What If All Football Teams Were Independent?

Chip Kelly recently said something recently that many of us had said for years. He mentioned that all major football programs should be independent like Notre Dame. That concept should have universal support and is something that many of us have been asking to happen for a long time. There is absolutely no reason to not do this and I have outlined below how it could work...

If you took the top 80 college football programs in the country and separated them into 16 regional pods of 5 those would be teams that always play each other. Additionally, you would have one rivalry that was outside of their pod for a locked opponent. Then you could have one rival from the next 80 for one Tier 2 game per school. Each team would have 6 locked opponents every year this way and the other 6 would rotate every year. Every team in the top 80 would play 11 games against other top 80 teams. Right now, less than half of P5 teams play 10 games against the Power 5 (which is essentially what the top 80 would be). Better games and better chance at protecting regional rivalries under this scenario. The top 80 would play for the national championship each year and the next 80 would play for a chance to make the top 80 the following year. EVERY GAME COUNTS under this scenario.

The top 80 would be chosen by their tv viewership under the initial model. Below is 16 regional pods of 5 featuring this top 80. Western Kentucky (78) and UTSA (79) were replaced by SMU (83) and Vanderbilt (82) to avoid any current Power 5 from being left out of the initial top 80 teams. In parenthesis is each teams non-pod rivalry and rival from the next 80. The next 80 are the current remaining FBS teams, teams that made the FCS playoffs, and the FCS schools with the largest stadiums. This division would be known as 1-AA, while the top 80 would be 1-A.

Pod 1

Alabama (LSU) (UAB)

Auburn (Georgia Tech) (South Alabama)

Houston (TCU) (Sam Houston)

Rice (Texas A&M) (Texas State)

SMU (Baylor) (Louisiana Monroe)

Pod 2

Florida (Georgia) (Georgia Southern)

Florida State (Clemson) (Jacksonville State)

Miami (Boston College) (Miami Ohio)

UCF (Colorado State) (Florida International)

USF (Tulane) (Florida Atlantic)

Pod 3

Georgia (Florida) (Troy)

Georgia Tech (Auburn) (Georgia State)

Tennessee (South Carolina) (Middle Tennessee)

Memphis (Mississippi) (Mercer)

Vanderbilt (Army) (Chattanooga)

Pod 4

Michigan (Ohio State) (Central Michigan)

Michigan State (Penn State) (Eastern Michigan)

Minnesota (Iowa) (Western Michigan)

Wisconsin (Illinois) (Youngstown State)

Northwestern (Purdue) (Southern Illinois)

Pod 5

Ohio State (Michigan) (Toledo)

Cincinnati (Rutgers) (Ohio)

Navy (Maryland) (Air Force)

Army (Vanderbilt) (Albany)

Louisville (Kentucky) (Bowling Green)

Pod 6

Texas (Oklahoma) (UTSA)

Texas A&M (Rice) (UTEP)

TCU (Houston) (Delaware)

Texas Tech (Colorado) (Texas Southern)

Baylor (SMU) (North Texas)

Pod 7

Notre Dame (Southern Cal) (Ball State)

Indiana (Duke) (Kent State)

Purdue (Northwestern) (Villanova)

Illinois (Wisconsin) (Northern Illinois)

Kentucky (Louisville) (Western Kentucky)

Pod 8

Arkansas (Kansas) (Arkansas State)

LSU (Alabama) (Louisiana Tech)

Mississippi (Memphis) (Southern Mississippi)

Mississippi State (Missouri) (Mississippi Valley State)

Tulane (USF) (Louisiana)

Pod 9

California (Washington) (Fresno State)

San Jose State (Boise State) (San Diego State)

Southern California (Notre Dame) (Hawaii)

Stanford (Arizona State) (Yale)

UCLA (Oregon) (Sacramento State)

Pod 10

Colorado (Texas Tech) (Jackson State)

Colorado State (UCF) (Wyoming)

Oklahoma (Texas) (Tulsa)

Oklahoma State (Iowa State) (Lafayette)

Nebraska (Kansas State) (Nicholls)

Pod 11

Oregon (UCLA) (Gardner-Webb)

Oregon State (Arizona) (Austin Peay)

UNLV (BYU) (Nevada)

Washington (California) (Harvard)

Washington State (Utah) (Penn)

Pod 12

Iowa (Minnesota) (Drake)

Iowa State (Oklahoma State) (Montana State)

Kansas (Arkansas) (North Dakota State)

Kansas State (Nebraska) (South Dakota State)

Missouri (Mississippi State) (South Dakota)

Pod 13

Maryland (Navy) (Liberty)

Virginia (North Carolina) (James Madison)

Virginia Tech (Syracuse) (Old Dominion)

Wake Forest (NC State) (Appalachian State)

West Virginia (Pittsburgh) (Marshall)

Pod 14

Clemson (Florida State) (Furman)

South Carolina (Tennessee) (Coastal Carolina)

Duke (Indiana) (Richmond)

North Carolina (Virginia) (East Carolina)

North Carolina State (Wake Forest) (Charlotte)

Pod 15 

Boston College (Miami) (UMASS)

Penn State (Michigan State) (Temple)

Pittsburgh (West Virginia) (Akron)

Rutgers (Cincinnati) (UCONN)

Syracuse (Virginia Tech) (Buffalo)

Pod 16

Arizona (Oregon State) (New Mexico)

Arizona State (Stanford) (New Mexico State)

Boise State (San Jose State) (Idaho)

BYU (UNLV) (Montana)

Utah (Washington State) (Utah State)

Under this scenario Florida State's 6 locked opponents would be Florida, Miami, UCF, USF, Clemson, and Jacksonville State. Protecting all of the schools main rivals and giving exciting matchups in USF and UCF that we don't get to see every year, but should. The other 6 opponents would change each year.

Here is how they would find the other 6 opponents. One random opponent will be selected each year for one opponent. Two pods will be randomly paired together each year to form the conference for that year for the other. If your out of conference rival ends up in your conference, then you get a second random game that year to make up for the missing game. The top team in each conference will get a home playoff game and the second place team in each conference will get a road playoff game. 8 conferences, 16 team playoff. More on relegation and promotion will come later in this post...For now, just think of the prospect of 8 corporately sponsored conferences that change each year. Inifinitely more money for those schools. We get excited about 60 million per school in the big two conferences, but each school easily takes home 100 million from the conferences that are sponsored. Think of how much each sponsorship would go for. Allstate, State Farm etc. would pay crazy money to have their name on a conference each week. Let's not lie to ourselves anymore about it being all about money. Let's capitalize on it. Here is how the conferences could look...

Allstate Conference

Alabama

Auburn

Florida

Florida State

Houston

Miami

Rice

SMU

UCF

USF

AT&T Conference

Arizona

Arizona State

Boise State

BYU

California

San Jose State

Southern Cal

Stanford 

UCLA

Utah

Capital One Conference

Boston College

Clemson

Duke

North Carolina

North Carolina State

Penn State

Pittsburgh

Rutgers

South Carolina

Syracuse

Cheez-It Conference

Maryland

Oregon

Oregon State

UNLV

Virginia

Virginia Tech

Wake Forest

Washington

Washington State

West Virginia

Chic-Fil-A Conference

Georgia 

Georgia Tech

Iowa

Iowa State

Kansas

Kansas State

Memphis

Missouri

Tennessee

Vanderbilt

Dr. Pepper Conference

Arkansas

Colorado

Colorado State

LSU

Mississippi

Mississippi State

Nebraska

Oklahoma

Oklahoma State

Tulane

Ticketmaster Conference

Army

Cincinnati

Louisville

Michigan

Michigan State

Minnesota

Navy

Northwestern

Ohio State

Wisconsin

VRBO Conference

Baylor

Illinois

Indiana

Kentucky

Notre Dame

Purdue

TCU

Texas

Texas A&M

Texas Tech

This would be Florida State's Schedule

v. Clemson

@ Jacksonville State

@ Houston

v. UCF

@ Alabama

v. Auburn

@ Miami

v. Rice

@ SMU

v. Colorado

@ USF

v. Florida

The playoffs would be decided on the field. Top team in each conference gets a home playoff game. The second place team in each conference would be the road team. Final standings would be based on conference record. Overall record would be the first tie-breaker. Head to head would be the second tie-breaker. Third tie-breaker (if more than 2 teams tied) would be opponent winning percentage. The potential playoff 1st round would be

Oregon @ Florida State

Missouri @ Texas

Clemson @ Michigan

Southern Cal @ Mississippi

Oklahoma @ Utah

Ohio State @ Penn State

Notre Dame @ Georgia

Alabama @ Washington

The 2nd round, semis, and championship would take place at the classic bowl game settings they have always been held at. Teams would really have something to play for and it would be clear-cut who made it. Now comes the part where all the games matter....

That's right under this scenario you could make even the seemingly irrelevant game matter a great deal. Because the bottom two teams in each conference could be threatened with relegation. The top two in each 1AA conference would get to challenge a bottom two team from a 1A conference. For insance Liberty would have the opportunity to take one of the top 80 spots and have a shot at a national championship the following year. You could have Liberty v. Vanderbilt with a chance to be in the highest tier on the line. Suddenly a game without meaning has a ton of meaning.

Suddenly, all the games would have meaning again. Every school would make more money. It would not affect the other sports. All schools would have a fair shot. A whole lot better than making the sport more like figure skating. Football would once again be decided on the field and not be a committee.

What College Football Should Do Right Now

Conferences across the country are going to conference only competition in an effort to reduce concerns related to the coronavirus. It is understandable that they try to be creative in this trying time, but it's the wrong move. If the concern is partly related to travel, it is time for an even more creative idea. 

What needs to happy is 12 pods of teams separated by region. Each pod should have 6 teams and those teams should play each other twice (home and away). The team with the best record in each pod would advance to the college football playoff. Since there are only 10 games, the two extra playoff games wouldn't be too much. Since 12 teams is not a perfect number, there would also be 4 at-large teams from this group of the best teams remaining. A 16 team playoff would be a wonderful treat for the American people. 

Florida/Georgia

Central Florida

Florida

Florida State

Georgia

Georgia Tech

Miami

South Carolina/North Carolina

Clemson

Duke

North Carolina

North Carolina State

South Carolina

Wake Forest

Alabama/Tennessee

Alabama

Alabama-Birmingham

Auburn

Memphis

Tennessee

Vanderbilt

Kentucky/Maryland/West Virginia/Virginia

Kentucky

Louisville

Maryland

Virginia

Virginia Tech

West Virginia

Northeast

Boston College

Cincinnati

Penn State

Pittsburgh

Rutgers

Syracuse

Indiana/Ohio/Michigan

Indiana

Michigan 

Michigan State

Notre Dame

Ohio State

Purdue

Illinois/Iowa/Minnesota/Wisconsin

Illinois

Iowa

Iowa State

Minnesota

Northwestern

Wisconsin

Colorado/Kansas/Nebraska/Oklahoma

Colorado

Kansas

Kansas State

Nebraska

Oklahoma

Oklahoma State

Arkansas/Mississippi/Missouri/Louisiana/Texas A&M

Arkansas

Louisiana State

Mississippi

Mississippi State

Missouri

Texas A&M

Texas/Arizona

Arizona

Arizona State

Baylor

Texas

Texas Christian

Texas Tech

Colorado/Idaho/Utah/Washington

Boise State

Brigham Young

Colorado

Utah

Washington

Washington State

California/Oregon

California

Oregon

Oregon State

Southern Cal

Stanford

UCLA

This model would be infinitely better than the conference only model. Better and safer matchups and a better playoff system. All 12 winners would make it along with 4 at-larges that showed the best from this group. It is the right move, but unfortunately, the conferences could not see the easy move this year.

- Noland

Seminole Signing Day Is Coming

It is less than a week away. For some football fans it is like Christmas morning. It is exciting for everyone that loves college athletics. Hope springs eternal. National Signing Day is Wednesday, February 6th. At that time we find out who will be wearing Garnet and Gold in the future.

Much like everyone else, this Seminole fan is excited to see who we end up with. However, football fans must realize that championships are not solely won on Signing Day. There is a lot more to championship football than the decisions of 17 and 18 year olds. That being said, those that say recruiting is the lifeblood of college football are not wrong. It is just that teenagers are going to be teenagers and you can't get upset with their decisions. Additionally, FSU had plenty of star power lately in recruiting. These Seminoles have lacked desire and effort.

Give me recruits with 5 star work ethic. They do not all have to be 5 stars.

If we have anymore Jaiden Woodbey's in this class, I will be thrilled. 5 star talents with 5 star attitudes can't be beat. Woodbey sure is a true Seminole and has been the best athlete added in the Taggart era.

It is imperative that Willie Taggart finds these True Seminoles. He needs to find some hogs to help out offensive coordinator Kendal Briles. This offense absolutely has to be miles better in 2019 and there is a lot of hope for exactly that. Between Briles, the development of some key guys, and some new faces, the future looks much brighter!

No matter what happens though the Seminoles still have a really good QB in James Blackman. That guy is a leader and the true Seminole that we need. His energy, enthusiasm, and ability to perform will lead the Seminoles back to where they belong.

Let's all welcome these new Noles.
Let's not get frustrated about the 17 year olds that go elsewhere.
Let's all support Coach Taggart.
Let's support these Seminoles.

There are many brighter days ahead!!!!!!!

Go Noles!!!

- Noland

Jameis Winston Draft Profile

For weeks leading up to the draft there has been countless articles and pieces written about former FSU QB Jameis Winston. Most of these articles go something like this...Winston is clearly the best prospect, but he has off the field concerns. Many of those making negative comments have no knowledge of the stories involving Winston and have watched very little of his tape or game footage. The doubters and haters focus on Winston's high amount of interceptions or the fact that he was so "controversial" during his time at Florida State. Most of you reading this will know that I am bullish on Winston and thrilled that he will likely join the Buccaneers soon, but not all of you will know that I was not always so high on Jameis Winston.

In the interest of full disclosure I will fully admit that I am a Florida State alumnus and that I got two degrees from the university. Most of you already know that and the fact that I have liked this team since I was 2, but I wanted this out in the open before going on.

Here is my timeline of my reactions to Jameis Winston....
When Winston was recruited to play football and baseball at Florida State University I was beyond excited that we were getting such a rare talent.
During his true freshman season when he was being redshirted I was excited by what might be in football, but understanding (unlike some FSU fans) that it was still EJ's time and EJ should not be replaced by a Freshman. I think a lot of Winston's success came from learning at the hands of EJ during that season in which Winston was redshirted. It is also true that Winston learned a great deal from watching EJ play.
Later in the spring when he played baseball, I marveled at the talent that Winston had and was more excited after seeing what Jameis was able to do in the spring game.
Those first few games that HEISMAN AND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING football season I was amazed at the way this guy played. He came and announced himself and how good he was from day 1. I was amazed especially at how he got so much out of Kelvin Benjamin who did very little the year before, but always had fantastic talent. However, as excited as I was, I was cautious about my optimism because I realized how good these weapons were. I realized that every member of that offense would be in the NFL and most in a year or two. I wondered if the production would be quite the same without those same weapons. I knew the guy was fantastic though and deserved to be the #1 pick when it was time.
Then the rape allegation came. Not a charge, but a allegation. I have to be honest and admit that I didn't even think Jameis slept with the girl at first. The description in the police report was so far off the actual description of Jameis and to me it made the whole thing smell funny. Then as I learned more about the accuser I heard about the cleat chasing goals of the accuser and that she knew Jameis quite well. That made me convinced that he slept with her, but that it was 100% consensual.
Allegations would continue to come and Jameis would continue to move past it and perform. He was unflappable. Mudslinging from all corners and Winston would just win everything. This guy seemed like he could do anything on the field and was more and more impressive as time went on. The new allegations always seemed to come at the most inopportune time for Winston and the most opportune time from someone trying to make a buck and ruin a young man's life.
Winston of course was NEVER CHARGED and NEVER ARRESTED for the sexual assault accusation and was cleared time after time. After the case being dropped by Tallahassee PD, and later picked back up due to media pressure, (despite there being no good reason to pursue a bogus case) Winston was then not charged again by the Tallahassee DA. Now this is where the crazy conspiracy theories started about how the FSU Athletic Department, FSU PD, Tallahassee PD, and the Tallahassee DA all being in cohoots to protect Winston. This despite there being no evidence of this happening and the fact that it has been the exact opposite for years in Tallahassee. In fact, the District Attorney, William Meggs actually charged former Nole Travis Johnson of sexual assault with no evidence at an earlier date. Meggs would obviously lose that case as Johnson was an innocent man just like Jameis.
After Winston was cleared, he would go on to win the ACC Championship, win the Heisman, and win the National Title.
At that point I acknowledged Winston was the best QB and clearly the #1 pick, but I thought Hundley was pretty close. The amount of talent around Winston made me devalue him as a prospect. Hundley had less weapns and I wanted to see another season because of this. Winston was still the pick, but I thought Hundley was also Top 10 and had a shot to replace Winston. Marriota was not on my radar then as he isn't now because of his offense and the fact that he is not NFL ready. Unlike Winston haters though, I want all 3 to be successful. For that upcoming season though, I wanted to see what Winston did without studs like Kelvin Benjamin, Kenny Shaw, and Devonta Freeman.
During the offseason, Winston shoplifted crab legs from Publix (which appeared at the time to be a hookup gone wrong and today seemed to be confirmed). For this infraction, he had to do community service and was suspended from the baseball season. He was suspended from the sport he was in at the time and it was documented. He was not arrested because of a FL program to attempt not arrest or cite individuals with no criminal records for minor infractions. At this point and actually still to this day, Winston has no criminal record. However, myself and several other alums were disappointed in this instance. This was the first time I was truly disappointed in Winston's behavior. I do place a premium on athletes being great people after all.
Also throughout the offseason and into the season FSU conducted a Title IX investigation into its handling of the Jameis Winston case. This case would be decided by 1 of 3 former Supreme Court Justices in FL. Winston and the accuser each had the opportunity to select a judge and strike down a judge. After this process, both parties selected Chief Justice Harding. After hearing the case he did not find that Florida State or Jameis Winston had done anything to even violate the code of conduct of the school. He didn't even violate the code of conduct let alone do anything close to sexual assault or a crazy cover up. This justice, who happens to be one of the most respected lawyers and judges in Florida, that was selected by the accuser found no evidence that Winston did anything wrong.
During the season, Winston was even more impressive than the year before in my opinion honestly. He did not have the dominating team of the previous year, but on several occasions he willed his team to victory. Winston had a flair for the dramatic and won several games late. This guy was the king of the 4th quarter comeback.
As great as it was on the field for Winston, it got ugly off of it. Winston was accused week after week of doing all kinds of things wrong, but only one of the accusations proved true. That was a very inappropriate phrase yelled out near FSU's student union prior to the Clemson game. It involved some profanity and was not something that I would want anyone associated with my university saying. He would end up suspended from the Clemson game and would come out dressed for the game. Him dressing out just struck a cord with me because I was tired of my university being badmouthed everywhere because of one guy. A guy that didn't seem to be able to accept the consequences for his behavior.....I was just about done until I realized how misdirected my frustration was.....
It was not his fault that his uniform was placed in his locker and it was not his fault that he was the most scrutinized guy in the history of sports. He did not ask for this, he had just performed for my university. He has been falsely accused of more things than anybody since Jesus Christ. I firmly believe that. The stuff they say about this guy is unfathomable. And you know what...He just smiles carries on and carries himself with class. Most people want this guy dead or to fail miserably and he just goes about business. I have seen the most vulgar, hateful, insensitive things said about Jameis Winston and he just shakes it off. When I truly realized this, my opinion started to change.
As the season continued the mudslinging did too until fans finally got what they wanted...A Jameis Winston loss and his record to fall to 26-1 because that somehow makes everything okay.....

This last season and seeing everything Winston does had me convinced even more than year 1. This guy is the best quarterback prospect I have rated since at least Andrew Luck. I personally think he is better at this point than any quarterback since Sam Bradford to take it back further. Winston is so NFL ready and you already know he can handle the pressure. Jameis runs a pro style offense, he throws receivers open, he can handle intense situations, and he can put a team on his back and deliver them to victory. Shouldn't these qualities be celebrated? No not for Winston because of the hate, and some people have questions about interceptions because they don't look at the big picture.

Did you see the picks he threw? Some of them were just bad, but you realize most are the receiver running the wrong route, or a deflected ball, correct? You realize he runs that pro style offense and he has to throw those young receivers open, right? You realize that he always made it work for his Noles still and lost only 1 game in college right?

This is supposed to be some sort of insult? The guy losses one game in 2 years and it wasn't even his fault and you think this insults us?

HAHAHAHA

Every other team in America and every quarterback in every draft would kill for that record. You Gator fans went 4-8 during his title season. You Hurricane fans are rooting for a completely irrelevant team. And on and on...He was 26-1 by the way. Three of the wins during that winning streak were by quarterbacks other than Jameis. You saying he was 29-1 just shows that you think he is that good. Even the haters give him extra wins because you can't even imagine how this guy can ever possibly lose.

But, but, off the field concerns.....blah, blah, blah.

Do you realize how many horrible things Jameis Winston has been accused of and investigated for in great detail?

I can think of at least 15 accusations and the overwhelming majority have been proven to be complete nonsense and piling on. You know what people are so upset about Jameis Winston for.

Shoplifting crab legs

Cursing in public

Putting soda in a water cup

Shooting BB guns

Only those four instances are true and I can live with all of those. Given, I don't want them to happen and I was upset with Jameis when he did each, but these are things I see everyday (other than the crab legs incident). Is that really worth all the vitriol? Is that worth all the hate?

Truly think about it. All the money to be made on Winston failing, all the people trying to come up with things he did, all the people wanting him to fail, and we have four instances of him doing remotely anything wrong. That's it. Four minor infractions. Compare those infractions with what has happened this spring from Alabama football.......Let's just #BlameJameis for everything in the world though. If you can #BlameJameis than responsibility does not matter, right?

You know after everything last season and the crazy hate directed towards our university because of their hate for Jameis, FSU fans started to use the slogan embrace the hate. Well America, I think it is about the time you EMBRACE JAMEIS. Look at the facts and see why this guy is one of the most likable athletes in the country when it comes down to it. Talent and personality don't come around like this often and he's really a great guy, so just enjoy him while he's here. Hate really isn't a good look on you anyway.

Good luck Jameis on what is sure to be a fantastic NFL career.

-Noland

FSU Football Is Officially Back

This season sure has been incredible for the Seminole faithful. We have had a team that we could be proud of both on and off the field. One of the greatest teams ever has resided in Tallahassee in 2013. It has been a while since we could feel this good about a football season. This team allowed us to feel that way with its accomplishments. They were loaded with talent and exceeded every expectation. However, it is difficult to put into words how epic this season was for Nole Nation.

First, let me be honest and say I did not expect this level of dominance all year long. I thought we would go undefeated, but possibly squeezed out of the championship game. The Clemson game seemed to be a toss up. In fact, we were the lower ranked team going into that game. With the 51-14 score in that one, it was clear that the Seminoles were for real. The chance of getting into the national championship game became a very real possibility.

The chance was always there. The hype was always there. The talent was always there. For this season it was all laid out for us. It seemed unlikely with a freshman QB, but everyone was optimistic about the possibilities. This Freshman and this team very much overachieved. The scoring record though? Average 40+ point margin of victory? Who can realistically expect that? Apparently, the Seminole faithful can now expect that.

Fresh off the National Championship win, Jimbo Fisher said, "we plan on making this a regular thing." Well thank you for a great season Jimbo and the Seminole football team. We are so proud to have our dominant football team back. Everyone associated with FSU appreciates your efforts and looks forward to seeing what the future brings. Thank you for bringing that amazing amount of pride back to this fine University.
Unbeaten and Unconquered!
Go Noles!

-Noland

The Year Of The Seminole

For those of you who haven't heard I am high on FSU sports this year. This is the best our sports program has ever looked. I predicted an undefeated regular season for our football team, but even I am impressed with how good we have looked. Even I am impressed with this freshman QB that has been so impressive. However, it isn't just our football team that is turning heads.

I predicted at least two national championships for Florida State Athletics for this school year. My prediction might be exceeded at this point. While we have yet to clinch our first, the championships could start rolling in. Our first chance comes later today. In a few minutes our Seminole soccer team will take on the UCLA Bruins for the National Championship in girls soccer. How incredible is that? One of the most consistent teams in the country, FSU Soccer looks to impress today. No matter what happens later, it has been an awesome season for the Noles. That goal that Fields hit to put us in the ship was incredible. Three victories over a final four team in Virginia Tech is unheard of in any sport. This has been a dream run for the ladies and will hopefully result in national championship #1 for the 2013-2014 school year.
Photo Credit: Brad Smith, ISI photos

The other team still alive for the Seminoles in tournament play is the volleyball team. FSU volleyball defeated the hated Florida Gators Friday night to advance to the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA tournament. A 23 game losing streak @ Florida was snapped with the victory and has given the school a great amount of national prestige. FSU will play next Dec.13 when it looks to move onto the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament. This Friday our Seminoles will look to pull off another upset in Madison, Wisconsin over the Badgers. Hopefully, they can keep the magic alive.

Finally, we can talk about this great football team. The team that has won every game by at least 14 points. Every game except one of these contests was decided by at least 28 points. FSU has scored 40+ points in all, but one game. The latest victory brings the Seminoles to 13-0 and sends them to Pasadena. This Seminole team is so unbelievable that the 45-7 win seems like it wasn't the best FSU could do. It deserves to play for the title and will be exciting to watch on January 6th. Jameis Winston deserves the Heisman and Jimbo Fisher deserves all the praise he has gotten. FSU is back!

It doesn't end there though, FSU has more to come. Two national championships will be played for and that's just the fall. We still have winter and spring sports. Those sports include a powerhouse baseball team that will feature star Seminole Jameis Winston. The sports also include a basketball team that pummelled #10 VCU and took Michigan to the wire. We still have a track team that has won multiple national championships. No the Seminoles aren't done, we are just getting started.

Oh and Jimbo just signed a 5 year extension so this might as well be the decade of the Seminole. Go Noles! So Proud!

-Noland

Jameis Winston Doesn't Deserve This

It has been a while since I have posted on this blog. I have been crazy busy and I have not had anything I have really wanted to write a great deal about. The one exception has been my Florida State Seminoles and this awesome football team. However, I did not want to write anything and brag too much about how they are doing until the job was finished. That being said I have to talk about the current situation dominating sports news. It is a shame that I have to talk about it, but it is what it is.

Now, when I first saw the headlines, I have to say that I was shocked and horrified. I was horrified that anyone can do a bad deed. I am horrified that anyone can lay there hands on a woman. After I read the article I was still horrified, but for a different reason. I continued to do research on the matter before opening up my mouth because I wanted to confirm what I was reading. It was easy to come up with my conclusion that "this is complete and utter crap."

How can ESPN be so irresponsible? I expect this nonsense from TMZ, but not ESPN? This whole story about what Jameis Winston might have done is an absolute disgrace to the journalism profession, and to people in general.

Before I get into it I do want to thank Stephen A. Smith for being the one person in the media I have heard be honest about this situation. I agree with most of what he said and have copied it here.

Let's go over the facts here. The case is from December 2012 and is nearly a year old. It was closed in February and all of a sudden reopens and Jameis is blamed by a GOSSIP organization. He was never implicated of anything, was never named in a police report, and the police never questioned him. Not to mention that the alleged attacker was described as being between 5'9 and 5'11 in height and having a thick build. Jameis Winston is 6'4 and 235 and not a thick build. The assailant also reportedly had straight hair. Does Jameis Winson have straight hair?

All of the facts seem to point that this is a load of malarkey. The police don't seem to think he had anything to do with the crime. Judging by the description in the police report there is no reason to think Winston is involved with this crime at all. Is it possible that the victim described the height wrong? Absolutely, anything is possible. However, as a 6'2 man myself I have never been mistaken to be under 6 feet tall. Jameis Winston is 2 inches taller than me. Do we really think that a man as tall as the FSU QB can be mistaken as 5'10? Do we really think that Jameis Winston's hair can be considered straight under any circumstance? There are several other points to make about this story that seem to point towards Winston being 100% innocent and this story being ridiculous.

ESPN went so far yesterday to post an article with the headline "Winston not talking to police."
Of course he isn't talking to police. He has never been implicated of a crime by anyone besides you and TMZ. If the police weren't trying to talk to him, why would he talk to the police? Is he going to say, "excuse me officer do you have a minute so I can talk to you about some crap I'm not accused of that TMZ associated me with?" Is this where we are with this story? Do we really want to trash this man that badly? There is nothing tying this man to this crime. It is an absolute joke the stories being run.

Jameis Winston is the Heisman frontrunner and FSU is #2. It seems logical that someone brought up this old case and tried to throw Winston into it in order to derail that. It seems logical that somebody might be threatened by FSU. It seems rather fishy that a case closed in February is suddenly reopened just as many are considering FSU the title favorite. The timing is odd and this story stinks. I have my theories, but unlike those who reported this story I will not go around accusing random people.

Jameis Winston is the anti-Manziel, seems to be a good guy, and we love him at FSU. We all have his back. Whoever started this rumor must feel really good about themselves, but as always the truth will prevail. I am extremely confident that this was made up. I am not trying to make light of the situation or the victim. However, this type of accusation with no proof and nothing to go on should not happen in America. Innocent until proven guilty. Jameis is innocent unless proven otherwise. Lay off our quarterback. Now we know you are afraid. This guy is going nowhere. FSU is going to keep dominating that scoreboard. Light 'em up Jameis.

-Noland

Replacing the Drafted Seminoles

This past April, the Florida State Seminoles had 11 players drafted into the NFL. Another (Lonnie Pryor) is looking to make the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent. That makes 12 key Seminoles that have to be replaced. Is it possible that FSU could actually be a better team with all that talent leaving? Let's take a look position by position.

Quaterback
Outgoing: EJ Manuel
Incoming: Jameis Winston

How do the Noles replace a 4 time bowl winner? How about with a former #1 overall QB prospect. You would expect a huge dropoff here, but after the spring game I don't really buy it. Winston beat out the son of one of the coaches to claim this job. A guy that looked very composed in gametime against Clemson and Oklahoma. I think Winston will be fine. If Fisher opens up the playbook and doesn't run such a vanilla offense Winston could actually outperform Manuel. A lot of it depends on the playcalling. All of the wide receivers are coming back, four of five lineman, and two very productive backs. The talent is there from Winston and everyone else.

Runningback
Outgoing: Chris Thompson
Incoming: James Wilder Jr.
Chris Thompson while lightning fast and incredibly explosive was hurt the majority of the last two years. Wilder and Freeman showed flashes of brilliance last year and should take the next step as juniors this year. This could be a very good backfield duo. Wilder looks to be an absolute beast and many are predicting first team All-ACC for the back. If Wilder can play every game like that Clemson game last year, teams better watch out.


Fullback
Outgoing: Lonnie Pryor
Incoming: Chad Abram
Lonnie Pryor is a huge loss for the Seminoles. Pryor was a leader, a playmaker, and an unsung hero. He did all of the little things and was my favorite Seminole the past few years. I am very concerned with how he can be replaced. As worried as I am though, I trust that the talent is there. Wilder could play in a lot of sets the same time as Freeman. Chad Abram could be a very good blocking fullback as well.

Offensive Tackle
Outgoing: Manelik Watson
Incoming: Bobby Hart
Manelik Watson was an incredible talent and an interesting prospect with a lot of upside. Most considered him a project and thought he needed a little more seasoning in college. So of course the Oakland Raiders drafted him because most consider him not ready for the pros. Watson's talent will be missed, but he certainly is a replaceable piece. Bobby Hart has started several games for the Noles in the past and gives the Noles what could be considered a fully returning offensive line. That should give some comfort to the young signal caller for the Noles. The offensive line should be a strength for Florida State and that hasn't been a common theme lately.

Defensive Tackle
Outgoing: Everett Dawkins
Incoming: Eddie Goldman
Dawkins was in a three man rotation at tackle with McAlister and Jernigan. Most people considered Dawkins the worst talent of the group, but he got plenty of time because he was a senior. Now that he's gone, the other two will get even more time and Eddie Goldman will look to be the #3 guy. Goldman is a former 5 star recruit that Warchant considers the #5 most likely Nole to breakout this season. Goldman could likely breakout with increased time and all that talent. The future NFL player looks to make an impact for FSU in 2013.

Defensive End
Outgoing: Bjoern Werner, Brandon Jenkins, and Tank Carradine
Incoming: Mario Edwards, Dan Hicks, and Chris Casher
Brandon Jenkins was considered the best of the group and was even my #1 Seminole heading into 2012 and then he got hurt in game 1. That crushed most Seminole fans including me. However, Tank Carradine filled in and did a great job. Finally, Bjoern Werner proved he clearly deserved to be a 1st round pick. What an amazing group. How can the Seminoles possibly replace that?
They replace it by being loaded at defensive end. FSU is officially becoming DE U. Mario Edwards is a former #1 player in the nation who filled in during the bowl game while Carradine was hurt. Edwards is a monster and no Seminole fan doubts he will be successful, but some are concerned about the other two spots. They shouldn't be though. Dan Hicks is a senior leader and super athletic. Chris Casher is a former All-American and four star recruit. Casher was the #36 player overall in his class.

Linebacker
Outgoing: Nick Woody and Vince Williams
Incoming: Terrance Smith and Telvin Smith
Vince Williams was considered by some the best player in his unit, but Chrisitan Jones was the superior football player and he is coming back for his senior season. Telvin Smith actually started quite a few times last year and got at least even playing time with Nick Moody. With Smith and Jones back this should be a great group. Terrance Smith is a workhorse sophomore that looks to impress. If there is a question in the linebacking corps it is with the younger Smith as he is a bit more unknown.

Defensive Back
Outgoing: Xavier Rhodes
Incoming: Nick Waisome
Xavier Rhodes was one of the best corners in the country. However, it occasionally looked like he took some plays off. I do not foresee that problem with Waisome as I have talked about him in the past. Rhodes is a better player and was the best prospect on FSU's roster last year, but Waisome could have a big year. The Seminoles need Waisome to fill the void left by Rhodes. This is the most key starter on defense for the Noles. If Waisome plays a great corner, FSU likely will have the best defensive backfield in the ACC and one of the best in the country. If he isn't it could be a disappointing season defensively. The rest of the defensive backfield looks great.

Kicker
Outgoing: Dustin Hopkins
Incoming: Roberto Aguayo
Dustin Hopkins was one of the best kickers in the history of college football. Replacing him is a tough task. However, it is possible. FSU replaced the amazing Graham Gano with an even better kicker in Dustin Hopkins. Don't expect that here. Hopkins is so good it would be unfair to expect someone better. Hopkins is an amazing kicker, but his great job replacing Gano gives Noles fans hope. There is hope that Roberto Aguayo can follow in the footsteps of awesome recent FSU kickers.

Overall, I think the Noles can replace all of these great athletes. It is one of the many reasons that I expect FSU to have a big year and possibly be a contender.

-Noland

Seminole Athlete Saves The Day

I know as Seminoles fans we are used to seeing FSU athletes excel in competition, but it is really great when they excel outside of sport. That is just what one of our beloved Seminole cornerbacks did recently. Nick Waisome helped his community in a very uncommon way. According to yahoo the FSU corner helped police track down and arrest two burglary suspects.

Last month, Waisome entered his apartment and found two men there robbing it. When Waisome entered the men ran. The football star knocked one of the criminals to the ground before catching the other one and calling police. The cops were able to arrest the second man that Waisome caught and catch the one he knocked over later. It is nice to see a crime averted and an ordinary citizen stopping people who want to do harm to others.

One of the individuals that Waisome helped catch had been involved in multiple burglaries and is being held on multiple felony charges. Waisome actually helped catch the one individual at a later date by telling police his plates when he saw the individual. Absolutely, amazing story from a true All-American in every sense of the word.

We look forward to big things from Nick Waisome in the near future both on and off the field. Waisome is a rising junior and one that has Seminole fans excited. A lot more excited than this Gators athlete has the Gator nation. Or this one. On and off the field the Seminoles prove to be superior.

-Noland

More College Football Picks

I was running some errands this morning and we are anxiously awaiting the little one. These predictions are a little later than usual considering some games are in progress, but most of the ones I am picking are after the noon start anyway. Also the current scores have no effect on my predictions.

 

Georgia Tech over Middle Tennessee

Army over Stony Brook

NC State over Miami

Wake Forest over Duke

Texas A&M over Arkansas

Georgia over Tennessee

Clemson over BC

UNC over Idaho

UVA over Louisiana Tech

Navy over San Jose State

 

Virginia Tech over Cincinnatti

The Hokies are playing at Fed Ex Field in a very interesting game. These Cincinnatti Bearcats beat Pittsburgh by 24. The same Pittsburgh team that upset the Hokies a few weeks back. This is a huge game for the ACC. Cincinatti is a very strong team. In fact, I would not be disappointed in the Bearcats joined the ACC as the 16th team. Do not sleep on the Bearcats. I got the Hokies in an extremely close game. This could easily be the game of the day.

The only game more important for me is...

Florida State over USF

The game is in Tampa. I now live in the Tampa area. However, the baby is coming at any moment, so I will not be attending this game. Luckily for me, I do not think USF stands much of a chance. I mean how could they USF is just FSU backwards. They are not in our league. The only way this one is close is if our players bought into the hype to much. That is not impossible to believe given our recent history, but we should win big. Go Noles!

Upset Special

New Mexico over Boise State

No blue field. No bs. New Mexico is not expected to win this game. Boise coming off a tough game. Just a hunch. Trap game in the Mountain West.

 

LSU over Towson

South Carolina over Kentucky

Alabama over Ole Miss

10 College Football Fanbases That Need To Pipe Down

I am not even going to pick on the horrible fanbases over @ Miami and Florida. These are 10 other groups of fans that need to quiet down.

10. Penn State
If I were a Penn State fan, I would want to be quiet during this time. The stuff that happened over there is absolutely disgusting. However, these guys somehow are on TV every week and there are some Penn State fans that are still whining.

9. Michigan Wolverines
Nobody really cares about the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry in the south. It is a meaningless rivalry that really doesn't matter. These guys always claim to be legit (I admit I bought in this year), but rarely are. They don't have the speed to play with the real elite of the nation. Michigan fans also typically think they know a lot about sports, but don't really know anything.

8. North Carolina Tar Heels
Yes, you have an amazing basketball program, no you do not have good football. You never will be elite in the ACC in football. You had to cheat to get the success you did get. Just be quiet. Plus you guys rooted for Butch Davis....

7. UCLA Bruins
Don't act like you care about football when your team starts out well. Now they lost and they will be quiet again until they win. UCLA is not USC level in football or anything, but yet when they win or before a matchup they talk trash. Just like they talked trash before they played FSU in the bowl a few years back. Then they lost and...

6. Boise State
Your team plays on a blue field and plays garbage competition. You cannot compete consistently with the nation's elite. They won't even win the Big East next year when they join. That one point win over BYU at home on your blue field is worthy of the top 25 ranking though. Keep thinking that.

5. Ohio State
You guys are on probation. Deal with it. Nobody cares about your school or your rivalry with Michigan. You barely beat UAB. You will always have Maurice Clarett though.

4. West Virginia
Really? You all are saying FSU is legit when they play a legit team like WVU. You mean the same WVU that backed out of a commitment to play FSU. Ok. Keep telling yourself that your team could take the Noles. You do realize that your team is 0-3 all time against the Noles, right? No, ok keep talking nonsense then.

3. SEC Fans
I put all SEC Fans together, because honestly if I broke them up team by team, they'd have at least 7 of the top 10 spots.
The SEC is good. They are the best conference, but they are not as good as you think they are.
Auburn got beat easily by Clemson in Week 1. Auburn took LSU to the brink yesterday. Clemson looked better against Auburn than LSU did. Oh, and Clemson beat Auburn without their best player. Clemson didn't have Sammy Watkins this year.
Vanderbilt lost to Northwestern.
Ole Miss got destroyed by Texas.
Let's not overdo it. Alabama is loaded and so is Georgia, but let's not act like every team is a title contender.
Also Arkansas and Kentucky are completely terrible.

2. Fans of Players Kicked Off the Team
I threw this one in there because every fanbase has this guy. The guy who is an apologist for some idiot that got kicked off the team. Then every time a bad play happens they say "if so and so were still here that wouldn't have happened." They do it for graduated players too. For FSU it is the Greg Reid apologists. They were out in full force last night when Greene fumbled the punt. Nevermind that Greene has 2 punt return TDs already this season and Greg Reid fumbled a return every other game, but hey its fun to say things in hindsight right? Oh Greene had a TD catch last night too and Reid's replacement at corner Waisome had the interception that ended Clemson's hope.
LSU has those guys that talk about the Honey Badger all the time.
Florida still has everyone obsessed with Tebow.
Just stop it you are annoying fans.

1. We want the backup QB
The most popular player in the stadium, the back up QB. Just remember there is a reason that the backup does not start. This fan is in every stadium at every level. The fans love the backup QB. Heck, I don't doubt that there are guys asking for Aaron Rodgers to get benched on the Packers. Believe it or not there are still Noles fans that don't believe in EJ Manuel. There are honestly Tech fans that think they would have won a national championship if they had benched Michael Vick. The fan that constantly screams for the backup QB is the most annoying and short sided fan there is. Unless your QB is Heath Shuler...

Then there are two fanbases that need to get louder
1) Seminole Fans
For years we have been mocked by those saying we are overrated and that people jumped the gun on us being back. Now with the huge win and our first title contender in years, we need to get loud.

2) Notre Dame Fans
These guys have had it worse than Seminole fans. These guys are constantly being told that their football team isn't even relevant. This is all despite the fact that they have the biggest fanbase and the best TV deal. Now that they are poised to rejoin the top 10, enjoy yourselves.

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



9/15 College Football Picks

Let me start with the most important game for most of you.

Florida State over Wake Forest

This Demon Deacon team has been a pain in the neck to us Seminole fans. This team has really given us problems recently. Including their upset win last year, most of us want no part of Wake Forest. However, this year we should have too much talent for them to compete. I think their upset last year will have us focused as well. Jim Grobe does have great counters to our schemes though and as you know by now I have a tremendous for Jim Grobe. Today I think we win no problem, Jimbo has these boys focused.

Virginia Tech over Pittsburgh

Northern Illinois over Army

Miami over Bethune Cookman

 

Maryland over UCONN

Big game for Maryland with Randy Edsall facing off against his old school. Fresh off an upset win over Temple, the Terps should move to a surprising 3-0 record.

 

Auburn over LA Monroe

This game has a lot more attention after the latter team knocked off Arkansas last week. It seems unlikely that Monroe will knock off a second SEC team in a row and move Auburn to to 0-3 though.

 

Vandy over Presbyterian

Clemson over Furman

 

Alabama over Arkansas

Alabama will absolutely curbstomp Arkansas. I am calling for a huge margin of victory. We are talking 50 points maybe. Alabama is looking to make a statement and Arkansas is looking like a pile of garbage this year. John L.Smith was such a terrible coaching decision as I said on this blog at the time. That was the worst coaching hire made in an extremely long time and Arkansas will have a rough year because of it.

 

Georgia Tech over UVA

Georgia Tech has looked better this year from what I have seen. Love Mike London as a coach, but they looked pretty horrible last week.

 

Upset Special #1

Boston College over Northwestern

So not much of an upset, but Northwestern is 2-0 and coming off a huge win over Vandy. BC looks ready to go. They did lose to Miami though, so I am not super confident in this pick.

 

Louisville over UNC

Louisville looks tough. UNC doesn't. This one might not be close.

 

Penn State over Navy

Penn State looked good last week and Navy has not looked to great this year. Penn State gets their first win since 1998 in this one.

 

Upset Special #2

SMU over A&M

Coming off a hard fought loss to the Gators, SMU welcomes the Aggies. These guys want to prove they can play with the big boys and that they are back.

 

NC State over South Alabama

 

Tennessee over Florida

The Vols want to prove they are a threat again in the SEC East and this is a statement game for them.

Missouri over Arizona State

Arizona State is one of the few teams that I have not seen this season. I have seen Missouri and they looked good for most of the game against a great Georgia team. Think Missouri wins a close game today.

 

South Carolina over UAB

Miss State over Troy

Georgia over Florida Atlantic

LSU over Idaho

 

Texas over Ole Miss

The Longhorns look to prove they are legit and make a statement today against the SEC.

 

Bonus Pick: Upset Special #3

Notre Dame over Michigan State

The Fighting Irish against Sparty looks like a toss up game to me. This game definitely could go either way. It will be interesting to see how the Irish do as the competition heats up. This is the game of the day for me.

 

-Noland



College Football Picks For Today

More ACC, SEC, and Interesting Game Picks. I missed on one game last week, but had a very solid first week. I even hit on my upset special. Here are some more picks...

Kansas State over Miami

Miami wasn't that impressive in a win over a BC team that isn't that good. Kansas State has better athletes and will win the game at home.

 

NC State over UConn

The Wolfpack should get back on track against an unimpressive UCONN team.

 

Temple over Maryland

I told you that Maryland was the worst team in the ACC and could lose to William & Mary. They almost did, and they will lose tonight.

 

UVA over Penn State

The Cavs are going to be good this year. Penn State is not going to be good. This one could get rather ugly.

Auburn over Mississippi State

One of the games of the week. I expect Auburn to bounce back after a loss to a very good Clemson team, that could easily compete for a national title. Auburn could still affect the title picture and will win a tough game today.

 

South Carolina over East Carolina

Clemson over Ball State

BC over Maine

Virginia Tech over Austin Peay

 

UNC over Wake

If Maryland is the worst team in the ACC, Wake isn't that far behind this year it seems. Wake looked pathetic against Liberty last week. If they are going to upset the Tar Heels a lot has to change. Based on last week and talent on their rosters, UNC wins in a route. As a big Jim Grobe fan, I hope I am wrong and Wake pulls it out.

 

Alabama over Western Kentucky

 

Michigan over Air Force

Michigan burned me last week. There is a chance they will do it again. Depending on how much hangover there is about last week's beatdown, Michigan could easily lose to Air Force. I expect Brady Hoke to bounce back against the service academy though.

 

Notre Dame over Purdue

The Irish looked impressive last week. This team could get to the BCS if they build off last week. Will there be hangover from a long trip though against a good Purdue team?

 

Texas A&M over Florida

A & M will impress in their SEC debut. Florida looked horrible in their opening game last week. It is all setting up for the Aggies.

 

Tennessee over Georgia State

 

FSU over Savannah State

Lots of people have been giving the Noles flack over this opponent. However, consider that it was supposed to be West Virginia and then the Mountaineers bailed. With West Virginia on the docket the Noles had 3 legit out of conference opponents. Without them it doesn't look as well, but when an opponent bails we are left with who we can get. So in comes the huge underdog Savannah State who will get thrashed this week.

LSU over Washington

Arkansas over Louisiana Monroe

Georgia Tech over Presbyterian

 

Army over San Diego State

The black knights will get it done in this one. This team will get close to bowl eligible, not sure they get there, but they get on track today.

 

Kentucky over Kent State

 

Georgia over Missouri

This one makes me nervous. The four suspensions on defense for the Bulldogs could cause them problems given that this is Missouri's SEC debut and they will look to impress at home. However, these guys have to much talent to lose this one.

 

Upset Special

Duke over Stanford

Some wouldn't call this an upset, but Stanford is ranked and Duke is not. Also most people still expect Duke to lose all the time. It will take a while for that perception to change. I will have said numerous times that Duke is no longer the ACC doormat. I also believe they get to bowl eligible this year. Today these guys prove it.

 



I Believe In EJ Manuel

Yesterday, following a 69-3 win by Florida State, several FSU fans seemed rather upset. Judging by some of their comments you would think we had lost the game. Sure it was just Murray State, but let's take a step back for a second. Most of these negative comments involved quaterback EJ Manuel. All of those nasty comments about EJ were rather unfair.

Let's look at the facts. EJ did not have his best game yesterday.  He wasn't awful though. His record as starting QB now sits at 14-4. That track record should have Noles fans excited. This guy is the most successful quarterback by record since Weinke. Also if you want to look at accuracy, his career completion percentage is 66.1%. That percentage is best in FSU history. Yes, that percentage is higher than Ward, Weinke, Weldon, Johnson, Kannell, Busby, and Ponder. This guy can lead. If you want to look at last year, he only lost 1 game in which he was able to play the whole way through. Additionally, he played through an injury for a large portion of that season. Also for pass efficiency he is 3rd in ACC history currently, behind only Chris Weinke and Joe Hamilton. Hamilton almost won a Heisman and Weinke did.

Look, I realize the backup QB is usually the most popular person in football, but let's not get crazy here. Trickett while also capable in my opinion, cannot do the same things EJ can. Do not forget that Clint Trickett is a bit undersized and 0-2 as a starter. Do not pin that loss to Wake on EJ. He was hurt, came in late, and still almost led the comeback. There is absolutely no QB controversy. Clint Trickett is no more deserving of an opportunity now than EJ was in the Ponder years. Some of the same people begging for EJ then are now calling for his head now. Absolutely insane. I like Trickett, but it is not his time yet.

Manuel has beaten West Virginia, Clemson, Florida, and South Carolina in his short time as starter. Let's have some faith and realize he is the guy.

Do I think EJ Manuel is currently the best QB in the country? No.
Do I think he is the best player on this team? No.
Do I think he is capable of leading FSU back to the National Title? You better believe it.

Sure, FSU might not win it all. Sure they may lose a game or two. Clemson and Virginia Tech are looking very very tough. However, if they do not win it all this year, it will not be because of EJ Manuel starting over Clint Trickett. The backup will have his time and can win if need be, but to say he is better is just foolish. Let's appreciate this future NFL QB a little more than some of us appreciated Christian Ponder. I know this is not all of the Seminole faithful, but it is some. To all those that believe, keep being supportive of EJ and let him know we got his back. I like our chances this season, and EJ is a big reason why.
Go Noles!!!

-Noland

Roscoe Parrish Knocked Out Again

Sorry it has been a while since my last post. Been super busy with this school year, but I will try to get at least one post a week, and will shoot for more than that.

The big news for me lately is that football season is about to begin! FSU kicks off on Saturday, and it looks to be a strong year for the Seminoles. When you think of Seminole football it is hard not to think of the many great Seminole moments. One of those moments was what happened to Roscoe Parrish.

Well Parrish was knocked out then and is knocked out now. His NFL career appears to be over since he was cut by the San Diego Chargers.

We will always have such great memories of Roscoe Parrish here at Robinson Athletic News. For it is because of Roscoe Parrish that Stanford Samuels is a household name for Seminole fans. This cut just gave me another reason to post this amazing video. Another Seminole masterpiece.

Stanford Samuels wherever he is, knows that Seminole fans will always remember that hit.

-Noland

Why Reid Leaving Is Good For FSU

Last year I said as soon as we get rid of Greg Reid and Nigel Bradham, we would be right back in the national championship race. Why would I say that and do I still believe it? Well, you better believe that I still believe it, and here is why...

Greg Reid is selfish. You can tell it by his criminal actions and you can tell it by his play on the field. Reid has been arrested now at least twice and he has allegedly failed a drug test this year. Perhaps that is why he got his 1 game suspension for undisclosed reasons last year. The guy always went for big hits instead of sure tackles. Always went for the pick instead of knocking the ball away and often bit on cuts made by receivers in their routes. He went for the glory at all times. Yes, sometimes he delivered, but a lot of the time he didn't. Who can't remember a Greg Reid fumble on a punt return? I know I can think of at least 3 just now.

Those types of players aren't what FSU needs. They have talent, but we've had talent since 2001 and have played in exactly one BCS game in that time. We need smart players that are talented and play assignment football. I don't believe that was Reid. I do believe that Nick Waisome is that guy. Waisome will play better football this year than Reid ever did. He will be consistent and the fans will love him.

This also means that Jimbo will not let the inmates run the asylum. He made a good move here. A gutsy move, and a move that may be unpopular. We saw what happens when you let inmates run the asylum in Florida and Penn State. Not here at FSU, no sir. We saw what happens when all you care about is winning @ Penn State. Fisher cared about doing the right thing and he didn't care about the potential impact for it. I respect Fisher more for it, and FSU will be stronger for it. This is Jimbo's ship and he is going to lead us to victory.

I know the fans love Reid, but we are better off now. No more of the Reid calling attention to himself on punt returns, now we have guys that will try to do what is best for the team. Time to win some games.

-Noland

CBS Sports: Noles May Live Up To Hype

Don't know how many of you saw this on Saturday, but Bruce Feldman had some pretty high praise for FSU QB EJ Manuel. In this article for CBS sports says why FSU may live up to preseason hype. All FSU fans, including myself would love it if Manuel came through and led FSU back to the promised land. I highly recommend reading the article and will pull some highlights out here.

Apparently, EJ Manuel has improved in how he has transferred his weight and even Manuel noticed the difference. EJ also thinks he can complete 70% of his passes. He hit on 65% of passes last year. Feldman called Manuel "one of the most impressive college players you'd ever meet. He has a presence about him where you come away convinced that he'd be a success at whatever he attempted." That is pretty high praise from Feldman. Nice to know that the Seminoles possess players like this.

Manuel thinks he will be much improved and has put in a lot of hard work this offseason. He says that we will be impressed with Kelvin Benjamin. Finally, he says that the D-Line is "gonna be Kuh-RAZY!"

Get excited Noles fans! It's gonna be a good year, I can feel it!

-Noland

Greg Reid Has Got to Go

Tuesday night, Greg Reid was arrested on numerous charges. Initially, Reid was pulled over for having illegally tinted windows. He was going to get a warning for that, but there were two problems. 1) Reid was driving on a suspended license.
2) There was marijuana in the car.
Oh, there was also a seat-belt violation.
How can Reid be so stupid? If you are going to drive with a suspended license, how about having legal windows? Or better yet pay your tickets so your license is no longer suspended. I will not even talk about the marijuana.

This nonsense has no place at FSU. These distractions should not take place and we should hold our athletes to a higher standard. Not only that, Reid was arrested for perjury last fall. Those charges were dropped, but don't you think Reid would stay clean after that? Reid was also suspended a game last year for unspecified reasons.
I think with his history of getting in trouble, we need to get rid of the guy after his latest issues. I am all for 2nd chances, but enough is enough.

-Noland