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Blue White Roundtable: Pre-Capital One Bowl edition - William World News
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Pre-Capital One Bowl edition
Blue White Roundtable has risen from the dead! Devon Edwards of Nittany Whiteout provided the main questions. I asked the primary BCS one. Frankly, I think it should have been Zombie Nation, given the "hiatus." 1. Penn State finished off this season with 10 wins, but lost the only two games that were really in question. What will your lasting memory of the 2009 season be?I am afraid my lasting memory of the 2009 season will be the Iowa game. It was so dispiriting to see the Nittany Lions lose to them again and in the fashion they did with the offensive line completely submitting to Iowa's d-line. 2. Though they miss out on a BCS Bowl, the Nittany Lions will face off with a highly ranked SEC opponent in a New Year's Day bowl. What are your initial thoughts about the matchup with LSU in the Capital One Bowl?It seems like a good matchup, two big name programs in slightly down years. LSU has lost three games, but two of them were to Florida and Alabama who were #1 and #2 in the BCS they played each other. This is an opportunity for a quality win to validate the season and Daryll Clark's legacy. Plus LSU coach Les Miles is ballsy/batsh*t crazy enough to possibly give Penn State the game on a bizarre coaching decision. Of course, it could go the other way too, but the possibility of a entertaining, chaotic game is very high with LSU. 3. When it's all said and done, where will Daryll Clark rank among Penn State QBs? What will you remember about Clark thinking back on the 2008 and 2009 seasons a few years from now?I really cannot say how Clark will rank, since he still has one game to play. At the beginning of the year, I was thinking a great Penn State quarterback, but I think he's been downgraded to very good. He needs a win on Jan 1. if he is to truly be considered a great QB. Still, he is only the third Penn State QB to win a Big Ten title and that counts for a lot. He was certainly hampered by a bad offensive line this year and he gets too fired up sometimes. Overall, I've enjoyed his tenure at QB and hope he elevates himself to great status again. 4. Which seniors are you most sad to see go? If you could bring one of them back in 2010, who would it be?
I am saddest to see OLB Sean Lee go because I don't think he was able to maximize his potential due to injuries. A healthy Sean Lee probably would have been greater than Dan Connor and not far behind Paul Posluszny. By the way, I think if Navarro Bowman comes back he could exceed Connor and Lee, but that seems unlikely. I wouldn't mind having Clark back next year since his understudy has no experience. I'll also miss MLB Josh Hull, who exceeded all expectations. DT Jared Odrick was a beast whose value we'll probably appreciate even more next year after he is gone. P Jeremy Boone will also be missed. 5. What are your feelings on the Fiesta Bowl matching up the two undefeated mid-majors, instead of setting up Iowa-Boise State and Georgia Tech-TCU matchups? Does it support a playoff argument?I think the Fiesta Bowl is setting up for sending the message of "we tried having mid-majors and the TV ratings were terrible and the stadium didn't sell out, so we won't do it again" but we'll see what happens. This season, with five undefeated teams going into bowl season, is the strongest argument for a playoff yet. I just wonder how long until the backlash really starts hurting college football. This might be the year. Lightning round1. Do either Bowman or Royster (or both!) skip their senior seasons and enter the NFL Draft?I wouldn't be surprised if OLB Navarro Bowman doesn't return to Happy Valley after the bowl game, he's gone. Though another year would do him a lot of good as a player, I can't argue a decision to follow the money. I think RB Evan Royster sticks around, even though the offensive line next year won't be great on paper. 2. Who wins the MNC Game, Alabama or Texas?'Bama 3. Will you be heading down to Orlando to watch the Capital One Bowl live? Who wins?I will not be in Orlando, I'll be at work. I think Penn State pulls it out, despite a 1-3 record in Orlando. 4. Predict the draft stock of the following Nittany Lion seniors:- [Bowman/Royster] --Bowman 1st Royster (stays at Penn State)
- Jared Odrick -- late 1st
- Sean Lee -- 3rd
- Andrew Quarless -- 4th
- Dennis Landolt -- undrafted
- Daryll Clark -- 5th
- Mickey Shuler -- undrafted
- A.J. Wallace -- undrafted
Bonus question: How does the BCS work?The Bowl Championship Series was created to maintain the status quo for the four major bowls, the Rose, Orange, Sugar and Fiesta and keep the major conferences; Big Ten, SEC, Big XII, Pac-10, ACC and Big East plus Notre Dame (when they win enough games) in contention for the mythical national championship. Basically, it freezes out smaller conference teams and keeps the power and money with the big teams/conferences. Essentially, those four bowls and six conferences created a cartel that other conferences have trouble breaking through. Some say simply "It doesn't work." The roundtable2 the Lion FOOTBALL
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 Penn State, Nittany Lions, college football, LSULabels: Blue White Roundtable, Penn State Football, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 11:45 AM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Penn State at Michigan - William World News
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Penn State at Michigan
Three people contributed questions this week, no lightning round (yet). 1) The Penn State offensive line looked awful against a very good Iowa defense. They looked pretty good over the last three games, against the Big Ten's two worst defenses and a I-AA scrimmage. This week they face a decent, but not great, Michigan defense. Is the O-line up to the challenge and can they block Brandon Graham?Graham is the big x factor and I think Penn State is going to need running back help on him. He will get his pressures, knockdowns and maybe a couple of sacks, but I don't think that is enough to necessarily beat Penn State. If he can get in Daryll Clark's head though, Penn State is in big trouble. Clark gets pretty worked up sometimes and that causes lots of problems. However, if somebody can keep Clark focused, Graham will probably be a manageable problem. 2) Eric Decker was (for the most part) not a factor in the minnesota game. Was this due to the weather, his being "over rated" or has PSU's secondary, primarily AJ Wallace, benefited from the extra practice and challenges from the coaches?I think all three contributed to Decker having an off day, but one thing was not mentioned but just as important was the lack of possession for Minnesota on Saturday. The Penn State offense simply had the ball so much Minnesota never got a chance to get going on offense. 3) Tate Forcier captured the eyes of America with some phenomenal late play in some of Michigan's earlier games, with his last-second touchdown drive against Notre Dame drawing enormous praise to the true freshman. However, he found himself riding the bench in the fourt quarter last week against Iowa, and Penn State has been strong against the pass all year. How will the Penn State defense fair at containing Forcier, who is a true dual-threat quarterback?I think Penn State would be wise to utilize the old "Polish nickel" defense and drop a lot of men back in coverage. Decker is most dangerous on the run, let's see how he does sorting out of a lot guys in white running around the secondary. Make adjustments as needed. I don't know how stubborn Michigan is under Rich Rodriguez, but if he is determined to throw the ball, let him and then make him pay for it. Lightning RoundPenn State's streak of not allowing a first half TD comes to end this weekend, True or False?True Who's a better performer in FatBoy Slim's Weapon of Choice video? Christopher Walken or Tate Forcier?
Walken, duh
Does Penn State win this Saturday in Ann Arbor for the first time since '96?Unfortunately, I have to pick against Penn State in Ann Arbor until proven otherwise The roundtable2 the Lion FOOTBALL
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Penn State, Nittany Lions, college football, Michigan Wolverines, coverage map, ABC, ESPNLabels: Blue White Roundtable, Penn State Football, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Homecoming '09 - Sorority pledges to sit on cold sidewalks - William World News
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Homecoming '09 - Sorority pledges to sit on cold sidewalks
Kevin from Penn State Clips has this week's questions. 1.) How does Penn State stop the Minnesota offense (a/k/a Eric Decker)?Penn State has a big advantage against Minnesota because the Nittany Lions have a strong defensive line and Minnesota's offensive line gives up a lot of sacks. Part of that is because QB Adam Weber doesn't get rid of the ball. I really like this matchup as I see sacks and maybe some interceptions getting created. WR Eric Decker though will probably have a good day and get in the end zone at least once. He will have to have a great day to beat the Nittany Lions. 2.) Is Minnesota's defense as awful as their statistical rankings make it look?The Golden Gophers have given up at least 20 points in all but one (Air Force) of their games this season, including Syracuse. Their defense is that awful. Of course, if Minnesota wears their yellow/gold pants, all bets are off. Seriously, there is no bigger kryptonite for Penn State than yellow/gold pants. After all, Michigan and Iowa wear them all the time, Minnesota some of the time. Hopefully, they will choose one of the white or maroon pants. 3.) Mid-point of the season, which of the PSU freshmen do you project as future stars?WR Justin Brown has some potential. I have not seen a big enough sample size for QB Kevin Newsome yet though. His mechanics need work. Lightning round (provided be...me!)Where were you when Minnesota got lucky because Penn State did not put them away at Homecoming '99?I was seated near the visiting section with my uncle and aunt, who were attending their first Penn State game. My parents and brother were also in attendance. I wanted to knock the Minnesota mascot's head off after that game. My uncle and aunt have never been to another game. That might be my worse Penn State football memory. Will Minnesota open with an on-side kick?Probably not, Glen Mason is now a Big Ten Network color commentator. What is your best homecoming memory (that you can say in this forum at least :p)?My best Homecoming memory is marching in the parade with the Metro Washington D.C. Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association. The roundtable2 the Lion FOOTBALL
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Penn State, Nittany Lions, college football, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Labels: Blue White Roundtable, Penn State Football, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Eastern Illinois - William World News
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Eastern Illinois
This week I volunteered to write the questions for Blue White Roundtable for some reason. Given that Penn State is playing Eastern Illinois this week, I should have just keep my mouth shut. It wasn't easy coming up with these: 1 - Penn State played its most complete game of the season thus far against Illinois. What pleased you the most about the performance?I was pleased to see that the offensive line came together and pushed some people around. I think pulling the guards more helped and a little success. The second half domination was also quite agreeable, they just need to do it in the first half too. 2 - Has your outlook on the season changed dramatically compared to this time last week? What about before the Iowa game?I feel a little better about my 11-2 season record prediction then right after Iowa, because as bad as Illinois is they still have athletes and Penn State was more physical with them. Going into the season, I had kind of expected Illinois to be a loss and Iowa to be a win. Even though we have the record I expected, I'm not as enthusiastic as I was before Iowa.
3 - Eastern Illinois actually looks like a decent I-AA err FCS team, having been in that division's top 25 this season. How long can they stay in it with Penn State?If Eastern Illinois is within 10 points at halftime, I am going to be pretty mad at Penn State. I have no worries for the defense, but the offense needs at least 20 points in the first half or they are in real trouble. Eastern Illinois should be out of it in time for the Blue Band half time show. I expect them to be well-coached though, since Bob Spoo has been there since the mid-1980s, he clearly knows what he is doing. Lightning round
Will the scoreboard be fixed by Saturday? Some panels blew off in the wind on Wednesday.Yes, they will fast-track it if it is not still windy. Anybody having luck selling their Eastern Illinois tickets at face value?No, but I know a couple of friends are trying to unload some. I am going to watch it locally, though I don't have ESPN Classic, so I'll be looking elsewhere. What is your favorite college football blog that isn't about Penn State?EDSBSThe roundtable2 the Lion FOOTBALL
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Penn State, Nittany Lions, college football, Eastern Illinois, Labels: Blue White Roundtable, Penn State Football, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 12:12 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Ilinois - William World News
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Ilinois
Kevin from Penn State Clips has this week's questions. 1) The BCS Championship Game dream is dead, but Penn State can still go to the Rose Bowl (at least in theory). What's your best guess about our final record and bowl destination?At the beginning of the season, I predicted 11-2 with a loss to Illinois, I figured Iowa was a win. However, Illinois is worse than I expected and the game is a 3:30 p.m. kickoff helps Penn State. Anyway, I guess I should stick with that prediction, but I will say Capital One Bowl. 2) Illinois beat I-AA Illinois state, but sandwiched it with losses to Mizzou (37-9 in St. Louis) and at Ohio State (30-0). They have, by far, the worst pass offense in the Big Ten and their pass defense stinks as well. They put little pressure on the quarterback (1.3 sacks per game) and they do a lousy job in protecting the passer (3.33 sacks per game). In short, the Illini stink. Who rights, the ship on Saturday, PSU or Illinois? Discuss.If you lose two games by an average of 29 points, you are pretty bad. I expect Penn State to right the ship this weekend because the defense is strong and the offense probably just played their worst game. Illinois probably plays better against Penn State than they did against Ohio State and Missouri, but it won't be enough.
3) The Nittany Lions are 2-8 this decade in Big Ten openers and 3-6 in Big Ten road openers. (Obviously there's some overlap there.) The two wins in Big Ten openers were during the championship years of 2005 and 2008. What's the problem?Four of those years were the dark times, so that was half the problem. The other problem is the team has trouble playing early games on the road which a number of Big Ten openers tend to be, last week notwithstanding. Also, when the non-conference schedule winds up being pretty soft like this year, they don't learn anything the first few weeks and probably get a little bored. 4) Last week's blocked punt for an Iowa touchdown was the turning point in the game. Twice this decade a kickoff return touchdown has been critical in an Illinois victory over Penn State and the way things are going it could happen again Saturday. What's the problem with Penn State's "special" teams? Poor coaching? Lack of a dedicated special teams coach? Not getting our best athletes on the field?I disagree that the punt block was the turning point of the game. I think the safety that put Iowa on the board was the critical play -- it gave the Hawkeyes confidence and may have rattled the offense. I think poor coaching is a big part of the special teams problems, though I don't expect Joe Paterno to run any on-side kick drills anytime soon. Not many college teams have a special teams coach though, if I recall correctly. Quick Hitters...The line is Penn State -7. Cover or no?They cover Are you going to the game?I don't go to many games in Happy Valley, much less the middle of Illinois. It is not in the top tier of Big Ten schools to visit. True or false: Chief Illiniwek was retired as the Illinois mascot after protests by members for the Illiniwek tribeFalse, there is no such thing as the Illiniwek tribe. The NCAA wanted to get rid of Native American symbolism by its member institutions. I'm ambivalent about the subject. Will Chicago be awarded the 2016 Olympics on Friday?Sure The Roundtable
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Nittany Lounge Penn State, Nittany Lions, college football, Illinois Fighting Illini, Labels: Blue White Roundtable, Penn State Football, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 12:19 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Iowa - William World News
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Iowa
1. As this week's matchup with Iowa represents not just Penn State's first conference game, but their first real test, take a look back at the 3-game preconference schedule. What was the one thing that stood out to you most, either as a success or a failure?The most glaring thing about the first three games is the offensive line not getting it together yet. The pass blocking was pretty good for the first two games, but not the third, while the run blocking was just the opposite. I simply did not expect that to be an issue heading into the fourth week of the season. A good offensive line is the surest way to win and the Nittany Lions do not appear to have one yet. 2. Iowa, on the other hand, has been tested twice already this season, both by D1-AA Northern Iowa and by Arizona, a solid Pac-10 team. How much of an advantage, if any, will the Hawkeyes have over Penn State as a result?I think Iowa definitely has an advantage going into the game having been tested twice already. They must be feeling more confident in what they can do and believing in themselves a bit. I think this helps them leading up to the game and if they keep it close heading to the fourth quarter.
3. It seems like both Penn State and Iowa have been hit pretty hard by the injury bug early in the 2009 season, with Iowa losing the services of RB Jewel Hampton, LT Bryan Bulaga, TE Tony Moeaki and WR Darrell Johnson-Koulianos and Penn State potentially without both Sean Lee and Navorro Bowman, along with Graham Zug. How will both teams adjust to playing without some of their star players?Normally, I'd say Penn State would be better able to adjust to injuries, but they have had so many their depth is an issue, especially at linebacker. Sean Lee and Navarro Bowman are the keys for Penn State, if they can play at or close to full speed, I think Penn State will be fine. Iowa seems to be getting by without those starters. 4. Last year, a loss to Iowa knocked Penn State out of the championship race. This year, they're in a similar place, as they largely control their own destiny. Do you see Penn State running the table in the Big Ten, and if not, where is the most likely slip-up?Don't most undefeated teams "control their own destiny" at this point? I predicted a 11-2 season and have not seen anything to suggest they can exceed that prediction. If anything, I have seen that they are likely to fall short of it. I think Iowa, Michigan, Ohio State and Michigan State as possible stumbling blocks. They really need to up their game to win the conference this year. 5. This will be the fourth year that Beaver Stadium hosts a White Out, and it's universally regarded as one of the best traditions in the NCAA. What suggestions would you have to further improve gameday conditions at the Beav?The surest way to improve gameday conditions to get Guido D'Elia out of the soundbooth! His constant barrage of piped in music has dumbed down the atmosphere and made it sound like a minor league game and not college football. It is terrible and makes me less likely to go to games. Why drive all that distance, spend all that money to not hear the Blue Band? Also, "Livin' on a Prayer" have got to go. Since when do Pennsylvanians like anything from New Jersey anyway? "Sweet Caroline" is a Red Sox thing that is infecting stadia across the country. Lightning Round:Who runs for more yards, Iowa or Penn State?Iowa
Last year's Whiteout game drew 109,626 people to Beaver Stadium. How many come this year?108,138 If you had to win just one of the two, would you rather Penn State beats Iowa or Ohio State?I don't know, let's just win both. Does Corso put on the Lion or Hawkeye head?Hawkeye Does Penn State get revenge, or does Iowa make it 7 of 8 against the Lions?Penn State wins, but it is harder than it needs to be. The Roundtable2 the Lion FOOTBALLPenn State ClipsHappy Hour Valley
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Penn State, Nittany Lions, college football, Iowa Hawkeyes, Labels: Blue White Roundtable, Penn State Football, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 12:00 PM |
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# posted by :
Thursday, September 24, 2009 6:51:00 PM
Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Temple - William World News
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Penn State vs. Temple
This week's questions are from Galen of The Nittany Line. Temple lost over half of their offensive line and their starting QB from a team that didn’t have much of an offense anyway (107th in total offense in the country) do they have a realistic shot at moving the ball against Penn State’s defense?The only way Temple can move the ball is if Penn State's defense is unmotivated and disinterested. I suppose there is a slight chance that they can throw the ball 15 yards downfield, but how often are they going to have enough time Homework time! You’ll have to dig deep and be creative for this one: name something about this Temple team that scares you (ok scare may be a bit much… how about gives you pause).I am scared that Al Golden, the Owls current head coach, will somehow convince Intercollegiate Athletics that he should be the next Penn State coach. The last time Temple had a scary player was when Paul Palmer was there. Oh the possible scary things, hurting an important player is one of them. Otherwise, let's be realistic. It isn't 1998, Viriginia Tech or homecoming, so I don't see Temple getting the upset. Temple lost to Villanova in week one on the last play of the game. If you’ll remember that also happened to Temple twice last season: bad luck or bad coaching?At this point, you have to wonder if bad coaching comes into play. I haven't followed Temple's loses, but apparently they are of the Buffalo Bills on Monday night variety. A good coach probably doesn't lose several last second heartbreakers in a short period of time. Quick HitsTrue or False: Penn State holds Temple under 200 yards of total offense?False True or False: Temple goes bowling this season?False On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “totally sucked” and 10 being “awesomeness of epic levels” – how did the Michigan victory over Chuck Weis make you feel last week? Be honest!I'll say five because I don't like either program. EDSBS/LSU Freek made it a lot more interesting though. Nittany Lounge
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Nittany Whiteout Penn State, Nittany Lions, TempleOwls, college footballLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 12:00 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Old rivalry - William World News
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Old rivalry
Jeff from Nittany Lounge offers this week's questions. 1. Coach Paterno says the biggest improvement in a team happens between week one and week two of the season. What area needs most improvement? What facet of play needs the least improvement?The offesive line needs to improve the most. They could not create holes for the running backs and center Stefan W. wasn't putting enough zip on the ball in shotgun situations. The defensive line needs the least improvement, they dominated Akron.
2. Syracuse is running what it calls the Stallion, a form of the Wildcat offense. It appeared to be effective against Minnesota. At one point during the Minnesota game, Syracuse had run the Stallion seven times, averaging over six yards per play. What does the PSU rush defense need to do break the Stallion?In order to break up the Stallion, Penn State needs to...show up. Seriously, this while annoying, seems to be targeted right at Penn State's strength -- the front seven. They may get some yardage, especially with Navarro Bowman not likely to play, but I think it will be hard earned and my bet is Syracuse wears out long before Penn State. 3. Minnesota squeaked out a win against the Orange(men). What expectation does this create for Penn State when playing Syracuse? And perhaps more importantly since it is a conference game, Minnesota?Syracuse should be more competitive than last year, so the game might not be a laugher in the first half. The Orange probably comes in with a lot more confidence, but I doubt it will matter that much. They did beat Notre Dame and Louisville last year, so they are not complete stiffs. Minnesota probably benefits finding a way to win a tough, overtime game on the road. In fact, unless they got really beat up, I don't see much downside for them. 4. This week next year Penn State will be playing Alabama on the road. What do you think about State playing Bama instead of the Cuse? Would you rather be tailgating in Happy Valley and attending another FCS beat down? Or sitting at home watching the game on the big screen? Should the Big Ten play at least one OOC game per year with the SEC or Big 12?You are kind of comparing apples to oranges (no pun intended) since they are both home and home series. I am glad Penn State has Alabama on the schedule (might have been more fine with it in 2005 when it was originally scheduled) because to be elite, you need to compete and beat the elite and that includes on the road. At this point in my life, I don't bother traveling to Penn State games against FCS (nee I-AA) programs because it costs too much money and time for a glorified scrimmage. I don't have a big screen either. I would be quite happy if Penn State played an OOC game with the SEC or Big XII annually. If it were up to me, the typicaly non-conference schedule would be like this: 1 or 2 old-time Eastern rival games (Maryland, Rutgers, Syracuse, etc.) One intersectional game (SEC, Pac-10, Big XII, etc.) 1 or 2 MAC game (including Temple) Get at least one marquee intersectional game and old Eastern rival each year. We don't need Eastern Illinois. Extra Points1. The current line is -28. Cover or Not?Not 2. Does Penn State show up for the second half?Yes, Syracuse will be within 16 at the half. 3. True/False: Syracuse is a better opponent than Akron.True -- at the very least they are an old rival which counts for something. Since they went the distance with Minnesota, I'm inclined to think they are much better than last year and even then they pulled off a few upsets. 4. Fact or Fiction: Sue Paterno once painted the Nittany Lion statue orange.Fact -- She was trying to rally apathetic fans. Then Syrcause students used oil-based paint and caused a real problem. Guard the shrine this week people! The Nittany Line
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Nittany Whiteout Penn State, Nittany Lions, Syracuse Orange, college footballLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 12:00 PM |
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# posted by WFY :
Wednesday, September 09, 2009 8:35:00 PM
# posted by Trader Kevin :
Thursday, September 10, 2009 10:26:00 AM
# posted by Trader Kevin :
Thursday, September 10, 2009 10:28:00 AM
Blue White Roundtable: exactly 3 days unti Penn State kickoff - William World News
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: exactly 3 days unti Penn State kickoff
This week's questions were provided by Zombie Nation. 1. We all know Penn State is going to beat Akron. But what is it about this year's Penn State team that really scares the crap outta you? Basically, explain what will cause you to throw the tortilla chips across the room more than once this Saturday?Like everyone else, I have concerns about the secondary, but I am not starting to get a little concerned about the depth of the defensive line. I have no doubt the Larry Johnson has developed some fine players, but they lost two players who left early and now Brandon Ware is hurt. I don't think that will be a big deal if everyone else can stay healthy, but I have that concern. I can't decide what would be worse -- ten yards off the Akron wideouts or Daryll Clark split wide. Either one is problematic, I guess Clark as a WR is more so. I doubt we'll see it though. 2. Hopefully, the backups will see plenty of playing time this weekend. Which second-stringer(s) are you most interested in seeing take the field against a living, breathing opponent? What kind of role do you want to see them play this year? (Note: if you say Kevin Newsome, you have to talk about at least one other player, too)I am always interested in seeing the backup QBs, so I'll stick with Newsome and add Mike McGloin in there too. I was going to say Ware, but he's out for a month. I definetely want to see how LB Bani Gbadyu does and whether he is likely to work his way into Josh Hull's position. 3. So Penn State's non-conference schedule sucks in terms of straight up opponent quality. That aside, tell us why or why not this opening slate will help or hurt this team later in the season.I don't think the schedule hurts the actual team too much, but had all the non-con games been back-to-back, I would change my tune, but having Eastern Illinois in October means they won't have four consecutive walkovers. Akron appears to be an ideal first game, because they are quite experienced on offense and can throw the ball well. That will give the secondary an early test that they need. Temple should hang in there more this year and actually cross the goal line. I have pretty low expectations for Syracuse visit and the Eastern Illinois game is just inexcusable scheduling. They might as well have brought in an good Ivy League team. The schedule hurts the perception of the program more than anything else. 4. What will it mean for this team to have Joe Paterno back on the sidelines again, right up in their facemasks, for ALL the games?I think the players will realize they had it pretty easy last year, but more than anything, I think the officials will realize they had it really easy last year. Quick Hits 1. Over/Under: Penn State's offense gains 500 total yards.Over 1a. Over/Under: Penn State's defense gives 350 total yards. Under (barely) 2. True/False: The student section will NOT fill out, even by the end of the game.It will fill out because it is game #1 of the season. It will take a while though. 3. Are you going to the game?Yes, we decided to go Monday and are really looking forward to it. It may be the only game we attend this season after no games last year. COMING FRIDAY!Chat at noon! I'm going to have an open forum to discuss Penn State football every Friday (or Thursday) at lunch. The RoundtableHappy Hour Valley
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Penn State, Nittany Lions, Akron ZipsLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 12:00 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Blue White Game & the 2009 NFL Draft - William World News
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Blue White Roundtable: Blue White Game & the 2009 NFL Draft
1. Ok, so the Blue White Game and spring practice is done. Whether you just read the reports, or actually watched the game... (a) What's one glaring team/unit/player issue you're still concerned with? (b) What are you most pleased with?I am always concerned with the offensive line because they have been the weak link, though not as much lately. I am a little concerned about the secondary though pleased with the performance of the quarterbacks. Usually, everyone but the incumbent has a tough day it seems. Since the return to prominence in 2005, the offensive line has been solid and downright good at times. With a decent offensive line, even Anthony Morelli can lead you to New Year’s Day bowl wins. The secondary was nothing special last year, but the Nittany Lions still won the Big Ten. 2. Navarro Bowman was held out of the game for probation violation. He did admit his mistake to Joe Paterno, and took responsibility. But he still shouldn't have done it. What punishment do you think will be appropriate, and why?Navarro Bowman will sit out at least a game, possibly two, but probably not three for admitting to using marijuana. I expect he will be doing community service during those times, like Dan Connor did back in 2005. 3. Penn State's offensive staff said after the game that things were kept pretty simple. Do you think this year's returning offense will be able to handle an offensive scheme with the same complexity as the 2008 version? Why or why not?I expect the scheme will not be as complex with the loss of the three starting wideouts. Who take the Derrick Williams role? That being said, it will look fairly similar to last year, just a little less gimmicky. 4. Five Penn Staters were drafted, while 10 more signed free-agent contracts. Was there any pick/signing that surprised you the most, either positively or negatively? What did this 2009 NFL Draft say about the Penn State football program?I was pleased to see two offensive lineman and two WRs drafted. I don’t really feel the need to validate Penn State by how it does in the NFL Draft though. Shooting from the hip... 1. Average PSU offensive PPG/defensive PPG in 2009?Offense: 430 ppg Defense: 270 ppg 2. USC's Mark Sanchez (5th overall - Jets): Too high?
No! Getting picked early meant he didn’t go to the Redskins. 3. How many Lions drafted in 2010?Four 4. List you're top three Big Ten teams, as of today.Penn State, Ohio State, Iowa Penn State, Nittany LionsLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2009
posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Remember on Dragnet whenever Friday and Gannon would have to go to Pasadena, they said "the home fo the Rose Bowl?" - William World News
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Remember on Dragnet whenever Friday and Gannon would have to go to Pasadena, they said "the home fo the Rose Bowl?"
Since my blogging is ultimately at the convenience of Blogger TM , I have no idea when this pre-Rose Bowl episode of Blue White Roundtable will actually appear. Anyway, this week's questions come from Zombie Nation. 1. Let's play a little catch up. How huge was the Kevin Newsome
pickup, and what should Penn State do with him in 2009? Is there
another commit you're particularly excited about, besides Newsome?
I am not excited about any recruits because recruiting is not my thing. I would rather be following other sports that are actually playing when Penn State football is out of season. That being said, Penn State really needed a QB after Pat Devlin decided he'd rather be a Blue Hen than a Nittany Lion, so this good news. 2. You've heard a lot about how Penn State doesn't have a shot in hell at beating USC. "The USC defense is the best ever... The Big Ten can't
win Rose Bowls... Penn State lost to lowly Iowa..." Tell us why any of
those arguments don't pass the rationality test.Penn State has an offense that was limited by only two things this year -- the playcalling on the road and Daryll Clark's concussion. That being said, USC is scary good, but not as good as previous editions. Penn State's pass rush is probably the key to the game. They need to pressure USC QB Matt Sanchez so that he cannot pick apart the secondary. 3. Pick one win this season that best exemplifies what Penn State must do in each facet of the game (example: Passing vs. MSU), to win the
Rose Bowl. Pick for passing, rushing, special teams, pass defense, run
defense, play-calling/coaching.Let's be realistic, Penn State is not likely to throw the ball as well against USC as they did against MSU. I'd love to see them pass that way. I'd like to see coaching adjustments like the Michigan game and a pass rush like that game too. Safetys are good. BonusPenn State # of scores vs. USC (touchdowns, field goals, anything)...Two touchdowns, three field goals USC # of scores vs. PSU...Two touchdowns, two field goals I guess that means I have a prediction. Joe Paterno finishes his 3-yr contract?This one or the one he signs in three years? Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
There is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
We Want the Lion
Penn State, Nittany Lions, USC Trojans, Rose BowlLabels: Blue White Roundtable
posted by WFY @ 12:05 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: I will not mock the Land Grant Trophy this year - William World News
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: I will not mock the Land Grant Trophy this year
Zombie Nation provided this week's questions. 1. So, are you freaking out this week? Did you honestly think Penn State would be in this position, going into the last week of the season? How about Michigan State?No, I'm not freaking out, though I could be. Oh, you meant about the Penn State game, no I am not freaking out about that either. I did not foresee Penn State in this position after Sean Lee went down, but that is okay, I'll take it. I never saw Michigan State in position to win the Big11Ten title though, since they are Michigan State and prone to some horrible loses at inoppurtune times. I am hoping for one of those this week, though it need not be horrible, just a loss will do. 2. What would you like to see more of/less of this week? I would like to see better offensive line play from Penn State more than anything. That sets up Daryll Clark to have a better day throwing the ball. I would also like to see him keep his composure better against the blitz. 3. What are your feelings towards Derrick Williams' career as a Nittany Lion? Has he lived up to the hype? How? If not, who's to blame? I don't think Derrick Williams has lived up to the hype that he did not create -- the recruiting gurus did. Nevertheless, he has had an excellent impact on the program on and off the field, though I feel he underachived a little during the middle part of his career. He seemed a step slow in his sophomore year and maybe a little last year. His decision to come to Penn State set the tone for the resurgence of the program. Williams has also carried himself better than some of his teammates. I wish him a lot of success. 4. The national media is back-pedaling on their summertime pro-SEC propaganda, now saying that conference in overrated. What gives? Haven't we (basically, everyone outside the SEC) been saying that the whole time? How would Penn State stack up against the top few SEC teams, like Alabama, Florida and Georgia, on a neutral field? I don't watch the SEC, so I could not say with much authority and I don't really care. Penn State has fared decently against the SEC in January for quite a while now. -Daryll Clark throws a pick? I think he'll keep it out of Sparty's hands. -Royster scores? How many times? Once. -Did you go to any games this year? How many? No, for the first time since I became a Nittany Lion, I did not attend a single game. Fatherhood has taken precedence to going to games. I made sure I missed very few prior to becoming a father because I anticipated this might happen. Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
There is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
We Want the Lion
Penn State, Nittany Lions, MichiganStateSpartansLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 12:30 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Who's there? - William World News
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Who's there?
1. What's something you noticed during the Iowa game, that you haven't heard anyone else talk about? Could be something good, or bad.Ummm, Jordan Norwood sure does like to jump up to catch the ball, but sometimes he drops it. 2. We all know Daryll Clark won't lose his starting job, but what
should the coaches really do this week? Will they, should they, let
the offense open up? Or keep it tight? What will be the repercussions
of either?They ought to work on technique, since that seemed to be a bit lacking last Saturday. They ought to open it up a little, but should not need to do it much in order to win. Some more throws to Mickey Shuler might help as well. 3. If Penn State does win out, and faces USC in the Rose Bowl, what will the media folks say before the game? if PSU wins? if PSU loses?It is way to early to worry about what the media folks will say if you even care. Remember what everybody was worried about last week? How did that work out? Bonus Round-Penn State comes out focused, or flat this week?I expect them to come out flat, get focus late in the first quarter and roll over the Hooisers. -Will Pat Devlin finally play again?Pat Devlin only plays if Daryll Clark is hurt or plays very well and builds up a big lead. -What could happen first: Notre Dame in Big Ten, or College Football Playoff?Playoff. Why should we care about Notre Dame again? Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
There is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
We Want the Lion
Penn State, Nittany Lions, Indiana HoosiersLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 12:24 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: The Hawkeyes look more like the Steelers than the Steelers do - William World News
Friday, November 07, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: The Hawkeyes look more like the Steelers than the Steelers do
Zombie Nation provided this week's questions. 1. Do you agree with Joe Paterno, that teams shouldn't have to
artificially inflate scores just to please the voters? We all know
it's just how college football works, but how comfortable are you with
that?I am in agreement with Coach Paterno on this one, though I suggest that it is better to win by 11 than by 4. One you get past a couple of touchdowns, the point is made. Running up the score against someone has a tendency of getting them motivated for the next couple of matchups. Of course, in the end, it is on the other team to stop you. 2. Iowa has been a very up-and-down team this season, and it's defense
can actually play. What are some of the unit-to-unit match ups you're
looking forward to seeing this week? Which team will win your chosen
battle and why?I want to see how the offense line stacks up and if they can open up holes for Evan Royster. Iowa's secondary is apparently a weak link though, so Daryll Clark vs. them and the weather could be the difference between a rout and a tight game. 3. Backtrack a week. There were riots downtown following the Ohio
State win. The State College Borough Council had plenty of discussion
about "why" it happened, and what could be done to "prevent it" in the
future. Of course, they got nowhere. Are wild, dangerous events like
this just a part of life at a big-time football school? Or should (or,
can) something be done about it?Were they really riots? A few light poles got knocked down as people massed in Beaver Canyon, that does not sound a like a riot to me. That was uncalled for but not a riot. Irresponsible people, cowards really, bask to much in the reflective glory of the football team, drink too much and decide to break stuff. It kind of comes with the territory of being a big state school with a strong athletics program. One thing I would do is try to shame the "rioters" and say things like, we're not WVU, we're not Maryland, stop acting like it! Lightening Round- Royster has a big game (100+ yds)?Yes and he will even get carries in the fourth quarter. - Devlin sees decent playing time?I doubt we will see Pat Devlin the game unless it is a blowout or Clark gets injured. -Chances (%) PSU holds Iowa below 10 pts?30% -- Iowa is more imaginative than Ohio State offensively. Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
There is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
We Want the Lion
Penn State, Nittany Lions, Iowa HawkeyesLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 1:30 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Buck the... - William World News
Friday, October 24, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Buck the...
We Want the Lion provided this week's questions. 1. Was Ohio State's blowout of Michigan State last weekend an anomaly or are the Buckeyes "back"?Where they ever really gone? They got crushed by USC with their best player on the sideline and then played seven other games of Tressel-ball. They still have great athletes and strong coaching. 2. What can Penn State do to avoid a slow start in this game?Win the coin toss, take the ball and have Derrick Williams return the kickoff for a touchdown. Other than that, pretend the game started in the second quarter. 3. Why is Ohio State ranked ahead of Penn State in the computer rankings? And why is every media member and his brother picking Ohio State this week?Computer rankings are weird, but hey in '94 The Times computer said Penn State was National Champions. Home field advantage has been a mortal lock for Ohio State in this series. Lightning Round: 1. Who gets more TDs on the ground, Clark or Pryor?Tied with 1 each. 2. If the winner of this game wins out, will they get a shot in the BCS title game?If they wear blue and white, yes. Scarlet and gray -- no way, pollsters won't allow it after the last two BCS games. 3. Does dotting the I even compare to our drum major doing flips?No, apples and oranges -- one is a feat of physical agility and the other is a fat guy with a sousaphone. There is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
Zombie Nation Penn State, Nittany Lions, Ohio State, BuckeyesLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 5:30 AM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Homecoming '08 -- Sorority girls to get new windbreakers - William World News
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Homecoming '08 -- Sorority girls to get new windbreakers
I wrote this week's questions... Penn State is undefeated and ranked #3 in both major polls. Have they been tested yet?I really don't think they have been tested, maybe quizzed. Wisconsin was reeling and nobody else on the schedule was very good. The test presented to Penn State this Saturday is more about themselves than Michigan I think. I expect a much better showing by the Wolverines than last week than the egg they laid against Toledo last week. What unit or player is most responsible for the Nittany Lions this season?I have to go with the offensive line. Teams with strong offensive lines make average quarterbacks good and good quarterbacks great. They have been opening holes for Evan Royster and keeping Daryll Clark's uniform clean. Honorable mention to the defensive line. How can Michigan beat Penn State on Saturday?The best way for Michigan to beat Penn State is to get in the Nittany Lions heads and make Penn State beat Penn State. This has happened before with heartbreaking results for those in blue and white. Getting turnovers and turning them in them into points is specifically the way Michigan can win. On paper this game is not even close, but that has not mattered in the past. Lightning roundGoing up for Homecoming?
No, I was originally scheduled to attend a family event this weekend, but now I plan on watching the game from the comfort of my couch. What do you think is going through Maurice Evans head?I cost myself millions of dollars over a stupid dorm party. Maybe Aaron Maybin is just having a good couple of weeks. Man, I've got the munchies. Where were you the last time Penn State beat Michigan?For some reason, I think I may have been in K-1 of the Kostos Building at the Old School. Memories are fuzzy because it was 1996 my sophomore year. I may have been at my parents too, but that would have been odd given the time of year. I do remember David Macklin's two blocked punts though. There is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
We Want the Lion
Zombie Nation Penn State, Nittany Lions, Michigan, WolverinesLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 7:30 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger - William World News
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger Badger
1. What must Penn State do or not do to come out of Madison victorious?Penn State needs to attack the Badgers with aggressive game plan and not fall into the typical road game trap that they set for themselves -- play close to the vest on offense and hope the defense can win it. Attack, attack, attack. Daryl Clark needs to be sharp and not afraid to take off when the wideouts are not open. 2. The Badgers are really down after dropping out of the rankings and losing their grip on a Big Ten title and a BCS Bowl. There is concern that the Badgers are emotionally spent (Journal-Sentinel) and could collapse.
Does Wisconsin bounce back and beat Penn State or do they collapse? Is there reason for panic in Madison?That is a tough call since Michigan and Ohio State back-to-back is a tall order for anyone. If they play poorly on Saturday, they should panic. I don't think they have to win to avoid panicking, but they can't find a way to lose a winnable game. 3. The Big Ten has a good crop of running backs this year including Wisconsin true freshman John Clay who is averaging 6.7 yards per carry. How much playing time does Clay see this week compared to P.J. Hill? How does our defense fare against them?Hill will be the featured back, but Clay should get at least ten touches. I think Wisconsin will run the ball well since I am still not sold on Josh Hull, 11 solo tackles last week notwithstanding. 4. Between the third and fourth quarters the Wisconsin students do the "jump around", which shakes the stadium. How do you think the loud, jumping, night atmosphere will affect Penn State?It will not help, but I do not expect Penn State to be rattled by all the noise like Ohio State was in 2005. Everybody has played in these envirornments, so they will just have to deal with it.
Lightning RoundPredict the play calling. Do Galen and JayPa open up the offense or do they get conservative on the road?I think having a weaker than normal defense means Joe Paterno will reluctantly let Jay Paterno and Galen Hall be aggressive.
What are the odds Wisconsin loses two consecutive games at home?
50-50, I guess Does the Wisconsin band play this week?Probably How many quarters does JoePa spend in the coaches box?Well, if the band plays, I'll say five. The rest of the roundtableThere is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
We Want the Lion
Zombie Nation Penn State, Nittany Lions, Wisconsin, BadgersLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 1:30 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: On the Road for the first time - William World News
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: On the Road for the first time
Zombie Nation submitted the questions this week. 1. Name one unit-to-unit match up Penn State must win Saturday. How
does PSU win that battle?
I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for Penn State to win the battle of kick-holding. So few people realize that how well a team holds the ball for field goal and PATs is decides 96% of college football games. The offesnive line battle is also pretty important I understand. I think Penn State wins it easily.
2. This trip to Purdue is setting up to be a classic trap game. Do you
agree? Why or why not?I absolutely agree that this is a trap game. Sandwich between a big night game (which is it just me, shouldn't have been quite the big deal it was given that it was only September?) and an upcoming big game on the road, Penn State will probably be looking ahead. Actually, they will probably be looking ahead at some point, as this is a noon kickoff and they will still be looking behind at the start.
3. Purdue will be doing a "Black Out" this week. Putting aside that
it's going to raise money for charity (each shirt sold sends money to
United Way), what are your feelings on other schools organizing
"[insert color here] Outs?"I think color outs are not as big a deal as everyone makes them out to be. Are football players really intimidated when the see everyone wearing the same color? I guess it pumps the players up a bit. Before we get too proud, let's note that some teams like Nebraska and hockey's Washington Capitals get monochromatic in the stands without getting free t-shirts.
Lightening Round.Royster over 100 yards?Yes. Curtis Painter throws first TD ever vs. PSU?Yes. Pat Devlin gets meaningful playing time?No, unless Clark gets hurt. Have you noticed the "PLAY DEVLIN" chatter has calmed down a little bit? The rest of the roundtableThere is No Name on My Jersey
Tangled Up in
White and Blue
Happy Hour Valley
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
We Want the Lion
Zombie Nation Penn State, Nittany Lions, IllinoisLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 9:06 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Another orange team? - William World News
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Another orange team?
*warning - painfully obvious question alert* Penn State gets its first ‘real’ test this weekend facing a ranked opponent when the Fighting [None-Offensive-Mascot]s come to town. Gaze into your crystal ball and give us a short description on how Saturday night’s events will unfold. Or if you’re lazy just fire up NCAA 2009 and tell us what the Xbox thinks.I think the game is a bit of a shootout for a quarter or so, before Penn State settles down, starts stopping Illinois and runs the ball an awful lot. The student section will not be full at the start of the fourth quarter (or the first in all likelihood). Saturday’s game is on the big stage at 8:00 with most of the football world watching. It’s a white out and Penn State is favored by two scores (as of Monday). Is this a lose-lose situation (the only way they could look good is by winning big) for Penn State or golden opportunity to show the world what the Spread HD is all about?Apparently, it won't be my part of the football world as Virginia Tech vs. Nebraska takes precedence in the D.C. TV market which means *grumble, grumble* I have to get GamePlan. Anyway, I don't see it being lose-lose. An ugly win in September is forgotten in November. Now that all the fluff questions are out of the way do Maurice Evans and Abe Koroma get significant playing time?Well, they will not start, that much is certain. The better Penn State does, the more I expect them to play. Lightening RoundBack in 2007, Illinois Basketball fans made my skull crack open in rage slightly angered me when they befouled the statue of Joe Paterno. Do you hate the Illini like me or not so much?I don’t hate Illinois like you do, but maybe I should. Their program has been an afterthought all but about two seasons since Penn State joined the Big11Ten. It’s a night game please quantify the amount of alcohol you will consume before gametime (if you don’t drink please quantify the amount of fatty foods you will eat).Quantify? Quantity is vastly overrated – quality is the important part. I may have a serving prior to or during the game and ideally a bourbon to toast victory with following the game. The fatty foods will probably be limited to a couple of Nittany Lion franks soaked in beer and some sort of fried potato product. Granted, if I were at the game tailgating instead of watching from my couch, the quantity would be a little higher. Put it on the line – final score: Check back tomorrow! Penn State wins though. There is No Name on My JerseyTangled Up in
White and BlueHappy Hour ValleyBlack Shoe DiariesThe Nittany LineWe Want the LionZombie Nation Penn State, Nittany Lions, IllinoisLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 12:05 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: International Talk Like A Pirate Day - William World News
Friday, September 19, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: International Talk Like A Pirate Day
Ahoy, Zombie Nation provided t' questions this week and I have answered them in t' spirit o' t' greatest o' all days, International Talk Like a Pirate Day. 1. Penn State has the best scoring offense (55.3 ppg) in the Big Ten, and top-five nationally. Of course, this has been against two bad teams and a mediocre Oregon State squad. This week's Temple game should be another 40-plus game for the PSU offense. That being said, do you think this has been a fluke so far? Or is the Spread HD for real?"Nay mate, I don't think it be a fluke because t' offensive line be probably t' best we have seen since t' mid-90s and t' wideouts be all seniors who have been producin' since 2005. Also, t' QB whether it be Daryll Clark or Pat Devlin, be an upgrade over last year. It be too early t' say that t' Spread HD be for real, but at t' bare minimum it be an improvement from last season. 2. If Maurice Evans and Abe Koroma are convicted, what are the chances Joe Paterno will play either by the Illinois game? What message does it send to the team, and the nation, if both players are given light punishments? Conversely, what if the punishments are seemingly too severe, like dismissal?Arr, I think conviction equals a another game off matey, but that may be t' end o' it. Cap'n Paterno has handled this well so far by keepin' them away from t' team, but I think once t' criminal justice system be done with them they sit no more than a game. I think I be okay with that kind o' punishment, but I won't be cryin' in me grog if it be more harsh either. 3. Leadership has been a huge part of this year's team's ability to move past distractions. Who has to really step up this week and keep this team focused? How does the coaching staff figure into this, or should they just let the players handle it by themselves?
I question whether leadership has helped t' team; perhaps t' weakness o' t' opposition has more t' do with it than anythin' else. Obviously, t' cap'ns have t' step fore, but with Anthony Scirrioto bein' one o' them, I be very skeptical o' that workin' out. Sean Lee seems t' be more o' a leader than Dan Connor was tho' so that may offset Sciriotto a bit. Ultimately, I think each individual swabby has t' decide for himself that he be goin' t' live up t' expectations. Lightening Round Penn State throws its first interception this week?Probably, I think t' team will taste t' slightest bit o' adversity this week." Evan Royster's YPC vs. Temple? 6.4 ypc Coke or Pepsi?Pepsi wins out every day o' t' week and twice on Saturday." Th' bilge rats:There is No Name on My JerseyTangled Up in
White and BlueHappy Hour ValleyBlack Shoe DiariesThe Nittany LineWe Want the LionZombie NationPepsi wins out every day o' t' week and twice on Saturday." Penn State, Nittany Lions, Temple, OwlsLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 1:30 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Going Coastal - William World News
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Going Coastal
Wow, football season is days away. I can't believe it is already here. This week's questions are from me. 1. What are you optimistic about this season (Anthony Morelli running out of eligibility does not count)?I am very optimistic about the offensive line. I have every expectation that this will be the best offensive line since I was a wee underclassman in the mid-90s. Good lines make average quarterbacks look pretty good most of the time and with Evan Royster and Stephfon Green providing some thunder-and-lightning at running back this offense could be very powerful. 2. What are you pessimistic about this season?
I don't think I am pessimistic about any particular unit, though I have concerns about the secondary. Linebacking will not be the strength we are used to -- at least initially without Sean Lee, but Ron Vanderlinden has been churning out good linebackers lately, so I'm hoping that continues. I understand there will probably be a little learning curve, but the early season schedule should be good for getting through that phase. My pessimism is reversed for the coaching staff. The defense gives too much of a cushion on wideouts and the offense has Jay Paterno calling a lot of the play. My biggest concern is that Joe Paterno has lost the will to win, best evidenced by last year's Michigan game when he went conservative and predictable wheb the way to beat Micigan was pretty obvious. 3. Who is the most important player on either side of the ball?Daryll Clark will be the focus of the offense, because when isn't the quarterback? I am also looking at Derrick Williams to live up to the hype. On defense, I think is a toss-up between MLB Josh Hull and CB Lydell Sargent. Hull is a walk-on playing the "quarterback" for the defense, while Sargent has to prove his is not a liability in the secondary. Lightning RoundHow many games are you going to this season?Probably one, maybe two. The cost and nine-hour roundtrip is just too much with an infant. I missed only half-a-dozen home games in the last ten years knowing that this would happen, so I'm cool with it. Do you have Big11Ten Network?Yes, I just signed up for the $5 a month sports tier to get it. Where is Coastal Carolina located? Conway, S.C. near Myrtle Beach -- I stopped there in February and scouted the place out. [ flickr : my photos tagged with ccu/ slideshow] What record will Penn State have on January 9?10-3. I will provide more insight to that prediction on Friday, so be sure to check back. I will also have a compilation of media predictions from the Town & Gown Football Annual and hopefully Blue White Illustrated. If anybody has the BWI predictions, please send them to me at the E-mail link below. I'm sure Phil Grosz will say 12-1. The roundtableBlack Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
There Is No Name On My Jersey
Tangled Up In White and Blue
The Nittany Notebook
Run Up The Score
Penn State, Nittany LionsLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008, Television
posted by WFY @ 12:02 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Three months until football - William World News
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Three months until football
Blue White Roundtable makes a early summer appearance with questions from The Big Eleventh.
Of the PSU players who went undrafted but were picked up by NFL teams, which one has the best chance of actually seeing playing time in The League? Austin Scott (Cleveland) I guess, I doubt Anthony Morelli (Arizona) can even be a holder. Has Rodney Kinlaw signed anywhere yet?My office recently installed those vending machines that keep the coil spinning when your selection gets snagged by the oversized potato chips in the next slot over, usually resulting in two treats for the price of one. This has improved my occasional afternoon snacking 250%. What football technological improvement has most increased your afternoon football enjoyment the most in, say, the last five years? Improvements to highways on the way to Happy Valley have most increased your afternoon football. As for the actual game, technology -- if you can call the Big11Ten Network and Guido D'Elia's sound system that -- have lessened my football enjoyment. The first down line on TV is helpful, but that is about ten years old. List the top 5 Penn State games, in order of intrigue, that you would like to attend. For bonus points, include an away game. 1) Oregon State -- A potentially competitive intersectional game with an opponent from a name conference rarely happens anymore, so this would be a good one.
2) Syracuse -- old rival not too hard to get to with a likely layover with family/friends somewhere in Pennsylvania. This would be #1 if they actually played outside, on grass.
3) Michigan -- I love Homecoming and was disappointed I missed it last year. I'm skeptical of the game though.
4) Wisconsin -- I have understand Madison is a great town, particularly in October. I am disappointed I could not take advantage of someone's hospitality there the last two times Penn State played there; that friend finished law school this month and is moving back east.
5) Coastal Carolina -- I love the first game of the season and have never missed it.Penn State hasn't played a team from the Pac 10 in eight years (USC in the 2000 Kick-off Classic). Oregon State adds a little flavor to an otherwise very standard schedule. How do you think this season's matchups compare to prior years? Oregon State replacing Arkansas State improves the schedule dramatically, putting two name teams from BCS conference on it. Syracuse is down, though they doing fine when the schedule was signed, while Oregon State is respectable. I don't have a problem with Temple, since Penn State is doing them a favor by playing them. I am not thrilled about Coastal Carolina though.Night games appear to be a growing trend in the Big Ten. While the 2005 Ohio State game was as good as it gets, the following year's Michigan game seemed overhyped and we all know about last season's Ohio State outcome. This year's Penn State night schedule includes Illinois at home and tough ones in the dark at Wisconsin and at Ohio State. (I'm not sure what to make of the 4:30 kick-off against Michigan) Here is the three-parter: (1)Does this mean that all of our big games will be played at night from here on out? (2)Do you enjoy the 8:00 or still prefer 3:30? and (3)Do you think a night kickoff actually increases home field advantage or does it simply look cooler on TV? 1) If ESPN/ABC gets good ratings, yes.
2) I prefer 3:30. Night games are not worth it unless I can walk to where I am sleeping. Getting out of the parking lot after 1 is no fun, even if only driving to Bellefonte.
3) It gave a home field advantage exactly once, 2005 vs. Ohio State. Since everybody in the Big11Ten plays at night now, it doesn't matter.Lighting Round: How would Penn State finish with Iowa's 2008 schedule (substitute Iowa in place of the obvious difficult situation of playing yourself)? 11-1Which RB gets the most carries this year? The most TDs? Evan Royster. Stephfon Green.How much would you pay for this fall's Michigan ticket? What is the most you've ever paid to attend a PSU game? Face value -- the days of paying a premium for tickets are over for me. I paid $155 for Nebraska tickets because they were part of a tour, but I conveniently "found a place to stay" and I skipped the bus.The ever-growing roundtable: Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
There Is No Name On My Jersey
Tangled Up In White and Blue
The Nittany Notebook
Run Up The Score
Nittany WhiteoutLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 12:02 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: We interupt wall-to-wall Nats coverage for some spring football - William World News
Friday, March 28, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: We interupt wall-to-wall Nats coverage for some spring football
The Blue White game is three weeks from tomorrow and we're already talking football. My head is spinning. Mike from Black Shoe Diaries has this week's questions. Let's start with the ugly news. Chris Baker, Chris Bell, Phil Taylor, Knowledge Timmons, and Navorro Bowman are all sitting out the spring practice sessions. What impact will this have on the 2008 season? I expect some won't be back and that will cost some depth. I just hope the decisions are made before classes end this spring so that the team can move on. When's Baker's trial again?Would you move Sean Lee to middle linebacker like Paul Posluszny in 2006 and Dan Connor in 2007? I expect to see it, just because that seems to be the way they do things now. I think Lee has a bigger upside than Dan Connor in general too. Lee seems to have a little meaner streak than Connor and comes off as more serious. Does it make sense with Chris Colasanti waiting in the wings though?If Lee stays on the outside, who would you start at the other outside linebacker assuming Bowman is out of the picture?
Probably Tyrell Sales, who started most of the games last season.Which position on the field is our weakest link? I am most concerned about the secondary which had been a strength for several years. Justin King is gone and several players are in the doghouse. Plus, the position coach is new, so between that and a lack of depth and to play "prevent" in throughout the game has me worried.Who is your pony in the quarterback contro…uh, competition? My pony is the one who will win the most games. We have such a small sample size of Daryl Clark and no sample size of Pat Devlin to base our opinions on. What I have heard is Clark is a better runner than Devlin, but not by much. Devlin apparently has the better arm. Based on that, I'd lean towards Devlin. Let the best man win the job though.
Name three players that absolutely have to step up their performance this spring? Derrick Williams -- he hasn't lived up to the hype yet and has one more chance
Andrew Quarless -- if he is on the team, he needs to decide he likes football more than alcohol
Joe Paterno -- he needs to spend more time in the Lasch Building making the players afraid of him
Lightning Round Who is your pick to win the Red Worrell award given to the offensive player that shows the most improvement during spring practice?
Dennis Landolt -- Peanut butter jelly time pays off.Who is your pick for the Jim O’Hora award given to the defensive player that shows the most improvement? Marc RubinYour 2008 team captains are…?
Sean Lee
A.Q. Shipley
Derrick Williams
The ever-growing roundtable: The Nittany LineThere Is No Name On My JerseyTangled Up In White and BlueThe Big EleventhThe Nittany NotebookRun Up The ScoreNittany WhiteoutLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 12:23 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: our long national letter of intent day nightmare is over - William World News
Friday, February 15, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: our long national letter of intent day nightmare is over
I tried to put off this BWR as long as I could, because I've never been interested in recruiting and was even less so after I read For the Glory by Ken Denlinger.How well did Penn State address their needs with this recruiting class? I didn't see a lot of skill position players listed, but they got linebackers as always. Really, they need to start playing a 3-8-3 defense or something.Who was the big fish that got away? The kid you really really wish we had landed? I'll dodge this question -- how did it work out for some of the players we were supposed to be heartbroken about losing -- Dan Kendra, Ron Powlus, Kevin Jones or Chad Henne? You could argue that none reached their potential for whatever reason:
Kendra -- KABOOM!
Powlus -- no bowl wins
Jones -- how years did he play at Virginia Tech, two?
Henne -- one bowl less than Anthony Morelli, but there was Tacopants
So, I'm not going to cry about players who might have worn the blue and white.You're NCAA President Miles Brand. Take a break from counting your BCS cash for a minute. What would you do to improve the recruiting process? Tell ESPN that they may need to re-examine certain clauses (I don't think we feel comfortable with certain kinds of advertisers) in their next broadcast agreement and even threaten to go elsewhere. For the smaller operations, threaten to revoke press passes. Also, limit the amount of correspondence that coaches can have with recruits, i.e. one letter or call a week or something.
I do my part by not blogging about recruiting.Now you're Joe Paterno. So I guess prepare to dodge the question. What would you change about Penn State's recruiting strategy? I'd let Tom Bradley and Larry Johnson Sr. use one of the university jets more often.Lightning Round Where will Terrelle Pryor go to school? Or should he just live off the hype for the next few years and directly enter the NFL draft in 2010? Pryor will attend Penn State McKeesport. Really, I have no clue. Which member of this class stands the best chance to make an immediate impact? Someone who can play defensive back.Informed recruiting commentary:
There Is No Name On My Jersey
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
Tangled Up In White and Blue
The Big 11th
Run Up the Score!Labels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 12:53 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Here comes the offseason - William World News
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Blue White Roundtable: Here comes the offseason
Mike from Black Shoe Diaries asked all but the last bonus question this week. I chipped in the last one this morning.Let's start off with a positive note. When you look back on the 2007 season five or ten years from now, what will be your fondest memory? It doesn't necessarily have to be Penn State related. I think I will remember the Iowa game most fondly. We won and there were lots of friends and family to tailgate with before and after the game. Since I missed Homecoming, I don't have a lot of fond memories from the Nittany Lions on the field.What should the Big Ten conference consider as its highest priority this off season? Getting Big11Ten Network available on major cable systems should be the main priority of the conference. I've given up on them improving officiating.Clark or Devlin? Whose camp are you in and why? Unfortunately, I cannot make an informed decision because we've seen so little of each of them. Either way, I think we'll be better off than we were with Anthony Morelli. I think it would be pretty hard for either of these guys to have as many crucial turnovers as Morelli.Which position not including quarterback is your biggest concern looking ahead to 2008? The secondary is my biggest concern. They were good in 2006, but bad in 2007. Hopefully, last season was an aberration.Lightning Round Who is the early favorite to win the Big Ten in 2008? Ohio State because they always are and know how to reload. I think Penn State makes a good run though.How many Fulmer Cup points for Penn State this summer? 4 -- I think they'll get their act together for the most part.Now that the offseason has begun, what will you keep your mind occupied with until fall practice? I believe that college football is meant to help us get over the loss of summer. When football ends, we quickly have Thanksgiving, which helps us get over the loss of college football. December is so busy with the holidays we don't have too much time to miss college football and pro football is actually interesting by then. The bowl games help us get over the end of the holidays. After the bowl game, I start thinking about skiing and followthe Capitals more closely. Once I get my skiing in, I'm ready for spring which leads thoughts of Nationals Opening Day. Then, the Blue White Game gets the football fires burning again, if only for a week. A few weeks after Blue White is the Yurasko Kentucky Derby Party. Then, I'm waiting for the pool to open and watching the Nats when I'm not bicycling. By the end of June, I'm desperate to go down the Shore. When I finally make it down the Shore, I read the Town & Gown Football Annual. The season starts not long after that and the cycle begins anew. The others Run Up the Score!The Nittany LineThere is No Name on My JerseyThe Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2008
posted by WFY @ 12:15 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Alamo Bowl Eve - William World News
Friday, December 28, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Alamo Bowl Eve
This pre-Alamo Bowl edition of Blue White Roundtable features questions from all of us. WFY: Do you think any of the quarterbacks below Anthony Morelli will get any meaningful playing time on Saturday? I don't think either Daryl Clark or Pat Devlin will get much playing time unless Penn State runs it up in the first half or Anthony Morelli gets hurt.The Nittany Notebook: Other than the quarterbacks, what players would you like to see get significant playing time in the game for preparation for 2008? Evan Royster, the next generation of linebackers and probably some DBs.There Is No Name On My Jersey: Will Royster finish the game healthy? If not, how concerned should fans be about the RB position in '08? I will give a Joe Paterno-type answer -- how should I know? I'm not too concerned about the running back position, because the offensive line looks better than it has in a long time.Black Shoe Diaries: Obviously a loss to Texas A&M in the Alamo Bowl would be devastating for the psyche of the program going into the off season. But is there anything good that can come out of beating a middle of the road Big XII team in a non-New Years Day bowl game? Basically, tell me why I should care about this game? I don't think it is devastating to loss to Texas A&M unless they are completely embarrassed. They are basically playing a road game indoors against a team that can beat Texas. A loss could provide a wake-up call to a lot of people and get them to be more motivated for 2008. That being said, I'd prefer a victory. The reason to care about this game is self-evident.The Nittany Line: Will 2008 be JoePa's last year and if so will the old man bow out gracefully or will he be forced out? I don't think it will be his last year because I don't believe either Tim Curley or Graham Spainer has the guts to force Paterno out.
Run Up the Score!: When Joe Paterno finally retires, how long of a leash should the next coach get? What's the standard he'll be judged by, and does your answer depend on whether the new head coach comes from within or outside the program? The next coach should start off with a five year contract and barring any seasons with eight or more losses after year two should be given the opportunity to coach for the duration of the contract. I believe a head coach from inside the program will be judged less harshly than an outsider, even though the opposite should be true.Lightning Round Your Alamo Bowl Prediction?
Penn State 28 Texas A&M 20
Hopefully, we'll be back next week with a post-Alamo Bowl wrap-up.Labels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:07 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Penultimate 2007 edition - William World News
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Penultimate 2007 edition
JB from There's No Name on My Jersey asked this week's questions:
1. PSU is lined up to play Texas A&M in the Alamo Bowl. How are you feeling about the match-up and Penn State's chances?
If Penn State's coaching staff has been subscribing to the right e-mail newsletters (EDSBS), I'm feeling great about this game. Overall, I'm feeling pretty good -- despite the Texas win, I think Texas A&M is probably a lesser opponent. Throw in some coaching upheaval down there and Joe Paterno's high winning percentage in bowl games I am like the Nittany Lions' chances. I'll need to study up on A&M more though.
2. The BCS, fire away.
It is what it is and it won't be changing anytime soon. I'm so myopic about Penn State, I really can't work up the righteous indignation that Georgia or Virgina Tech couldn't get a shot. I feel bad for Hawaii though.
3. Will you be rooting for Tosu in order to help boost the profile of the conference or will you unmitigated hate win out?
I'm in a unique situation when it comes to Ohio State -- my job involves working on a Buckeyes site. It just so happens, I'll be coordinating between that site and one in Louisanna too, so I have to be objective, no?
I guess I'll be rooting for OSU, but I really don't have any loyalty to the conference.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Are you going to the Alamo Bowl?
No, I'll be in Pennsylvania with my in-laws; arrangements are being be made so that we all see the game on the big TV. Yay.
The next bowl game I attend with be the first.
How much PT does Devlin and Clarke see?
A series each, unless Morelli is hurt or Penn State is up by four touchdowns in the 3rd quarter.The other guys!
Black Shoe Diaries
Run Up the Score!
The Nittany Line
The Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 7:43 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: post-tryptophan - William World News
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: post-tryptophan
Galen at The Nittany Line asked the questions and I answered them. It appears that Penn State is a lock for the Alamo Bowl, at this point are you ready to jump on a plane and head to San Antonio or is this game a TiVo moment while you find better things to do like clean the bathroom? The Alamo Bowl? Really? I've seen otherwise from Scout.com and ESPN
If it is the Alamo Bowl, I'll be at my in-laws, who live near Hershey, so I'll be watching it there. I really thought it'd be the Champs Sports Bowl which would mean watching it from my couch after work.
Bowl game aside, I'd probably rather visit San Antonio than Orlando.The rumor mill about the vacant Michigan coaching job is just getting started – who do you think ends up the next Skunkbear's head coach? Les FerentzLast week we had your list of the three players that vastly exceeded your preseason expectations, I'm a pessimistic prick (my friends call me captain morale) so name me the three players you had high preseason expectations for that have totally let you down. Justin King
Justin King
Justin King
I did not have high expectations for Anthony Morelli, merely some expectations. Austin Scott was simply replaced. I guess Andrew Quarless was disappointing too, but King's regression (at best) was just so huge.Lightning Round The BCS is a total mess right now who ends up in the championship game? Either Mizzou or West Virginia vs. Ohio State will be in the Bad College Stupid championship game. People in Ohio seem convinced it is going to happen. Will the BCS shakeup this year finally cause coaches to start pushing for some sort of playoff (I'm looking in your direction SEC)? Maybe a little bit, but it is a moot point for the foreseeable future.In honor of Black Friday, are you the type of guy that a) Christmas shops early and puts a lot of thought into your gifts b) waits until the last minute and buys whatever's left on the shelf c) gets everything from E-bay & Amazon or d) has a significant other that does all the shopping for you (bonus points if that significant other reads your blog)? A little from column a) a little from column c).
More responses:
There Is No Name On My Jersey
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
The Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:01 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Black Wednesday edition - William World News
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Black Wednesday edition
I'm breaking with tradition and posting this in the morning, since many readers may be traveling this afternoon. This week's holiday questions come to us from " where the Diamond meets the Broad" courtesy of Run Up the Score!1. It'll be a week of criticism, so let's at least start off on a positive note. Name three players who have vastly exceeded your pre-season expectations.
Jeremy Boone -- All Big11Ten punter
Rodney Kinlaw -- I didn't think he had a 1,000 yards in him
The offensive line -- not a single player, but seriously, these guys are as solid a line as we've had and none of them were seniors
2. At what point on Saturday did you think that Penn State might be in serious, serious trouble?
The fake punt MSU pulled off. Prior to that, I thought Penn State was just bending too much. Then, I knew crazy old Michigan State was more manic than depressive. I guess I was concerned after the Spartans marched down the field on the first drive, but when PSU responded I was thinking expecting something like the Purdue game.
3. What is your explanation for the four consecutive passes that effectively ended Penn State's comeback attempt? What strategy do you think the coaches were going for?
RUTS suggested that they were trying to make Anthony Morelli a hero and that is pretty logical, even more so than they just panicked in playcalling.
4. What are your thoughts on a contract extension for Joe Paterno? His current contract expires after the 2008 season. Do you think he'll head into that season with his contract status undetermined?
No. They university will extend his contract by no less than two years, probably three. Neither Tim Curley or Graham Spainer is willing to be the guy who "fired" Joe Paterno.
Lightning Round Which potential bowl opponents are the best and worst possible matchups for Penn State in the Alamo or Champs Sports Bowl? I suppose either Virginia Tech or UVa. are the worst for me since I live in Northern Virginia. I'd have to put up with a lot of grief if the Nittany Lions lost to either of them. Of course, if the Nittany Lions won, it'd be pretty sweet.
If Penn State somehow gets the Alamo Bowl and Kansas or Mizzou falls that far it would be very tough. Overall, I'm not looking that far ahead because there are a few games left to decide conference standings.Who is going to sneak into the BCS Championship game?
Either West Virginia or Ohio State. I figure that the winner of the Kansas vs. Mizzou games loses the Big XII championship. It wouldn't shock me if West Virginia lost because that would mean more work for me with the Buckeyes playing for the title again.
Finally, from BSD, which 2007 Penn State loss was the most difficult to swallow?
Michigan -- from the first series on, I was angry. They should have won that game. Illinois was tough too, because there is no way they should have lost, but after the Michigan game, I was already numbed.
More responses:
There Is No Name On My Jersey
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
The Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 6:35 AM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Where'd the season go? - William World News
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Where'd the season go?
Mike from Black Shoe Diaries came up with this week's questions. 1. Why did Temple make our defense look like another MAC team in the first half? The usual, noon start, road game, etc. I also think Temple caught Penn State off guard with their aggressiveness. 2. Should Penn State burn Stephfon Green's redshirt if Evan Royster is inactive for this week? No, line up Derrick Williams in the backfield 5 to 10 times. The difference between the Alamo and Champs Sports Bowls is not worth burning a redshirt. 3. Right now it's looking like Penn State will end up in either the Outback Bowl against an SEC opponent or the Alamo Bowl against a Big XII team. Which possible matchup looks the most intriguing to you? I think the Alamo Bowl is the best case scenario and right now Texas is fourth in the Big XII. Not knowing much about them, I'll have to say that it would be good to renew this intersectional matchup. If by some reason Penn State makes the Outback Bowl, Florida would be a great challenge and Tennessee would be fun to kick around again, though I'd have to favor the Vols in that matchup. Wait, who am I kidding, I'd have to favor almost anyone playing Penn State. If Penn State falls to the Champs Sports Bowl, I'm pretty happy with whomever they play.4. Was Ohio State's loss to Illinois a good thing or bad thing for the Big Ten? Ohio State losing was a bad thing because it puts Michigan in position to win the conference outright this Saturday. Aside from disliking that program and Lloyd Carr, it is pretty embarrassing to have the conference champion be a team that lost to a I-AA school. OSU's loss also made it less likely that Penn State will play in the Outback Bowl. Lightning Round What was up with the bizarre quarterback rotation at the end of the Temple game? I figured it was a way of announcing that it will be an open competition for quarterback next season. It's Michigan State, and technically rivalry week. How bad do you want to beat the Spartans? Make me feel the hate. Sorry, I can't do it. Despite some good games with Michigan State over the years, I can't hate them. Let me just say that I'm really sick of hearing about Pitt too.Run Up the Score!The Nittany LineThe Nittany NotebookThere is No Name on My JerseyLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:15 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Going to Temple on Saturday - William World News
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Going to Temple on Saturday
I asked the questions this week: 1.) Please elaborate on whether you come away from the Purdue game encouraged or discouraged about the Nittany Lions? With the exception of the kickoff coverage, I'm encouraged by the Nittany Lions victory. They overcame a typical sluggish start, didn't panic and kept Purdue out of the endzone the rest of the game. Yes, it did take a minor miracle from Sean Lee (fumble at the goal line) but after that Penn State did what it had to do to win. The play calling was quite good too. They also benefited from some mental lapses by Purdue and some poor officiating. 2.) Who was a better linebacker at this point in their junior seasons, Sean Lee, Dan Connor or Paul Posluszny? This is a tough one because you can't go wrong with any of them. I would have to give it to Posluszny though, he was more dominant and scared more people than Lee or Connor. Posluszny simply had the complete all-around package too.3.) How much of a fight do you expect Temple to put up since this their biggest home game in forever-and-a-day? Does Temple (3-6) have a shot at winning? Are you going to be at the game in Philadelphia? I expect Temple to put up quite a fight in the first half; they will be going hard on every play and playing with focus. I don't see them being in awe of the Nittany Lions and they should be extra motivated since their coach, Al Golden, is a former Penn Stater. That being said, I full expect Penn State to win by at least two touchdowns simply because of superior athletes and depth. Temple will be gassed by the third quarter and Penn State will break away then. The only way Temple can win is if Penn State turns the ball over a lot, a possibility, particularly with bad weather.
I'll be at the game in section 105, having apparently overpaid for tickets months ago. That's okay because the game is closer to where I live than State College; up and down I-95 and no Port Matilda or Lewistown Narrows! I may finally crash visit the 2theLion tailgate too. By the way, if you don't have tickets, there may still be some available.Lightning round Are you a fan of the Patriot-News sportswriter videos? I really enjoy watching Bob Flounders playing the straightman to Dave Jones. When Nick Horvath, Jr. replaces Jones, the energy level goes way down though.Which basketball team will have a better season, the men or the women? I think the men will hae a better year, just because Rene Portland left the cubbard kind of bare.Do you wear a Penn State jersey to games? If so, what number and why? I wear a blue #11 for home games and white #12 on the road. I've always liked #11 and was pleased when LaVar Arrington made #11 a hot jersey. My jersey is a Russell Athletic with tackle twill numbers bought for me from Lion's Pride for Christmas in 1999 (thanks Mom & Dad!). I bought my #12 in summer 2001 for about $10 on the clearance rack at UBC, along with a blue #12 and #20 (which my wife wore until I bought her a woman's cut #31). I would like a white #11.
Prior to those jerseys, I wore blue #14 (my Todd Blackledge jersey) and white #43. I really shouldn't wear numbers higher than #19 though, because they are too big on me.Check out how the the others answered the questions: Black Shoe DiariesRun Up the Score!The Nittany LineThere is No Name on My JerseyThe Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007, Video
posted by WFY @ 12:08 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Look out for #1 - William World News
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Look out for #1
This week's questions come from Galen at The Nittany Line. 1) Will the loss of Hahn and/or Odrick have a big impact on either the offense in Hahn's case, or the defense in Odrick's case? This hard to say because fullbacks have not been a big part of Penn State's offense for some time now. The defensive line seems to be doing an alright to excellent job regardless of who is in there, so I'm going to say we'll miss Matt Hahn more -- he was having the game of his life before he got injured and was making a strong case to be included more.2) Has Anthony Morelli redeemed himself in your eyes? He's had two really bad games this year, some decent ones, but not a breakout one. Much like Luke Skywalker needing to defeat Darth Vader to become a jedi, Morelli needs to beat a higher ranked team to get out of the doghouse.3) Is the offensive play calling where you want it to be now or do we still need help? The playcalling has been better, but I think they have to start throwing to the tight ends. A dink and dunk attack is almost as good as a strong running game. They also have to keep calling plays in the second half the way they do in the first.LIGHTNING ROUND Are you lucky enough to have scored tickets this week? Yes. Someone I bought tickets from six years ago has always kept me in her "we can't go to these games" preseason emails. Within five minutes of her offering these tickets (in SEU, 80s!) this August, I had already replied and gotten a confirmation that I "won" them. Bless her.Which Ohio State offensive player scares you the most? Brian Robeskie I guess. His dad is a wide receivers coach in the NFL and briefly led the Redskins after they fired Norv Turner. Robeskie is the best they've got.For the game Saturday are you : giddy, apprehensive, or on suicide watch? Giddy. I don't' have any strong feelings yet on the outcome, I'm just excited to be going at this point. I might be more excited if I hadn't messed up my left leg playing flag football though.
What everyone else is saying:
Black Shoe Diaries
Run Up the Score!
Nittany Notebook
There is No Name on My JerseyLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:05 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Bloomington is more isolated than State College - William World News
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Bloomington is more isolated than State College
Run up the Score! has this week's questions. 1. Two consecutive games, two dominating performances by the Nittany Lion running game. Why the drastic change in production? Several things happened -- Deadwood Austin Scott got himself kicked off the team (though he should have been benched for good), Rodney Kinlaw turned a switch on, Evan Royster got some carriers, the offensive line gelled and perhaps most of all, they faced weaker defensive lines.2. Since the departure of Tom Osborne before the 1998, Nebraska quickly fired Frank Solich, hired a bad NFL coach, and on Monday fired its Athletic Director. Is there any way to avoid this sort of fiasco when Joe Paterno eventually retires? I don't see Penn State spending the money for a big name NFL coach, so that point is moot. They will most likely stay within the family which could mean the current staff or someone who has played or coached at Penn State previously. Tim Curley will probably be the AD until he reaches retirement age and then move into a cushy fundraising position or something similar. Outside of a scandal, I don't see Penn State being in any hurry to replace him.3. Terrelle Pryor is on the verge of crossing Penn State off his list, if he hasn't already. Does Penn State absolutely have to sign a quarterback in this class, or can we afford to wait until next season?
Probably, but I am not going to use any energy in worrying about it.Lightning Round Describe a scenario in which Penn State ties for the conference title. Obviously, Penn State has to beat Ohio State. What other dominoes need to fall? Winning out is necessary, obviously. Ohio State has to lose elsewhere, Michigan needs to lose twice and everything else has to break just right. It isn't impossible, but seems unlikely.Will Penn State have its typical lazy start in a noon road game? I think they'll do a little better than normal and maybe get a field goal on their first possession.Score prediction?
30-19 Penn State. Indiana gets a lot of yardage as the Nittany Lions defense bends but doesn't break and gives up field goals.More responses:
There Is No Name On My Jersey
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
The Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:31 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Has anybody noticed it is Homecoming? - William World News
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Has anybody noticed it is Homecoming?
There is No Name on my Jersey has this week's questions. Criminal allegations swirl around the squad; what impact will this have on the team? My own fall off of my high-horse-of-PSU's-sterling-reputation has been terrible, have you experienced the same?
I don't know what it will mean for the team, they didn't seem bothered by last week's distraction. The alleged road rage incident involving Joe Paterno is the most troubling.
If I was ever on a high horse about Penn State's reputation I haven't been in a long time, certainly not since the Meridian altercation, but probably since Curtis Enis went shopping.Evan Royster provided Penn State with the Spark it needed to get going on Saturday, did he win himself the starting job? If not, how does your depth chart read at RB and why? No, Royster hasn't played enough to earn a starting job yet, but he deserves more carries and should get them. If he continues to play this well, he'll get the bulk of the carries in November. Rodney Kinlaw looked pretty good last week too. Stephfon Green would be third on the chart, but hopefully won' t be needed.Anthony Morelli gets it done while looking both awful and excellent in the same game. What the hell is PSU supposed to do at QB? Penn State is suppossed to develop quarterbacks who don't get their biggest applause for throwing the ball out of bounds to avoid a sack.Lightning Round What games are you watching on Saturday? Hopefully Penn State vs. Wisconsin. I have a family obligation that day, but maybe I'll get to see the second half. I'll be taping it too.What are your predictions for the second half of the season? Mediocrity will prevail.Who will be PSU's MVP come January? Dan ConnorMore responses:
Run Up the Score!
Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
The Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:17 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Time for some home cooking - William World News
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Time for some home cooking
Once again it is time for Blue White Roundtable. Mike from Black Shoe Diaries came up with this week's questions. 1. Besides the fact that we're 3-2, what has been the biggest disappointment this year? Anthony Morelli is a huge disappointment. He has regressed as a quarterback and the indications are he was never a leader. I am not oppossed to him being benched this week, unlike Joe Paterno. At the very least, he should be on a very short leash. 2. After the Michigan game the play calling was under heavy scrutiny against Illinois. Late in the third quarter with Penn State trailing by seven points, the Nittany Lions had a third and goal from the one yard line. They elected to pitch the ball to Rodney Kinlaw over left tackle and the play lost two yards. Then on fourth and goal from the three they elected to kick a field goal. How would you evaluate the play calling on these two plays? Oh all the times to call a pitch, this was not the ideal one. I have hard time getting too upset because it is reasonable for the defense to expect a run up the middle. I also don't mind the field goal attempt because going down there and getting nothing would be even more demoralizing I think. 3. Is there anything positive we can take out of the Illinois game? The defense adjusted well after the half. Jeremey Boone is a good punter who will will some games for PSU down the road. LIGHTNING ROUND Who should be the starting quarterback against Iowa? This is a moot point since Morelli is the starter as long as he has eligibility and is healthy. I think the better question is what quarterback should go in his place in event of injury, Daryl Clark or Pat Devlin. Joe Must Go! Yes or No? I sound like Jesse Jackson -- the point is moot, he's here for as long as he wants to be. Iowa Prediction? Bounce back win, not pretty and led by the defense who scores at least once. Let's say 20-12Check out what others are saying:
Run Up the Score!
The Nittany Line
There is No Name on My Jersey
The Nittany NotebookLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:11 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Michigan Hangover - William World News
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Michigan Hangover
Another year, another Michigan loss. Like 2005, the Nittany Lions follow the Michigan loss by heading to Illinois to take on the Illini. This week's questions are from Alex Grier of The Nittany Notebook. Check out what Run Up the Score!, There is No Name on My Jersey, Black Shoe Diaries, and The Nittany Line had to say. 1. The offense looked pathetic against Michigan. Is there any hope that Penn State's offense can at least play respectably the rest of the season? Yes, there is hope for the offense because they won't play as tight at home and when facing weaker competition. I do not expect the combination of bad game planning and fumblitis to converge quite as well (or badly) as it did last Saturday. For a few weeks at least.2. You can lay the blame for the loss to Michigan on one person. Who gets it?
Beano Cook -- he cursed us again. No wait, Lou Holtz.
The real culprit is Joe Paterno for another bland, predictable game plan. I can't help but wonder if he and the coaching staff even watched film on Michigan. The first series assured me that he doesn't have the stomach for attacking the opposition on the road, if even at home. I've been told he wasn't always this determined to win or lose by a touchdown. He said he was going to put people in the best position to succeed and didn't do it. I don't see how anything less than a coaching change will change that situation.3. Penn State plays Illinois in a tough road test this weekend. What kind of performance do you expect from Penn State on Saturday?
I expect a victory based on the fact the Nittany Lions are more experienced and have great depth. The defense should carry them as they may be a little angry. I also expect a bounce back game from Anthony Morelli.Lightning Round: After that performance against Michigan what is your new record prediction and bowl game for Penn State? I'm sticking with 11-2 and a New Year's Day bowl game. Who starts at tailback against the Illini? Austin Scott, but Rodney Kinlaw gets a lot of reps. Evan Royster will not see a lot of time.Score prediction for the Illinois game. Penn State 27 Illinois 13When does A.J. Wallace finally supplant Lydell Sargeant as the other starting CB? After Sargeant graudates or gets hurt.Labels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:10 PM |
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# posted by :
Thursday, September 27, 2007 10:36:00 AM
Blue White Roundtable has scurvy - William World News
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Blue White Roundtable has scurvy
One-Eyed Willie's scurvy be lettin' up, so he has volunteered t' answer this week's questions. 1. Reportedly, Penn State is playing some school in a mitten-shaped state this weekend. Are any of you actually optimistic for the Michigan game? I not optimistic at all about Saturday's game. Over t' last ten years, Penn State has found seemin'ly every way t' lose t' Michigan. If it were at home, I might be, but Cap'n Paterno coaches too conservatively on t' road.2. Okay, we all know that Penn State has lost eight straight games against Michigan since 1997. Plenty of PSU fans blame the coaches' offensive game planning, calling it predictable and bland. Fair criticism? If the definition of "insane" is repeating the same act over and over again and expecting a different result, does this make our coaching staff absolutely crazy? I kind o' get t' feelin' these might be loaded questions matey. me answer t' both questions: Aye.3. List three things Penn State absolutely must do in order to finally beat Michigan. Blitz t' quarteraft
Send t' wideouts on routes all over t' field, not just t' sidelines plunder their treaayeWould you rather be facing a one-legged Henne or a two-legged Mallett this weekend? What we know o' Henne, I think I'd rather see him with a pegleg than an unknown. H'ever, a peglegged Henne could 'come in a two-legged Mallett. Either way, t' defense better blitz often. Henne be merely a good quarteraft benefitin' from a strong runnin' game.Your score prediction? Penn State 20
Michigan 22Do you see any upsets on the Big Ten horizon this week? Iowa may try t' shiver Wisky's timbers, but I see no plunderin' ahead. Penn State, football, Talk Like a Pirate DayLabels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007, Whiskey-Tango-Foxtrot
posted by WFY @ 4:48 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: Have you tried the buffalo? - William World News
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: Have you tried the buffalo?
It is my turn to write the questions this week. Go see how The Nittany Line, Black Shoe Diaries, There Is No Name On My Jersey, Run Up The Score! and The Nittany Blog answered them. 1.) Thus far the defense has given up three points (on a short field) in two games. Have they proved that they are an elite unit or are they still untested? They are definitely good, but we won't know if they are elite until we get into October. Neither of the teams they have faced so far have much offense to speak of, so the results are a little skewed. Seriously though, I am really impressed with the young defensive line so far, I think they have exceeded expectations. I'm eager to see the how they perform against a complete team.2.) Anthony Morelli made a great throw to Chris Bell for 51 yards but also fumbled and was picked off twice. How concerned are you about him as the starting quarterback? I'm trying to rationalize to myself that Michael Robinson was driving all of us nuts until the Minnesota game in 2005, so maybe that is the case with Morelli too. However, Morelli is not Robinson, who was an very special athlete and one of the best leaders to ever play for Penn State.
Like Wally Richardson, Morelli is probably held to a higher standard than most because of the standard set by his immediate predecessor. I'm still concerned though because of the way he played at the end of the first half.3.) Don't look now, but this week's opponent Buffalo dropped 42 on Temple this past Saturday. Granted Temple is awful, but should we be concerned at all?
I don't think we should be too concerned, because I think Michigan's loss to Appalachian State is still fresh in the minds of all college football teams. My biggest concerns are injuries and whether the offense can get any rhythm and not just rely on superior athleticism.LIGHTING ROUNDWhere you at the game? If so, does the atmosphere stand up to other big games like Nebraska in 2002, Ohio State in 2005, etc.? I wasn't at the game, so I can't say for sure what the atmosphere was like. It would be pretty hard to top either of the games I mentioned and I don't think it did based on what I saw on TV. My favorite Beaver Stadium experience is still the 4th quarter of the 1997 Ohio State game.Do you think Jimmy Clausen will be a good QB? Yes, he didn't get rattled by a tough crowd and a swarming defense. I can't decide if genius Charlie Weis was being pragmatic or defeatist with his gameplan that didn't give Clausen a chance to succeed or fail. I'm thinking the latter.Do you work with any Notre Dame fans? If so, what kind of mood where they in on Monday morning? REDACTED! I don't work with any Notre Dame fans, but on Sunday morning, while I was at the Harris Teeter deli counter, a young woman saw my Penn State jersey and made a face that indicated she was appalled. She then moved away. The next time I passed her in the store, she mad the same face. Given how uncomfortable she looked, I choose to believe she was a Notre Dame fan.Labels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:10 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: I need a miracle! - William World News
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: I need a miracle!
This week Nick from The Nittany Line asked the questions. Black Shoe Diaries, There Is No Name On My Jersey and Run Up The Score! have the answers too. The Nittany Blog also makes its BWR debut. Which is worse: having your parachute fail to open while skydiving or losing to Appalachian State? The parachute not opening is worse, but barely. While I enjoy laughing at Michigaan, I just think it will make losing to them even worse.
Is it too early to worry about the running game? It isn't too early to worry about the running game. I am skeptical Penn State can beat better teams by relying on Anthony Morelli who is a pure pocket quarterback; that isn't enough these days. I like to think Penn State could pass to set up the run, because I don't think Joe Paterno is comfortable putting games in the hands of a quarterback.
Is just a win enough to satisfy you this weekend against Notre Dame or are there qualifiers on a victory to make it acceptable? While Dan Connor and Sean Lee picking up Jimmy Clausen to "make a wish" sounds great, a win is enough to satisfy me against Notre Dame -- just get it done. That is probably how I feel about most of the conference games too. I was unsatisfied by the Florida Intramural1 win though, the running game has me very concerned and it is hard to be satisfied when you play someone with no chance to win.
I would really enjoy a Nebraska 2002 style beat down on Saturday though. I want losers like this one to suffer. Got a ticket, praying for a ticket, or watching the game somewhere else this weekend? I don't have any tickets for the game. I'd love to be there, but I can't break the bank to do it. My wife and I plan on watching it from my couch on my 19 inch TV. We'll have our usual tailgate foods and beverages as
well.What non-PSU game are you looking forward to this weekend? Non-PSU game? There are others? If anyone probably Virginia Tech vs. LSU, but I tend to get so into the Penn State game that I need to chill out and get away from football when it is over.
1My wife Erica came up with this on Sunday.Labels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:09 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: 72 hours to go! - William World News
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: 72 hours to go!
We are are about 72 long hours from kickoff of the 2007 Penn State season. Please try to keep yourself busy and productive during this agonizing wait. This week Run Up The Score! asked the questions. Black Shoe Diaries, The Nittany Line, and There Is No Name On My Jersey have the answers too. 1. Our long national nightmare is over -- football season has returned! The Nittany Lions take on the Golden Panthers of Florida International University this Saturday. FIU was 0-12 last season, with losses to such powerhouse programs as Middle Tennessee State, Arkansas State, and Florida Atlantic. There's no question that Penn State will win, but what are you hoping to see PSU accomplish against FIU? Aside from not getting injured, what can the Nittany Lions do that will make you say, "Okay, that's something we can build on for next week against Notre Dame"? I want to see Anthony Morelli and the wideouts establish good timing. Once that is accomplished (hopefully in the second quarter) I want to see Penn State pound the ball up the gut about 45 times. I want the line to get cohesive and keep the defensive off the field. I am concerned about how thin the defensive line is right now.
What I don't want to see are a lot of any reverses or gimmick plays. Those tend to work against non-cons, but don't against the top half of the Big11Ten, so what's the point of running them?2. Not every Big Ten team has a functional bye week. Take a look at this week's schedule. Who is most likely to suffer an upset? Probably Iowa because I don't think any D-IA team beating Indiana is an upset. Northwestern wouldn't get beaten by Northeastern would it? I guess Toledo over Purdue isn't far fetched either. The funniest would be UAB over Michigan State because of what that sports radio host who had the Teddy Ruxpin meltdown might say. 3. How are you affected by the squabbles between the Big Ten Network and Comcast? Who is The Bad Guy in this battle? If you're stuck in a situation where you won't be at the game and can't get the broadcast at your house, what are your plans for Saturday at noon? The Big11Ten is the villain here, they have a good deal with ESPN/ABC that the fans were happy with despite Pam Ward broadcasting games. When sports teams/conferences start their own networks, the fans lose for a while. Comcast really blundered with the astroturf lobbying though, but that is what Comcast does, even when they are right, they screw up.
Here in greater D.C. we will never get Big11Ten Network on basic cable because it is a Midwestern sports conference. Sure Big11Ten alums are well-represented here, but there simply aren't enough to warrant any kind of groundswell for the channel. Specificallly, I think this impasse will result in more people, including me, going to the Penn State DC chapter viewing parties. I'll probably have to do that for the Buffalo game and most of the road games. At least Notre Dame is a national telecast. By the way, anybody have an extra pair of tickets for Saturday? My email address is at the bottom of the post.Lightning RoundIf things go as planned, everyone on the PSU could see significant playing time on Saturday. Who will be the leading rusher, receiver, and passer for Penn State? Austin Scott, Jordan Norwood, Anthony Morelli. Predict the score of the PSU vs. FIU game. 41-16 -- Late score by FIU on tired PSU D-line.What non-PSU game are you most looking forward to this weekend? I have too much myopia to care about other games, but Cal beating Tennessee would be pretty cool. I'm on a distribution list that includes a rabid Tennessee fan who is really paranoid and whiny. Let's just say the Kirk Herbstreit mancrush on Penn State and the Big11Ten didn't go over well with Rocky Top boy, who is still smarting from the Outback Bowl. He doesn't deserve a winning team.Labels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:03 PM |
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Blue White Roundtable: The Debut - William World News
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Blue White Roundtable: The Debut
I've been accepted into the premier weekly bloggers discussion of Penn State football, Blue White Roundtable. Right now it is a group of including four other bloggers, Black Shoe Diaries, The Nittany Line, There Is No Name On My Jersey and Run Up The Score. JB of TINNOMY has this week's questions. 1. We'll start with the bad news, what is your take on PSU's off-season. The team has stated they are focusing on winning a National Title, will these off-field shenanigans get in the way of that lofty goal? I'm sure Joe Paterno would agree with me when I say "talk is cheap." The brawl still troubles me, but I am also little concerned about Andrew Quarless. I think it will work itself out unless he turns into E.Z. Smith and gets caught again (by the same cop, one week later). This is a tougher than average year for captains because of Patenro's stadium cleaning punishment. I have a feeling it will either bond the team together or tear it apart. If the Nittany Lions every needed a Michael Robinson-type as captain, this is the year. I don't see that coming from Anthony Morelli and I'm not sure about Dan Connor. I have a feeling Terrell Golden will bear this burden more than the other two. Given that he doesn't even play, he must be a heck of a leader. 2. Competition abounds! Give you take on the battle to start in the secondary. Do you prefer to have a rowdy competition or know who your guys will be?Rowdy competition seems to work OK for USC. With the young defensive line, having a strong nickel package is going to be pretty important in the early part of the season, especially during the Michigan game. Plus, it isn't unheard of for speed guys to tweak their hamstrings. What we really need is rowdy competition on the offensive line. 3. Describe your behavior as a PSU fan. I know some who are hand-wringing-nervous-pacers and others who are drunken-revelers-before-the-football-gods; where do you fit? Before the game, I'm wound up, but jovial. I tend to consume a lot of beverages too, alternating between beer, Pepsi and water. During the game, I'm biting my nails and probably talking too much. After the game, I'm pretty mellow. 4. White Out, friend or foe? (I think the white-out is awesome but the blue unis are great! how do you reconcile this conundrum?)Foe for the stadium-wide White Out. I think it works okay for the students, but if everybody does it on Sept. 8 it could backfire. I imagine the subway alumni (don't get me started) will all wear green and stick out a lot. It is probably a moot point for me since I don't have tickets. I would have worn blue. 5. Who would you rather punch in the face: Lee Corso, Mark May, Lou Holtz, or Charlie Weiss? Weiss and his legions of talking heads who continue to lavish praise on him. As a head coach, he has accomplished less than Bobby Williams and John L. Smith who have both won bowl games. Corso doesn't bother me because he is a clown and knows it. Holtz is a goofball too and I can't get mad about Mark May because he had the benefit of being paired with Trev Albert. Anybody looks intelligent next to Trev. I wouldn't want to literally punch any of them because they are all bigger than me. Well, Holtz probably isn't bigger than me and he is about 105 years old. Labels: Blue White Roundtable, PSU Football 2007
posted by WFY @ 12:20 PM |
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William F. & William R. Yurasko
December 20, 2009
Alexandria, Va.
Photo by Erica Yurasko
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# posted by
PSUgirl :
Thursday, December 10, 2009 1:55:00 PM