Every year college players have the chance to realize their dreams and cash in on a potentially lucrative career by taking their talents to the NFL. Let's take a look at some of the guys who passed up the possibility of declaring for the NFL draft in order to stay in school and possibly help lead their teams to Conference and National Championships.
1. Justin Blackmon and Brandon Wheedon, Oklahoma State- Okie State was picked by everybody to finish near the bottom of the Big 12 South this year. But led by Brandon Wheedon, Justin Blackmon and Kendall Hunter they put up the 2nd most points in College Football and passed for the 3rd most yards. As a redshirt sophomore Justin Blackmon emerged as one of the most dynamic wide receivers in the land. In 12 games he caught 111 balls for 1782 yards and 20 TD. He finished 1st in the Nation in TD receptions, 1st in Receiving Yards per game, 2nd in Total Receiving Yards, 2nd in Receptions per Game and 3rd in Total Receptions. To say it was a break-out season would be a huge understatement. In 2009 Brandon Wheedon backed up Zac Robinson and only threw 24 passes all season. This year he got his opportunity and did not waste it. Wheedon put up 4277 yards passing (2nd to only Landry Jones in Big 12 land) and was the highest rated passer in the pass happy Big 12. I'm not sure about how valued Wheedon is by the NFL, especially since he's a 27 year old college QB, but getting both of these guys to come back to school (especially Blackmon) was a huge coo for Mike Gundy. Now the biggest question is how the Cowboys offense will function with Dana Holgerson moving on to West Virginia.
2. Andrew Luck, Stanford- This was the most surprising of all as Luck was thought by many to be the #1 overall pick in the draft. Luck would be my #1 with a bullet if Jim Harbaugh had come back to coach Stanford. Stanford did stay in house with their coaching choice to replace Harbaugh by picking Offensive Coordinator David Shaw. Keeping the offense in tact will be huge for Shaw and Luck. Luck was the third highest rated passer in the Nation (behind some guys named Cam Newton and Kellen Moore) and also led the Pac-10 in Passing Yards and TD. I think it's safe to say that Stanford is here to stay (at least for another year).
3. Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma- Oklahoma went 12-2 this year and won the Big 12 Championship. Now they are poised for a run at the National Championship and Broyles coming back gives them the shot in the arm that they might just need to get them over the hump. Broyles led the Nation last year with 131 catches and helped Landry Jones become a much better QB in 2010. Broyles also led the Nation with 9.4 receptions per game, that's an incredible number and Big 12 defenses are going to have their hands full with Broyles and the Sooners offense next year.
4. Kellen Moore, Boise State- Ok, so maybe he's not widely coveted by the NFL. But we still see guys go pro that have no business doing so. Moore is only listed as 6'0" so maybe he's not the typical NFL QB but he sure is the cog that keeps Boise State going. This year the Broncos lose their top two receiving targets in Titus Young and Austin Pettis (both reeled in 71 catches last year) so keeping Moore is huge for maintaining the offense and breaking in some new targets. Moore's stats are as impressive as any other QB in College Football. Over the last two years he has passed for over 7000 yards and has 74 TD and only 9 Interceptions.
5. Case Keenum, Houston- This isn't the typical staying in school but Keenum was a 5th year senior who suffered a torn ACL and missed the last 9 games of last season. Without Keenum, Houston finished the season winning just 3 of their last 9 and concluded the season with a record of 5-7. With Keenum they went 10-4 in 2009. In the two years spanning 2008 and 2009 Keenum passed for over 10,000 yards and posted 44 TD in both of those seasons. If nothing else, Keenum provides us bloggers and sports writers some stats to drool over. Keenum was granted a 6th season by the NCAA and this guy is looking forward to watching it.
6. Jared Crick, Nebraska- There are some good defensive players who passed up the draft but this one might have the biggest impact. Last year Crick posted 70 total tackles (3rd on the team), 14.5 tackles for loss (5th in the Big 12) and 9.5 sacks (2nd in the Big 12). Nebraska was 9th in scoring defense last year in the Nation but their offense faltered and they fell to defeat in 3 of their last 4 games. With Crick coming back Nebraska doesn't need to worry about their DL as they prepare for their first game in their inaugural season in the Big 10.
Honorable Mention: Michael Floyd/Notre Dame, Mark Barron/Alabama, Janoris Jenkins/Florida, LaMichael James/Oregon, Russell Wilson/NC State
Showing posts with label Oklahoma State Cowboys. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Oklahoma State Cowboys. Show all posts
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Saturday, January 8, 2011
2010 CFBZ College Football Awards
NCAA Offensive Player of the Year:
Winner: QB Cameron Newton, Auburn
Newton took an 8-5 team and has them playing in the National Championship Game. He's the highest rated passer in all of College Football and he's 13th in rushing (including leading the SEC in rushing....as a QB).He has 20 TD running the football, 28 passing and he even caught a TD pass against Ole Miss. What more is there to say? He was amazing to watch. His stats were incredible and his highlights were even more jaw-dropping. He was a sensation.
Runner-Up: RB LaMichael James, Oregon
Honorable Mention: QB Andrew Luck (Stanford), QB Denard Robinson (Michigan), QB Dan Persa (Northwestern), QB Ryan Mallet (Arkansas), QB Kellen Moore (Boise St), QB Andy Dalton (TCU), WR Justin Blackmon (Oklahoma St)
NCAA Defensive Player of the Year:
Winner: DE Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
He led the Nation in sacks with 15 averaging 1.15 per game. He was second in the Nation (to Ryan Kerrigan of Purdue) with 25 tackles for loss.
Runner-Up: DT Nick Fairley, Auburn
Honorable Mention: DE Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue), CB Patrick Peterson (LSU), CB Jaron Hosley (Virginia Tech), LB Von Miller (Texas A&M), LB Luke Kuechly (Boston College)
NCAA Coach of the Year:
Winner: Chip Kelly, Oregon
Kelly has really developed Oregon into an offensive juggernaut. They score the most points at 49.3 per game and also gain the most yards at 537 per game. But they aren't a one-dimensional football team as their defense also ranks 12th in points allowed at 18 per game. Kelly has this machine running and he just fills in the pieces as needed.
Runner-Up: Jim Harbaugh, Stanford
Honorable Mention: Randy Edsall (UConn), Bret Bielema (Wisconsin), Gene Chizik (Auburn), Michael Haywood (Miami/OH), Mark Dantonio (Michigan State), Dan Mullen (Mississippi State), Doug Marrone (Syracuse), Gary Patterson (TCU), Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State)
NCAA Coordinator of the Year:
Winner: Gus Malzahn, Auburn
Sure Malzahn has Cam Newton to thank but Malzahn did a great job this year molding his offense into an offense that best fits Cam Newton and his personnel. Malzahn would probably rather throw the ball all over the field but he saw what would help his team win and made some tweaks as the season went on.Without Malzahn, Auburn is not playing in the National Championship Game...it's that simple.
Runner-Up: Dana Holgorsen, Oklahoma State
Honorable Mention: Dick Bumpas (TCU), Mark Helfich (Oregon), Scott Shafer (Syracuse), John Chavis (LSU), Paul Chryst (Wisconsin), Bryan Harsin (Boise State), Kirby Smart (Alabama)
SEC Player of the Year:
Winner: QB Cam Newton, Auburn
Do we need to re-hash this? If he's the NCAA Offensive Player of the Year then we are also taking him for SEC Player of the Year.
Runner-Up: QB Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
Honorable Mention: DT Nick Fairley (Auburn), WR Alshon Jeffrey (South Carolina), RB Marcus Lattimore (South Carolina), CB Patrick Peterson (LSU), WR Julio Jones (Alabama)
Big Ten Player of the Year:
Winner: QB Denard Robinson, Michigan
This was a very tight race between Robinson and Persa but ultimately Robinson stats were just too good to ignore. As a QB Robinson rushed for 1702 yards (second to only Mikel Leshoure of Illinois who rushed for 4 more yards than Denard) averaging 6.6 yards per carry. Robinson also threw for 2570 yards. Without Robinson, Michigan doesn't go to a bowl game.
Runner-UP: QB Dan Persa, Northwestern
Honorable Mention: DE Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue), RB Mikel Leshoure (Illinois), QB Kirk Cousins (Michigan State), QB Scott Tolzien (Wisconsin), QB Terrelle Pryor (Ohio State), WR Dan Sanzenbacher (Ohio State), RB Montee Ball (Wisconsin), RB James White (Wisconsin)
Big 12 Player of the Year:
Co-Winner: WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
Blackmon finished his freshman season with 20 receptions for 2 TD. This year he had 111 receptions for 1782 yards (and that's missing a game) and was a big reason for Oklahoma State exceeding everybody's expectations this year. Blackmon finished 3rd in the Nation in receptions, 2nd in receiving yards, 2nd in receptions per game and 1st in TD. He was a difference maker in the Big 12.
Co-Winner: QB Landry Jones, Oklahoma
What a difference a year makes. Landry really blossomed this year and helped the Sooners rebound from a disappointing 8-5 season to winning the Big 12 and playing in a BCS bowl game. Landry finished 2nd in the Nation in Passing Yards (only Bryant Moniz of Hawai'i had more) and passing TD with 38 (2nd again to Moniz).
Honorable Mention: WR Ryan Broyles (Oklahoma), QB Robert Griffin (Baylor), QB Brandon Weeden (Oklahoma State), RB Kendall Hunter (Oklahoma State), RB Daniel Thomas (Kansas State), LB Von Miller (Texas A&M)
ACC Player of the Year:
Winner: QB Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech
The season could not have started out worse for Virginia Tech as they lost to Boise State and then fell victim of an unfathomable upset at the hands of James Madison. Behind Tyrod's Senior Leadership the Hokies rebounded and won 11 straight regular season games and went undefeated in the ACC. Taylor passed for 2743 yards and had a great TD to INT ratio (24 TD and only 5 INT). He finished the year as the highest rated passer in the ACC (a conference that also includes Christian Ponder, Russell Wilson, Kyle Parker and T.J. Yates). Tyrod also placed in the Top 15 in the ACC in rushing as he finished with 659 yards and 5 TD running the football.
Runner-Up: DE Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
Honorable Mention: QB Russell Wilson (NC State), QB T.J. Yates (UNC), CB Jayron Hosley (VT), RB Montel Harris (BC), WR Torrey Smith (Maryland)
Big East Player of the Year
Winner: RB Jordan Todman (UConn)
UConn rode Todman to their first BCS birth and Big East Championship. Todman had an incredible year and led the Big East in rushing and came in 3rd Nationally (only 11 yards behind Mikel Leshoure and 7 behind Denard Robinson) despite missing the game against Buffalo. Todman was a symbol of consistency as he rushed for over 100 yards in 10 of the 12 games he played and his lowest output of the year was 80 yards.
Runner-Up: QB Geno Smith (WVU)
Honorable Mention: RB Bilal Powell (Louisville), QB Ryan Nassib (Syracuse), WR Armon Binns (Cincy), DE Bruce Irvin (WVU), DT Jabaal Sheard (Pitt), CB Blidi Wreh-Wilson (UConn)
Pac-10 Player of the Year
Winner: RB LaMicheal James, Oregon
James finished 3rd in the Heisman voting behind Cam Newton and Andrew Luck but we picked James over Luck (by the narrowest of margins). James was a Tour de Force for Oregon running up 1682 yards at 5.99 yards per clip and also scoring 21 TDs. James did all of this while also missing a game against one of the weakest opponents on Oregon's schedule. Like Todman, James was a model of consistency gaining over 100 yards in 9 of Oregon's 11 games played (so far) and he also gained over 90 yards in every game he played.
Runner-Up: QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
Honorable Mention: QB Darron Thomas (Oregon), RB Jacquizz Rodgers (Oregon St), QB Nick Foles (Arizona), WR Juron Criner (Arizona), WR Jeff Maehl (Oregon)
Non-BCS Conference Player of the Year
Winner: QB Kellen Moore, Boise State
Moore has done everything that Boise State has asked him to do. He engineered a game winning drive in the season opening victory against Virginia Tech and put them in the same position against Nevada before a very make-able FG was missed. Moore was 2nd to only Cam Newton in Passer Rating and posted an incredible TD/INT ratio (35 to 6).
Runner-Up: QB Andy Dalton, TCU
Honorable Mention: QB Colin Kapaernick (Nevada), QB Bryant Moniz (Hawai'i), QB Dominique Davis (ECU), RB Vai Taua (Nevada), QB Ryan Lindley (SDSU), QB Chandler Harnish (NIU), WR Greg Salas (Hawai'i)
Winner: QB Cameron Newton, Auburn
Newton took an 8-5 team and has them playing in the National Championship Game. He's the highest rated passer in all of College Football and he's 13th in rushing (including leading the SEC in rushing....as a QB).He has 20 TD running the football, 28 passing and he even caught a TD pass against Ole Miss. What more is there to say? He was amazing to watch. His stats were incredible and his highlights were even more jaw-dropping. He was a sensation.
Runner-Up: RB LaMichael James, Oregon
Honorable Mention: QB Andrew Luck (Stanford), QB Denard Robinson (Michigan), QB Dan Persa (Northwestern), QB Ryan Mallet (Arkansas), QB Kellen Moore (Boise St), QB Andy Dalton (TCU), WR Justin Blackmon (Oklahoma St)
NCAA Defensive Player of the Year:
Winner: DE Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
He led the Nation in sacks with 15 averaging 1.15 per game. He was second in the Nation (to Ryan Kerrigan of Purdue) with 25 tackles for loss.
Runner-Up: DT Nick Fairley, Auburn
Honorable Mention: DE Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue), CB Patrick Peterson (LSU), CB Jaron Hosley (Virginia Tech), LB Von Miller (Texas A&M), LB Luke Kuechly (Boston College)
NCAA Coach of the Year:
Winner: Chip Kelly, Oregon
Kelly has really developed Oregon into an offensive juggernaut. They score the most points at 49.3 per game and also gain the most yards at 537 per game. But they aren't a one-dimensional football team as their defense also ranks 12th in points allowed at 18 per game. Kelly has this machine running and he just fills in the pieces as needed.
Runner-Up: Jim Harbaugh, Stanford
Honorable Mention: Randy Edsall (UConn), Bret Bielema (Wisconsin), Gene Chizik (Auburn), Michael Haywood (Miami/OH), Mark Dantonio (Michigan State), Dan Mullen (Mississippi State), Doug Marrone (Syracuse), Gary Patterson (TCU), Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State)
NCAA Coordinator of the Year:
Winner: Gus Malzahn, Auburn
Sure Malzahn has Cam Newton to thank but Malzahn did a great job this year molding his offense into an offense that best fits Cam Newton and his personnel. Malzahn would probably rather throw the ball all over the field but he saw what would help his team win and made some tweaks as the season went on.Without Malzahn, Auburn is not playing in the National Championship Game...it's that simple.
Runner-Up: Dana Holgorsen, Oklahoma State
Honorable Mention: Dick Bumpas (TCU), Mark Helfich (Oregon), Scott Shafer (Syracuse), John Chavis (LSU), Paul Chryst (Wisconsin), Bryan Harsin (Boise State), Kirby Smart (Alabama)
SEC Player of the Year:
Winner: QB Cam Newton, Auburn
Do we need to re-hash this? If he's the NCAA Offensive Player of the Year then we are also taking him for SEC Player of the Year.
Runner-Up: QB Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
Honorable Mention: DT Nick Fairley (Auburn), WR Alshon Jeffrey (South Carolina), RB Marcus Lattimore (South Carolina), CB Patrick Peterson (LSU), WR Julio Jones (Alabama)
Big Ten Player of the Year:
Winner: QB Denard Robinson, Michigan
This was a very tight race between Robinson and Persa but ultimately Robinson stats were just too good to ignore. As a QB Robinson rushed for 1702 yards (second to only Mikel Leshoure of Illinois who rushed for 4 more yards than Denard) averaging 6.6 yards per carry. Robinson also threw for 2570 yards. Without Robinson, Michigan doesn't go to a bowl game.
Runner-UP: QB Dan Persa, Northwestern
Honorable Mention: DE Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue), RB Mikel Leshoure (Illinois), QB Kirk Cousins (Michigan State), QB Scott Tolzien (Wisconsin), QB Terrelle Pryor (Ohio State), WR Dan Sanzenbacher (Ohio State), RB Montee Ball (Wisconsin), RB James White (Wisconsin)
Big 12 Player of the Year:
Co-Winner: WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
Blackmon finished his freshman season with 20 receptions for 2 TD. This year he had 111 receptions for 1782 yards (and that's missing a game) and was a big reason for Oklahoma State exceeding everybody's expectations this year. Blackmon finished 3rd in the Nation in receptions, 2nd in receiving yards, 2nd in receptions per game and 1st in TD. He was a difference maker in the Big 12.
Co-Winner: QB Landry Jones, Oklahoma
What a difference a year makes. Landry really blossomed this year and helped the Sooners rebound from a disappointing 8-5 season to winning the Big 12 and playing in a BCS bowl game. Landry finished 2nd in the Nation in Passing Yards (only Bryant Moniz of Hawai'i had more) and passing TD with 38 (2nd again to Moniz).
Honorable Mention: WR Ryan Broyles (Oklahoma), QB Robert Griffin (Baylor), QB Brandon Weeden (Oklahoma State), RB Kendall Hunter (Oklahoma State), RB Daniel Thomas (Kansas State), LB Von Miller (Texas A&M)
ACC Player of the Year:
Winner: QB Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech
The season could not have started out worse for Virginia Tech as they lost to Boise State and then fell victim of an unfathomable upset at the hands of James Madison. Behind Tyrod's Senior Leadership the Hokies rebounded and won 11 straight regular season games and went undefeated in the ACC. Taylor passed for 2743 yards and had a great TD to INT ratio (24 TD and only 5 INT). He finished the year as the highest rated passer in the ACC (a conference that also includes Christian Ponder, Russell Wilson, Kyle Parker and T.J. Yates). Tyrod also placed in the Top 15 in the ACC in rushing as he finished with 659 yards and 5 TD running the football.
Runner-Up: DE Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
Honorable Mention: QB Russell Wilson (NC State), QB T.J. Yates (UNC), CB Jayron Hosley (VT), RB Montel Harris (BC), WR Torrey Smith (Maryland)
Big East Player of the Year
Winner: RB Jordan Todman (UConn)
UConn rode Todman to their first BCS birth and Big East Championship. Todman had an incredible year and led the Big East in rushing and came in 3rd Nationally (only 11 yards behind Mikel Leshoure and 7 behind Denard Robinson) despite missing the game against Buffalo. Todman was a symbol of consistency as he rushed for over 100 yards in 10 of the 12 games he played and his lowest output of the year was 80 yards.
Runner-Up: QB Geno Smith (WVU)
Honorable Mention: RB Bilal Powell (Louisville), QB Ryan Nassib (Syracuse), WR Armon Binns (Cincy), DE Bruce Irvin (WVU), DT Jabaal Sheard (Pitt), CB Blidi Wreh-Wilson (UConn)
Pac-10 Player of the Year
Winner: RB LaMicheal James, Oregon
James finished 3rd in the Heisman voting behind Cam Newton and Andrew Luck but we picked James over Luck (by the narrowest of margins). James was a Tour de Force for Oregon running up 1682 yards at 5.99 yards per clip and also scoring 21 TDs. James did all of this while also missing a game against one of the weakest opponents on Oregon's schedule. Like Todman, James was a model of consistency gaining over 100 yards in 9 of Oregon's 11 games played (so far) and he also gained over 90 yards in every game he played.
Runner-Up: QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
Honorable Mention: QB Darron Thomas (Oregon), RB Jacquizz Rodgers (Oregon St), QB Nick Foles (Arizona), WR Juron Criner (Arizona), WR Jeff Maehl (Oregon)
Non-BCS Conference Player of the Year
Winner: QB Kellen Moore, Boise State
Moore has done everything that Boise State has asked him to do. He engineered a game winning drive in the season opening victory against Virginia Tech and put them in the same position against Nevada before a very make-able FG was missed. Moore was 2nd to only Cam Newton in Passer Rating and posted an incredible TD/INT ratio (35 to 6).
Runner-Up: QB Andy Dalton, TCU
Honorable Mention: QB Colin Kapaernick (Nevada), QB Bryant Moniz (Hawai'i), QB Dominique Davis (ECU), RB Vai Taua (Nevada), QB Ryan Lindley (SDSU), QB Chandler Harnish (NIU), WR Greg Salas (Hawai'i)
Friday, January 7, 2011
Oklahoma State Cowboys: 2010 Exit Survey
2010 CFBZ Prediction: Tie for 5th Place in Big 12 South
2010 Actual Finish: Tied for 1st Place in Big 12 South (11-2, 6-2)
Just about every pre-season publication had the Cowboys finishing at or near the bottom of the Big 12 South. They lost their leading rusher, their QB, Dez Bryant, their top 4 tacklers, and their top 5 interceptors. People didn't count on Brandon Wheedon stepping in and throwing for over 4000 yards (after only attempting 24 passes the previous year) and 34 TDs. They didn't expect Kendall Hunter to rush for over 1500 yards. They didn't know Justin Blackmon would step up and catch over 100 yards encompassing more than 1700 yards and scoring 20 TDs. The Oklahoma State offense was dynamic in 2010. They were the 2nd in the Nation in Passing Yards and 3rd in Points Scored. Oklahoma State capped off their 2010 season by breezing by Arizona in the Alamo Bowl to finish 11-2. We turned to Scott, our resident Oklahoma State "Friend of the Blog" and frequent message board contributor at GoPokes.com to find out more about the Cowboys 2010 season and get a brief glimpse into 2011.
Oklahoma State exceeded just about everybody's expectations this year by finishing 11-2. What were your favorite moments of the football season?
The come from behind victory over A&M. OSU has had a history of losing games like that. I think that was a huge win that made the 11 win season possible. Also being at the Alamo for the historic 11th win.
Which players were the biggest surprises of the season?
Has to be Justin Blackmon. To go from a relative unknown to the Biletnikoff award and setting the NCAA records. Michael Harrison will be a better player next year and could be a great #2 for Weeden. Also Shaun Lewis (true freshman Linebacker) he grew up quickly and made the game changing play against A&M. He will be a stud the next few years.
Which player are you most excited about for next season?
The easy answer would be Blackmon and I do believe he will come back. But for me I think Richetti Jones (DE), Nigel Nicholas (DT), Christian Littlehead (DT), and just the whole defense should be much improved next year and will determine if OSU is a contender for a BCS bowl game.
How big of a loss will Dana Holgerson be? How do you think Mike Gundy will replace him?
No doubt DH was a great hire and did a great job but I do feel Mike Gundy has shown the ability to hire great assistants. From Larry Fedora, to Bill Young, to Dana Holgerson, Gundy has shown that he is a very good evaluator of coaches. Oklahoma State is a place coaches want to be now. With the three year contracts we offer, the town of Stillwater, the facilities, and the success we are having it is no longer a secondary job, it is a place people will want to come.
What do the Cowboys need to do this off-season to shoot for back-to-back 10 win seasons and possibly a Big 12 (or whatever it will be called next year) Championship?
Stay humble and hungry. We lose two DT's but I honestly believe that the last three years we have had better talent coming on to campus. OSU has been recruiting player who were winners in high school. You can see they believe they believe they will win not just can win. I think the biggest question is whether Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon come back. If they do, OSU should be right there. I told friends this was the first time OSU has ever had the pressure of playing for a Big 12 South championship when OU came to Stillwater. OU on the other hand had been there many times. OSU learned what it takes this year. Next year, We will be ready!
2010 Actual Finish: Tied for 1st Place in Big 12 South (11-2, 6-2)
Just about every pre-season publication had the Cowboys finishing at or near the bottom of the Big 12 South. They lost their leading rusher, their QB, Dez Bryant, their top 4 tacklers, and their top 5 interceptors. People didn't count on Brandon Wheedon stepping in and throwing for over 4000 yards (after only attempting 24 passes the previous year) and 34 TDs. They didn't expect Kendall Hunter to rush for over 1500 yards. They didn't know Justin Blackmon would step up and catch over 100 yards encompassing more than 1700 yards and scoring 20 TDs. The Oklahoma State offense was dynamic in 2010. They were the 2nd in the Nation in Passing Yards and 3rd in Points Scored. Oklahoma State capped off their 2010 season by breezing by Arizona in the Alamo Bowl to finish 11-2. We turned to Scott, our resident Oklahoma State "Friend of the Blog" and frequent message board contributor at GoPokes.com to find out more about the Cowboys 2010 season and get a brief glimpse into 2011.
Oklahoma State exceeded just about everybody's expectations this year by finishing 11-2. What were your favorite moments of the football season?
The come from behind victory over A&M. OSU has had a history of losing games like that. I think that was a huge win that made the 11 win season possible. Also being at the Alamo for the historic 11th win.
Which players were the biggest surprises of the season?
Has to be Justin Blackmon. To go from a relative unknown to the Biletnikoff award and setting the NCAA records. Michael Harrison will be a better player next year and could be a great #2 for Weeden. Also Shaun Lewis (true freshman Linebacker) he grew up quickly and made the game changing play against A&M. He will be a stud the next few years.
Which player are you most excited about for next season?
The easy answer would be Blackmon and I do believe he will come back. But for me I think Richetti Jones (DE), Nigel Nicholas (DT), Christian Littlehead (DT), and just the whole defense should be much improved next year and will determine if OSU is a contender for a BCS bowl game.
How big of a loss will Dana Holgerson be? How do you think Mike Gundy will replace him?
No doubt DH was a great hire and did a great job but I do feel Mike Gundy has shown the ability to hire great assistants. From Larry Fedora, to Bill Young, to Dana Holgerson, Gundy has shown that he is a very good evaluator of coaches. Oklahoma State is a place coaches want to be now. With the three year contracts we offer, the town of Stillwater, the facilities, and the success we are having it is no longer a secondary job, it is a place people will want to come.
What do the Cowboys need to do this off-season to shoot for back-to-back 10 win seasons and possibly a Big 12 (or whatever it will be called next year) Championship?
Stay humble and hungry. We lose two DT's but I honestly believe that the last three years we have had better talent coming on to campus. OSU has been recruiting player who were winners in high school. You can see they believe they believe they will win not just can win. I think the biggest question is whether Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon come back. If they do, OSU should be right there. I told friends this was the first time OSU has ever had the pressure of playing for a Big 12 South championship when OU came to Stillwater. OU on the other hand had been there many times. OSU learned what it takes this year. Next year, We will be ready!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Bowl Predictions Part 2 (12/27-12/30)
If you missed the first round of bowl predictions just click here to catch up on what you missed. As of the printing of this blog we have had 5 bowl games and so far Ross is 4-1 in his predictions (only missing on NIU/Fresno) and I'm 3-2.
AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl (12/27 5pm on ESPN 2)
Air Force (8-4) vs. Georgia Tech (6-6)
Kevin's Prediction: AIR FORCE 31 GEORGIA TECH 27
This is a very interesting game as both of these teams present problems for their opponents defense on a weekly basis. Georgia Tech is the #1 rushing attach in the Nation at 327 yards per game and Air Force is #2 at 317. Air Force has a better resume than Georgia Tech does. Air Force beat BYU (35-14), Navy (14-6) and Army (42-22) while Georgia Tech only had one win against a team that finished with a winning record (beat UNC 30-24 and no Georgia Tech fans I'm not counting South Carolina State). From the latest I have read, Joshua Nesbitt will not play in this game. I think that will be the difference but I honestly would not be surprised if either team won this game. This is one to watch as it should be the shortest game of the bowl season due to both teams mashing the ball between the tackles.
Ross's Prediction: AIR FORCE 35, GEORGIA TECH 24
Champs Sports Bowl (12/28 6:30 pm on ESPN)
West Virginia (9-3) vs. North Carolina State (8-4)
Kevin's Prediction: NC STATE 27 WEST VIRGINIA 24
NC State was one of the most surprising teams this year. West Virginia finished 9-3 and didn't lose a game by more than 6 points all year but their season just felt somewhat underwhelming. The big match-up for me in this game is the West Virginia defense (which only gave up 12.8 ppg this year) versus Russell Wilson and NC State's passing attack (which ranked 19th in the Nation this year). My gut says West Virginia but my heart says NC State).
Ross's Prediction: WEST VIRGINIA 28, NC STATE 24
Insight Bowl (12/28 10 pm on ESPN)
Missouri (10-2) vs. Iowa (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: MISSOURI 27 IOWA 17
The biggest thing that sticks in my mind is how Iowa finished the season. They lost 3 straight games, one to Ohio State, but the other two to Northwestern (a decent team) and Minnesota (an awful team). Iowa is also looking at some key suspensions for the bowl game. I'm not in love with Missouri but I like them in this one.
Ross's Prediction: IOWA 24, MISSOURI 17
Military Bowl (12/29 2:30 pm on ESPN)
East Carolina (6-6) vs. Maryland (8-40
Kevin's Prediction: MARYLAND 38 EAST CAROLINA 27
Was there a more up and down team than East Carolina this year? They beat NC State and Southern Miss but got bombed by the likes of Rice and gave up 76 points to Navy. That is not a team I can pick to win a bowl game. East Carolina gave up a whooping 43.4 points per game this year. There is turmoil in Maryland but I think they win this one for the Fridge.
Ross's Prediction: MARYLAND 37, EAST CAROLINA 24
This is another game where an unsettled coaching situation could produce thoroughly unpredictable results, but I think Maryland sends Friedgen out with a win -- especially since ECU's defense is purely theoretical.
Texas Bowl (12/29 6pm on ESPN)
Illinois (6-6) vs. Baylor (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: BAYLOR 34 ILLINOIS 24
I refuse to live in a world where I pick a 6-6 Ron Zook coached team to win a bowl game. Baylor was really good offensively this year and Illinois was known to give up some points this year (see also: back-to-back weeks giving up 67 to Michigan and 38 to Minnesota).
Ross's Prediction: BAYLOR 38, ILLINOIS 31
Valero Alamo (12/29 9:15pm on ESPN)
Oklahoma State (10-2) vs. Arizona (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: OKLAHOMA STATE 38 ARIZONA 28
This is a game that looks fun on paper. Okie State's explosive offense (2nd Nationally in Passing, 29th in Rushing, and 3rd in Scoring) against a pretty good Arizona defense. This would have been a much better match-up if it would have happened early in the year when Arizona was 7-1. Arizona played a tough schedule at the end of the year and fell to Stanford, USC and Oregon. But then they also lost to rival Arizona State. I just can't see them coming back to beat an Okie State team with all those weapons on offense.
Ross's Prediction: OKLAHOMA STATE 34, ARIZONA 24
Armed Forces Bowl (12/30 Noon on ESPN)
Army (6-6) vs. SMU (7-6)
Kevin's Prediction: SMU 28 ARMY 21
The most impressive victory Army had all year was a 45-28 win over 5-7 Kent State. I kid you not. As much as a want to pick Army because this is the "Armed Forces Bowl" I simply can't justify it based on their body of work. SMU isn't exactly a Top 25 team but they did beat East Carolina and Tulsa.
Ross's Prediction: SMU 38, ARMY 24
New Era Pinstripe Bowl (12/30 3:20pm on ESPN)
Kansas State (7-5) vs. Syracuse (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: SYRACUSE 24 KANSAS STATE 21
Not a real high-profile match-up based on name appeal but I like what Syracuse did this year. They turned around a pitiful program into a team that knocked off a Top 25 opponent (19-14 win over West Virginia). Syracuse had a bunch of cupcakes on their schedule (Akron, Maine and Colgate) and took advantage of some down Big East opponents (Cincy and Rutgers) but I really like their improvement. Kansas State actually played a couple of adequate non-conference foes this year (UCLA and UCF) but folded like a tent once they got into the meat of the Big 12 schedule (losses to Nebraska, Baylor, Okie State, Missouri and Colorado). This one looks like a coin toss to me but I think Syracuse is going to be more up for this game than Kansas State.
Ross's Prediction: SYRACUSE 21, KANSAS STATE 17
Music City Bowl (12/30 6:40pm on ESPN)
North Carolina (7-5) vs. Tennessee (6-6)
Kevin's Prediction: NORTH CAROLINA 27 TENNESSEE 24
If you asked me about this one half-way through the year I would have picked UNC by about 30. I think Tennessee started to find itself at the end of the season when they inserted Tyler Bray into the starting line-up but it could also have been the closing stretch of Memphis, Ole Miss, Vandy and Kentucky that did the trick (these teams had a combined record of 13-34). So before we anoint Tennessee as "back" under Derek Dooley lets see them actually beat somebody.
Ross's Prediction: NORTH CAROLINA 31, TENNESSEE 27
Holiday Bowl (12/30 10pm on ESPN)
Nebraska (10-3) vs. Washington (6-6)
Kevin's Prediction: NEBRASKA 34 WASHINGTON 14
This one looks like a total no-brainer. Assuming Nebraska's offense shows up they shouldn't have much of a problem in this one.
Ross's Prediction: NEBRASKA 38, WASHINGTON 17
AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl (12/27 5pm on ESPN 2)
Air Force (8-4) vs. Georgia Tech (6-6)
Kevin's Prediction: AIR FORCE 31 GEORGIA TECH 27
This is a very interesting game as both of these teams present problems for their opponents defense on a weekly basis. Georgia Tech is the #1 rushing attach in the Nation at 327 yards per game and Air Force is #2 at 317. Air Force has a better resume than Georgia Tech does. Air Force beat BYU (35-14), Navy (14-6) and Army (42-22) while Georgia Tech only had one win against a team that finished with a winning record (beat UNC 30-24 and no Georgia Tech fans I'm not counting South Carolina State). From the latest I have read, Joshua Nesbitt will not play in this game. I think that will be the difference but I honestly would not be surprised if either team won this game. This is one to watch as it should be the shortest game of the bowl season due to both teams mashing the ball between the tackles.
Ross's Prediction: AIR FORCE 35, GEORGIA TECH 24
Who better to defend Georgia Tech's vaunted triple-option offense than a team that (a) runs a similar offense themselves, (b) plays multiple teams that run that offense, and (c) is full of smart, disciplined athletes. Tech's main hope is having vastly superior athletes, but I'm not sure that will be enough.
Champs Sports Bowl (12/28 6:30 pm on ESPN)
West Virginia (9-3) vs. North Carolina State (8-4)
Kevin's Prediction: NC STATE 27 WEST VIRGINIA 24
NC State was one of the most surprising teams this year. West Virginia finished 9-3 and didn't lose a game by more than 6 points all year but their season just felt somewhat underwhelming. The big match-up for me in this game is the West Virginia defense (which only gave up 12.8 ppg this year) versus Russell Wilson and NC State's passing attack (which ranked 19th in the Nation this year). My gut says West Virginia but my heart says NC State).
Ross's Prediction: WEST VIRGINIA 28, NC STATE 24
West Virginia probably was the best team in the Big East this year -- but they stumbled against UConn and (more absurdly) Syracuse and that kept them from making yet another BCS bowl this year. But it should still be enough to get by a good-but-not-great NC State team, unless the behind-the-scenes turmoil with the coaching staff is too much for the team to handle. But their defense should be good enough to slow down Russell Wilson and the NC State offense.
Insight Bowl (12/28 10 pm on ESPN)
Missouri (10-2) vs. Iowa (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: MISSOURI 27 IOWA 17
The biggest thing that sticks in my mind is how Iowa finished the season. They lost 3 straight games, one to Ohio State, but the other two to Northwestern (a decent team) and Minnesota (an awful team). Iowa is also looking at some key suspensions for the bowl game. I'm not in love with Missouri but I like them in this one.
Ross's Prediction: IOWA 24, MISSOURI 17
Against my better judgment, I'm picking Iowa in this one. Lord knows, there's plenty of reasons to pick against them -- they ended the year on a three-game losing skid that included a thoroughly pathetic loss to a bad Minnesota team and then lost their best receiver (Derrell Johnson-Koulianos) and best running back (Adam Robinson) for the game in off-field turmoil -- but I think they come out with something to prove and actually win a close game.
Military Bowl (12/29 2:30 pm on ESPN)
East Carolina (6-6) vs. Maryland (8-40
Kevin's Prediction: MARYLAND 38 EAST CAROLINA 27
Was there a more up and down team than East Carolina this year? They beat NC State and Southern Miss but got bombed by the likes of Rice and gave up 76 points to Navy. That is not a team I can pick to win a bowl game. East Carolina gave up a whooping 43.4 points per game this year. There is turmoil in Maryland but I think they win this one for the Fridge.
Ross's Prediction: MARYLAND 37, EAST CAROLINA 24
This is another game where an unsettled coaching situation could produce thoroughly unpredictable results, but I think Maryland sends Friedgen out with a win -- especially since ECU's defense is purely theoretical.
Texas Bowl (12/29 6pm on ESPN)
Illinois (6-6) vs. Baylor (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: BAYLOR 34 ILLINOIS 24
I refuse to live in a world where I pick a 6-6 Ron Zook coached team to win a bowl game. Baylor was really good offensively this year and Illinois was known to give up some points this year (see also: back-to-back weeks giving up 67 to Michigan and 38 to Minnesota).
Ross's Prediction: BAYLOR 38, ILLINOIS 31
There's definite potential for Baylor to fall victim to "just happy to be there" disease for making their first bowl game in years... but the same could be said for Illinois to an extent, since most of their players haven't played in a bowl game, either. When in doubt, it's sometimes useful to go with the best player on the field -- and in this case that's undoubtedly Baylor's do-everything QB, Robert Griffin III. I think he'll have a big game and carry Baylor to a close win.
Valero Alamo (12/29 9:15pm on ESPN)
Oklahoma State (10-2) vs. Arizona (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: OKLAHOMA STATE 38 ARIZONA 28
This is a game that looks fun on paper. Okie State's explosive offense (2nd Nationally in Passing, 29th in Rushing, and 3rd in Scoring) against a pretty good Arizona defense. This would have been a much better match-up if it would have happened early in the year when Arizona was 7-1. Arizona played a tough schedule at the end of the year and fell to Stanford, USC and Oregon. But then they also lost to rival Arizona State. I just can't see them coming back to beat an Okie State team with all those weapons on offense.
Ross's Prediction: OKLAHOMA STATE 34, ARIZONA 24
Both teams lost heart-breakers to their hated in-state rivals in their season finales, so both will be trying to rebound here. But Arizona fell apart down the stretch and Oklahoma State seems to have superior personnel on offense. Arizona also laid the ugliest of eggs last year in the Holiday Bowl, so I don't really have a lot of faith in Mike Stoops' bowl prep ability right now.
Armed Forces Bowl (12/30 Noon on ESPN)
Army (6-6) vs. SMU (7-6)
Kevin's Prediction: SMU 28 ARMY 21
The most impressive victory Army had all year was a 45-28 win over 5-7 Kent State. I kid you not. As much as a want to pick Army because this is the "Armed Forces Bowl" I simply can't justify it based on their body of work. SMU isn't exactly a Top 25 team but they did beat East Carolina and Tulsa.
Ross's Prediction: SMU 38, ARMY 24
It's great that Army made it to a bowl game, but they're not really very good. SMU isn't great, either, but they've looked pretty solid at times and held their own against some quality foes (like TCU). I think June Jones will have the SMU offense ready to shred Army's defense, too.
New Era Pinstripe Bowl (12/30 3:20pm on ESPN)
Kansas State (7-5) vs. Syracuse (7-5)
Kevin's Prediction: SYRACUSE 24 KANSAS STATE 21
Not a real high-profile match-up based on name appeal but I like what Syracuse did this year. They turned around a pitiful program into a team that knocked off a Top 25 opponent (19-14 win over West Virginia). Syracuse had a bunch of cupcakes on their schedule (Akron, Maine and Colgate) and took advantage of some down Big East opponents (Cincy and Rutgers) but I really like their improvement. Kansas State actually played a couple of adequate non-conference foes this year (UCLA and UCF) but folded like a tent once they got into the meat of the Big 12 schedule (losses to Nebraska, Baylor, Okie State, Missouri and Colorado). This one looks like a coin toss to me but I think Syracuse is going to be more up for this game than Kansas State.
Ross's Prediction: SYRACUSE 21, KANSAS STATE 17
On one hand, you could go with the best player on the field -- and that should be Kansas State's Daniel Thomas. On the other hand, you could go with the team more excited to be there -- which is probably Syracuse, given their long years in the wilderness over the past decade. Flip of the coin says Syracuse in a close one.
Music City Bowl (12/30 6:40pm on ESPN)
North Carolina (7-5) vs. Tennessee (6-6)
Kevin's Prediction: NORTH CAROLINA 27 TENNESSEE 24
If you asked me about this one half-way through the year I would have picked UNC by about 30. I think Tennessee started to find itself at the end of the season when they inserted Tyler Bray into the starting line-up but it could also have been the closing stretch of Memphis, Ole Miss, Vandy and Kentucky that did the trick (these teams had a combined record of 13-34). So before we anoint Tennessee as "back" under Derek Dooley lets see them actually beat somebody.
Ross's Prediction: NORTH CAROLINA 31, TENNESSEE 27
Tennessee came on strong at the end of the year, although they mostly did it against so-so competition. North Carolina was good this year, but not good enough to get by the best teams they played (LSU, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Miami, NC State) -- although they did eke one out against Florida State. These teams are pretty evenly matched, but I like UNC to win and end their disappointing season on a minor high note.
Holiday Bowl (12/30 10pm on ESPN)
Nebraska (10-3) vs. Washington (6-6)
Kevin's Prediction: NEBRASKA 34 WASHINGTON 14
This one looks like a total no-brainer. Assuming Nebraska's offense shows up they shouldn't have much of a problem in this one.
Ross's Prediction: NEBRASKA 38, WASHINGTON 17
The rematch no one asked for. Nebraska pulverized Washington when they met earlier this season, and while I don't think the rematch will be quite as lopsided, there's still no reason to pick against Nebraska here. They're much better, especially on defense.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Five Questions: Big 12 Edition
What is the biggest surprise in the Big 12 so far?
Alex: By far it is Texas's fall. How many teams go from losing the national championship game to possibly being last in the conference?
J Martin: It has to be Texas' fall. I never bought into the Garrett Gilbert craze, never thought he was going to step in and be an instant superstar after he made a few good throws against Alabama in the BCS title game. I never bought into this idea that Texas was suddenly going to become a pro-style, power running team and not miss a beat on offense despite not having the personnel to do it. And yet I also never thought we'd be here in the 2nd week of November wondering if Texas was even going to make a bowl. That's shocking. With the talent and the coaches that the Longhorns have, they should never, ever, lose 5 games in a year. But here they are, sitting at 4-5, staring down the barrel of two more.
Kevin: Texas is a huge surprise but I think Okie State is just as surprising. In our pre-season preview we picked Okie State DOA and chose them to come in a tie for 5th with Baylor. Phil Steele picked them dead last in the Big 12 South calling it a rebuilding year. ESPN said they would finish in 5th and 7-5.
Ross: The rise of Baylor, the fall of Texas, and the continued (and even greater) success of Oklahoma State have all been pretty remarkable surprises, but I'd have to say the freefall of Texas been the biggest stunner. In hindsight, it wasn't totally crazy to see Baylor and Oklahoma State being good since they each returned an offensive star (RB Kendall Hunter for Okie State, QB Robert Griffin for Baylor), although it would have been nuts to project this much success for them. But Texas slumming it at 4-5 and in real danger of not even making a bowl? That's absurd to even contemplate -- especially after seeing them get so thoroughly and comprehensively beaten by UCLA, Iowa State, Baylor, and Kansas State. None of those losses were fluky in the slightest -- Texas just got completely outplayed. For that to happen with a team with such obvious talent (unless the recruiting services were wildly inaccurate) is mind blowing. Barring an unlikely turnaround, this is going to go down as one of the most sudden, surprising, and inexplicable collapses of a major program in recent history.
Who is the Big 12 Player of the Year so far?
Alex: Taylor Martinez is your PotY. Nebraska would be dead in the water amongst Colorado and Kansas had it not been for his surprise appearance at QB this season.
J Martin: Can I give it to 2 guys if they're on the same team? Statistically, it's Justin Blackmon at Oklahoma State. He's in the top 2 in receptions per game, receiving yards per game, and scoring. The latter of which he's done despite missing a game due to suspension. He makes big plays and he makes them often. However, I'd also have to give credit to his quarterback Brandon Weeden. Someone has to get Blackmon the ball, right? I think Weeden's emergence as a quality spread quarterback has been the biggest factor in OSU's rise from being declared DOA in most preseason publications to a Top 25 team and possible conference champion.
Kevin: This is a toss up between Kendall Hunter (1240 yds, 6.1 ypc, 14 TD) and his QB Brandon Wheedon (leds the Big 12 in passing yds, yds/attempt, TD, QB rating, etc).
Ross: Baylor QB Robert Griffin III. Without him, Baylor's a 2-3 win team rather than being a legitimate conference title contender. He's leading the conference in total yards (416 yards rushing, 2859 yards passing), has accounted for 27 touchdowns, and he's the unquestioned leader of that team. He's been incredible. Oklahoma State has the league leaders in passing (Brandon Weeden), rushing (Kendall Hunter), and receiving (Justin Blackmon), but their combined excellence works against identifying one of them as the singular best player in the league.
What is the most interesting game left on the Big 12 schedule?
J Martin: There are far too many interesting games left on the Big 12 schedule. Can I cheat and give two answers again? As of today, it's Oklahoma State vs. Texas. That's a huge swing game for Texas' bowl hopes. If they win, they're in. They'll easily top FAU the next week. But if they lose...the Texas vs. Texas A&M showdown on Thanksgiving gets bigger than it's been in years, with the Aggies getting the chance to send Texas home for the holidays. There's nothing more interesting than watching a national power fall on it's face (as I have learned the hard way).
Kevin: I've got Oklahoma/Oklahoma State because this is the game that the Big 12 South should come down to. Plus, it's in Stillwater which should make this very very interesting.
Ross: Oklahoma-Oklahoma State. Not only is it the annual "Bedlam" game and a heated rivalry between two top programs that's seen a few upsets in recent years, but it's likely to be the game that decides the Big 12 South race this year. The stakes should be very high for this game, which ought to make it awfully intense. There's also a lot of star power in this game, since you have arguably the Big 12's two best quarterbacks (Weeden and Landry Jones), two best running backs (Hunter and DeMarco Murray), and two best wide receivers (Blackmon and Ryan Broyles). This game has all the makings of a wild shootout between two high-powered, star-laden offenses, which should make for a pretty exciting affair.
Who wins the Big 12 South?
J Martin: I like Oklahoma State. Baylor is having a nice year, but it's hard to take them seriously as a legit title contender. Same with Texas A&M. And after the Sooners' loss to A&M, it's perfectly conceivable that they could slip up against Baylor or Texas Tech and take themselves out of the running before they get to Okie State. Meanwhile, unless Texas can muster another Nebraska-caliber effort this weekend, the Cowboys are playing a one-game season from this point forward. The odds are in their favor.
Kevin: Right now I'm leaning towards Okie State because they have the home-field advantage in the final game. Ask me again next week and the answer could be very different.
Ross: I think Oklahoma State edges Oklahoma on the basis of an easier schedule and home-field advantage in their season-ending clash. Texas is reeling and Kansas is dreadful, which should enable Okie State to get to 6-1. Oklahoma should be able to handle Texas Tech at home, but they've struggled on the road and Baylor will be very tricky. Assuming they get by that game, a season-ending road game against Oklahoma State looks pretty daunting, too. Baylor and Texas A&M are out of the running since Oklahoma State already has head-to-head wins over them and they'd need Okie State to drop TWO more games in their final three -- which doesn't seem likely.
Has Tommy Tuberville's debut season at Texas Tech been a success?
Alex: I say yes as it is hard to gage a coaches success rate over the first season. Texas Tech made a huge mistake when they fired (and not just reprimand) Leech. Tubbs needs his own players for his system and do remember he was on the way out of Auburn before exploding with 2 and 1/2 great seasons. He is holding his own, give him three more years before the axe comes crashing down at a school without any expectations.
J Martin: I think he's mostly succeeded at maintaining the status quo under Mike Leach (win 7-9 games consistently) while avoiding the meltdown that a lot of Tech fans feared when considering Tub's last foray into the spread offense. That was probably the best case scenario for this season.
Kevin: I wouldn't call it a "success" but it's not a failure. Tech should go 2-1 in their last 3 which would put them at 7-5. If he continually posts 7-5 then that's not what Tech wants but if he can build on this season then I think we can look back on it as a success.
Ross: If he can string together three more wins and close out at 8-4, it would be a pretty solid season. Anything less than that would be pretty disappointing. The wins over Baylor and Missouri are nice, but the losses are embarrassing, especially the games against Texas (in light of what they've become) and Iowa State (Tech collapsed in ugly fashion against them). Plus, this was a very vulnerable Big 12 and a favorable schedule for them -- no Nebraska, the worst Texas team in well over a decade, and an Oklahoma team that's good but not great -- so only mustering a 7-5 schedule with that would be pretty lackluster. 8-4 still wouldn't be great, but it would at least be palatable. Still, it's hard to look at this season and think that Mike Leach couldn't have done more -- and possibly led Texas Tech on the breakthrough season that Oklahoma State instead seems to be enjoying.
Alex: By far it is Texas's fall. How many teams go from losing the national championship game to possibly being last in the conference?
J Martin: It has to be Texas' fall. I never bought into the Garrett Gilbert craze, never thought he was going to step in and be an instant superstar after he made a few good throws against Alabama in the BCS title game. I never bought into this idea that Texas was suddenly going to become a pro-style, power running team and not miss a beat on offense despite not having the personnel to do it. And yet I also never thought we'd be here in the 2nd week of November wondering if Texas was even going to make a bowl. That's shocking. With the talent and the coaches that the Longhorns have, they should never, ever, lose 5 games in a year. But here they are, sitting at 4-5, staring down the barrel of two more.
Kevin: Texas is a huge surprise but I think Okie State is just as surprising. In our pre-season preview we picked Okie State DOA and chose them to come in a tie for 5th with Baylor. Phil Steele picked them dead last in the Big 12 South calling it a rebuilding year. ESPN said they would finish in 5th and 7-5.
Ross: The rise of Baylor, the fall of Texas, and the continued (and even greater) success of Oklahoma State have all been pretty remarkable surprises, but I'd have to say the freefall of Texas been the biggest stunner. In hindsight, it wasn't totally crazy to see Baylor and Oklahoma State being good since they each returned an offensive star (RB Kendall Hunter for Okie State, QB Robert Griffin for Baylor), although it would have been nuts to project this much success for them. But Texas slumming it at 4-5 and in real danger of not even making a bowl? That's absurd to even contemplate -- especially after seeing them get so thoroughly and comprehensively beaten by UCLA, Iowa State, Baylor, and Kansas State. None of those losses were fluky in the slightest -- Texas just got completely outplayed. For that to happen with a team with such obvious talent (unless the recruiting services were wildly inaccurate) is mind blowing. Barring an unlikely turnaround, this is going to go down as one of the most sudden, surprising, and inexplicable collapses of a major program in recent history.
Who is the Big 12 Player of the Year so far?
Alex: Taylor Martinez is your PotY. Nebraska would be dead in the water amongst Colorado and Kansas had it not been for his surprise appearance at QB this season.
J Martin: Can I give it to 2 guys if they're on the same team? Statistically, it's Justin Blackmon at Oklahoma State. He's in the top 2 in receptions per game, receiving yards per game, and scoring. The latter of which he's done despite missing a game due to suspension. He makes big plays and he makes them often. However, I'd also have to give credit to his quarterback Brandon Weeden. Someone has to get Blackmon the ball, right? I think Weeden's emergence as a quality spread quarterback has been the biggest factor in OSU's rise from being declared DOA in most preseason publications to a Top 25 team and possible conference champion.
Kevin: This is a toss up between Kendall Hunter (1240 yds, 6.1 ypc, 14 TD) and his QB Brandon Wheedon (leds the Big 12 in passing yds, yds/attempt, TD, QB rating, etc).
Ross: Baylor QB Robert Griffin III. Without him, Baylor's a 2-3 win team rather than being a legitimate conference title contender. He's leading the conference in total yards (416 yards rushing, 2859 yards passing), has accounted for 27 touchdowns, and he's the unquestioned leader of that team. He's been incredible. Oklahoma State has the league leaders in passing (Brandon Weeden), rushing (Kendall Hunter), and receiving (Justin Blackmon), but their combined excellence works against identifying one of them as the singular best player in the league.
What is the most interesting game left on the Big 12 schedule?
J Martin: There are far too many interesting games left on the Big 12 schedule. Can I cheat and give two answers again? As of today, it's Oklahoma State vs. Texas. That's a huge swing game for Texas' bowl hopes. If they win, they're in. They'll easily top FAU the next week. But if they lose...the Texas vs. Texas A&M showdown on Thanksgiving gets bigger than it's been in years, with the Aggies getting the chance to send Texas home for the holidays. There's nothing more interesting than watching a national power fall on it's face (as I have learned the hard way).
Kevin: I've got Oklahoma/Oklahoma State because this is the game that the Big 12 South should come down to. Plus, it's in Stillwater which should make this very very interesting.
Ross: Oklahoma-Oklahoma State. Not only is it the annual "Bedlam" game and a heated rivalry between two top programs that's seen a few upsets in recent years, but it's likely to be the game that decides the Big 12 South race this year. The stakes should be very high for this game, which ought to make it awfully intense. There's also a lot of star power in this game, since you have arguably the Big 12's two best quarterbacks (Weeden and Landry Jones), two best running backs (Hunter and DeMarco Murray), and two best wide receivers (Blackmon and Ryan Broyles). This game has all the makings of a wild shootout between two high-powered, star-laden offenses, which should make for a pretty exciting affair.
Who wins the Big 12 South?
J Martin: I like Oklahoma State. Baylor is having a nice year, but it's hard to take them seriously as a legit title contender. Same with Texas A&M. And after the Sooners' loss to A&M, it's perfectly conceivable that they could slip up against Baylor or Texas Tech and take themselves out of the running before they get to Okie State. Meanwhile, unless Texas can muster another Nebraska-caliber effort this weekend, the Cowboys are playing a one-game season from this point forward. The odds are in their favor.
Kevin: Right now I'm leaning towards Okie State because they have the home-field advantage in the final game. Ask me again next week and the answer could be very different.
Ross: I think Oklahoma State edges Oklahoma on the basis of an easier schedule and home-field advantage in their season-ending clash. Texas is reeling and Kansas is dreadful, which should enable Okie State to get to 6-1. Oklahoma should be able to handle Texas Tech at home, but they've struggled on the road and Baylor will be very tricky. Assuming they get by that game, a season-ending road game against Oklahoma State looks pretty daunting, too. Baylor and Texas A&M are out of the running since Oklahoma State already has head-to-head wins over them and they'd need Okie State to drop TWO more games in their final three -- which doesn't seem likely.
Has Tommy Tuberville's debut season at Texas Tech been a success?
Alex: I say yes as it is hard to gage a coaches success rate over the first season. Texas Tech made a huge mistake when they fired (and not just reprimand) Leech. Tubbs needs his own players for his system and do remember he was on the way out of Auburn before exploding with 2 and 1/2 great seasons. He is holding his own, give him three more years before the axe comes crashing down at a school without any expectations.
J Martin: I think he's mostly succeeded at maintaining the status quo under Mike Leach (win 7-9 games consistently) while avoiding the meltdown that a lot of Tech fans feared when considering Tub's last foray into the spread offense. That was probably the best case scenario for this season.
Kevin: I wouldn't call it a "success" but it's not a failure. Tech should go 2-1 in their last 3 which would put them at 7-5. If he continually posts 7-5 then that's not what Tech wants but if he can build on this season then I think we can look back on it as a success.
Ross: If he can string together three more wins and close out at 8-4, it would be a pretty solid season. Anything less than that would be pretty disappointing. The wins over Baylor and Missouri are nice, but the losses are embarrassing, especially the games against Texas (in light of what they've become) and Iowa State (Tech collapsed in ugly fashion against them). Plus, this was a very vulnerable Big 12 and a favorable schedule for them -- no Nebraska, the worst Texas team in well over a decade, and an Oklahoma team that's good but not great -- so only mustering a 7-5 schedule with that would be pretty lackluster. 8-4 still wouldn't be great, but it would at least be palatable. Still, it's hard to look at this season and think that Mike Leach couldn't have done more -- and possibly led Texas Tech on the breakthrough season that Oklahoma State instead seems to be enjoying.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Pre-Season Preview: Oklahoma State Cowboys
2009 Record: 9-4 (6-2 in Big 12)
2009 Bowl: Cotton Bowl (lost to Ole Miss 21-7)
Final 2009 AP Ranking: received 40 pts putting them at #30
Head Coach: Mike Gundy (36-27 at Oklahoma State, 19-21 in Big 12 Conference games)
Non-Conference Schedule: Washington State (9/4), Troy (9/11), Tulsa (9/18), at Louisiana (10/8)
2009 Offensive Statistics
Scoring: 28.4 points per game (7th in Big 12)
Rushing Yards/Game: 187 (1st in Big 12, 22nd in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 179 (10th in Big 12, 99th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 367 (7th in Big 12)
2009 Defensive Statistics
Scoring: 21.7 points per game (4th in Big 12)
Rushing Yards/Game: 95 (4th in Big 12)
Passing Yards/Game: 236 (8th in Big 12)
Total Yards/Game: 332 (4th in Big 12)
2009 Misc Stats
Turnover Margin: 0.00 per game (7th in Big 12)
Penalties: 63 yards per game (6th in Big 12)
Returning Starters
Offense: 4
Defense: 4
Kicker/Punter: 2
Top Returning Statistical Leaders
Passing: QB Brandon Weeden, Jr (15 of 24 for 248 yds, 4 TD, 1 INT)
Rushing: RB Kendall Hunter, Sr (89 carries for 382 yds, 1 TD, 4.2 ypc, 47 ypg)
Receiving: WR Hubert Aniyam, Jr (42 rec, 515 yds, 3.2 rec/game)
Tackles: SS Markelle Martin, Jr (46)
Sacks: DE Ugo Chinasa, Sr (6.5)
Interceptions: CB Andrew McGee, Sr (1)
2010 Pre-Season Rankings
Athlon Sports: #46
Pre-Snap Read: #69
Sporting News: #64
2010 Pre-Season Big 12 North Prediction:
Athlon Sports: #5
Phil Steele: #6
Bowl Prediction:
Athlon Sports: Texas Bowl (vs. Northwestern)
Last year Oklahoma State opened up their season with a Dez Bryant led win over Georgia. The celebration was short lived as they dropped their next game to Houston and then shortly after that Dez Bryant was ruled ineligible. Despite losing their best player the Cowboys still managed to beat every other Big 12 opponent they played outside of Oklahoma and Texas. Oklahoma State accepted a bid to the Cotton Bowl but lost to Ole Miss in a disappointing outing 21-7. 2009 was supposed to be a coming out party for Oklahoma State but they finished just outside the Top 25 at 9-4 and now are wondering whether they can re-load or will have to re-build. Oklahoma State has the fewest returning starters in the Big 12 and lost 6 of their top 7 tacklers off of their defense. Like we did with our Auburn and Notre Dame previews we sought out a fans perspective on the Cowboys. We turned to a frequent Scout.com message board contributor at the Oklahoma State site GoPokes.com (Scott refers to himself as the "sunshine pumper" of GoPokes.com) to learn more about the 2010 Cowboys. Here is an intro from Scott, a run-down of the first part of the schedule and then some Q&A:
Intro
From my perspective. We have a lot of talent on offense and I think the new style of offense will be humming right along once conference season comes along. Biggest questions on offense are the Oline (replacing all but 1 starter) and receiver. Oklahoma State's biggest issue last year was our receivers getting off blocks. They struggled with that and without Dez drawing the double coverage it showed. That said we have depth at receiver, it is just young. But that gives guys an opportunity to step up.
Defensively, Im really excited about this years team. Yes we lost our linebackers but having Orie Lemon returning from his knee injury should give us good leadership at the linebacker position for the young studs we have signed. I look for our Dline to be improved in Bill Youngs second year as DC. Biggest question mark on defense is secondary where we are thin on depth. That is the one place we cant afford an injury.
Special Teams should be special again. Joe Deforest is a great Special teams coach and this is probably the most talent Oklahoma State has had on campus. It is just unproven.
I think the schedule sets up nicely for Oklahoma State to build momentum. With the lack of belief in OSU from the preseason magazines, as an OSU fan Im hoping opponents take us lightly too.
Schedule Breakdown
Washington State should be improved. This is their 3rd year under their coach. We made great strides in Gundy's 3rd year. They are from the Pac 10 which is a good conference.
Troy is always a good team. They get a lot of talent and they beat us a few years ago.
Tulsa is a scary team. They weren't up to their standards last year because they were young but they are getting a lot of great pub and rightly so. Todd Graham is a very good coach and returns a lot of talent. Plus it's an instate game. Tulsa went into Norman a few years ago and scared a highly ranked Oklahoma team. They wont be scared coming into Stillwater.
Texas A&M is expected to be very good this year and some think could challenge OU and UT for the South. Im glad this game is in Stillwater and Im glad OSU has a week to prepare for it. A&M and OSU always play exciting games.
@ Louisiana This game scares me more than any game of the first five. OSU has seemed to lose one game each season the last few years they shouldnt. This is a Friday night game in Louisiana. KSU lost there last year and it's the first road game with this new team. Plus OSU could be coming off a huge win over a possibly ranked A&M team. This is a classic trap game.
Q&A
What team on the schedule do you want to beat the most?
I think it would have to be OU or Texas. And it is simply because those are the only two teams Gundy hasnt beaten as HC. I really feel OSU has put themselves in a position to be in 3rd behind those two for the future, especially with the new conference. I think we have passed A&M and I think Tech is going to miss Mike Leach more than they realize. The North lost it's strongest team (Nebraska) and I dont see any of those teams competing in the future.
@ Texas Tech would be a close third because OSU has not won in Lubbock since the inception of the Big 12.
Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?
Tough to say but I would guess it would be one of the young receivers who will flourish in the new offense. I cant give you one name because I think a lot of that will sort itself out during August. But look for a redshirt freshman to make a major statement at WR this year.
Who are the top newcomers that can make an impact this year?
Would have to be the linebackers. There is a strong possiblity that Shaun Lewis, Caleb Lavey, and Kris Catlin could all see significant time at LB this year. Also thind Devin Hedgepeth who came in January will have to play big at DB for OSU to be successful.
Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?
It's all about the start. If this inexperienced team can gain some confidence, which I think they will, I think OSU will win 9 games this year. I think OSU beats OU or UT this year. And I feel like OSU has a legit shot at beating Tech in Lubbock. 8 wins would be success in my opinion. All of this barring injury.
Taking Oklahoma State out of the equation, who do you see winning the Big 12 this year?
Would have to go with the winner of the Red River Rivalry. Until someone beats OU or UT and wins a south championship they should be the favorites. I know a lot of people are big on A&M being a sleeper but I just dont think Sherman is the answer. If they lose their QB they are in trouble. OSU saw what losing key players can do to a season last year. Only UT and OU can sustain injuries and still win the title and not even OU could do that last year.
Previous Big 12 Previews:
Iowa State Cyclones
Kansas Jayhawks
Kansas State Wildcats
Missouri Tigers
Oklahoma Sooners
Texas Longhorns
Texas Tech Red Raiders
Next Up: Washington State Cougars
Previous Pre-Season Previews
ACC- Boston College Eagles, Duke Blue Devils, Florida State Seminoles, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Maryland Terrapins, Virginia Cavaliers, Virginia Tech Hokies, Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Big East- Cincinnati Bearcats, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, Syracuse Orange, UConn Huskies, USF Bulls, West Virginia Mountaineers
Big Ten- Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Ohio State Buckeyes, Purdue Boilermakers
C-USA- Houston Cougars, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, UTEP Miners
Independent- Army Black Knights, Navy Midshipmen, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
MAC- Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets
MWC- BYU Cougars, Colorado State Rams, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes
Pac-10- Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, Stanford Cardinal, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies
SEC- Auburn Tigers, Georgia Bulldogs, Kentucky Wildcats, LSU Tigers, Mississippi Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Vanderbilt Commodores
Sun Belt- FIU Golden Panthers, North Texas Mean Green, Troy Trojans
WAC- Boise State Broncos, Fresno State Bulldogs, Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, New Mexico State Aggies
2009 Bowl: Cotton Bowl (lost to Ole Miss 21-7)
Final 2009 AP Ranking: received 40 pts putting them at #30
Head Coach: Mike Gundy (36-27 at Oklahoma State, 19-21 in Big 12 Conference games)
Non-Conference Schedule: Washington State (9/4), Troy (9/11), Tulsa (9/18), at Louisiana (10/8)
2009 Offensive Statistics
Scoring: 28.4 points per game (7th in Big 12)
Rushing Yards/Game: 187 (1st in Big 12, 22nd in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 179 (10th in Big 12, 99th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 367 (7th in Big 12)
2009 Defensive Statistics
Scoring: 21.7 points per game (4th in Big 12)
Rushing Yards/Game: 95 (4th in Big 12)
Passing Yards/Game: 236 (8th in Big 12)
Total Yards/Game: 332 (4th in Big 12)
2009 Misc Stats
Turnover Margin: 0.00 per game (7th in Big 12)
Penalties: 63 yards per game (6th in Big 12)
Returning Starters
Offense: 4
Defense: 4
Kicker/Punter: 2
Top Returning Statistical Leaders
Passing: QB Brandon Weeden, Jr (15 of 24 for 248 yds, 4 TD, 1 INT)
Rushing: RB Kendall Hunter, Sr (89 carries for 382 yds, 1 TD, 4.2 ypc, 47 ypg)
Receiving: WR Hubert Aniyam, Jr (42 rec, 515 yds, 3.2 rec/game)
Tackles: SS Markelle Martin, Jr (46)
Sacks: DE Ugo Chinasa, Sr (6.5)
Interceptions: CB Andrew McGee, Sr (1)
2010 Pre-Season Rankings
Athlon Sports: #46
Pre-Snap Read: #69
Sporting News: #64
2010 Pre-Season Big 12 North Prediction:
Athlon Sports: #5
Phil Steele: #6
Bowl Prediction:
Athlon Sports: Texas Bowl (vs. Northwestern)
Last year Oklahoma State opened up their season with a Dez Bryant led win over Georgia. The celebration was short lived as they dropped their next game to Houston and then shortly after that Dez Bryant was ruled ineligible. Despite losing their best player the Cowboys still managed to beat every other Big 12 opponent they played outside of Oklahoma and Texas. Oklahoma State accepted a bid to the Cotton Bowl but lost to Ole Miss in a disappointing outing 21-7. 2009 was supposed to be a coming out party for Oklahoma State but they finished just outside the Top 25 at 9-4 and now are wondering whether they can re-load or will have to re-build. Oklahoma State has the fewest returning starters in the Big 12 and lost 6 of their top 7 tacklers off of their defense. Like we did with our Auburn and Notre Dame previews we sought out a fans perspective on the Cowboys. We turned to a frequent Scout.com message board contributor at the Oklahoma State site GoPokes.com (Scott refers to himself as the "sunshine pumper" of GoPokes.com) to learn more about the 2010 Cowboys. Here is an intro from Scott, a run-down of the first part of the schedule and then some Q&A:
Intro
From my perspective. We have a lot of talent on offense and I think the new style of offense will be humming right along once conference season comes along. Biggest questions on offense are the Oline (replacing all but 1 starter) and receiver. Oklahoma State's biggest issue last year was our receivers getting off blocks. They struggled with that and without Dez drawing the double coverage it showed. That said we have depth at receiver, it is just young. But that gives guys an opportunity to step up.
Defensively, Im really excited about this years team. Yes we lost our linebackers but having Orie Lemon returning from his knee injury should give us good leadership at the linebacker position for the young studs we have signed. I look for our Dline to be improved in Bill Youngs second year as DC. Biggest question mark on defense is secondary where we are thin on depth. That is the one place we cant afford an injury.
Special Teams should be special again. Joe Deforest is a great Special teams coach and this is probably the most talent Oklahoma State has had on campus. It is just unproven.
I think the schedule sets up nicely for Oklahoma State to build momentum. With the lack of belief in OSU from the preseason magazines, as an OSU fan Im hoping opponents take us lightly too.
Schedule Breakdown
Washington State should be improved. This is their 3rd year under their coach. We made great strides in Gundy's 3rd year. They are from the Pac 10 which is a good conference.
Troy is always a good team. They get a lot of talent and they beat us a few years ago.
Tulsa is a scary team. They weren't up to their standards last year because they were young but they are getting a lot of great pub and rightly so. Todd Graham is a very good coach and returns a lot of talent. Plus it's an instate game. Tulsa went into Norman a few years ago and scared a highly ranked Oklahoma team. They wont be scared coming into Stillwater.
Texas A&M is expected to be very good this year and some think could challenge OU and UT for the South. Im glad this game is in Stillwater and Im glad OSU has a week to prepare for it. A&M and OSU always play exciting games.
@ Louisiana This game scares me more than any game of the first five. OSU has seemed to lose one game each season the last few years they shouldnt. This is a Friday night game in Louisiana. KSU lost there last year and it's the first road game with this new team. Plus OSU could be coming off a huge win over a possibly ranked A&M team. This is a classic trap game.
Q&A
What team on the schedule do you want to beat the most?
I think it would have to be OU or Texas. And it is simply because those are the only two teams Gundy hasnt beaten as HC. I really feel OSU has put themselves in a position to be in 3rd behind those two for the future, especially with the new conference. I think we have passed A&M and I think Tech is going to miss Mike Leach more than they realize. The North lost it's strongest team (Nebraska) and I dont see any of those teams competing in the future.
@ Texas Tech would be a close third because OSU has not won in Lubbock since the inception of the Big 12.
Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?
Tough to say but I would guess it would be one of the young receivers who will flourish in the new offense. I cant give you one name because I think a lot of that will sort itself out during August. But look for a redshirt freshman to make a major statement at WR this year.
Who are the top newcomers that can make an impact this year?
Would have to be the linebackers. There is a strong possiblity that Shaun Lewis, Caleb Lavey, and Kris Catlin could all see significant time at LB this year. Also thind Devin Hedgepeth who came in January will have to play big at DB for OSU to be successful.
Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?
It's all about the start. If this inexperienced team can gain some confidence, which I think they will, I think OSU will win 9 games this year. I think OSU beats OU or UT this year. And I feel like OSU has a legit shot at beating Tech in Lubbock. 8 wins would be success in my opinion. All of this barring injury.
Taking Oklahoma State out of the equation, who do you see winning the Big 12 this year?
Would have to go with the winner of the Red River Rivalry. Until someone beats OU or UT and wins a south championship they should be the favorites. I know a lot of people are big on A&M being a sleeper but I just dont think Sherman is the answer. If they lose their QB they are in trouble. OSU saw what losing key players can do to a season last year. Only UT and OU can sustain injuries and still win the title and not even OU could do that last year.
Previous Big 12 Previews:
Iowa State Cyclones
Kansas Jayhawks
Kansas State Wildcats
Missouri Tigers
Oklahoma Sooners
Texas Longhorns
Texas Tech Red Raiders
Next Up: Washington State Cougars
Previous Pre-Season Previews
ACC- Boston College Eagles, Duke Blue Devils, Florida State Seminoles, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Maryland Terrapins, Virginia Cavaliers, Virginia Tech Hokies, Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Big East- Cincinnati Bearcats, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, Syracuse Orange, UConn Huskies, USF Bulls, West Virginia Mountaineers
Big Ten- Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Ohio State Buckeyes, Purdue Boilermakers
C-USA- Houston Cougars, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, UTEP Miners
Independent- Army Black Knights, Navy Midshipmen, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
MAC- Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets
MWC- BYU Cougars, Colorado State Rams, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes
Pac-10- Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, Stanford Cardinal, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies
SEC- Auburn Tigers, Georgia Bulldogs, Kentucky Wildcats, LSU Tigers, Mississippi Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Vanderbilt Commodores
Sun Belt- FIU Golden Panthers, North Texas Mean Green, Troy Trojans
WAC- Boise State Broncos, Fresno State Bulldogs, Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, New Mexico State Aggies
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