Sunday, May 31, 2009
Dance over
Fact, Figures and Factoids from the "Austin Marathon"
-- Both teams received a standing ovation at the conclusion of the game
-- Texas had to reset the scoreboard twice to post the score by inning
-- It was 96 degrees at first pitch at 6:02 p.m. - The game finished at 78 degrees at 1:05 a.m.
-- Texas introduced the 21st inning stretch
-- Both teams used all of their position players
-- There were 683 pitches thrown in the game
-- Texas stranded 24 men on base
-- Belfiore, Hamlet and Lawrence each played three positions
-- Texas had three runs on 20 hits
-- Junior Chris Kowalski recorded his first-career at-bat
-- There were 11 walks in the game compared to 42 strikeouts
-- The 10 p.m. ET game at UC Irvine game started and finished
-- The 25-inning game was the longest game in NCAA baseball history. The previous longest game was a 23-inning game played between Louisiana-Lafayette and McNeese State on March 27, 1971. ULL won the game 6-5.
-- The game also marked the longest NCAA postseason game in history. The previous longest game was a 19-inning contest between Clemson and Fordham at the NCAA Northeast Regional in New Britain, Conn. on May 26, 1988.
-- Texas and Boston College combined to set NCAA records with 42 strikeouts, 222 total chances, 69 assists, 192 plate appearances and 171 at-bats.
-- Texas' 91 at-bats, 103 plate appearances, 115 total chances and 75 putouts set new NCAA records
-- Tucker and Torres set the NCAA single-game record for at-bats with 12 AB's against BC
-- Preston Clark's 33 putouts against BC set a new NCAA record for most single-game putouts.
BC loses the allnighter
Now BC has to turn around and play Army at noon ET to avoid elimination.
Unbelievable. I've watched a ton of baseball in my life and can't remember anything like this. Let's hope BC can bounce back quickly and get another shot at the Longhorns.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Reminder on the BC-Texas game
Herzy talks candidly to Rivals
"Playing again is a goal," said Herzlich, who would have been a consensus preseason All-America selection and a top prospect for the 2010 NFL draft. "But from what the doctors say, it isn't very likely. Once they do the surgery to remove the tumor, it will be pretty damaging to my leg.
His football career only matters in the sense that I don't want him to give up his love or give up his goals. But ultimately it doesn't really matter. What matters is his health. That's where his focus should be and I know that is where most BC fans are focusing.
Basketball Season Grades: Rakim Sanders
[We now continue with the longest delayed series in atleagle history...]
When pinpointing the difference between last season and the '07-'08 campaign, you don't need to look much further than Rakim Sanders. Always considered to be the most talented recruit of his class, Sanders showed this year he has the ability to lead a team, create mismatches with any player in the league and make a big play when the game is on the line.
Sanders accession didn't seem like a sure things when the season began. Early on you saw many of the same issues from his uneven freshman year. He'd be off on his shots. He'd shoot too much. He'd get in foul trouble. Slowly he turned a corner and the bigger the stage the better he played. His shot selection and defense were huge factors in our upset of UNC.
Despite his progression, Sanders still has areas in need of improvement. His handle in the open floor is not great. Even down the stretch he still had games where he committed stupid fouls. Considering how often he is touching the ball and the offense we run, he needs to improve his assist to turnover ratio. (Or even just be more careful with the ball.)
If he continues to improve Sanders should be all ACC next year. I am very excited for what he may do (and not just because of his late game heroics). His size and strength and ability to play inside and out could make him deadly when our offense is clicking. Think of all those easy baskets Smith and Dudley got in the flex. That could be Rakim next year as he pounds smaller wing players. Ultimately, he has the tools to be great. This year he showed glimpses of that greatness and the willingness to work to get there. For that he gets a strong grade.
Season Grade: A-
Friday, May 29, 2009
A win 42 years in the making
If you missed the game or scrambled to find an internet feed, you can get audio streams from bceagles.com throughout the tournament.
Playing in Atlanta and other links
BC got a big recruit on the hockey front.
Tony Sanchez is climbing up draft boards.
There is a new movie about the BC-BU hockey rivalry called "The Battle of Comm Ave." You can watch the trailer here.
Former Eagle Ryne Reynoso is putting together a nice season in Double A.
Brian St. Pierre has a legit shot at being the Cardinals' No. 2 QB.
The nice thing about BC's baseball run is the attention some of the players are finally getting including Barry Butera, Jr.
HD thinks late September will make or break our season.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Baseball previews and other links
BC Sports Information department put up an extensive preview of the weekend and a lengthy recap of the personalities and highlights of the season.
ESPN also put up a regional breakdown.
The women's sailing team finished third at nationals.
NESN will have a full interview with Herzy this weekend.
Another rehash of the obvious, HD thinks our secondary will be good.
More on potential recruits Brandon Sacco and Blake Lueders.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Sailing stuff and other links
The Boston media is paying attention to BC baseball. The Herald, NESN and the Globe all had features today.
In the middle of this article is an update on a new BC recruiting target. We are looking at Henry Anderson who is a tall tackle/defensive end from Georgia. BC is also involved with this Jersey product.
The SEC coaches are whining about an supposed unfair recruiting restriction that helps ACC teams.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
More on Herzy and other links
Did you know the the biggest college baseball blog was founded by a BC guy? Brian sat down with the BCI guys to talk about BC playing in the Big Dance. Look for his previews in the coming days.
Tom Dienhart and HD both both have BC qbs on their minds. A lot of talk but no real news or analysis. I know I've been slacking a bit of late (real life interrupts on occasion) but my plan is to have looks at our QBs and at Tranq this summer.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Dancing
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Bubble watch and other links
BC had two players make the tournament team.
Attendance has been an issue in Durham this week. Can you imagine how things would have looked in Fenway?
Some may remember the name Arthur Ray. He committed to BC out of high school and then made a last minute switch to Michigan State. He has yet to play a down for the Spartans as he was diagnosed with cancer shortly after signing day. His courage and positive influence should serve as a good model for Herzy. (Thanks to Scott for the link.)
I asked this on Twitter, but if anyone has experience with DirecTV's DVR vs buying another stand alone Tivo DVR, please let me know.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Fenway for football?
Friday, May 22, 2009
Did baseball do enough? and other links
HD looked at the new coaches in the ACC and predicted a 5-7 start to the Spaz era. Not all bad press from HD today. She gives much deserved credit to Bowman and Davis.
Despite starting all 16 games last year and playing well, the Bears still think Josh Beekman is undersized.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Baseball bounces back and other links
HD thinks BC needs McLaughlin back and effective.
The ACC's push for an early signing period is getting more national attention.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Baseball loses opener of the ACC Tourney and other links
BCI digs deeper into the basketball attendance issue. I think all the factors they mention contribute to the overall shortfall. No one seemed to like my solution of having fewer seats for hoops.
Matt Tennant is on the Rimington Trophy Watch List. I am unconcerned about his trophies. I just want him healthy.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Reason 193 why it is good to be in the ACC
Monday, May 18, 2009
Herzy starting chemo and other links
BCI tackles the basketball attendance issue. They look at how size impacts our ranking. I actually think Conte is too big. At least too big given the demand. We've seen that consistent winning basketball is not enough to fill the building. I think reconfiguring to a smaller size is the way to go. If there is real demand for the seats and real consequences for the season ticket holders to use their seats, attendance patterns might change.
Here is a preview of the ACC Baseball Tournament. BC needs a win or two to assure a spot in the NCAA tournament.
Gos is adjusting to the new scheme in Detroit.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
What you can do
That said, if Herzy's situation has moved you and you want to do something big or small, here are some ideas.
-- Give blood and/or blood platelets. Most major cancer centers have donations opportunities. So should your local Red Cross center.
-- Give to the Flynn Fund. The Flynn Fund is how guys like Mark Herzlich even get a chance to shine and thrive at BC.
-- Give to a cancer center, the American Cancer Society or local hospital. Give in your name. Give in Mark's. It doesn't matter. Your donation will help, especially with non profits struggling in the current economy.
-- Give your time locally. Many BC Alumni chapters groups have been involved in Relay for Life. BC Mike and the Atlanta crew had a good showing just last week at the Atlanta Relay for Life.
-- Give to Penn Health. Based on Mark's statements, it seems like the Philadelphia Health Complex will be where he gets his primary treatment.
-- Give to the Jay Fund Foundation. Different BC player. Different type of cancer. But McGillis and Herzlich embody the good things about BC.
There are hundreds of other things you can do. Post good ideas in the comments section.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Baseball drops another to UNC and other links
Southern Pigskin shared their thoughts on Herzy.
Charlie Weis is one of many who have reached out to Herzy.
Rice is now considered a NBA Draft sleeper.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Herzy speaks and other links
He also spoke with HD on Thursday night. HD also took some time to look at what our linebacker situation will be like without him and McLaughlin.
If you want to leave a message for Mark, BC has but up a wall for him on their site.
In other sports news, the day after the baseball team clinched a spot in the ACC tourney, UNC beat them at home.
Skinner is one of many coaches on the NCAA's ethics committee.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Thoughts and prayers doesn't really cover what I am feeling
I write this blog as an escape. And I know that many readers use this blog as an escape. A break in their work day. A chance to vent, laugh, whatever. Ultimately it is an outlet. As spectators, sports is escapism for most of us. Then moments like this -- when the real world crashes into our playground -- everything comes into perspective.
I don't know Mark at all. I do know friends who have battled various forms of cancer and it is never easy. He's lucky in that he has an otherwise healthy strong body. He has great family support and access to the best medical minds in the world. But regardless all of that, the mental and physical road he is headed down is a rough one. Good or bad, no one knows exactly what is ahead. The only known is that it will be tough.
I know a few of Mark's teammates (none particularly well). I feel for them. Compartmentalizing sports amid all their other distractions is tough to begin with. Add this and there is an additional waive of emotions. When you are looking for leadership and guidance and your leader isn't there, things can spin out of control quickly. Hopefully others will fill that void around the program.
I know Mark's dad. Most BC fans active online feel they know him since he's been a presence on message boards since before Mark signed on with BC. If you've ever met him in person, you see where Mark gets much of his passion and intensity. Even at his age, Sandy looks like he could still run out on the field and kick some ass. In addition to his passion he's also got a good sense of humor. I am partial to people who can laugh during tough times. It's what I try to do. Not knowing Mark, but knowing his father a little, I feel confident that the whole family will have the passion, humor, perspective and faith to deal with what they are facing.
In his statement, Mark asked for privacy. I'll do my best to give that to him. I'll post things as they pop up publicly. I'll focus on the football impact when the time comes. For now, I just pray.
Official statement from Mark Herzlich and BC
BC Linebacker Herzlich Discloses He Is Battling Cancer
Senior linebacker learned of diagnosis this week
Boston College senior linebacker Mark Herzlich disclosed today that he has been diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a malignant tumor most often found in bone or soft tissue.
The following is a statement from Herzlich:
“This past week, I got some news nobody wants to hear. After undergoing some tests to determine the cause of some pain I had been experiencing in my leg, I learned that I have Ewing’s Sarcoma.
“Obviously, I was shocked. I had been extremely focused on preparing for my senior season at Boston College and for life beyond that. Now, I must channel all that energy into facing my toughest opponent yet, and that is exactly what I will do.
“I have returned to Pennsylvania to be near my family and to undergo a series of tests that will help my doctors determine the best course of treatment. I will keep you informed about my progress, but for now, I would like to ask for privacy as my family and I make some tough decisions.
“At this point, I do not know what this means for my football future, but I am determined to rid my body of this disease so that I can put that uniform back on. Thank you in advance for your prayers and concern. Together, we will fight this and win.”
The following is a statement from Coach Frank Spaziani:
“We all were stunned when we heard this news. Mark is a member of the BC football family and one of the most recognizable faces on our campus. From the day he stepped foot on our campus, he has been a leader on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.
“When people think of Mark Herzlich, they think of a fearless individual who is always ready to take on a tough opponent. His integrity, determination and focus are unmatched. I know he will face this challenge with that same attitude.
“Our thoughts today are not on football, they are on Mark Herzlich. His health is our only concern, and we will stand beside him every step of the way.”
About Mark Herzlich (6-4, 238, Sr., LB, Wayne, PA):
In 2008, Herzlich was a first-team All-America selection by Rivals.com and Scouts.com and was a member of the AP All-America third team. He was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the Butkus Award, presented annually to the nation’s top linebacker, and a quarterfinalist for the Lott Trophy. He led the Eagles with 110 tackles, six interceptions, eight pass break-ups, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
Mark Herzlich
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Basketball Season Grades: The Assistant Coaches
The assistant coaches are probably the most under appreciated aspect of college basketball. Like their piers in college football they do much of the positional coaching, much of the instruction and a lot of the leg work in recruiting. However, because the head coach in hoops becomes so iconic, the assistants are taken for granted. On Skinner's staffs assistants' roles can get expanded even more into practice and media duties that Al delegates.
When it comes to grading though, it is hard to judge the assistants on a seasonal basis. First, we did not bring in one recruit this year. By design the staff decided to bank a scholarship rather than use one on a player they didn't like. It also allows them to bring in a decent sized class next year. So that portion of their duties is incomplete.
An area of strength this year was player development. Sanders, Roche, Dunn and Jackson all got better as the season played on. That development should be credited in part to the assistants.
Assistants also do much of the prep and scouting. This year I felt the guys were much better prepared on a game to game basis and our strategy also seemed to be appropriate given each opponent.
While this group of assistants might not be as accomplished or talented as some of Al's previous staffs, they deserve much credit for this year's turnaround. The team was better in multiple ways and much of that was done by the guys who sit and work around Al.
Season Grade: B
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
ACC Championship Game talk and other links
Dr. Saturday clears up HD's blog post about the ACC potentially changing line of scrimmage rules.
No link, but on the hockey front, BC announced that John Muse had hip surgery on April 30. He should be fine by fall.
Tyrese Rice worked out with the Raptors and is trying to make ans impression with NBA GMs. There is also a video clip of him in Canada.
The baseball team lost to UConn Tuesday.
The Sailing Team continues to dominate the college scene.
Monday, May 11, 2009
In defense of Mobile
-- Good Hotel options: Mobile has a variety of branded hotels from which to chose. You want high end, you have a choice. You want quick, clean and cheap, you have a choice. It is much better than Boise.
-- Good weather: Mobile is not Hawaii or South Beach, but it will have better weather than Boise, DC, Nashville, Charlotte or San Fran will on Jan 6.
-- Flight options: no direct flights from New York of Boston, but you can connect via most of the major hubs in the southeast.
-- Something to do: tons of golf in the area and tons of bars/clubs downtown.
I don't want to see BC in Mobile next year. I want to be in the national championship, but if we do end up there, I will probably go to the bowl. But let me echo what I say about all road games: just go! Most people have fun regardless of the location.
Sifting through the ACC meetings BS and other links
Here are some updates on a few recruits we are chasing: (Chris Burrell, Blake Barker, and Bill Bilo).
A couple former eagles are helping Kevin Challenger with his football camp.
Mr. College Football turned his focus to our division. Same old doubts about us.
This isn't sports, but it is a nice story on BC alums coming together.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Baseball gets to 30 wins and other links
The women's track team won the New England championship.
Mobile just started their ACC affiliation and they are already talking about their preference for southern teams over BC.
The death of Nick Adenhart was just the latest emotional hurdle for former Eagle Ryan Leahy.
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Chuck Daly and other links
More talk of Herzy being a top pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
The Globe caught up with former Eagle Pat Eaves.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Providence Hoopster to play football and other links
The ACC released its bowl schedule. HD doesn't even think we will fill an ACC slot. She has us as an at large, which would have us going to an open slot. My hunch at this point is that we will be in San Francisco.
Chris Crane talked to his local paper about meeting Peyton Manning.
The softball team lost in the first round of the ACC tourney to Florida State.
Francois explained why he signed with the Vikings instead of some other NFL options.
The ACC is considering an 18-game regular season conference slate for basketball.
David Glenn posted his spring overview of BC.
When in Rome...
Thursday, May 07, 2009
HD's recap and other links
BC cleared a major hurdle in the expansion and renovation process.
Carolyn Swords is trying to make Team USA.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
atleagle on Twitter
The overlooked aspect of the ACC-Fenway problem and other links
On the women's side, BC will take on FSU in the ACC Softball championship.
Dallas's bubble collapse has BC prepping our bubble for weather issues.
For those who haven't notice, Eagle Insider is beefing up their content. Here is their interview with Gene.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Spaz gets the Kevin Armstrong treatment
Crane a Colt and other links
Former Eagle Ryan Glasper is hanging on up in the CFL.
Harsh gossip on the still unsigned Toal out of Jets camp. They had concerns about: his size, attitude, and injury history.
Deadspin poked a little fun at some alleged Raji memorabilia.
The Patriots signed Vinny Ciurciu. The former Eagle has now played in seven NFL seasons.
The ACC named Pat Dean the pitcher of the week.
Monday, May 04, 2009
The Boston Globe and BC
Fortunately there are numerous bloggers and websites covering BC these days. Even BC has done a good job in producing original interviews and video pieces for bceagles.com. Together that will fill any void should the Globe curtail its BC coverage.
I don't think the paper is going under due to the problems in how it approached the BC beat, but I do think you can see signs of why these old institutions fail more often than they adapt. Just take a look at most BC fans big gripes:
1. Originality. It is tough to stay fresh on any beat. Give Mike Vega credit, he wrote about BC for a long time in a professional way. However, too often Vega and his counterpart at the Herald would write features on the same, exact BC players. Both articles were accessible from the web. Did no one question whether the leading paper should make more of an effort to differentiate itself in the players it chose to feature. I often wondered why the writers wouldn't collude a bit and go after different subjects.
2. Lack of breaking news. As the leading paper with ultimate access, the Globe could have and should have broken more BC news. Too often the beat guys become too friendly or protect their access over breaking news. How Vega let TOB go unquestioned through the 2007 season without confirming or disclosing Matt Ryan's broken foot is mind boggling.
3. Leaving criticism to the hatchet men. Once again it comes down to access. The beat guys cannot upset the school or coaches, so columnists or guys from other beats have to come in and criticize. The problem with that strategy is the bomb throwers were often uniformed or lacked perspective. A great beat writer could have walked that line at BC.
4. Under utilizing, NESN, Boston.com and other avenues. There is an audience for BC blogs. It may not be huge but it could have been another revenue stream for the Globe. Instead different writers and different times gave the Boston.com blogs half-hearted support. Usually all that it involved was a posting of a story that would eventually make its way to print.
5. Bringing Blaudschun back. I guess this had more to do with union politics and seniority than anything else, but bringing Mark Blaudschun back to the BC beat hurt coverage. Blaudschun is a decent writer, but I cannot think of one interesting take or innovation he brought to the position since he's been back. The only upside to Blaudschun's return was that it opened a door for Julian Benbow on the basketball front.
6. Sensationalizing the unflattering BC stories. News is news, but too often the Globe would trot out Bob Hohler was a quick hit piece. Rarely did they write about the good things BC jocks and regular students do.
It is easy to play backseat driver on a dying industry. A follower of this blog could easily rattle off a dozen mistakes I've made on this blog. The frustration comes in on what could have been. BC fans will get their fix somewhere. It is just a shame that we never got all that we could have from a once great paper.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Hulu is ignoring BC's Notre Dame history
How can you include 1995 in the library and not 1993? Where is the 2002 game that saw BC knock off an undefeated Irish team? Where is the comeback game from 2004? Why not include Matt Ryan's 2007 game where he showed signs of the NFL QB he'd become. Does Hulu think only ND fans use their service? Does Notre Dame not want to release losses?
Being the shit stirrer that I am, I sent a note to Hulu asking when they will be adding other Boston College-Notre Dame content. I will let you know how they respond. Feel free to reach out too (feedback@hulu.com). If they realize there is interest, we could soon have access to the whole BC-ND library!
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Purvis and Jags reunite in Tampa
Friday, May 01, 2009
Island Jam announcement and other links
Brock Bradford and Bob Dirks won the highest honor given to BC athletes. Congrats to both.
Al and Company are looking at Minnesota Forward Kevin Noreen.
Brace's first NFL practice went well.
Clemson fans are already scouting BC.
Kevin Akins and Brian Toal are trying out with the Jets. (Thanks to Bill B. for the link.)