John's camera doesn't exactly give you a closeup of the action, but he captured the moment and reaction of the BC fans in Clemson perfectly.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Words of wisdom for all current BC students
[I try not to get preachy on this blog, but I needed to say this. If you are a current student and your friends are waffling about the ACC Championship game, please send them the link to this post.]
If you are current BC student you need to get to Jacksonville for the ACC Championship game. Drive, fly, sail, whatever. Just get there by 1 PM on December 1. There is no excuse. “I’m just a Freshman. I’ll go next year.” Wrong. You can never predict when or how often these things happen. Clemson has numerous program advantages over most of the ACC, yet they haven’t won an ACC title since 1991.
“I’m broke.” You are a college student. Of course you’re broke. But I imagine if you are like most college students you can always scrounge up a few bucks if you really want something. Beg, borrow, deal. Go to the blood bank. Sell your text books. Sell your roommate's text books! Whatever it takes. Credit card debt lasts forever but as the ads say, seeing BC battle for the ACC crown is priceless.
“I don’t have the time” or “I have a big test.” Come on. Don’t be that guy or girl. You can study on the drive or flight. It’s a day game on a Saturday. Even if you drive you can be back on campus by Sunday afternoon.
“I don’t really like sports that much.” Listen, I understand there are some SuperFans out there who had never been to a football game before they got to BC and will probably never go to one after. Traveling 1,200 miles to see BC play Virginia or Virginia Tech may not sound that appealing. People, if the actual game doesn’t interest you, the adventure should. You’re only young once. In a few years getting drunk and hooking up with some Jacksonville local on the Landing won’t be cute or funny. Do it in two weeks and it’s just another thing your friends will needle you about back in the Mods.
Real life is just around the corner. Alumni who want to go to this game have to face much more serious dilemmas. We are paying mortgages, student loans, and car payments. We old timers have to deal with limited vacation days or finding babysitters. You don’t have those obstacles.
In my opinion life gets better with age. I wouldn’t switch places with any college kid in the world. There are many things about being young and in college that are limiting. One of the benefits of your current situation is that you have plenty of freedom and flexibility. Take advantage of it.
Go to Jacksonville. You’ll never regret it.
If you are current BC student you need to get to Jacksonville for the ACC Championship game. Drive, fly, sail, whatever. Just get there by 1 PM on December 1. There is no excuse. “I’m just a Freshman. I’ll go next year.” Wrong. You can never predict when or how often these things happen. Clemson has numerous program advantages over most of the ACC, yet they haven’t won an ACC title since 1991.
“I’m broke.” You are a college student. Of course you’re broke. But I imagine if you are like most college students you can always scrounge up a few bucks if you really want something. Beg, borrow, deal. Go to the blood bank. Sell your text books. Sell your roommate's text books! Whatever it takes. Credit card debt lasts forever but as the ads say, seeing BC battle for the ACC crown is priceless.
“I don’t have the time” or “I have a big test.” Come on. Don’t be that guy or girl. You can study on the drive or flight. It’s a day game on a Saturday. Even if you drive you can be back on campus by Sunday afternoon.
“I don’t really like sports that much.” Listen, I understand there are some SuperFans out there who had never been to a football game before they got to BC and will probably never go to one after. Traveling 1,200 miles to see BC play Virginia or Virginia Tech may not sound that appealing. People, if the actual game doesn’t interest you, the adventure should. You’re only young once. In a few years getting drunk and hooking up with some Jacksonville local on the Landing won’t be cute or funny. Do it in two weeks and it’s just another thing your friends will needle you about back in the Mods.
Real life is just around the corner. Alumni who want to go to this game have to face much more serious dilemmas. We are paying mortgages, student loans, and car payments. We old timers have to deal with limited vacation days or finding babysitters. You don’t have those obstacles.
In my opinion life gets better with age. I wouldn’t switch places with any college kid in the world. There are many things about being young and in college that are limiting. One of the benefits of your current situation is that you have plenty of freedom and flexibility. Take advantage of it.
Go to Jacksonville. You’ll never regret it.
Second viewing thoughts and grade report: Clemson
Watching this game back on Tivo felt like a different game from the one I saw in-person on Saturday night. For those of you who wonder about the offensive line issues and Ryan burning all those timeouts in the first half, there is no way to capture the noise levels on TV. During the first half you couldn’t hear anything when BC had the ball. Fortunately the Clemson crowd either got tired or tense and weren’t as loud in the second half. It’s crazy to think we won in a monsoon in Lane and in Death Valley with everything on the line, yet couldn’t click at Maryland. That’s college football for ya’.
Offense: B
It was a good, but not great game for Ryan. He made the plays when it mattered, but there were a few missteps and issues along the way. Many of the sacks he could have avoided if he tossed the ball away. The INT was a terrible throw. There were stretches when he was really locking in on his receivers. The things he did well: running when appropriate, fighting for an extra yard on the short yardage plays, and making those Ryan throws that only he can make. Another little adjustment that paid off – not checking out of the run plays. None of those draws and delays broke for anything big, but Ryan’s patience with them kept Clemson honest and helped BC control the ball. He also deserves credit for another comeback on another big play. (This week I might do a look back at all of Ryan’s comebacks.) I don’t know if he did enough to get back in the Heisman mix, but he got us to Jacksonville. That is all that matters.
By design BC wanted to attack Clemson’s D with passes to the RBs coming out of the backfield. Whitworth and AC delivered. Not only did they make some big catches, they also made a move or two that helped add on extra yardage. AC also did a good job on the delays and draws. No game-breaking runs but plenty of three and four yarders that kept the clock moving. Finally AC did a great job on pass protection in the second half. McCluskey wasn’t on the field all that much but I appreciate the job he does in short yardage.
Did you ever think that Gunnell and Megwa would be so clutch in this environment? Both made tough catch after tough catch. Megwa especially did a good job finding spots in the middle zones. Gunnell made a great adjustment to break off his route for the TD. Robinson had some nice grabs. Ryan wanted to go to him more often, but Clemson did a good job of shutting him down when he was split wide. Challenger didn’t do much before suffering his injury. Purvis made a few plays, but overall had a bit of an off night...dropping balls he normally catches. Loyte was on the field quite a bit but never really got involved in the passing game.
The offensive line was a mixed bag. Two guys had good games. Three had rough games and one had an uneven performance. First, the good. Clif Ramsey probably had his best game of the season. He moved very well in the run game, on the screens and in pass protection. Matt Tennant had another strong performance and was the source of much of our running success. Cherilus had some issues in the first half, but buckled down and played much better in the second half. The three guys who struggled were Hall, Anevski and Castonzo. Hall and Anevski were just inconsistent – one play they’d look good and then the next they’d get beat. Castonzo was different. He did a great job on run plays. In pass protection he just got overrun by stronger guys. Teams know how to attack him now. Hopefully his game will progress in the next few years.
Logan called a great game. He mixed in the run well and kept our defense off the field. We didn’t stretch the field as much as we have this season, but it was a perfect example of taking what Clemson gave us – the short spots in the zone. My only complaint is that in 4-down territory we don’t seem to run on third down. But that is a very minor complaint. Overall, he did a very nice job.
Defense: B+
First let me signal out Alex Albright. He really has been busting his ass the past month. Sorry to see him go down. Hopefully he can play in a cast in the bowl game. The defensive line still had trouble generating a pass rush, but they did a good job of slowing down Clemson’s run. Good game from Brace and Brady Smith. Both of the big guys also hustled all over the field. Ramella had an okay game, but did get called for two false starts. Larkin had a good game and did a good job in contain. The second teamers got on the field more than they did last week. None of them stood out – good or bad.
The linebackers were fantastic. Kevin Akins had the game of his career. In addition to the INT, he was all over the field and made numerous big tackles and helped contain Spiller on the edge. McLaughlin played well. Herzy had a good game and was crucial in applying pressure late to Harper. Francois was quite. Dunbar didn’t play much but he might have saved the game. On the series when Clemson was first and goal from the 2 and only came away with a FG, he made a stop on first and second and knocked down the pass on third down.
Hats off to Gause. Spiller faked him out once and he and Anderson had some confusion on the late go route that would have won the game for the Tigers, but overall he played well given his experience and what he was asked to do. Another youngster – Rollins – also played well. His sack iced the game. Morris played much better than he did last week. Anderson wasn’t tested much but made a few good breaks on balls. Silva was all over the place and was another factor in keeping Spiller from breaking bigger plays.
I’ve ripped Spaz in the past, so I must give him his due. I never thought we would hold Clemson to 17. I think he did a decent job of mixing things up on Harper. We showed him blitz early then went away from it for long stretches, only to use it again on the final drive. We shutdown their run game and kept them from connecting on big pass plays. Bend but don’t break didn’t work against Maryland. It did Saturday night.
Special Teams: B-
Lots of discussion of kickoffs in my section. I am as frustrated as anyone about the squibs, but don’t blame Aponavicius. He is being told to squib. The past few weeks we’ve had decent success with the strategy. Against Clemson it nearly killed us. Stevie A. is also a liability in the field goals, since we don’t trust him to make anything remotely long. All that said, he did what was asked. Let’s hope Bennett gets healthy, because we need his leg.
Silva did what was expected on the punt returns.
McLaughlin had one bad long snap, but everything else looked good enough. Ayers had some good punts and our punt coverage team remained very strong.
Rich Gunnell looked very good in his new role as a kick returner.
Overall: A-
This is the first time where I've given a higher overall grade than I did for each unit. It was a big, big win and Jags deserves the game ball. As head man, you have to push the right buttons with your players and your staff. He did it. This team was ready and not intimidated by the surrounding or what was at stake. Great job.
Offense: B
It was a good, but not great game for Ryan. He made the plays when it mattered, but there were a few missteps and issues along the way. Many of the sacks he could have avoided if he tossed the ball away. The INT was a terrible throw. There were stretches when he was really locking in on his receivers. The things he did well: running when appropriate, fighting for an extra yard on the short yardage plays, and making those Ryan throws that only he can make. Another little adjustment that paid off – not checking out of the run plays. None of those draws and delays broke for anything big, but Ryan’s patience with them kept Clemson honest and helped BC control the ball. He also deserves credit for another comeback on another big play. (This week I might do a look back at all of Ryan’s comebacks.) I don’t know if he did enough to get back in the Heisman mix, but he got us to Jacksonville. That is all that matters.
By design BC wanted to attack Clemson’s D with passes to the RBs coming out of the backfield. Whitworth and AC delivered. Not only did they make some big catches, they also made a move or two that helped add on extra yardage. AC also did a good job on the delays and draws. No game-breaking runs but plenty of three and four yarders that kept the clock moving. Finally AC did a great job on pass protection in the second half. McCluskey wasn’t on the field all that much but I appreciate the job he does in short yardage.
Did you ever think that Gunnell and Megwa would be so clutch in this environment? Both made tough catch after tough catch. Megwa especially did a good job finding spots in the middle zones. Gunnell made a great adjustment to break off his route for the TD. Robinson had some nice grabs. Ryan wanted to go to him more often, but Clemson did a good job of shutting him down when he was split wide. Challenger didn’t do much before suffering his injury. Purvis made a few plays, but overall had a bit of an off night...dropping balls he normally catches. Loyte was on the field quite a bit but never really got involved in the passing game.
The offensive line was a mixed bag. Two guys had good games. Three had rough games and one had an uneven performance. First, the good. Clif Ramsey probably had his best game of the season. He moved very well in the run game, on the screens and in pass protection. Matt Tennant had another strong performance and was the source of much of our running success. Cherilus had some issues in the first half, but buckled down and played much better in the second half. The three guys who struggled were Hall, Anevski and Castonzo. Hall and Anevski were just inconsistent – one play they’d look good and then the next they’d get beat. Castonzo was different. He did a great job on run plays. In pass protection he just got overrun by stronger guys. Teams know how to attack him now. Hopefully his game will progress in the next few years.
Logan called a great game. He mixed in the run well and kept our defense off the field. We didn’t stretch the field as much as we have this season, but it was a perfect example of taking what Clemson gave us – the short spots in the zone. My only complaint is that in 4-down territory we don’t seem to run on third down. But that is a very minor complaint. Overall, he did a very nice job.
Defense: B+
First let me signal out Alex Albright. He really has been busting his ass the past month. Sorry to see him go down. Hopefully he can play in a cast in the bowl game. The defensive line still had trouble generating a pass rush, but they did a good job of slowing down Clemson’s run. Good game from Brace and Brady Smith. Both of the big guys also hustled all over the field. Ramella had an okay game, but did get called for two false starts. Larkin had a good game and did a good job in contain. The second teamers got on the field more than they did last week. None of them stood out – good or bad.
The linebackers were fantastic. Kevin Akins had the game of his career. In addition to the INT, he was all over the field and made numerous big tackles and helped contain Spiller on the edge. McLaughlin played well. Herzy had a good game and was crucial in applying pressure late to Harper. Francois was quite. Dunbar didn’t play much but he might have saved the game. On the series when Clemson was first and goal from the 2 and only came away with a FG, he made a stop on first and second and knocked down the pass on third down.
Hats off to Gause. Spiller faked him out once and he and Anderson had some confusion on the late go route that would have won the game for the Tigers, but overall he played well given his experience and what he was asked to do. Another youngster – Rollins – also played well. His sack iced the game. Morris played much better than he did last week. Anderson wasn’t tested much but made a few good breaks on balls. Silva was all over the place and was another factor in keeping Spiller from breaking bigger plays.
I’ve ripped Spaz in the past, so I must give him his due. I never thought we would hold Clemson to 17. I think he did a decent job of mixing things up on Harper. We showed him blitz early then went away from it for long stretches, only to use it again on the final drive. We shutdown their run game and kept them from connecting on big pass plays. Bend but don’t break didn’t work against Maryland. It did Saturday night.
Special Teams: B-
Lots of discussion of kickoffs in my section. I am as frustrated as anyone about the squibs, but don’t blame Aponavicius. He is being told to squib. The past few weeks we’ve had decent success with the strategy. Against Clemson it nearly killed us. Stevie A. is also a liability in the field goals, since we don’t trust him to make anything remotely long. All that said, he did what was asked. Let’s hope Bennett gets healthy, because we need his leg.
Silva did what was expected on the punt returns.
McLaughlin had one bad long snap, but everything else looked good enough. Ayers had some good punts and our punt coverage team remained very strong.
Rich Gunnell looked very good in his new role as a kick returner.
Overall: A-
This is the first time where I've given a higher overall grade than I did for each unit. It was a big, big win and Jags deserves the game ball. As head man, you have to push the right buttons with your players and your staff. He did it. This team was ready and not intimidated by the surrounding or what was at stake. Great job.
Scenes from Death Valley
Let me repeat what I've said to anyone who asks -- Clemson is the best atmosphere in college football. I think every BC fan should try to make the trip at some point. Here my shots of the game. Sorry for the blurry ones. I put them up anyway to give folks a sense of the night and the post-game celebration. Very good showing from the BC crowd. We were loud and standing throughout. If you feel like you missed something big -- get down to Jacksonville in two weeks!
Shipping up to Boston Jacksonville
Can you believe it? Not the prettiest game, but who cares about style points when you win your division. Hats off to the D and my recent whipping boy Frank Spaziani. I am sure when I watch it back I'll have a few nits to pick, but holding Clemson to 17 at home is a major accomplishments. The offense had some rough patches, but also did what they needed.
I'll have plenty of posts throughout Sunday. My pictures, second viewing thoughts and I hope YouTube video and pics from when the team arrives back on campus.
Now if you are even considering the trip to the ACC championship, throw caution to the wind and do it.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
In-game comments post: Clemson
This is that game. It is the last chance for Ryan and his fellow seniors to win that one game that has kept them from bigger things. It will be tough, but BC can do it.
I'll be at the game, so I will not be online. Leave your comments and thoughts below.
I'll be at the game, so I will not be online. Leave your comments and thoughts below.
Friday, November 16, 2007
The Trouble With Tribble
If you didn't read it elsewhere, Tribble is out for Clemson and the remainder of the regular season. He hasn't played well defensively the past two games, but it is still a loss for the BC D. Punt return is a different story. Tribble has been bad this year returning punts. He is too quick to let the ball roll and has faircaught the vast majority of punts he does field. Just look at the stats.
Through 10 games, BC has only returned 10 punts. That is the lowest in the ACC. The only other BCS team that has only returned 10 punts is Syracuse and the Orange's D is so bad they have barely been punted to.
Not only did Tribble fail to attempt many returns, the returns he made have generated very little yardage. His 10 returns have gone for just 47 yards for a 4.7 yard average. The only BCS teams with worse average returns are Iowa State and the beleaguered Syracuse.
Through 10 games, BC has only returned 10 punts. That is the lowest in the ACC. The only other BCS team that has only returned 10 punts is Syracuse and the Orange's D is so bad they have barely been punted to.
Not only did Tribble fail to attempt many returns, the returns he made have generated very little yardage. His 10 returns have gone for just 47 yards for a 4.7 yard average. The only BCS teams with worse average returns are Iowa State and the beleaguered Syracuse.
I hope Tribble comes back strong in the bowl game but I think Silva, Challenger or Mulrooney (the likely candidates to return punts) will be an improvement.
The "H" word
I don't think Ryan will win the Heisman. However, Dennis Dixon showed how quickly one can go from frontrunner to afterthought. IF BC wins out, Ryan still has a chance.
To show you what he is up against, check out what the Florida sports information group is sending out to voters.
Rooting guide
Why do we need a rooting guide if we still control our own destiny? It is not that simple. Beating Clemson gets BC into the ACC Championship Game. However, if BC loses that game, we can tumble down the bowl ladder pretty quickly. With NC State and Florida State and their great travel reps still hanging around, BC could always use some help.
North Carolina vs Georgia Tech. North Carolina is no longer bowl eligible. Tech is and would probably bring more fans to Nashville than BC. Go Heels.
North Carolina vs Georgia Tech. North Carolina is no longer bowl eligible. Tech is and would probably bring more fans to Nashville than BC. Go Heels.
Maryland vs Florida State. Both would travel better than BC. Both have beaten BC. It is toss up. I would prefer to see Maryland win as it would put the Champs Bowl out of reach for the 'Noles. Go Terps.
Miami vs Virginia Tech. No major bowl implications (since VT is going to a good one regardless), so I would like to see BC's strength of schedule improved. Go Hokies.
NC State vs Wake Forest. A late charging NC State could screw up the whole bowl picture. Wake needs to end TOB's little run. Go Deacons.
Duke vs Notre Dame. No implications on us (outside of strength of schedule). I would love to see the Dukies win. Go Duke.
Clemson plans
We are not going to be at the official BC tailgate. But if you are going to the game and want to say hello, look for me in Section V (one of the BC sections), row U. I'll have the pants and the hat and will be with the Mrs.
Game Watches: Clemson
This is on ESPN 2, so most of you can see it at home. If you want to enjoy it with fellow BC fans, here are some places you can go. If I've missed any post below or send me an email.
Atlanta Game Watch
Frankie’s Sports Bar, Frankie's (Sandy Springs at The Prado)
5600 Roswell Road NE
Chicago Game Watch
Finley Dunnes Tavern
3458 N. Lincoln Avenue
Chicago
Los Angeles Game Watch
McCabe's Bar and Grill
2455 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica
Atlanta Game Watch
Frankie’s Sports Bar, Frankie's (Sandy Springs at The Prado)
5600 Roswell Road NE
Chicago Game Watch
Finley Dunnes Tavern
3458 N. Lincoln Avenue
Chicago
Los Angeles Game Watch
McCabe's Bar and Grill
2455 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica
New York City Game Watches
Pat O'Briens
1701 2nd Avenue (2nd ave and 88th street)
New York, NY
Society Bar & Restaurant
535 LaGuardia Place
New York, NY
Philadelphia Game Watch
Fox and Hound Smokehouse and Tavern
1501 Spruce Street
Philadelphia
Phoenix Game Watch
16th Street Sports Bar & Grill
6522 N. 16th Street
Phoenix
San Francisco Game Watch
Green's Sports Bar
Polk @ Green
Russian Hill area
Washington, D.C. Game Watch
Porter's Dining Saloon
The corner of 19th and M, Sts. NW and is walking distance from the Dupont Circle, Farragut North, and Farragut West Metro stations.
Friday links
Here are some quick links, some of which you've probably read by now...
The BC men's soccer team continued its very strong play. They are now in the ACC semifinals.
One of our better hockey players, Brett Motherwell, has left the school. He's been discipline problem for Jerry York in the past.
BC grad Chris Mannix is still on the Ryan bandwagon.
This is an article on the Gator Bowl's talks with Texas Tech. Buried deep inside is a reference to BC as a "Wild Card." Not a good sign when the bowl organizers are expressing doubt publicly. We need to win out to get into a real bowl.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
BC-Clemson preview
In Jags’ first press conference he spoke of taking it to the next level. Since then he has reminded everyone that BC has only been “one game away.” Here is that game. Miami will matter for rankings, bowls and style points, but this is the only game with true implications. Win and BC goes to its first ACC Championship. Lose and we are back in familiar territory -- third-tier bowls and a good but not great season. I’ll be on hand for the game. Hopefully it will be a day to remember.
Theme that won’t be discussed on television. When people discuss the ACC, Clemson is considered a power (or lately a partially sleeping giant). BC is considered a modest, underdog program. While I think Clemson does have some recruiting advantages and provides a big-time college football experience, historically Clemson and BC are very similar. The Tigers have won 624 games and carry a .590 winning percentage. BC has won 598 games and carry a .583 winning percentage. The main differentiation and probable reason the programs are viewed differently is that Clemson won a National Championship in the modern era. If Clemson is expected to compete for an ACC title every year, why can’t we expect BC to be in the mix annually as well?
Three simple keys.
1. Stop the big play. Spaz’s D is supposed to bend, not break. The past two games they have allowed 13 plays for 20 or more yards. Clemson broke some big plays last year. BC needs to limit those mistakes to less than three in this game.
2. Get to Harper. I know I’ve been beating a dead horse, but if there is ever a week where we need our pass rush to come alive it is this one. If mediocre QBs pick us apart without pressure, a good one like Harper will pass for 300 yards before the half.
3. Create a few big plays in Special Teams. If there is one area where Clemson is still vulnerable it is in special teams. Tribble being questionable may be a good thing. Perhaps his replacement might actually return a punt. Robinson and Smith have had some decent returns but nothing to the next level. BC needs someone to step up.
Gambling notes
-- Jags is 2-0 as a road underdog
-- Tommy Bowden is 13-19 against ranked teams
-- Clemson is 15-5 in their last 20 home finales
The current line is BC+7.5
What would be a pleasant surprise? Seeing the defense clamp down. I expect a shoot out. If our defense holds them to two touchdowns, I’ll hand out plenty of kudos to Spaz.
What would be a letdown? Getting blown out. A lopsided loss would probably send us out of the Top 25 and kill all the buzz that was left from our hot start.
What would be a shocker? The perfect game. Even when things were going well, we never really put a perfect 60 minutes together. This team never reached its full potential in one day. It would be nice if it happens Saturday.
Bottom Line
I wish I felt better about this game. All my rationalizations are pretty weak: “they’re due for a letdown,” “we won’t lose three in a row,” etc. Clemson is beatable, just not by the BC team we’ve seen the past two weeks. My mind is saying this will be ugly, my heart thinks we still have a chance.
Final Score: BC 28, Clemson 20.
Theme that won’t be discussed on television. When people discuss the ACC, Clemson is considered a power (or lately a partially sleeping giant). BC is considered a modest, underdog program. While I think Clemson does have some recruiting advantages and provides a big-time college football experience, historically Clemson and BC are very similar. The Tigers have won 624 games and carry a .590 winning percentage. BC has won 598 games and carry a .583 winning percentage. The main differentiation and probable reason the programs are viewed differently is that Clemson won a National Championship in the modern era. If Clemson is expected to compete for an ACC title every year, why can’t we expect BC to be in the mix annually as well?
Three simple keys.
1. Stop the big play. Spaz’s D is supposed to bend, not break. The past two games they have allowed 13 plays for 20 or more yards. Clemson broke some big plays last year. BC needs to limit those mistakes to less than three in this game.
2. Get to Harper. I know I’ve been beating a dead horse, but if there is ever a week where we need our pass rush to come alive it is this one. If mediocre QBs pick us apart without pressure, a good one like Harper will pass for 300 yards before the half.
3. Create a few big plays in Special Teams. If there is one area where Clemson is still vulnerable it is in special teams. Tribble being questionable may be a good thing. Perhaps his replacement might actually return a punt. Robinson and Smith have had some decent returns but nothing to the next level. BC needs someone to step up.
Gambling notes
-- Jags is 2-0 as a road underdog
-- Tommy Bowden is 13-19 against ranked teams
-- Clemson is 15-5 in their last 20 home finales
The current line is BC+7.5
What would be a pleasant surprise? Seeing the defense clamp down. I expect a shoot out. If our defense holds them to two touchdowns, I’ll hand out plenty of kudos to Spaz.
What would be a letdown? Getting blown out. A lopsided loss would probably send us out of the Top 25 and kill all the buzz that was left from our hot start.
What would be a shocker? The perfect game. Even when things were going well, we never really put a perfect 60 minutes together. This team never reached its full potential in one day. It would be nice if it happens Saturday.
Bottom Line
I wish I felt better about this game. All my rationalizations are pretty weak: “they’re due for a letdown,” “we won’t lose three in a row,” etc. Clemson is beatable, just not by the BC team we’ve seen the past two weeks. My mind is saying this will be ugly, my heart thinks we still have a chance.
Final Score: BC 28, Clemson 20.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Guest Blogger: Danny Ford Is God
From a distance Clemson has looked great the past month. But what do I know? To get a real look at the Tigers I asked the guys from Danny Ford Is God to answer a few questions in anticipation of Saturday's very important game. Their blog name is due to the long shadow Ford has cast over the Tommy Bowden era. Hopefully, Bowden does nothing this Saturday to make them change the name of their blog.
Heading into the season the Clemson question marks on offense seemed to be on Oline and QB. Based on production, I am guessing things turned out pretty well. What has been the key to things coming together?
DFIG: The line had to gel. I know this is sort of a vague football cliché, but the guys really had to get used to lining up beside each other as a unit. They had all gotten snaps before, but not in their current iteration. Barry Richardson has been the anchor, and as fierce as he seems on the football field, you won't get more than two words out of him off the field. Not only does he look like an escaped Easter Island statue, he is about as vociferous as one.
In terms of Harper's production, it mainly comes down to the schemes we run in addition to protection. We don't ask him to throw bombs down the field too often, nor does he throw the number of passes per game that Ryan does. He mostly has 6-7 yard passes, dishes out to our speed guys, and screens.
Most teams have been coming after Ryan. How good is the Tiger pass rush? What can BC expect defensively?
DFIG: Junior Phillip Merling should be attempting to get at Ryan with all his might this Saturday. Against Wake Forest he had seven tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, and several QB hurries. Overall our defense is relatively stout, but Matty Ice will be by far the best QB they've faced. In the ACC, Clemson is 1st in total defense, 6th in rushing defense, 1st in pass defense, and 4th in scoring defense. The Clemson defense will most certainly be rushing the QB often.
BC fans are pretty down in the dumps. The only thing that some of us are clinging to is the Tommy Bowden letdown/hiccup theory. I know it is grasping at straws, but do you guys fear a Tommy screwup this Saturday?
DFIG: The Tigers, in recent memory, have often taken fans' hopes and dashed them against the rocks of failure. I will in no way be surprised if we lose to BC and then SC. Both teams are coming off strings of losses and need to salvage their seasons; BC to get an ACCCG bid and SC to get a bowl bid. That being said, I think this team is more akin to the 2003 Clemson team that rattled off 4 straight wins to finish strong. If Clemson loses Saturday it will not be due to lack of preparation. Our friends on the team say that the Tigers have been staying at film practice longer than usual and putting more work in at practice than usual. I think the team and coaching staff are focused. Again, we've had epic failures before, but I don't think this season will be one of them.
Finally, what is your prediction for the game?
I think Clemson wins by a touchdown. We'll post our official score predictions on Friday.
Heading into the season the Clemson question marks on offense seemed to be on Oline and QB. Based on production, I am guessing things turned out pretty well. What has been the key to things coming together?
DFIG: The line had to gel. I know this is sort of a vague football cliché, but the guys really had to get used to lining up beside each other as a unit. They had all gotten snaps before, but not in their current iteration. Barry Richardson has been the anchor, and as fierce as he seems on the football field, you won't get more than two words out of him off the field. Not only does he look like an escaped Easter Island statue, he is about as vociferous as one.
In terms of Harper's production, it mainly comes down to the schemes we run in addition to protection. We don't ask him to throw bombs down the field too often, nor does he throw the number of passes per game that Ryan does. He mostly has 6-7 yard passes, dishes out to our speed guys, and screens.
Most teams have been coming after Ryan. How good is the Tiger pass rush? What can BC expect defensively?
DFIG: Junior Phillip Merling should be attempting to get at Ryan with all his might this Saturday. Against Wake Forest he had seven tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, and several QB hurries. Overall our defense is relatively stout, but Matty Ice will be by far the best QB they've faced. In the ACC, Clemson is 1st in total defense, 6th in rushing defense, 1st in pass defense, and 4th in scoring defense. The Clemson defense will most certainly be rushing the QB often.
BC fans are pretty down in the dumps. The only thing that some of us are clinging to is the Tommy Bowden letdown/hiccup theory. I know it is grasping at straws, but do you guys fear a Tommy screwup this Saturday?
DFIG: The Tigers, in recent memory, have often taken fans' hopes and dashed them against the rocks of failure. I will in no way be surprised if we lose to BC and then SC. Both teams are coming off strings of losses and need to salvage their seasons; BC to get an ACCCG bid and SC to get a bowl bid. That being said, I think this team is more akin to the 2003 Clemson team that rattled off 4 straight wins to finish strong. If Clemson loses Saturday it will not be due to lack of preparation. Our friends on the team say that the Tigers have been staying at film practice longer than usual and putting more work in at practice than usual. I think the team and coaching staff are focused. Again, we've had epic failures before, but I don't think this season will be one of them.
Finally, what is your prediction for the game?
I think Clemson wins by a touchdown. We'll post our official score predictions on Friday.
Taking solace in Spaz's history
As most of you can guess, I am not feeling that great about Saturday. If we cannot stop Maryland's patchwork offense, how are we going to stop Clemson's juggernaut? All I have for reassurance is the man who I've been highly critical of the past two weeks -- Frank Spaziani. We have 8+ seasons of his body of work to examine. He's had plenty of duds over the years, but never two atrocious performances back-to-back*. Does that mean we shut Clemson out this week? No way. But it may mean that we rally the troops enough to make the game interesting. Take a look at Spaz's track record.
-- Has only allowed more than 40 points five times in his 8+ seasons as defensive coordinator
-- 2000 was the only year in which he allowed more than one team to score 40 against BC in one season
-- He has faced Clemson's Offensive Coordinator Rob Spence three times (once as Toledo OC, and twice as Clemson). In those games Spence's offenses scored 25, 13, and 33 points. BC won all three games.
-- He hasn't allowed back-to-back opponents break 30 since 1999
-- Hasn't allowed more than two conference opponents score more than 30 in one season since 2003.
*In 1999, Spaz did allow Colorado to run over us after allowing 38 to VT in the season finale. Those games were six weeks apart and our whole team did not show up for that bowl game.
-- Has only allowed more than 40 points five times in his 8+ seasons as defensive coordinator
-- 2000 was the only year in which he allowed more than one team to score 40 against BC in one season
-- He has faced Clemson's Offensive Coordinator Rob Spence three times (once as Toledo OC, and twice as Clemson). In those games Spence's offenses scored 25, 13, and 33 points. BC won all three games.
-- He hasn't allowed back-to-back opponents break 30 since 1999
-- Hasn't allowed more than two conference opponents score more than 30 in one season since 2003.
*In 1999, Spaz did allow Colorado to run over us after allowing 38 to VT in the season finale. Those games were six weeks apart and our whole team did not show up for that bowl game.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Is the Tommy Bowden meltdown real?
Many programs and coaches have stereotypes. Tommy Bowden is very straight forward -- he's always on the hot seat. The storyline is he either starts off slow putting himself in trouble, only to then close strong or he starts off strong and then falters down the stretch, making him very unpopular in Tigerland. If you talk to enough Clemson fans, you find that they are pretty patient and intelligent football fans and that the Hot Seat is never as hot as the media portrays it. I don't care if Bowden is loved or hated. What I am praying for is another late season meltdown. But is it a real phenomenon or college football myth? Take a look:
19999 (His first year at Clemson.)
Started: 4-4
Down the stretch: 2-2 once the calender hit November.
Meltdown meter: pretty low. This was a good first season.
2000
Started: 8-0
Down the stretch: went 1-3.
Meltdown meter: high. This is how reputations start.
2001
Started: 5-2
Down the stretch: went 2-3 with the two wins coming at Duke and in a Boise bowl.
Meltdown meter: high. Not as bad as 2000, but caused concern.
19999 (His first year at Clemson.)
Started: 4-4
Down the stretch: 2-2 once the calender hit November.
Meltdown meter: pretty low. This was a good first season.
2000
Started: 8-0
Down the stretch: went 1-3.
Meltdown meter: high. This is how reputations start.
2001
Started: 5-2
Down the stretch: went 2-3 with the two wins coming at Duke and in a Boise bowl.
Meltdown meter: high. Not as bad as 2000, but caused concern.
2002
Started: 4-4
Down the stretch: went 3-2 and rallied the Tigers past South Carolina and into a bowl.
Meltdown meter: luke warm. Not a romp at the end, but showed that he could keep things on an even keel after the rough start.
2003
Started: 5-3
Down the stretch: 4-1. One of Bowden's best runs.
Meltdown meter: cold. He beat his dad and Tennessee in the Peach Bowl.
2004
Started: 3-4
Down the stretch: 3-1. He really pulled it out of the fire with this end of the season.
Meltdown meter: cold. The 1-4 start fired up the hot seat talk, but Bowden silenced it with a nice run as the weather got cold.
2005
Started: 4-4
Down the stretch: 4-0.
Meltdown meter: ice cold. Beating FSU, South Carolina and winning your bowl doesn't give your detractors much ammunition.
2006
Started: 7-1
Down the stretch: 1-4
Meltdown meter: hot, hot, hot. I remember how dominant Clemson looked last year. Their only loss was to us on the road in OT. Yet somehow it all fell apart. Can it happen two years in a row?
I don't know if the meltdown is real, but there is a real pattern here: when things are going good, the teams slips up and when things are stormy Bowden rallies. Pray that the pattern holds up this Saturday.
Boxscore breakdown: Florida Atlantic
I did not see BC's win over FAU, so I am left to read the tea leaves of the boxscore and the recaps. Here are my thoughts. (For those who did see the game, feel free to leave your opinions in the comments section.)
Good things
-- Spears scoring with ease. There are easy baskets to make in our offense, if you are patient and know where to be. I hope Spears fills that role.
-- Rice getting others involved. I still fear that he'll try to do too much, but nine assists shows that he is working others into the game.
-- BC continues to get to the line. This has been a strength of Al's teams. As we move towards a more perimeter-focused style, I worried that we wouldn't get to the line as often. So far, so good.
Good things
-- Spears scoring with ease. There are easy baskets to make in our offense, if you are patient and know where to be. I hope Spears fills that role.
-- Rice getting others involved. I still fear that he'll try to do too much, but nine assists shows that he is working others into the game.
-- BC continues to get to the line. This has been a strength of Al's teams. As we move towards a more perimeter-focused style, I worried that we wouldn't get to the line as often. So far, so good.
Concerns
-- Roche goes cold again. He needs to prove he is a great shooter in games. Right now he just seems like a streaky shooter.
-- Perimeter defense. New faces, same issues. I guess we are going to continue to allow teams to take and make a ton of threes. Our guys are going to have to step up on the defensive boards.
-- Sanders' minutes. He wasn't in foul trouble and was very productive. Why so few minutes?
Overall
It is still very early, but I like how the freshmen are playing. This season may be more fun than we expected.
Tuesday roundup
Here is the ACC Nation podcast. They had me on to talk about the football team's recent struggles and give a brief preview of the Clemson game.
Here is a very nice article on former football player Jim Unis. It shows what a BC education can do for guys whose careers are cut short by injury.
Clemson's offensive line is banged up.
This article focuses on the rebuilding job going on at Morristown-Beard in New Jersey, but has a great quote about future Eagle Colin Larmond:
"Colin Larmond ... there is nothing else I could say about him," Romano said. "If he is not a first-team all-state receiver, I need to see who is. Teams are triple-teaming him. St. Mary's had a corner in his face, a linebacker walking up to him and a safety behind Colin."
The Miami game is at noon and potentially on ESPN U. Keep your fingers crossed that they put in on ESPN 2 for those of us who will be on the road and scrambling to find a sports bar with the ESPN U.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Monday links
As many of you could have predicted, the amount of press BC gets has fallen off dramatically.
The basketball team has a game Monday night against Florida Atlantic. I'll try to do a boxscore breakdown after. Pictures of the event are always welcome.
Andy Katz likes Biko Paris [the reference is about half way down]. If Katz likes Paris that means the staff is very high on him too.
Future BC WR Colin Larmond is having a big season as his team continues to be the New Jersey high school postseason Cinderella.
The baseball team hired a new assistant.
Blogpoll ballot
My poll is a mess and I have no idea where to put BC. One thing I do know -- Kansas is a clear No. 1. They have earned it in every way. I hope they run the table.
Games I watched
BC-Maryland 100% (twice)
Louisville-West Virginia 50%
Clemson-Wake Forest 50%
UNC-NC State 50%
Georgia-Auburn 25%
Notre Dame-Air Force 25%
Alabama-Mississippi State 25%
Games I watched
BC-Maryland 100% (twice)
Louisville-West Virginia 50%
Clemson-Wake Forest 50%
UNC-NC State 50%
Georgia-Auburn 25%
Notre Dame-Air Force 25%
Alabama-Mississippi State 25%
| Rank | Team | Delta |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kansas |  1 |
| 2 | LSU | 4 |
| 3 | Missouri | 2 |
| 4 | Oklahoma |  1 |
| 5 | Oregon | 1 |
| 6 | Arizona State | 1 |
| 7 | Ohio State | 6 |
| 8 | West Virginia | 1 |
| 9 | Clemson | 2 |
| 10 | Virginia Tech | 3 |
| 11 | Virginia | 3 |
| 12 | Georgia | -- |
| 13 | Southern Cal | 3 |
| 14 | Hawaii | 1 |
| 15 | Brigham Young | 11 |
| 16 | Boston College | 8 |
| 17 | Cincinnati | 3 |
| 18 | Connecticut | 8 |
| 19 | Tennessee | 7 |
| 20 | Illinois | 4 |
| 21 | Boise State | 3 |
| 22 | Florida | 4 |
| 23 | Kentucky | 3 |
| 24 | Texas | 7 |
| 25 | Wisconsin | 1 |
Dropped Out: Michigan (#19), Auburn (#21), Wake Forest (#22), Florida State (#23), Houston (#25).
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