Texas had to work a little harder than expected but in the end they had enough to beat Iowa in the Alamo Bowl, 26-24, behind quarterback Colt McCoy.
The freshman quarterback had a difficult task this season, stepping in for Vince Young and his national championship season, yet he did it with style, finishing with 29 touchdown passes, 10 wins and a bowl victory.
McCoy threw for 308 yards and two touchdowns in a typical performance, keeping the Longhorns in the game on a night when they surprisingly could not run the football, finishing with just 89 yards on 34 carries.
The Black and Gold Truth...This UT team can't be compared to last season's but it was still very good. People in Austin might be disappointed with three losses but it was a transition year, one that will take the Longhorns one step closer to potential dominance next year. McCoy might not be Young, might not have been as highly regarded as Jevan Sneed, who has since transferred, or one time verbal Ryan Perriloux, who reneged last year to sign with LSU, or John Brantley, who reneged this past week to verbal to Florida, but he is the last man standing and ready to continue his climb on the record book at Texas. Mack Brown knows what he's doing as Longhorns' coach and will continue doing what he set out to do -- keep the best local talent home and turn the program into the equivalent of the old Florida schools, which did the same to dominate college football with those players.
Next up....On Monday, Nebraska and Auburn meet in the Cotton Bowl. Read below (yesterday's post) for a look at that game. Also tomorrow, a post on an interview with the Sporting News' Mike DeCourcy on college basketball and Colorado basketball.
Saturday Night...Nevada and Gonzaga, two of the best basketball programs in the West met and Mark Fox's team beat Mark Few's, 82-74. Former Colorado prep talents Nick Fazekas (Nevada) and Matt Bouldin (Gonzaga) each played well as Fazekas scored 24 points and added nine rebounds while Bouldin drained a couple of three-pointers and finished with 10 points, five rebounds and three assists, showing a balanced game.
Big 12...No. 9 Kansas beat Rhode Island, 80-69, behind 23 points from Julian Wright and 19 from Brandon Rush. The Jayhawks weren't flawless but did hold the Rams to 37 percent shooting (ah, defense).
BGT: KU is still trying to find its' identity but is so talented they are not dropping games in the process.
No. 13 Oklahoma State had no trouble with Texas-San Antonio in a 84-47 win. The Cowboys were dominant everywhere, shooting 55 percent from the floor and doubling up the Roadrunners on the boards (34-17). Smooth-shooting guard JamesOn Curry led the attack with 24 points, sophomore guard Terrel Harris, a player on the rise, scored 15 and beefy forward Mario Boggan finished with 13 points and 11 rebounds.
BGT: The Cowboys are not going to be a NCAA tournament power but in the Big 12 they will be formidable, with Boggan, Curry and Harris. The questions are whether they can find another player to step to the forefront and whether the role players can be satisfied and effective doing their jobs. Right now, KU, OSU and Texas are the teams to watch, with Texas A & M on the next level.
Missouri ripped Southern, 87-58, despite shooting under 42 percent from the floor. The Tigers won by forcing 32 turnovers and winning on the glass (41-32). Sophomore forward Matt Lawrence scored 24 points to lead Missouri, freshman guard Keon Lawrence added 17, and junior guard Stefhon Hannah (remember that name) had 13 points, four rebounds and six steals.
BGT: Coach Mike Anderson has the Tigers re-energized and playing well in his first season. The Tigers might not be a tournament team yet but they will be more difficult to play and the future looks promising. Quin Snyder's leadership had grown stale and the controversy surrounding him had become too much for success to happen.
Nebraska beat Miami, 82-67, getting seven 3-pointers and 25 points from guard Marcus Perry. Center Alexs Maric added 18 points and eight rebounds in the victory.
BGT: Maric is the one constant for the Huskers. Doc Sadler is doing good things already for this program. If he can recruit, Nebraska is on the way up in the conference standings.
Baylor beat Delaware State, 59-56, behind 18 points from Aaron Bruce.
BGT: The Bears may not be getting anyone's attention but the way they run their offense to get and make good shots is impressive.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Former Colorado talent getting attention
A report from ESPN.com's Insider says a former Colorado prep player might be first-round worthy after this season, his first in college ball.
Chad Ford writes about the type of talent that the Buffs have to keep home in the future.
"(Matt) Bouldin is another big guard who shows exceptional court vision and leadership on the floor for a freshman. Right now, Gonzaga has him playing mostly 2-guard and small forward which has hurt his stock a little. And his play has been pretty up and down. He was great against North Carolina and Washington and then threw up a terrible game against Duke.
Chad Ford writes about the type of talent that the Buffs have to keep home in the future.
"(Matt) Bouldin is another big guard who shows exceptional court vision and leadership on the floor for a freshman. Right now, Gonzaga has him playing mostly 2-guard and small forward which has hurt his stock a little. And his play has been pretty up and down. He was great against North Carolina and Washington and then threw up a terrible game against Duke.
Of the Top 13 (freshmen), he's the guy most likely to stay in school for another year or two. But if he comes out, someone will grab him in the late first round."
More Ford..."some scouts feel he might have a little John Stockton in him, too. But the best comparison may be a non-Gonzaga alum -- Deron Williams (Utah Jazz)."
The Black and Gold Truth...Bouldin is a player that should have been convinced to stay in-state but wasn't. That is just one shortcoming in the current state of the program. That said, Ricardo Patton's recruitment of Xavier Silas is looking very promising.
Another player on Ford's Top-13 Freshman list was Texas' Kevin Durant, a surefire NBA star one day soon. The Buffs get an up close look at him on Jan. 6. Ford has him as the best talent in the upcoming draft but likely second pick overall if he declares, behind Ohio State center Greg Oden, another freshman.
Another Big-12 potential lottery pick is Kansas State freshman Bill Walker.
As of now, Ford's analysis has CU's Richard Roby tumbling to the latter part of round 1 (it's still guaranteed money) or into the second round. Picked in the same general area but ahead of Roby is yet another former Colorado high schooler, Nevada center Nick Fazekas.
Recruiting News...Craig Haubert of Scout.com and ESPN's Insider reports that Texas' loss of quarterback John Brantley, a defection to Florida, could have a rippling effect on a Colorado prep.
To replace Brantley, Haubert speculates the Longhorns could look for commits at other schools, including Clint Brewster of Mullen, who has verballed to Illinois.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Red Raiders make history, Horns and Huskers next
Big-12 bowling
Texas Tech was dead, trailing 38-7 in the third quarter to Minnesota, before finding that moment to turn things around.
And turn things around it did as the Red Raiders roared back and beat the Golden Gophers, 44-41, in double overtime in the Insight Bowl.
Graham Harrell threw for 445 yards and two touchdowns and Shannon Woods rushed for 108 yards and three scores as Texas Tech created a story for the ages in school history.
The Black and Gold Truth: The win is one that will be talked about for years but also shows the problem of focusing so much on offense and not enough on defense. I won't use the word "never" but it will be highly unlikely this type of team will be top 10 often or win a BCS bowl game. And for all the big numbers the players put up, once they graduate who remembers a Red Raider quarterback's name? A receiver's name? They're system players, not necessarily great talents. That said, the offense works most games. The best defenses, however, usually shut it down.
Missouri had it going strong.
On offense.
But winning games also requires some defense too.
The numbers are still startling.
583 yards of offense.
38 points.
And the Tigers still lost.
How would you like to be the defensive coordinator come film time?
Oregon State's late two-point conversion gave the Beavers, ranked no. 24, a 39-38 win over the Missouri in the Sun Bowl, wasting Tony Temple's 195 yards rushing and two touchdowns and Chase Daniel's 342 yards passing and two scores.
The Tigers' defense was competitive all season long but failed miserably in the loss to Oregon State.
BGT:The good news for that program is the talent level is significantly higher than its' been in years and coach Gary Pinkel is getting players to come to Columbia. The flip side of the coin is his team collapsed down the stretch, losing five of its' last seven games. Pinkel won't lose his job but he lost all the fuzzy feelings his team generated with fans and boosters with a 6-0 start.
With some more help at receiver, however, and on the offensive line and defense, it wouldn't take much for the Tigers to take a step foward next season.
Next Up...On Saturday, Texas plays Iowa in the Alamo Bowl in a slight home-field advantage for the Longhorns. Still, it's a far cry from playing USC for the national title as they did a season ago. That said, as well coached as the Hawkeyes are, as big a game as this is for Iowa quarterback Drew Tate, a Texan and an accomplished talent, this should be all Texas, all day. A big win helps soothe the wounds of a rare three-loss season in Austin under Mack Brown.
On Monday Nebraska plays Auburn in the Cotton Bowl, which will be a telling sign as to where the Cornhuskers' program really is these days. Beat a solid Tigers team and the Nebraska can crow that it is on the precipe of great things. Lose and the questions will grow louder for Bill Callahan, despite his outstanding recruiting.
Auburn has shown the propensity to turn in flat performances from time to time, getting bounced big by Arkansas and Georgia but it also beat LSU and Florida. Which Tigers' team will show up is the question.
Nebraska's defense is no longer intimidating but the offense is good enough to cover for it in most games. The higher scoring this contest becomes the more it favors the Huskers. In quarterback Zac Taylor, the depth at running back in Brandon Jackson, Marlon Lucky and Cody Glenn and the production from receivers Maurice Purify and Terrence Nunn, Nebraska, on paper, has a strong opportunity to win and make a statement. Avoid turnovers and it likely will emerge victorious.
Texas Tech was dead, trailing 38-7 in the third quarter to Minnesota, before finding that moment to turn things around.
And turn things around it did as the Red Raiders roared back and beat the Golden Gophers, 44-41, in double overtime in the Insight Bowl.
Graham Harrell threw for 445 yards and two touchdowns and Shannon Woods rushed for 108 yards and three scores as Texas Tech created a story for the ages in school history.
The Black and Gold Truth: The win is one that will be talked about for years but also shows the problem of focusing so much on offense and not enough on defense. I won't use the word "never" but it will be highly unlikely this type of team will be top 10 often or win a BCS bowl game. And for all the big numbers the players put up, once they graduate who remembers a Red Raider quarterback's name? A receiver's name? They're system players, not necessarily great talents. That said, the offense works most games. The best defenses, however, usually shut it down.
Missouri had it going strong.
On offense.
But winning games also requires some defense too.
The numbers are still startling.
583 yards of offense.
38 points.
And the Tigers still lost.
How would you like to be the defensive coordinator come film time?
Oregon State's late two-point conversion gave the Beavers, ranked no. 24, a 39-38 win over the Missouri in the Sun Bowl, wasting Tony Temple's 195 yards rushing and two touchdowns and Chase Daniel's 342 yards passing and two scores.
The Tigers' defense was competitive all season long but failed miserably in the loss to Oregon State.
BGT:The good news for that program is the talent level is significantly higher than its' been in years and coach Gary Pinkel is getting players to come to Columbia. The flip side of the coin is his team collapsed down the stretch, losing five of its' last seven games. Pinkel won't lose his job but he lost all the fuzzy feelings his team generated with fans and boosters with a 6-0 start.
With some more help at receiver, however, and on the offensive line and defense, it wouldn't take much for the Tigers to take a step foward next season.
Next Up...On Saturday, Texas plays Iowa in the Alamo Bowl in a slight home-field advantage for the Longhorns. Still, it's a far cry from playing USC for the national title as they did a season ago. That said, as well coached as the Hawkeyes are, as big a game as this is for Iowa quarterback Drew Tate, a Texan and an accomplished talent, this should be all Texas, all day. A big win helps soothe the wounds of a rare three-loss season in Austin under Mack Brown.
On Monday Nebraska plays Auburn in the Cotton Bowl, which will be a telling sign as to where the Cornhuskers' program really is these days. Beat a solid Tigers team and the Nebraska can crow that it is on the precipe of great things. Lose and the questions will grow louder for Bill Callahan, despite his outstanding recruiting.
Auburn has shown the propensity to turn in flat performances from time to time, getting bounced big by Arkansas and Georgia but it also beat LSU and Florida. Which Tigers' team will show up is the question.
Nebraska's defense is no longer intimidating but the offense is good enough to cover for it in most games. The higher scoring this contest becomes the more it favors the Huskers. In quarterback Zac Taylor, the depth at running back in Brandon Jackson, Marlon Lucky and Cody Glenn and the production from receivers Maurice Purify and Terrence Nunn, Nebraska, on paper, has a strong opportunity to win and make a statement. Avoid turnovers and it likely will emerge victorious.
BG Intelligence on recruiting, Big 12 action
The holiday over, it was time to hit the streets to meet my sources for the latest recruiting news on the Colorado Buffaloes. First, it was a visit to talk with Adam Munsterteiger at BuffStampede.com and then it was off to see Andrew Friedman of BuffaloSportsNews.net. Those two know the inner details of CU recruiting better than anyone, the one-two punch to go to for the latest on the talent harvest scene.
BGT: Adam, signing day is still over a month away and CU's class is approaching full capacity. Are the Buffs done fishing or are there still players to be brought into the fold?
Munsterteiger: Things have been quiet on the recruiting front lately because there is a three week dead period for recruiting during the holidays. During this stretch, colleges cannot have contact with recruits on or off campus. The dead period ends on January 12th. Following that, CU will be putting the finishing touches on their 2007 recruiting class. They only have room for probably two more additions.
The Buffs also have to make sure their 29 known commitments stay on board. P.T. Gates, Anthony Wright, Josh Smith and Adam Tello were all listed as soft commitments at one point. While it looks like those four are going to stick with their pledge to CU, nothing is official until signing day.
Believe it or not, the staff is heavily recruiting the class of 2008 already. They have handed out scholarship offers to high school juniors, including Ponderosa linebacker Jon Major. Major likely will be the top-ranked in-state prospect next year.
BGT: What about qualifying players to get into school?
Friedman: Coach (Gary) Barnett, in his last years, kind of went with the attitude of 'not who we can get but can we get in (to school) and I only want those players.' So he was not into taking risks.
Coach (Dan) Hawkins is trying to get the better players. That's the reality of the it -- if you want the better players, most of the better players have academic risk.
Right now, some of the better players in the class aren't qualified. Conrad Obi isn't qualified, Anthony Wright is not qualified, Nate Vaimourga is not qualified yet and I think that is one of the reasons why (CU) is oversigning too. It's like they expect a couple of kids not to get in.
The problem is if a kid like Obi can't qualify, if a kid like Wright can't qualify, the class goes from being potentially top 25, top 30 to top 40.
They're taking risks to get better players and that's what they have to do.
BGT: Best bets, in your opinion, Adam, for names that might still land in this year's class?
Bowling in the Big 12...Oklahoma State beat Alabama in the Independence Bowl, 34-31, and as impressive as it sounds to say "we beat the Crimson Tide" the fact is the Cowboys topped a team that isn't your daddy's Alabama. That said, with quarterback Bobby Reid, backs Dantrell Savage and Keith Toston and receiver Adarius Bowman, coach Mike Gundy has the foundation to build on, offensively, especially is Bowman stays away from the next NFL draft. OSU will be a tough draw, difficult to corral, next season. The question remains can they stop anyone? Six times they gave up 30 points or more. They allowed 29 and 27 in two other games. For Gundy to take the Pokes up a notch he needs defensive playmakers, maybe guys like former OSU stars Leslie O'Neal and Jason Gildon.
Sixteenth-ranked Rutgers overwhelmed a young Kansas State-team in the Texas Bowl, 37-10, as quarterback Mike Teel shredded the Wildcats' secondary for 265 yards and two scores and Ray Rice piled up 170 yards and an average of seven yards a carry. Meanwhile, K-State freshman quarterback Josh Freeman threw two interceptions and no ballcarrier ran for more than 20 yards. Coach Ron Prince's team had a surprisingly good season but was no match for the Scarlet Knights. The foundation for better things has been set and if Prince can recruit, he will win. We know he can coach.
N0. 20 California blitzed Texas A & M, 45-10, in the Holiday Bowl, putting Aggies' coach Dennis Franchione back on the hot seat. Running backs Justin Forcett and Marshawn Lynch shredded the defense of the men from College Station for a combined 239 yards and three touchdowns. Didn't Texas A & M used to be known for defense? The Wrecking Crew? Bears' quarterback Nate Longshore added insult to injury with 231 yards passing and another score. Aggies' boosters will not be happy with this and it would not be a total shock to see Franchione step down. He likely won't be fired but the pressure for the athletic director to do so might be surprisingly high.
Court Calls...Eleventh-ranked Texas A & M embarrassed Grambling, 101-27, holding its' opponent to 20 percent shooting from the floor while also forcing 30 turnovers. Josh Carter hit eight 3-pointers and scored 24 points, power broker Joseph Jones added 20 and Acie Law impressed with 13 points and 14 rebounds. Aggie fans are drunk with euphoria over this victory but frankly, A & M isn't that good. They will be a handful in conference play but top-10 material in the country? No. Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament? Maybe, but not guaranteed. That said, send coach Billy Gillespie this way, any day.
Ninth-ranked Kansas beat Detroit easily, 63-43, as the Jayhawks' defense was stifling, holding the Titans to 30 percent shooting. Guard Mario Chalmers was the only offensive power for KU, lighting up Detroit for 22 points. Brandon Rush was next in line with nine. The Jayhawks are good and can be better but it just seems something is missing this season, that they aren't their normal dominant selves.
UNLV beat Bobby Knight and Texas Tech, 74-66, preventing the Red Raiders' coach from passing Dean Smith on the all-time win's list. Jarrius Jackson and Martin Zeno, the top offensive threats on the team, came through by scoring 22 points each in the loss but the Rebels had more balanced distribution scoring in earning the victory.
Texas beat Centenary, 76-66, behind freshman phenom Kevin Durant's 21 points and 17 rebounds. Mr. One and Done may not go first overall in next June's NBA draft but if not, it is only because he doesn't play center like Greg Oden, the expected top pick, of Ohio State does. Durant is, it says here, every bit as good as Oden is at his position, a future all star, a Carmelo Anthony-type scorer.
Oklahoma smacked SMU, 82-42, as junior center Longar Longar scored 20 points. Longar is a weak rebounder, having been in double digits only twice but he knows how to put the ball in the basket. Freshman guard Tony Crocker, remember that name, added 14 points. Crocker is inconsistent as many freshmen are, but he has had some bust out games against lesser competition. The talent for him is there.
Baylor beat North Carolina A & T, 91-71, by shooting a blazing 57 percent from the floor, pounding the Aggies on the boards, 43-19, and by getting 19 points from guard Henry Dugat and 18 from forward Kevin Rogers. The Bears are off to a strong start this season because they get and make good shots. How they stack up against stronger competition remains to be seen.
Buzzer beater...Spoke to Mike DeCourcy of the Sporting News this week about Colorado basketball, the type of coach it should interview, the Big 12 and Bobby Knight. Look for that piece Monday. Will cover Big 12 basketball through the weekend.
BGT: Adam, signing day is still over a month away and CU's class is approaching full capacity. Are the Buffs done fishing or are there still players to be brought into the fold?
Munsterteiger: Things have been quiet on the recruiting front lately because there is a three week dead period for recruiting during the holidays. During this stretch, colleges cannot have contact with recruits on or off campus. The dead period ends on January 12th. Following that, CU will be putting the finishing touches on their 2007 recruiting class. They only have room for probably two more additions.
The Buffs also have to make sure their 29 known commitments stay on board. P.T. Gates, Anthony Wright, Josh Smith and Adam Tello were all listed as soft commitments at one point. While it looks like those four are going to stick with their pledge to CU, nothing is official until signing day.
Believe it or not, the staff is heavily recruiting the class of 2008 already. They have handed out scholarship offers to high school juniors, including Ponderosa linebacker Jon Major. Major likely will be the top-ranked in-state prospect next year.
BGT: What about qualifying players to get into school?
Friedman: Coach (Gary) Barnett, in his last years, kind of went with the attitude of 'not who we can get but can we get in (to school) and I only want those players.' So he was not into taking risks.
Coach (Dan) Hawkins is trying to get the better players. That's the reality of the it -- if you want the better players, most of the better players have academic risk.
Right now, some of the better players in the class aren't qualified. Conrad Obi isn't qualified, Anthony Wright is not qualified, Nate Vaimourga is not qualified yet and I think that is one of the reasons why (CU) is oversigning too. It's like they expect a couple of kids not to get in.
The problem is if a kid like Obi can't qualify, if a kid like Wright can't qualify, the class goes from being potentially top 25, top 30 to top 40.
They're taking risks to get better players and that's what they have to do.
BGT: Best bets, in your opinion, Adam, for names that might still land in this year's class?
Munsterteiger: Of the 47 prospects that the Buffs have hosted on an official visit this recruiting cycle, only three remain uncommitted.
Ryan McCants, a bruising running back from SoCal, visited CU back in mid-September. He’ll most likely end up deciding between
Cameron Jordan is another prospect to keep an eye on. The highly-ranked strongside defensive end visited CU in mid-December and is expected to make a decision sometime in the near future.
Don’t be surprised if the Buffs bring in some visitors in January that are currently committed to other programs. Last year, Hawkins was able to get three prospects (Marquez Herrod, Michael Sipili and Jimmy Smith) to change their pledge in the weeks leading up to signing day.
BGT: Does CU have a surprise blue chip verbal possibly coming its' way or is it going to finalize this class with guys who they hope will contribute down the line?
Friedman: They believe they have a good shot at Jordan and they're still looking at McCants. The other kid is (quarterback) Kirk Cousins, for a grayshirt, out of Holland, Mich. He's not on paper a blue chip. McCants and Jordan are not super-highly regarded recruits either but they are very good.
BGT: You're Dan Hawkins for a moment, Andrew. What positions do you want to fill to wrap up this class?
Friedman: To me, they did not address the defensive tackle position. Hawkins has been harping on his staff this whole recruiting cycle 'go out and get me some defensive lineman, some quality ones.'
It's the hardest position in the nation to recruit because all the guys want to go to the same school -- LSU, Miami -- schools that are known for pumping out guys to the NFL draft. So Colorado has to go for guys that are reaches or 'tweeners.
(Hawkins) wants to get another defensive end, Jordan, and (CU) is trying to get Dominic Glover in for a visit.
Right now, a lot of schools are in the mode of 'it's January, we haven't addressed all our needs, who can we steal (from other schools)?'
Coming into January, the main thing they need to do is hold on to the recruits they have. I do believe they have signed difference makers at almost every position but haven't addressed all their needs the way they wanted or needed.
The only places that they haven't signed difference makers, on paper, are quarterback and linebacker and the no. 1 thing they need in the next class is to get a difference maker at quarterback. Nothing is better for a recruiting class than getting a verbal commit from a top quarterback early as you can in the cycle -- everyone wants to get on the bandwagon after that.
Will say this -- people I know at Arizona State have told me the program is definitely seeing the repercussions of losing (offensive coordinator Mark) Helfrich (to Colorado). They're telling me that 'you're going to get an awesome quarterback on the roster, like a Rudy Carpenter or a Sam Keller (transferred to Nebraska)."
Bowling in the Big 12...Oklahoma State beat Alabama in the Independence Bowl, 34-31, and as impressive as it sounds to say "we beat the Crimson Tide" the fact is the Cowboys topped a team that isn't your daddy's Alabama. That said, with quarterback Bobby Reid, backs Dantrell Savage and Keith Toston and receiver Adarius Bowman, coach Mike Gundy has the foundation to build on, offensively, especially is Bowman stays away from the next NFL draft. OSU will be a tough draw, difficult to corral, next season. The question remains can they stop anyone? Six times they gave up 30 points or more. They allowed 29 and 27 in two other games. For Gundy to take the Pokes up a notch he needs defensive playmakers, maybe guys like former OSU stars Leslie O'Neal and Jason Gildon.
Sixteenth-ranked Rutgers overwhelmed a young Kansas State-team in the Texas Bowl, 37-10, as quarterback Mike Teel shredded the Wildcats' secondary for 265 yards and two scores and Ray Rice piled up 170 yards and an average of seven yards a carry. Meanwhile, K-State freshman quarterback Josh Freeman threw two interceptions and no ballcarrier ran for more than 20 yards. Coach Ron Prince's team had a surprisingly good season but was no match for the Scarlet Knights. The foundation for better things has been set and if Prince can recruit, he will win. We know he can coach.
N0. 20 California blitzed Texas A & M, 45-10, in the Holiday Bowl, putting Aggies' coach Dennis Franchione back on the hot seat. Running backs Justin Forcett and Marshawn Lynch shredded the defense of the men from College Station for a combined 239 yards and three touchdowns. Didn't Texas A & M used to be known for defense? The Wrecking Crew? Bears' quarterback Nate Longshore added insult to injury with 231 yards passing and another score. Aggies' boosters will not be happy with this and it would not be a total shock to see Franchione step down. He likely won't be fired but the pressure for the athletic director to do so might be surprisingly high.
Court Calls...Eleventh-ranked Texas A & M embarrassed Grambling, 101-27, holding its' opponent to 20 percent shooting from the floor while also forcing 30 turnovers. Josh Carter hit eight 3-pointers and scored 24 points, power broker Joseph Jones added 20 and Acie Law impressed with 13 points and 14 rebounds. Aggie fans are drunk with euphoria over this victory but frankly, A & M isn't that good. They will be a handful in conference play but top-10 material in the country? No. Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament? Maybe, but not guaranteed. That said, send coach Billy Gillespie this way, any day.
Ninth-ranked Kansas beat Detroit easily, 63-43, as the Jayhawks' defense was stifling, holding the Titans to 30 percent shooting. Guard Mario Chalmers was the only offensive power for KU, lighting up Detroit for 22 points. Brandon Rush was next in line with nine. The Jayhawks are good and can be better but it just seems something is missing this season, that they aren't their normal dominant selves.
UNLV beat Bobby Knight and Texas Tech, 74-66, preventing the Red Raiders' coach from passing Dean Smith on the all-time win's list. Jarrius Jackson and Martin Zeno, the top offensive threats on the team, came through by scoring 22 points each in the loss but the Rebels had more balanced distribution scoring in earning the victory.
Texas beat Centenary, 76-66, behind freshman phenom Kevin Durant's 21 points and 17 rebounds. Mr. One and Done may not go first overall in next June's NBA draft but if not, it is only because he doesn't play center like Greg Oden, the expected top pick, of Ohio State does. Durant is, it says here, every bit as good as Oden is at his position, a future all star, a Carmelo Anthony-type scorer.
Oklahoma smacked SMU, 82-42, as junior center Longar Longar scored 20 points. Longar is a weak rebounder, having been in double digits only twice but he knows how to put the ball in the basket. Freshman guard Tony Crocker, remember that name, added 14 points. Crocker is inconsistent as many freshmen are, but he has had some bust out games against lesser competition. The talent for him is there.
Baylor beat North Carolina A & T, 91-71, by shooting a blazing 57 percent from the floor, pounding the Aggies on the boards, 43-19, and by getting 19 points from guard Henry Dugat and 18 from forward Kevin Rogers. The Bears are off to a strong start this season because they get and make good shots. How they stack up against stronger competition remains to be seen.
Buzzer beater...Spoke to Mike DeCourcy of the Sporting News this week about Colorado basketball, the type of coach it should interview, the Big 12 and Bobby Knight. Look for that piece Monday. Will cover Big 12 basketball through the weekend.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Hawkins Midwest, Zook West
Dan Hawkins is getting recognition from recruiting experts, media and fans alike for his efforts in a 2-10 season leaving many to wonder how he's doing it.
Ran smack into an article from yesterday that mirrors the situation at Colorado.
From CNNSI.com, the story looks at Illinois coach Ron Zook and his recruiting off yet another terrible campaign.
"Zook can't comment publicly about specific recruits until Signing Day (Feb. 7), but in a recent interview on Illinois' official Web site, he was asked the program's recruiting success in general. 'It's all about people,' said Zook. 'Our players -- they're excited. They're looking forward to the direction our program is going ... When you've got a team like that, [recruits] feel that energy and that excitement, and there's no question in their minds that this program is going to get to where it's supposed to be.''
Stewart Mandel, who wrote the story, then added a quote from another source, that makes me take notice more.
"Speaking about his decision to go with the Illini over his more prestigious suitors, (Martez) Wilson told the Chicago Tribune he felt comfortable with the Illini's coaching staff -- specifically Zook. 'I like this dude,' said Wilson. 'He wasn't an uptight white coach."
You know where I'm going with this, don't you?
No agenda, just a comparison.
I think what those Illini recruits see in Zook, CU recruits see in Hawkins.
Personality and salesmanship matter.
Patton's magic, Miller noticed, Big 12 bowl games
Remember when Gary Barnett used to blame players for losing, conveniently forgetting his role in the result?Well, to his credit, the former football coach reformed himself in his last season.
Basketball coach Ricardo Patton apparently wasn't paying attention to that metamorphosis.
In a B.G. Brooks' story in the Rocky Mountain News on the generous shooting percentage Colorado is allowing opponents (46.5 percent), Patton makes an excuse which could leave many shaking their heads.
"We've got eight guys (freshmen) who, at this time last year, probably didn't have to play defense the way you've got to play it at this level," he said.
Members of the jury, yes, while it is accurate to say that the Buffaloes are indeed young and full of defensive indiscretion, isn't it also true, and more true to say that CU, even when stacked with upperclassmen on its' roster, has never been known as a lock-down group when the other team has the ball in its' possession?
Maybe Patton believes that excuse will wash because of the plethora of freshmen he is coaching but if that is the case then what about past seasons and the lack of top-level defense?
(chirp, chirp)
Critical?
Can't tell a lie so I'd have to say "yes."
But to consistently shift blame away from oneself and on to others, well, not right. Patton is a magician, just not accomplished at it, trying to divert eyes from the trick unfolding. The Buffs are not playing great defense because they have rarely played it. They have won with top offensive players more than anything.
Defense begins with intellectual commitment, then flows to the emotional and ends up manifesting itself through physical effort.
CU has not lacked the necessary athletes under Patton, notice the compliment, to be a hard game's work for opponents.
What has been missing is the direction from a conductor who won't accept less than protecting the basket.
Notes...Colorado recruit Ryan Miller, an offensive lineman from Columbine, has been named a first-team USA Today All-American. Fort Collins' kicker Phil Welch, an excellent candidate to become the next big man on campus as a kicker, replacing legendary Mason Crosby, was a second-team honoree.
More Notes...Three members of the Big 12 hit the field today for bowl games. Oklahoma State plays Alabama in the Independence, Kansas State takes on Rutgers in the Texas Bowl and Texas A & M meets California in the Holiday.
The Cowboys should have a great opportunity to beat the Crimson Tide, which is playing under an interim coach because no one wants to replace the fired Mike Shula. The Wildcats have the ability to beat the Scarlet Knights but it will take maturity and execution from Ron Prince's young team to do it. It says here they just might be capable. The Aggies, meanwhile, are in big trouble in taking on Jeff Tedford's Bears. They are not ideally suited to playing against fastbreak offenses and those with the speed Cal has at its' disposal. Yes, Texas went down but that was a fluke. Lose this game and Texas A & M coach Dennis Franchione is going to be taking a few more steps out on the plank; closer to losing that job.
Last Word...Two interviews have been conducted this week. One more to gather and I'll bring you something fresh for digesting.
Publications are ever evolving and this one is no different. In an effort to make this space better, I am constantly thinking of new product and brand awareness. Thanks for your patience, understanding and visiting this site. The new name of this blog is The Black and Gold Truth, and the address has changed to blackandgoldtruth.blogspot.com.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Coming your way with big minds, big dreams
Hey, back with you after a Merry Christmas in TheTruth's neighborhood. Hope you and your's had an equally blessed holiday.
So, have a question, if I may?
Is it progress in one's life if I finally kicked the egg nog habit? Maybe having to spike it to just make it palatable became too much.
No big dinners, no big gatherings, just an intimate day, just what matters.
Now that I've written my Hallmark card to you, here's the skinny on the week...interviews coming on Colorado football and basketball. Spoke to Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com today, will run alongside Andrew Friedman of BuffaloSportsNews.net on Wednesday and then post their comments in a day.
Also Wednesday, I hope to be able to grab some time with Mike DeCourcy of TheSportingNews.com, a senior writer for that publication.
Munsterteiger and Friedman will share some recruiting insight and DeCourcy will do what he does best, talk college basketball, including an angle on the Colorado coaching search.
DriveBy Notes...was surfing the internet and came across a picture that showed Denver Nuggets' assistant and former Metro State College coach Mike Dunlap talking to Allen Iverson on the bench, which triggered a thought.
What kind of recruiting pitch Dunlap could give a prep or junior college player if he applied and was chosen to be the next head coach at Colorado?
Won at Metro, won big, as in national titles. Worked with Carmelo Anthony and Iverson and even Marcus Camby on a daily basis. Saw other professional players up close and personal. Coached alongside George Karl and has NBA contacts.
Think a recruit might listen closely and with look with big eyes while Dunlap spoke, maybe believe in his "sell?"
Hey, just looking at the clouds, dreaming.
That's where it all starts.
For now, the Black and Gold Breakdown Endorsed List includes Mark Few and Mark Turgeon. Dunlap is also mighty intriguing.
So, have a question, if I may?
Is it progress in one's life if I finally kicked the egg nog habit? Maybe having to spike it to just make it palatable became too much.
No big dinners, no big gatherings, just an intimate day, just what matters.
Now that I've written my Hallmark card to you, here's the skinny on the week...interviews coming on Colorado football and basketball. Spoke to Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com today, will run alongside Andrew Friedman of BuffaloSportsNews.net on Wednesday and then post their comments in a day.
Also Wednesday, I hope to be able to grab some time with Mike DeCourcy of TheSportingNews.com, a senior writer for that publication.
Munsterteiger and Friedman will share some recruiting insight and DeCourcy will do what he does best, talk college basketball, including an angle on the Colorado coaching search.
DriveBy Notes...was surfing the internet and came across a picture that showed Denver Nuggets' assistant and former Metro State College coach Mike Dunlap talking to Allen Iverson on the bench, which triggered a thought.
What kind of recruiting pitch Dunlap could give a prep or junior college player if he applied and was chosen to be the next head coach at Colorado?
Won at Metro, won big, as in national titles. Worked with Carmelo Anthony and Iverson and even Marcus Camby on a daily basis. Saw other professional players up close and personal. Coached alongside George Karl and has NBA contacts.
Think a recruit might listen closely and with look with big eyes while Dunlap spoke, maybe believe in his "sell?"
Hey, just looking at the clouds, dreaming.
That's where it all starts.
For now, the Black and Gold Breakdown Endorsed List includes Mark Few and Mark Turgeon. Dunlap is also mighty intriguing.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Jayhawks dominant, Knight stars, Horns lose
Eleventh-ranked Kansas overwhelmed Boston College, 84-66, behind Mario Chalmers' 22 points from the point guard position. Brandon Rush, overrated but talented, added 15 and forward Julian Wright, another NBA hopeful, finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds.
The Black and Gold Breakdown: The Jayhawks don't seem like their usual intimidating self but they will be the cream of the Big 12 again and capable of winning two or three NCAA tournament games. What they lack right now is chemistry. The talent is there but finding the right mix is the mission.
Texas Tech had a night to celebrate, beating Bucknell, 72-60, as Jarrius Jackson and Martin Zeno scored 18 points each to earn coach Bobby Knight a tie with former North Carolina coach Dean Smith atop the all-time NCAA division-1 wins list with 879.
BGB: As brash and arrogant as Knight is, when it comes to his coaching, he is surprisingly modest. He will defer to players and schools, rarely giving himself credit. The man is a rare basketball mind and has accomplished something that is a grind and difficult to do.
Tennessee outlasted Texas in a pop-a-shot contest, 111-105. The Longhorns lost despite getting stud performances, offensively, from freshman forward Kevin Durant (26 points and 8 rebounds) and D.J. Augustin (20 points, 13 assists).
BGB: Guess only the football team plays defense at UT. Durant continues to be amazing, maybe worthy of being the top pick in next year's NBA draft. Augustin is pint sized but has big game.
Iowa State beat Southeast Missouri State, 87-71, despite letting the Redhawks shoot 56 percent from the floor. Junior guard Mike Taylor led the Cyclones with 18 points and freshman forward Wesley Johnson, remember that name, impressed with 17 points and 13 rebounds.
BGB: The 6-foot-7, 195-pound Johnson is going to be a force in this conference. He scores and rebounds like a upperclassman. He is already a load to handle. In a year or two, if he hangs around that long, look out.
Kansas State defended a solid New Mexico team well, holding the Lobos to 36 percent shooting from the floor in a 72-56 win. Forward Cartier Martin embarrassed himself with but one rebound but did shoot down New Mexico with 23 points. Freshman Bill Walker added 13 points and eight rebounds.
BGB: Bob Huggins might not have the ideal group of talent to win big this season but his coaching is showing. This team will be difficult to play on many nights this season. Martin is better than he has performed and it is up to Huggins to find the proper way to motivate him and get the most out of him. Walker is going to be something before the season is over but if the Wildcats want star quality play from him, they have to convince the NBA-hungry Walker to stay for his sophomore year.
Nebraska beat Houston, 70-57, as center Alexs Maric imposed his will on the Cougars with 21 points and 15 rebounds. Freshman guard Sek Henry added 20 from the perimeter.
BGB: Freshman Ryan Anderson didn't play well but the Huskers still won because Maric is a talent and Henry stepped up.
The Black and Gold Breakdown: The Jayhawks don't seem like their usual intimidating self but they will be the cream of the Big 12 again and capable of winning two or three NCAA tournament games. What they lack right now is chemistry. The talent is there but finding the right mix is the mission.
Texas Tech had a night to celebrate, beating Bucknell, 72-60, as Jarrius Jackson and Martin Zeno scored 18 points each to earn coach Bobby Knight a tie with former North Carolina coach Dean Smith atop the all-time NCAA division-1 wins list with 879.
BGB: As brash and arrogant as Knight is, when it comes to his coaching, he is surprisingly modest. He will defer to players and schools, rarely giving himself credit. The man is a rare basketball mind and has accomplished something that is a grind and difficult to do.
Tennessee outlasted Texas in a pop-a-shot contest, 111-105. The Longhorns lost despite getting stud performances, offensively, from freshman forward Kevin Durant (26 points and 8 rebounds) and D.J. Augustin (20 points, 13 assists).
BGB: Guess only the football team plays defense at UT. Durant continues to be amazing, maybe worthy of being the top pick in next year's NBA draft. Augustin is pint sized but has big game.
Iowa State beat Southeast Missouri State, 87-71, despite letting the Redhawks shoot 56 percent from the floor. Junior guard Mike Taylor led the Cyclones with 18 points and freshman forward Wesley Johnson, remember that name, impressed with 17 points and 13 rebounds.
BGB: The 6-foot-7, 195-pound Johnson is going to be a force in this conference. He scores and rebounds like a upperclassman. He is already a load to handle. In a year or two, if he hangs around that long, look out.
Kansas State defended a solid New Mexico team well, holding the Lobos to 36 percent shooting from the floor in a 72-56 win. Forward Cartier Martin embarrassed himself with but one rebound but did shoot down New Mexico with 23 points. Freshman Bill Walker added 13 points and eight rebounds.
BGB: Bob Huggins might not have the ideal group of talent to win big this season but his coaching is showing. This team will be difficult to play on many nights this season. Martin is better than he has performed and it is up to Huggins to find the proper way to motivate him and get the most out of him. Walker is going to be something before the season is over but if the Wildcats want star quality play from him, they have to convince the NBA-hungry Walker to stay for his sophomore year.
Nebraska beat Houston, 70-57, as center Alexs Maric imposed his will on the Cougars with 21 points and 15 rebounds. Freshman guard Sek Henry added 20 from the perimeter.
BGB: Freshman Ryan Anderson didn't play well but the Huskers still won because Maric is a talent and Henry stepped up.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Aggies roll, Cats & Baylor hot, Huskers flat
Thirteenth-ranked Texas A & M traveled down to Alabama and dominated Auburn, 87-58, getting 21 points from guard Acie Law. Four other Aggies finished in double figures in the game as Texas A & M shot a torrid 57 percent from the floor while holding the Tigers to a sickly effort (19 of 57).
The Black and Gold Breakdown...Remember this -- the boys from College Station are well coached, play defense and compete, which goes a long way towards winning games, even if they have major holes that will be exposed as the Aggies compete for the Big 12 title and subsequently, in the NCAA tournament. They struggle to rebound and aren't offensively dominant enough to be an elite team.
Kansas State's offense was stuck in mud all day, shooting 37 percent from the floor, but the Wildcats were more than good enough to beat USC 68-55 behind 19 points from Bill Walker and David Hoskins. K-State won the game at the foul line, hitting 31 of 41 shots.
BGB...Walker is the real deal and as witnessed in this game, will make others, like Hoskins better. The problem for the Wildcats is that Walker may split for the NBA after this season.
Nebraska went island hopping and got sent home a loser to Hawaii, 81-72, as Matt Lojeski and Ahmet Gueye combined for 33 Warrior points. The Huskers' big asset, huge center Alexs Maric simply wasn't good enough on this night, being shackled for 8 points. Freshman guard Ryan Anderson, however, continues to show high-level potential, scoring 29 points, which included seven 3-pointers. The 6-foot-4 guard from Seattle, Washington looks to be a player Nebraska can build a program around.
BGB...Marics is a solid producer yet can't go in the tank or Nebraska is going to have a difficult time winning. Anderson looks to be a future all-conference pick.
Baylor shot 61 percent from the floor in racing by Prairie View A & M, 103-61, in Waco as senior forward Kevin Rogers scored 20 points to lead the Bears. Guard Henry Dugat added 18 and forward Tim Bush, a LSU transfer, added 14 points and 10 rebounds.
BGB...Baylor has talent and is a team worth watching. They just might have a shot to play in some postseason tournament.
The Black and Gold Breakdown...Remember this -- the boys from College Station are well coached, play defense and compete, which goes a long way towards winning games, even if they have major holes that will be exposed as the Aggies compete for the Big 12 title and subsequently, in the NCAA tournament. They struggle to rebound and aren't offensively dominant enough to be an elite team.
Kansas State's offense was stuck in mud all day, shooting 37 percent from the floor, but the Wildcats were more than good enough to beat USC 68-55 behind 19 points from Bill Walker and David Hoskins. K-State won the game at the foul line, hitting 31 of 41 shots.
BGB...Walker is the real deal and as witnessed in this game, will make others, like Hoskins better. The problem for the Wildcats is that Walker may split for the NBA after this season.
Nebraska went island hopping and got sent home a loser to Hawaii, 81-72, as Matt Lojeski and Ahmet Gueye combined for 33 Warrior points. The Huskers' big asset, huge center Alexs Maric simply wasn't good enough on this night, being shackled for 8 points. Freshman guard Ryan Anderson, however, continues to show high-level potential, scoring 29 points, which included seven 3-pointers. The 6-foot-4 guard from Seattle, Washington looks to be a player Nebraska can build a program around.
BGB...Marics is a solid producer yet can't go in the tank or Nebraska is going to have a difficult time winning. Anderson looks to be a future all-conference pick.
Baylor shot 61 percent from the floor in racing by Prairie View A & M, 103-61, in Waco as senior forward Kevin Rogers scored 20 points to lead the Bears. Guard Henry Dugat added 18 and forward Tim Bush, a LSU transfer, added 14 points and 10 rebounds.
BGB...Baylor has talent and is a team worth watching. They just might have a shot to play in some postseason tournament.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Cowboys get Big 12 some attention, Sooners win
In a big game for the Big 12, no. 15 Oklahoma State grabbed some national respect by beating seventh-ranked Pittsburgh, 95-89, in double overtime.
Mario Boggan, the low post load for the Cowboys, ripped up the Panthers with a career-high 30 points and guard JamesOn Curry piled up 21 more.
The Panthers, as expected, got a big game from 7-foot center Aaron Gray, a future first-round pick, as the tower of power worked his way to 24 points and 10 rebounds.
TheTruth...The Cowboys are dangerous, very capable of knocking out a giant as they did to Pitt. Boggan and Curry, if they are in rhythm, can carry OSU a long ways. In the end, the Pokes are limited by size, the need for one more impact player and a little more experience.
In the other Big-12 game played, Jeff Capel coached his Oklahoma Sooners past Tulsa 58-48 by holding the Golden Hurricane to 28 percent shooting from the floor. Not impressed? It looks beautiful to any coach who truly believes defense wins games.
TheTruth...Losing Kelvin Sampson to Indiana hurts in the immediate but in time Capel is going to prove an excellent coach. OU will be a tough matchup this season, even if flying under the radar.
Mario Boggan, the low post load for the Cowboys, ripped up the Panthers with a career-high 30 points and guard JamesOn Curry piled up 21 more.
The Panthers, as expected, got a big game from 7-foot center Aaron Gray, a future first-round pick, as the tower of power worked his way to 24 points and 10 rebounds.
TheTruth...The Cowboys are dangerous, very capable of knocking out a giant as they did to Pitt. Boggan and Curry, if they are in rhythm, can carry OSU a long ways. In the end, the Pokes are limited by size, the need for one more impact player and a little more experience.
In the other Big-12 game played, Jeff Capel coached his Oklahoma Sooners past Tulsa 58-48 by holding the Golden Hurricane to 28 percent shooting from the floor. Not impressed? It looks beautiful to any coach who truly believes defense wins games.
TheTruth...Losing Kelvin Sampson to Indiana hurts in the immediate but in time Capel is going to prove an excellent coach. OU will be a tough matchup this season, even if flying under the radar.
Buffs recruiting a rollercoaster
News on the recruiting forefront as Colorado has added another linebacker to its' class, securing a verbal form Florida linebacker Josh Hartigan, a 6-foot-2, 215-pounder from Fort Lauderdale, according to a report by Patrick Ridgell in the Times-Call.
The Buffs did lose junior college center Jess Beets because the school, which is becoming increasingly familiar, did not accept some of his academic credits. Beets is now off to Kentucky.
CU did grab another defensive lineman when Chris Perri of Laney College in California decided to wear the Black and Gold.
TheBreakdown...Getting Hartigan adds depth to the linebackers and again this recruiting season, establishes CU in the state of Florida as a presence, something coach Dan Hawkins and his staff have down in many parts of the country. Who knows if any of this players can make an impact but Hawkins' mission to recruit nationally, not just regionally, is forward thinking and impressive. Losing Beets...well typical CU. Getting Perri for the defensive line was important, if he can play and if, um, he can get into school.
The Buffs did lose junior college center Jess Beets because the school, which is becoming increasingly familiar, did not accept some of his academic credits. Beets is now off to Kentucky.
CU did grab another defensive lineman when Chris Perri of Laney College in California decided to wear the Black and Gold.
TheBreakdown...Getting Hartigan adds depth to the linebackers and again this recruiting season, establishes CU in the state of Florida as a presence, something coach Dan Hawkins and his staff have down in many parts of the country. Who knows if any of this players can make an impact but Hawkins' mission to recruit nationally, not just regionally, is forward thinking and impressive. Losing Beets...well typical CU. Getting Perri for the defensive line was important, if he can play and if, um, he can get into school.
Report says Peterson leaving OU
Stewart Mandel of CNNSI.com took a shot at picking which Big 12 underclassmen would check out early for the NFL draft in a column posted on Yahoo Sports.
Maybe he forgot someone, maybe there is no way he could know each player's mind but his one name from the conference was a big one -- Oklahoma running back standard Adrian Peterson.
Mandel said Peterson has no choice but to leave Norman for a paycheck.
"Another lock to come out. Consecutive injury-plagued seasons have caused AD's stock to drop a bit, but that will change as soon as NFL teams see him in the flesh."
Remember him?
Wake Forest coach Jim Grobe was a name mentioned as a possible candidate to replace Gary Barnett last year. He stayed in Winston-Salem and led Wake Forest to a dream season, the best in the 105-year history of the school, earning him Associated Press Coach of the Year.
The Demon Deacons went 11-2, won the ACC title and a berth in the Orange Bowl.
Rutgers' coach Greg Schiano finished second and the Sooners' Bob Stoops was third.
Maybe he forgot someone, maybe there is no way he could know each player's mind but his one name from the conference was a big one -- Oklahoma running back standard Adrian Peterson.
Mandel said Peterson has no choice but to leave Norman for a paycheck.
"Another lock to come out. Consecutive injury-plagued seasons have caused AD's stock to drop a bit, but that will change as soon as NFL teams see him in the flesh."
Remember him?
Wake Forest coach Jim Grobe was a name mentioned as a possible candidate to replace Gary Barnett last year. He stayed in Winston-Salem and led Wake Forest to a dream season, the best in the 105-year history of the school, earning him Associated Press Coach of the Year.
The Demon Deacons went 11-2, won the ACC title and a berth in the Orange Bowl.
Rutgers' coach Greg Schiano finished second and the Sooners' Bob Stoops was third.
Mega-freshman leads young Horns, catch him now
Kevin Durant is as bright a star as you'll find amongst freshman.
Enjoy him now.
Next year, he'll be playing in "The League."
The mega-recruit has not disappointed since arriving in Austin, and looks to be a future All Star, after being, at the very least, a freshman All American.
He showed off against Arkansas, whom Texas played for the first time since 1991, with 28 points and 13 rebounds. The 6-foot-9 forward is now averaging 21.2 points, 9.4 rebounds and 2.3 blocked shots per game.
The NBA's new rule barring high schoolers from entering the draft benefitted the Longhorns greatly, giving them one season of Durant, to have him play for the school, make money off him and recruit off him playing in a UT jersey.
Hope the school doesn't forget to send the Christmas card to NBA commissioner David Stern.
D.J. Augustin, another freshman, all 5-foot-10 of him, continues his development and shows his size is not a detriment to his powerful impact. He added 16 points in the victory and is now averaging 21.7 points a game in his last three contests.
Sophomore A.J. Abrams, another mighty mite at 5-foot-10, finished with 14 and now averages 16.6 a game.
The Longhorns might be young, might miss all the experience and leadership they had a season ago but they are more talented now. They will be a dangerous Big-12 team and an interesting NCAA tournament matchup for someone.
See it for yourself when Colorado meets UT on Jan. 6.
Coach Ricardo Patton is thinking, scheming of ways to stop Durant and Company from laying the wood to his team.
In other conference action, Nebraska, with new coach Doc Sadler, beat Wyoming, 73-58, behind 22 points and nine rebounds from 6-foot-11, 270-pound big man Alexs Maric (19.8 points and 7.6 rebounds a game).
Who's CU going to check him with?
The Huskers improve to 7-2 with the victory.
Enjoy him now.
Next year, he'll be playing in "The League."
The mega-recruit has not disappointed since arriving in Austin, and looks to be a future All Star, after being, at the very least, a freshman All American.
He showed off against Arkansas, whom Texas played for the first time since 1991, with 28 points and 13 rebounds. The 6-foot-9 forward is now averaging 21.2 points, 9.4 rebounds and 2.3 blocked shots per game.
The NBA's new rule barring high schoolers from entering the draft benefitted the Longhorns greatly, giving them one season of Durant, to have him play for the school, make money off him and recruit off him playing in a UT jersey.
Hope the school doesn't forget to send the Christmas card to NBA commissioner David Stern.
D.J. Augustin, another freshman, all 5-foot-10 of him, continues his development and shows his size is not a detriment to his powerful impact. He added 16 points in the victory and is now averaging 21.7 points a game in his last three contests.
Sophomore A.J. Abrams, another mighty mite at 5-foot-10, finished with 14 and now averages 16.6 a game.
The Longhorns might be young, might miss all the experience and leadership they had a season ago but they are more talented now. They will be a dangerous Big-12 team and an interesting NCAA tournament matchup for someone.
See it for yourself when Colorado meets UT on Jan. 6.
Coach Ricardo Patton is thinking, scheming of ways to stop Durant and Company from laying the wood to his team.
In other conference action, Nebraska, with new coach Doc Sadler, beat Wyoming, 73-58, behind 22 points and nine rebounds from 6-foot-11, 270-pound big man Alexs Maric (19.8 points and 7.6 rebounds a game).
Who's CU going to check him with?
The Huskers improve to 7-2 with the victory.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Big 12 fly-over catches risers and developers
An up-and-down night for the Big 12 but no surprises.
Twelveth-ranked Kansas bounces Winston-Salem 94-43 by shooting 59 percent from the floor while holding the opposition to 34 percent. Five Jayhawks finish in double figures with Julian Wright and Brandon Rush scoring 15 each. KU hasn't really found its' chemistry yet and it isn't, it says here, a Final 4 team as many expect them to be, but by the end of the regular season it will be the usual landlord of the conference.
Kansas State is a team that will take some losses in Big 12 play but will be dangerous by season's end. The Wildcats easily handled Maryland-Eastern Shore by forcing 32 turnovers. Cartier Martin, who flies under the radar as a talent, led the way with 23 points and eight rebounds. Teammate David Hoskins is a player but highly inconsistent but was good enough Tuesday with 16 points, six boards and four assists.
Iowa State had a tough final semester exam and failed, losing to third-ranked Ohio State, 75-56. The Cyclones struggled shooting, scoring at a 40 percent clip. Only guard Mike Taylor, ISU's leading scorer, who finished with 24 points, was effective. This will not be a typical ISU team. It doesn't lack talent, but will be a middle-of-the-pack team this season.
Missouri falls at home to Illinois, 73-70, its' seventh-straight loss to the Illini. Stefhon Hannah led the Tigers with 23 points. New coach Mike Anderson has started to right the ship for Mizzou after the Quin Snyder-failed experiment and the Tigers will pull some surprises this season but it will be a couple more players and another season or two before the school can shake off the losing and sludge from the previous regime.
Twelveth-ranked Kansas bounces Winston-Salem 94-43 by shooting 59 percent from the floor while holding the opposition to 34 percent. Five Jayhawks finish in double figures with Julian Wright and Brandon Rush scoring 15 each. KU hasn't really found its' chemistry yet and it isn't, it says here, a Final 4 team as many expect them to be, but by the end of the regular season it will be the usual landlord of the conference.
Kansas State is a team that will take some losses in Big 12 play but will be dangerous by season's end. The Wildcats easily handled Maryland-Eastern Shore by forcing 32 turnovers. Cartier Martin, who flies under the radar as a talent, led the way with 23 points and eight rebounds. Teammate David Hoskins is a player but highly inconsistent but was good enough Tuesday with 16 points, six boards and four assists.
Iowa State had a tough final semester exam and failed, losing to third-ranked Ohio State, 75-56. The Cyclones struggled shooting, scoring at a 40 percent clip. Only guard Mike Taylor, ISU's leading scorer, who finished with 24 points, was effective. This will not be a typical ISU team. It doesn't lack talent, but will be a middle-of-the-pack team this season.
Missouri falls at home to Illinois, 73-70, its' seventh-straight loss to the Illini. Stefhon Hannah led the Tigers with 23 points. New coach Mike Anderson has started to right the ship for Mizzou after the Quin Snyder-failed experiment and the Tigers will pull some surprises this season but it will be a couple more players and another season or two before the school can shake off the losing and sludge from the previous regime.
Vols kick dust in face of Cowboys
Oklahoma State's record looks impressive but that doesn't always tell the whole story.
The Cowboys are good, will be good; they just aren't and won't be an upper-echelon group in the Big 12.
No one will complain in Stillwater this season, well outwardly, but neither will they be getting overly excited. They've seen this act before -- solid but not dangerous enough to beat the best.
OSU's perfect run to open Sean Sutton's first full season as coach came to an end Monday, losing to Tennessee, 79-77 in Nashville.
How they absorbed defeat is likely more painful this morning than losing when you consider the Pokes outshot the Volunteers (55 to 42 percent) from the floor and the foul line (25 for 32 for the Cowboys to 19 for 32 for UT), and held its' own on the boards (35-33 Tennessee).
Where OSU proved itself unworthy was holding on to what must have been a greased pig, as it committed 22 turnovers, which led to 31 Vols' points. UT controlled its' sloppiness, limiting its' turnovers to a very reasonable 12.
Mario Boggan remains the main man for the Pokes, capable of getting his -- usually about 20 a game -- from the low post. Guard JamesOn Curry is a capable two-guard and sophomore Terrell Harris is one to watch on the wing, as well.
OSU will be good but not in the same league as Kansas or Texas.
The NCAA's are likely, as is an early exit.
The Cowboys are good, will be good; they just aren't and won't be an upper-echelon group in the Big 12.
No one will complain in Stillwater this season, well outwardly, but neither will they be getting overly excited. They've seen this act before -- solid but not dangerous enough to beat the best.
OSU's perfect run to open Sean Sutton's first full season as coach came to an end Monday, losing to Tennessee, 79-77 in Nashville.
How they absorbed defeat is likely more painful this morning than losing when you consider the Pokes outshot the Volunteers (55 to 42 percent) from the floor and the foul line (25 for 32 for the Cowboys to 19 for 32 for UT), and held its' own on the boards (35-33 Tennessee).
Where OSU proved itself unworthy was holding on to what must have been a greased pig, as it committed 22 turnovers, which led to 31 Vols' points. UT controlled its' sloppiness, limiting its' turnovers to a very reasonable 12.
Mario Boggan remains the main man for the Pokes, capable of getting his -- usually about 20 a game -- from the low post. Guard JamesOn Curry is a capable two-guard and sophomore Terrell Harris is one to watch on the wing, as well.
OSU will be good but not in the same league as Kansas or Texas.
The NCAA's are likely, as is an early exit.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Black and Gold Intelligence files on Patton, Bohn
The feelings are raw over the Colorado men's basketball program with the blame shifting back and forth between coach Ricardo Patton and athletic director Mike Bohn. So is this a case of there being two sides to every story or is it a matter of personal perception?
I hit the field to find out, going to those who follow the program on a daily basis to hear their observations and insight. We enlisted the starting five of B.G. Brooks of the Rocky Mountain News, Kyle Ringo of the Daily Camera, Patrick Ridgell of the Daily Times-Call, Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com and Mark Collins of BuffSportsNews.net to solve this case.
Listed below is what I learned in this week's Black and Gold Intelligence report.
BGB: Is Bohn in the same position regarding his basketball program that his football coach, Dan Hawkins, was in this fall, which is taking the heat for merely walking into an unfavorable situation or has Bohn put himself in this spot with Patton because he didn't make a coaching change after last season?
Brooks: Bohn knew Patton has only one year left on his contract and by not acting last spring, he really put himself in a state of flux with it. I would say Patton more or less beat him to the punch (with his resignation) because I don't think there is any way there was going to be a contract extension given. That was my impression last spring and I wrote that last spring.
My opinion was the decision had already been made. If there was going to be a contract extension given, it would have been given before the season started.
Ringo: I think there are three factors at play here. It was a bad situation when (Bohn) arrived. He hasn't done anything about it yet so it looks like he's only making it worse. But I think what people fail to consider is what might be driving his decision to not act -- Bohn was pretty decisive in firing Gary Barnett. So that tells me there are other factors at play here that might be limiting his options. Some of those are obvious to everyone. Others are not.
The bottom line is he didn't have the money or will to fire Patton after last season. And that doesn't even take into consideration that the program was losing 10 players and needed to make sure to get Patton's recruits enrolled and into the program.
A big mistake Bohn made was in announcing he was going to put together a 10-point plan. The best way to lose credibility is to tell people you're going to do something and then not do it. Make no mistake, there will be a 10-point plan announced probably later this season, but it shouldn't have taken this long.
Ridgell: The biggest factor here is the finances of the situation. (Bohn) may have been able to act earlier, maybe, after last season replacing the coach but where they would get the money to pay an interim coach is something I don't know.
Muntsterteiger: Mike Bohn's hands are tied in this situation. If the athletic department was not in financial ruins when he took over, there is little question the Buffs would have bought out the final year of Patton's contract after last season and begun the search for a new coach a year earlier. As it was, Bohn couldn't afford the $ 750,000 it would have cost to buy Patton out.
Collins: If the athletic department had a couple million dollars laying around last March, the end of last season, (Bohn) would have made a change at that point but because the athletic department was pretty strapped for cash, he had to let Ricardo coach out the end of his contract.
BGB: O.K., let's run a reverse if we can and ask what is good about Colorado basketball right now? What stands out? Is there improvement being made? Mr. 20 Questions will also ask is this -- is this team capable of improvement and will it likely develop this season or is the engine stalled out for good in 2006-07?
Brooks: The thing I think is good, that shows a tremendous upside about Colorado basketball, is the last recruiting class that Patton brought in. There are some guys who can play. Xavier Silas is going to be a great player. I think Jeremy Williams is going to be a great player.
If you're going to have that young a team in Big-12 play, then this is probably the season to do it with half of the coaches changing (first season in charge) and we've seen a lot of times, coaching changes, that the transition year, well, look no further than Colorado football, for how shaky it can be in that transition year.
(The basketball team) remind me, somewhat, of the football team as far as the confidence factor is concerned. They're not playing with much confidence now. They are sort of feeling their way along.
Ringo: There are a lot of positives for CU basketball. There is finally an administration in place that wants to legitimately compete for championships. Ceal Barry and Tom McGrath are involved in finding the next coach. There is a lot of young talent in the program and those players have a desire to learn, improve and win. That should be exciting, but people just have to be patient enough to get through these final few months.
I haven't seen a lot of improvement in the early going this season. I think the players can and will get better as the season goes on if they take the right approach.
Ridgell: The youth and potential are there although I haven't seen a lot of improvement yet and I don't think it can get much worse. There's a lot of development that can still be done this season.
Xavier Silas has become a much more productive scorer and that's something the team will need. It seems like Xavier has been given the longest leash, he's been given the most freedom to do what he wants on the floor, although I don't know why that is.
If the new coach can come in here and keep (the roster) here and develop them, I think they got a shot to be a pretty good team in a couple of years.
Munsterteiger: It's hard to find much improvement. Their defense has struggled of late. The Buffs have a couple of winnable home games coming up on the schedule but it could get real ugly when they get into Big 12 play. Given the enviornment and circumstances, I wouldn't expect much improvement in terms of team play. But at least the freshman will get some good game experience.
Collins: Despite their record, despite their early-season struggles, I really like the freshman class they have. From top to bottom, compared to any other class that Ricardo has brought in, they have guys who understand fundamental basketball -- they are not just athletes, they're basketball players.
I think the future looks good as long as they make the right hire.
As for improvement, I think it's going to get more difficult before it gets better. I think CU fans need to understand the bigger picture. In the long run, Mike Bohn and his search committee really have an opportunity to make a really good hire.
Certainly (the fans) have a right to complain and not be happy with the product on the floor but maybe they can really support the student-athlete. I think it really means something to the players, I really do.
I hit the field to find out, going to those who follow the program on a daily basis to hear their observations and insight. We enlisted the starting five of B.G. Brooks of the Rocky Mountain News, Kyle Ringo of the Daily Camera, Patrick Ridgell of the Daily Times-Call, Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com and Mark Collins of BuffSportsNews.net to solve this case.
Listed below is what I learned in this week's Black and Gold Intelligence report.
BGB: Is Bohn in the same position regarding his basketball program that his football coach, Dan Hawkins, was in this fall, which is taking the heat for merely walking into an unfavorable situation or has Bohn put himself in this spot with Patton because he didn't make a coaching change after last season?
Brooks: Bohn knew Patton has only one year left on his contract and by not acting last spring, he really put himself in a state of flux with it. I would say Patton more or less beat him to the punch (with his resignation) because I don't think there is any way there was going to be a contract extension given. That was my impression last spring and I wrote that last spring.
My opinion was the decision had already been made. If there was going to be a contract extension given, it would have been given before the season started.
Ringo: I think there are three factors at play here. It was a bad situation when (Bohn) arrived. He hasn't done anything about it yet so it looks like he's only making it worse. But I think what people fail to consider is what might be driving his decision to not act -- Bohn was pretty decisive in firing Gary Barnett. So that tells me there are other factors at play here that might be limiting his options. Some of those are obvious to everyone. Others are not.
The bottom line is he didn't have the money or will to fire Patton after last season. And that doesn't even take into consideration that the program was losing 10 players and needed to make sure to get Patton's recruits enrolled and into the program.
A big mistake Bohn made was in announcing he was going to put together a 10-point plan. The best way to lose credibility is to tell people you're going to do something and then not do it. Make no mistake, there will be a 10-point plan announced probably later this season, but it shouldn't have taken this long.
Ridgell: The biggest factor here is the finances of the situation. (Bohn) may have been able to act earlier, maybe, after last season replacing the coach but where they would get the money to pay an interim coach is something I don't know.
Muntsterteiger: Mike Bohn's hands are tied in this situation. If the athletic department was not in financial ruins when he took over, there is little question the Buffs would have bought out the final year of Patton's contract after last season and begun the search for a new coach a year earlier. As it was, Bohn couldn't afford the $ 750,000 it would have cost to buy Patton out.
Collins: If the athletic department had a couple million dollars laying around last March, the end of last season, (Bohn) would have made a change at that point but because the athletic department was pretty strapped for cash, he had to let Ricardo coach out the end of his contract.
BGB: O.K., let's run a reverse if we can and ask what is good about Colorado basketball right now? What stands out? Is there improvement being made? Mr. 20 Questions will also ask is this -- is this team capable of improvement and will it likely develop this season or is the engine stalled out for good in 2006-07?
Brooks: The thing I think is good, that shows a tremendous upside about Colorado basketball, is the last recruiting class that Patton brought in. There are some guys who can play. Xavier Silas is going to be a great player. I think Jeremy Williams is going to be a great player.
If you're going to have that young a team in Big-12 play, then this is probably the season to do it with half of the coaches changing (first season in charge) and we've seen a lot of times, coaching changes, that the transition year, well, look no further than Colorado football, for how shaky it can be in that transition year.
(The basketball team) remind me, somewhat, of the football team as far as the confidence factor is concerned. They're not playing with much confidence now. They are sort of feeling their way along.
Ringo: There are a lot of positives for CU basketball. There is finally an administration in place that wants to legitimately compete for championships. Ceal Barry and Tom McGrath are involved in finding the next coach. There is a lot of young talent in the program and those players have a desire to learn, improve and win. That should be exciting, but people just have to be patient enough to get through these final few months.
I haven't seen a lot of improvement in the early going this season. I think the players can and will get better as the season goes on if they take the right approach.
Ridgell: The youth and potential are there although I haven't seen a lot of improvement yet and I don't think it can get much worse. There's a lot of development that can still be done this season.
Xavier Silas has become a much more productive scorer and that's something the team will need. It seems like Xavier has been given the longest leash, he's been given the most freedom to do what he wants on the floor, although I don't know why that is.
If the new coach can come in here and keep (the roster) here and develop them, I think they got a shot to be a pretty good team in a couple of years.
Munsterteiger: It's hard to find much improvement. Their defense has struggled of late. The Buffs have a couple of winnable home games coming up on the schedule but it could get real ugly when they get into Big 12 play. Given the enviornment and circumstances, I wouldn't expect much improvement in terms of team play. But at least the freshman will get some good game experience.
Collins: Despite their record, despite their early-season struggles, I really like the freshman class they have. From top to bottom, compared to any other class that Ricardo has brought in, they have guys who understand fundamental basketball -- they are not just athletes, they're basketball players.
I think the future looks good as long as they make the right hire.
As for improvement, I think it's going to get more difficult before it gets better. I think CU fans need to understand the bigger picture. In the long run, Mike Bohn and his search committee really have an opportunity to make a really good hire.
Certainly (the fans) have a right to complain and not be happy with the product on the floor but maybe they can really support the student-athlete. I think it really means something to the players, I really do.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Monday morning meeting of the minds coming
Out of town this weekend but back in the saddle.
Come Monday, this space will bring you the latest Black and Gold Intelligence report, where we tap into the minds that know Colorado athletics best, to gather the information we need on hot issues.
This week we talk about the two parties -- Patton's and Bohn's -- and their connection to the current difficulties in the school's basketball program.
The information has been gathered, put into report form and is waiting for that push of a button to publish for your reading.
There were some provocative comments made, maybe answering the question posed above, or maybe adding more intrigue to it.
Also discussed was what is good about Buffs' basketball.
Come Monday, this space will bring you the latest Black and Gold Intelligence report, where we tap into the minds that know Colorado athletics best, to gather the information we need on hot issues.
This week we talk about the two parties -- Patton's and Bohn's -- and their connection to the current difficulties in the school's basketball program.
The information has been gathered, put into report form and is waiting for that push of a button to publish for your reading.
There were some provocative comments made, maybe answering the question posed above, or maybe adding more intrigue to it.
Also discussed was what is good about Buffs' basketball.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Big 12 not waiting for CU basketball to catch up
Kansas backs the truck up to the McDonalds' All-American game every season. Texas gets big-time stars like Kevin Durant.
The Buffs?
Chirp, chirp.
Hear that?
O.K., so CU does get Chauncey Billups, David Harrison, Richard Roby and some other fine talent, but in the end, aren't the Buffs losing the arms race?
Now that Not-So-Slim Shady is running Cincinnati Midwest, aka Kansas State, the talent pipeline is flowing to yet another Big 12 school.
And, oh, that guy can coach a little, too, or so the resume says.
Next season, superstar big man Michael Beasley hits Manhattan and in a matter of moments one Bill Walker becomes eligible to play for the Wildcats.
Who?
Listen to this, Colorado:
" One NBA general manager said that Walker would be one of the top five athletes in the NBA right now," writes Jeff Goodman in his FoxSports.com blog.
Huggins himself, not known for loving his players publicly, also showers Walker with some praise.
"The reality is that if you could still draft high school guys, he’d be drafted,” Huggins said. “So much of what happens in the NBA Draft is about upside. Tell me who has more upside than Bill?
"He’s right up there with anyone I’ve had,” Huggins said.
K-State, even in this season, was once a winnable couple of games. Now, with Huggy Bear in town, CU just got kicked down another flight of stairs in the conference standings.
Goodman sees star stamped all over Walker, too.
"Even though Walker will only play 50 or so games in his career for Huggins, he’ll end up leaving as one of his favorite players. Walker is a perfect Huggins-type player. He’s ultra-athletic, he’s tough, fearless and plays hard all the time."
The Buffs?
Chirp, chirp.
Hear that?
O.K., so CU does get Chauncey Billups, David Harrison, Richard Roby and some other fine talent, but in the end, aren't the Buffs losing the arms race?
Now that Not-So-Slim Shady is running Cincinnati Midwest, aka Kansas State, the talent pipeline is flowing to yet another Big 12 school.
And, oh, that guy can coach a little, too, or so the resume says.
Next season, superstar big man Michael Beasley hits Manhattan and in a matter of moments one Bill Walker becomes eligible to play for the Wildcats.
Who?
Listen to this, Colorado:
" One NBA general manager said that Walker would be one of the top five athletes in the NBA right now," writes Jeff Goodman in his FoxSports.com blog.
Huggins himself, not known for loving his players publicly, also showers Walker with some praise.
"The reality is that if you could still draft high school guys, he’d be drafted,” Huggins said. “So much of what happens in the NBA Draft is about upside. Tell me who has more upside than Bill?
"He’s right up there with anyone I’ve had,” Huggins said.
K-State, even in this season, was once a winnable couple of games. Now, with Huggy Bear in town, CU just got kicked down another flight of stairs in the conference standings.
Goodman sees star stamped all over Walker, too.
"Even though Walker will only play 50 or so games in his career for Huggins, he’ll end up leaving as one of his favorite players. Walker is a perfect Huggins-type player. He’s ultra-athletic, he’s tough, fearless and plays hard all the time."
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Local Buff recruits highlighted
Columbine's mega-recruit Ryan Miller is special as a football player as we all know. After all, he's a high-school All American and the best Colorado has to offer in the prep ranks.
But since when would an offensive lineman, as Miller is, choose a running back as his favorite player, as the jumbo-sized Rebel did in a Scott Stocker article in the Rocky Mountain News.
Miller's selection? New Orleans' Saints rookie Reggie Bush.
Other Buff recruits picked interesting names, too.
Fellow offensive linemen Ethan Adkins (Douglas County) chose Denver Broncos' center Tom Nalen, the epitome of undersized, overachieving and technician. One only hopes Adkins develops into a similar type of trenchman.
Shawn Daniels of Mullen picked, well, no one, which is also very telling. He's not easily impressed, he doesn't get into all the flash or maybe he just doesn't own a television.
All-purpose star Anthony Perkins of Northglenn loves, as many do, San Diego running back LaDainian Tomlinson. Perkins himself has some verstatility to his game which makes me wonder why he won't be tried on offense at CU first. If, however, he can get his hands on the ball as a defensive back, where reportedly he will be moved, special things could happen. Defensive playmakers are a premium need on all good teams.
Other things that stood out from Stocker's list of local talent was who isn't a Buff verbal.
Fort Collins kicker Phil Welch seems like a logical choice to take his game to Boulder where fellow "foot men" excel, although primarily punters. Mason Crosby leaves, so why not step into the fold and compete for playing time next season, just a short distance from his family's home. There is no doubt Welch has the big-league leg. This could be an underrated signing if coach Dan Hawkins can reel him in.
The other one is disappointing...Mullen's Devin Aguilar. He never publicly, that I know of, showed interest in CU this season. He has size, big playmaking ability and production. That he plays a position that the Buffs have a major need in also makes Aguilar highly attractive. His basketball prowess might have turned him off of Boulder and on to Washington, where he is verballed.
That CU will also miss out on Drew Davis, another talented wide receiver, is puzzling. That said, the Buffs are recruiting well and the hope is Hawkins can retain his current verbals and frost this class with another key signee or two.
Court News...B.G. Brooks story on Richard Roby in Wednesday's Rocky Mountain News was a standout piece, detailing the feelings the Buffs' star player is dealing with, his court weaknesses and coach Ricardo Patton's breakdown on him. What is also telling is Roby being surprised he hasn't yet heard of Patton's dismay and constructive criticism of the guard's lack of midrange offense. The question that comes to mind is this -- is there a strong line of communication, positive communication and teaching between coaches and players, a running concern from outside the program? Maybe so but comments like these do put doubt in the air.
But since when would an offensive lineman, as Miller is, choose a running back as his favorite player, as the jumbo-sized Rebel did in a Scott Stocker article in the Rocky Mountain News.
Miller's selection? New Orleans' Saints rookie Reggie Bush.
Other Buff recruits picked interesting names, too.
Fellow offensive linemen Ethan Adkins (Douglas County) chose Denver Broncos' center Tom Nalen, the epitome of undersized, overachieving and technician. One only hopes Adkins develops into a similar type of trenchman.
Shawn Daniels of Mullen picked, well, no one, which is also very telling. He's not easily impressed, he doesn't get into all the flash or maybe he just doesn't own a television.
All-purpose star Anthony Perkins of Northglenn loves, as many do, San Diego running back LaDainian Tomlinson. Perkins himself has some verstatility to his game which makes me wonder why he won't be tried on offense at CU first. If, however, he can get his hands on the ball as a defensive back, where reportedly he will be moved, special things could happen. Defensive playmakers are a premium need on all good teams.
Other things that stood out from Stocker's list of local talent was who isn't a Buff verbal.
Fort Collins kicker Phil Welch seems like a logical choice to take his game to Boulder where fellow "foot men" excel, although primarily punters. Mason Crosby leaves, so why not step into the fold and compete for playing time next season, just a short distance from his family's home. There is no doubt Welch has the big-league leg. This could be an underrated signing if coach Dan Hawkins can reel him in.
The other one is disappointing...Mullen's Devin Aguilar. He never publicly, that I know of, showed interest in CU this season. He has size, big playmaking ability and production. That he plays a position that the Buffs have a major need in also makes Aguilar highly attractive. His basketball prowess might have turned him off of Boulder and on to Washington, where he is verballed.
That CU will also miss out on Drew Davis, another talented wide receiver, is puzzling. That said, the Buffs are recruiting well and the hope is Hawkins can retain his current verbals and frost this class with another key signee or two.
Court News...B.G. Brooks story on Richard Roby in Wednesday's Rocky Mountain News was a standout piece, detailing the feelings the Buffs' star player is dealing with, his court weaknesses and coach Ricardo Patton's breakdown on him. What is also telling is Roby being surprised he hasn't yet heard of Patton's dismay and constructive criticism of the guard's lack of midrange offense. The question that comes to mind is this -- is there a strong line of communication, positive communication and teaching between coaches and players, a running concern from outside the program? Maybe so but comments like these do put doubt in the air.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Black and Gold Breakdown winners
The polls are now closed.The results are in and they are listed below. With all due respect to offensive lineman, who are critical to all success moving the ball and jamming it into the end zone, there is no way this publication can evaluate them without access to film.
The First-Annual Black and Gold Postseason Award Winners
Offensive MVP: Bernard Jackson, QB, junior
(1359 yards passing, 7 touchdowns and 676 yards rushing, 7 TDs)
No one was more of a lightning rod for scruitiny than the inexperienced, scatter-armed Jackson but through it all, he remained calm and kept grinding through the season, confident in his ability. What wins him this award is perseverance and 14 touchdowns (7 passing, 7 rushing). Rushing for 676 yards is not something many CU quarterbacks have done. His passing leaves a lot to be desired but who else impressed more?
Others of note: Hugh Charles, RB (779 yards rushing and 5.6 yards per carry), Mel Holliday, RB (512 yards rushing, 4.9 yards per carry).
Reader votes: Riar Geer, TE (24 catches for 261 yards, 1 TD).
Defensive MVP: Abe Wright, DE, senior (pictured), (57 tackles, 11.5 sacks)
The defense had players scattered around but Wright was the wrecking ball opposing offenses most feared. Of course, his performance had to be enhanced by the surprising interior play of George Hypolite and Notre Dame transfer (what a beautiful ring that has to it) Brandon Nicolas. That Wright played up front, the first line of defense, gives him the nod over linebackers Jordon Dizon (137 tackles), Thaddaeus Washington (107 tackles, one interception, one fumble recovery) and cornerback Terrence Wheatley (57 takcles, 11 passes defensed and five interceptions).
Reader votes: Dizon, Ryan Walters, DB (57 tackles, two interceptions, one fumble return for a touchdown).
Team MVP: Ron Collins, defensive coordinator
Collins defense, for most of the season, was the bright light for this team. They played hard, and handled the pressure of an offense stuck in neutral with courage and determination. Collins' leadership, while questioned by fans when he was hired, ended up being impressive. Coach Dan Hawkins also deserves mention for his even-keel approach to a miserable season. His players, by appearances, believed in him and never jumped ship emotionally. Boss Hawkins showed class throughout and was an example of how to face adversity.
Reader votes: Jackson, Washington.
Best freshman, offense: Geer
Geer got off to a hot start, then cooled. That said, he shows the makings of a fine tight end, and his hands were compared to Christian Fauria by one local writer. As the offense opens up look for Geer to become a major player in weekly game plans. A possible 40-45 catch season is not out of the question.
Reader votes: Geer
Best freshman, defense: Michael Sipili, LB, (31 tackles)
That Sipili collected as many tackles as he did with the guys ahead of him on the roster says a lot. One longtime media observer told the BGB that he sees stardom for Sipili down the long and winding road. This next season will be one to watch. Can Sipili be healthy and take that big jump from enticing prospect to productive, consistent thumper?
Reader votes: Sipili, Cha'pelle Brown, DB (35 tackles, three for loss, one interception).
Best special teams playerm, non kicker: Terry Washington, DB, senior, (20 special teams' points)
Washington played hard, was all over the field against Oklahoma from his secondary position and also excelled on special teams with 11 unassisted tackles, two assists and two forced fumbles.
Others of note: Ben Carpenter (15 points)
Reader votes: Washington
Best special teams player, period: Mason Crosby, K, senior (19 of 28 FG)
Even in a disappointing personal season for his standards, Crosby is still the winner due to the expectations, what he did deliver (17 of 19 conversions from 49 yards and in) and the football weapon he was for this offensively-challenged team. He had to know the importance of scoring the ball with the struggles of the offense.
Reader votes: Crosby, Justin Drescher, long snapper.
Biggest surprise, individual: Holliday, RB, senior
Holliday came from deep on the depth chart to be the hard running power back the offense needed. That he went from no factor at Nebraska to small college nobody to solid contributor for a Big 12 school while raising a family speaks for itself.
Others of note: Hypolite, DT (50 tackes, 2.5 sacks, 10 others for losses), Nicolas, DT (57 tackles, 4 for losses), Geer, Walters, Wheatley, Lionel Harris, DB (67 tackles, 3 for losses, one interception).
Reader votes: Nicolas, "disappearance of (WR) Blake Mackey."
Biggest surprise, team: The defense
Collin's unit may not have been championship caliber or even three-win quality but it was better than expected and displayed the necessary toughness.
Reader votes:
"Crosby never got his shot at a 70-yarder"
"losing...period"
Players to watch in 2007: Jackson, Geer, Thomas Perez, RB, Dizon, Wheatley,
Nicolas & Hypolite.
Reader votes: Jackson, Geer, Sipili, Walters, Perez, Ryan Miller, OT (freshman), Marquez Herrod, DE, Gardner McKay, DB, Marcus Burton, LB, Jarrell Yates, WR.
Munsterteiger tackles Goree
Colorado, as predicted by Adam Munsterteiger of BuffStampede.com, went searching for more talent on the defensive line, traveling into Southeastern Conference territory to secure a verbal commitment from Eugene Goree.
The 6-foot-3 1/2 , 280-pound Goree of Murfreesboro, Tenn. earned honors his senior season, yet was not highly recruited, so why go so far to get what appears to be so little?
The Buffs obviously saw something they liked but what was it?
We went to Munsterteiger to see what it might have been.
BGB: Adam, what about Goree, do you believe, made CU want to get him into a Buffs' uniform?
Munsterteiger: Goree's recruitment reminds me a lot of Jalil Brown's recruiting process from last year. Brown had impressive vitals but most colleges did not think he was going to qualify academically because he was home schooled. While Goree was not home schooled, but he did have a lot of academic question marks. That kept a long list of colleges, including Louisville, from offering a scholarship.
But Goree recently received a positive score on his ACT and that is what prompted Colorado to bring him out on an official visit and offer him a scholarship.
Goree is a sleeper in the "recruiting world." But he was an all-state honoree and one of three finalists for the Mr. Football award in Tennessee this year so he is well known out in the Volunteer state.
"Goree is, to me, one of the most underrated players in Tennessee," Bryan Moss, the Tennessee preps writer on Rivals.com told me yesterday. "He has good size and speed and is strong. He's listed with a a 5.0 forty but I think he's faster than that. He has a good first move. Academics are a worry for Goree. Even with the academic worry, I'm surprised Colorado was his only offer."
BGB: Your opinion on CU continuing to establish watering holes all over the country for talent?
Munsterteiger: Talent is talent and if you can recruit nationally, you should. Sure, recruiting has a lot to do with building relationships but if a prospect can play and they can fit into your program and they are responsive to your interest, it shouldn't matter where they're from. You want to establish a presence in your backyard but the state of Colorado is only deep enough to offer around 10 prospects per recruiting cycle.
BGB: Adam, thanks for being there for an update. For more on Goree and Buffs' recruiting, you can read more at BuffStampede.com.
Will say this today...it is mighty impressive how Colorado is setting up camp in so many states East of home, primarily in SEC locales as well as in the Northeast. I've never seen anything like this for this program. Head coach Dan Hawkins may not be pulling in all high school All Americans but he is setting the precedent for getting talent anywhere. When he goes back in the future, people will not say "C-who?" The school will have recognition power. Once the wins start coming (color me confident) more frequently, look for a greater volume of higher-profile players.
On the recent verbals of Drew Hudgins and Goree, the Buffs have added depth up front, an area that has to be strong to be a "player" each fall. If Hudgins can come close to duplicating the pass rush he showed at the junior college ranks, if Goree can prove to was worth taking a flyer on, then CU will benefit immeasurably. Defense was a surprise this past season. To make it bigger, bolder, faster would accelerate the Hawkins' blueprint for success.
The 6-foot-3 1/2 , 280-pound Goree of Murfreesboro, Tenn. earned honors his senior season, yet was not highly recruited, so why go so far to get what appears to be so little?
The Buffs obviously saw something they liked but what was it?
We went to Munsterteiger to see what it might have been.
BGB: Adam, what about Goree, do you believe, made CU want to get him into a Buffs' uniform?
Munsterteiger: Goree's recruitment reminds me a lot of Jalil Brown's recruiting process from last year. Brown had impressive vitals but most colleges did not think he was going to qualify academically because he was home schooled. While Goree was not home schooled, but he did have a lot of academic question marks. That kept a long list of colleges, including Louisville, from offering a scholarship.
But Goree recently received a positive score on his ACT and that is what prompted Colorado to bring him out on an official visit and offer him a scholarship.
Goree is a sleeper in the "recruiting world." But he was an all-state honoree and one of three finalists for the Mr. Football award in Tennessee this year so he is well known out in the Volunteer state.
"Goree is, to me, one of the most underrated players in Tennessee," Bryan Moss, the Tennessee preps writer on Rivals.com told me yesterday. "He has good size and speed and is strong. He's listed with a a 5.0 forty but I think he's faster than that. He has a good first move. Academics are a worry for Goree. Even with the academic worry, I'm surprised Colorado was his only offer."
BGB: Your opinion on CU continuing to establish watering holes all over the country for talent?
Munsterteiger: Talent is talent and if you can recruit nationally, you should. Sure, recruiting has a lot to do with building relationships but if a prospect can play and they can fit into your program and they are responsive to your interest, it shouldn't matter where they're from. You want to establish a presence in your backyard but the state of Colorado is only deep enough to offer around 10 prospects per recruiting cycle.
BGB: Adam, thanks for being there for an update. For more on Goree and Buffs' recruiting, you can read more at BuffStampede.com.
Will say this today...it is mighty impressive how Colorado is setting up camp in so many states East of home, primarily in SEC locales as well as in the Northeast. I've never seen anything like this for this program. Head coach Dan Hawkins may not be pulling in all high school All Americans but he is setting the precedent for getting talent anywhere. When he goes back in the future, people will not say "C-who?" The school will have recognition power. Once the wins start coming (color me confident) more frequently, look for a greater volume of higher-profile players.
On the recent verbals of Drew Hudgins and Goree, the Buffs have added depth up front, an area that has to be strong to be a "player" each fall. If Hudgins can come close to duplicating the pass rush he showed at the junior college ranks, if Goree can prove to was worth taking a flyer on, then CU will benefit immeasurably. Defense was a surprise this past season. To make it bigger, bolder, faster would accelerate the Hawkins' blueprint for success.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Buffs proving not to be too ugly to call
Like they say, "there is someone out there for everyone."Colorado may not be a basketball school, may not be much to look at, but that doesn't mean no one is checking out the Buffs' head coaching position for the end of this season when Ricardo Patton leaves the program.
Four new people contacted the school recently and the overall count is close to 40, according to a Tom Kensler story in the Denver Post.
Athletic director Mike Bohn has the job of sorting through all that interest to determine who, if anyone, can get CU from point A to point Z.
"We're trying to decipher who is serious and who is viable," Bohn told the Post.
Bohn was quoted in the story as saying he has not yet decided whether a candidate has to have experience as a head coach. The more I ruminate on that question, the more I speak to others, the more convinced I become that, for this program, you must eliminate as many risk factors as possible. The margin for error in Boulder is extremely slim. Someone who has the "W's," as in many more "W's" than losses by his name is a much safer choice who has never been the the lead dog.
Look who Bohn chose for the football opening: magnetic personality (ask the media, players, and recruits), high-wattage energy, and with a serious track record of winning.
I wouldn't look for Bohn to deviate from that type of candidate. This is a decision that could either go a long ways towards defining him as one astute hiring manager or relegate him to name calling from frustrated and angry fans and boosters and sentence him to doubt from many on his future moves.
The guess here?
Some very interesting and qualified names will be speaking with Bohn and the man with the power to be kingmaker will have some desirable choices on the menu. Bohn comes across already as a man of patience, no directed by public opinion but instead by personal conviction.
The unknown is difficult, the wait is maddening but good things come to those who wait sometimes.
That goes for AD's, fans, and even players.
Richard Roby, Jermyl Jackson-Wilson (pictured), Jeremy Williams, Xavier Silas and Kal Bay all could return next year for a potentially solid nucleus. If some of the big bodies develop, the Buffs could be highly competitive with the right leader. That person could also put people in seats (a Scott Wilke requirement), sell the program and have recruits listening to CU when other coaches have fallen short.
Such a decision isn't made rashly. It comes after careful deliberation.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Goodman names names for Patton's successor
The fact is Ricardo Patton announced his resignation a season before he planned to step down as basketball coach at Colorado, leaving the masses to speculate early who will replace him.
The struggles on the court have only heightened the passions of those ready for new leadership.
In following that line of thought, the Black and Gold Breakdown went to Jeff Goodman of FoxSports.com to get what he has -- insight on the college basketball scene, word from the street, courtside, however you want to look at it.
Goodman impressed enough with his ideas that this space would like to nominate him for the CU search committee, like pronto.
BGB: What does a program like Colorado, an up-and-down, middle-of-the-pack school have to do to attract a top-coaching-talent pool in its' mission of finding a replacement for Patton?
Goodman: First of all, obviously, money is key. Money and a commitment to the program that means first class, whether its the traveling, whether its taking chartered flights, giving (a coach) a private plane, stuff like that. Those are the types of things coaches want because they feel they feel they can do their job and compete.
Probably a young guy. You can't take one of those recirculated guys like (Rick) Majerus. He won't get it done. I think you need a young guy who's going to work, go up against the Bill Self's, the Bob Huggins', (Billy) Gillespie's, those guys who are proven to be very good recruiters and guys who really get after it.
Everybody still sees Colorado as a football school. Nobody views it as a basketball school.
Mark Few (Gonzaga) and Mark Turgeon (Wichita State), those guys you mentioned -- I don't think either of those guys...frankly, they can get better jobs. Few is in a much better job now.
BGB: First thing that comes to mind, Jeff, when I say University of Colorado -- big potential and an opportunity at a Big 12 school, a grave you dig yourself or something in between?
Goodman: Somewhere in between. A lot of coaches have done more with less.
Look at Texas A & M right now. Is that a great basketball school? No. But Billy Gillespie has got the talent in Texas, even if it's maybe the second-tier talent.
That's one thing that Colorado, whoever comes in, has to do. You have to keep the top talent in state, at home and you have to go into Texas and get some kids and go into California and get some kids maybe that UCLA didn't go after. The UCLA's, the Arizona's can only get so many guys. There is enough talent out there. You just have to do a good job evaluating and really get after it and they need a guy who's a proven winner.
I think a great choice would be, and I said I don't think he would go there, would be Turgeon. He'd be my first guy. I can't see there's any chance, I can't see him having any interest.
BGB: You are the deciding vote in naming a new coach. What are your must-have requirements for that person and what names would most intrigue you as candidates?
Goodman: At Colorado, a young guy who is willing to work and get out there. A charismatic guy. Someone who is not afraid of the top coaches. You're coaching against Huggins and Bobby Knight four times a year. That's tough. Not just anybody can do that. Self and Rick Barnes -- it's a tough league right now. You're going to need someone who is not intimidated easily.
Who's that guy?
Chris Lowery would be a good one to look at, from Southern Illinois. He's young, only about 35-years old that might be someone you could get.
Someone I might look at is Greg Marshall of Winthrop. He wouldn't back down at all. He's tough as nails.
Look at Butler right now -- Todd Lickliter. He's be someone you'd have to look at with what Butler is doing.
Jim Christian at Kent State. They're down this year but he might be someone.
I just don't think you can have a chance at getting Turgeon or (Dana) Altman (Creighton).
(Jeff) Bzdelik at Air Force, that would make the most sense of anyone who's name has been thrown out. Now, his style of play may not be what fans would want to see, but he wins.
Darin Horn, Western Kentucky.
Mike Dunlap (Metro State) is an interesting one. He's a helluva coach. He's a great-great coach. He's not intimidated and I've had so many coaches say this guy is one of the best in the business, that's he's that good, he just hasn't gotten the opportunity.
I'm not sure this is a job for an assistant, just don't think they're going to go the assistant route.
BGB: The Big 12 -- looking at the league, how do you see it now? Who's for real and who's overrated currently?
Goodman: I think it's a little bit of a rebuilding year for the Big 12. Kansas is definitely the cream of the crop and will rise to the top once Big-12 play starts. Texas A & M and Oklahoma State are probably the next tier.
In two years, we're looking at a league, however, that could be the best in America once Huggins gets it going, with Bill Walker and Michael Beasley (heavily recruited preps), once Texas gets a little older and experienced and Kansas -- we'll see what happens with them, how many guys leave (for the NBA) after this year.
BGB: Check out FoxSports.com today and see Jeff's article on Ohio State freshman center Greg Oden. A powerfuel comparision for the young Buckeye. Good work, interesting read.
The struggles on the court have only heightened the passions of those ready for new leadership.
In following that line of thought, the Black and Gold Breakdown went to Jeff Goodman of FoxSports.com to get what he has -- insight on the college basketball scene, word from the street, courtside, however you want to look at it.
Goodman impressed enough with his ideas that this space would like to nominate him for the CU search committee, like pronto.
BGB: What does a program like Colorado, an up-and-down, middle-of-the-pack school have to do to attract a top-coaching-talent pool in its' mission of finding a replacement for Patton?
Goodman: First of all, obviously, money is key. Money and a commitment to the program that means first class, whether its the traveling, whether its taking chartered flights, giving (a coach) a private plane, stuff like that. Those are the types of things coaches want because they feel they feel they can do their job and compete.
Probably a young guy. You can't take one of those recirculated guys like (Rick) Majerus. He won't get it done. I think you need a young guy who's going to work, go up against the Bill Self's, the Bob Huggins', (Billy) Gillespie's, those guys who are proven to be very good recruiters and guys who really get after it.
Everybody still sees Colorado as a football school. Nobody views it as a basketball school.
Mark Few (Gonzaga) and Mark Turgeon (Wichita State), those guys you mentioned -- I don't think either of those guys...frankly, they can get better jobs. Few is in a much better job now.
BGB: First thing that comes to mind, Jeff, when I say University of Colorado -- big potential and an opportunity at a Big 12 school, a grave you dig yourself or something in between?
Goodman: Somewhere in between. A lot of coaches have done more with less.
Look at Texas A & M right now. Is that a great basketball school? No. But Billy Gillespie has got the talent in Texas, even if it's maybe the second-tier talent.
That's one thing that Colorado, whoever comes in, has to do. You have to keep the top talent in state, at home and you have to go into Texas and get some kids and go into California and get some kids maybe that UCLA didn't go after. The UCLA's, the Arizona's can only get so many guys. There is enough talent out there. You just have to do a good job evaluating and really get after it and they need a guy who's a proven winner.
I think a great choice would be, and I said I don't think he would go there, would be Turgeon. He'd be my first guy. I can't see there's any chance, I can't see him having any interest.
BGB: You are the deciding vote in naming a new coach. What are your must-have requirements for that person and what names would most intrigue you as candidates?
Goodman: At Colorado, a young guy who is willing to work and get out there. A charismatic guy. Someone who is not afraid of the top coaches. You're coaching against Huggins and Bobby Knight four times a year. That's tough. Not just anybody can do that. Self and Rick Barnes -- it's a tough league right now. You're going to need someone who is not intimidated easily.
Who's that guy?
Chris Lowery would be a good one to look at, from Southern Illinois. He's young, only about 35-years old that might be someone you could get.
Someone I might look at is Greg Marshall of Winthrop. He wouldn't back down at all. He's tough as nails.
Look at Butler right now -- Todd Lickliter. He's be someone you'd have to look at with what Butler is doing.
Jim Christian at Kent State. They're down this year but he might be someone.
I just don't think you can have a chance at getting Turgeon or (Dana) Altman (Creighton).
(Jeff) Bzdelik at Air Force, that would make the most sense of anyone who's name has been thrown out. Now, his style of play may not be what fans would want to see, but he wins.
Darin Horn, Western Kentucky.
Mike Dunlap (Metro State) is an interesting one. He's a helluva coach. He's a great-great coach. He's not intimidated and I've had so many coaches say this guy is one of the best in the business, that's he's that good, he just hasn't gotten the opportunity.
I'm not sure this is a job for an assistant, just don't think they're going to go the assistant route.
BGB: The Big 12 -- looking at the league, how do you see it now? Who's for real and who's overrated currently?
Goodman: I think it's a little bit of a rebuilding year for the Big 12. Kansas is definitely the cream of the crop and will rise to the top once Big-12 play starts. Texas A & M and Oklahoma State are probably the next tier.
In two years, we're looking at a league, however, that could be the best in America once Huggins gets it going, with Bill Walker and Michael Beasley (heavily recruited preps), once Texas gets a little older and experienced and Kansas -- we'll see what happens with them, how many guys leave (for the NBA) after this year.
BGB: Check out FoxSports.com today and see Jeff's article on Ohio State freshman center Greg Oden. A powerfuel comparision for the young Buckeye. Good work, interesting read.
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