It doesn’t quite rival Jim Mora, Dennis Green or Mike Ditka. It does not come close to rivaling former Nebraska head coach Bill Callahan, who when coaching the Oakland Raiders referred to them as “We’ve got to be the dumbest team in America in terms of playing the game,” after a 22-8 loss to the Denver Broncos.
However, current Husker head coach Bo Pelini has been known to be on the surly side with the media at various times after Nebraska has a subpar practice. One of those days was Wednesday, August 26, in which Pelini publicly chided the team’s performance in practice as the team continues preparation for its season opener on Sept. 5 at home against Florida Atlantic.
“Unsportsmanlike Conduct,” which is hosted by Kevin Kugler and Mike’L Severe on Omaha radio station 1620 AM KOZN, played the unedited version of Pelini’s post-practice briefing with local media:
Pelini: “We're just not a real good football team right now. For a lot of reasons.”
So what about the offensive line competition?
Pelini: “No one's stepped up and taken control. Bunch of average guys running around out there right now.''
Is it a matter of losing focus toward the end of practice?
Pelini: “It doesn't matter whether it's the beginning, end, middle. It doesn't really matter, does it?''
Do they get it?
Pelini: “Apparently not.''
Did he say anything after practice to let them know?
Pelini: “What do you think?''
Of course, it should also be dually noted that players and fellow assistant coaches also echoed Pelini’s sentiments on the team’s subpar practice. Thursday’s effort was much better: http://www.huskers.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=1&SPID=22&ATCLID=204782705&DB_OEM_ID=100
Nebraska Statepaper Husker beat writer Samuel McKewon, one of my former Daily Nebraskan cohorts, addressed Pelini’s personality with the media: http://nebraska.statepaper.com/vnews/display.v/ART/2009/08/27/4a96aa2938b68
As one who works as a sports reporter/photographer myself for two small-town weeklies in Northern California (St. Helena Star and Weekly Calistogan), I know what media members go through. I have also had the experience of covering pro and college sports, which has a massive volume of people covering the team daily. So much so that you lose that intimacy with the players and coaches.
In general, I like Pelini’s honesty and forthright personality. That’s where he is a refreshing change. Granted, Frank Solich was not the most well-spoken coach. Callahan was but what did that get him other than a 27-22 record and a ticket out of town?
Pelini is who he is. Nebraska knew that when they hired him. There’s no turning back.
Pelini, however, needs to realize that no coach wins when he gets cross with the media. There are too damn many of them and they feed off each other. One little soundbite can reverberate for years.
In general, I think what McKewon is trying to get across is that you can't judge Pelini's interactions with the media simply by the soundbites that come when he's fired up. The press is getting a great deal of info regarding what's going on inside the team, it's just not all rhetoric from the head coach. Pelini gives an honest opinion, and allows the assistants and players to speak freely. Believe me; I understand that it is better than Callahan and/or Pederson blowing sunshine, then wheel out the coaches and players to speak from a script.
However, as the head coach, Pelini needs to understand that part of the job is being the front man for the media. It’s not like the local media had printed negative stories on the program. Granted, printing the stories on running back Quentin Castille’s suspension for what Pelini indicated was a “clear violation of team rules,” was not a pleasant topic but I think the media as a whole supported Pelini’s decision.
In a nutshell, I’m completely on board with Pelini venting after the team has a practice that does not please him. After all, it’s part of his way of letting players know that they need to earn their keep.
He just needs to realize that even if he is pissed off, part of his job is to answer questions at least respectfully. After all, we are talking Lincoln, Nebraska, media – not the New York Times.
It’s a matter of balancing being tough without being surly.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Florida Atlantic no pushover -- but not a landmine game either
As one that frequently visits collegefootballnews.com, I am always intrigued by the term “landmine games.” That term is often used in association with games where your team is likely favored but if not careful could wind up on the short end.
For Nebraska, the Baylor Bears have commonly been seen among the mainstream media that covers the team along with message board posters and bloggers as such a team that could spoil the Huskers fortunes in 2009. For starters, Nebraska visits Waco on Oct. 31 – one week before it hosts what is likely to be a Top Ten if not Top Five Oklahoma team. The argument has beckoned that the Huskers could be “looking ahead” to OU. I say, baloney because Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini is just the type of coach to preach the message, “you’re not good enough to overlook anyone.” Plus, Pelini and his staff have shown the ability to “coach in the moment.”
Baylor gave the Huskers a pretty good tussle in Lincoln last year before the Big Red prevailed 32-20. Bears quarterback Robert Griffin gave the Nebraska defense fits (rushing for 121 yards, throwing for 134 more) but keep in mind the Blackshirts were still finding their way at that point.
The Bears, who went 4-8 last season, might not be the easy out they’ve been in past years but let’s keep in mind 1995 was the last season Baylor went over the .500 mark, going 7-4 that year. The closest to breaking even the Bears came since then was 5-6 in 2005.
CFN.com has actually tabbed the Huskers opening game opponent (Florida Atlantic) on Sept. 5 as a landmine game. I won’t disagree that Owls will not be your “name the score” type of win. In fact, I can very easily see matters unfolding like last year’s 47-24 opening game win over Western Michigan. The type of game where Nebraska was not in danger of losing per se but close enough to keep the starters in the game much of the way.
However, I think CFN.com (which is a reputable news organization) errs in judgment when it prints, “In 2007, Ball State came in to Lincoln and came within an eyelash of pulling off the upset, losing in a fun 41-40 shootout. Husker fans came away raving about QB Nate Davis, and they'll do the same this year after seeing FAU QB Rusty Smith. The Owls are fearless road warriors, and while they don't have enough on defense to beat Nebraska, they're good enough to make part one of the Husker's three-game date with Sun Belt teams a memorable battle.”
There are two things wrong with that statement. True, it won’t be the first time the Owls have faced a traditional power. FAU has faced teams from a BCS conference 16 times. Keep in mind, however, that Florida Atlantic is 1-15 all-time vs. BCS conference teams and has been outscored 678-170 in those games.
Also, comparing the Ball State game of 2007 to the 2009 opener is much to do about nothing. There is no way you compare the 2009 Nebraska team (while still flawed) to the one that stepped on the field against Ball State. That defense was truly awful (maybe the worst that ever set foot on the Memorial Stadium turf) and had just gotten clubbed to death by USC one week earlier. I don't see that happening in the first game. In fact, I think Nebraska should be able to pound the ball right down Florida Atlantic’s throat.
I will give Owls head coach Howard “Give Me Some Conditioner For My Mustache” Schnellenberger credit for one thing. Since beating Minnesota in 2007, he has made it clear Florida Atlantic’s goal when playing the big boys isn’t just to get a big check -- he expects his teams to compete even if the opponent has been playing football at a much higher level for a much longer period of time.
The Huskers must be mindful of that because losing this game would be devastating on opening day and at home. It could spiral the season out of control but I don't see it happening. The Huskers will not lose this game.
Florida Atlantic (7-6 in 2008) took some beatdowns when they went to BCS schools (52-10 loss at Texas, 17-0 loss at Michigan State, 37-3 loss at Minnesota) last year and they lost quite a bit from that team. I don't think this one qualifies as a scare game.
If there's a landmine game on the schedule, it's the next week against Arkansas State. Nebraska could get caught looking ahead to Virginia Tech, Arkansas St has played well against Big 12 teams in the recent past, and the Huskers 'let down' game last season was in Week Two against San Jose State (35-12 win).
I also actually think the players and the team is looking to unload on somebody and make a point. Florida Atlantic just happens to be first up. If that happens, it's possible they could roll into game two overconfident but I think Pelini will keep them grounded.
Well, there is always a chance as Michigan found out with Appalachian State in the Big House in 2007 but I think it's remote and believe we will win, but stranger things have happened on opening day. Point being, I think Nebraska has to show up every game because the Huskers are not a point like they were in the 90's where they just show up and blow teams out. I hope they will be soon but the fact is they are not there yet.
For Nebraska, the Baylor Bears have commonly been seen among the mainstream media that covers the team along with message board posters and bloggers as such a team that could spoil the Huskers fortunes in 2009. For starters, Nebraska visits Waco on Oct. 31 – one week before it hosts what is likely to be a Top Ten if not Top Five Oklahoma team. The argument has beckoned that the Huskers could be “looking ahead” to OU. I say, baloney because Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini is just the type of coach to preach the message, “you’re not good enough to overlook anyone.” Plus, Pelini and his staff have shown the ability to “coach in the moment.”
Baylor gave the Huskers a pretty good tussle in Lincoln last year before the Big Red prevailed 32-20. Bears quarterback Robert Griffin gave the Nebraska defense fits (rushing for 121 yards, throwing for 134 more) but keep in mind the Blackshirts were still finding their way at that point.
The Bears, who went 4-8 last season, might not be the easy out they’ve been in past years but let’s keep in mind 1995 was the last season Baylor went over the .500 mark, going 7-4 that year. The closest to breaking even the Bears came since then was 5-6 in 2005.
CFN.com has actually tabbed the Huskers opening game opponent (Florida Atlantic) on Sept. 5 as a landmine game. I won’t disagree that Owls will not be your “name the score” type of win. In fact, I can very easily see matters unfolding like last year’s 47-24 opening game win over Western Michigan. The type of game where Nebraska was not in danger of losing per se but close enough to keep the starters in the game much of the way.
However, I think CFN.com (which is a reputable news organization) errs in judgment when it prints, “In 2007, Ball State came in to Lincoln and came within an eyelash of pulling off the upset, losing in a fun 41-40 shootout. Husker fans came away raving about QB Nate Davis, and they'll do the same this year after seeing FAU QB Rusty Smith. The Owls are fearless road warriors, and while they don't have enough on defense to beat Nebraska, they're good enough to make part one of the Husker's three-game date with Sun Belt teams a memorable battle.”
There are two things wrong with that statement. True, it won’t be the first time the Owls have faced a traditional power. FAU has faced teams from a BCS conference 16 times. Keep in mind, however, that Florida Atlantic is 1-15 all-time vs. BCS conference teams and has been outscored 678-170 in those games.
Also, comparing the Ball State game of 2007 to the 2009 opener is much to do about nothing. There is no way you compare the 2009 Nebraska team (while still flawed) to the one that stepped on the field against Ball State. That defense was truly awful (maybe the worst that ever set foot on the Memorial Stadium turf) and had just gotten clubbed to death by USC one week earlier. I don't see that happening in the first game. In fact, I think Nebraska should be able to pound the ball right down Florida Atlantic’s throat.
I will give Owls head coach Howard “Give Me Some Conditioner For My Mustache” Schnellenberger credit for one thing. Since beating Minnesota in 2007, he has made it clear Florida Atlantic’s goal when playing the big boys isn’t just to get a big check -- he expects his teams to compete even if the opponent has been playing football at a much higher level for a much longer period of time.
The Huskers must be mindful of that because losing this game would be devastating on opening day and at home. It could spiral the season out of control but I don't see it happening. The Huskers will not lose this game.
Florida Atlantic (7-6 in 2008) took some beatdowns when they went to BCS schools (52-10 loss at Texas, 17-0 loss at Michigan State, 37-3 loss at Minnesota) last year and they lost quite a bit from that team. I don't think this one qualifies as a scare game.
If there's a landmine game on the schedule, it's the next week against Arkansas State. Nebraska could get caught looking ahead to Virginia Tech, Arkansas St has played well against Big 12 teams in the recent past, and the Huskers 'let down' game last season was in Week Two against San Jose State (35-12 win).
I also actually think the players and the team is looking to unload on somebody and make a point. Florida Atlantic just happens to be first up. If that happens, it's possible they could roll into game two overconfident but I think Pelini will keep them grounded.
Well, there is always a chance as Michigan found out with Appalachian State in the Big House in 2007 but I think it's remote and believe we will win, but stranger things have happened on opening day. Point being, I think Nebraska has to show up every game because the Huskers are not a point like they were in the 90's where they just show up and blow teams out. I hope they will be soon but the fact is they are not there yet.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Watson's remaining window at NU likely a short one
“Stability” and “continuity” were two words commonly uttered throughout Tom Osborne’s 25-year head coaching tenure at Nebraska as well as the first four years of Frank Solich’s stint.
Then in 2002, the Huskers became just another program and that goes even beyond their subpar 44-32 (for Nebraska) record from 2002-2008. Solich uprooted most of the coaching staff after a disappointing 7-7 season in 2002, bringing in assistants such as Bo Pelini, Marvin Sanders, Tim Albin and Barney Cotton. Despite a 10-3 season, then athletic director Steve Pederson fired Solich, named Pelini interim head coach and later passed over both Pelini and Turner Gill for Bill Callahan. In Callahan’s four years, the staff also went through various changes as well as a 27-22 record.
Nebraska fired Callahan after a 5-7 season in 2007 and went 9-4 in 2008, Pelini’s first as head coach. Most importantly, every staff member returns for 2009. Stability and continuity might be overstated words but are very important nonetheless because a youngster can come into the program as a freshman, knowing that what he learns then will apply every single year. When a staff experiences an upheaval, it takes time for players to not only learn the new system but for players and coaches to build a rapport.
Most of these assistants give you the impression of being here for the long haul. However, the reality is that while we all long for the days of Charlie McBride, George Darlington and Milt Tenopir staying for 25-plus years, those days are likely gone but as long as the core of the staff stays together, the Huskers will continue to sow the seeds for long term success.
Now, to bring up a hypothetical, yet likely, scenario that I hope doesn't happen, but something that has to be considered. The Huskers probably will lose offensive coordinator Shawn Watson at some point. I believe Watson is as good as any OC out there but he also has aspirations to be a head coach. I get the impression that he is just looking for the right offer to come along. I don't think he will leave NU for another OC job, that would be a lateral step but a head coaching job? Well, it depends on the program that calls him.
As much as I hate to say it, I think that Watson will be gone in 1-3 years, regardless. Hopefully, closer to three than one. The only thing that would keep him around is to offer him the head coaching position at NU, and that is something we can't offer as long as Pelini builds on his success.
The question begs: does Pelini have a short list somewhere that he is saving and tweaking for that rainy day when he needs it? Will he try to hire someone of Watson's caliber away from another program? Or will Pelini try to find a young, diamond-in-the-rough somewhere who is just looking for the opportunity to make it in the big-time? This is a bigger risk, yet will be easier to pull off and has a greater chance of sticking around the program long-term.
Another factor is that it takes so long to recruit for an offensive system that we should do whatever we can to keep the same offensive philosophy. Well, as long as the Huskers keep producing 30-plus points per game and the defense becomes stouter under Pelini.
Another option would be to promote from within with Barney Cotton, Ted Gilmore, Ron Brown, and Tim Beck as the options. I don’t think Beck would be ready just yet. Gilmore will be a downgrade, and Brown - as much as I respect the guy - is a permanent assistant at this level. That leaves Barney Cotton who was Solich's OC for one year, and then Cotton served as OC for Iowa State for a couple years. I just do not put Cotton in the same league as guys like Watson. Cotton may be a great line coach, but I don’t see him as an offensive coordinator. My money is on Beck if Pelini stays in staff. He has a pretty good resume when you think about it.
Of course, I hope Watson never leaves but let’s not be delusional. Hopefully, Watson at least sticks around through next year as the entire line except for Jacob Hickman returns. With Zac Lee (quarterback), Roy Helu (running back) and Mike McNeill (Tight end) returning the offense could be dynamite. At wide receiver, Menelik Holt will be gone but I have a feeling that JUCO transfer Brandon Kinnie will press Holt for playing time this year.
If Watson leaves, it'll be for a major conference program, in my mind. Settling for less wouldn't be worth it for a guy his age (49). He's got a 15-year head coaching window, essentially. Spending a quarter of that at a MAC school that'll struggle in hard economic times is a waste.
I think he is looking for something at least as good as Missouri or Kansas (just examples, not that those schools are looking), and anything better would be just that much more of a pull. He wouldn't go somewhere like Iowa State. I think Watson using essentially the same approach as Pelini used while at LSU - looking for the right program, the right fit, the right head-coaching opportunity at a relatively big-time university. If and when he leaves, I hope that it is for a program outside the Big 12.The nice thing about the existing staff, except Watson, is that the assistants either don't want to be head coaches or they are so young and unproven that they aren't even close to sniffing a head-coaching position. I think they are talented, and because of my previous statement - will be around for a long time = coaching continuity.
Then in 2002, the Huskers became just another program and that goes even beyond their subpar 44-32 (for Nebraska) record from 2002-2008. Solich uprooted most of the coaching staff after a disappointing 7-7 season in 2002, bringing in assistants such as Bo Pelini, Marvin Sanders, Tim Albin and Barney Cotton. Despite a 10-3 season, then athletic director Steve Pederson fired Solich, named Pelini interim head coach and later passed over both Pelini and Turner Gill for Bill Callahan. In Callahan’s four years, the staff also went through various changes as well as a 27-22 record.
Nebraska fired Callahan after a 5-7 season in 2007 and went 9-4 in 2008, Pelini’s first as head coach. Most importantly, every staff member returns for 2009. Stability and continuity might be overstated words but are very important nonetheless because a youngster can come into the program as a freshman, knowing that what he learns then will apply every single year. When a staff experiences an upheaval, it takes time for players to not only learn the new system but for players and coaches to build a rapport.
Most of these assistants give you the impression of being here for the long haul. However, the reality is that while we all long for the days of Charlie McBride, George Darlington and Milt Tenopir staying for 25-plus years, those days are likely gone but as long as the core of the staff stays together, the Huskers will continue to sow the seeds for long term success.
Now, to bring up a hypothetical, yet likely, scenario that I hope doesn't happen, but something that has to be considered. The Huskers probably will lose offensive coordinator Shawn Watson at some point. I believe Watson is as good as any OC out there but he also has aspirations to be a head coach. I get the impression that he is just looking for the right offer to come along. I don't think he will leave NU for another OC job, that would be a lateral step but a head coaching job? Well, it depends on the program that calls him.
As much as I hate to say it, I think that Watson will be gone in 1-3 years, regardless. Hopefully, closer to three than one. The only thing that would keep him around is to offer him the head coaching position at NU, and that is something we can't offer as long as Pelini builds on his success.
The question begs: does Pelini have a short list somewhere that he is saving and tweaking for that rainy day when he needs it? Will he try to hire someone of Watson's caliber away from another program? Or will Pelini try to find a young, diamond-in-the-rough somewhere who is just looking for the opportunity to make it in the big-time? This is a bigger risk, yet will be easier to pull off and has a greater chance of sticking around the program long-term.
Another factor is that it takes so long to recruit for an offensive system that we should do whatever we can to keep the same offensive philosophy. Well, as long as the Huskers keep producing 30-plus points per game and the defense becomes stouter under Pelini.
Another option would be to promote from within with Barney Cotton, Ted Gilmore, Ron Brown, and Tim Beck as the options. I don’t think Beck would be ready just yet. Gilmore will be a downgrade, and Brown - as much as I respect the guy - is a permanent assistant at this level. That leaves Barney Cotton who was Solich's OC for one year, and then Cotton served as OC for Iowa State for a couple years. I just do not put Cotton in the same league as guys like Watson. Cotton may be a great line coach, but I don’t see him as an offensive coordinator. My money is on Beck if Pelini stays in staff. He has a pretty good resume when you think about it.
Of course, I hope Watson never leaves but let’s not be delusional. Hopefully, Watson at least sticks around through next year as the entire line except for Jacob Hickman returns. With Zac Lee (quarterback), Roy Helu (running back) and Mike McNeill (Tight end) returning the offense could be dynamite. At wide receiver, Menelik Holt will be gone but I have a feeling that JUCO transfer Brandon Kinnie will press Holt for playing time this year.
If Watson leaves, it'll be for a major conference program, in my mind. Settling for less wouldn't be worth it for a guy his age (49). He's got a 15-year head coaching window, essentially. Spending a quarter of that at a MAC school that'll struggle in hard economic times is a waste.
I think he is looking for something at least as good as Missouri or Kansas (just examples, not that those schools are looking), and anything better would be just that much more of a pull. He wouldn't go somewhere like Iowa State. I think Watson using essentially the same approach as Pelini used while at LSU - looking for the right program, the right fit, the right head-coaching opportunity at a relatively big-time university. If and when he leaves, I hope that it is for a program outside the Big 12.The nice thing about the existing staff, except Watson, is that the assistants either don't want to be head coaches or they are so young and unproven that they aren't even close to sniffing a head-coaching position. I think they are talented, and because of my previous statement - will be around for a long time = coaching continuity.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Holtz must be high with his title game prediction
I can think of plenty of reasons to dislike Lou Holtz and I did not think I could come up with more -- but his latest his statement proved me wrong.
Now, I would never take away Holtz’s achievements as a football coach. After all, Holtz (now an ESPN commentator) is the only coach in NCAA history to lead six different programs to bowl games and the only coach to guide four different programs to the final top 20 rankings. He is also a multiple winner of National Coach of the Year honors. So the guy obviously knows how to win.
Granted, his one-year stint as an NFL coach failed miserably with the New York Jets in 1976, leading them to a 3-12 mark. Yes, the same coach that thought the “veer could be successful in the NFL.” Fat chance. Did not work. Then again, I can think of plenty of coaches who swallowed up the competition in college and failed miserably in the NFL such as Bobby Petrino, Steve Spurrier, Dennis Erickson, Nick Saban and Bill Peterson.
Holtz’s latest statement, however, is beyond my comprehension. “I believe Notre Dame will play Florida in the national championship game,” Holtz said. OK, I’d like to use the word “Kool-Aid sipper” to describe Holtz’s statement but that might be giving him too much credit.
“Lay off the bong,” should be more like it.
Granted, this is America and we are all entitled to our opinions but honestly there’s a better chance I’m going to get a date with Cindy Crawford than there is Notre Dame playing for the National title.
Florida in the National title game? I can see that happening. After all, quarterback Tim Tebow decided to stay in school and has already led the Gators to two National titles. Of course, several other teams might have a thing or three to say about that but point being Florida is a realistic bet.
But Notre Dame? Sorry, not buying it. Keep in mind, Holtz was the last coach to lead the Irish to legitimate national prominence, and for that we can certainly understand why Holtz and the University of Notre Dame will be forever intertwined. But when you make the move to sports commentator, you are expected to be as objective as you possibly can.
Keep in mind, this is the same guy that predicted the Irish to win 11 games in 2007 and all Notre Dame did was go 3-9. The Irish went 7-6 last season. Notre Dame might have the schedule to win 10 plus games. Looking at their schedule with the naked eye, the only team that seems definitively better than the Irish is No. 4 USC but a loss to Nevada or Michigan is also not unthinkable.
However, look at Notre Dame’s recent track record: 35-25 under Bob Davie, 21-15 under Tyrone Willingham and for all the hype he gets because of his NFL pedigree, Charlie Weis led the Irish to a 29-21 record in his four seasons, including 10-15 in his last two.
As a Nebraska alum, I won’t sit here and defend the Bill Callahan era (where the Huskers went 27-22). However, I find it mildly strange how Weiss frequently gets a free pass from the media where Callahan often got skewered – and rightfully so but what has Weis really done?
I still need to see where Weiss is a good head coach. Yes, he’s got the NFL pedigree having been an assistant under Bill Parcels with the New York Giants and New York Jets. He also played a key role in the New England Patriots three Super Bowl wins as offensive coordinator but the jury is still out on Weis and how his NFL background translates into college game. Back to the original point, there is almost zero chance of Notre Dame making the title game and for Lou to not understand this fundamentally. Well this would like having Ty Willingham say "I wish they didn't fire me at UW because I can predict that this season the Huskies will make the Rose Bowl."
Now, I would never take away Holtz’s achievements as a football coach. After all, Holtz (now an ESPN commentator) is the only coach in NCAA history to lead six different programs to bowl games and the only coach to guide four different programs to the final top 20 rankings. He is also a multiple winner of National Coach of the Year honors. So the guy obviously knows how to win.
Granted, his one-year stint as an NFL coach failed miserably with the New York Jets in 1976, leading them to a 3-12 mark. Yes, the same coach that thought the “veer could be successful in the NFL.” Fat chance. Did not work. Then again, I can think of plenty of coaches who swallowed up the competition in college and failed miserably in the NFL such as Bobby Petrino, Steve Spurrier, Dennis Erickson, Nick Saban and Bill Peterson.
Holtz’s latest statement, however, is beyond my comprehension. “I believe Notre Dame will play Florida in the national championship game,” Holtz said. OK, I’d like to use the word “Kool-Aid sipper” to describe Holtz’s statement but that might be giving him too much credit.
“Lay off the bong,” should be more like it.
Granted, this is America and we are all entitled to our opinions but honestly there’s a better chance I’m going to get a date with Cindy Crawford than there is Notre Dame playing for the National title.
Florida in the National title game? I can see that happening. After all, quarterback Tim Tebow decided to stay in school and has already led the Gators to two National titles. Of course, several other teams might have a thing or three to say about that but point being Florida is a realistic bet.
But Notre Dame? Sorry, not buying it. Keep in mind, Holtz was the last coach to lead the Irish to legitimate national prominence, and for that we can certainly understand why Holtz and the University of Notre Dame will be forever intertwined. But when you make the move to sports commentator, you are expected to be as objective as you possibly can.
Keep in mind, this is the same guy that predicted the Irish to win 11 games in 2007 and all Notre Dame did was go 3-9. The Irish went 7-6 last season. Notre Dame might have the schedule to win 10 plus games. Looking at their schedule with the naked eye, the only team that seems definitively better than the Irish is No. 4 USC but a loss to Nevada or Michigan is also not unthinkable.
However, look at Notre Dame’s recent track record: 35-25 under Bob Davie, 21-15 under Tyrone Willingham and for all the hype he gets because of his NFL pedigree, Charlie Weis led the Irish to a 29-21 record in his four seasons, including 10-15 in his last two.
As a Nebraska alum, I won’t sit here and defend the Bill Callahan era (where the Huskers went 27-22). However, I find it mildly strange how Weiss frequently gets a free pass from the media where Callahan often got skewered – and rightfully so but what has Weis really done?
I still need to see where Weiss is a good head coach. Yes, he’s got the NFL pedigree having been an assistant under Bill Parcels with the New York Giants and New York Jets. He also played a key role in the New England Patriots three Super Bowl wins as offensive coordinator but the jury is still out on Weis and how his NFL background translates into college game. Back to the original point, there is almost zero chance of Notre Dame making the title game and for Lou to not understand this fundamentally. Well this would like having Ty Willingham say "I wish they didn't fire me at UW because I can predict that this season the Huskies will make the Rose Bowl."
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Castille dismissal shows Pelini will make tough choices
Say one thing for Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini. Well, there are many things you can say but none the least of which are his willingness to make a tough decision.
Running back Quentin Castille has been dismissed from the football team for what Pelini said Saturday was a clear violation of team policies according to the Lincoln Journal Star.
"We have guidelines, we have policies that we have set up here, we have a culture we have set up here," Pelini said. "It's pretty black and white my expectations and what we lay out as a staff, and if somebody doesn't follow those policies or guidelines, they're no longer going to be with the program. That's the case with Quentin. I wish him luck. He's a good kid. He's just not going to be with our program anymore. I wish him luck in the future. The book is closed on that."
Pelini addressed the matter following Saturday's practice. It marked the third day Castille was not with the team.
"It's black and white," Pelini said. "It's not tough the way I go about running this football program."
What stands out the most (to me anyhow) about the decision was that it did not involve the Unity Council, which Pelini reinstituted after becoming the head coach.
The Unity Council, which was in place from 1991-2003, is a group consisting of players selected by their fellow teammates on the football roster of that specific year. At least one player comes from each position on the football team so the voice of other players in that position can be heard. The idea enjoyed great on-field success initially, as Nebraska rolled off three national championships within the next 10 years.
The council dealt with internal discipline. It worked under a point system for troubled players -- those who got into trouble received points for infractions such as missing classes or practices, as well as criminal charges. The more points a player received, the harsher the discipline.
“If there's a violation and people go against the rules and the guidelines that we've set up, it's black and white,” Pelini said. “We'll show you the door. No one is above the football team. I got a program to run, both short term and long term. Like I said, end of story.”
So what does this mean for the running back position? Keep in mind; Castille and Roy Helu were slated to be Nebraska’s running back tandem in 2009 much like the ’08 season with Marlon Lucky.
Pelini added that true freshman Rex Burkhead has emerged as the No. 2 back behind Helu but don’t rule out Collins Okafor, Lester Ward, and Austin Jones. For that matter, don’t rule out Marcus Mendoza. Keep in mind, Okafor is a big back like Castille at 6-1, 225-pounds. Although I think Burkhead would have seen the field at some point this season anyhow despite Pelini’s tendency to redshirt freshman players.
Castille’s dismissal is a tough blow but Pelini is right to stick to his standards, which is what happened. I trust the reasons (unknown at this point) were legit. Pelini is proving he can make the though choices. Again, I am very curious about the reason for the dismissal. Was it drugs? Drinking? Breaking the law? Or heaven forbid violating the NCAA rules?
We'll never know unless either Castille discusses it, or the NCAA comes sniffing around and we hear about it on ESPN. Since it was for a “clear violation of team rules,” I seriously doubt it's an NCAA violation. Also, if Nebraska even suspected Castille violated NCAA rules he would have been suspended immediately (a couple days ago). About the only streak we've got left besides the sell-out streak is no major NCAA violations in the football program and I'm quite sure Nebraska wants to keep it that way. Also, I doubt it was the law. If it was, we would have heard about it because the police can't keep arrest reports from reporters for long. Defensive tackle Kevin Dixon's issues we knew about within hours of his arrests. Pelini dismissed Dixon before the start of last season and linebacker Cody Glenn late in the season. The speculation is already out there as to the reason for it but I doubt we ever get it confirmed. Pelini isn't going to throw a player or a former player under the bus under any circumstances. He referred to Castille as a “good kid.” Keep in mind, he never talked in specifics about what Dixon and Glenn did, and he's not going to talk about this one either.
It is a sad day for Castille but he is the only one who should be sad. The pattern of consistency in the area of discipline has been established. The only way to maintain the respect of the players in your program is to apply the consequences for the breaking of rules fairly and consistently regardless of who you are or how good you are.
Castille made mistakes and it cost him and for that you hope that he can overcome these hardships but for the good of the whole Pelini represents what is best in sports, character and principles, which someday will influence others choices to come to Nebraska for the right reasons.
Not that I need to know every time someone violates team rules but Pelini and his staff have demonstrated that they are completely fair with their players, and have their best interests at heart. So when he says someone can no longer be on the team, that's good enough for me. I also think that he deserves praise for keeping these things “In House,” letting the young men keep their dignity to whatever extent that is possible.
Running back Quentin Castille has been dismissed from the football team for what Pelini said Saturday was a clear violation of team policies according to the Lincoln Journal Star.
"We have guidelines, we have policies that we have set up here, we have a culture we have set up here," Pelini said. "It's pretty black and white my expectations and what we lay out as a staff, and if somebody doesn't follow those policies or guidelines, they're no longer going to be with the program. That's the case with Quentin. I wish him luck. He's a good kid. He's just not going to be with our program anymore. I wish him luck in the future. The book is closed on that."
Pelini addressed the matter following Saturday's practice. It marked the third day Castille was not with the team.
"It's black and white," Pelini said. "It's not tough the way I go about running this football program."
What stands out the most (to me anyhow) about the decision was that it did not involve the Unity Council, which Pelini reinstituted after becoming the head coach.
The Unity Council, which was in place from 1991-2003, is a group consisting of players selected by their fellow teammates on the football roster of that specific year. At least one player comes from each position on the football team so the voice of other players in that position can be heard. The idea enjoyed great on-field success initially, as Nebraska rolled off three national championships within the next 10 years.
The council dealt with internal discipline. It worked under a point system for troubled players -- those who got into trouble received points for infractions such as missing classes or practices, as well as criminal charges. The more points a player received, the harsher the discipline.
“If there's a violation and people go against the rules and the guidelines that we've set up, it's black and white,” Pelini said. “We'll show you the door. No one is above the football team. I got a program to run, both short term and long term. Like I said, end of story.”
So what does this mean for the running back position? Keep in mind; Castille and Roy Helu were slated to be Nebraska’s running back tandem in 2009 much like the ’08 season with Marlon Lucky.
Pelini added that true freshman Rex Burkhead has emerged as the No. 2 back behind Helu but don’t rule out Collins Okafor, Lester Ward, and Austin Jones. For that matter, don’t rule out Marcus Mendoza. Keep in mind, Okafor is a big back like Castille at 6-1, 225-pounds. Although I think Burkhead would have seen the field at some point this season anyhow despite Pelini’s tendency to redshirt freshman players.
Castille’s dismissal is a tough blow but Pelini is right to stick to his standards, which is what happened. I trust the reasons (unknown at this point) were legit. Pelini is proving he can make the though choices. Again, I am very curious about the reason for the dismissal. Was it drugs? Drinking? Breaking the law? Or heaven forbid violating the NCAA rules?
We'll never know unless either Castille discusses it, or the NCAA comes sniffing around and we hear about it on ESPN. Since it was for a “clear violation of team rules,” I seriously doubt it's an NCAA violation. Also, if Nebraska even suspected Castille violated NCAA rules he would have been suspended immediately (a couple days ago). About the only streak we've got left besides the sell-out streak is no major NCAA violations in the football program and I'm quite sure Nebraska wants to keep it that way. Also, I doubt it was the law. If it was, we would have heard about it because the police can't keep arrest reports from reporters for long. Defensive tackle Kevin Dixon's issues we knew about within hours of his arrests. Pelini dismissed Dixon before the start of last season and linebacker Cody Glenn late in the season. The speculation is already out there as to the reason for it but I doubt we ever get it confirmed. Pelini isn't going to throw a player or a former player under the bus under any circumstances. He referred to Castille as a “good kid.” Keep in mind, he never talked in specifics about what Dixon and Glenn did, and he's not going to talk about this one either.
It is a sad day for Castille but he is the only one who should be sad. The pattern of consistency in the area of discipline has been established. The only way to maintain the respect of the players in your program is to apply the consequences for the breaking of rules fairly and consistently regardless of who you are or how good you are.
Castille made mistakes and it cost him and for that you hope that he can overcome these hardships but for the good of the whole Pelini represents what is best in sports, character and principles, which someday will influence others choices to come to Nebraska for the right reasons.
Not that I need to know every time someone violates team rules but Pelini and his staff have demonstrated that they are completely fair with their players, and have their best interests at heart. So when he says someone can no longer be on the team, that's good enough for me. I also think that he deserves praise for keeping these things “In House,” letting the young men keep their dignity to whatever extent that is possible.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Has time passed the redshirt by
In a March 11 blog entry, I talked about the value of redshirting a true freshman: http://napavince.blogspot.com/2009/03/redshirt-does-not-mean-red-flag.html
The current NCAA rules state that an eligible athlete has five years to complete four seasons. Therefore, student-athletes may practice for a team but not play in a game for one season, not counting against his or her four seasons of eligibility. This is known as a redshirt. Fans don’t see their contributions in that they do not happen on gameday but the redshirt season is a valuable year in a system in that it provides shelter against some of the harsh realities of jumping to a new level of football.You see, some highly-touted high school studs make their college choices in the recruiting process based on early playing time. Some coaches promise it or tell the youngster he has a fair chance to compete for playing time. Others will demand an automatic redshirt. Pelini might not redshirt 100 percent of his recruits as freshmen but it’s going to be rare when he does not.Bo Pelini redshirted 50 scholarship players (including walkons) last season – his first as Nebraska’s head coasch. The Huskers were already thin at linebacker entering 2008. So thin they converted running back Cody Glenn to linebacker. Glenn, who earned the starting weakside linebacker job, was suspended late in the season and starting linebacker Phillip Dillard was limited the last half of the season with an ankle injury. Pelini still resisted the temptation of burning redshirts on talented players like Sean Fisher, Will Compton and Alonzo Whaley.
However, I have also heard at times lately that in recent years more true freshman are ready to make an impact. That argument has some merit in part because at larger high schools, there are fewer multi-sport athletes. Therefore, if a youngster is laser-focused on football, he might spend huge amounts of money to go to football camps to get recognized by college scouts.
The assumption that you can get four years out of an athlete after he redshirts may no longer be a valid assumption. It also seems as though there are quite a few players who have done well playing in their freshman years.Granted, it has become more common for true freshman to make an impact but in general I’d still say that only about two out of every ten are ready to do so. If a year of potential eligibility can be saved by not playing, then sure - that makes sense to redshirt them but if the guy is ready to play, and is better than those ahead of him on the depth chart, is it still a good idea to not play him if he's not a starter? Absolutely.
Therefore, I think redshirting is a good thing, especially in rebuilding years. Few guys are ready to go right out of high school and even fewer wouldn't benefit from an extra year of coaching. One exception is in a year where the non-freshmen on the team put you in a position to challenge for the National Title. In that case, I say go balls to the wall let's play our best guys if we need them.The other exception is if you think the guy is going to the NFL early. Use him while you've got him.
One thing that is different between Nebraska and most of the top schools in college football: the others tend to recruit great athletes, physical specimens. Nebraska tends to recruit mostly good (and a few great) athletes. Nebraska's emphasis has always been on building their players that fit the program, not on starting with the great players. I like it that way, it's the Nebraska way. But it also requires the extra year to bulk up and learn the playbook.
The current NCAA rules state that an eligible athlete has five years to complete four seasons. Therefore, student-athletes may practice for a team but not play in a game for one season, not counting against his or her four seasons of eligibility. This is known as a redshirt. Fans don’t see their contributions in that they do not happen on gameday but the redshirt season is a valuable year in a system in that it provides shelter against some of the harsh realities of jumping to a new level of football.You see, some highly-touted high school studs make their college choices in the recruiting process based on early playing time. Some coaches promise it or tell the youngster he has a fair chance to compete for playing time. Others will demand an automatic redshirt. Pelini might not redshirt 100 percent of his recruits as freshmen but it’s going to be rare when he does not.Bo Pelini redshirted 50 scholarship players (including walkons) last season – his first as Nebraska’s head coasch. The Huskers were already thin at linebacker entering 2008. So thin they converted running back Cody Glenn to linebacker. Glenn, who earned the starting weakside linebacker job, was suspended late in the season and starting linebacker Phillip Dillard was limited the last half of the season with an ankle injury. Pelini still resisted the temptation of burning redshirts on talented players like Sean Fisher, Will Compton and Alonzo Whaley.
However, I have also heard at times lately that in recent years more true freshman are ready to make an impact. That argument has some merit in part because at larger high schools, there are fewer multi-sport athletes. Therefore, if a youngster is laser-focused on football, he might spend huge amounts of money to go to football camps to get recognized by college scouts.
The assumption that you can get four years out of an athlete after he redshirts may no longer be a valid assumption. It also seems as though there are quite a few players who have done well playing in their freshman years.Granted, it has become more common for true freshman to make an impact but in general I’d still say that only about two out of every ten are ready to do so. If a year of potential eligibility can be saved by not playing, then sure - that makes sense to redshirt them but if the guy is ready to play, and is better than those ahead of him on the depth chart, is it still a good idea to not play him if he's not a starter? Absolutely.
Therefore, I think redshirting is a good thing, especially in rebuilding years. Few guys are ready to go right out of high school and even fewer wouldn't benefit from an extra year of coaching. One exception is in a year where the non-freshmen on the team put you in a position to challenge for the National Title. In that case, I say go balls to the wall let's play our best guys if we need them.The other exception is if you think the guy is going to the NFL early. Use him while you've got him.
One thing that is different between Nebraska and most of the top schools in college football: the others tend to recruit great athletes, physical specimens. Nebraska tends to recruit mostly good (and a few great) athletes. Nebraska's emphasis has always been on building their players that fit the program, not on starting with the great players. I like it that way, it's the Nebraska way. But it also requires the extra year to bulk up and learn the playbook.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
JUCO transfers are not junko transfers
There are many arguments that will get a Nebraska football fan’s blood going. Too many to list.
One that recently crossed my mind was how Husker fans, well at least as a broad generalization; tend to have an aversion to recruiting JUCO transfers. Cynics will point to the Bill Snyder era (the first one) at Kansas State along with the Bill Callahan era at Nebraska. Under Bo Pelini, the Huskers have scaled back their emphasis on recruiting JUCO transfers.
This blog entry should not be confused with endorsing a recruiting class full of JUCO transfers but in listening to some people you would think JUCO transfers came with a birth defect.
Yes, they do come with a risk. However, it should also be pointed out that Mike Rozier was a JUCO transfer and went on to become a Heisman Trophy winner. Terrell Farley was also a JUCO transfer and was a key member of the 1995 National Championship Husker team. Granted, Nebraska’s defense had other tremendously talented players (i.e. The Peter Bros., Grant Wistrom, Jared Tomich, and Mike Booker to name a few) but Farley generated numerous big plays. Zac Taylor was also a JUCO transfer and one could argue that his play at quarterback kept the Callahan era from being a complete disaster. Taylor was the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2006.
The 2009 Huskers will have at least two JUCO transfers that will play a role in the team’s success, quarterback Zac Lee and wide receiver Brandon Kinnie. Lee is the starter while Kinnie will likely see time because they are playing positions of need.
In general, I think certain people disdain JUCO transfers (Nebraska fans included) with such an elitist mentality for much the wrong reason because there are more reasons than "just" academics why a kid winds up at a JC.For one thing, as much as we Husker fans love the walk-on program, the bottom line is that kids are not as patient anymore about waiting their turn. Since I cover primarily high school sports, I have seen many kids who were the star on their high school team become hell bent on moving out of their hometown because they want something new. Because they were so much more talented than their high school peers, they didn't really have to work hard for their success. Then, they get to college and realize too late that they have to work much harder for their success. The next thing you know, they're back at their hometown JC but not because they couldn't cut the mustard academically. Plus, we live in an instant gratification world more than ever. The fact is, kids like an Adam Ickes, Todd Peterson or a Ben Eisenhart, who might be willing to forgo scholarships and early playing time elsewhere to wait their turn are fewer and further between than even 15 years ago.I also think that while relying heavily on JUCO transfers can be a risk, they often tend to have a better work ethic than your four and five star recruits from the high school ranks. Why? Nobody handed them anything and they are less likely to take what they have for granted because they have a shorter window of opportunity to prove themselves than a high school kid. Therefore, they push those four and five star recruits in practice to become better ballplayers – similar to the walk-ons. Granted, a JUCO transfer from outside Nebraska might not have Husker football woven into their blood but they tend to have the same work ethic as a walk-on.
To become a great team like what we all hope Nebraska aspires to become again, it's a balancing act. You obviously want five-star recruits but you also need hard-nosed walk-ons and JUCO transfers with talent and intangibles like Taylor.In addition, there are plenty of kids who might have been decent enough students in high school but perhaps lacked a little maturity off the field. For those kids, a JUCO situation is in their best interest. This aspect is also prevalent in non-athletes too. After all, take the kid who graduated from high school with barely enough credits and put him or her next to one who graduated with honors. Often times, they wind up in the same place. The first of which might begin their academic career at a JC and the other at a highly regarded four-year school. The latter of which might be the anointed one but winds out either back at his hometown JC or flunking out of school because he or she partied their life away.
I know I'm rambling like crazy but the same thing can apply in athletics too. Look at former Notre Dame quarterback Ron Pawlus, he was the anointed one out of high school and look what happened. Look at Taylor, he failed at Wake Forest and went to a JUCO before coming to Nebraska. Granted, Taylor has not become the next Joe Montana or John Elway but all I know is this – I want that guy on my team not just for his ability (which I think is pretty good but not great) but for his intangibles. Plus, Pawlus never had a job that ended requiring Sunday work.
One that recently crossed my mind was how Husker fans, well at least as a broad generalization; tend to have an aversion to recruiting JUCO transfers. Cynics will point to the Bill Snyder era (the first one) at Kansas State along with the Bill Callahan era at Nebraska. Under Bo Pelini, the Huskers have scaled back their emphasis on recruiting JUCO transfers.
This blog entry should not be confused with endorsing a recruiting class full of JUCO transfers but in listening to some people you would think JUCO transfers came with a birth defect.
Yes, they do come with a risk. However, it should also be pointed out that Mike Rozier was a JUCO transfer and went on to become a Heisman Trophy winner. Terrell Farley was also a JUCO transfer and was a key member of the 1995 National Championship Husker team. Granted, Nebraska’s defense had other tremendously talented players (i.e. The Peter Bros., Grant Wistrom, Jared Tomich, and Mike Booker to name a few) but Farley generated numerous big plays. Zac Taylor was also a JUCO transfer and one could argue that his play at quarterback kept the Callahan era from being a complete disaster. Taylor was the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2006.
The 2009 Huskers will have at least two JUCO transfers that will play a role in the team’s success, quarterback Zac Lee and wide receiver Brandon Kinnie. Lee is the starter while Kinnie will likely see time because they are playing positions of need.
In general, I think certain people disdain JUCO transfers (Nebraska fans included) with such an elitist mentality for much the wrong reason because there are more reasons than "just" academics why a kid winds up at a JC.For one thing, as much as we Husker fans love the walk-on program, the bottom line is that kids are not as patient anymore about waiting their turn. Since I cover primarily high school sports, I have seen many kids who were the star on their high school team become hell bent on moving out of their hometown because they want something new. Because they were so much more talented than their high school peers, they didn't really have to work hard for their success. Then, they get to college and realize too late that they have to work much harder for their success. The next thing you know, they're back at their hometown JC but not because they couldn't cut the mustard academically. Plus, we live in an instant gratification world more than ever. The fact is, kids like an Adam Ickes, Todd Peterson or a Ben Eisenhart, who might be willing to forgo scholarships and early playing time elsewhere to wait their turn are fewer and further between than even 15 years ago.I also think that while relying heavily on JUCO transfers can be a risk, they often tend to have a better work ethic than your four and five star recruits from the high school ranks. Why? Nobody handed them anything and they are less likely to take what they have for granted because they have a shorter window of opportunity to prove themselves than a high school kid. Therefore, they push those four and five star recruits in practice to become better ballplayers – similar to the walk-ons. Granted, a JUCO transfer from outside Nebraska might not have Husker football woven into their blood but they tend to have the same work ethic as a walk-on.
To become a great team like what we all hope Nebraska aspires to become again, it's a balancing act. You obviously want five-star recruits but you also need hard-nosed walk-ons and JUCO transfers with talent and intangibles like Taylor.In addition, there are plenty of kids who might have been decent enough students in high school but perhaps lacked a little maturity off the field. For those kids, a JUCO situation is in their best interest. This aspect is also prevalent in non-athletes too. After all, take the kid who graduated from high school with barely enough credits and put him or her next to one who graduated with honors. Often times, they wind up in the same place. The first of which might begin their academic career at a JC and the other at a highly regarded four-year school. The latter of which might be the anointed one but winds out either back at his hometown JC or flunking out of school because he or she partied their life away.
I know I'm rambling like crazy but the same thing can apply in athletics too. Look at former Notre Dame quarterback Ron Pawlus, he was the anointed one out of high school and look what happened. Look at Taylor, he failed at Wake Forest and went to a JUCO before coming to Nebraska. Granted, Taylor has not become the next Joe Montana or John Elway but all I know is this – I want that guy on my team not just for his ability (which I think is pretty good but not great) but for his intangibles. Plus, Pawlus never had a job that ended requiring Sunday work.
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