Welcome to the my Web site, v. XII. The blog is typically published Monday - Saturday. My primary topics tend to be the Nats, Penn State (esp. football), BeltwayLand, transportation, media, photos and more. The rest of the site gets updated as warranted and is noted on the blog.
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Penn State has capped its thrilling 2008 season by earning its 22nd Top 10 ranking under Coach Joe Paterno.
The Nittany Lions (11-2) were No. 8 in the final Associated Press and USA Today Coaches polls, which were released early this morning. Penn State earned its 34th final Top 25 ranking under the Hall of Fame coach.
I have no problem finishing 8th, but I do have a problem finishing behind TCU. T-C-freaking-U??? Come on! They did NOT even win their own conference. And PSU played (arguably) the best team in the country on their home field! The voters are morons.
# posted by TMBC :
Friday, January 09, 2009 2:50:00 PM
Revisiting 2008 PSU football predictions - William World News
Monday, January 05, 2009
Revisiting 2008 PSU football predictions
Only two sportswriters correctly predicted Penn State's final record this season.
11-2
Frank Bodani - YDR Andy Elder - Blue White Illustrated
The rest of us were off, but none by more than two games. I missed too, giving them one less win than they earned. I was pleasantly surprised. Here are the rest:
10-3
Mark Brennan - Fight On State Matt Herb - Football Annual Beth Hudson - The Morning Call Derek Levarse - Football Annual David Pencek - Football Annual Chris Morelli - Blue White Illustrated Neil Rudel - Altoona Mirror Rich Scarcella - Reading Eagle
9-4
Jeff Byers - Fight On State Neil Geoghegan - Journal Register News Service Cory Giger - Altoona Mirror Rob Riva - Fight On State Mark Wogenrich - The Morning Call
The bright side: Penn State scored one more point than I predicted.
I was shocked that Penn State was so unprepared -- so many mental errors. When was the last time that Penn State was penalized that much?
Somebody finally figured out to attack the Nittany Lions secondary. That unit needs a major upgrade, so that maybe Tom Bradley won't feel the need to play 10 yards off the line.
How did USC lose to Oregon State?
Why no on-side kicks in the fourth quarter?
Why a field goal instead of going for six?
I appreciated the Nittany Lions pulling it together in the second half and getting several scores. They did not quit, good for them.
Sadly, a healthy Evan Royster would not have made that big a difference I think.
The offensive line, Penn State's best in over a decade, did not look too good yesterday.
QB Daryll Clark had a solid outing and will hopefully learn from it.
I am really going to miss Derrick Williams, Deon Butler and Jordan Norwood. Those three provided four excellent years of football. Hopefully they have not played their last games. I know Williams has not and think Butler can get a job in the NFL. Norwood? I don't know.
So, how far did Aaron Maybin's draft status fall yesterday? I want him back.
I won't miss Anthony Scirriotto at all. That he never missed game time for his stupidity on April 1, 2007 is a major error by Joe Paterno. I won't miss watching Scirriotto get beat deep any more. Good riddance, jerk!
I thought the officiating was poor and favored USC, but ultimately, it was about 0.05% of the reason Penn State lost.
Overall, this was a shockingly good season. I figured replacing Anthony Morelli was +2 wins, but losing Sean Lee was -1. Had Lee been healthy, they would be playing in the BCS title game, though they would not have necessarily fared better than they did yesterday. Still, a Big11Ten title is a lot to be proud of, especially since they exorcised their Michigan and Columbus demons. Apparently, the big one left is Iowa.
Penn State vs. USC prediction - William World News
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Penn State vs. USC prediction
This is a tough one to predict and I don't have much of a feeling for it. That being said, I think Penn State and USC match up very well against each other. I was hoping for more "Penn State doesn't even belong here talk" but I think there may be enough to motivate the Nittany Lions. Keeping that in mind, along with a special, focused senior class, and Joe Paterno's strong record in bowl games (approx .667 winning percentage) I am picking Penn State to win.
Maybin 1st team AP All American - William World News
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Maybin 1st team AP All American
Four Nittany Lions named AP All-Americans - AP/Patriot-News Sophomore DE Aaron Maybin is on the AP All America Football Team. Sadly, Bob Hope is dead, so there is no Christmas special for him. Nevertheless, he earned it with a great season. Hopefully, he won't go pro after this and come back next year. Think of how scary this front 7 could get with another year of him and Sean Lee returning. Remember, Maybin became a starter after Maurice Evans was suspended for being at a party that was busted.
C A.Q. Shipley was on the second team. RG Rich Orhnberger and "all-purpose" Derrick Williams were on the third team.
When Clark suffered a concussion in the fourth quarter against Ohio State, Devlin took over and led the trailing Lions to the winning touchdown when he plunged 1 yard into the end zone. Before leaving the game, Clark had struggled a bit, and Devlin felt as if his performance had cracked open the quarterback competition, the source said.
The Lions were idle the next week and Clark was cleared to play against the Hawkeyes on Nov. 8. Fearing the mobile junior could suffer another head injury, however, Penn State included the "Wildcat" formation in its game plan to alleviate some of the pressure on the QB.
In the formation, wide receiver Derrick Williams received direct snaps from center, but Clark had his worst game as Penn State suffered its first loss, 24-23, ending its national-title hopes.
A source close to Devlin said he could not understand why he wasn't inserted as Clark and the offense sputtered in the second half.
I can understand Devlin feeling snubbed, but expecting the quarterback competition to be reopened based on less than a half of play? Give me a break! Devlin brought the Lions back from a 6-3 deficit. Three points. How many programs do you think would bench their incumbent after a 8-0 start based on a three point comeback? That shows Devlin was kind of delusional and frankly makes me question his mental toughness. His departure leaves a hole in the depth chart, but maybe we're better off in the long run.
If memory serves, he passed the ball a whopping....ONE time in the Ohio State game. Yes, it got us a first down due to the interfernece, but come on. I'm sure a healthy Clark could have made the QB sneak as well.
I think Devlin could have helped in the Iowa game. But, iff the shoe were on the other foot, would Devlin think it was fair that the QB job get opened up due to one bad half of play?
# posted by TMBC :
Friday, December 12, 2008 9:11:00 AM
According to a source close to (Joe) Paterno, Devlin, along with his parents, Mark and Connie, visited with the 81-year-old coach on Monday to express their displeasure over their son's situation. The Devlins brought with them a list of issues they had about Penn State's handling of their son.
By the end of the meeting, Pat Devlin had informed Paterno that he was leaving, the source said. With one game to play, however, Devlin's decision over whether he would play in the Jan. 1 Rose Bowl against Southern Cal was left dangling.
Yesterday, according to another source close to the team, Paterno asked Devlin if he had reached a verdict. The sophomore said he had not. Paterno made the decision for him, and by the end of the day, Devlin's locker was cleaned out.
I wonder what those issues were that caused Devlin to transfer, perhaps Daryll Clark leading the team to 11-1 was the biggest issue. I kind of like that JoePa made the Rose Bowl decision for him, that could be an ongoing distraction.
This is going to bring out the haters:
The source said Devlin was never comfortable with quarterbacks coach Jay Paterno and relied more on the advice of wide receivers coach and former Penn State quarterback Mike McQueary and offensive coordinator Galen Hall.
"The relationship was never forged with him and his quarterbacks coach," said Mike Matta, Devlin's coach at Downingtown East.
A message left with Jay Paterno was not returned last night.
Jay Paterno quieted a lot of criticism this season, particularly early, with Clark looking so good. However, there is a great deal skepticism about the younger Paterno. I wonder if JayPa was giving Clark all of his attention. I am not as wary about JayPa, but still, one has to wonder.
There is a gaping hole on the depth chart now, next year and especially in 2010 after Clark is done. Penn State really needs to recruit quarterbacks now. I am still not going to blog about recruiting though.
Apparently, we are going to learn more over the next couple of days, but Jeff Maclean, the beat writer who got the big story says in a blog post this morning:"It appears neither side wanted this, but egos and agendas got in the way and one thing led to another and Devlin was gone. Too bad, really. I'll have more as the day progresses, but a full story will be in tomorrow's paper."
Oh great, a distraction for the Rose Bowl. Thankfully, this happened this early and not right before they leave for Pasadena.
It looks like backup QB Pat Devlin has left Penn State (Fight on State) with aspirations of heading to a Division 1-A (actually Football Championship Subdivision) program. That frees him up to start for two seasons somewhere else instead of one at Penn State after Daryll Clark runs out of eligibility.
Devlin lost out to Clark in preseason for the #1 job. Clark went on to lead the Nittany Lions to 11-1 record, starting off very strong but cooling later in the year. Devlin got a decent amount of playing time for a backup and took over in the Ohio State game, leading Penn State to the winning touchdown.
Penn State is now two-deep at quarterback for the Rose Bowl with Paul Cianciolo becoming the backup.
So, I guess there was truth to a lot of those rumors about Devlin leaving if he did not win out. There will be some angry people, despite Clark going 11-1 as a starter this season. I am disappointed in this news as Devlin would have been just a snap away from being the #1 QB.
This is bad for Penn State, but probably a good career move for Devlin. I cannot blame him. He wants to play, and one year is probably not enough if he wants to make it to the pros. Priority #1 now in the recruiting season is to recruit a decent QB. Being one play away was a nice luxury for Penn State but not the way Devlin wants to crack the lineup.
# posted by TMBC :
Thursday, December 11, 2008 9:48:00 AM
Off topic, but I heard on the radio yesterday that Akron has been "selected" as PSU's opponent to open the 2009 campaign. However, on Penn State website, the opponent for the Sept 5 contest is still listed as TBA. Can you shed any light?
# posted by TMBC :
Thursday, December 11, 2008 9:56:00 AM
I had not heard that TMBC, but it better be true because my brother's hopes will be way up now. If it turns out Penn State is not playing the Zips, he will be devastated.
# posted by WFY :
Thursday, December 11, 2008 12:02:00 PM
Here's the best reference I could find, from the Altoona Mirror:
# posted by TMBC :
Thursday, December 11, 2008 12:20:00 PMPost a Comment
Williams team MVP; other Nittany Lion award winners - William World News
Williams team MVP; other Nittany Lion award winners
Williams wins MVP - CDT The State College Quarterback Club season-ending awards were given out to the Nittany Lions last night. Derrick Williams won the Hall Foundation Award as outstanding player. Other awards:
Richard Maginnis Memorial Award (outstanding offensive lineman) — senior center A.Q. Shipley; John Bruno, Jr. Memorial Award (outstanding member of special teams) — senior kicker Kevin Kelly; Ridge Riley Award (senior for “sportsmanship, scholarship, leadership and friendship”) senior tackle Gerald Cadogan; Robert B. Mitinger, Jr. Award (senior who exhibits courage, character and social responsibility) — senior wide receivers Deon Butler and Jordan Norwood; Quarterback Club Special Awards — senior cornerback Tony Davis and senior defensive end and co-captain Josh Gaines; Walk-on Award (walk-on player(s) who exemplifies total commitment, loyalty, hard work and courage) — senior tight end Greg Miskinis.
3rd-string QB Paul Cianciolo won the first Football Letterman’s Club Joe and Sue Paterno Post-Graduate Scholarship.
# posted by dl004d :
Wednesday, December 10, 2008 9:51:00 AM
You said her name, now I'm going to be deluged with sideline reporter fetishists visiting the site.*
How did I bash her?
Perhaps I could have been clearer, but I have a feeling that a number of people will quite annoyed with the sideline reporter assignments in terms of who is on the radio and who is on television.
*Not to be confused with ESPN Radio producer and former Penn State & Maryland beat writer fetishists.
# posted by WFY :
Wednesday, December 10, 2008 12:23:00 PM
Post a CommentBad news for Rose Bowl groundskeepers - William World News
Bad news for Rose Bowl groundskeepers
Paterno on Rose Bowl sidelines? - Lion Eyes, The Inky Joe Paterno plans to be on the sidelines. He is still getting used to his new hip, so he'll probably walk only 4 miles instead of five on Jan. 1. The trench Paterno leaves behind should not be as deep as last time.
It is all but official: Penn State vs. USC in the Rose Bowl - William World News
Sunday, December 07, 2008
It is all but official: Penn State vs. USC in the Rose Bowl
No. 5 Trojans win seventh straight Pac-10 title - ESPN So much for my idea that USC giving up to timeouts to wear their cardinal jerseys was the kind of hubris that could motivate UCLA. It did not matter because UCLA cooperated and took a time-out to nullify the loss of timeout penalty that USC was given for not wearing white. Final score 28-7.
It did look good though.
So, Penn State and USC play for the first time since Kickoff Classic 2000. I was there at the Meadowlands that day when the Trojans dominated the Nittany Lions (The Collegian). It foretold bad things, like a loss to Toledo the following week. Seriously, I was telling Brad and he-who-must-not-be-named that Toledo must be licking their chops.
It was a different story in the 1996 Kickoff Classic when Penn State crushed USC (The Collegian) and came within a few seconds of a shutout. They also played a few other times in 1990s if I am not mistaken. I am sure there will be plenty of official releases in the next couple of days detailing the series.
I am pretty sure that Penn State will be the home team, so expect to see blue jerseys. I doubt USC will try to wear cardinal for this one, but if they do, I am sure Joe Paterno will let them burn two timeouts. :)
By the way, I miss the Kickoff Classic. It was great for Penn State, like another bowl game almost, just in the heat and humidity of North Jersey in August. I recall that the Nittany Lions played there about ten times in a 20 year span, including twice in '96. I also saw them play Rutgers there in '95. It was a second home for PSU.
I hope PSU is the home team because last time they were there they were in white. I don't know how it works though.
Anyway, I went to two different USC games in the 90's (I believe the second was in 1994 actually). I seem to recall them coming to PSU two years in a row (that would never happen today). I remember the first time because that damn song was played seemingly every other play. And when they returned the following year I turned and groaned to my dad. I hate USC and I hate their fight songs.
# posted by Kevin McGuire :
Monday, December 08, 2008 7:18:00 AM
Last year USC wore cardinal, so that almost certainly means the Big11Ten is the home team this year, thus Penn State should go with blue. Of course, USC may want to wear cardinal again which they are welcome to do as far as I am concerned.
I think USC's band is my second favorite. I saw them at the 2000 Kickoff Classic. I also am in agreement with Beano Cook re: Song Girls.
# posted by WFY :
Monday, December 08, 2008 10:54:00 AM
Post a CommentUSC hubris makes me think an Oregon State Rose Bowl more likely - William World News
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
USC hubris makes me think an Oregon State Rose Bowl more likely
Remember oh, six hours ago when I said this:
USC still has to take care of business this Saturday with UCLA and I wish I could find the article with one of the team leaders whining about playing in the Rose Bowl as if it is fait accompli. I almost expect UCLA to pull the upset now and set up Oregon State as the Pac-10 team.
Not long after that I learned of this:
USC's Fashion More Important Than Timeouts - The Sporting Blog While USC red vs. UCLA baby blue will look great (it would look better if USC went back to red facemasks) it is not worth two timeouts. Talk about some bulletin board material.
We may just see Oregon State play Penn State again yet.
That's too much. It looks like Penn State is going after their own Rose Bowl mess as well.
# posted by silverbax :
Wednesday, December 03, 2008 6:25:00 AM
Anything can happen, but UCLA is so bad that USC would need to take the first 3 quarters off just to give them a chance. And besides, I think it would be fun to knock USC off their Trjoan horse.
# posted by TMBC :
Wednesday, December 03, 2008 10:57:00 AM
Post a CommentWho will have the chip on their shoulder, PSU or USC? - William World News
Who will have the chip on their shoulder, PSU or USC?
DAVID JONES - Penn State isn't feeling the love (and that's a good thing) - Patriot-News Jones wonders which Rose Bowl team will be the media darling and which one will have the chip on their shoulder. Most years I would say USC gets the love-fest since they are a team from a place where it never snows, but the feel-good story of Joe Paterno putting together a strong run on a busted hip may nullify that a bit.
Some potent juice is already being generated out there in PSU's favor. The Los Angeles Times' sentiment is clear at the moment, both from the mainstream, middle-aged columnist and the quick-witted, counterculture, twentysomething blogger -- USC deserves better than Penn State.
Bill Plaschke, the former, laments the Trojans' plight in his 60-second vlog from the Coliseum after the stomping of Notre Dame. The "Around The Horn" contestant doesn't even think it's a contest.
Penn State has been here before, notably on Jan. 2, 1987. As recently as two years ago, we heard for a month about Tennessee's vaunted SEC speed and we all remember that the Volunteers were as soft as Phillip Fulmer's belly. One big hit and their offense lost their will. Tony Hunt up the middle again and again and their defense lost their will. It was beautiful. Now, USC isn't some team that is merely riding on the coattails of their overrated conference; the Trojans can be scary good. USC still has to take care of business this Saturday with UCLA and I wish I could find the article with one of the team leaders whining about playing in the Rose Bowl as if it is fait accompli. I almost expect UCLA to pull the upset now and set up Oregon State as the Pac-10 team.
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa.; December 1, 2008 - Current Nittany Lion Club members will be able to purchase tickets for Penn State's third appearance in the Rose Bowl beginning Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 10:00 a.m. ET.
Inky beat-writer Jeff McLane has the scenarios -- basically, if USC beats UCLA next weekend, they are the Pac-10's Rose Bowl team. If they don't, Oregon State backs in.
Be careful what you wish for? Personally, I want Penn State to face a serious challenge. I think they can beat anybody when they play their game.
It turns out that the "not equal sign" ? does not work in Blogger titles.
10 Nittany Lions are All Big11Ten; Paterno coach of the year - William World News
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
10 Nittany Lions are All Big11Ten; Paterno coach of the year
Penn State cleaned up the Big11Ten honors with 10 players voted all-Big11Ten (Big Ten Network) by the media or coaches. Joe Paterno was coach of the year too.
Coaches' 2008 All-Big Ten Conference Football Team FIRST TEAM OFFENSE Quarterback: Daryll Clark, Penn State Receiver: Derrick Williams, Penn State Center: A.Q. Shipley, Penn State Guard: Rich Ohrnberger, Penn State Tackle: Gerald Cadogan, Penn State Kicker: Kevin Kelly, Penn State
SECOND TEAM OFFENSE Running back: Evan Royster, Penn State Guard: Stefen Wisniewski, Penn State
FIRST TEAM DEFENSE Line: Aaron Maybin, Penn State Line: Jared Odrick, Penn State Linebacker: Navorro Bowman, Penn State Defensive back: Anthony Scirrotto, Penn State
HONORABLE MENTION Jeremy Boone, Tony Davis, Dennis Landolt, Jordan Norwood, Mark Rubin, Tyrell Sales, Lydell Sargeant
OFFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR A.Q. Shipley, Penn State
Big Ten Sportsmanship Award Honorees Gerald Cadogan
Media's 2008 All-Big Ten Conference Football Team FIRST TEAM OFFENSE Quarterback: Daryll Clark, Penn State Center: A.Q. Shipley, Penn State Guard: Rich Ohrnberger, Penn State Tackle: Gerald Cadogan, Penn State Kicker: Kevin Kelly, Penn State
SECOND TEAM OFFENSE Running back: Evan Royster, Penn State Receiver: Deon Butler, Penn State Receiver: Derrick Williams, Penn State
FIRST TEAM DEFENSE Line: Aaron Maybin, Penn State Linebacker: Navorro Bowman, Penn State
SECOND TEAM DEFENSE Line: Jared Odrick, Penn State Defensive back: Lydell Sargeant, Penn State Defensive back: Anthony Scirrotto, Penn State
HONORABLE MENTION Jeremy Boone, Tony Davis, Josh Gaines, Dennis Landolt, Mark Rubin, Stefen Wisniewski
DAVE McCLAIN COACH OF THE YEAR Joe Paterno, Penn State
Paterno gets new hip; Rally in the Vally speech - William World News
Monday, November 24, 2008
Paterno gets new hip; Rally in the Vally speech
Joe Paterno celebrated Penn State's Big11Ten title by getting his hip replaced yesterday. The operation was apparently successful. He may be back on his feet today. Get well coach!
I suggest we take coach's old hip and make it the new Land Grant Trophy as it would be an improvement over the original one.
Here is the speech he gave at Rally in the Vally on Friday night:
No chance they were losing on Saturday after that speech.
Penn State won the Big11Ten! Everything is coming up roses! The Nittany Lions throttled Michigan State 49-18. It seems like everyone we know was at the game, but e watched it over at my parents house with a nice warm fire. We had a great time, though a Yale win would have been nice too.
A HUGE Yurasko College Football Saturday - William World News
A HUGE Yurasko College Football Saturday
Today is big day for two college football fans named William Yurasko. I'll be over at my dad Bill's house for a doubleheader feature our blue and white alma maters. The third William Yurasko is a little too young to understand all of the fuss, but we'll teach him about it in due time.
The fun starts off at noon (Vs.) with the 125th playing of THE GAME. Yale vs. Harvard from Harvard Stadium in Boston. Yale has a shot at sharing the Ivy League title (with the Cantabs, grrrr) in a couple of different scenarios:
1. If Yale wins and Brown falls, the Elis, Crimson and Bears would be tied for first. Penn could share the crown with a win.
2. If Harvard and Brown win, both schools share the title at 6-1. Yale could share second if Penn loses.
3. If Yale and Brown win, the Bears have the outright title.
4. If Harvard wins and Brown goes down, the Cantabs have the outright championship.
In the second part of the doubleheader, the Nittany Lions win at least a share of the Big11Ten title and a likely Rose Bowl invitation with a victory over Michigan State. If Michigan upsets Ohio State (which some misguided souls in flyover country call "The Game") earlier in the day, Penn State can win the title outright. I have predicted a Penn State victory, but I expect it to be close. The telecast is at 3:30 p.m. on ABC or ESPN/ESPN2.
Both games will be played in the cold and possibly snow flurries. While it won't be as cold as 1987, it won't be too comfortable. I'll be sitting by the fire.
Penn State vs, Michigan State prediction - William World News
Friday, November 21, 2008
Penn State vs, Michigan State prediction
I just have a bad feeling about this game and I probably should not based on Black Shoe Diaries analysis of the game. Michigan State is not exactly a one-trick pony, but outside of Javon Ringer, they cannot run the ball. Penn State seems to be equal or superior to the Spartans in most respects, but I am still...uneasy. That being said, I think Penn State gets it done with the seniors really picking it up and winning one last time in Beaver Stadium. They know the stakes, a Big11Ten Title and the Rose Bowl and should be able to pull it off. I have a feeling it will be close though. Penn State 23 Michigan State 19.
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.
11/22 - MICHIGAN STATE at PENN STATE ABC/ESPN/ESPN2 3:30 p.m.
I am going to try and do Blue White Roundtable today, but no promises. I'm trying to get caught up from two days of taking care of my baby boy who has been sick.
Penn State vs. Indiana prediction - William World News
Friday, November 14, 2008
Penn State vs. Indiana prediction
A week after losing the dream of an undefeated season, Penn State hosts Indiana. Last year, the Hooisers actually went to a bowl game for the first time since I was in high school. This year, the Hooisers have regressed back to well, the Hooisers. Indiana comes in with a 3-7 record. They have never beaten Penn State in football.
I expect Penn State to come out slowly, then find some rythm and destroy the Hooisers based on superior atheticsm and some anger from last week. Daryll Clark will play QB for most of the game unless things get really out of hand or he gets hurt. Evan Royster should have a big day too. Let's say Penn State 41 Indiana 16.
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?
If you are talking about a full-scale playoff, that will never happen. At least not in the next 15 years. We might get lucky and get a "plus-one" game but that would be it. The only way Notre Dame joins the Big Ten is if NBC starts losing some serious dough on that contract. But if memory serves, NBC just re-upped with the Irish in the last year or two so its unlikely to happen.
# posted by TMBC :
Thursday, November 13, 2008 10:04:00 PM
Penn State TV schedule as of 11.10.2008 - William World News
Monday, November 10, 2008
Penn State TV schedule as of 11.10.2008
The kickoff for the final regular season Penn State game has been announced. The Land Grant Trophy and possibly the Big11Ten title will be decided at 3:30 p.m. The game will be nationally telecast over ABC, ESPN or ESPN2, depending on where you live. I'll get the coverage map up the week of the game, probably Wednesday, November 19 or whenever it becomes available.
11/15 - INDIANA at PENN STATE BTN 12:00 p.m. 11/22 - MICHIGAN STATE at PENN STATE ABC/ESPN/ESPN2 3:30 p.m.
So, I guess I have to write something about Saturday's game - William World News
So, I guess I have to write something about Saturday's game
A few quick notes on the Penn State loss to Iowa:
I can't remember being this angry about a loss in a long time.
There is no point in holding the ball for 24 minutes in the first half if you only get one touchdown
The play of the game, Daryll Clark's interception was an uncharacteristic call by Penn State. Usually, in that situation, they play it safe and go for the field goal. Better to screw up trying to extend a drive than running up the middle for two yards and fumbling. In the end though, they still screwed up.
The secondary played poorly. I choose to blame Anthony Scirrotto, mostly because he is a punk who should have never been named captain after the April 1, 2007 incident. He probably should not have been allowed back for that matter. That pass interference call against him was iffy though.
Carroll H. Cook ('54 Pitt) has not lost any determination to jinx Penn State's 2008 season.
Matt (Miami, FL): Beano, give me YOUR top 3 teams and why you ranked them up there. SportsNation Beano Cook: Well, Alabama-1, Texas Tech-2, Penn State-3. They are all undefeated. In the old days, we would say untied. Texas Tech over Penn State because of schedule.
What is so great about Texas Tech's schedule? They play in a conference that does not believe in defense.
Adam (pittsburgh, pa): The big ten looks pretty weak and PSU scheduled an absolutely awful non-con schedule, so do you see a big ten or SEC champ with one loss both passing PSU? I know the nation is scared PSU may be another Ohio State from the last two years, and people tend to think Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma are all more deserving than PSU.
SportsNation Beano Cook: You mean Big 12 or SEC? If there are two teams with 12-0 records they will play for the national title among the BCS schools. Alabama and/or Texas Tech will have to lose.
I think he is right.
Paul (Iowa): Tell me Iowa has a chance against Penn State this weekend. SportsNation Beano Cook: I said that Penn State has to be alert. This could be a very tough game. I still feel Penn State will win. Let em say it one more time, Penn State will play for the national title. Let me say it one more time...Penn State will play for the national title.
Beano saying that is like being stabbed...twice. With his track record, you almost wonder if he cases Dixie and Pixie around the hosue all day.
jb (suwanee ga): Beano, Soup or Salad (must have been bad Clam Chowder) - how can you say TT over Penn St because of schedule. The big ten is down and maybe even worse than bad briscut BUT TT playing Mass, W Washington, Nevada, (I know must be the daunted SMU mustangs) - that schedule in the end might be better - BUT not now.Eric, Baltimore: JoePa: a) Retire if you win the Ntl Championship b) Retire if you make it to the Title Game c) Retire Regardless d) Return Next Year (Regardless of this season)
SportsNation Beano Cook: I think he will be the coach next year unless he retires due to physical problems.
SportsNation Beano Cook: Soup today for lunch. I know that is an important question.
ACtually, not you skipped the important part of the question. Saying Texas Tech has a better schedule does not look so bright now, does it?
Of course, all of this Penn State BCS talk makes me uncomfortable since they still have to win three more times. Those three games will not just be handed to Penn State like a number of people assume.
I think the bottom line here is that the Beano curse is alive and well. It doesn't always strike in the week he says the most "curse-worthy" item, but it will bite ya at some point in the season.
# posted by The Maryland Bureau Chief :
Sunday, November 09, 2008 12:26:00 PM
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.
Penn State at Iowa prediction - William World News
Penn State at Iowa prediction
Penn State heads to Iowa tomorrow after a week off having played two out of the last three games, Wisconsin and Ohio State respectively, on the road in prime time. That middle game was Michigan for homecoming. The rest seemingly came at the perfect time.
Now, ranked as high as #2 depending on what poll you are looking at, the Nittany Lions have three more games to play in the regular season. Iowa is 5-4, but every one of those losses were by a combined 12 points. They can do some damage with a decent run defense and a strong running back named Shonn Greene.
Since 1995, when I started at Penn State, 9-0 has been a stumbling block for the Nittany Lions both times they have reached that record. I don't think it will be this time though since Penn State seems to have strong leadership and focus this year. I expect them to have their troubles in Iowa City, but they should return at 10-0. Penn State wins, 28-17.
Blue White Roundtable will appear during the lunch hour. Beano Watch will appear on Saturday morning.
Penn State vs. Iowa coverage map - William World News
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Penn State vs. Iowa coverage map
ESPN finally has their college football coverage map updated for this weekend. Penn State (or Iowa, for that matter) fans in the Washington D.C. television market get the game on ABC affiliate WJLA-TV Channel 7. The northeast and Big11Ten states get it too, along with western part of the deep south and the west of the Rocky Mountains. All areas not getting the game on ABC get it on ESPN.
Penn State TV schedule as of 11.03.2008 - William World News
Monday, November 03, 2008
Penn State TV schedule as of 11.03.2008
More details about Penn State's football schedule are becoming known -- the Indiana game will be a noon kickoff on Big11Ten Network.
11/08 - PENN STATE at IOWA ESPN/ABC 3:30 p.m. 11/15 - INDIANA at PENN STATE BTN 12:00 p.m. 11/22 - MICHIGAN STATE at PENN STATE TBA (TBA)
I have seen rumors that the Michigan State game will be a 3:30 kickoff. If Penn State is 11-0 at that time, you can bet it and that it will be a on the ESPN family of networks.
Penn State TV schedule as of 10.13.2008 - William World News
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Penn State TV schedule as of 10.13.2008
Good news, Penn State's trip to Iowa gets a 3:30 p.m. kickoff:
The Big Ten also announced that Penn State's Nov. 8 contest at Iowa will kick at 3:30 p.m. ET; 2:30 p.m. CT in Iowa City. The game will be an ABC regional telecast, with ESPN airing outside the ABC coverage area. The contest is Penn State's 10th announced TV appearance of the season, with 173 of its last 175 games having been televised.
11/08 - PENN STATE at IOWA ESPN/ABC 3:30 p.m. 11/15 - INDIANA at PENN STATE TBA (TBA) 11/22 - MICHIGAN STATE at PENN STATE TBA (TBA)
We probably will not know about the other games for two weeks. If Penn State continues to win, they will probably keep getting 3:30 kickoffs and national coverage.
Penn State, Nittany Lions
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# posted by
TMBC :
Friday, January 09, 2009 2:50:00 PM