Before anyone makes more predictions, they should review the ones that they already have made. It is for this reason that after every sport season for which I make predictions, I go back and review those predictions. To see what I got right and what I got oh so horribly wrong. I will start out there with my two sets of college football predictions and then go into my 1st bit of talking about the NFL Draft. Buckle up, because it is the accountability thread. You get to say you told me so, if you told me so that is...
For college football, I did two prediction posts. There was one full of ACC predictions and one for the entire country. Both sets of predictions were filled with a lot of accurate statements, some 1/2 true statements, some inaccurate statements, and some categorically false statements. Let's start with the good....
Derwin James is/was FSU's best player on defense. It has been widely acknowledged. Unfortunately, for him and for my predictions, he got injured for the duration of the season in week 2. While that slighlty affected many of my predictions, my overall one about the ACC Atlantic rang true. There were three really good teams in the ACC Atlantic. FSU finished 8th with a New Years 6 bowl win, Clemson won the national championship, and Louisville spent most of the season in the Top 5 until a late season collapse. That Louisville team was the most dangerous for FSU early for numerous reasons and they took FSU to the woodshed. I was correct in saying that game would be FSU's most likely loss. I also called Lemar Jackson as a serious Heisman contender and said that he would be named player of the year. Deondre Francois was the top newcomer for the ACC also as he won the ACC Rookie of the Year. I hit on 5/11 1st team All ACC Offense predictions. There were also 5/11 correct on the defensive side this year.
Nationally, I did not do as well as I did in the ACC, but I still had some success. My 5 darkhorse teams were all hits. The worst one of the group was a 7-6 team that knocked off Louisville. Every other darkhorse team won at least 9 games and all exceeded expectations. Wisconsin was tops with an 11 win season and New Years 6 bowl win, but Oklahoma State also had 10 wins. The big 12 missed the playoffs as predicted. I was correct that the SEC East favorite, Tennessee, would not win the division. Washington made the playoff and were my one correct prediction there. While I missed them in the playoff, I said Alabama and Clemson had a better chance to win the championship than most the teams I had in and that proved true. All 10 of the teams I had predicted to have a great shot at the title were contenders at one point as well, with the exception of LSU. Clemson v. Florida State and Florida State v. Ole Miss were both thrilling matchups as predicted. I had one Heisman finalist correct (Baker Mayfield) even though that finalist shouldn't have been really invited. On offense I hit on 3/11 AP All American selections. Defensively, I only had Alabama standout Jonathan Allen correct. Now, for things I can justify getting wrong.
The easiest one to justify is both FSU's record and Derwin James' postseason awards. First in regards to the record, I said Clemson would be a major challenge and that the ACC was loaded. Derwin James injury in week 2 changed the complexion of the season. He is that special of a talent. Because he was injured for basically the entire season, he was unable to collect any postseason awards.
LSU's season I have no justification for, but Leonard Fournette didn't have the season he was expecting because he didn't have the same volume he has had in the past. 6.5 yards a carry is incredible, but he had 171 fewer attempts this season than last season.
Now the predictions I just can't justify they were just bad....
LSU winning the SEC! What the heck was I thinking. Bama owns the SEC. LSU lost to one of my darkhorse teams in week 1 (Wisconsin) and struggled. They would ultimately fire their coach.
Only 1 All-American correct prediction on defense. Embarrassing! Will have to watch more film next season.
Texas fired their coach and lost to Kansas! Yikes! They did not take a step forward as expected and Charlie Strong ultimately lost his job because of it.
Alabama v. USC was not a good game. Alabama dismantled USC in a way that most Tide fans didn't even expect to happen.
John O'Korn was not a Heisman darkhorse candidate. He was not even the starting QB at the end of the season for Michigan. This is one of the worst predictions of all-time. At least I had him as a darkhorse candidate and not a finalist though.
Miami actually exceeded my expectations too. They finished ranked and 9-4. I predicted 7-5 and for them to be a disappointment. They were not. Richt did a fine job.
My predictions were pretty solid despite only hitting on 1/4 playoff teams. Most of them were at least partially true or I had solid justification for them. Now onto the draft!!!
There will be a lot more about the draft to come, but let me get it started by just briefly talking about the top Seminoles on the board.
Dalvin Cook RB
Projection: Top 10 Pick
I project that Dalvin Cook will be a top 10 pick and the 1st RB off the board. He is one of the most complete backs to come out in a long time. Cook is the whole package. He can run, has elite speed, has hands, and can block. This guy is a special player and a game changer. I hope he lasts until the Bucs as a Tampa fan, but don't see it happening. More to come on Dalvin in later entries.
DeMarcus Walker DE
Projection: Late 1st
DeMarcus Walker did himself well returning to school as he was the Seminoles team leader on and off the field. It also did not hurt that he led the nation in sacks. This guy is a classic example of the fact that it can benefit a player to return to school. His draft stock soared following his senior season. I just hope the guy gets into the best situation for him. Walker led the first Seminoles class to go 4-0 against both Miami and Florida. This guy is a winner, and his work ethic could really help a lot of teams for the 2017 season....
- Noland
Showing posts with label Clemson Tigers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Clemson Tigers. Show all posts
7.22.2015
2015-16 ACC Football Predictions
It is football season! That time of year is upon us and I for one am excited to watch this season with my family. This year I decided to do things a little differently and expand on my previous football predictions. Typically, I have done one college football preview and one NFL preview. This year I am going to do 2 college previews and my pro football preview. In addition to this ACC preview, I will do an overall college football preview. For the professional ranks, I will just do my overall
The ACC has long been dominated by the Florida State Seminoles. Since entering the ACC in 1992, the Seminoles have won the conference 15 times. Out of 22 seasons, 15 times is an incredible accomplishment. That means FSU has won the ACC 68% of the time since it has been in the conference. It has to be some kind of record. Florida State has won the conference the last 3 years and has not lost a conference games since 2012. So the obvious question is, can any team that can challenge FSU for the ACC crown in 2015?
The Seminoles have their own issues in replacing a record 29 drafted NFL prospects in a 3 year period. They also have to replace one of the most productive quarterbacks in NFL history in Jameis Winston. That guy never lost a regular season game and was 26-1 as a starter. However, when considering this fact, remember that FSU is recruiting at a national championship level. Also consider that the last time FSU had to replace 10+ draft picks and a 1st round QB, they had one of the greatest teams ever and set the NCAA scoring record. That can't be expected this time, but can't be discounted either. Jimbo will have the boys ready to go, but they will have plenty of competition from the other schools in conference play.
Stay tuned next week for my College Football Preview.
-Noland
The ACC has long been dominated by the Florida State Seminoles. Since entering the ACC in 1992, the Seminoles have won the conference 15 times. Out of 22 seasons, 15 times is an incredible accomplishment. That means FSU has won the ACC 68% of the time since it has been in the conference. It has to be some kind of record. Florida State has won the conference the last 3 years and has not lost a conference games since 2012. So the obvious question is, can any team that can challenge FSU for the ACC crown in 2015?
The Seminoles have their own issues in replacing a record 29 drafted NFL prospects in a 3 year period. They also have to replace one of the most productive quarterbacks in NFL history in Jameis Winston. That guy never lost a regular season game and was 26-1 as a starter. However, when considering this fact, remember that FSU is recruiting at a national championship level. Also consider that the last time FSU had to replace 10+ draft picks and a 1st round QB, they had one of the greatest teams ever and set the NCAA scoring record. That can't be expected this time, but can't be discounted either. Jimbo will have the boys ready to go, but they will have plenty of competition from the other schools in conference play.
ACC Darkhorse
The team that can and will surprise everyone by being a conference threat is Boston College. There actually is a way that this could break and make the Eagles a national contender. This team is incredibly well coached and has been overachieving for years. It could all be put together now that they have some athletes. All this talk seems crazy as BC lost the most players and is picked in the lower half by most analysts. However, Addazio has been terrific for BC and this team had some terrific wins against Southern Cal (a national contender) and others. They also have given Florida State fits since joining the conference and get to play them on a Friday Night this year early. Just getting FSU early in the season and being able to have the opportunity to possibly knock them off is enough to list them as a darkhorse team.
Biggest Threats To FSU
The top threat to FSU is Georgia Tech based on scheme alone. They also host the Seminoles in 2015. Based on a weak Coastal Division, they likely will ease into the conference championship game again against the Seminoles. If GT can beat FSU or Clemson 2x, this team could be headed to the college football playoff. They are quite capable of pulling this thing off.
Another top threat to FSU is obviously Clemson, who will be the trendy pick to win the conference. Clemson has incredible talent and it starts with super QB Deshaun Watson. The most dynamic playmaker in the league is Watson and he will look to lead the Tigers behind an all new offensive line. The Tigers have the talent to pull a conference championship off, but they are replacing nearly all their starters on both lines. Clemson also lost a starting tackle recently as they are entering the supplemental draft.
Louisville lost more NFL talent than every team in conference other than Florida State, but with one of the best coaching staffs in the country, will likely be a force as well.
Finally, Virginia Tech with a young improving offense and an always impressive defense will also be a bit of a threat to win the conference.
Who Wins The Conference
Despite losing all the talent they have lost, you have to believe that the Florida State Seminoles will repeat as ACC Champions. They have owned this conference and the rest of the conference has questions just like the Seminoles do. I do not expect Florida State to have another undefeated season or roll through the competition like they have been doing, but these guys are my pick to win it. They will be my pick to win it until somebody shows me otherwise.
5 Questions and Answers
1) What will happen to the Seminoles running game with Dalvin Cook's legal issues?
If Dalvin Cook is guilty then he will be kicked off of Florida State's team and they will have to turn to Mario Pender and Jacques Patrick to carry the load. Both are very capable backs and will have fine seasons, but there is no doubt the loss of Cook will hurt. Assuming Cook is innocent, he will be on the field next season and he will be more dominant than ever. If Cook is able to play, then Florida State has arguably the best running game in the country.
2) How many regular season games will Florida State lose?
Florida State has not lost a regular season game since losing to the Florida Gators at home in 2012. That is one incredible stretch of excellence that likely comes to an end this year. My guess is that they will lose one or two games this season and if I had to pick which opponent will beat them, I'd probably go with Boston College.
3) Is Everett Golson now the best quarterback in the conference?
No, at best Golson is third best in the conference behind Watson and Brissett. There is also no guarantee that Golson will even start at FSU at this point. He is a Heisman candidate and will likely be a force with Jimbo Fisher, but not the best QB in conference.
4) Who is the most talented player in the conference?
Jalen Ramsey is the most talented player in the conference and maybe in the entire country. He is an All-American track athlete and will be All-American in football this year. Ramsey will be a Top 5 pick in next April's draft. He is a rare talent.
5) How will the new coaches fare in 2015?
Pat Narduzzi was a fantastic hire for Pitt and will improve the team each year. He doesn't have too much talent though and it is hard to see him winning much more than 8 games this season. Narduzzi is the only new head coach in the ACC this season.
Offense All Conference Picks
QB Jacoby Brissett NC State
RB James Connor Pittsburgh
RB Jon Hillman Boston College
WR Artavis Scott Clemson
WR George Campbell Florida State
TE Bucky Hodges Virginia Tech
C Matt Skura Duke
G Landon Turner North Carolina
G Dorian Johnson Pittsburgh
T Roderick Johnson Florida State
T Bryan Chamberlain Georgia Tech
Defense All Conference Picks
DE Demarcus Walker Florida State
DE Sheldon Rankins Louisville
DT Adam Gotsis Georgia Tech
DT Nile Lawrence-Stample Florida State
LB Steven Daniels Boston College
LB Terrance Smith Florida State
LB Reggie Northrup Florida State
CB Kendall Fuller Virginia Tech
CB Jalen Ramsey Florida State
S Quin Blanding Virginia
S Derwin James Florida State
All Conference Specialists
K Roberto Aguayo Florida State
P Justin Vogel Miami
KR/PR Tyler Boyd Pittsburgh
Players of the Year
Offense Jacoby Brissett NC State
Defense Jalen Ramsey Florida State
Coach of the Year
JIMBO FISHER!!!!!!!!
Fisher actually probably won't win because he never does, but he should. He has Florida State playing at an absolutely incredible level and doesn't show any sign of slowing down anytime soon. I think it will actually be Steve Addazio who deserves the award as well.
-Noland
11.26.2014
Super Conference Option 2
A while back before any of us knew what the college football playoff would look like, I cautioned that we should be realistic about it. In this article I said that it won't solve everything. That was way back in December 2013 and early returns and rankings look like I am right. Controversy is sure to follow, but is there a better solution? Expanding the playoffs is truly not the answer so I came up with two other options. So this option is my 3rd. This is the 2nd Super Conference Option, but my third option overall.
Option 1
Option 2
This option is very similar to Option 2. In fact, you could say it's the same thing. There is one major difference though, in this scenario the Big 12 beats the ACC to the punch and expands to 20 first. This is actually started by the Big 10 who takes Virginia and Duke. Therefore, the conferences align differently and different teams will be left out. The rivalries will also shift slightly as a result, but here are the ground rules again.
"4 conferences
20 teams
2 divisions in each conference
9 intra-division matchups
1 rotating opponent from the other division
1 cross-division rivalry game
1 out of conference rivalry game
These rivals will be posted in parentheses next to the teams below
Some teams are without a true cross division rival, so I will have to make up a rivalry."
BIG Conference (Formerly Big 10)
Eastern Division
Boston College (Notre Dame, Miami)
Duke (Northwestern, North Carolina)
Indiana (Purdue, Vanderbilt)
Maryland (Nebraska , North Carolina State)
Ohio State (Michigan, Cincinnati)
Penn State (Iowa, Temple)
Pittsburgh (Wisconsin, West Virginia)
Rutgers (Minnesota, Louisville)
Syracuse (Illinois, Tennessee)
Virginia (Michigan State, Virginia Tech)
Western Division
Illinois (Syracuse, California)
Iowa (Penn State, Iowa State)
Michigan (Ohio State, Stanford)
Michigan State (Virginia, Oregon)
Minnesota (Rutgers, UCLA)
Nebraska (Maryland, Oklahoma)
Northwestern (Duke, Washington)
Notre Dame (Boston College, Southern Cal)
Purdue (Indiana, Arizona)
Wisconsin (Pittsburgh, Arizona State)
The first strike against a former Power 5 conference in this scenario is Duke and Virginia leaving the ACC for the Big 10. After that major coup, Notre Dame decides to join the Big 10 figuring the ACC is done for. Once the Group of 5 leaves for the Big 10, Syracuse, BC, and Pitt are practically begging to join the Big 10.
Let's look at the updated Ohio State schedule and see how the Big 10 improved. Actual opponent in parentheses unless it is the same opponent.
8/30 Ohio State @ Boston College (@Navy)
9/6 Virginia @ Ohio State (Virginia Tech)
9/13 Syracuse @ Ohio State (Kent State)
9/27 Cincinnati @ Ohio State
10/4 Ohio State @ Maryland
10/18 Rutgers @ Ohio State
10/25 Ohio State @ Penn State
11/1 Ohio State @ Pittsburgh (Illinois Home)
11/8 Ohio State @ Duke (@ Michigan State)
11/15 Ohio State @ Minnesota
11/22 Indiana @ Ohio State
11/29 Michigan @ Ohio State
You add a road game under this scenario for Ohio State and you replace Virginia Tech, Kent State, and Illinois with Virginia, Syracuse, and Pittsburgh. Those are all upgrades in my opinion. The one downgrade may be Duke v. Michigan State, but that is highly debatable as Duke is a quality opponent. Then Ohio State will likely have to face Michigan State in the title IF they win this side.
Liberty Conference (Formerly Big 12)
Eastern Division
Central Florida (Baylor, East Carolina)
Cincinnati (Iowa State, Ohio State)
Clemson (Texas, South Carolina)
Florida State (Oklahoma, Florida)
Georgia Tech (Texas Tech, Georgia)
Marshall (Kansas, Kentucky)
Miami (Kansas State, Boston College)
Temple (TCU, Penn State)
Virginia Tech (Boise State, Virginia)
West Virginia (Oklahoma State, Pittsburgh)
Western Division
Baylor (Central Florida, Houston)
Boise State (Virginia Tech, UNLV)
Iowa State (Cincinnati, Iowa)
Kansas (Marshall, Missouri)
Kansas State (Miami, Colorado)
Oklahoma (Florida State, Nebraska)
Oklahoma State (West Virginia, Oregon State)
TCU (Temple, Southern Methodist)
Texas (Clemson, Texas A & M)
Texas Tech (Georgia Tech, UTEP)
The Big 12 acts first to expand in this scenario to get to a stronger 20 than the ACC so they are the automatic qualifier. The first team they add is Boise State adding them to their stable of classic Big 12 teams to form a Western division. They then need to add 9 teams East to go with WVU. They add Central Florida, Cincinnati, Marshall, and Temple also within the first week. They are prepared to add more mid majors, but not wanting to be left out of the playoff, FSU, Clemson, and Georgia Tech decide to bring along Miami and Virginia Tech and head to the Big 12. Realizing 12 is stupid to have as the name for a conference with 20 teams, they finally change the conference name. The new Liberty Conference ends up being the strongest conference of all.
Now let's look at the Noles schedule to prove it's strength.
8/30 Florida State @ Oklahoma State (same game in Dallas)
9/6 Oklahoma @ Florida State (Citadel)
9/20 Clemson @ Florida State
9/27 Florida State @ Temple (@ North Carolina State)
10/4 Virginia Tech @ Florida State (Wake Forest)
10/11 Florida State @ Marshall (@Syracuse)
10/18 Cincinnati @ Florida State (Notre Dame)
11/1 Florida State @ Georgia Tech (@ Louisville 10/30)
11/8 Central Florida @ Florida State (Virginia)
11/15 Florida State @ Miami
11/22 Florida State @ West Virginia (Boston College Home)
11/29 Florida @ Florida State
There is no doubt that this schedule is more difficult. Georgia Tech is the 2nd best team in the ACC and the Noles would be playing them yearly. Adding Oklahoma to the schedule is no easy task. There is no more Wake Forest and Syracuse beatdown games either.
Pacific Athletic Conference (Formerly PAC 12)
Northern Division
BYU (UNLV, Mississippi State)
California (Stanford, Illinois)
Colorado (Fresno State, Kansas State)
Colorado State (Nevada, Arkansas)
Oregon (Arizona, Michigan State)
Oregon State (UCLA, Oklahoma State)
Utah (Houston, Alabama)
Utah State (UTEP, Memphis)
Washington (Southern Cal, Northwestern)
Washington State (Arizona State, LSU)
Southern Division
Arizona (Oregon, Purdue)
Arizona State (Washington State, Wisconsin)
Fresno State (Colorado, Mississippi)
Houston (Utah, Baylor)
Nevada (Colorado State, Auburn)
Southern Cal (Washington, Notre Dame)
Stanford (California, Stanford)
UCLA (Oregon State, Minnesota)
UNLV (BYU, Boise State)
UTEP (Utah State, Texas Tech)
The Pac 12 moves after the Big 12 and Big 10 get started, but does decent work in expansion again. Realizing they are moving to twenty and might need to change numbers again, they decide to drop the number and simply become the PAC. They also realize the Big 12 is sticking after they expand with some strong mid majors and decide to add their own mid majors, starting with BYU. Once BYU is in the fold, they add some other teams.
Let's look at Utah State's upgraded schedule to see the impact on a quality mid major.
8/31 Utah State @ UTEP (@ Tennessee)
9/6 Colorado @ Utah State (Idaho State)
9/13 Washington State @ Utah State (Wake Forest)
9/20 Utah State @ Arizona State (@ Arkansas State)
10/3 Utah State @ Oregon (@ BYU)
10/10 Washington @ Utah State (Air Force)
10/18 Utah State @ Colorado State
10/25 UNLV @ Utah State
11/1 Utah State @ Oregon State (@ Hawaii)
11/8 Utah State @ California (@ Wyoming)
11/22 Memphis @ Utah State (11/21 San Jose State)
11/29 Utah @ Utah State (@ Boise State)
Utah State actually adds a bye week on 11/15 since they have 13 regular season games. All teams that play Hawaii usually have 13 games. These guys would no longer be playing Hawaii and would no longer have the 13th game. Quality is added throughout the Utah State schedule as well as additional home games. This schedule is highlighted by trips to Arizona State and Oregon. This is a Utah State schedule I would like to see.
South Eastern Conference
Eastern Division
East Carolina (Texas A & M, Central Florida)
Florida (LSU, Florida State)
Georgia (Auburn, Georgia Tech)
Kentucky (Mississippi State, Marshall)
Louisville (Missouri, Rutgers)
North Carolina (Arkansas, Duke)
North Carolina State (Southern Methodist, Maryland)
South Carolina (Mississippi, Clemson)
Tennessee (Alabama, Syracuse)
Vanderbilt (Memphis, Indiana)
Western Division
Alabama (Tennessee, Utah)
Arkansas (North Carolina, Colorado State)
Auburn (Georgia, Nevada)
LSU (Florida, Washington State)
Memphis (Vanderbilt, Utah State)
Mississippi (South Carolina, Fresno State)
Mississippi State (Kentucky, BYU)
Missouri (Louisville, Kansas)
Southern Methodist (North Carolina State, TCU)
Texas A & M (East Carolina, Texas)
The SEC is last to act in this scenario because they don't need to act. They are set up the best heading into the expansion. This conference knows it just needs to get to 20 and they will be set. They add East Carolina to expand into North Carolina first. After the ACC is picked apart they want the Tar Heels as well, but the Tar Heels get them to accept rival NC State along with them. Louisville is also added from the ACC and Missouri is flipped West. To strengthen the market in Texas, Southern Methodist is added along with Memphis. The SEC West is still much stronger than the East, but by adding North Carolina and Louisville, the SEC has added two schools that can compete for titles on that side of the conference from time to time.
Now let's look at Auburn's schedule since they are considered to have the toughest schedule in the country.
8/30 Arkansas @ Auburn
9/6 Memphis @ Auburn (San Jose State)
9/20 Auburn @ Missouri (9/18 @ Kansas State)
9/27 Auburn @ Southern Methodist (Louisiana Tech Home)
10/4 LSU @ Auburn
10/11 Auburn @ Mississippi State
10/25 South Carolina@ Auburn
11/1 Auburn @ Ole Miss
11/8 Texas A & M @ Auburn
11/15 Auburn @ Georgia
11/22 Nevada @ Auburn (Samford)
11/29 Auburn @ Alabama
The only replacements here are Memphis, Missouri, Southern Methodist, and Nevada for San Jose State, Kansas State, Louisiana Tech, and Samford. You can argue that each of those is an upgrade and Nevada is a huge upgrade over Samford. This schedule is a win.
I think I like this option better than the other Super Conference Option, but I am not sure if I like it better than the relegation option. I do like keeping the historic rivalries though. How bout' that last FSU-Canes game?
Which of the three options do you like best?
In my next piece, you can find out what happens to the service academies that get left out if they get left out. It is probably the best thing for those academies.
Have a great Thanksgiving tomorrow!
-Noland
Option 1
Option 2
This option is very similar to Option 2. In fact, you could say it's the same thing. There is one major difference though, in this scenario the Big 12 beats the ACC to the punch and expands to 20 first. This is actually started by the Big 10 who takes Virginia and Duke. Therefore, the conferences align differently and different teams will be left out. The rivalries will also shift slightly as a result, but here are the ground rules again.
"4 conferences
20 teams
2 divisions in each conference
9 intra-division matchups
1 rotating opponent from the other division
1 cross-division rivalry game
1 out of conference rivalry game
These rivals will be posted in parentheses next to the teams below
Some teams are without a true cross division rival, so I will have to make up a rivalry."
BIG Conference (Formerly Big 10)
Eastern Division
Boston College (Notre Dame, Miami)
Duke (Northwestern, North Carolina)
Indiana (Purdue, Vanderbilt)
Maryland (Nebraska , North Carolina State)
Ohio State (Michigan, Cincinnati)
Penn State (Iowa, Temple)
Pittsburgh (Wisconsin, West Virginia)
Rutgers (Minnesota, Louisville)
Syracuse (Illinois, Tennessee)
Virginia (Michigan State, Virginia Tech)
Western Division
Illinois (Syracuse, California)
Iowa (Penn State, Iowa State)
Michigan (Ohio State, Stanford)
Michigan State (Virginia, Oregon)
Minnesota (Rutgers, UCLA)
Nebraska (Maryland, Oklahoma)
Northwestern (Duke, Washington)
Notre Dame (Boston College, Southern Cal)
Purdue (Indiana, Arizona)
Wisconsin (Pittsburgh, Arizona State)
The first strike against a former Power 5 conference in this scenario is Duke and Virginia leaving the ACC for the Big 10. After that major coup, Notre Dame decides to join the Big 10 figuring the ACC is done for. Once the Group of 5 leaves for the Big 10, Syracuse, BC, and Pitt are practically begging to join the Big 10.
Let's look at the updated Ohio State schedule and see how the Big 10 improved. Actual opponent in parentheses unless it is the same opponent.
8/30 Ohio State @ Boston College (@Navy)
9/6 Virginia @ Ohio State (Virginia Tech)
9/13 Syracuse @ Ohio State (Kent State)
9/27 Cincinnati @ Ohio State
10/4 Ohio State @ Maryland
10/18 Rutgers @ Ohio State
10/25 Ohio State @ Penn State
11/1 Ohio State @ Pittsburgh (Illinois Home)
11/8 Ohio State @ Duke (@ Michigan State)
11/15 Ohio State @ Minnesota
11/22 Indiana @ Ohio State
11/29 Michigan @ Ohio State
You add a road game under this scenario for Ohio State and you replace Virginia Tech, Kent State, and Illinois with Virginia, Syracuse, and Pittsburgh. Those are all upgrades in my opinion. The one downgrade may be Duke v. Michigan State, but that is highly debatable as Duke is a quality opponent. Then Ohio State will likely have to face Michigan State in the title IF they win this side.
Liberty Conference (Formerly Big 12)
Eastern Division
Central Florida (Baylor, East Carolina)
Cincinnati (Iowa State, Ohio State)
Clemson (Texas, South Carolina)
Florida State (Oklahoma, Florida)
Georgia Tech (Texas Tech, Georgia)
Marshall (Kansas, Kentucky)
Miami (Kansas State, Boston College)
Temple (TCU, Penn State)
Virginia Tech (Boise State, Virginia)
West Virginia (Oklahoma State, Pittsburgh)
Western Division
Baylor (Central Florida, Houston)
Boise State (Virginia Tech, UNLV)
Iowa State (Cincinnati, Iowa)
Kansas (Marshall, Missouri)
Kansas State (Miami, Colorado)
Oklahoma (Florida State, Nebraska)
Oklahoma State (West Virginia, Oregon State)
TCU (Temple, Southern Methodist)
Texas (Clemson, Texas A & M)
Texas Tech (Georgia Tech, UTEP)
The Big 12 acts first to expand in this scenario to get to a stronger 20 than the ACC so they are the automatic qualifier. The first team they add is Boise State adding them to their stable of classic Big 12 teams to form a Western division. They then need to add 9 teams East to go with WVU. They add Central Florida, Cincinnati, Marshall, and Temple also within the first week. They are prepared to add more mid majors, but not wanting to be left out of the playoff, FSU, Clemson, and Georgia Tech decide to bring along Miami and Virginia Tech and head to the Big 12. Realizing 12 is stupid to have as the name for a conference with 20 teams, they finally change the conference name. The new Liberty Conference ends up being the strongest conference of all.
Now let's look at the Noles schedule to prove it's strength.
8/30 Florida State @ Oklahoma State (same game in Dallas)
9/6 Oklahoma @ Florida State (Citadel)
9/20 Clemson @ Florida State
9/27 Florida State @ Temple (@ North Carolina State)
10/4 Virginia Tech @ Florida State (Wake Forest)
10/11 Florida State @ Marshall (@Syracuse)
10/18 Cincinnati @ Florida State (Notre Dame)
11/1 Florida State @ Georgia Tech (@ Louisville 10/30)
11/8 Central Florida @ Florida State (Virginia)
11/15 Florida State @ Miami
11/22 Florida State @ West Virginia (Boston College Home)
11/29 Florida @ Florida State
There is no doubt that this schedule is more difficult. Georgia Tech is the 2nd best team in the ACC and the Noles would be playing them yearly. Adding Oklahoma to the schedule is no easy task. There is no more Wake Forest and Syracuse beatdown games either.
Pacific Athletic Conference (Formerly PAC 12)
Northern Division
BYU (UNLV, Mississippi State)
California (Stanford, Illinois)
Colorado (Fresno State, Kansas State)
Colorado State (Nevada, Arkansas)
Oregon (Arizona, Michigan State)
Oregon State (UCLA, Oklahoma State)
Utah (Houston, Alabama)
Utah State (UTEP, Memphis)
Washington (Southern Cal, Northwestern)
Washington State (Arizona State, LSU)
Southern Division
Arizona (Oregon, Purdue)
Arizona State (Washington State, Wisconsin)
Fresno State (Colorado, Mississippi)
Houston (Utah, Baylor)
Nevada (Colorado State, Auburn)
Southern Cal (Washington, Notre Dame)
Stanford (California, Stanford)
UCLA (Oregon State, Minnesota)
UNLV (BYU, Boise State)
UTEP (Utah State, Texas Tech)
The Pac 12 moves after the Big 12 and Big 10 get started, but does decent work in expansion again. Realizing they are moving to twenty and might need to change numbers again, they decide to drop the number and simply become the PAC. They also realize the Big 12 is sticking after they expand with some strong mid majors and decide to add their own mid majors, starting with BYU. Once BYU is in the fold, they add some other teams.
Let's look at Utah State's upgraded schedule to see the impact on a quality mid major.
8/31 Utah State @ UTEP (@ Tennessee)
9/6 Colorado @ Utah State (Idaho State)
9/13 Washington State @ Utah State (Wake Forest)
9/20 Utah State @ Arizona State (@ Arkansas State)
10/3 Utah State @ Oregon (@ BYU)
10/10 Washington @ Utah State (Air Force)
10/18 Utah State @ Colorado State
10/25 UNLV @ Utah State
11/1 Utah State @ Oregon State (@ Hawaii)
11/8 Utah State @ California (@ Wyoming)
11/22 Memphis @ Utah State (11/21 San Jose State)
11/29 Utah @ Utah State (@ Boise State)
Utah State actually adds a bye week on 11/15 since they have 13 regular season games. All teams that play Hawaii usually have 13 games. These guys would no longer be playing Hawaii and would no longer have the 13th game. Quality is added throughout the Utah State schedule as well as additional home games. This schedule is highlighted by trips to Arizona State and Oregon. This is a Utah State schedule I would like to see.
South Eastern Conference
Eastern Division
East Carolina (Texas A & M, Central Florida)
Florida (LSU, Florida State)
Georgia (Auburn, Georgia Tech)
Kentucky (Mississippi State, Marshall)
Louisville (Missouri, Rutgers)
North Carolina (Arkansas, Duke)
North Carolina State (Southern Methodist, Maryland)
South Carolina (Mississippi, Clemson)
Tennessee (Alabama, Syracuse)
Vanderbilt (Memphis, Indiana)
Western Division
Alabama (Tennessee, Utah)
Arkansas (North Carolina, Colorado State)
Auburn (Georgia, Nevada)
LSU (Florida, Washington State)
Memphis (Vanderbilt, Utah State)
Mississippi (South Carolina, Fresno State)
Mississippi State (Kentucky, BYU)
Missouri (Louisville, Kansas)
Southern Methodist (North Carolina State, TCU)
Texas A & M (East Carolina, Texas)
The SEC is last to act in this scenario because they don't need to act. They are set up the best heading into the expansion. This conference knows it just needs to get to 20 and they will be set. They add East Carolina to expand into North Carolina first. After the ACC is picked apart they want the Tar Heels as well, but the Tar Heels get them to accept rival NC State along with them. Louisville is also added from the ACC and Missouri is flipped West. To strengthen the market in Texas, Southern Methodist is added along with Memphis. The SEC West is still much stronger than the East, but by adding North Carolina and Louisville, the SEC has added two schools that can compete for titles on that side of the conference from time to time.
Now let's look at Auburn's schedule since they are considered to have the toughest schedule in the country.
8/30 Arkansas @ Auburn
9/6 Memphis @ Auburn (San Jose State)
9/20 Auburn @ Missouri (9/18 @ Kansas State)
9/27 Auburn @ Southern Methodist (Louisiana Tech Home)
10/4 LSU @ Auburn
10/11 Auburn @ Mississippi State
10/25 South Carolina@ Auburn
11/1 Auburn @ Ole Miss
11/8 Texas A & M @ Auburn
11/15 Auburn @ Georgia
11/22 Nevada @ Auburn (Samford)
11/29 Auburn @ Alabama
The only replacements here are Memphis, Missouri, Southern Methodist, and Nevada for San Jose State, Kansas State, Louisiana Tech, and Samford. You can argue that each of those is an upgrade and Nevada is a huge upgrade over Samford. This schedule is a win.
Final Wrap-Up
Under this scenario the two biggest snubs are Wake Forest and Connecticut based on their placement when the BCS scenario began. UCONN was left behind once again with no conference gaining a huge strategic advantage by adding them. Wake Forest was left behind because the SEC refused to add a 4th Carolina school and the ACC Schools that left for the Big 10 and Big 12 felt no loyalty toward Wake. As the weakest ACC school currently, I believe Wake would have to act first in a scenario such as this if it felt the ACC being picked apart.I think I like this option better than the other Super Conference Option, but I am not sure if I like it better than the relegation option. I do like keeping the historic rivalries though. How bout' that last FSU-Canes game?
Which of the three options do you like best?
In my next piece, you can find out what happens to the service academies that get left out if they get left out. It is probably the best thing for those academies.
Have a great Thanksgiving tomorrow!
-Noland
9.22.2012
College Football Picks For Today
Today Gameday is live from Tallahassee, Florida. It is the game of the year for the Seminoles. #4 vs. #10. This is it. This will define if the Noles are back. We need this win. I will pick it later, but this is quite the exciting day for Seminole Fans.
Now the rest of the picks
West Virginia over Maryland
I still haven't figured out this Maryland team yet, but I believe West Virginia will win big today.
Florida over Kentucky
Virginia Tech over Bowling Green
Ole Miss over Tulane
Wake Forest over Army
TCU over UVA
I think this will easily be the best game at the start of the day. This one could be very good, especially if TCU is looking ahead. Could be an upset here, but TCU has more talent and should pull it out in the end.
Georgia Tech over Miami
Upset Special: Missouri over South Carolina
Missouri will make a statement today that they are ready for the SEC. They score the huge upset over the #7 Gamecocks.
UNC over ECU
Navy over VMI
Alabama over FAU
Duke over Memphis
NC State over The Citadel
LSU over Auburn
Miss State over South Alabama
Rutgers over Arkansas
Everyone is dumping on Arkansas now, but remember who said they would go nowhere first. Who also was mighty high on Rutgers preseason. I think you know where I am going in this one. Rutgers beats the Razorbacks here.
Georgia over Vanderbilt
Florida State over Clemson
The ninth top 10 matchup in ACC history. #4 takes on #10. Is FSU back? Can Clemson show it belongs among the Nation's elite. Is Manuel ready to lead the Noles to the title? Are the Noles able to win a close game? Will it be close?
I don't think it will be that close and I think FSU makes a statement tonight that they are back. Make it happen Noles.
-Noland
9.01.2012
College Football Picks For Today
Football Season is here. Everyone is excited. I have not covered the start of the season as much as I would like, but I did do my predictions recently. Each week I will predict all ACC, SEC, Service Academy, and other intriguing game to me. I will only predict the Saturday games though.
Notre Dame Over Navy
Notre Dame will win a close game in my opinion. Questions all around for the Irish, but Brian Kelly absolutely has to win this game. If the Irish lose to Navy in Ireland, Brian Kelly might have to swim back across.
Georgia over Buffalo
Well I did kind of have high expectations for the Bulldogs. Check my pics for the year.
West Virginia over Marshall
The only reason I put this in is because I think this will be the most lopsided game of the week.
Upset Special: Ohio over Penn State
Yes, Penn State will be geared up for this game, but there are too many distractions and Ohio is better than people think. Maybe this is my heart on this pick, but I think it will happen.
North Carolina over Elon
Air Force over Idaho State
Maryland over William & Mary
This year Maryland will be the worst team in the ACC. They will supplant Duke. Do not be surprised if William & Mary pulls this out. I got Maryland in a close game.
Virginia over Richmond
The Cavs could be scary in the Atlantic this year.
Florida over Bowling Green
Miami over BC
FSU over Murray State
I am extremely excited about this Seminole team. Murray State is not the best team in the world, but FSU starts their possible title run against them this year. I really like our chances this year. Today won't be close though.
Wake Forest over Liberty
LSU over North Texas
Arkansas over Jacksonville State
Clemson over Auburn
Clemson will help bring respectability back to the ACC this year. I fully expect Clemson, Tech, and FSU to be very good this year. This is a huge game for the ACC and Clemson has to come through. However, Sammy Watkins is out, so it may be tough.
Ole Miss over Central Arkansas
Duke over FIU
Mississippi State over Jackson State
Rutgers over Tulane
And finally, the big game....
and an upset special
Michigan over Alabama
So since my original prediction, I have changed my mind. I just got a crazy feeling that Michigan will pull off this upset. They will do it, Robinson will become the Heisman favorite and the Wolverines will become the title favorite. Everyone expects Alabama to win, a week ago I thought they would too, but I am a big fan of Brady Hoke and think he has his team incredibly prepared. Big Blue makes a statement tonight. As the picture says if you expect to lose, don't play. Michigan absolutely does not expect to lose tonight.
8.18.2012
Most Valuable Team In The ACC
Earlier this summer, there was a posting on Tomahawk Nation about whether FSU was really the most valuable team. Our fanbase was claiming it, as many of us wanted a Big 12 move. The move was desired because many of us were upset with the new TV deal, and some freeloaders in our conference. Many from the outside said that FSU was not the big draw in the ACC anymore. So when that statement was made, someone investigated. That is where we got this piece from Tomahawk Nation. I find it interesting an recommend reading it, but I will break down some of the major findings here.
The ACC was expected to be a powerhouse when Tech and Miami came in. Heck, FSU was supposed to bring credibility to the conference when they came in all the way back in 1992. FSU did for a while, but fell off. Some people this summer even said that FSU was supposed to save the ACC, but they are actually killing it. Woah woah woah. Let's go to the facts and the report before we make insane statements like that. FSU is not killing anything.
Carolina fans think FSU overvalues their team. Many teams think FSU overvalues their team, well lets look at the chart.
The data used by the person providing this report was number of people viewing each team's games in the ACC for football and basketball. It was not even skewed for the other sports where FSU has a far better following than the rest of the ACC (especially in baseball). Most of the money in TV comes from those sports as well, so they were excluded as I said earlier.
The data had some faults to it, but provided a good overall picture.
Here are the teams ranked in order of value for 2011
FSU
Clemson
UNC
Miami
Virginia Tech
Duke
Georgia Tech
NC State
UVA
Maryland
Wake Forest
Boston College
So what does that tell us?
If you go to the site and look at the chart, it shows that FSU has greater impact than the bottom 3 teams combined. It also shows us that FSU is easily the most valuable team in the ACC. It also shows that Clemson is clearly #2. Those two teams had legitimate beef if they wanted to bolt. The impact of the top two teams basically equals the impact of the bottom 5 teams. Including a UVA team that nearly won their side of the conference last year.
This also shows us that Georgia Tech and NC State would not be as attractive as you think when shifting conferences. If two teams did leave it would seem to make sense that Clemson and FSU are the logical choices.
You have to realize that Boston College had one of their worst seasons in recent memory in both sports. Also that Wake Forest has had good years. However, Wake doesn't have the alumni base of FSU and Clemson. Also Maryland's numbers were skewed because they played Notre Dame and Notre Dame is the most valuable team in the country. Not the best team, but the most valuable $$$ wise. It is why Notre Dame has their own TV deal.
Who is overpaid and underpaid based on revenue sharing?
Because the ACC is a revenue sharing league where profits are shared. Some schools do not bring in what they earn. FSU, Clemson, UNC, Miami, and Tech are all underpaid and undervalued in the current ACC. Sure there are other benefits to being in the conference, but these teams bring in more than they are getting back. The other 7 benefit off the top 5. Sure, it probably changes some years, but I am willing to bet that FSU has carried the conference for years.
Now you can see that the data backs it up. When anyone says we overvalue FSU, point them to the article. Point to us being near the top of merchandising sales every year. Point to the fact that we carried the ACC for years. Point to the fact that we bring in way more than we take. Point to the fact that we are givers and not takers. Go Seminoles!
-Noland
Carolina fans think FSU overvalues their team. Many teams think FSU overvalues their team, well lets look at the chart.
The data used by the person providing this report was number of people viewing each team's games in the ACC for football and basketball. It was not even skewed for the other sports where FSU has a far better following than the rest of the ACC (especially in baseball). Most of the money in TV comes from those sports as well, so they were excluded as I said earlier.
The data had some faults to it, but provided a good overall picture.
Here are the teams ranked in order of value for 2011
FSU
Clemson
UNC
Miami
Virginia Tech
Duke
Georgia Tech
NC State
UVA
Maryland
Wake Forest
Boston College
So what does that tell us?
If you go to the site and look at the chart, it shows that FSU has greater impact than the bottom 3 teams combined. It also shows us that FSU is easily the most valuable team in the ACC. It also shows that Clemson is clearly #2. Those two teams had legitimate beef if they wanted to bolt. The impact of the top two teams basically equals the impact of the bottom 5 teams. Including a UVA team that nearly won their side of the conference last year.
This also shows us that Georgia Tech and NC State would not be as attractive as you think when shifting conferences. If two teams did leave it would seem to make sense that Clemson and FSU are the logical choices.
You have to realize that Boston College had one of their worst seasons in recent memory in both sports. Also that Wake Forest has had good years. However, Wake doesn't have the alumni base of FSU and Clemson. Also Maryland's numbers were skewed because they played Notre Dame and Notre Dame is the most valuable team in the country. Not the best team, but the most valuable $$$ wise. It is why Notre Dame has their own TV deal.
Who is overpaid and underpaid based on revenue sharing?
Because the ACC is a revenue sharing league where profits are shared. Some schools do not bring in what they earn. FSU, Clemson, UNC, Miami, and Tech are all underpaid and undervalued in the current ACC. Sure there are other benefits to being in the conference, but these teams bring in more than they are getting back. The other 7 benefit off the top 5. Sure, it probably changes some years, but I am willing to bet that FSU has carried the conference for years.
Now you can see that the data backs it up. When anyone says we overvalue FSU, point them to the article. Point to us being near the top of merchandising sales every year. Point to the fact that we carried the ACC for years. Point to the fact that we bring in way more than we take. Point to the fact that we are givers and not takers. Go Seminoles!
5.26.2012
FSU Seminoles 2012 Team Predictions
Before I get into the 2012 Seminole Team Predictions from Athlon, I wanted to say that on Monday, I will be posting a few stories about sports heroes that were also American heroes. As someone that has a great appreciation for what the military does and for everything they sacrifice I think it is important to do that. Look for those stories on Monday.Now, getting back to the Seminole stories from Athlon, we look at their predictions for players at FSU. We already know that Athlon has FSU at #9 and thinks they will win the ACC, but what else do they have predicted for the Noles this year. Here is the full story.
Athlon has put us on upset alert in our trip to Raleigh, NC. The October 6th date with the Wolfpack is not a game the Noles should take lightly. The last time our team traveled to Carter-Finley stadium we lost. Although we beat the Wolfpack 34-0 last year, we can't expect that to happen again.They picked our offensive MVP to be EJ Manuel. No surprise there. EJ needs to be the offensive MVP and needs to have improved play this season if we are to get back into the BCS.
Our biggest game according to Athlon is against the Clemson Tigers on September 22. I could not agree more. There is a strong chance that the winner of this game will represent the ACC Atlantic in the title game. If FSU wants to win the ACC, this very well could be a must win game. Luckily the game will be at Doak Campbell Stadium. This one should be an easy sellout.We all know the Seminoles have an amazing defense. Everyone also knows that Brandon Jenkins is the leader of that defense and the team. This guy is a 1st round pick. The stud pass rusher will lead the Seminole defense back to the BCS.
They picked USF as a trap game. I don't know about that one. This could be a trap technically, but in state opponents aren't usually taken lightly. Ya, it will be the week after the Clemson game, but these Seminoles should be hyped for it. It will be in Tampa which is awesome because that is my new city. However, I don't think I'll be going to this game. It is on September 29th which is my baby boy's due date. Well actually the date was moved up to September 25th, but even a diehard Nole like me wouldn't miss the birth of his son for anything.Their breakout candidate is Rashad Greene. I say that Rashad Greene has already broke out. He was the leader in receiving last season. My choice is Christian Jones. I believe Jones will be 1st team All ACC.
Athlon's bounce back candidate was Xavier Rhodes. I agree 100%. Rhodes has amazing talent and if he really wants to be that top 10 pick will have to bounce back. I see it happening.
The national championship defining moment game should be an ACC Championship preview. If the Seminoles are undefeated heading into their November 8th showdown at VT, they have a great chance at the National Title. This is the biggest obstacle to that. Lane Stadium is a very tough place to play though and I am not sure they will get their unscathed. It is a real possibility though that they can do it. There is more covered on predictions over at Athlon, so be sure to check the article out. I feel a big year for the Seminoles. However, I will admit to being a big time homer. This year there is plenty of reason to be excited though with nearly everyone coming back. Including our best defensive line since the 90s.
-Noland
5.21.2012
Big 12 Speculation Continues
The Big 12 sources say nothing is done yet, but rumors are abound about teams jumping to the conference. Some say it is a done deal with FSU and Clemson moving to the Big 12. They say the age of the superconference is upon us. FSU and Clemson are in and Virginia Tech is on deck. Some even say that Notre Dame is about to join the conference. Is any of it true?Well, not quite, but it could be headed that way. We also know several pieces of information that can help us have some informed discussions on this issue.
In addition to all of that, the athletic director at Texas is saying to some in the Big 12 that he thinks Notre Dame is seriously looking at the Big 12. The most obvious point about Notre Dame in the Big 12 is that nobody knows how it would work. It will certainly be interesting to follow though.
Everyone is trying to figure out what works best for them. It is a confusing time and nobody knows for sure what will happen, including my Seminoles.
The rumor is that FSU and Clemson are talking more and more about moving as a package deal out of the ACC. FSU and Clemson would be wise to move together for travel costs, current rivalry, and other reasons. It seems that the ACC schools will have to make the move. Another rumor is that nobody wants to see the ACC de-stabilize and that either FSU and/or Clemson are going to have to make the first move.
Also apparently the SEC has told the Big 12 to see if it really wants to grow beyond 12. Is the SEC scared that in a superconference situation the Big 12 gets better than the SEC? Clemson, FSU, Notre Dame and VT together may make the Big 12 the premier conference.
A high level source in the Big 12 says the conference will end up with 12 and a half schools. That source speculated that the teams would be FSU and Clemson or FSU and Louisville. The source seemed fairly certain that FSU would be one of the teams moving. The half was for Notre Dame. It seemed that the source says the league will be 12 teams unless Notre Dame joins at which point they could move to 14. Wild stuff. I would be down for FSU playing Notre Dame every year starting in 2014 though. Sign me up for the Big 12.
-Noland
5.18.2012
Magic Number Remains 1
After the Florida State Seminoles took only one game from the Clemson Tigers, their magic number moved from 2 to 1 for the top seed in the ACC tournament. They are battling with the North Carolina Tar Heels for that top seed. During that series with Clemson the Noles wrapped up the Atlantic Division. Now, FSU can do no worse than a 2 seed in the ACC tournament. It sure would be nice to get that one seed though, considering FSU has spent a good portion of this season as the #1 team in the entire nation.Unfortunately, FSU just lost game one of their next series against NC State. The Wolfpack beat the Noles 10-5 and leave the Seminoles trying to get that top seed. This has not been the best week for FSU baseball, but they will rebound strong. While the Noles lost, UNC won again. This magic number just is not happening for the Noles. Two games left, and we must win one. It will happen and the Noles will try to win the ACC tourney.
-Noland
5.16.2012
Derrick Brooks Says Big 12 Has Approached FSU
Seminole legend Derrick Brooks was talking about the possible move from the ACC on the Tim Brando radio show. What he said was interesting. Brooks said that the Big 12 has approached Florida State and not the other way around. This guy is a former NFL man of the year that has incredible integrity. He is perhaps the most trustworthy guy in sports, so I believe him. Brooks is also on the FSU Board of Trustees. This issue is not going away anytime soon. It seems that Clemson and FSU are headed to the Big 12 soon. Should be interesting to watch.-Noland
5.14.2012
The Move to the Big 12 NEEDS to Happen
This move needs to happen. Take Clemson, VT and Miami with us, but it needs to happen. I know our school is worried about the perception of leaving the ACC academically, but that doesn't really matter. Our athletic department needs to cover their costs and the ACC negotiated a horrible deal. The projected revenue coming from the ESPN deal is expected to be backloaded a great deal. That won't help programs that are in current budget deficits very much. It will also make the gap between the haves (Big 12 and SEC) greater than the have nots (ACC and Big East). We cannot expect to continue to compete at a high level when those schools are raking in twice as much as us. We sell more tickets in the Big 12. Sure, the schedule will be harder too, but does that hurt the SEC. If you lose a game in the SEC you still have a chance. We lose to VT in the ACC next year and we are done. If we move to the Big 12 and lose to VT, we can make up for it with games against Ok, Ok state, and Texas. It sets up a defacto national championship of Big 12 against SEC unless USC or Oh State go undefeated. It also brings in more money. We also don't have to worry about selling tickets from home games. Every single game against Big 12 opponents should sell out, except for maybe Iowa State.
Over the last two years FSU has finished in the top 10 of the Director's Cup twice, won the ACC in basketball, had a sweet 16 appearance, won two bowl games each time while having the best record in the state. We cannot expect that to continue if this move is not made. The budget deficit will likely increase due to a poor TV deal and lower ticket sales. People just aren't coming to see the Noles play Duke. Nobody cares. Let's make the bold move and see what happens. Let the ACC sink themselves, but don't let them take us with them. President Eric Barron said that FSU is not seeking alternatives, but that should change ASAP. We need to join WVU and make a good decision for ourselves.-Noland
5.13.2012
Noles Rained Out, Magic Number Remains 2
Today due to an incredible amount of rain, Game 2 of the Clemson-FSU series was rained out. Clemson took Game 1 against the Noles. Entering this series FSU was up 6 on Clemson and 5 on NC State for the #1 spot in the Atlantic. That is basically locked up. All teams have 6 games remaining, and FSU plays NC State after Clemson. FSU isn't just looking for the top seed in the Atlantic though, the Noles want #1 in the ACC. To get that #1 seed overall in the ACC the top ranked Noles have a magic number of 2. Their top threat is North Carolina. FSU coach Mike Martin said it will be difficult to do against Clemson. He said it will be difficult to do this weekend because Clemson is the hardest place to play in the conference. The Tigers proved that last night.
This always seems to happen when the Seminoles play Clemson. In 2010 FSU only needed 1 win to win the division and Clemson swept the Noles. Clemson ended up winning the division that year. Last year, FSU needed one win and only got one win. It sure will be tough against the Tigers. Let's hope FSU takes the double header tomorrow to save us the trouble. The Noles likely will lose their top ranking soon with three losses this week, but they will still be ranked high. This week will be a good week for FSU baseball.
-Noland
Could FSU Be Moving to the Big 12?
Florida State was not very happy with the latest television deal. Virginia Tech, Clemson, and Miami should not be happy with it either. Board of Trustees Chairman, Andy Haggard, seemed the most upset and it is clear to see why. He received hundreds of emails from fans and alumni which all were upset so he decided to speak out. Here are some comments from Haggard."It's mind-boggling and shocking,"
"How can the ACC give up third tier rights for football but keep them for basketball?"
"It continues the perception that the ACC favors the North Carolina schools,"
"How do you not look into that option,"
"On behalf of the Board of Trustees I can say that unanimously we would be in favor of seeing what the Big 12 might have to offer. We have to do what is in Florida State's best interest."
"With the SEC making the kind of money it does it's time to act,"
"You can't sit back and be content in the ACC. This is a different time financially. This isn't 10-15 years ago when money was rolling in."
"No FSU graduate puts on his resume or interviews for a job saying they are in the same conference as Duke and Virginia," he said. "Conference affiliation really has no impact on academics."
Sure sounds like this guy at least wants to look at the Big 12 big time. The Big 12 television deal is estimated at $20 million per school per year while the ACC deal is $17 million right now. If Clemson and FSU really do jump ship and go to the Big 12, that number goes much higher. It would also make the Big 12 very solid in its future. Haggard seems like he is surely going to talk with President Barron and Director Spetman on this issue. This conference realignment issue does not seem like it is slowing down one bit. The ACC says Haggard is wrong. Also interesting that Randy Spetman said we are committed to the ACC. I do not believe we will see a move, but it will be interesting to watch. We will see who is right I guess and we will see what happens.
-Noland
5.05.2012
Sammy Watkins Arrested
Star Clemson receiver Sammy Watkins was arrested on drug charges early Friday morning in South Carolina. Watkins was with a soccer player who was also arrested after being pulled over. The arresting officer saw Watkins scrape his car against a curb and smelt marijuana when he approached the vehicle. So Watkins was doing illegal substances and driving under the influence. This stuff irritates me. If you want to endanger yourself go right ahead, but don't put other people's lives at risk. Watkins helped lead Clemson to the ACC Championship last season and lead the team in receiving. He was an absolute stud as a freshman after being one of Clemson's top recruits. Dabo Swinney said punishments will be handed out after an internal investigation.
Watkins was driving a white Cadillac with dealer tags. Not sure if there is a scandal here, but I know I couldn't afford a Cadillac in college and still can't. It is suspicious that Sammy Watkins left south Florida for Clemson despite being recruited by everyone. It will be interesting to see if an investigation is to follow.
-Noland
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