolled for 428 total yards against IU, but only managed 20 points. Sound familiar PSU fans? UI QB Christensen piled up 308 pass yards, but was sacked an unacceptable nine times. Even though IU is the nat