The MMQ
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Throwing a Salute to the "Ufe"
A special day came and went this year and I was watching for it on the “This Date in UM History” and then I was distracted by work and what-not. Then, it hit me that it passed and I hadn’t done or written anything about him….October 23rd was the day the “Great Bob Ufer” left us.
I don’t know why we remember the death of someone after they’re gone and their birthday when they’re still here. But, it’s always fun when something about Bob Ufer comes out and we get to stroll down memory lane. I sometimes find myself wishing that football wasn’t all about the boob tube today as I find myself planted in front of the contraption from about noon on Saturday till midnight, watching as much as I can. Growing up, that wasn’t the case. You were lucky if you had a 1:00 game and a late afternoon game. There was no such thing as "Saturday Night Football." Imagine....
You could go outside and get some stuff done as long as you had the trusty old AM portable tuned to WJR 760 and cranked to the max. Bob Ufer would be there to let you know how things were going in the Hole that Yost dug, Crysler paid for, Canham Carpeted and Schembechler filled every home football Saturday.
Greg over at MVictors had a great guest post that Dr. Steve Sapardanis put together of Ufer’s Nicknames an Uferisms that I thought I should link to here and also post for your enjoyment. I will admit that a couple were new for me, but I recognized at least 80% of them.
Enjoy.
Guest post by Dr. Steve Sapardanis
As we approach Denard “Shoelace” Robinson’s last game at Michigan stadium, I started to think about all the nicknames over the years that have been given to U-M players, past and present. Typically they are abbreviated last names: Huckleby becomes HUCK. Wangler becomes WANGS. Harbaugh becomes HARBS, and so on. Denard’s nickname is a testament to his unique shoe-fastening method – or lack of it.
This year’s team has few that I know of:
* Roy Roundtree – Treezy
* Brendan Gibbons – Lefty, Gibby, Money
It seemed like legendary Michigan broadcaster Bob Ufer had a nickname for every player, besides the fact that he liked to call John “Johnny,” Jim “Jimmy,” and Rob “Robbie.”
Some of the nicknames Ufer used on the radio were given to players by their teammates, while others were bestowed upon them by Robert Frost Ufer himself.
Below are a few of the more famous ones from Bob “THE UFE” Ufer:
* Don Lund (Ufer’s color commentary man) – Lundo
* Jack Lane (Ufer’s stats man) – The Human Computer
* Tom Ufer – Old #3 son
* Bo Schembechler – Bo “George Patton” Schembechler, The General
* Woody Hayes – Dr. Strange Hayes
* Woody Hayes’s Buckeyes – Test Tubes
* Earle Bruce – “Darth Vader” Bruce
* Earle Bruce’s Buckeyes – Scarlet and Gray Stormtroopers
* Dan Devine – Dreary Old Dan Devine
* Michigan State – Jolly Green Giants
* Dennis Franklin – Dennis “The Menace” Franklin
* Ed Shuttlesworth – “Easy” Ed Shuttlesworth
* Mike Lantry – Super Toe
* Gil Chapman – The Jersey Jet
* Gordon Bell – The Whirling Dervish
* Rob Lytle – The Blonde Bullet, The Fremont Flash
* Rick Leach – Ricky “The Peach” Leach, The Flint Phenom, The Guts and Glue of the Maize and Blue
* Russell Davis – Russell “Hustle” Davis
* Harlan Huckleby – Harlan “Huckleberry Finn” Huckleby
* U-M’s 1978 Backfield – Huckleberry Finn deep and Tom Sawyer close
* Thomas Seabron – Old Sea Dog
* Mike Jolly – Butterknife, Bones
* Chris Godfrey – “Manster” (half Man, half Monster)
* Ron Simpkins – Boo Bear
* Curtis Greer – Curtis “Harvey Martin” Greer
* Roosevelt Smith – Roosevelt “Rosey” Smith
* Bryan Virgil – Bryan “Ozzie” Virgil
* Lawrence Reid – Lawrence “LP” Reid
* John Wangler – Johnny “Winging” Wangler
* Mel Owens – The Hulk
* Mike Trgovac – Tiger Vac
* Anthony Carter – Spider, Darter, Sparkplug, the Human Torpedo and of course just, “AC.”
* Robert Thompson – Robert “Bubba Baker” Thompson
* Butch Woolfolk – “My name is Butch, don’t call me Harold, Woolfolk!”
* Steve Smith – Smitty
Ufer-isms
And because you can’t have one without the other, here are a few common but classic phrases frequently uttered by ol’ Ufe:
* Referees – $100 an hour men
* Michigan Stadium – The Hole that Yost dug, Crisler paid for and Canham carpeted
* Michigan’s Tartan Turf – Canham’s Carpet
* Ohio Stadium – The Snakepit
* Ohio Stadium Crowd – 10,000 Michigan fans and 75,000 Truck Drivers
* The Little Brown Jug – The Finest Piece of Football Crockery in America
* Offensive Co-Ordinator Chuck Stobart’s Offense – Stobart’s Stallions
* Jerry Hanlon’s O-Line – Hanlon’s Hustlers
* Gary Moeller’s Offense – Moeller’s Marauders
* Bill McCartney’s Defense – McCartney’s Monsters
* Michigan Football – “Football is a religion and Saturday is the Holy Day of Obligation”
* The CBs of Michigan Football – “Crisler, Benny, Bump and Bo”
* Ali Haji-Shiekh – "the only Iranian I know who wears cowboy boots"
* Out of the endzone kickoffs – “Aluminum Beer Cans – Non-Returnable”
* “Closer than fuzz on a gnat’s eye “
* “Like a bat out of … you know where bats come from”
* “Pickin’ ‘em up and layin’ ‘em down”
* Two things you can always count on Ufer saying: football is a game of emotions, and games are always won or lost up front in the trenches.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Roundtree Is Worthy!
It’s strange…I find myself truly enjoying Mondays like this when I think that maybe I should be like everyone else…Miserable, hating the fact that they have to get up and go out in the weather we’re having today in lower southeastern Michigan. Hopefully (and this has ALWAYS been the intent) this silly little blurb that comes at you mid to late Monday morning picks up your spirits and lightens the mood a little. That’s the intent!
When a player gets a “Legends” jersey, a lot is expected of him. Or a lot should be expected of him. Roundtree hadn’t been having that kind of year. I know that DeRob was having a hard time finding him. I know he gets double teamed a lot. But still, you expect a little something special from any player with that Legend recognition. Kovacs and Ryan have shown that kind of heart and ability on defense.
Then there was Saturday. A truly poor call and spot on a 4th down conversion by the Kitty Kats and all hope was lost…It was over. I hated the refs and I hated Northwestern for being good. When they were forever so bad….All the Kats had to do was get Michigan to run two plays, maybe three and it’s done. With less than 18 seconds left and 40 yards of field required to get Gibbons into field goal range. Of course, at that distance, the kick wouldn’t be a gimme. And it would be a pressure kick. But before that could even happen: Could Devin and company get it close enough to give the “I Dream of Brunettes Kicker” a chance?
And Devin tossed it up. A LOT further than what was necessary for the field goal. I glanced at the time left. I hated the pass immediately. “NOOOOO! Why throw so deep? Get 20 and 20 and then Kick!” were my immediate thoughts. And then the circus started.
You could almost hear the carny music in the background as the ball bounced around and the next thing you know, after acrobatics, gymnastics and standing on his head, or what can only be described as a “FOOTBALL” Play, Roundtree comes up with it. A series of pictures (captioned, of course, by your own MMQ!) describes it better than words ever could…
Okay - I got this!
Got it......
Oops, okay – still got it...
Twist a Little....Easy...Keep your Eye on it!
Wrap it Up!
GOT IT!
And there’s no fanfare or celebration on the field where Roundtree is all business, even though fans everywhere are losing their, well, you know! Roundtree’s just getting ready for the spike play to get the field goal unit on the field.
Gibbons came out and envisioned this week’s Hot Seat Mascot and did his thing with 7 seconds left in regulation. Overtime was almost a blur as the shock from the catch that saved the game was still lingering. Devin rushed in for the TD and the defense held the Kitty Kats to just 4 plays in the bonus period. Demens is another hero that may not get mentioned a lot in the post-game recognitions.
Game over, but wow…What a game. Northwestern isn’t the Domers (JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!) but they certainly provided a Domer like finish in November. And as was texted to me, “This S#$%@t never gets old! GO BLUE!”
On a side note: Kovacs wearing number 11 in honor of the Wistert brothers that played in the 30’s and 40’s. All three were consensus All Americans and played tackle and more information can be found by clicking here and visiting MVictors.
And then there were two. Iowa will be the last time we get to see the Kardiac Kids in the Big House this season. And no one is giving Michigan a chance against the Suckeyes.
We’ll see.
BCS Mess
Well, well well. It seems football’s bad boys aren’t unstoppable after all. And Johnny Football knows a thing or two about taking apart SEC defenses. First, I have to say that I got the opportunity to watch the A&M – Bama contest with an Aggie in the house! That was awesome in and of itself. But I also had an excuse to be loud and noisy which usually ticks off the entire family when I’m loud and noisy with nobody there! The look on Saban’s face in that post game presser was priceless! When you set yourself up to win it all, well, the fall is always a little harder than normal. And Bama has fallen HARD. However, Bama didn’t fall nearly far enough for my tastes and I’m in a quandary as to how a team that beat you doesn’t go up more spots than you fall. In other words, Bama drops to number 5 but A&M only went from 10 to 8? Shouldn’t you at LEAST be ranked above the team you beat, assuming your starting positions are less than say, 10 spots apart? Seems logical to the MMQ. But then again, those two words, Logic and BCS, don’t often find themselves together in the same sentence. So, what does the BCS look like today? Well, for the first time since October 2010, there IS NOT an SEC in one of the top 2 spots, nor are they close to getting there, so that’s saying something:
1. K-State (0.9674): Can you believe that K-State (Where Fielding H. Yost once coached!) has the cleanest shot of making the title game at this point? And isn’t it ironic that they DON’T have to play Texas A&M this year?
2. DUCKS (0.9497): Are on an incredible roll. What was supposed to be a “test” of some sort by Cal (Your MMQ didn’t understand any of the pundits when they kept on with this) crushed the Bears so bad that they may not be seen again for the rest of the season.
3. DOMERS (0.9396): We now have Brian Kelly wishing his name was Chip and searching for voter support where there is none. We’ve all seen the games. Domers(JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!) and you don’t look good as good as the two teams ahead of you. There’s two games (potentially 3) you should have lost. It would be a “SIN” to let you into the Championship Game before the Ducks or K-State. They’re both superior to you on either side of the ball. And you STILL have to beat USC…In LA.
4. Satan’s Warriors (0.8534): WHAT? I thought when you lost late, it hurt you more? Shouldn’t you at least be ranked below the team that beat you? Assuming they are in the top 10? And it’s pretty clear that if the Big 12’s “Third Team” behind Texas and Oklahoma can come in and own Tuscaloosa…Can anyone say SEC Conspiracy? Over rated? Am I going too far here?
5. Georgia (0.8326): So, Bama loses and the Dawgs are STILL Looking up at them….Go figure.
6. GATORLAND: Told you….Gatorland can only be a spoiler…
7. LSU: Two losses and they only drop to 7? Is this an SEC conspiracy I smell?
8. Texas A&M: Johnny Football is the real deal. And new head coach Sumlin knows EXACTLY what to do with him…Let him play and create! 4 years of this guy in the SEC? Look out, SEC West. There’s a new sheriff in town.
9. USC: How can they be higher than a 1 loss ACC team?
10. Florida State: Still Needs LOTS OF HELP
The Rest of the Mess
PSU vs. Huskers: I’m sorry, but PSU got ROBBED on that touchdown that was called a fumble. B1G officiating this year has to be some of the worst we’ve seen in a long time. The B1G offices need to sit down and figure out how to correct the problem, get better people making judgment calls in the re-play booth and get this crap right. You’ve got replay and either choose to ignore it or not use it…What sense does that make?
Ducks vs. Cal: Quack-Quack. If you’re a coach vying for the National Title, the one team you don’t want to play is Oregon. Plain and simple. It seems like they’re cheating. How they continue to play at the pace and speed that they play week in and week out is amazing.
Wiscy vs. Indiana: I wish the FMQ had stuck with his initial read on this game….IU is glad that basketball season is no longer going to be distracted with the silly game of football. Especially after the Cheeseheads hung 60 on them…
The Cuse vs. Louisville: Charlie Strong’s perfect season destroyed up in that cracker box they call the carrier dome or some such nonsense. Too bad Louisville. I feel for you. A special season ruined and your coach most likely headed to an SEC school. I hope you enjoyed it while it lasted.
Idle Thoughts From Saturday
-Devin Starting Again???
-DeRob couldn’t throw during warm-ups.
-They all looked like wounded ducks….
-Why does our defense look so slow?
-Or are the Kitty Kats just that fast?
-Michigan should be eating these guys for lunch.
-Down 10…To Northwestern…Jeez…
-I hate come from behind games.
-But I’m not giving up hope. Not yet.
-I’m not giving up hope…
-Aw, S#$@%t…I guess I’m giving up hope.
-No…Don’t throw that pass so deep?
-What are you thinking?
-YES!!!!!!! DID YOU SEE THAT?
-Holy Crap!
-Roundtree saves the day!
-Do they try a quick pass to win in regulation?
-No. I agree with this call. Get to OT and play down in the Student Section.
-I wish more of them had shown up!
-And I wish more fans would have stayed!
-Oh well, the team can manage without them.
-Score! Way to go Devin….Makes up for that earlier INT….
-All right, DEFENSE, let’s go.
-IF that’s what you’re still calling yourselves.
-31 points to the Kitty Kats?
-Come on. 1 TIME!
-4th down….get him…GET HIM….GOT HIM!
-Demens – Great play…
-Whew…..
-I’m really getting too old for games like this…
-And the A&M freight train is rolling!
-A&M: 21- Bama: 0? Did ANYONE SEE THAT COMING?
-What would have been the prop bet on A&M scoring the game’s first 21 points?
-100 to 1?
-I would have loved to have a piece of that!
-Bama isn’t playing poorly…A&M is just the better team.
-Uh-oh. Bama is waking up.
-A&M Defense starting to fade…
-Come on A&M!
-1:30 left and 4th down. Need the stop here, A&M.
-Johnny Football simply doesn’t have that much left in him…
-YES! Picked off!
-I want to see a shot of Satan, right now!
-Thank you!
-Is Nick crying?
-No….Satan has no tears…
-PSU got jobbed in Lincoln.
-That sucks after everything they’ve been through.
-Do the refs like the Huskers that much?
-Two weeks in a row of favorable calls?
-That was probably Michigan’s last chance to win the division…
-Minnesota and Iowa left for Nebraska?
-It’s not gonna happen…
-But yes, I agree with you. They have to play the games.
The Hot Seat
Mila Jovovich was clearly a fan favorite and has made the finals! Glad you guys liked her and as we are in the final two weeks of nominees, well, it seems a little sad for the MMQ. We spend so many months waiting for the season to start and it gets here and “WHAM!” it’s gone….I can’t believe how quickly the Fall season goes…Thanksgiving in less than two weeks? Really?
I noticed this week’s Hot Seat Mascot nominee in the Sopranos where she played one of Tony’s many “ladies in waiting”, where she was a college student that Tony, uh, engaged with. I thought she was pretty hot then and I’ve seen her in Fairly Legal. What’s amazing to me about this mascot is that her facial expressions can change to the point where she doesn’t even look like the same woman. Without further ado: Hot Seat Mascot nominee for Week 11: Sarah Shahi!
It’s pretty clear that Chizik and Smith are both gone at this point. When the school (Auburn) comes out and says its putting a committee together to review the coaching situation, well….That’s not a good sign. O-fer in the SEC can’t help, either. I’m not even sure beating Satan saves Chizik. Dooley is another one, but his buyout might just slow the Cremesicle brass down on lopping his head off….
1. Gene Chizik: Dead man walking…I wonder if he’s called Tubberville or Bowden and asked for advice?
2. John L Smith: Problem Arkansas has…it’s Arkansas.
3. Derek Dooley: This is unfortunate but O-fer in the SEC is not good…His buyout may just keep him for one more year. Otherwise, it’s $4M to Dooley next year for sitting on his posterior…
4. Tedford : This past weekend’s performance against the Ducks didn’t help Tedford’s cause. More Booster fall out as well….Time will tell, but the MMQ’s gut says this one happens.
5. Frank Spaziani: Domers didn’t help Frank’s status one little bit…
6. Danny Hope: Purdue was a “Dark Horse” to win the Legends division…Yeah, right. Hope is in the third year of a 3 year deal. And don’t look now, but the AD is calling Hope out…Not good…
6. (Tie) Mike Price (UTEP): He was on my earlier radar and is now on the list…More of a question of when at this point….
7. Paul Johnson. GT’s season has been an up and down roller coaster and losing to Middle Tennessee State should have had him on the list earlier…But he’s here now.
8. Pasqualoni – UCONN This team has not gotten better and only gotten a LOT worse since their Fiesta Bowl appearance two years ago…
9. Randy Edsall: Maryland is going to start thinking that with the ACC as screwed up as it is, why aren’t we winning more football games?
10. Mack Brown: Probably staying this year and almost took him off the list…Almost. But it’s clear that Mack may get shown the door once a better option appears.
GONE:
1. Avey - Idaho
2. Phillips – Kentucky
The FMQ
Should have stuck with the Ducks and the Ducks ONLY this past weekend. Although A&M made me very happy as well! Still, WE’RE FINALLY IN THE BLACK and there’s hope with two regular season weeks left in addition to the Championship Games to make a little noise and get us some extra dough for the season!
Domers @ BC (+18.5): Dumb, DUMB, DUUUUMB!!! What was I thinking?
Take the Domers and lay the 18.5 for $40 - LOSE
Duckies (-27.5) @ CAL: We are going to ride this team hard for the next two weeks, mark my words.
Take the Ducks and lay the 27.5 for $75 – WIN! Bank: $142.50
Georgia (-14) @ Auburn: With all the peripheral crap going on in Auburn, I felt like this was the gimme on the board this week…I was right and should have bet more!
Take the Dawgs and lay the 14 for $75 – WIN! Bank $142.50
Texas A&M (+14) @ Bama: I didn’t think the Aggies would upset the Tide, but I love it when a plan comes together!
Take A&M and the 14 for $50 – WIN! Bank $95
NWU (-11) @ MICHIGAN: Okay…IF Michigan’s defense shows up, this is still not a bad bet. But I will give the Kitty Kats a little credit due to the fact that Michigan won.
Take Michigan and lay the 11 for $60 - LOSE
PARLAY!
Let’s do a parlay this week, although we haven’t had much luck with them…..
Michigan-Ducks-Domers for $20 - LOSE
BANK: $621.50
Total WN: $380
BANK: $1,001.50
Monday Morning Lines
Washington @ Colorado (+20): Even though Washington is bad, that’s not nearly enough points for the Buffs…
Stanford (+21) @ Quack Attack: Not enough here, either. The Quack Attack at home looking to make a statement? Playing hard all 4 quarters?
Suckeyes @ Wiscy (+2.5) : Wiscy…Points at home? After Trouncing Indiana? Playing for the “Pride” of the Leaders division? Hmmmmmm…
Iowa @ Michigan (Pick-Em): Okay…I will take Michigan. IF this line is available. I have a feeling it’s not (it’s off the board on one site) and this may be ESPN’s way of saying no line available yet.
In fact, I was looking for over/unders and there aren’t any posted. So something is up with the odds makers for some reason. Stay tuned and I might post later in the week as we are getting close to making money.
When a player gets a “Legends” jersey, a lot is expected of him. Or a lot should be expected of him. Roundtree hadn’t been having that kind of year. I know that DeRob was having a hard time finding him. I know he gets double teamed a lot. But still, you expect a little something special from any player with that Legend recognition. Kovacs and Ryan have shown that kind of heart and ability on defense.
Then there was Saturday. A truly poor call and spot on a 4th down conversion by the Kitty Kats and all hope was lost…It was over. I hated the refs and I hated Northwestern for being good. When they were forever so bad….All the Kats had to do was get Michigan to run two plays, maybe three and it’s done. With less than 18 seconds left and 40 yards of field required to get Gibbons into field goal range. Of course, at that distance, the kick wouldn’t be a gimme. And it would be a pressure kick. But before that could even happen: Could Devin and company get it close enough to give the “I Dream of Brunettes Kicker” a chance?
And Devin tossed it up. A LOT further than what was necessary for the field goal. I glanced at the time left. I hated the pass immediately. “NOOOOO! Why throw so deep? Get 20 and 20 and then Kick!” were my immediate thoughts. And then the circus started.
You could almost hear the carny music in the background as the ball bounced around and the next thing you know, after acrobatics, gymnastics and standing on his head, or what can only be described as a “FOOTBALL” Play, Roundtree comes up with it. A series of pictures (captioned, of course, by your own MMQ!) describes it better than words ever could…
And there’s no fanfare or celebration on the field where Roundtree is all business, even though fans everywhere are losing their, well, you know! Roundtree’s just getting ready for the spike play to get the field goal unit on the field.
Gibbons came out and envisioned this week’s Hot Seat Mascot and did his thing with 7 seconds left in regulation. Overtime was almost a blur as the shock from the catch that saved the game was still lingering. Devin rushed in for the TD and the defense held the Kitty Kats to just 4 plays in the bonus period. Demens is another hero that may not get mentioned a lot in the post-game recognitions.
Game over, but wow…What a game. Northwestern isn’t the Domers (JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!) but they certainly provided a Domer like finish in November. And as was texted to me, “This S#$%@t never gets old! GO BLUE!”
On a side note: Kovacs wearing number 11 in honor of the Wistert brothers that played in the 30’s and 40’s. All three were consensus All Americans and played tackle and more information can be found by clicking here and visiting MVictors.
And then there were two. Iowa will be the last time we get to see the Kardiac Kids in the Big House this season. And no one is giving Michigan a chance against the Suckeyes.
We’ll see.
BCS Mess
Well, well well. It seems football’s bad boys aren’t unstoppable after all. And Johnny Football knows a thing or two about taking apart SEC defenses. First, I have to say that I got the opportunity to watch the A&M – Bama contest with an Aggie in the house! That was awesome in and of itself. But I also had an excuse to be loud and noisy which usually ticks off the entire family when I’m loud and noisy with nobody there! The look on Saban’s face in that post game presser was priceless! When you set yourself up to win it all, well, the fall is always a little harder than normal. And Bama has fallen HARD. However, Bama didn’t fall nearly far enough for my tastes and I’m in a quandary as to how a team that beat you doesn’t go up more spots than you fall. In other words, Bama drops to number 5 but A&M only went from 10 to 8? Shouldn’t you at LEAST be ranked above the team you beat, assuming your starting positions are less than say, 10 spots apart? Seems logical to the MMQ. But then again, those two words, Logic and BCS, don’t often find themselves together in the same sentence. So, what does the BCS look like today? Well, for the first time since October 2010, there IS NOT an SEC in one of the top 2 spots, nor are they close to getting there, so that’s saying something:
1. K-State (0.9674): Can you believe that K-State (Where Fielding H. Yost once coached!) has the cleanest shot of making the title game at this point? And isn’t it ironic that they DON’T have to play Texas A&M this year?
2. DUCKS (0.9497): Are on an incredible roll. What was supposed to be a “test” of some sort by Cal (Your MMQ didn’t understand any of the pundits when they kept on with this) crushed the Bears so bad that they may not be seen again for the rest of the season.
3. DOMERS (0.9396): We now have Brian Kelly wishing his name was Chip and searching for voter support where there is none. We’ve all seen the games. Domers(JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!) and you don’t look good as good as the two teams ahead of you. There’s two games (potentially 3) you should have lost. It would be a “SIN” to let you into the Championship Game before the Ducks or K-State. They’re both superior to you on either side of the ball. And you STILL have to beat USC…In LA.
4. Satan’s Warriors (0.8534): WHAT? I thought when you lost late, it hurt you more? Shouldn’t you at least be ranked below the team that beat you? Assuming they are in the top 10? And it’s pretty clear that if the Big 12’s “Third Team” behind Texas and Oklahoma can come in and own Tuscaloosa…Can anyone say SEC Conspiracy? Over rated? Am I going too far here?
5. Georgia (0.8326): So, Bama loses and the Dawgs are STILL Looking up at them….Go figure.
6. GATORLAND: Told you….Gatorland can only be a spoiler…
7. LSU: Two losses and they only drop to 7? Is this an SEC conspiracy I smell?
8. Texas A&M: Johnny Football is the real deal. And new head coach Sumlin knows EXACTLY what to do with him…Let him play and create! 4 years of this guy in the SEC? Look out, SEC West. There’s a new sheriff in town.
9. USC: How can they be higher than a 1 loss ACC team?
10. Florida State: Still Needs LOTS OF HELP
The Rest of the Mess
PSU vs. Huskers: I’m sorry, but PSU got ROBBED on that touchdown that was called a fumble. B1G officiating this year has to be some of the worst we’ve seen in a long time. The B1G offices need to sit down and figure out how to correct the problem, get better people making judgment calls in the re-play booth and get this crap right. You’ve got replay and either choose to ignore it or not use it…What sense does that make?
Ducks vs. Cal: Quack-Quack. If you’re a coach vying for the National Title, the one team you don’t want to play is Oregon. Plain and simple. It seems like they’re cheating. How they continue to play at the pace and speed that they play week in and week out is amazing.
Wiscy vs. Indiana: I wish the FMQ had stuck with his initial read on this game….IU is glad that basketball season is no longer going to be distracted with the silly game of football. Especially after the Cheeseheads hung 60 on them…
The Cuse vs. Louisville: Charlie Strong’s perfect season destroyed up in that cracker box they call the carrier dome or some such nonsense. Too bad Louisville. I feel for you. A special season ruined and your coach most likely headed to an SEC school. I hope you enjoyed it while it lasted.
Idle Thoughts From Saturday
-Devin Starting Again???
-DeRob couldn’t throw during warm-ups.
-They all looked like wounded ducks….
-Why does our defense look so slow?
-Or are the Kitty Kats just that fast?
-Michigan should be eating these guys for lunch.
-Down 10…To Northwestern…Jeez…
-I hate come from behind games.
-But I’m not giving up hope. Not yet.
-I’m not giving up hope…
-Aw, S#$@%t…I guess I’m giving up hope.
-No…Don’t throw that pass so deep?
-What are you thinking?
-YES!!!!!!! DID YOU SEE THAT?
-Holy Crap!
-Roundtree saves the day!
-Do they try a quick pass to win in regulation?
-No. I agree with this call. Get to OT and play down in the Student Section.
-I wish more of them had shown up!
-And I wish more fans would have stayed!
-Oh well, the team can manage without them.
-Score! Way to go Devin….Makes up for that earlier INT….
-All right, DEFENSE, let’s go.
-IF that’s what you’re still calling yourselves.
-31 points to the Kitty Kats?
-Come on. 1 TIME!
-4th down….get him…GET HIM….GOT HIM!
-Demens – Great play…
-Whew…..
-I’m really getting too old for games like this…
-And the A&M freight train is rolling!
-A&M: 21- Bama: 0? Did ANYONE SEE THAT COMING?
-What would have been the prop bet on A&M scoring the game’s first 21 points?
-100 to 1?
-I would have loved to have a piece of that!
-Bama isn’t playing poorly…A&M is just the better team.
-Uh-oh. Bama is waking up.
-A&M Defense starting to fade…
-Come on A&M!
-1:30 left and 4th down. Need the stop here, A&M.
-Johnny Football simply doesn’t have that much left in him…
-YES! Picked off!
-I want to see a shot of Satan, right now!
-Thank you!
-Is Nick crying?
-No….Satan has no tears…
-PSU got jobbed in Lincoln.
-That sucks after everything they’ve been through.
-Do the refs like the Huskers that much?
-Two weeks in a row of favorable calls?
-That was probably Michigan’s last chance to win the division…
-Minnesota and Iowa left for Nebraska?
-It’s not gonna happen…
-But yes, I agree with you. They have to play the games.
The Hot Seat
Mila Jovovich was clearly a fan favorite and has made the finals! Glad you guys liked her and as we are in the final two weeks of nominees, well, it seems a little sad for the MMQ. We spend so many months waiting for the season to start and it gets here and “WHAM!” it’s gone….I can’t believe how quickly the Fall season goes…Thanksgiving in less than two weeks? Really?
I noticed this week’s Hot Seat Mascot nominee in the Sopranos where she played one of Tony’s many “ladies in waiting”, where she was a college student that Tony, uh, engaged with. I thought she was pretty hot then and I’ve seen her in Fairly Legal. What’s amazing to me about this mascot is that her facial expressions can change to the point where she doesn’t even look like the same woman. Without further ado: Hot Seat Mascot nominee for Week 11: Sarah Shahi!
It’s pretty clear that Chizik and Smith are both gone at this point. When the school (Auburn) comes out and says its putting a committee together to review the coaching situation, well….That’s not a good sign. O-fer in the SEC can’t help, either. I’m not even sure beating Satan saves Chizik. Dooley is another one, but his buyout might just slow the Cremesicle brass down on lopping his head off….
1. Gene Chizik: Dead man walking…I wonder if he’s called Tubberville or Bowden and asked for advice?
2. John L Smith: Problem Arkansas has…it’s Arkansas.
3. Derek Dooley: This is unfortunate but O-fer in the SEC is not good…His buyout may just keep him for one more year. Otherwise, it’s $4M to Dooley next year for sitting on his posterior…
4. Tedford : This past weekend’s performance against the Ducks didn’t help Tedford’s cause. More Booster fall out as well….Time will tell, but the MMQ’s gut says this one happens.
5. Frank Spaziani: Domers didn’t help Frank’s status one little bit…
6. Danny Hope: Purdue was a “Dark Horse” to win the Legends division…Yeah, right. Hope is in the third year of a 3 year deal. And don’t look now, but the AD is calling Hope out…Not good…
6. (Tie) Mike Price (UTEP): He was on my earlier radar and is now on the list…More of a question of when at this point….
7. Paul Johnson. GT’s season has been an up and down roller coaster and losing to Middle Tennessee State should have had him on the list earlier…But he’s here now.
8. Pasqualoni – UCONN This team has not gotten better and only gotten a LOT worse since their Fiesta Bowl appearance two years ago…
9. Randy Edsall: Maryland is going to start thinking that with the ACC as screwed up as it is, why aren’t we winning more football games?
10. Mack Brown: Probably staying this year and almost took him off the list…Almost. But it’s clear that Mack may get shown the door once a better option appears.
GONE:
1. Avey - Idaho
2. Phillips – Kentucky
The FMQ
Should have stuck with the Ducks and the Ducks ONLY this past weekend. Although A&M made me very happy as well! Still, WE’RE FINALLY IN THE BLACK and there’s hope with two regular season weeks left in addition to the Championship Games to make a little noise and get us some extra dough for the season!
Domers @ BC (+18.5): Dumb, DUMB, DUUUUMB!!! What was I thinking?
Take the Domers and lay the 18.5 for $40 - LOSE
Duckies (-27.5) @ CAL: We are going to ride this team hard for the next two weeks, mark my words.
Take the Ducks and lay the 27.5 for $75 – WIN! Bank: $142.50
Georgia (-14) @ Auburn: With all the peripheral crap going on in Auburn, I felt like this was the gimme on the board this week…I was right and should have bet more!
Take the Dawgs and lay the 14 for $75 – WIN! Bank $142.50
Texas A&M (+14) @ Bama: I didn’t think the Aggies would upset the Tide, but I love it when a plan comes together!
Take A&M and the 14 for $50 – WIN! Bank $95
NWU (-11) @ MICHIGAN: Okay…IF Michigan’s defense shows up, this is still not a bad bet. But I will give the Kitty Kats a little credit due to the fact that Michigan won.
Take Michigan and lay the 11 for $60 - LOSE
PARLAY!
Let’s do a parlay this week, although we haven’t had much luck with them…..
Michigan-Ducks-Domers for $20 - LOSE
BANK: $621.50
Total WN: $380
BANK: $1,001.50
Monday Morning Lines
Washington @ Colorado (+20): Even though Washington is bad, that’s not nearly enough points for the Buffs…
Stanford (+21) @ Quack Attack: Not enough here, either. The Quack Attack at home looking to make a statement? Playing hard all 4 quarters?
Suckeyes @ Wiscy (+2.5) : Wiscy…Points at home? After Trouncing Indiana? Playing for the “Pride” of the Leaders division? Hmmmmmm…
Iowa @ Michigan (Pick-Em): Okay…I will take Michigan. IF this line is available. I have a feeling it’s not (it’s off the board on one site) and this may be ESPN’s way of saying no line available yet.
In fact, I was looking for over/unders and there aren’t any posted. So something is up with the odds makers for some reason. Stay tuned and I might post later in the week as we are getting close to making money.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Kitty Kat Sky is Falling?
In honor of 50 years of James Bond Films and the latest movie “Skyfall” opening today…
My Name is Q….FMQ. I’ll have a beer…Labatt Blue….Not shaken, not stirred.
I remember the days when Northwestern coming to town was not only better than a bye week (you got a free victory for taking the field), but it usually meant that you had to sneak in a lot more booze and beer (back when you could do that sort of thing) and usually meant a half time run to Schneider’s Party Store at the corner of Stadium and Main…
My….how times change.
Michigan opened as an 11 point favorite Monday and I’ve seen the line up and down from there – half point either direction. So, what gives? My guess is it has to do with Devin or DeRob….Or DeRob or Devin. How about this: What about both?
First, there is no QB controversy in Ann Arbor. That’s dumb thinking. But I do foresee a “dual threat” package that Al Borges could start using just to screw with people. That wouldn’t surprise me at all.
Final 4 Undefeated Update: Since we introduced this in the FMQ, I hate to not mention it while it lasts. What are the odds for all the undefeated teams to stay undefeated? Here you go:
From ESPN’s Chris Fallica:
…has once again calculated the chances of Alabama, Oregon, Notre Dame and Kansas State to enter the bowl season with unbeaten records.
The results:
Alabama -- 67.4 percent.
Notre Dame -- 66.8 percent (Fallica's algorithms must not have seen the Irish play Pitt on Saturday).
Kansas State -- 55.0 percent (Is that with or without Collin Klein?).
Oregon -- 30.0 percent (Wait? What? Thirty percent? Not higher? No, the formula is nervous about the Ducks' regular-season-ending game at Oregon State.)
And the chance of all four teams entering the bowls unbeaten is now 7.4 percent, up from 2.9 percent a week ago.
One other little thing: I’ve seen a couple of Bowl Projections from different sources that have the Domers in the Grand Daddy of them all due to the fact that Quack Attack will be in the Title Game. Meaning: Domers could have a chance to go 4-0 against the B1G…Ugh….I don’t want to see that….I’m not even sure I want the re-match. But, if Michigan makes the Rose, I will take it.
One Little Lane Kiffin Thing: If you haven’t heard, a student manager got himself canned at USC for letting the air out of the game balls after the officials had inspected them before the game. Lane Kiffin “claims” he knew nothing about this. In case you don’t know: When your team is on offense, your team uses its own ball. There’s 12 game balls (6 on each sideline) and the refs inspect them pre-game. But they usually aren’t checked post game. Releasing about 0.5 psi makes the balls easier to throw and a lot easier for the running backs to hold onto. But, I’ve got news for EVERYONE: EVERY team does this! I won’t say how I know, I just know and let’s leave it at that. Usually, the task of “taking care of the balls” which includes discreetly de-pressurizing is always assigned to a manager with an air needle and you do what’s necessary for the team. Behind the bench out of site of everyone. (Apparently the USC dumbass did it in front of the Oregon bench) But everybody knows what’s going on. I have a better idea here: Just reduce the specification or up the tolerance on what the air in the ball should be for the NCAA!!!! Then, nobody is cheating.
One more little Texas Thing: Mack Brown, in case you haven’t heard, is “angry” at opposing fans for doing the “Horns Down” thing when Texas is playing them. Says it is very disrespectful…. Mack, Mack, Mack….That’s kind of like Brian Kelly saying he doesn’t like the term “Domers” or Dantonio saying he doesn’t like the term “Losers”…er…”SOS”.
Never, EVER call out anyone for doing or saying anything that’s “BAD” about your program…That’s like an invitation.
And, it’s kind of funny, because your FMQ has been to Texas and seen the beaches in Gavelston and South Padre. I always thought “Horn’s Down!” is the view you get of a Texas coed’s bikini lines when she’s on her knees giving you…well, you know (I mean, I can’t go there!!) Come on! This IS a family column! Maybe there’s a Texas coed that can help Ole Mack understand that “Horn’s Down!” isn’t necessarily a bad thing!
This Week’s Picks:
Wish I would have posted this last night as I had a feeling about those Hokies at home against FSU…Oh well, opportunities can easily be made up. Going WAY off the page here as we are in the final weeks….I believe we have enough history and data to support some additional picks. Yes, I’m going a little heavy, but I think there’s a lot of value in some of these games…. Let’s hope I’m right!
Domers @ BC (+18.5): Man, based on the past years, this game is always close…But can the Boston Catholics keep it that close? I don’t think they can as they are the worst in defense in the ACC and their offense isn’t much better. Another stat is they are the best road team ATS this year (something like a 25+ pt average). Therefore,
Take the Domers and lay the 18.5 for $40
Wiscy (-6.5) @ Indiana: I KNOW this is for the Leaders Division race…But Indiana only getting 6.5? Seems a little light…This pick makes me nervous as I don’t think Indiana is that good, but their stats on offense are awesome. Still….I don’t like either side of this pick to make it one way or the other. PASS
Duckies (-27.5) @ CAL: Tedford’s swan song? Cal has been an on/off team this year and I don’t think there’s any “on” left in them….The Quack Attack is formidable and will not be denied…
Take the Ducks and lay the 27.5 for $75
Georgia (-14) @ Auburn: Really? I mean….Jeez….I guess I’m a Dawg fan here. Big Dawg fan…Don’t see how it will even stay this close…
Take the Dawgs and lay the 14 for $75
Texas A&M (+14) @ Bama: I think I like A&M here getting all those points. Aggies have NOTHING to lose…Bama coming off emotional win. This is quickly becoming the pick du jour (upset wise) and I feel like there’s something going on here…But I will go with the consensus and at least take the points.
Take A&M and the 14 for $50
NWU (-11) @ MICHIGAN: And this SEEMS REALLY HEAVY for a team that almost beat Nebraska and seems to play Michigan tough every year. But who will be the QB? Either way, I feel like Michigan has gotten the offense back on track and the Kitty Kats are defensively weak and I look for separation early in this game….
Take Michigan and lay the 11 for $60
PARLAY!
Let’s do a parlay this week, although we haven’t had much luck with them…..
Michigan-Ducks-Domers for $20
Starting Bank: $941.50
TOTAL BET: $320
BANK: $621.50
My Name is Q….FMQ. I’ll have a beer…Labatt Blue….Not shaken, not stirred.
I remember the days when Northwestern coming to town was not only better than a bye week (you got a free victory for taking the field), but it usually meant that you had to sneak in a lot more booze and beer (back when you could do that sort of thing) and usually meant a half time run to Schneider’s Party Store at the corner of Stadium and Main…
My….how times change.
Michigan opened as an 11 point favorite Monday and I’ve seen the line up and down from there – half point either direction. So, what gives? My guess is it has to do with Devin or DeRob….Or DeRob or Devin. How about this: What about both?
First, there is no QB controversy in Ann Arbor. That’s dumb thinking. But I do foresee a “dual threat” package that Al Borges could start using just to screw with people. That wouldn’t surprise me at all.
Final 4 Undefeated Update: Since we introduced this in the FMQ, I hate to not mention it while it lasts. What are the odds for all the undefeated teams to stay undefeated? Here you go:
From ESPN’s Chris Fallica:
…has once again calculated the chances of Alabama, Oregon, Notre Dame and Kansas State to enter the bowl season with unbeaten records.
The results:
Alabama -- 67.4 percent.
Notre Dame -- 66.8 percent (Fallica's algorithms must not have seen the Irish play Pitt on Saturday).
Kansas State -- 55.0 percent (Is that with or without Collin Klein?).
Oregon -- 30.0 percent (Wait? What? Thirty percent? Not higher? No, the formula is nervous about the Ducks' regular-season-ending game at Oregon State.)
And the chance of all four teams entering the bowls unbeaten is now 7.4 percent, up from 2.9 percent a week ago.
One other little thing: I’ve seen a couple of Bowl Projections from different sources that have the Domers in the Grand Daddy of them all due to the fact that Quack Attack will be in the Title Game. Meaning: Domers could have a chance to go 4-0 against the B1G…Ugh….I don’t want to see that….I’m not even sure I want the re-match. But, if Michigan makes the Rose, I will take it.
One Little Lane Kiffin Thing: If you haven’t heard, a student manager got himself canned at USC for letting the air out of the game balls after the officials had inspected them before the game. Lane Kiffin “claims” he knew nothing about this. In case you don’t know: When your team is on offense, your team uses its own ball. There’s 12 game balls (6 on each sideline) and the refs inspect them pre-game. But they usually aren’t checked post game. Releasing about 0.5 psi makes the balls easier to throw and a lot easier for the running backs to hold onto. But, I’ve got news for EVERYONE: EVERY team does this! I won’t say how I know, I just know and let’s leave it at that. Usually, the task of “taking care of the balls” which includes discreetly de-pressurizing is always assigned to a manager with an air needle and you do what’s necessary for the team. Behind the bench out of site of everyone. (Apparently the USC dumbass did it in front of the Oregon bench) But everybody knows what’s going on. I have a better idea here: Just reduce the specification or up the tolerance on what the air in the ball should be for the NCAA!!!! Then, nobody is cheating.
One more little Texas Thing: Mack Brown, in case you haven’t heard, is “angry” at opposing fans for doing the “Horns Down” thing when Texas is playing them. Says it is very disrespectful…. Mack, Mack, Mack….That’s kind of like Brian Kelly saying he doesn’t like the term “Domers” or Dantonio saying he doesn’t like the term “Losers”…er…”SOS”.
Never, EVER call out anyone for doing or saying anything that’s “BAD” about your program…That’s like an invitation.
And, it’s kind of funny, because your FMQ has been to Texas and seen the beaches in Gavelston and South Padre. I always thought “Horn’s Down!” is the view you get of a Texas coed’s bikini lines when she’s on her knees giving you…well, you know (I mean, I can’t go there!!) Come on! This IS a family column! Maybe there’s a Texas coed that can help Ole Mack understand that “Horn’s Down!” isn’t necessarily a bad thing!
This Week’s Picks:
Wish I would have posted this last night as I had a feeling about those Hokies at home against FSU…Oh well, opportunities can easily be made up. Going WAY off the page here as we are in the final weeks….I believe we have enough history and data to support some additional picks. Yes, I’m going a little heavy, but I think there’s a lot of value in some of these games…. Let’s hope I’m right!
Domers @ BC (+18.5): Man, based on the past years, this game is always close…But can the Boston Catholics keep it that close? I don’t think they can as they are the worst in defense in the ACC and their offense isn’t much better. Another stat is they are the best road team ATS this year (something like a 25+ pt average). Therefore,
Take the Domers and lay the 18.5 for $40
Wiscy (-6.5) @ Indiana: I KNOW this is for the Leaders Division race…But Indiana only getting 6.5? Seems a little light…This pick makes me nervous as I don’t think Indiana is that good, but their stats on offense are awesome. Still….I don’t like either side of this pick to make it one way or the other. PASS
Duckies (-27.5) @ CAL: Tedford’s swan song? Cal has been an on/off team this year and I don’t think there’s any “on” left in them….The Quack Attack is formidable and will not be denied…
Take the Ducks and lay the 27.5 for $75
Georgia (-14) @ Auburn: Really? I mean….Jeez….I guess I’m a Dawg fan here. Big Dawg fan…Don’t see how it will even stay this close…
Take the Dawgs and lay the 14 for $75
Texas A&M (+14) @ Bama: I think I like A&M here getting all those points. Aggies have NOTHING to lose…Bama coming off emotional win. This is quickly becoming the pick du jour (upset wise) and I feel like there’s something going on here…But I will go with the consensus and at least take the points.
Take A&M and the 14 for $50
NWU (-11) @ MICHIGAN: And this SEEMS REALLY HEAVY for a team that almost beat Nebraska and seems to play Michigan tough every year. But who will be the QB? Either way, I feel like Michigan has gotten the offense back on track and the Kitty Kats are defensively weak and I look for separation early in this game….
Take Michigan and lay the 11 for $60
PARLAY!
Let’s do a parlay this week, although we haven’t had much luck with them…..
Michigan-Ducks-Domers for $20
Starting Bank: $941.50
TOTAL BET: $320
BANK: $621.50
Monday, November 5, 2012
Great Big Gobs of Greasy Slimy Gopher Guts!
Sorry..Couldn’t resist the Caddyshack re-set in today’s title entry. Bill Murray has forever doomed the Gophers to a punchline in the B1G until they can somehow find a way to win on a regular basis.
Michigan played a great game in a must win situation which is really all you need to say about Saturday. But, (there’s always a “But” with the MMQ isn’t there?) there was SO MUCH more that happened Saturday in Minnesota that needs to be discussed.
First, Devin had a great game. Cinderella Story?
Not so much…..Yes. He is a good QB. We KNEW that two years ago. So, for everyone that was surprised that he came out and did what he did…Well, I’m not sure what you were watching when he played that position before. According to the reports, Devin did what he was asked and what he wanted to do when he moved to wide receiver. He was helping the team and he was going to see more playing time. Plain and simple.
Bellomy (and I will stand by this statement until everyone beats it out of me) played as well as he possibly could have against the Husker Defense. If Devin had gone in against the Huskers, I’m not sure anything changes….But, the MMQ will admit that the question certainly crossed my mind and it’s unfortunate that we will never know the answer to the question: What could or would have happened if Devin played the 2nd half in Lincoln?
And unfortunately, that Husker defeat is starting to loom larger and larger due to the fact that Michigan is running out of teams that legitimately have a shot at beating Nebraska which would put them back in the driver’s seat of the B1G Legends division. (Thanks for NOTHING Sparty…More on that in a minute).
As for the Gophers? Well, you really don’t want to beat up on a team and a coach like this (I like Kill, I really do), you just feel like you owed it to them….
And this will be the last time I reference a movie this much in any post! Maybe….But ya gotta' love Caddyshack!
BCS Mess
Oh…What could have BEEN! Two teams in the top 5 looked like they were going DOWN on Saturday. In fact, it was kind of sad when Pitt missed that field goal in the 2nd OT and gave the Domers new hope. What was REALLY sad was the drive at the end of the game that let the Domers score and then convert the 2 point conversion. They say a champion is tested at some point late in the season by someone they didn’t see coming. Michigan had Ball State in 1997. Was this the Domer wake-up call? The Hatter outcoached and stupid called himself into the LSU loss….The Tigers had that game. So, where does that leave the BCS standings? Now with the “points” for each of the top 5:
1. Satan’s Warriors (0.996): No surprise here. Until they are beat, they’re in the Championship.
2. K-State (0.932): Okie State tried, but K-State proved who the “real Men” were on the field Staurday.
3. DUCKS(0.917): Got the Power Win they needed against USC. And the covered and they beat the Spread! Look out for the Ducks. This is the team on a mission this year….
4. DOMERS (0.905): Water eventually seeks its own level. While Pitt provided the challenge, I believe there is now some doubt in Domer land as to how good this team really is.
5. Georgia (0.817): Just in case they win out, the pollsters want to keep these guys up there…
6. GATORLAND: Told you….Gatorland can only be a spoiler…
7. LSU: Two losses and they only drop to 7? Is this an SEC conspiracy I smell?
8. USC…Same here….The Ole Ball Coach is paying somebody?
9. Louisville: Enjoy It. Charlie Strong will be coaching in the SEC next Season…
10. Florida State: Needs LOTS OF HELP
The Rest of the Mess – Or “THANKS FOR NUTHIN’” TEAMS!
Sparty vs. Huskers: When Nebraska got the ball back near the end of the game, I honestly believed that the MSU “D” was going to rise to the occasion. Unfortunately, they fell flat. Was it a result of bad calls? Could be…But there was still an opportunity there to shut the Huskers down. However, I will say that if I WAS a Sparty fan, I would be calling the B1G refereeing office this AM and filing a complaint…Again, Sparty, thanks for nothing and to all those fans that texted me the, “Oh well, at least Michigan won’t be in the Title Game” texts…This goes to show you EXACTLY why you’re the biggest losers in the game of football. Well.... the "world needs Ditch Diggers, too!"
BAMA vs. LSU: The Hatter calls for a fake field goal in the first half when LSU is still in the game and frankly, in control. Why do that there? Can someone explain that to me? Then, again, with their top rated defensive unit on the field and a QB that no one thinks is all that great facing them, they let Bama drive 80 yards in 47 seconds to score? WTF….Thanks for nothing, Les…..
Pitt vs. Domers: This one made me sick. And as was texted to me, who WOULDN’T pay money to be in the ESPN studios watching this annual match-up with Mark May (Pitt Grad) and Lou Holtz (Former underachieving HC of Domers)? Pitt was OH SO CLOSE and couldn’t hang on…and then that missed chip shot in OT? Kind of like missing a 3-footer....Doncha' think?
Ducks vs. USC: Anyone who has followed the Ducks this year knows that USC really didn’t have much of a chance, but when the Trojans started scoring, it woke everyone up to the fact that maybe, just maybe…There was a chance. But then reality set in and it became apparent that, no, USC was not going to come close to pulling off the impossible…Thanks for nothing….But we weren’t expecting it, anyway.
Idle Thoughts From Saturday
-Devin Starting?
-DeRob is hurt worse than anyone thought…
-Or, he didn’t practice as much.
-Hoke is hedging his bets this week…..
-Meaning, he knows that Devin can go out and win this game.
-And that gets him some experience in case…
-I won’t type it, but you know…Just in case.
-Obviously, the Bellomy just in case scenario wasn’t that pleasing…
-But that’s a tough scenario for ANY QB.
-That’s the last I’m going to say on that.
-Huskers - Michigan Game is over….
-Sparty is going to pull this off for Michigan!
-I was actually starting to like them again…
-The Pass interference on Sparty was an awful call.
-I believe B1G refereeing is pretty bad this year.
-Minnesota got called for one that, well, I could have seen it going either way.
-Meaning a “no call”.
-They HAVE TO BE ABLE TO PLAY DEFENSE!
-Meaning: Unless you’re tackling the guy because you know you’re beat, it should be allowed.
-Doncha’ think?
-I know Sparty does.
-So, who’s left on the Husker Schedule?
-PSU – Loss doesn’t necessarily help Michigan, Minnesota (gag) and Iowa (There’s a chance.)
-Michigan: Kitty Kats, Iowa, Suckeyes - Need to win them all…
-Come on PITT!
-Oh Pitt…What are you doing now?
-Don’t collapse when this is so much within your reach!
-Okay – make this chip shot and SHOCK THE WORLD!
-Jeez…Luck of the Irish..My ass.
-I hate how smug Lou Holtz gets on Game Day Final when talking about the Domers.
-It makes me want to puke…
-How does Mark May not deck him?
-He should get an ESPY award for just keeping himself in check sitting next to Lou.
-Duckies are waddling all over Kiffin’s team.
-Chip Kelly is going to win a National Title.
-Just a matter of time.
-Will the SEC come knocking?
-Wouldn’t that be a slap in Oregon’s face?
The Hot Seat
You guys amaze me, you really do. Not only does this week’s mascot not hold serve, Lacey Chabert (Last week’s nominee) comes through in FLYING COLORS with the HIGHEST VOTE TOTAL of the season to take the number 1 spot in the Hot Seat Mascot Finals! Just when I thought I knew it all…..
As for this week’s mascot, she first caught my eye years ago when she starred opposite Bruce Willis in the 5th Element. Then, the Resident Evil franchise made her a household name. Yes, I played the game and I see the movies for one reason: Mila Jovovich!
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Well, we can add another name to the gone list…I didn’t have Joker Phillips high on the Hot Seat due to the lower profile of Kentucky, but he’s gone anyway.
1. Gene Chizik: Losing to the Hawgs AND MSU in the same year gets you on the list…National Championships be damned! Question is: Who does Aburn, actually, anyone get if they fire the guys on this list? Petrino?
2. John L Smith – He’s only on a 10 month contract, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they canned him before then…To hire….WHO?
3. Derek Dooley: Needs a MAJOR win in the SEC
4. Mack Brown: I know, I know. But you didn’t think they would fire Joe Pa, either. Believe the MMQ when I say that his retirement or canning is nearer than you think…
5. Frank Spaziani: BC is a proud school that doesn’t get a lot of attention…. Until you lose to ARMY….And get a new AD looking to make a name for himself.
6. The Old Ball Coach: Can’t lose to your Alma Mater by double digits and not feel some heat.
6. (Tie) Paul Johnson. GT’s season has been an up and down roller coaster and losing to Middle Tennessee State should have had him on the list earlier…But he’s here now.
7. Pasqualoni – UCONN This team has not gotten better and only gotten a LOT worse since their Fiesta Bowl appearance two years ago…
8. Randy Edsall: Maryland is going to start thinking that with the ACC as screwed up as it is, why aren’t we winning more football games?
9. Kevin Wilson: But can Indiana really expect much more? Really?
10. Brett Beilema – Wiscy. His fans have expectations now. Losing to MSU at home?
11. Tedford
GONE:
1. Avey - Idaho
2. Phillips – Kentucky
The FMQ
Repeat after me (Assuming you’re a gambler): WE LOVE THE DUCKS! WE LOVE THE DUCKS! Not a bad weekend for the FMQ and there’s now a real good chance that we can end up on the positive side of the chart with a few more well placed bets before the end of the year!
Texas Tech (+7) vs. Texas: This one was SO CLOSE….
Take Texas Tech and the 7 for $40 - LOSE
Stanford (-27.5) @ Colorado: I think we will continue to ride the Colorado wagon for the rest of the season! In the bad way, I mean!
Take Stanford and lay the 27.5 for $30 – WIN! BANK: $57
Cornhuskers @ Sparty (-1.5 Monday….2.5 Today): Jeez Sparty….You lose and you can’t even cover at home? THANKS FOR NOTHIN’!
Take Sparty and the 2.5 for $30 - LOSE
Oregon (-7) @ USC (Today -8): Hee-hee….This is a great thing. I love to watch Lane Kiffin lose. Don’t know why. But I really like to see him lose and win a bet on it at the same time!
Take the Ducks and lay the 8.5 for $80 – WIN! BANK: $152
Take the Over (70) for $70 – WIN! BANK: $133
Pitt (+17.5) @ Domers: Why didn’t I trust my instincts and take Pitt here? Nuts….
BAMA @ LSU (+8.5): Well, at least the Hatter covered….
Take LSU and the 8.5 for $30 – WIN! BANK: $57
Michigan (-11) @ Minnesota: Looking like a GENIUS now…Wile E. Coyote…Genius, that is!
Take Michigan and lay the 11 for $50 – WIN! BANK: $95
Starting Bank: $447.50
Total WIN: $494
BANK: $941.50
Monday Morning Line
Domers @ BC (+18.5): Man, based on the past years, this game is always close…But can the Boston Catholics keep it that close?
Wiscy (-6.5) @ Indiana: I KNOW this is for the Leaders Division race…But Indiana only getting 6.5? Seems a little light…
NWU (-11) @ MICHIGAN: And this SEEMS REALLY HEAVY for a team that almost beat Nebraska and seems to play Michigan tough every year. But who will be the QB?
Duckies (-27.5) @ CAL: Tedford’s swan song?
Georgia (-14) @ Auburn: Really? I mean….Jeez….I guess I’m a Dawg fan here.
Texas A&M (+14) @ Bama: I think I like A&M here getting all those points. Aggies have NOTHING to lose…Bama coming off emotional win.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Gopher Friday! GOING FOR THE JUG!
Well, after the less than spectacular performance that Michigan left on the field in Lincoln, I’ve gotten over it and I believe the Wolverines have, also. Minnesota will present a challenge, but let’s not forget:
THIS IS FOR THE JUG!
The oldest trophy in college football! And it's not a Pig or a Turtle... And it was an accident. The Victors website has the whole thing documented and if you’re not doing anything some rainy afternoon or need to look busy in a meeting, I highly recommend reading the entire story. It’s worth it.
The FMQ has only 4 regular weeks left to make up ground…And we’re in the hole. Might have to get a little more aggressive this week if we want to finish in the black. Meaning we might break our 25% of the total bank-roll rule in order to either make it or break it for the season….
Before we get to the picks, there’s been a lot of radio and television discussion revolving around “What do we do IF” there are 4 undefeated teams at the end of the season: Bama, Duckies, Wildcats, and Domers. Not necessarily in that order. But before everyone goes a’fretting about who will get screwed, leave it to a math guy to come to the rescue of the debate.
From ESPN’s website: Chris Fallica
Developing algorithms is what ESPN's "College GameDay" research guru Chris Fallica does for fun this time of year. Fallica really needs to get a life.
Anyway, his latest formula calculates the chances of Bama, K-State, Oregon and Notre Dame entering the bowl season with undefeated records:
Notre Dame: 62.2 percent (remaining schedule: Pittsburgh, at Boston College, Wake Forest, at USC)
Alabama: 57.1 (at LSU, Texas A&M, FCS-member Western Carolina, playing-like-an-FCS-member Auburn)
K-State: 43.0 (Oklahoma State, at TCU, at Baylor, Texas)
Oregon: 18.9 (at USC, at Cal, Stanford, at Oregon State)
And the chances that all four of those teams go unbeaten: less than 2.9 percent
Huh….Ain’t that something! Math actually SUPPORTS the notion that there will be UPSETS IN NOVEMBER! If you’re a gambler…isn’t that considered “useful” information?
That should be all that’s necessary to discuss at this point in time, save this week’s picks!
This Week’s Picks:
Texas Tech (+7) vs. Texas: If this game were in Lubbock, I would probably be all over Texas Tech. AS it is, with Tubberville getting 7, it’s simply too hard to ignore for a value bet. Mack Brown’s days are starting to get numbered and I truly believe there’s a threshold that will be reached of the Shorthorns lose to Tech.
Take Texas Tech and the 7 for $40
Stanford (-27.5) @ Colorado: Again, had your FMQ been PAYING MORE ATTENTION! (I sound like I’m yelling at my own kids inside my head) I would have realized that the Buffs have been a bettors dream this season. They have only covered the spread once. That being said, I think Stanford does a little number on the Buffs similar to what the Duckies did, just not as much. And the points sound about right to the FMQ…
Take Stanford and lay the 27.5 for $30
Cornhuskers @ Sparty (-1.5 Monday….2.5 Today): Well, I like Sparty getting points at home. The Huskers have never played in East Lansing and you can bet that Sparty will be ready. Should be ready…Or is this the same ‘ole Sparty that somehow stole one from Wisconsin last week?
Take Sparty and the 2.5 for $30
Oregon (-7) @ USC (Today -8): Hmmmmmmmm…I know what the math guy said up above, but I can't go against my Ducks...Not Yet. There’s a lot of wise guys thinking the same thing as me. Without a running game at USC, this thing turns into a scoring fest until the Duckies get to Barkley one too many times. But that won’t stop the Ducks from scoring a bunch of style points trying to improve their BCS Standings…..And did you know that the Oregon starting offense has only seen a total of something like 17 minutes of playing time in the 4th quarter for the ENTIRE SEASON? That means all the points they scored have been in 3 quarters of play. I see two bets here worth making:
Take the Ducks and lay the 8.5 for $80
Take the Over (70) for $70
Pitt (+17.5) @ Domers: Man….1 of the top 4 undefeated teams will get tested this weekend. I didn’t think it would be K-State or the Ducks, but The Domers and Bama each have tough games….Pitt’s not a pushover. Ask Va Tech. But, do they have what it takes to keep it within 17? PASS
BAMA @ LSU (+8.5): LSU getting points at home where they currently have the nation’s longest winning streak? Death Valley? Bama undefeated? There’s a reason they call it Death Valley, you know..….Against my better judgment….
Take LSU and the 8.5 for $30
Michigan (-11) @ Minnesota (MONDAY - Pick-Em)….Okay – I now must admit that a site that I had been using did NOT HAVE THE CORRECT LINE POSTED ON MONDAY. So, there’s no WAY I could have got Michigan over Minnesota even. The website I was using has been taken off my radar and I’m back to using a more reliable source. That being the case, I didn’t technically have a bet Monday and I can decide what to do with this mess today. I have to believe….HAVE TO BELIEVE (This is BAAADDDDD betting strategy) that the Wolverines fix their offensive problems and find the End Zone. The Gophers no longer play in the Magical Mystery Dome and something’s gotta give…
Take Michigan and lay the 11 for $50
Starting Bank: $777.50
Total Bet: $330
BANK: $447.50
Monday, October 29, 2012
Heartbreak Saturday
It’s kind of amazing, really. I couldn’t believe that at some point on Saturday night, the realization washed over me that 7 days and roughly 3 hours prior to the exact moment in time that I was presently in, roughly 11:30, I was one very happy person. That a mere week ago all was right with the world and I was actually looking toward the future and the potential that existed…
7 days and 3 hours later….
Not So Much…
Multiple reasons for my morass of emotion were playing out on TV screens all over the place. Visions of disbelief and worse, people who seemed genuinely happy with several outcomes that were completely baffling to me. One Michigan fan (which I had to explain to him that he was NOT a Michigan fan because of this) kept celebrating every Domer (JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!) score and fantastic play. Finally, unable to contain my frustration after another Tigers three up and three down coupled with a Michigan turn over and I confronted the guy.
“You call yourself a Michigan fan?” His reply. “Yeah, why?” I said, “Then why on God’s Green Earth are you HAPPY that the Domers are beating the Sooners? You should be pulling for Oklahoma if you’re a true Michigan fan.” And in response I got, “I don’t mind seeing Notre Dame win if they beat us and MSU. It makes us look better.”
My mind, or more importantly, my jaw stopped working. I simply didn’t know what to say or I was simply too drained to formulate an un-emotional, objective response to what I could only describe as a “Casual” Michigan Fan. Worse, I got the feeling this individual was a “casual” football fan as well. Meaning that he wouldn’t mind at all if the Domers played in the National Title game…And I so wanted to go where I’ve gone for the last 10 years. To explain how bad it would be for College Football to let Notre Dame into the National Title Game…
Which led me to the following thought picture:
Yeah…I know…It’s not pefect as the intersections assume some things that will neve be, but you get my point. On top of that, you had the Tigers getting beat again by the Giants…What’s happened to offense in this state??
I knew when DeRob went down that Michigan was in deep doo-doo. I was getting the feeling earlier when they couldn’t punch it into the end zone. Which makes (I don’t even like to type this) two games in a row where Michigan has NOT FOUND the End Zone…You know, that little strip at the end of the field with the writing in it…. It was another one of those games where nothing seemed to go right, yet everything was there for the taking. (Insert “Tigers” wherever “Michigan” appears in the last statement and you have a synopsis of the entire World Series, also.
So, what does it mean for Michigan going into the Final 4? Well, they have to win out in order to even have a shot at the B1G Title game. And they need a little help from their friends…Yeah, suddenly I’m rooting for Sparty on Saturday. And Minnesota and Iowa in subsequent weeks. Which means that Sparty is Michigan’s best shot at getting Nebraska back behind them in the Legends…..Yikes.
At one point I received a text from another fan that simply stated, “Every team I want to win tonight is losing….” And there were a lot of games to choose from. How can that be? As an avid fan, there should be one game out of the 6 or 7 that were on that you could say, “Okay, well…at least there’s THAT.”
I couldn’t find the one game on Saturday night that made me feel better….
So, what now for the….
BCS Mess
4 weeks to go in the regular season and looky who’s in the top 3 of the BCS…Domers (JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!), Satan’s Warriors and K-State. Before we get into all of the details, I’m going to sit on my original observation and would just love for the Domers to go undefeated and not make the National Title Game – and IF EVERYONE HOLDS SERVE AND DOES WHAT THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO DO, that should take care of itself. But, I have this sick feeling in the pit of my stomach that 2012 is going to be a weird year. And the weirdness has only just begun.
1. Satan’s Warriors: No surprise here. Until they are beat, they’re in the Championship.
2. K-State: Some are surprised by this rank, but when you beat the Laters in Norman, well, Computers like that. And Shellacking WVU didn’t hurt…
3. DOMERS: I don’t know what to say here anymore…We are ALL DUCKS FANS! OR K-STATE FANS! And Alabama Fans….
4. DUCKS: Need more quality wins and they have to hope that the rest of their competition wins out…And this is the week against USC.
5. LSU: In a great position as the first 1 loss team
6. Georgia: Just in case they win out, the pollsters want to keep these guys up there…
7. GATORLAND: Told you….Gatorland can only be a spoiler…
8. USC…Best 7-2 in the BCS
9. Florida State: Needs LOTS OF HELP
10. Louisville: Enjoy It. Charlie Strong will be coaching in the SEC next Season…
The Rest of the Mess
Sparty vs. Wiscy: What, did Wiscy figure this game didn’t matter this year as it has a paved road to the B1G championship? This has turned into a real rivalry when Wiscy used to own Sparty in Madison…Don’t understand what Bielema is thinking
GATORLAND vs. Puppy Dawgs: So, let me get this straight: First, the Dawgs lose horribly to The Ole Ball Coach, then the Ole Ball Coach loses HORRIBLY to Gatorland…..If A>B>C, shouldn’t the outcome of this game been GATROLAND DESTROYS PUPPY DOGS? For the love of Mike….Where’s the logic anymore…
Ducks vs. Colorado: Beat the spread. Beat the over. And could have got to 100 as the final score was the same as it was to start the 3rd quarter meaning Chip Kelly called off the Ducks…..
Idle Thoughts From Saturday
-SEC is eating their own…
-But Alabama won’t lose to MSU….
-Maybe, but no…
-Gene C. is so done at Auburn.
-Even with the $4M or so buyout…
-Texas A&M had to enjoy that victory…
-Washington is beating OSU? Come on BEAVERS!
-I like the Beavers…Really.
-Corvalis is just such a cool name for a city.
-Michigan is not looking good early.
-Come on! Catch the damn ball.
-Not another Field Goal.
-I like Gibbons, but why can’t this team punch it in?
-I think it goes back to Fitz…
-I won’t be sorry to see him go.
-I know he’s a senior and all, but I’m tired of thinking he’s going to get better.
-Tippy-toe into the line every time.
-This is Big 10 football.
-Put your head down and go.
-De-Rob….Say it isn’t so.
-This is approximately when I gave up.
-I didn’t think Bellomy was that bad…all things considered.
-All right….Maybe 44 yards after Bellomy took the field isn’t good…
-It wasn’t a good game.
-Kudos to the Husker Defensive Strategy “All Blitz, All the Time” once Bellomy took the field.
-This is what happens when you don’t have a running game (or Back).
-Get Fitz out of there….
-Is Devin all done at QB?
-Don’t Show the Latimore injury anymore…PLEASE…
-My stomach has been queasy from the first time I saw it…
-And they keep showing it…again and again and again…
-That has to totally suck…
-I guess the bright side is he’s alive? And with luck…can maybe play again?
-I dunno…Violent, nasty sport when looked at from that perspective.
-All thoughts and prayers going out to Latimore family…
-Final 4…Michigan Needs to win them all.
-And suddenly, Minnesota looks good. Frosh QB lit up Purdue.
-And Iowa is always tough.
-And I was most afraid of Northwestern going into the last 4 games.
-Not to mention OSU.
-Jeez…Can Michigan win one of those to get bowl eligible?
-At least two are at home…
More Idle Thoughts From the Weekend….
-Tigers ran into a buzz saw…
-And its name was the San Franciso Giants.
-As good as it felt to sweep the Yankees…I now know how the Yankee fans felt.
-One game would have at least dulled the ache a little…
-Whisk-whisk-whisk.....Whiskey!
The Hot Seat
For the first time all season, the weekly nominee DID NOT HOLD SERVE! Which means that Lacey Chabert has a shot of winning in the last 4 weeks, but if you don’t win your nomination week, well, you can pretty much kiss the finals good bye…
This week’s nominee caught the MMQ’s eye in several movies where I went, “Hey…who is that?” She was in Couple’s Retreat with a huge ensemble cast, The Heartbreak Kid with Ben Stiller, and most recently, Rock of Ages as the Rolling Stone reporter that does the deed with Stacy Jaxx….Without further ado: Malin Akerman!
One big Change: I moved Chizik to Numero Uno in honor of the A&M beatdown. John L will survive his contract, but Chizik might just lose his job first. Also, we might change the name of this to the “Race for Charlie Strong list.”
1. Gene Chizik: Losing to the Hawgs AND MSU in the same year gets you on the list…National Championships be damned! Question is: Who does Aburn, actually, anyone get if they fire the guys on this list? Petrino?
2. John L Smith – He’s only on a 10 month contract, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they canned him before then…To hire….WHO?
3. Derek Dooley: Needs a MAJOR win in the SEC
4. Mack Brown: I know, I know. But you didn’t think they would fire Joe Pa, either. Believe the MMQ when I say that his retirement or canning is nearer than you think…
5. Frank Spaziani: BC is a proud school that doesn’t get a lot of attention…. Until you lose to ARMY….And get a new AD looking to make a name for himself.
6. The Old Ball Coach: Can’t lose to your Alma Mater by double digits and not feel some heat.
6. (Tie) Paul Johnson. GT’s season has been an up and down roller coaster and losing to Middle Tennessee State should have had him on the list earlier…But he’s here now.
7. Pasqualoni – UCONN This team has not gotten better and only gotten a LOT worse since their Fiesta Bowl appearance two years ago…
8. Randy Edsall: Maryland is going to start thinking that with the ACC as screwed up as it is, why aren’t we winning more football games?
9. Kevin Wilson: But can Indiana really expect much more? Really?
10. Joker Phillips: Because someone at Kentucky cares….
11Brett Beilema – Wiscy. His fans have expectations now. Losing to MSU at home?
12. Tedford
The FMQ
I know my Ducks and that’s all I can say. I don’t know Michigan, Wiscy or Oklahoma….How could all of them let me down? All I know is there’s some jack-ass out there cackling with glee on the other side of all this….
Ducks (-45) at Colorado: It turns out this was the only game I should have bet on!
Take Oregon and lay the 45 for $100…WIN: Bank $190
Take the over (67) for $50…WIN: Bank $95
Sparty at Wiscy (-6.5):
Take Wiscy and lay the 6.5 for $50…LOSE
Michigan (+2.5) @ CORNSUCKERS:
Take Michigan and the 2.5 for $60….LOSE
Domers (+9.5 – Opening. Today: +12) @ Laters:
Take the Laters and lay the 9.5 for $60….LOSE
Parlay!
Ducks – Laters – Ducks & Buffs OVER for $20….LOSE
Starting Bank: $492.50
TOTAL WIN: $285
Bank: $777.50
Early Monday Odds
Texas Tech (+7) vs. Texas
Stanford (-27.5) @ Colorado
Iowa (+1) @ Indiana (I know…I had to read it twice, also)
Cornhuskers @ Sparty (-1.5)
Oregon (-7) @ USC Pitt (+17.5) @ DomersMichigan @ Minnesota (Pick-Em)….Jeez, This I can’t believe. I guess I have to take Michigan here today.
Special Comment: If you aren’t clicking on the “Great Moments in Michigan Football History” link, here’s what you either missed or are about to miss:
October 27th: Wrangler to Carter against Indiana, 1979
October 30th: Braylonfest against MSU
November 3rd: Clockgate
7 days and 3 hours later….
Not So Much…
Multiple reasons for my morass of emotion were playing out on TV screens all over the place. Visions of disbelief and worse, people who seemed genuinely happy with several outcomes that were completely baffling to me. One Michigan fan (which I had to explain to him that he was NOT a Michigan fan because of this) kept celebrating every Domer (JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!) score and fantastic play. Finally, unable to contain my frustration after another Tigers three up and three down coupled with a Michigan turn over and I confronted the guy.
“You call yourself a Michigan fan?” His reply. “Yeah, why?” I said, “Then why on God’s Green Earth are you HAPPY that the Domers are beating the Sooners? You should be pulling for Oklahoma if you’re a true Michigan fan.” And in response I got, “I don’t mind seeing Notre Dame win if they beat us and MSU. It makes us look better.”
My mind, or more importantly, my jaw stopped working. I simply didn’t know what to say or I was simply too drained to formulate an un-emotional, objective response to what I could only describe as a “Casual” Michigan Fan. Worse, I got the feeling this individual was a “casual” football fan as well. Meaning that he wouldn’t mind at all if the Domers played in the National Title game…And I so wanted to go where I’ve gone for the last 10 years. To explain how bad it would be for College Football to let Notre Dame into the National Title Game…
Which led me to the following thought picture:
Yeah…I know…It’s not pefect as the intersections assume some things that will neve be, but you get my point. On top of that, you had the Tigers getting beat again by the Giants…What’s happened to offense in this state??
I knew when DeRob went down that Michigan was in deep doo-doo. I was getting the feeling earlier when they couldn’t punch it into the end zone. Which makes (I don’t even like to type this) two games in a row where Michigan has NOT FOUND the End Zone…You know, that little strip at the end of the field with the writing in it…. It was another one of those games where nothing seemed to go right, yet everything was there for the taking. (Insert “Tigers” wherever “Michigan” appears in the last statement and you have a synopsis of the entire World Series, also.
So, what does it mean for Michigan going into the Final 4? Well, they have to win out in order to even have a shot at the B1G Title game. And they need a little help from their friends…Yeah, suddenly I’m rooting for Sparty on Saturday. And Minnesota and Iowa in subsequent weeks. Which means that Sparty is Michigan’s best shot at getting Nebraska back behind them in the Legends…..Yikes.
At one point I received a text from another fan that simply stated, “Every team I want to win tonight is losing….” And there were a lot of games to choose from. How can that be? As an avid fan, there should be one game out of the 6 or 7 that were on that you could say, “Okay, well…at least there’s THAT.”
I couldn’t find the one game on Saturday night that made me feel better….
So, what now for the….
BCS Mess
4 weeks to go in the regular season and looky who’s in the top 3 of the BCS…Domers (JEEZ I HATE THESE GUYS!), Satan’s Warriors and K-State. Before we get into all of the details, I’m going to sit on my original observation and would just love for the Domers to go undefeated and not make the National Title Game – and IF EVERYONE HOLDS SERVE AND DOES WHAT THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO DO, that should take care of itself. But, I have this sick feeling in the pit of my stomach that 2012 is going to be a weird year. And the weirdness has only just begun.
1. Satan’s Warriors: No surprise here. Until they are beat, they’re in the Championship.
2. K-State: Some are surprised by this rank, but when you beat the Laters in Norman, well, Computers like that. And Shellacking WVU didn’t hurt…
3. DOMERS: I don’t know what to say here anymore…We are ALL DUCKS FANS! OR K-STATE FANS! And Alabama Fans….
4. DUCKS: Need more quality wins and they have to hope that the rest of their competition wins out…And this is the week against USC.
5. LSU: In a great position as the first 1 loss team
6. Georgia: Just in case they win out, the pollsters want to keep these guys up there…
7. GATORLAND: Told you….Gatorland can only be a spoiler…
8. USC…Best 7-2 in the BCS
9. Florida State: Needs LOTS OF HELP
10. Louisville: Enjoy It. Charlie Strong will be coaching in the SEC next Season…
The Rest of the Mess
Sparty vs. Wiscy: What, did Wiscy figure this game didn’t matter this year as it has a paved road to the B1G championship? This has turned into a real rivalry when Wiscy used to own Sparty in Madison…Don’t understand what Bielema is thinking
GATORLAND vs. Puppy Dawgs: So, let me get this straight: First, the Dawgs lose horribly to The Ole Ball Coach, then the Ole Ball Coach loses HORRIBLY to Gatorland…..If A>B>C, shouldn’t the outcome of this game been GATROLAND DESTROYS PUPPY DOGS? For the love of Mike….Where’s the logic anymore…
Ducks vs. Colorado: Beat the spread. Beat the over. And could have got to 100 as the final score was the same as it was to start the 3rd quarter meaning Chip Kelly called off the Ducks…..
Idle Thoughts From Saturday
-SEC is eating their own…
-But Alabama won’t lose to MSU….
-Maybe, but no…
-Gene C. is so done at Auburn.
-Even with the $4M or so buyout…
-Texas A&M had to enjoy that victory…
-Washington is beating OSU? Come on BEAVERS!
-I like the Beavers…Really.
-Corvalis is just such a cool name for a city.
-Michigan is not looking good early.
-Come on! Catch the damn ball.
-Not another Field Goal.
-I like Gibbons, but why can’t this team punch it in?
-I think it goes back to Fitz…
-I won’t be sorry to see him go.
-I know he’s a senior and all, but I’m tired of thinking he’s going to get better.
-Tippy-toe into the line every time.
-This is Big 10 football.
-Put your head down and go.
-De-Rob….Say it isn’t so.
-This is approximately when I gave up.
-I didn’t think Bellomy was that bad…all things considered.
-All right….Maybe 44 yards after Bellomy took the field isn’t good…
-It wasn’t a good game.
-Kudos to the Husker Defensive Strategy “All Blitz, All the Time” once Bellomy took the field.
-This is what happens when you don’t have a running game (or Back).
-Get Fitz out of there….
-Is Devin all done at QB?
-Don’t Show the Latimore injury anymore…PLEASE…
-My stomach has been queasy from the first time I saw it…
-And they keep showing it…again and again and again…
-That has to totally suck…
-I guess the bright side is he’s alive? And with luck…can maybe play again?
-I dunno…Violent, nasty sport when looked at from that perspective.
-All thoughts and prayers going out to Latimore family…
-Final 4…Michigan Needs to win them all.
-And suddenly, Minnesota looks good. Frosh QB lit up Purdue.
-And Iowa is always tough.
-And I was most afraid of Northwestern going into the last 4 games.
-Not to mention OSU.
-Jeez…Can Michigan win one of those to get bowl eligible?
-At least two are at home…
More Idle Thoughts From the Weekend….
-Tigers ran into a buzz saw…
-And its name was the San Franciso Giants.
-As good as it felt to sweep the Yankees…I now know how the Yankee fans felt.
-One game would have at least dulled the ache a little…
-Whisk-whisk-whisk.....Whiskey!
The Hot Seat
For the first time all season, the weekly nominee DID NOT HOLD SERVE! Which means that Lacey Chabert has a shot of winning in the last 4 weeks, but if you don’t win your nomination week, well, you can pretty much kiss the finals good bye…
This week’s nominee caught the MMQ’s eye in several movies where I went, “Hey…who is that?” She was in Couple’s Retreat with a huge ensemble cast, The Heartbreak Kid with Ben Stiller, and most recently, Rock of Ages as the Rolling Stone reporter that does the deed with Stacy Jaxx….Without further ado: Malin Akerman!
One big Change: I moved Chizik to Numero Uno in honor of the A&M beatdown. John L will survive his contract, but Chizik might just lose his job first. Also, we might change the name of this to the “Race for Charlie Strong list.”
1. Gene Chizik: Losing to the Hawgs AND MSU in the same year gets you on the list…National Championships be damned! Question is: Who does Aburn, actually, anyone get if they fire the guys on this list? Petrino?
2. John L Smith – He’s only on a 10 month contract, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they canned him before then…To hire….WHO?
3. Derek Dooley: Needs a MAJOR win in the SEC
4. Mack Brown: I know, I know. But you didn’t think they would fire Joe Pa, either. Believe the MMQ when I say that his retirement or canning is nearer than you think…
5. Frank Spaziani: BC is a proud school that doesn’t get a lot of attention…. Until you lose to ARMY….And get a new AD looking to make a name for himself.
6. The Old Ball Coach: Can’t lose to your Alma Mater by double digits and not feel some heat.
6. (Tie) Paul Johnson. GT’s season has been an up and down roller coaster and losing to Middle Tennessee State should have had him on the list earlier…But he’s here now.
7. Pasqualoni – UCONN This team has not gotten better and only gotten a LOT worse since their Fiesta Bowl appearance two years ago…
8. Randy Edsall: Maryland is going to start thinking that with the ACC as screwed up as it is, why aren’t we winning more football games?
9. Kevin Wilson: But can Indiana really expect much more? Really?
10. Joker Phillips: Because someone at Kentucky cares….
11Brett Beilema – Wiscy. His fans have expectations now. Losing to MSU at home?
12. Tedford
The FMQ
I know my Ducks and that’s all I can say. I don’t know Michigan, Wiscy or Oklahoma….How could all of them let me down? All I know is there’s some jack-ass out there cackling with glee on the other side of all this….
Ducks (-45) at Colorado: It turns out this was the only game I should have bet on!
Take Oregon and lay the 45 for $100…WIN: Bank $190
Take the over (67) for $50…WIN: Bank $95
Sparty at Wiscy (-6.5):
Take Wiscy and lay the 6.5 for $50…LOSE
Michigan (+2.5) @ CORNSUCKERS:
Take Michigan and the 2.5 for $60….LOSE
Domers (+9.5 – Opening. Today: +12) @ Laters:
Take the Laters and lay the 9.5 for $60….LOSE
Parlay!
Ducks – Laters – Ducks & Buffs OVER for $20….LOSE
Starting Bank: $492.50
TOTAL WIN: $285
Bank: $777.50
Early Monday Odds
Texas Tech (+7) vs. Texas
Stanford (-27.5) @ Colorado
Iowa (+1) @ Indiana (I know…I had to read it twice, also)
Cornhuskers @ Sparty (-1.5)
Oregon (-7) @ USC Pitt (+17.5) @ DomersMichigan @ Minnesota (Pick-Em)….Jeez, This I can’t believe. I guess I have to take Michigan here today.
Special Comment: If you aren’t clicking on the “Great Moments in Michigan Football History” link, here’s what you either missed or are about to miss:
October 27th: Wrangler to Carter against Indiana, 1979
October 30th: Braylonfest against MSU
November 3rd: Clockgate
Friday, October 26, 2012
Cornsucker Friday!
Well….A few people e-mailed and said I was too hard on Sparty in Monday’s write up. A LOT of people e-mailed and said, “YEAH, BABY!” So, the Ayes have it with respect to how Sparty needed to be put in their place after 4 years of misery in the State of Michigan.
Kind of makes you wonder how Sparty will deal with that against Wiscy this weekend. Did you kow: The Italian Stallion (Dantonio) hadn’t lost BACK TO BACK B1G games in his 4 years at Spartyland? That’s kind of an impressive statistic. And now, he has an opportunity to lose 3 in a row. Wiscy is playing better than the early season and Sparty NEVER does well in Madison. Those are some of the worst blow-outs in Sparty history. So, again, I ask the question: Is this SOS or are we going to see something special Saturday?
I want to type GO TIGERS with enthusiasm, but anyone who watched the first two games knows what I’m feeling right now - and I know how you're feeling, too. After witnessing what can only be described as a Six Sigma event on Wednesday night (Ball hitting the bag and Kung Fu Panda hitting 3 HR’s...Like ANY OF THAT that happens all the time…) we had to endure Thursday night and the freakish line drive that went off Fister’s melon and into the outfield. How that guy was still standing and was able to keep hurling it is amazing to me. I guess it looked worse on TV than it actually was? But how?
Anyway, I haven’t given up hope on the Tigers and can only speculate that the colder weather will help us more than it does San Fran….
Enough about all that’s happening in Sports and on to this week’s picks!
(Side note: I don’t know what is happening with the Hot Seat Mascot Voting. I have an inquiry in to figure out what happened and hopefully get it corrected.)
This Week’s Picks:
Ducks (-45) at Colorado: Ducks will roll the Buffs…But can they cover? I think this game is going to get ugly. Colorado ranks DEAD LAST in Defense in Division 1A (that's number 158 - and they are probably worse than that). And we know what the Ducks can do on Offense. Not to mention that Chip Kelly is PISSED that the Ducks dropped in the BCS Standings. Look for an ugly, ugly beat down of the poor Buffs….Seriously. It could get to triple digits. I feel so strongly about this that we’re going a little off the page here and betting more than we should…Something about never looking a gift horse in the mouth….
Take Oregon and lay the 45 for $100
Take the over (67) for $50
Sparty at Wiscy (-6.5): Sparty has ALWAYS had a hard time playing in Madison, as mentioned above, and SOS is back in the HOUSE! Let’s just lock this on in at 6.5 and go with the Badgers! I did that on Monday and the line has moved to 6. I thought it would move the other way (the Badgers having to lay more) but Vegas is impressed with Sparty’s ability to keep it close. I still like the Badgers in cold weather in Madison
Take Wiscy and lay the 6.5 for $50
OSU at PSU (-2.5): Is Braxton in or out? Frankly, doesn’t matter. In what is being tabbed as the B1G’s “Violation Bowl”, I’m thinking that PSU might be the better team, but I simply can’t trust them to do what they are supposed to do. If Braxton plays, that will be the first time PSU has seen him and it may pose problems for that defense. PASS
Michigan (+2.5) @ CORNSUCKERS: I think Michigan is on a roll…This would almost put B1G Legends out of reach. I always like Michigan getting points, especially with DeRob at the controls and even though we whiffed last week with the Maize and Blue, after watching part of last year’s game against these same Cornsuckers, I’m liking Michigan. Look for the Defense to get after Martinez…
Take Michigan and the 2.5 for $60
Domers (+9.5 – Opening. Today: +12) @ Laters: I’m glad I jumped on this line early on Monday. That’s a huge point spread move and that means wise guy money is betting the Laters HARD. This game has been talked about and built up so much that I think it’s beginning to look like the classic “Close match-up on paper that turns into a blow-out.” Stoops needs a BIG WIN to settle his critics and nobody thought the Domers could run the table this year. I had them at 10 wins thinking they could beat the Laters, but now….Not so much. Still 10 wins, but this is the week the Domers go down…Bad.
Take the Laters and lay the 9.5 for $60
Parlay!
I’m avoiding Michigan this week, but going with three that I feel most strongly on:
Ducks – Laters – Ducks & Buffs OVER for $20
Starting Bank: $832.50
TOTAL BET: $340
Bank: $492.50
Kind of makes you wonder how Sparty will deal with that against Wiscy this weekend. Did you kow: The Italian Stallion (Dantonio) hadn’t lost BACK TO BACK B1G games in his 4 years at Spartyland? That’s kind of an impressive statistic. And now, he has an opportunity to lose 3 in a row. Wiscy is playing better than the early season and Sparty NEVER does well in Madison. Those are some of the worst blow-outs in Sparty history. So, again, I ask the question: Is this SOS or are we going to see something special Saturday?
I want to type GO TIGERS with enthusiasm, but anyone who watched the first two games knows what I’m feeling right now - and I know how you're feeling, too. After witnessing what can only be described as a Six Sigma event on Wednesday night (Ball hitting the bag and Kung Fu Panda hitting 3 HR’s...Like ANY OF THAT that happens all the time…) we had to endure Thursday night and the freakish line drive that went off Fister’s melon and into the outfield. How that guy was still standing and was able to keep hurling it is amazing to me. I guess it looked worse on TV than it actually was? But how?
Anyway, I haven’t given up hope on the Tigers and can only speculate that the colder weather will help us more than it does San Fran….
Enough about all that’s happening in Sports and on to this week’s picks!
(Side note: I don’t know what is happening with the Hot Seat Mascot Voting. I have an inquiry in to figure out what happened and hopefully get it corrected.)
This Week’s Picks:
Ducks (-45) at Colorado: Ducks will roll the Buffs…But can they cover? I think this game is going to get ugly. Colorado ranks DEAD LAST in Defense in Division 1A (that's number 158 - and they are probably worse than that). And we know what the Ducks can do on Offense. Not to mention that Chip Kelly is PISSED that the Ducks dropped in the BCS Standings. Look for an ugly, ugly beat down of the poor Buffs….Seriously. It could get to triple digits. I feel so strongly about this that we’re going a little off the page here and betting more than we should…Something about never looking a gift horse in the mouth….
Take Oregon and lay the 45 for $100
Take the over (67) for $50
Sparty at Wiscy (-6.5): Sparty has ALWAYS had a hard time playing in Madison, as mentioned above, and SOS is back in the HOUSE! Let’s just lock this on in at 6.5 and go with the Badgers! I did that on Monday and the line has moved to 6. I thought it would move the other way (the Badgers having to lay more) but Vegas is impressed with Sparty’s ability to keep it close. I still like the Badgers in cold weather in Madison
Take Wiscy and lay the 6.5 for $50
OSU at PSU (-2.5): Is Braxton in or out? Frankly, doesn’t matter. In what is being tabbed as the B1G’s “Violation Bowl”, I’m thinking that PSU might be the better team, but I simply can’t trust them to do what they are supposed to do. If Braxton plays, that will be the first time PSU has seen him and it may pose problems for that defense. PASS
Michigan (+2.5) @ CORNSUCKERS: I think Michigan is on a roll…This would almost put B1G Legends out of reach. I always like Michigan getting points, especially with DeRob at the controls and even though we whiffed last week with the Maize and Blue, after watching part of last year’s game against these same Cornsuckers, I’m liking Michigan. Look for the Defense to get after Martinez…
Take Michigan and the 2.5 for $60
Domers (+9.5 – Opening. Today: +12) @ Laters: I’m glad I jumped on this line early on Monday. That’s a huge point spread move and that means wise guy money is betting the Laters HARD. This game has been talked about and built up so much that I think it’s beginning to look like the classic “Close match-up on paper that turns into a blow-out.” Stoops needs a BIG WIN to settle his critics and nobody thought the Domers could run the table this year. I had them at 10 wins thinking they could beat the Laters, but now….Not so much. Still 10 wins, but this is the week the Domers go down…Bad.
Take the Laters and lay the 9.5 for $60
Parlay!
I’m avoiding Michigan this week, but going with three that I feel most strongly on:
Ducks – Laters – Ducks & Buffs OVER for $20
Starting Bank: $832.50
TOTAL BET: $340
Bank: $492.50
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