OSG Buzzer Beater: A 3 At The Buzzer Lifts Utah Over New Mexico

There were a few impressive buzzer beaters Saturday in college basketball. This is the only one with video the OSG HQ could find. We think its pretty good.

The Runnin' Utes' Chris Hines launched a bomb as time expired and the bank was open on Saturday giving Utah a 62-60 win over Nex Mexico.

Here are the highlights. (Thanks KSL-TV)

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

TWTW: Utah Holds Off BYU 17-16

((HT: KSL-TV Salt Lake City))

Brandon Burton came around the edge and blocked a 42-yard field goal attempt by BYU's Mitch Payne as time expired to lift the Utes to a heart-stopping 17-16 come-from-behind victory over BYU on Saturday in front of 45,272 fans at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake.

Rod Zundel gets his time in front of his new-fangled green screen...

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

TWTW: I Guess We Follow TCU Now...???

((HT: KSL-TV Salt Lake City))

Only in the sense of the idea that they'd be the prime non Automatic Qualifier to get an at-large bid for the college football alphabet games...

There was wanton destruction of Utah today, but instead of it being in Fort Worth it was at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

TCU exorcised all their road WAC-based demons in this one, winning 47-7...

Sarah Dallof does a very unpopular fan piece and live shot...

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Andy Dalton passed for a career-high 355 yards and 3TD's, and receiver Jeremy Kerley, a quarterback in high school, even threw a TD pass as the fourth-ranked Horned Frogs, now 10-0/6-0 in the Mountain West Conference, jumped out to an early 20-0 lead, quieting a sellout crowd dressed in black for a "blackout" game.

Didn't Georgia teach you about that one...???

By halftime, the Horned Frogs had outgained Utah 328-72 for a 23-0 lead. The loss snapped Utah's 21-game home winning streak and dropped the Utes to 8-1/5-1.

Shame this rivalry goes its separate ways...

TWTW: Utah Holds Off Air Force 28-23

((HT: KSL-TV Salt Lake City))

And they'll probably move up in the alphabet standings in the next version of their poll.

Utah's defense forced five turnovers and stopped Air Force twice on downs in the fourth quarter, as the 8th-ranked Utes held off the Falcons for a 28-23 win to set up their showdown with the probably-changing Number 4 TCU.

The Utes, now 8-0/5-0 in the Mountain West, had a 28-10 lead in the fourth quarter. That's not really a surprise as the last 13 games against the Falcons, now 5-4/3-3, have been decided by double digits, and last season's game went into overtime before the Utes won that one.

Start your TCU talk now...

Rod Zundel stands in front of his green screen again...

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

TWTW: Utah Stays Perfect Despite Itself

((HT: KSL-TV Salt Lake City))

Jordan Wynn passed for 230 yards and two touchdowns, and Matt Asiata ran for 109 yards as Utah beat Wyoming 30-6 on Saturday. But Wynn also tossed three interceptions, including two in the end zone...

Safe to say, with a minus-6 in turnover margin, Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham was a little more than angry...

"Our turnover margin this year has been abysmal," Whittingham said.

"I was just careless with the ball," said Wynn. "You can't force it into coverage. It won't happen again. I won't throw three interceptions again."

The Utes, now 6-0, get Colorado State before a run against against Air Force, TCU and Notre Dame.

Here's your highlights with Rod Zundel sporting purple in front of a green screen...

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

CFB Preview 2010: Mountain West Conference Football

The Mountain West Conference has accomplished all it can to state their claim to be included in the BCS. It’s just a matter of time before the powers that be finally allow the MWC to join. Utah has decided to take matters into their own hands and joined the Pac 10 Conference thus ensuring the Utes BCS status.

This MWC will crash the BCS party again this year but don’t expect it to go further than that.

TCU Horned Frogs

2009 Record: 12-1

Things To Like About TCU: What’s not to like. The Horned Frogs have the best quarterback in the MWC, Andy Dalton, the best receivers, offensive line and even with the loss of Jerry Hughes the best defense in the conference.

Things Not To Like About TCU: If there is a weakness with the Frogs it’s the running backs and even that is grasping at straws. Matthew Tucker is a dependable back and should get most of the carries.

OSG’s Take: This might be Gary Patterson’s best Horned Frog team in 10 years in Ft. Worth. TCU has a pair of games against BCS teams in the D/FW metroplex, Oregon State to open the season September 4th in Jerry World (Cowboys Stadium) and hosting former Southwest Conference rival Baylor September 18th. TCU’s schedule sets up nicely for a showdown with Utah November 6th in Salt Lake City and that might be for a BCS invite.

TCU can run the table this year and that will be enough to crash the BCS party again. That’s as far as it goes for the Frogs.

Wilkie: TCU would be favored to win five of the six BCS conferences. This team is awesome. 12-0 and expect cries from Ft. Worth to include the Frogs in the BCS title game.

Nelson: What Wilkie said... let the crying start anew...

Phil: Ditto. Even if they lose 1 of the "Big Boy" games, they are just better than everyone else.

Utah Utes 2009 Record: 10-3

Utah has the talent and a favorable MWC schedule to challenge TCU for the conference title. What might do the Utes in is their non-conference schedule, lets just say it’s a doozy.

Things To Like About Utah: Matt Asiata returns to the Ute backfield after missing most of 2009 with an ACL tear. With Asiata paired with Eddie Wide Utah has a nice running back combo. With Jordan Wynn under center the Utah offense will put some points on the board. On defense Brandon Burton is all over the field and has next level skills. Another big plus, TCU and BYU must come to Salt Lake City this year.

This Not To Like About Utah: Utah’s starting linebackers from last season are gone. One who returned, Nai Fotu, tore his ACL this spring. Utah might be challenged in stopping the run.

OSG’s Take: Utah has definitely upgraded their schedule opening the season hosting Pittsburgh. The Utes also have a pair of road games against BCS opponents on the schedule, at Iowa State and a November 13th trip to South Bend, Indiana to face the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. Those games might bite the Utes on the backside.

Utah’s league schedule though much more kind. The Utes have TCU and BYU at home so a BCS invite might be a no go but a conference championship is a possibility.

Wilkie: I’m thinking 9-3 is realistic for Utah. Should the Utes get defeat TCU and BYU then their final MWC season might included a conference championship.

Nelson: Since TCU is headed to the BCS, looks like Utah gets to go to Las Vegas to take on a Pac-10 opponent... Does anyone else sense the irony there...??? Losing a school-record six draft picks won't be easy to counteract...

Phil: Yeah, schedule even tougher than TCU's. Good, not great team. 9-3

BYU Cougars

2009 Record 11 – 2

The Cougars return seven starters on offense however one of those it not Max Hall but the BYU offense should be great again. There is still a lot of weapons there.

Things To Like About BYU: BYU likes to sling it around and the Cougars have some talent at receiver. The offensive line anchored by Matt Reynolds is outstanding. Three of four starters in the secondary returns.

Things Not To Like About BYU: The inexperience at quarterback is a concern. True freshman Jake Heaps may get the call. The defense is in rebuilding mode with only five starters returning. The schedule is a killer. Road games at Florida State, at TCU and at Utah for the final holy war is a lot to over come.

OSG’s Take: Teams in college football that are going through an overall could go either way. In BYU’s case they will be OK. The offense will be fine. It might take a few games for the defense to find its identity. The Cougars won’t get to high nor too low, that’s head coach Bronco Mendenhall’s style and his team reflects his personality.

Wilkie: I do not like BYU’s schedule which will prevent the Cougars a shot at the MWC crown. 8-4 this year for the Cougars.

Nelson: Yeah, and most of those four losses could come early. If Jake Heaps is the starter at QB, how will the highly-touted freshman respond after those first four games...? I still think 9-3...

Phil: Another good, not great team. 8-4...but only if Heaps develops quickly.

Air Force Falcons

2009 Record: 8-5

Air Force may not be the sexy pic TCU, Utah and BYU are in the MWC however the Falcons consistently string together eight to nine wins and get a bowl invite. If a few things go the Falcons’ way an improvement in the win total might be coming.

Things To Like About Air Force: Jared Tew and Asher Clark are a pair of running backs that could get 1,000 yards each. The defensive back field is outstanding. Last year in the Armed Forces Bowl, AFA picked off six Case Keenum passes. Anthony Wright and Reggie Rembert are as talented pair of corners that you will see in this conference

Things Not To Like About Air Force: Like service academy FBS schools the offensive line is undersized but couple that with five brand new starters this is a big concern. Only three starters return on the Falcons’ defensive front so stopping the run might be an issue.

OSG’s Take: Nothing changes in Colorado Springs. Air Force will be the constant pain in the back side to TCU, Utah and BYU, the latter two are home games by the way. The MWC championship won’t happen however, regaining the Commander in Chief Trophy from Navy just might.

Wilkie: If Air Force goes 2-1 against the MWC’s big three (Utah, BYU & TCU) it could be a special year in Colorado Springs however, the Falcons are 2-15 against the “3” since 2004 and I’m willing to bet that won’t happen. Winning 8 games and going bowling will.

Nelson: I still think Navy has the inside track on the CoC trophy. I can't wait to see what ACC team takes these guys on in Shreveport... talk about a headache.

Phil: The traditional team everyone is scared to play. In this conference, they don't have the horses to run with TCU and Utah...but a good team never the less. 7-5

San Diego State Aztecs

2009 Record 4-8

After hitting rock bottom in 2008 San Diego State had a nice rebound last year going 4-8 in Brady Hoke’s first year. Expect the Aztecs to continue to improve as Hoke upgrades the talent.

Things To Like About San Diego State: The Aztecs have a quarterback. Ryan Lindley was outstanding last year and his go to guys return too. Wide Receiver DeMarco Sampson was 3rd in the MWC in receiving last year and has NFL talent. The other wide out Vincent Brown could have gone pro but stayed at SDSU. Combined Sampson and Brown could be the best pair of receivers in the MWC.

Things Not To Like About San Diego State: The defense had issues stopping the run last year plus allowing way to many big plays. Only returning 1 starter at linebacker may not help that cause. Lindley must cut down in his interceptions, he threw 16 last year and while we are on the subject of the Aztec offense, who will be the featured back. SDSU received no help from the running backs last year. True freshman Ronnie Hillman will be counted on to give the running game a boost.

OSG’s Take: San Diego State is a program moving up the MWC food chain. The offense can put points on the board. The defense will need to make some stops for SDSU to go to a bowl game for the first time in 12 years.

Wilkie: Is San Diego State better? yes. Will they be bowl eligible? I say so. 6-6 and a bowl game.

Nelson: Sounds about right at 6-6 even as they score a lot of points. I think the New Mexico Bowl will pick the Aztecs over Wyoming for 2010 and send the next team to lose a game against C-USA or Army in the Armed Forces.

Phil: Agreed. Like the improvement. Probably shouldn't be a bowl team yet, but at 6-6, it's enough.

Wyoming Cowboys 2009 Record 7-6

Last year you could call Wyoming the Comeback Cowboys. 5 of their 7 wins were fourth quarter comebacks. I’m sure this year Wyoming would like to not live on the edge as much.

Things To Like About Wyoming: Quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels become the first Cowboy to earn MWC Freshman of the Year honors. Carta-Samuels will only get better as a sophomore. Brian Hendricks is back to anchor the Wyoming linebackers. Though Hendricks is the only returning starter at that position he can carry the load until the unit gels. Cowboy head coach Dave Christensen loves the Wyoming secondary. Chris Prosinski was second in the MWC in tackles per game at 10.6 from his free safety position and the Gipson brothers, Marcell and Tashaun, have NFL potential according to Christensen.

Things Not To Like About Wyoming: When in the game Wyoming was good at closing the deal, however, they never put anyone away early in the game with the exception of winning big over New Mexico. Then again the Lobos were easy prey. The Cowboys were blown out four times last year. The defensive line lost three starters so their will be some drop off. The receivers need to step up for Wyoming’s offense to click.

OSG’s Take: Wyoming is one of those teams that doesn’t get much respect when the season starts but overachieves and wins a few they were not suppose to. This year the Cowboys have home games against future MWC foe Boise State and so to be former MWC Utah that might put the Cowboys on the radar screen. The Cowboys will overachieve again but I’m sure Coach Christensen would like the Cowboys to have a few convincing wins in the bank.

Wilkie: I’m going to say Wyoming wins seven games and pulls off an upset too.

Nelson: 6-6 is about right for the Cowboys, too. Having Carta-Samuels around for another year helps immensely. But having games at TCU, hosting Utah, and going to BYU will kill them as they try and improve that 107th-ranked offense.

Phil: The law of averages will catch up to them. Without offense, they can't compete in this conference. I say losing season...5-7

Colorado State Rams 2009 Record 3-9

After a tough 2009 season in which the Rams had to endure injuries to key players there is optimism in Fort Collins. After all, things couldn’t be as bad as last year.

Things To Like About Colorado State: The Rams go five deep at running back. UCLA transfer Raymond Carter will headline the unit along with the M&M boys, Jon Mosure and Leonard Mason. Mosure and Mason finished in the six in the MWC in rushing last year. A pair of true freshman Chris Nwoke and Lou Greenwood are in the mix. The Linebackers are solid led by Mychal Sisson.

Things To Not Like About Colorado State: True freshman Pete Thomas is expected to win the quarterback job. You always are concerned when a true freshman leads your team. The offensive line only returns one starter so with the potential of a freshman quarterback and an inexperienced offensive line it’s not an ideal situation. The receivers are new and will need to be productive.

OSG’s Take: This team will be much better that last season and yes they will win a conference game, maybe more. It all depends on how productive the offense will be. The defense will keep the Rams in the game.

Wilkie: I like the way Steve Fairchild is doing things in Fort Collins. Last year was a fluke. Colorado State will be much improved however six wins looks to be the max.

Nelson: Steve Fairchild is quoted as saying that 3-9 "will not happen again." It will happen again... Freshman quarterbacks, while a good idea in the long-term are disastrous more often than not in the short-term.

Phil: What Jon said, plus that Freshman QB, behind a brand new line spells trouble. 3-9

UNLV Rebels

2009 5-7

There’s a new coach on the strip. Bobby Hauck takes over after a highly successful tenure at Montana. Hauck will have plenty of talent to work with in his first year with the Rebels.

Things To Like About UNLV: It starts with a Hauck who was a great hire for the Rebels. Though two year starter Omar Clayton must learn a new system and take snaps under center he can adjust. There is talent at the skill positions and the offensive line returns four starters. The linebackers Starr Fuimaono and Ronnie Paulo are the anchors of a defense that might benefit from a change in philosophy.

Things Not To Like About UNLV: The defense has underachieved the last two years and their biggest problem has been not creating turnovers. While the defensive line returns two starters is hasn’t consistently put pressure on the quarterback. The schedule is brutal. Road trips to Utah, West Virginia and BYU are on the 2010 agenda.

OSG’s Take: The Rebels will be better but it probably won’t reflect in their won-loss record. Opening the season hosting Wisconsin and then road games at Utah and at Idaho isn’t the best start for the Hauck era. Get UNLV then because you don’t want to play the Rebels in November.

Wilkie: I knew Bobby Hauck back when he was a assistant coach at Northern Arizona so under full disclosure I am openly rooting for UNLV. The Rebels will struggle at the beginning but I wouldn’t be surprised if UNLV closes the season winning four in a row. They won’t be bowl eligible this year but the future in bright on the strip. 5-8 is the number.

Nelson: The defense only returns four, they're playing 13 games and you think five wins...??? Dude... The defense was 115th nationally and they're only bringing back four...

Four... that might be the number of wins...

Phil: They will struggle. Things will get better, but not this year. 3-10

New Mexico Lobos

2009 Record 1-11

The Lobos were dogs last year. Mike Locksley changed the entire scheme at New Mexico with very disappointing results. To add insult to injury he punched one of his assistant coaches and was suspended for 10 days. No place to go but up in Albuquerque.

Things To Like About New Mexico: There’s not much here to like about the Lobos. There quarterback might be true freshman Tarean Austin so that’s a concern. The defense gave up a ton of points and yards. New Mexico can boast and pretty decent defensive line with Illinois transfer Reggie Ellis joining the Lobos and landing four star recruit Calvin Smith, who chose New Mexico over Alabama, Florida and Notre Dame.

Things Not To Like About New Mexico: Too many to list.

OSG’s Take: New Mexico is years away from a winning season and a long way from contending in the MWC.

Wilkie: If New Mexico wins a game I will be amazed.

Nelson: Locksley should have been fired. Maybe after another one-win season, he'll get fired anyway...

Phil: If Locksley survived last season, he can't survive this. Bottom of the Barrel contender. 1-11

Mountain West Champion:

Wilkie: TCU

Nelson: TCU

Phil: TCU

Offensive Player Of The Year:

Wilkie: Andy Dalton – TCU

Nelson: The name's "Dalton..."

Phil: Vincent Brown- SDSU

Defensive Player Of The Year

Wilkie: Tank Carder - TCU

Nelson: Carder... this is easy...

Phil: Carder in a landslide

DEVELOPING STORY: Utah Makes It A 12-Pac

((HT: KSL-TV))

It's official... Utah is moving, and they want to move quickly from one conference to another. Colorado wants in for the 2012 season, but the Utes want in by 2011.

Utah will increase its current television revenue from $1.2 million per year to between $8 million - $10 million per year. Even more money could come with a TV contract renegotiation.... and the HQ knows it will...

Here's your set-up piece from our friends at KSL-TV, Kathy Aiken is in front of their lectern at the university...

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

More when we have more from Utah...

Utah To Pac-10/11 Sooner Than Later...???

Utah athletic director Dr. Chris Hill is not commenting on possible expansion to the Pac-10/11 ((or anywhere else for that matter)), but speculation all over the country is that Utah will become the 12th team in the Pac-10

Or the 10/12...

Or whatever in the hell they're going to call it...

Lya Wodraska of the Salt Lake City Tribune newspaper has a yes, a no, or a maybe...

A report is out that the Pac-10 will extend an invitation to Utah and a press conference is expected Wednesday. However, John Henderson from the Denver Post just spoke directly to Pac-10 commissioner Larry Scott who denied the report.

In addition, MWC officials I just spoke with said they have not received any notification from Utah that it is leaving and Utah associate athletic director Liz Abel said there was "nothing new to report."

As Wodraska admits, there's probably degrees of truth in all of the above...

Here's coverage from Dana Greene and ABC4 in Salt Lake City...

OSG College Football 2009 Predictions: Mountain West Conference

TCU Horned Frogs

2008 Record: 11-2 Overall, 7-1 In The MWC
Defeated Boise State 17-16 In The Poinsettia Bowl

Things to Like About TCU:

Explosive Offense: This is a group that gobbles chunks of yards thanks to a constant rotation of fresh legs are running back. The Frogs can go 5 deep at the running back position. Ryan Christian, Joseph Turner, Chris Smith, Jai Caveness, and Edward Wesley are a fabulous Frog five some at running back.

A Bounce to Their Step: This was a confident team during spring workouts. The Horned Frogs feel as if 2009 is their watershed year to crash the BCS party.

Things Not To Like About TCU:

Passing Game: Not that it’s a glaring weakness but there is really no need to air it out with a 5 productive RB’s in your offense. It the Frogs show any improvement throwing the ball watch out.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: TCU is poised to take a seat at the BCS table. For that to happen the Frogs have to win at least one of their non-conference games vs a BCS opponent on the road. TCU opens at Virginia and that’s a winnable game. The other is a Clemson’s Death Valley and that could be a chore. TCU plays Utah in Ft. Worth but must travel to Provo to battle BYU. If things fall into place the Frogs could be hopping into the BCS.

Phil: Good team in an OK conference. They will be a tough out for anyone but a win in Death Valley may be asking too much. One loss means no BCS, but one loss will get them a nice bowl game. Solid season, best of conference.

Nelson: While I think TCU may be the class of the conference, for them to be in the BCS, they’re going to have to run the table. That means winning at Clemson and not falling down when they play the state of Utah. If it’s anywhere, it’s Clemson and Provo.

That won’t put them in the Rose Bowl.

BYU Cougars

2008 Record: 10-3 Overall, 6-2 In The MWC
Lost to Arizona 31-21 In The Las Vegas Bowl

Things to Like About BYU:

Max Hall: If BYU enjoyed BCS status it wouldn’t be a surprise if Hall was on the same level with Tim Tebow, Sam Bradford and Colt McCoy. Hall continues the long line of great BYU quarterbacks. When Hall is on BYU is close to unbeatable.

Tight Ends: The Cougars have a pair of tight ends that are highly skilled. Dennis Pitta has a great set of hands and can be Max Hall’s go to guy. He caught 83 balls last year for 1,083 yards. Pitta’s back up Andrew George has a different skill set be could start elsewhere. George is more of a mid-range receiver and can be a perfect safety valve for Hall when under pressure.

Things Not To Like About BYU:

The Secondary: This is the key. They struggled last year. If safeties Scott Johnson and Andrew Rich come up big, then no worries. Depth though will be an issue.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: This is my pick to win the MWC. BYU’s offense will be awesome. The Cougars defense that struggled at the end of 2008 should be better. BYU opens with Oklahoma at the new Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas and I give the Cougars a chance in that one. BYU also hosts Florida State in Provo and I wouldn’t be surprised to the Cougars won that one. Both Utah and TCU must come to Provo so I can definitely see an 11 win season, an MWC Championship and a possible BCS bowl for the Cougars.

Phil: Again a very good team in an OK conference. They will win most of their games but I don’t think they will beat Oklahoma or Free Shoes U. Having TCU and Utah come to them will help, but they will be a heartbeat away from the title. Good bowl game though.

Nelson: And with Hall, this is why my money is on the Cougs to get the BCS-Kicking-and-Screaming Invite this year. Simply, if the offense has to outscore people to go undefeated, they’ll do just that.

Utah Utes

2008 Record: 13-0 Overall, 8-0 In The Mountain West
Defeated Alabama 31-17 In The Sugar Bowl

Things to Like About Utah:

Offensive Line: A tremendous group led by 6-4, 305 pound OT Zane Beadles

Offensive Weapons: Though the Utes lost 3 of their top receivers the Utes have reloaded led by David Reed who could be the star of the group and Aiona Key is just as good. That duo may not be proven yet; but the playmaking ability is there.

Been There, Done That: Utah is becoming a program that expects to earn BCS bowl bids. The Utes have played in 2 already and have won both. If the program is copping an attitude; that’s not a bad thing.

Things Not To Like About Utah:

Quarterback: Brian Johnson was the heart of the Utes under center but he has moved on. Corbin Louks was Johnson’s back up last year but didn’t win the job outright during spring ball. Terrance Cain was the national JUCO offensive player of the year and might be the man for the Utes. Their success is critical for Utah to repeat.

Schedule: Utah must play MWC rivals TCU and BYU on the road this year.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: While Utah has talent to replace 10 starters that were lost from unbeaten team in 2008. Both with Oregon, BYU and TCU on the road and had to replace both coordinators. I can see a step back for Utah but not by much.

Phil: This is the “rebuilding” year for these guys. They will be good, but will struggle early on. As the season goes, they will improve and look for 2010 to be a strong one. Middle of the pack and an outside shot at a bowl

Nelson: All the losses due to graduation are what will cause the Utes to lose out for second in the conference with more than one loss. Everyone loses to BYU; I think Utah loses to TCU. A good year, but a recovery year for Kyle Whittingham here…

Air Force Falcons

2008 Record: 8-5 Overall, 5-3 in The Mountain West
Lost To Houston 34-28 in the Armed Forces Bowl

Things to Like About Air Force:

Defensive Backs: This foursome can be fearsome. They can pick and punish. They are a very physical group.

Running Backs: Best collective RB unit in the MWC but only if Asher Clark stays at TB. Clark is competing for the QB position during fall camp.

Offensive Line: A seasoned group that returns 3 starters.

Things Not To Like About Air Force:

Front 7: The Falcons lost both DE’s this season so their will be pressure on the LB’s to generate a pass rush.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Air Force never impresses you but they hang around to win 7-8 games and make a bowl. They won’t complete for the MWC crown but the Falcons will reach a bowl game.

Phil: The true definition of a “Pain in the Ass” team. Good, solid and well coached, they will give everyone fits. The thing that usually gets them is the lack of depth…and size. They are good enough that nobody wants to mess with them but in the Mountain West they are middle to upper middle class. Possible bowl team.

Nelson: Air Force is like that bug that you can’t find the right spray to keep away from the picnic table. You keep waving your hand in front of your face to keep the triple-option away from your hot dogs and coleslaw, but the Falcons never listen. Consistently, a solid football team, but there are teams in the conference that are just plain better… A return trip to Fort Worth may be in the cards here.


UNLV Rebels

2008 Record: 5-7 Overall, 2-6 In The MWC

Things to Like About UNLV:

14 Starters Return: There is experience and they are motivated. The Rebels missed out of a bowl bid by losing their last game of the year to San Diego State. For those returning they want to wash out that bad taste in their mouths.

Receivers: Ryan Wolfe and Phillip Payne might be the best receiver combo in the MWC.

Things Not To Like About UNLV:

Running Back: Punishing RB Frank “The Tank” Summers has moved on. Now the Rebels must find a RB that can handle a heavy workload.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: 6-6 and a bowl game for UNLV

Phil: They just aren’t very interesting. The best part of playing them is getting a trip to Las Vegas. There just is only so much talent here. They don’t have the firepower to compete with the big boys. I agree with what Wilkie says, but they could be 4-8 just as easily.

Nelson: What do you want to bet that Game 13 will be either at home or in New Mexico…??? Just thinking…

Colorado State Rams

2008 Record: 7-6 Overall, 4-4 in The Mountain West

Things to Like About Colorado State:

Offensive Line: The most experienced O-line in college football. All but one starter is a senior. They might be among the best in the MWC.

Receivers: Rashaun Greer and Dion Morton are playmakers

Things Not To Like About Colorado State:

Defense: So many issues there. Only 5 returning starters and with injuries in spring ball and suspensions the numbers are small. The front 7 could be a major issue.

Schedule: Colorado State’s first 3 MWC games are at BYU, hosting Utah and at TCU. 0-3 is possible.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: If the defense can work through their issues then the Rams have a chance to make it back to a bowl game this year. 6 wins the max for the Rams.

Phil: We will know what they’ve got very early. I don’t see them being capable of making a statement there. The depth on the “D” will bite them in the ass. This is a bottom 1/3 of the conference team this year.

Nelson: What do you want to bet that Game 13 will be either in Las Vegas or New Mexico…??? Just thinking…

New Mexico Lobos

2008: Record 4-8 Overall, 2-6 in the MWC

Things to Like About New Mexico:

New Coach: Mike Locksley has work to do but he’s known to get talented players.

Things Not To Like About New Mexico:

Everything: The offense can’t throw touchdown passes, the running game is weak and the defense is a mess.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: The annual in-state battle against New Mexico State might be the Lobos only shot at a win this year.

Phil: Well, supposedly New Mexico is a very scenic place to visit. The food is supposed to be very good as well. I hear that the Green Chiles are well worth trying.

Nelson: Locksley has to hope that all the nonsense ((sorry, alleged nonsense)) that occurred early in his tenure is behind him and not a distraction. I think the question will be: Who will be worse…? These guys or the next team on the list…

San Diego State Aztecs

2008 Record: 2-10 Overall, 1-7 in the MWC

Things to Like About SDSU:

Quarterback: If Ryan Lindley has any consistency this year the Aztec offense may not be that bad. SDSU might win some games too.

Brady Hoke: The new SDSU head coach will bring some much needed enthusiasm.

Things Not To Like About SDSU:

Linebackers and Defensive Backs: The LB’s will be asked to blitz more so improvement can happen. The DB’s were not that good last year but they have bought into new DC Rocky Long’s system the most.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: 1998 was the last time San Diego State had a winning season and that streak continues Aztec fans.

Phil: Well, things could be worse. They aren’t New Mexico. There are at least a few glimmers of hope with these guys. Will they have a winning record…uh HELL no. But they will be better. They have a decent coach and some talent. 3-4 wins will be considered a success here.

Nelson: Does Marshall Faulk have any eligibility left and why did Brady Hoke take this job…???

Wyoming Cowboys

2008 Record: 4-8 Overall, 1-7 in the MWC

Things to Like About Wyoming:

New Coach, New Attitude: Dave Christensen takes over in Laramie and will bring the no huddle, up tempo spread offense that made a star out of Chase Daniel at Missouri.

Defense: If they develop a pass rush this Cowboy “D” has a chance to keep Wyoming in some games.

Things Not To Like About Wyoming:

Offense: They were pretty bad last year. The passing game was 114th in the nation last year and the running game got worse for 2009.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: The deer and the antelope won’t be the only ones roaming in Wyoming. Dave Christensen is bringing his high powered offense to the prairie but it remains to be seen how the Pokes will take to this new fangled offense. 4 wins is about the max for the Cowboys.

Phil: Meh! They will be very similar to SDSU. There is some potential here, but they will struggle early. If the coaching takes; they will be competitive later in the season, but patience young Cowboys…success takes time, you have a long way to go to catch up with your brethren.

Nelson: But, Wilkie, I think they’ll take four wins considering the rebuilding job that has to go on here in Laramie. I think a lot of people wish Joe Tiller was still coach.
That’s how long it’s been- brown corduroy hats with yellow cursive lettering were “in” the last time there was any real success on the field.


OSG’s Take on the Mountain West Conference:

MWC Champion:

Wilkie: BYU
Phil: TCU
Nelson: BYU

Best Offensive Player in The MWC:

Wilkie: Max Hall – BYU
Phil: Uh…Hall
Nelson: Hall

Best Defensive Player in The MWC:

Wilkie: Jerry Hughes – TCU
Phil: Hughes
Nelson: Hughes

Utah Legislature Wants A College Football Playoff

The state of Utah striking while the iron is hot wants a college football playoff so their beloved Utes don't get screwed again.

The Utah State Senate unanimously approved a resolution calling for a national college football playoff system in lieu of the BCS. The bill aims to "address what some Utah football fans considered an unforgivable slight when the team did not get a chance to play for a national championship this year, despite being the only undefeated Division 1-A team in the country."

After the senate vote, the Utes were honored by both chambers of the Utah state government.

Utah Senate President Michael Waddoups, a BYU graduate said, "On a day like this even Cougars can be Utes."

Now that is bi-partisan times 2. Not only can Democrats and Republicans agree on that bill but even BYU fans are joining Utah fans recognizing what the Utes accomplished.

There's hope for Washington if they can get it right in Salt Lake City.

The question around the OSG HQ is why is the Utah state government getting involved. Sure its a big deal in the Beehive State but aren't there other pressing issues that need to be addressed? School funding, road projects, etc. You can kick and scream all the want to but the lords of the BCS aren't interested as long as the checks keep coming in.

The Mtn. Should Rise To The Top

Utah's 31-17 win over Alabama reinforces to me that the Mountain West Conference deserves BCS status. The league went 6-2 against the Pac 10 this year easily becoming the best league west of the Rockies.

TCU can play with anyone. BYU has the tradition and the brand name in the conference. Bronco Mendenhall has the Cougars back elite status (at least in non - BCS circles). Colorado State won the New Mexico Bowl giving the MWC a 3-1 record during bowl season. The Rams seem to be back on the rise.

Now Utah's win over Alabama should put the stamp of approval on BCS status to the MWC. The Utes came out confident, executed their offense and stunned the Crimson Tide with their speed on the edges on defense sacking John Parker Wilson 9 times.

In other words, Utah didn't come out scared and completely overmatched like Hawaii did a year ago.

Should that move come at the expense of another league? Sure, take the Big East Conference for example. What have they done lately outside of West Virginia?

Will that happen? Probably not. To many large media markets in the Big East Conference. The powers that be and those who write very large checks won't let it happen.

Enjoy your year Mountain West Conference on the football field. You have done all the right things to move up in the college football food chain and you should.

Photo Courtesy: Chris Detrick/The Salt Lake Tribune

It's Ute-opia In Utah. Utes Roll Over The Tide In Sugar Bowl

Let's see, the Alabama Crimson Tide race out to 12 straight wins and top the college football polls. Then the Tide run out gas losing to Florida in the SEC Championship Game and a month later, are stunned by the Utah Utes 31-17 in the Sugar Bowl.

"We didn't finish the season like we wanted, and I'm sorry for that for them." Alabama head coach Nick Saban said. "I think they deserved better. We wanted better for them. And we failed them in not being able to help them get where they needed to get so they could have a chance to be successful in this game. That's to take nothing away from Utah. They played great. Their quarterback was great. We didn't match up with them very well in the secondary, didn't get him covered like we needed to, didn't get enough pressure, got off to a horrible start and just didn't overcome it very well."

For Utah, this is their biggest win ever. Head coach Kyle Whittingham said on the podium to Fox Sports' Chris Myers that he was voting the Utes #1 in the polls. Will the other polls follow remains to be seen but the Utes have staked a claim going 13 - 0 and the only undefeated team in the FBS. Just to enhance Utah's 2008 resume, they have wins over the Big 10 (Michigan), the Pac 10 (Oregon State) and now the SEC (Alabama), all BCS schools.

You can check out Fox 13 coverage out of Salt Lake City right here.

KSL-TV's coverage of Utah's Sugar Bowl win can be viewed by clicking right here.

Photo Courtesy: AP

BCS Standings

1. Alabama (11-0) .9787
2. Texas Tech (10-0) .9698
3. Texas (10-1) .8911
4. Florida (9-1) .8755
5. Oklahoma (9-1) .8388
6. So. California (9-1) .7873
7. Utah (11-0) .7643
8. Penn State (10-1) .6957
9. Boise State (10-0) .6559
10. Ohio State (9-2) .6154
11. Georgia (9-2) .6129
12. Oklahoma State (9-2) .5672
13. Missouri (9-2) .5600
14. Brigham Young (10-1) .4393
15. Michigan State (9-2) .4021
16. Texas Christian (9-2) .3858
17. Ball State (10-0) .3673
18. LSU (7-3) .2727
19. Cincinnati (8-2) .2594
20. Pittsburgh (7-2) .2171
21. Oregon State (7-3) .2027
22. North Carolina (7-3) .1329
23. Miami (Fla.) (7-3) .1023
24. Oregon (8-3) .0630
25. Maryland (7-3) .0550

What Is A Ute...?

Someone who's 6-0 and still banging on that BCS door...
This is how teams like Utah stay in the Top 25 and why teams that are close stay only close...

((HT: Versus/the youtube))

Joe Beninati and Glenn Parker on the call...
Enjoy...

Outside Looking In; The Mountain West Conference Deserves BCS Status.

As the college football season moves along the conversation among fans and sports talkers on the radio is whose the baddest conference of them all. Yes, the SEC can stake that claim with 5 teams in the top 5 of the AP college football poll. Based on the SEC’s research, that has never happened before in the league plus, the SEC totals about 30% of the points in that poll.

So all bow to the SEC for they are indeed walking the walk and talking the talk.

There is one conference though that doesn’t have the clout of the SEC but is building an impressive body of work. That would be the Mountain West Conference.

Saturday alone proved that maybe the MWC deserves to be in that BCS conversation. The league went 7-1 with 4 of those wins coming over Pac-10 schools. UNLV shocked Arizona State in Tempe 23-20 in overtime, New Mexico defeated Arizona 36-28 and TCU blasted Stanford 31-14. The most impressive was BYU’s butt kicking of UCLA 59-0, the same UCLA team that opened the season with a win over Tennessee from, the SEC. When you include BYU’s win over Washington the week before, the Mountain West owns the Pac-10 with a 5-0 record. If Colorado State can get by California on September 27th, the MWC would run the table on their western rivals.

I’ve got an idea for the BCS and I brought this up a few weeks ago. Boot the East Conference (they are not so big now) and replace with the Mountain West Conference.
Other than South Florida beating Kansas who has a team from the East beaten!! Your best team, West Virginia, got killed by East Carolina, Connecticut had to go overtime to beat Temple, Pittsburgh lost to Bowling Green and barely beat Buffalo, Syracuse lost by 2 touchdowns to Akron.

The Mountain West not only is unbeaten against the Pac-10 but has a win over the Big10 (Utah 23-21 win at Michigan). The MWC does have a shot against the mighty SEC when Wyoming takes on Tennessee November 8th at Neyland Stadium.

The Utah-BYU showdown at the end of the year is shaping up to be for a BCS berth barring any unforeseen circumstances however, the winner of the Mountain West Conference deserves to automatically qualify for the BCS after what this is accomplishing.

As for the BCS Championship Game, that’s another conversation.

BYU Photo Courtesy: Rick Egan/Salt Lake Tribune

UNLV Photo Courtesy: AP

UnACCeptable Saturday

If week one is any indication, it’s going to be a long year for ACC football fans. Clemson and Virginia Tech, the pre-season favorites to win their divisions, didn’t live up to the hype.

First the Hokies lose to East Carolina 27-22 and do they have issues. Quarterback is one of them. Sean Glennon got the starting job and his performance has fans questioning not only that decision by Virginia Tech Head Coach Frank Beamer, but the decision to red shirt Tyrod Taylor. With little support from the receivers and none from the running backs, Sean Glennon couldn’t make plays. You wanna bet the red shirt is coming off of Taylor because he can make plays on his own.

Clemson fans, your worst fears were realized. With all the expectations and the pressure of saving face for the ACC, the Tigers wet the bed. The Alabama Crimson Tide rolled 34-10 and beat the heck out of Clemson.

“We got whipped about every way you can get whipped. We haven't been physically beaten that bad in 3 years.” Clemson Head Coach Tommy Bowden said.
“The responsibility of getting the team prepared is mine and I didn't do that.

Who were the ACC teams that did look worthy? Well Wake Forest man handled a weak Baylor team in Waco and Georgia Tech look impressive against Jacksonville State. Yes I know JSU is a football championship subdivision team (got to be politically correct) but the Yellow Jackets seemed to have a grasp on Paul Johnson’s offense. Heck, even Duke got a double digit win over James Madison.

If this keeps up, the BCS might want to trade the ACC for the Mountain West. Utah marched into the Big House in Ann Arbor and beat Michigan giving the Wolverines their second season opening home loss in a row. Michigan fans, that hasn’t happened since the early 1950’s.

BYU looked impressive in their win over Northern Iowa. Get your tickets for the BYU-Utah game in November, the winner of the Holy War should go to the BCS.

TCU put a beat down on New Mexico so watch out for the Horned Frogs. TCU has Stanford on its schedule and Oklahoma. Beating the Sooners in Norman would be a tall order but the Frogs had hopped over OU before.

The Mountain West Conference is zooming, the ACC, well there’s time to restore your pride.

Virginia Tech/East Carolina Photo Courtesy: Getty Images
Clemson Photo Courtesy: AJC

College Football Week 1

I love it. College football kicks off this week so break out your game jerseys and your new hat of your favorite school, grab a bag of tortilla chips and salsa dip and sit on your throne. You won’t be moving for the next 5 days.

Best Game Of The Week (Gold Medal) – Illinois vs. Missouri

Sorry, I’m still in the Olympic spirit thanks to the Chinese food I had for lunch. This is a braggin’ rights border war to kick off the season plus, both teams are ranked. Kind of rare for week 1. This game features 2 great QB’s, Mizzou’s Chase Daniel & the Illini’s Juice Williams. This game should be entertaining with both teams scoring 30 points.

Best Game Of The Week (Silver Medal) – Alabama vs Clemson

You would think all the pressure would be on Clemson with all the expectations heaped on the Tigers for this season, but Alabama is feeling some to since this is suppose to be the breakout season under Jolly Ole St. Nick Saban. I initially thought Clemson might come in tight but the more I think about, the Crimson Tide might be a little anxious. Clemson will also want to put on a good showing for the ACC as well. This will be a good game however, a Clemson beat down might happen as well.

Best Game Of The Week (Bronze Medal) – Utah at Michigan

Wolverine fans still have nightmares over last years opening week loss to Appy State. This year for Michigan, new coach, new offense, you get the picture. Utah’s got some talent and can sneak up on an uncertain Michigan team. Get ready for more close ups of Michigan fans in denial. Go Utes.

Repeat for Appy State?

Can it be Upset Shocker 2 for Appalachian State? Appy State opens at LSU’s Death Valley. I give Appy State a shot because it’s a 4pm CST kickoff so the game will be played in the day light. But with over 70,000 LSU fans full of the Tiger Spirit (translation: drunk as hell) and an ultra talented Tiger team, it won’t happen.

Go Watch High School Football

Friday Nights college football offerings, Temple at Army and SMU at Rice. Both games are on TV. Do yourself a favor, go watch a high school football game, it will be a better game.

Game Note Of The Week

The winner is this little nugget I received from the sports information office at Clemson:

Todd McShay of ESPN named his top 15 seniors by position this week and Clemson has the top senior
in the country at two positions according to his fi ndings. Cullen Harper (Alpharetta, Ga.) is ranked as
the number-one senior quarterback and James Davis (Atlanta, Ga.) is ranked as the number-one senior
running back.. Aaron Kelly (Marietta, Ga.) was listed fi fth among senior wide receivers and Michael
Hamlin (Timmonsville, SC) was listed sixth among defensive backs, second among safeties.

1st the 4-letter word conquers the SEC now one of their minions tells us who the best seniors are in the nation. How many times will Brent Musburger bring this up during ESPN on ABC’s game broadcast? You could make that a drinking game.

Enjoy your college football