A Message to All of LeBron's Haters

Even with the star power of “Ocean’s Thirteen” and the hype of “The Dark Knight,” the Miami Heat (6-4) are performing with the mediocrity of “Valentine’s Day.” The Celtics, or rather “The Expendables,” have placed the Heat in little brother status after two convincing victories, and there is talk of enough drama within the organization to please a scriptwriter for the OC. Much of this has been placed on the back of LeBron James, the ‘King,’ (or Queen as I have seen to be his popular Miami nickname) but is it fair? Ten games into the season, most are writing LeBron James and the Heat off like the cast of “The Perfect Storm.” Will this ‘storm’ happen to reach South Beach come April?

I am sure most of you reading this are familiar with the controversial, downright strange LeBron/Nike commercial ‘What Should I Do?.’ Well, what should LeBron James do? People need to understand that the man is a human being that is paid to play a sport. While commitment to a team and a fanbase is necessary during the season and while under contract, James exercised his free agency to look at other teams which is completely understandable. Although teams were blatantly pathetic in their attempts to ‘court the King’ and James himself was pathetic by hosting a selection show, one cannot despise a man for taking the opportunity of a lifetime.

Through James seven year drought with Cleveland, he had reached the finals only once. That year left the Cavaliers to fall to a much older, experienced San Antonio Spurs team. As Orlando and Boston grew and developed in the East, Cleveland never surrounded James with a supporting cast valuable enough to win a championship. Antawn Jamison, Shaquille O’Neal, and various other transfers were never enough to overcome or handle a three-point bonanza with Dwight Howard in the paint or an aging veteran squad with a young superstar at the point in Rajon Rondo. If they had made it to the NBA Championship series, one would highly doubt that they would have enough firepower to handle the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Miami Heat opportunity was one that could not be missed. Cleveland made a personal episode of Family Guy involving him and his teammates. Chicago redundantly sized him up to Michael Jordan by showing him empty championship ring boxes and giving him Air Jordans and asking if he could fill the shoes. The Knicks promised the glamour of New York and Amare Stoudemire , but not much else. The other Los Angeles team, the Clippers, and the New Jersey Nets were involved in a catfight over not being the team with the least chance to snag James. Then, there was a legitimate offer. The Miami Heat came to James and offered Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, and cap room.

Humanity was given or evolved, whichever you believe, the ability to reason. Although there had to be a tugging sense of home in Cleveland, the chance to play alongside two of the decade’s best players in a stable program could not be passed. Having played alongside Wade and Bosh in USA’s gold run in Beijing, some chemistry was there. Add rebounding machine Udonis Haslem, James’ close friend Zydrunas Ilgauskus, and two valuable assets in Eddie House and Jerry Stackhouse, and a reliable team presents itself. Chemistry needs a while to grow and prosper, and the environment in Miami promotes it.

To all of those who still believe Lebron James to be a cheap sellout, do you feel the same about Nick Saban? Saban did what he thought was best by leaving LSU to go to the NFL ultimately to leave that tenure early to return to college football at the University of Alabama. Whether his decisions and intentions were personal or not, the truth of the matter is money and opportunity have a say in the game. The people at the top of the game or in the game are human at their core, and, despite how big the commitment, pride, or honor of a program is, one cannot blame an athlete for being human and having goals of their own.

Do not count the Heat out. Their names will be around come season’s end. This team may not win it all, but, if they do, they will be-in my eyes-the most outstanding team of the last decade. They have the athletes to be the most outstanding team, but having the chemistry and determination to hurdle all of the criticism and negativity thrown their way is the ultimate obstacle. What should you do Lebron? You should fulfill your desire to bring a team a championship, and the Heat have the parts necessary to help.

I Would Use a Clever Cam Newton Line, But They Have All Been Taken

How many unnamed sources does it take to unscrew a Heisman frontrunner? One could not complete the task. Two could not help, and, from there, they began to come in heaps.

Cam Newton, the unlikely face of college football, has brought to light a growing problem in sports, people’s disdain for certain success, and the case for an undetermined Heisman.

However this case finalizes, one thing is for certain. Cam Newton is by far the best player in college football this season. Now that I have pleased the Auburn fans that may be reading this, let me also say that Auburn is a .500 team at best without Newton.

I had recently dismissed this idea saying that Auburn still has a fair front seven defensively, as well as a good set of skill players. Still, the more Auburn plays; the more evident it becomes that Cam Newton is this team.

Although Dyer and McCalleb provide a solid, balanced running attack, their yards are due largely in fact to zone read plays, and Newton runs it like a genius. As confused as the CBS cameramen are at covering the ballcarrier, defenses look the same. Cover the run, and Newton will ultimately beat you with pinpoint accuracy in the passing game, which has been ever-evolving since the beginning of the season.

So let’s take a look at the three spheres in this situation.

The Growing Problem In Sports

Over the last several years, college athletes and agents have had a very promiscuous relationship. It is promiscuous in the sense of monetary gifts and other gifts that include cars, houses, and other wants.

As the situation with agents has become more prevalent, colleges have now been thrown into the mix through accusations of boosters and athletic administration paying players as well.

The Cam Newton situation grew from its roots in Starkville, Mississippi, where all seemed ripe for the Bulldogs to nab Newton out of Blinn Junion College in Texas. All of the sudden, despite the infamous picture of Cam Newton displaying the illustrious Magic Johnson smile while ringing the infamous Miss. State cowbell, Newton’s plans changed to Auburn.

Now, a year in advance, facts are finally being leaked to the public. Kenny Rogers, a former football player for Miss. State stated that Cecil Newton, Cam’s father and the stated ‘decision maker’ when it came to college, stated that it would take between $100,000 and $180,000 to convince his son to sign a scholarship to Miss. State. Also, Cecil Newton claimed that his son never knew about the monetary exchange.

The story takes a very vague and twisted path as Kenny Rogers, John Bond, and Bill Bell, all boosters for the university, were all involved in a seemingly three way hit-and-run attack to obtain Cam Newton with each of them explaining their own similar but different sides of the story.

One thing is for certain, the FBI is on the case as of now, and the public can expect some kind of hard evidence or no evidence in the future.

Although it may be a supposedly common theme in college football, the problem is growing or rather the public is not aware of the severity of the problem. If Cam Newton did not have any knowledge of the events if true (which I find hard to believe), Cecil Newton is also the figurehead for a problem in parenthood. What parent sells their child knowing that the repercussions could be damaging to his/her career?

Disdain for Certain Success

One question that really bothers me is why are these allegations coming out so late into the football season and Heisman race as well. Why were they not reported during the summer, or perhaps at the beginning of the year?

Rumor has it that the NCAA has been checking in on Cam Newton and his payments like every other athlete in the country, but they did not have enough to show any concrete evidence. I think that the pay-to-play deal would have never been released had Cam Newton and the Auburn Tigers had a mediocre season that seemed present after the close victories to Miss. State, Clemson, and South Carolina.

Personally, I believe nothing would have ever been presented because of the danger that this situation presents to Miss. State. If Cam Newton goes down, Miss. State also has a chance to fall to NCAA violations.

Furthermore, the University of Florida, Newton’s old school, released information saying that Cam Newton had placed his name on another student’s paper as well as purchased a paper off the Internet when asked to replace the original. Following a stolen laptop charge and an ‘alleged’ meeting with Student Council, Newton transferred to Blinn College and avoided a possible expulsion from Florida.

Florida and Mississippi State both would have most likely never released this information if the Tigers were 6-5 right now. While Mississippi State’s allegations could have serious consequences, Florida seems to be the bitter team who is just out to ruin the reputation of Cam Newton. Through ‘character assassination,’ Florida’s allegations hold no true meaning as in the future of Cam Newton and NCAA violations.

Case for an Undetermined Heisman

Then, there is the question of the Heisman. Clearly the frontrunner in this year’s campaign, Newton now has the shadow of these allegations and the ghost of Reggie Bush breathing down his neck.

Following the removal of Reggie Bush’s Heisman trophy, this is the first incident that involves suspected allegations during the Heisman run. The voters have stated that they would still vote for Cam Newton if the voting was held today, but with more weeks to come, this mindset may change if further evidence is produced.

Newton has proved on the field that he is worthy of the Heisman, but these off the field issues may keep him from winning the trophy. It is strange considering that the trophy is designated to the best player in college football.

Conclusion

That is basically the Cam Newton situation in a nutshell to the best of my knowledge and research.

Honestly, Auburn is stuck between a rock and a hard place. The question at hand is would Auburn rather risk a national championship this year or program stability down the road.

That question will be determined by whether or not Cam Newton is, forgive the redundant pun, ‘sCam’ Newton.

Big Play Bama

On a game fitting to be played on the thirteenth of the month, Mark Ingram caught a screen for a 78 yard touchdown while Julio Jones ran the ball for a 56 yard touchdown. By the end of the game, Ingram out caught Jones while Jones outrushed Ingram.

This was much to the enjoyment of Nick Saban who has preached how the offense needed to use its skill and experience to exploit big plays.

Saban said after the game, “That's what we want to do. We've got some guys that can make explosive plays and we want to put the ball in their hands so that they have an opportunity to do that. We made some that were really big in this game."

Besides Ingram and Jones, Marquis Maze had two big plays on the night. One was a beautiful pitch and run down the sideline in which Maze gracefully dodged two defenders before sneaking into the endzone. His most spectacular play, the 81 yard punt return late in the second half, was called back due to a block in the back.

This play left Ingram to prove himself as an explosive skill player as he contributed his long touchdown on the next play.

Greg McElroy was consistent on the night going 12 for 18 with 2 TDs and 1 poor INT, but he still possesses that steady game-managerial flow to his game. AJ McCarron came in for mop-up duty and looked promising for Alabama’s future despite making a poor choice late in the fourth quarter by not throwing the ball away and sailing it into the midst of three Miss. State defenders. Following one of the harsher encounters that I have seen between a player and Saban, I expect McCarron learned to throw the ball away next time.

Still, the weakness of the offense lies in the offensive line. Barrett Jones left the game early, and DJ Fluker is not the healthy player he was at the beginning of the year. Holes were hard few and far between as a stout Miss. State front seven contained Ingram to 2.9 yards per carry.

Defensively, Alabama possesses a gem in Robert Lester. One of the most exciting players to watch, Lester came away with two interceptions in the game which placed his season total at seven which leads the SEC and is among the top in the nation. Besides his great play, the defense was surprisingly consistent.

Special Teams played well as Jeremy Shelley nailed both of his field goals and Cade Foster booted a 45 yard field goal which would have been good from upwards of 50. Maze and the return team, besides the untimely block in the back, were exceptionally well. Maze reminded the stadium of Javier Arenas through his vision and acceleration in the seams of coverage.

Going forward and looking over Georgia State, Alabama needed this game to prepare for Auburn. Auburn’s defense is known to give up big plays, especially in the secondary. With Jones and Maze playing the way they did in Saturday’s game, Auburn will have to key in on them come next Friday.

Throughout the post game interviews, multiple Alabama players spoke about finding their identity in this game. I am sure the Alabama faithful would have loved some identity earlier in the year, but it truly is better late than ever, especially with the potential number one team in the nation and your hated rival coming into town within the next two weeks.

It Must Be in the Grass

The sight was all too promising. The yardage was all too unattainable. The situation was right down Les Miles’ alley. With that childish, devilish smirk on his face, Les Miles had faith in a troublesome situation.

The chains read third down and thirteen. On the previous play, Jordan Jefferson had been knocked out of the drive due to a vicious hit, and in comes Jarrett Lee. His path to the situation has been anything but smooth. The one-time dream prospect for LSU changed from prophetical to apocalyptical in a matter of games. At the end of the 2008 season, Lee had completed almost as many touchdown passes to opposing teams compared to his own team.

The only form of redemption was through clean-up duty for the ‘new’ prophecy, Jordan Jefferson. Through the first eight games of the 2010 season, Lee was on the path to redemption by being somewhat of a saving grace for a one touchdown to every four interceptions Jefferson.

Although the offense was still abysmal, SEC fans have a short memory. As Lee took the snap, Russell Shepard raced down the sidelines and past Alabama cornerback DeMarcus Milliner to free himself from a sloppy Alabama secondary zone/man combination.

Redemption has never been so wide open. As Lee tossed the ball into arms of Shepard, the most productive receiver of the day, the LSU fans were back on his side, and all hope of a repeat national championship for the Alabama Crimson Tide faded with the sunset in Baton Rouge.

Also fading throughout the day was the Alabama secondary. The saying is that you are only as strong as your weakest link, and the Tide proved that over and over.

Coming into the game, one expected the Alabama defense to shut down a weak LSU offense. Jordan Jefferson had only completed fifty percent of his passes and had not thrown a touchdown pass since the season opener against a depleted North Carolina squad. Jarrett Lee had not been much better, only throwing two touchdowns on the year.

Considering how well Auburn’s ‘cute’ secondary did against LSU, Mark Barron and company seemed prime for some turnovers and some big hits. At the end of the day, the Jefferson/Lee combination combined to go 14/20 for 208 yards and one touchdown. For an LSU fan, that is the equivalent of watching Ryan Mallett go for 500 yards against an FCS school.

It was not that the two quarterbacks played beyond their character as Stephen Garcia did in the South Carolina game. Honestly, the secondary looked confused, out of position, and unmotivated. After some missed tackles, assignments, and interceptions, I am sure the squad will go through some fire at practice before this week’s game against Mississippi State.

As far as the defensive line and linebackers are concerned, they played well. Adequate pressure was applied to Jefferson as he was smothered as soon as he released the ball a majority of the time. Although LSU rushed for 225 yards, it is not as bothersome considering they carried the ball a total of 45 times.

On the opposite side of the ball, Alabama is also as strong as its weakest link. The offensive line has been deteriorating all season. Everyone wants to point the finger at Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson, but it is hard to manage five to ten yards when three defenders are upon you at the line of scrimmage.

Thankfully, Alabama does have a strong running tandem that can manage that task as Ingram and Richardson both made impressive five to ten yard runs with multiple broken tackles.

The pocket protection was reliable until late in the second half when the LSU defense seemed to be pressuring McElroy more and more with each play until the bottom dropped. The play was all too reminiscent of the ’07 Alabama/LSU game where Chad Jones forced a fumble from John Parker Wilson late in the game to seal the win for LSU. As history wrote, the same fate occurred.

With all of the weak links that Alabama had in Saturday’s game, the deciding factor of the game was on the other sideline.
Even though he may live off thirteen men on the field, incomprehensible post game wordplay, and literal vegetation from the earth as one of his food groups, Les Miles is one of the best coaches in the game.

Both of his fourth down play calls were drawn to perfection, and he was smart enough to use a timeout to avoid what could have been a disastrous fake field goal. He does live and die off of those plays, and they can make him look brilliant or idiotic. However, he is one of the best coaches in football.

Most of you reading this article are probably shaking your heads and possibly cursing at what I just wrote, but ask yourself this.

Would you rather have a conservative coach that goes against what the players would love to do most of the time to conserve his perceived football sanity, or would you rather have a crazy, grass-eating lunatic that empowers his players to play for those one or two game-changing plays?

Do not get me wrong. I would definitely prefer Saban over Miles any day of the week, but the faith that Miles puts in his team is ultimately what wins the games. What Miles has found is a formula to overcome any team, including his own, by keeping it close and keeping the faith.

So, it appears that Death Valley has its own story of faith and redemption in hand. Jarrett Lee, Jordan Jefferson, and Les Miles, enjoy the storybook ending. I am predicting a sequel that contains its own redemption next year.

BCS Breakdown Week 10: Lost?

Three weeks into the BCS polls, there have been three different number one teams. Three different conferences have felt the pride of fostering the number one team, and three potential ‘BCS Busters’ are knocking on the door, along with a strong one-loss team.

It is a seemingly endless game of leap-frog with teams shuffling backwards and forwards due to the single fact of the games played that week. Auburn and Oregon both won. Oregon jumps over because of the strength of their game. Boise State and TCU both won. TCU jumps Boise because of reasons unknown to man. Utah jumps Alabama because of the sole fact of being an undefeated team.

With so many potential plots, characters, and interpretations that would even leave Lost writers jealous, the only place where outcomes are tangible are within the imagination. There may be no islands, shadow creatures, or alternate universes, but one can only imagine what this ‘omniscient’ BCS beast will throw upon the football universe next.
The rankings this week are:

1. Oregon
2. Auburn
3. TCU
4. Boise State
5. Utah
6. Alabama
7. Nebraska
8. Oklahoma
9. Wisconsin
10. LSU

Potential Outcomes

The Optimistic BCS

The easiest, least controversial outcome would be both Oregon and Auburn winning out for the remainder of the year. Then, there would be little debate, as last year, with the only two remaining BCS-conference teams playing in the championship game.

As much as the college football analysts, voters, and computer code would like to see that happen, the chances are very slim. Oregon has #15 Arizona at home, and a potential slip-up game on the road against California. Also, do not count out a feisty Oregon State team that breeds off of their hatred for the ducks.

Auburn has a revamped Georgia team at home which could possibly be dangerous. Of course, everyone is looking ahead to the potential winner-takes-all Iron Bowl that may include conference and national championship implications.

The Pessimistic BCS

The less favorable, more controversial outcome would be both Oregon and Alabama winning out along with two of the three non-BCS teams. Then, the BCS is left with the decision that could ultimately be its demise.

If Alabama wins out, they will have played #10 LSU, #20 Mississippi State, #2 Auburn, and, most likely, #19 South Carolina in the SEC Championship game.

Group that together with then ranked #18 Penn State, #10 Arkansas, and #7 Florida, and Alabama has played the same amount of ranked teams as TCU, Boise State, and Utah have and will have played combined.

So, the decision rests on whether a program with a stronger schedule and more prestige shall overcome an undefeated team.

The Apocalyptic BCS

The worst, most controversial, one in a million outcome would be both Auburn and Oregon losing and two non-BCS teams controlling one and two.

With one loss Alabama, Oklahoma, Stanford, and Ohio State possibly breathing down the BCS-buster’s necks, the BCS will ultimately face its demise. There will be controversy no matter the outcome.

TCU versus Boise State would be argued as bad for football, ratings, and the schedule of stronger teams. Alabama versus Boise State would leave TCU in an uproar as well as a strong one loss BCS team. Alabama versus Nebraska would continue the argument for the non-qualifying teams.

Conclusion

To the omniscient BCS, football gods, or whoever is out there, tread carefully. Maybe you planned a revolution of some kind, but the time is near. Depending on how this postseason shapes up, your look for the ‘perfect’ system is most likely going to be dissected and scrutinized.

In the end, it may be the best moving forward, but it has been tyrannizing us as fans for years now.

Top Five Matchups of This Weekend

5. Georgia Tech (5-3) vs. #22 Virginia Tech (6-2)

After losing the first two games of the season to underdog Boise State and FCS James Madison, the Hokies have rebounded well by going 4-0 in ACC play and are chasing down a title bid. Virginia Tech has relied on the heavy passing/running combination of Tyrod Taylor who has thrown for 1062 yards and rushed for 527. On the other hand, Georgia Tech is desperately hanging on to their ACC championship hopes. With their number one rushing attack and triple option threat,
expect a close game in primetime on Thursday night.

My pick: Georgia Tech surprises Virginia Tech early and hangs on to the lead. Georgia Tech-31 Virginia Tech-27

4. #15 Arizona (7-1) vs. #13 Stanford (7-1)
Both teams are ranked in the top seven for points scored. With both teams still hoping for a Pac-10 title, expect a high-powered offensive attack from both sides. I believe the game will come down to the arms of both Arizona’s Nick Foles and
Stanford’s Andrew Luck. This will be a shootout that comes down to one or two key defensive plays.

My pick: Stanford makes those one or two defensive plays to win a barn-burner. Arizona-45 Stanford-51

3. #18 Arkansas (6-2) vs. #19 South Carolina (6-2)

South Carolina controls their own destiny in the SEC East, but a win over SEC West foe Arkansas will definitely strengthen their morale heading into the showdown with Florida. South Carolina can score points if Stephen Garcia can get the ball to his talented receivers such as Alshon Jeffery. Expect Marcus Lattimore to have a big game against a weaker Arkansas defense. On the other hand, the strength of the Arkansas passing game including Ryan Mallett, Greg Childs, and Joe Adams can overcome their defense.

My pick: Ryan Mallett and company escape Columbia with a game-winning drive in the fourth quarter. Arkansas-40 South Carolina-38

2. #3 TCU (9-0) vs. #5 Utah (8-0)

The battle of unbeaten non-BCS conference teams may decide who plays in the national championship game. With TCU jumping Boise State this week, TCU can further solidify themselves in the chase with a win while Utah benefits as well if they win. TCU boasts the number one defense in the nation, only allowing 8.7 points per game. They are also solid on the offensive side under the direction of experienced quarterback Andy Dalton. Utah is also in the top ten in points allowed as well as points scored. This is a very even game on paper, but TCU seems to be the better team to me.

My pick: Close at first, TCU pulls away in the second half. TCU-27 Utah-14

1. #6 Alabama (7-1) vs. #10 LSU (7-1)

With both teams in dire need of a win, this rivalry will be more intense than it has been in recent years. Alabama still controls their own destiny, while LSU could use some major help if they plan on reaching the SEC championship game. The big story will be Alabama’s offensive line against LSU’s strong defensive front. Everyone knows of Alabama’s plethora of skill players, but the line is easily the weakest link. On the other side, LSU’s defensive line is unarguably their strongest aspect. If Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson are contained, Greg McElroy and the receiving corps will have to cover as they tried in the South Carolina game. Expect LSU to be held on offense by a strong Alabama defense. The quarterback combination of Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee has struggled as of late which helps a younger Alabama secondary. Alabama seems to be the strongest team, but, at night in Baton Rouge, a Les Miles LSU team can do anything.

My pick: Alabama jumps to an early lead and holds a resurging second half Tiger team. Alabama-24 LSU-20

A Return to Form

As the lighters flashed and the smoke rose upon the night air in Knoxville, Tuscaloosa and countless other areas, one could finally feel content about the Alabama team that took the field.

It may be hard to feel content about the schedule ahead which features ranked LSU, Mississippi State and Auburn. But it is a hell of a lot more content than the feeling following the South Carolina and Ole Miss games.

The high-caliber athletes are in place. The coaching is in place. The prestige and tradition are in place. Finally, it seemed as though the motivation and drive came back into place during the second half of Saturday’s game.

The opponent was browbeaten Tennessee, in which coach Derrick Dooley later likened to the Germany during the Allies attack of Normandy saying:

“Right now we’re like the Germans in World War II,” Dooley said. “Here comes the boats, they’re coming. You have the binoculars, and it’s like, ‘Oh, my God, the invasion is coming.’ ”

However weak or inexperienced Tennessee may be, there were a multitude of positives to gain from this game. Offensively, it was obvious to anyone who had eyes on the game that this was the explosive offense hyped during the preseason and visible during the first few games of the year.

Ingram and Richardson combined for 207 yards and three touchdowns with Ingram garnering most of the touchdowns (2) and Richardson garnering most of the yards (119). Both were finding holes and gaining yards after contact. Ingram’s red zone run that included pushing the pile five to seven yards was extremely reminiscent of his Heisman capability.

A huge component of the revamped running attack is due to a Fluker-less line stepping up to the task and playing as the stereotypical hard-nosed Alabama line. DJ Fluker with his injured groin could have run through the hole that Richardson burst through for his touchdown. Besides the pressure on Greg McElroy first half, there were mostly improvements with the line and few complaints.

Greg McElroy stayed in the spotlight as the one of the offense’s main weapons over the past weeks going 21-32 for 264 yards. Having been criticized for holding the ball too long in the last couple of weeks and straying away from the pocket, he looked calm, cool and collected while dropping in the pocket and delivering quick, catchable balls.

Then, there is Julio Jones.

Did he even have hand surgery? After 12 receptions, 221 yards and a multitude of extraordinary catches, Julio finally seemed to be the Julio he was recruited to be. Of course, everyone knew of his strength and size, but everyone really saw his big play ability through several deep passes and one incredible catch by the goal line.

Defensively, besides the 59-yard touchdown run by Tauren Poole and giving up 117 yards, they played solid. This was the first time that an Alabama defense has surrendered over 100 rushing yards to an opponent since BenJarvus Green-Ellis of Ole Miss ran for 131 in 2007.

DeMarcus Milliner and LSU-transfer Phelon Jones rose to the challenge and played strong in the secondary. Also, the Tide’s patented red zone defense from the first half of the season returned as they were able to supply pressure to Matt Simms, and Robert Lester gained his fifth interception of the year which is tied for the most in the FBS.

Moving forward, this was the best possible scenario for Alabama. The confidence has returned going into the bye-week, and one can only imagine what Nick Saban is preparing for the LSU Tigers that wait on the tail end of it.

Top Five Matchups of This Weekend

5. #1 Auburn (8-0) vs. Ole Miss (3-4)

On the back of Cam Newton, the Auburn Tigers are ranked number one for the first time in BCS history. After playing South Carolina, Arkansas and LSU, the Tigers look prime for a run at both the SEC and National Championships. However, Auburn played all three of these teams at home. Although it is Ole Miss, Jeremiah Masoli rebounded against a poor Arkansas defense last week going 21/36 for 327 yards and 3 touchdowns. With the weaknesses in Auburn’s secondary, expect this game to possibly be a shootout especially on the road. Everyone knows what has happened to number one over the past three weeks, so do not count Ole Miss out.

My Pick: Auburn wins, but the score is within two touchdowns. Auburn-41 Ole Miss-30

4. Kentucky (4-4) vs. #21 Miss. State (6-2)

It is hard to believe what Dan Mullen has done with this Mississippi State program. From the depths of the SEC, he has brought them out and into contention talk in the SEC West. Living and dying off of their revamped defense, Miss. State faces their first true test as a ranked team this Saturday. Kentucky can have an explosive offensive attack, and expect this game to be an exciting contest of the Kentucky offense against the Miss. State defense.

My Pick: Kentucky’s offense overcomes a strong Miss. State defense to win. Kentucky-24 Miss. State-14

3. #14 Nebraska (6-1) vs. #6 Missouri (7-0)

The spread offense led by Junior quarterback Blaine Gabbert proved to be too much for a shaky Oklahoma defense last week. However, the defense was the big standout in the game forcing Landry Jones to throw two key interceptions. This week is a different story. Nebraska, on a run of vengeance after the loss to Texas, has its eyes set on the Big 12 championship. Expect a shootout, but it is hard to win a shootout when facing Taylor Martinez, Roy Helu Jr., and the fifth strongest running attack in the nation.

My Pick: It will be a shootout, but Nebraska’s talent and depth will overcome. Nebraska-54 Missouri-42

2. #5 Michigan State (8-0) vs. #18 Iowa (5-2)

The running back tandem of Baker and Bell for Michigan State have amassed over 1300 rushing yards on the year while quarterback, Kirk Cousins, has delivered an impressive 2000 yards in the air. The problem is that Iowa’s defense is 11th in the country in points allowed only giving up 15.7 points per game. When weighing the team’s weaknesses, Iowa’s offense is much stronger than Michigan State’s defense.

My Pick: Iowa overcomes last week’s lost to Wisconsin and poor clock management by driving down the field and kicking the game winning field goal against Michigan State. Iowa-17 Michigan State-14

1.#2 Oregon (8-0) vs. USC (5-2)

The Coliseum is a hard place for anyone to go and win. Well, the Oregon Ducks have not known hard the whole year. Besides the first half against Stanford, the Ducks have repeatedly and methodically scored and scored and scored. Averaging 55.1 points per game, expect the Ducks to put up numbers. However, the Trojans have only lost two games, and both were within five points to good teams. Matt Barkley has been tearing defenses apart as of late and expect the Trojans to score as well.

My Pick: The Ducks overcome a slow start in a hostile environment to beat the Trojans. Oregon-42 USC-35

Mid-Season Heisman Report

We are at that point in the season where the Heisman race starts to take form, and this may be the most perplexing Heisman race of the last decade. A Terrelle Pryor-esque quarterback in Auburn, a pint-sized track star taking the snaps in Michigan, and an explosive running back in Eugene, Oregon, have been receiving most of the media attention. They have actually managed to overshadow the returning Heisman winner, Mark Ingram, and Terrelle Pryor himself.
Here are my top five candidates for Heisman:

1. Cam Newton QB/Auburn (Passing: 1278 YDS, 13 TDs, 5 INT; Rushing: 860 YDS, 12 TDS)

With the schedule that presents itself, it is Cam Newton’s Heisman race to lose. Looking ahead at games against LSU, Alabama, and possibly an SEC Championship game, it is either make or break for Newton. So far, it has only been make as Newton continues to be the one component that compels Auburn to victory. Defenses cannot figure out the Terrelle Pryor quarterback that delivers better than Terrelle Pryor. In the 65-43 win against Arkansas, Newton rushed for three touchdowns and threw for one.

2. LaMichael James RB/Oregon (Rushing: 848 YDS, 9TDS)

James is the number one rusher in the nation averaging more than 169 yards per game. His balance of power, speed, and vision has been the X-factor in an explosive Ducks offense. He single-handedly carried Oregon on his back in the win against highly ranked Stanford and looks to do the same against Pac-10 foe UCLA this week.

3. Kellen Moore QB/Boise State (Passing: 1567 YDS, 16TDS, 1 INT)

Kellen Moore may be the most talented player on the board, but it will not get him far considering conference play in the WAC. Of course, the Heisman is meant for the ‘best player in college football,’ but as of late, especially with Mark Ingram and Tim Tebow, schedule strength and the motivational factor play a huge role in the voting process. Expect to see Kellen Moore in New York come presentation time but expect to see him in the middle of the pack. Moore threw for 231 yards and 2 touchdowns in a 48-0 thumping of San Jose State.

4. Alshon Jeffery WR/South Carolina (Receiving: 40 REC, 690 YDS, 5 TDS)

My dark horse in the competition, Alshon Jeffery is the key to the South Carolina offense. That is if Garcia can get him the ball. Two 100-plus yard performances against Alabama and Auburn have shown his athleticism and sure hands. Expect him to put up dominant numbers in prime time against a weak Arkansas secondary and a downtrodden Florida squad. In a close loss to Kentucky, Jeffery had 6 receptions for 65 yards and a touchdown. If the Gamecocks play for the SEC championship, expect Jeffery to be in the Heisman talk.

5. Denard Robinson QB/Michigan (Passing: 1319 YDS, 9 TDS, 5 INT; Rushing: 1096 YDS, 9 TDS)

The last two weeks have not been the best for Denard Robinson as Michigan played against stouter defenses in Michigan State and Iowa. Despite rushing for over 100 yards against the Hawkeyes, Robinson could not keep his team in the game. Still, no single player in the country can bask in the numbers that Robinson owns, and a strong second half of the season could boost him to the top again. The only two obstacles that stand in his way: his re-occurring injuries and the Michigan defense.

The Iron Bowl's Return to Greatness

As 'Poise' flashed on the Jumbotron during the pre-game Traditions video in Bryant-Denny Stadium, I took a deep breath before bursting into cheer as Van Tiffin nailed a 52-yard field goal to overcome Auburn 25-23. Looking around the half-filled monument to football that is Bryant-Denny, I could not help but realize that most of the crowd, students trying to avoid the dreaded upper deck, including myself had never experienced firsthand the joy that was felt by Bama nation on that day. Still, the excitement displayed by the students from that play and others such as 'Wrong Way Bo' uncovered what I should have already known.

The Iron Bowl is the greatest rivalry in college football.

Forget Texas/Oklahoma, Ohio State/Michigan, and Notre Dame/USC. They are all historic in their own right. Forget Florida/Florida State, USC/UCLA, and Ole Miss/Miss. State. They are all territorial in their own right. The perfect rivalry game contains history, location, and pure, old-fashioned hate for the other team. The Iron Bowl encompasses all of these aspects.

History has proven that the Iron Bowl deserves to be among the talk in top rivalry games. I need not preach to the Alabama campus about the many memorable players, coaches, and games that have benefitted both teams over the years. I also need not preach about how deep this rivalry runs.

I may be biased in my opinion, but I grew up with Alabama and Auburn fans. There are Auburn fans in my extended family. I know Alabama/Auburn marriages disputes, sibling disputes, and, most frequently, childhood disputes. I remember not wanting to go to school and faking sick after Auburn victories just so I would not have to listen to the 'dumb' Auburn fans.

This rivalry is in our bloodline and our future. This is not so much the case for Ohio State/Michigan. At the same time, this rivalry provides history and prestige, unlike Ole Miss/Miss State. This year also adds a little more spice.

Considering Alabama and Auburn both win out, which is a daunting task in itself, the game would feature two national title contenders most likely both ranked inside the top five. Add a little college gameday, CBS primetime coverage, a new Bryant-Denny stadium, a chance at the SEC championship, a national title berth, and, wait, a Heisman race.

That is why this game will have the added dimension. We were all witnesses to the devastation Cam Newton delivered to the Arkansas defense. We were all witnesses to the devastation that Mark Ingram dealt last year. Although, he may not have the exact numbers as last year, everyone knows he has the 246-yard South Carolina game in him every time he steps on the field.

The Iron Bowl needed a facelift after the last ten seasons of one stellar team facing off against a mediocre adversary. Through Cam Newton, Mark Ingram, a revamped Auburn team, and a vengeful Alabama team, this year should propel the Iron Bowl back to its glory days. Hopefully, the Bama faithful will see a ‘Wrong Way Cam’ or, may the football gods forbid, another ‘Punt Bama Punt.’