Thoughts:
1. Florida wins ugly, and Tebow should NOT be a Hypesman candidate;
2. I would really like to see TCU get a shot at the BCS title game. That's a good team;
3. How tough is the Pac-10? I have six teams from that conference in my Top 30;
4. Five straight Big Ten titles for Ohio State, yet this will be their first Rose Bowl since January 1, 1997. Weird;
5. Bye, Charlie.
Rankings:
1. Alabama (10-0): Read somewhere this is the 17th time (!) the Tide have started a season 10-0. That's pretty amazing.
2. Florida (10-0): Look, the bottom line is that they keep winning, even if it ain't purty.
3. TCU (10-0): Maybe the Big XII should add the Horned Frogs.
4. Texas (10-0): Winning like they should, considering they're not playing anyone good (right now).
5. Cincinnati (10-0): That was a closer one than it should have been.
6. Boise State (10-0): So no SEC team will schedule them, eh?
7. Georgia Tech (10-1): Great piece in Sports Illustrated last week about the offense.
8. Pittsburgh (9-1): That Big East showdown should be fun.
9. Oregon (8-2): Still in the driver's seat for the Rose Bowl. That would be a fun game.
10. Iowa (9-2): I know they just lost an H2H against the Buckeyes, but on the road in overtime with a backup QB (and a freshman, at that) means it's fine with me.
11. Ohio State (9-2): They got it done, but it wasn't very impressive.
12. Penn State (9-2): Hoping for a Wolverine upset?
13. Wisconsin (8-2): The Big Ten does have some good teams.
14. Oklahoma State (8-2): Beating Texas Tech is always nice.
15. Utah (8-2): Ouch.
16. BYU (8-2): Whatever.
17. LSU (8-2): Unimpressive.
18. Houston (8-2): Whoops.
19. Central Michigan (8-2): Better than Temple.
20. Rutgers (7-2): Quietly having a good season.
21. Temple (8-2): Horrible schedule.
22. Virginia Tech (7-3): Always fiesty.
23. USC (7-3): Defense has issues.
24. Miami-FL (7-3): Slowly torching a formerly great season.
25. Stanford (7-3): Again, a H2H anomaly, but what can I do about it? Considering the next few teams below, the Cardinal are fine here for now.
Also considered: Arizona, Oregon State, California, Clemson, Boston College
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
McMisanthrope's Top 25: November 8, 2009
Thoughts:
1) Stanford doesn't suck. This had "trap" written all over it, and the Ducks proved they're not-ready-for-prime-time. Maybe this is why the Pac-10 gets no national love, but in reality, they just beat each other up;
2) I was at the Florida-Vandy game with some old law school pals yesterday. It amazes me how one-dimensional Florida's offense really is, and I do think a team with a decent defense can beat them. And no, LSU doesn't have a decent defense;
3) Michigan and Notre Dame have both fallen off the silly pedestal people put them on after Week 2. Neither can play defense, neither has a good head coach, and both will be very disappointed all offseason;
4) TCU really should be the No. 4 team in the next BCS standings, period. THAT's a defense, folks.
Rankings:
1. Alabama (9-0): Kind of funny how the SEC title game is already decided with three more regular season games to play. What happened to the "depth" of the SEC? Seriously, this conference is a joke this year, built upon the fraudulent OOC scheduling I've exposed in my previous McMNC posts. Both Florida and the Tide struggled to put away a mediocre LSU team. Whichever team emerges from the SEC title game is going to lose their bowl game, if not both of them. Mark it down.
2. Florida (9-0): It's sad when everyone in the stands knows Tebow is going to hog the goal-line carries, and Vandy still can't stop you. I mean, put 11 guys in the box and see what Touchdown Jesus Deux does. Please give me Danny Wuerffel any day of the week over TJD.
3. TCU (9-0): Their SOS is almost as good as Florida's, and they have a chance to rise higher. They obviously have a BIG hurdle to clear next week at home against Utah, but I suspect they'll be focused and ready to do this. They could have had a big trap game this week, and they didn't even blink on the road.
4. Texas (9-0): I think Texas and TCU are the two best teams in the country right now, even if my system says differently. The 'Horns are hurt by their SOS, which isn't going to get any better in the last three regular season games -- or in the Big XII title game. Right now, it looks like Nebraska or Kansas State in the Big XII North.
5. Cincinnati (9-0): A couple of garbage-time TDs made their win over UConn look closer than it was, but still. They have three interesting games coming up, and if they run the table, it will be impressive.
6. Boise State (9-0): More than anything, Boise never looks consistent to me. They can play very well in bursts, but not over 60 minutes. They can get away with that in the WAC, but never in the BCS.
7. Georgia Tech (9-1): Another example of why we need a playoff. Having to play Tech on short rest would be a great matchup in a tournament, like playing Syracuse in the basketball tourney.
8. Iowa (9-1): I suspect they'll lose in Columbus next week, especially now that Ohio State is in the driver's seat for the Rose Bowl. Too bad; this was a good story, but it wasn't meant to be.
9. Pittsburgh (8-1): If Cincy and Pitt meet in that final game with a combined 21-1 record, that's going to be the equivalent of a playoff (or so some will say). And if Cincy emerges unscathed, they are deserving of a BCS title game slot.
10. Houston (8-1): Eventually, the BCS will find itself (if it's allowed to exist beyond this year) with nine or ten perfect teams in one season. And it will have no ability to argue its usual shit. Houston came close to making that possibility more of a reality this year than ever before, but I also don't think they're very good.
11. Utah (8-1): Again, the mark of a great coach is leaving an imprint on the program when you leave it. Look at what Meyer did here; look at what Saban did at LSU. Look at ... oh, I don't know. Either way, I expect Utah will finish 10-2, which is a helluva follow-up to 13-0.
12. Oregon (7-2): My system actually has the Trojans slightly ahead of the Ducks, but common sense made me flip them. And that, my friends, is how you blow your dream season ... twice.
13. USC (7-2): Having a bit of an identity crisis right now, I think. A mediocre win in their final road game of the year, and they have two tough games sandwiching a rivalry game left. Could they lose all three? Sure. Will they? I doubt it. But Stanford, UCLA and Arizona to close out the season is no picnic.
14. Arizona (6-2): Funny how Washington beat two of the best three teams in the Pac-10. Talk about conference strength. But this may be the peak for the 'Cats, as they close at California, host Oregon, visit ASU and close in Los Angeles against the Trojans. Yikes, that's a not-fun gauntlet of death.
15. Miami-FL (7-2): It's too bad the Gators don't play the 'Canes this year. Instead, Florida takes on FIU, and Miami takes on USF. Lame.
16. Ohio State (8-2): Impressive. Or maybe Penn State just sucks. I'm more inclined to believe the latter now. They control the Big Ten, I think. BFD.
17. Wisconsin (7-2): I don't trust this team, but the numbers are more reliable than my instincts, so whatever. They got payback on Sparty for last year, and I think they'll get payback on Rich-Rod for last year, too.
18. BYU (7-2): Pass.
19. West Virginia (7-2): Run.
20. Oklahoma State (7-2): Hide?
21. Penn State (8-2): I really can't decide between Penn State and LSU for the top of the bottom five this week. They were separated by two slots in the AP poll before losing this weekend. Penn State's best win is over Temple (see below?), and LSU's best win is over Auburn (don't see below, because they ain't even listed with their three losses). Maybe this would be a good bowl matchup.
22. LSU (7-2): For all the Les Miles Adoration in Ann Arbor, why do they really want him? His LSU teams have always been overrated, his game tactics are suspect, and the 2007 BCS "title" was a bought-and-paid-for joke. I wouldn't want Rich-Rod, either, but I also wouldn't want Miles running my program.
23. South Florida (6-2): They're better than FIU.
24. Central Michigan (7-2): Sneak.
25. Troy (7-2): Makes Florida's SOS look a lot better than it is, eh?
Also considered: Temple, Rutgers
1) Stanford doesn't suck. This had "trap" written all over it, and the Ducks proved they're not-ready-for-prime-time. Maybe this is why the Pac-10 gets no national love, but in reality, they just beat each other up;
2) I was at the Florida-Vandy game with some old law school pals yesterday. It amazes me how one-dimensional Florida's offense really is, and I do think a team with a decent defense can beat them. And no, LSU doesn't have a decent defense;
3) Michigan and Notre Dame have both fallen off the silly pedestal people put them on after Week 2. Neither can play defense, neither has a good head coach, and both will be very disappointed all offseason;
4) TCU really should be the No. 4 team in the next BCS standings, period. THAT's a defense, folks.
Rankings:
1. Alabama (9-0): Kind of funny how the SEC title game is already decided with three more regular season games to play. What happened to the "depth" of the SEC? Seriously, this conference is a joke this year, built upon the fraudulent OOC scheduling I've exposed in my previous McMNC posts. Both Florida and the Tide struggled to put away a mediocre LSU team. Whichever team emerges from the SEC title game is going to lose their bowl game, if not both of them. Mark it down.
2. Florida (9-0): It's sad when everyone in the stands knows Tebow is going to hog the goal-line carries, and Vandy still can't stop you. I mean, put 11 guys in the box and see what Touchdown Jesus Deux does. Please give me Danny Wuerffel any day of the week over TJD.
3. TCU (9-0): Their SOS is almost as good as Florida's, and they have a chance to rise higher. They obviously have a BIG hurdle to clear next week at home against Utah, but I suspect they'll be focused and ready to do this. They could have had a big trap game this week, and they didn't even blink on the road.
4. Texas (9-0): I think Texas and TCU are the two best teams in the country right now, even if my system says differently. The 'Horns are hurt by their SOS, which isn't going to get any better in the last three regular season games -- or in the Big XII title game. Right now, it looks like Nebraska or Kansas State in the Big XII North.
5. Cincinnati (9-0): A couple of garbage-time TDs made their win over UConn look closer than it was, but still. They have three interesting games coming up, and if they run the table, it will be impressive.
6. Boise State (9-0): More than anything, Boise never looks consistent to me. They can play very well in bursts, but not over 60 minutes. They can get away with that in the WAC, but never in the BCS.
7. Georgia Tech (9-1): Another example of why we need a playoff. Having to play Tech on short rest would be a great matchup in a tournament, like playing Syracuse in the basketball tourney.
8. Iowa (9-1): I suspect they'll lose in Columbus next week, especially now that Ohio State is in the driver's seat for the Rose Bowl. Too bad; this was a good story, but it wasn't meant to be.
9. Pittsburgh (8-1): If Cincy and Pitt meet in that final game with a combined 21-1 record, that's going to be the equivalent of a playoff (or so some will say). And if Cincy emerges unscathed, they are deserving of a BCS title game slot.
10. Houston (8-1): Eventually, the BCS will find itself (if it's allowed to exist beyond this year) with nine or ten perfect teams in one season. And it will have no ability to argue its usual shit. Houston came close to making that possibility more of a reality this year than ever before, but I also don't think they're very good.
11. Utah (8-1): Again, the mark of a great coach is leaving an imprint on the program when you leave it. Look at what Meyer did here; look at what Saban did at LSU. Look at ... oh, I don't know. Either way, I expect Utah will finish 10-2, which is a helluva follow-up to 13-0.
12. Oregon (7-2): My system actually has the Trojans slightly ahead of the Ducks, but common sense made me flip them. And that, my friends, is how you blow your dream season ... twice.
13. USC (7-2): Having a bit of an identity crisis right now, I think. A mediocre win in their final road game of the year, and they have two tough games sandwiching a rivalry game left. Could they lose all three? Sure. Will they? I doubt it. But Stanford, UCLA and Arizona to close out the season is no picnic.
14. Arizona (6-2): Funny how Washington beat two of the best three teams in the Pac-10. Talk about conference strength. But this may be the peak for the 'Cats, as they close at California, host Oregon, visit ASU and close in Los Angeles against the Trojans. Yikes, that's a not-fun gauntlet of death.
15. Miami-FL (7-2): It's too bad the Gators don't play the 'Canes this year. Instead, Florida takes on FIU, and Miami takes on USF. Lame.
16. Ohio State (8-2): Impressive. Or maybe Penn State just sucks. I'm more inclined to believe the latter now. They control the Big Ten, I think. BFD.
17. Wisconsin (7-2): I don't trust this team, but the numbers are more reliable than my instincts, so whatever. They got payback on Sparty for last year, and I think they'll get payback on Rich-Rod for last year, too.
18. BYU (7-2): Pass.
19. West Virginia (7-2): Run.
20. Oklahoma State (7-2): Hide?
21. Penn State (8-2): I really can't decide between Penn State and LSU for the top of the bottom five this week. They were separated by two slots in the AP poll before losing this weekend. Penn State's best win is over Temple (see below?), and LSU's best win is over Auburn (don't see below, because they ain't even listed with their three losses). Maybe this would be a good bowl matchup.
22. LSU (7-2): For all the Les Miles Adoration in Ann Arbor, why do they really want him? His LSU teams have always been overrated, his game tactics are suspect, and the 2007 BCS "title" was a bought-and-paid-for joke. I wouldn't want Rich-Rod, either, but I also wouldn't want Miles running my program.
23. South Florida (6-2): They're better than FIU.
24. Central Michigan (7-2): Sneak.
25. Troy (7-2): Makes Florida's SOS look a lot better than it is, eh?
Also considered: Temple, Rutgers
Sunday, November 1, 2009
McMisanthrope's Top 25: November 1, 2009
Thoughts:
1) Nice job, Oregon;
2) Nice job, Florida;
3) Nice job, Illinois;
4) Nice job, Texas.
Rankings:
1. Iowa (9-0): Their SOS edge is slipping on the other teams, but it should rebound as the remaining three teams on their schedule are all over .500 right now. I can't see the Hawkeyes losing to Northwestern or Minnesota, but a trip to Columbus awaits them, of course.
2. Florida (8-0): Georgia still sucks, but at least the Gators finally rolled a team like they should. Still, any team with a decent defense will beat Florida. Is that asking so much, Texas?
3. Alabama (8-0): If both Florida and Alabama make it to the SEC title game undefeated, will there be as much hype as there was for Michigan-Ohio State in 2006? Of course!
4. Texas (8-0): Maybe they've finally woken up.
5. TCU (8-0): They have a good defense.
6. Cincinnati (8-0): Their backup QB throws the ball very weirdly. If I were them, I'd want my starter back in there ASAP.
7. Boise State (8-0): Their SOS keeps slipping, of course. I assume the computers have the Broncos way behind TCU in that category. When they get shut out of the BCS, it's going to be more legislative-threat time for the BCS.
8. Oregon (7-1): One of the great things about college basketball is the "hot team" everyone fears come tournament time. Yeah, they had some issues earlier, but they just won their conference tourney, and they're smokin'. That's why the BCS sucks. It's not about the best team winning anymore. It used to be, but ... I don't think any team would want to play Oregon in a bowl game.
9. Georgia Tech (8-1): Same here, although having a month to prepare for their offense really helps.
10. LSU (7-1): Exhibit A, for why the SEC is overrated.
11. Utah (7-1): Exhibit A, for why the non-BCS schools are underrated.
12. Pittsburgh (7-1): Remember when Utah and Pitt played in the Fiesta Bowl? It'd be a good rematch now.
13. Penn State (8-1): They've really played a weak schedule for a Big Ten team so far.
14. Houston (7-1): This team isn't this good, but as long as they keep winning ...
15. USC (6-2): Is the King dead? Probably not. I don't think any team in the country would go 4-0 on the road against Cal, Notre Dame, Ohio State and Oregon. That's what you get for scheduling too well. Perhaps the Trojans should adopt a new philosophy for the BCS.
16. Arizona (5-2): I don't expect this to last. They still have to play Cal, Oregon, ASU, and USC. They may not even get to seven wins.
17. Miami-FL (6-2): The Year of Living Dangerously.
18. California (6-2): Nothing wrong with being Third Banana if Oregon and USC are the top fruits.
19. Notre Dame (6-2): They won't get to nine wins.
20. Wisconsin (6-2): Home shutouts in conference play are always impressive.
21. BYU (6-2): The MWC has as many teams in my Top 21 as the Big Ten, the SEC and the Pac-10.
22. West Virginia (6-2): Doh!
23. Oklahoma State (6-2): Sinking.
24. Ohio State (7-2): At least they've played a tougher schedule than Penn State. Plus, because they know they can still win the Rose Bowl trip with a win over Iowa, they will be dangerous until then.
25. Troy (6-2): Whatever.
Also receiving consideration this week: Idaho, South Florida, Central Michigan, Temple, Rutgers
1) Nice job, Oregon;
2) Nice job, Florida;
3) Nice job, Illinois;
4) Nice job, Texas.
Rankings:
1. Iowa (9-0): Their SOS edge is slipping on the other teams, but it should rebound as the remaining three teams on their schedule are all over .500 right now. I can't see the Hawkeyes losing to Northwestern or Minnesota, but a trip to Columbus awaits them, of course.
2. Florida (8-0): Georgia still sucks, but at least the Gators finally rolled a team like they should. Still, any team with a decent defense will beat Florida. Is that asking so much, Texas?
3. Alabama (8-0): If both Florida and Alabama make it to the SEC title game undefeated, will there be as much hype as there was for Michigan-Ohio State in 2006? Of course!
4. Texas (8-0): Maybe they've finally woken up.
5. TCU (8-0): They have a good defense.
6. Cincinnati (8-0): Their backup QB throws the ball very weirdly. If I were them, I'd want my starter back in there ASAP.
7. Boise State (8-0): Their SOS keeps slipping, of course. I assume the computers have the Broncos way behind TCU in that category. When they get shut out of the BCS, it's going to be more legislative-threat time for the BCS.
8. Oregon (7-1): One of the great things about college basketball is the "hot team" everyone fears come tournament time. Yeah, they had some issues earlier, but they just won their conference tourney, and they're smokin'. That's why the BCS sucks. It's not about the best team winning anymore. It used to be, but ... I don't think any team would want to play Oregon in a bowl game.
9. Georgia Tech (8-1): Same here, although having a month to prepare for their offense really helps.
10. LSU (7-1): Exhibit A, for why the SEC is overrated.
11. Utah (7-1): Exhibit A, for why the non-BCS schools are underrated.
12. Pittsburgh (7-1): Remember when Utah and Pitt played in the Fiesta Bowl? It'd be a good rematch now.
13. Penn State (8-1): They've really played a weak schedule for a Big Ten team so far.
14. Houston (7-1): This team isn't this good, but as long as they keep winning ...
15. USC (6-2): Is the King dead? Probably not. I don't think any team in the country would go 4-0 on the road against Cal, Notre Dame, Ohio State and Oregon. That's what you get for scheduling too well. Perhaps the Trojans should adopt a new philosophy for the BCS.
16. Arizona (5-2): I don't expect this to last. They still have to play Cal, Oregon, ASU, and USC. They may not even get to seven wins.
17. Miami-FL (6-2): The Year of Living Dangerously.
18. California (6-2): Nothing wrong with being Third Banana if Oregon and USC are the top fruits.
19. Notre Dame (6-2): They won't get to nine wins.
20. Wisconsin (6-2): Home shutouts in conference play are always impressive.
21. BYU (6-2): The MWC has as many teams in my Top 21 as the Big Ten, the SEC and the Pac-10.
22. West Virginia (6-2): Doh!
23. Oklahoma State (6-2): Sinking.
24. Ohio State (7-2): At least they've played a tougher schedule than Penn State. Plus, because they know they can still win the Rose Bowl trip with a win over Iowa, they will be dangerous until then.
25. Troy (6-2): Whatever.
Also receiving consideration this week: Idaho, South Florida, Central Michigan, Temple, Rutgers
Sunday, October 25, 2009
McMisanthrope's Top 25: October 25, 2009
Thoughts:
1) Best undefeated team effort on Saturday was ... surprise ... Texas. Maybe they realized they're underwhelming;
2) Iowa and Alabama really got lucky. But luck is the result of design, so ... kudos to them;
3) Pittsburgh looks pretty good; they're going to give Cincy a run in the Big Least. Watch;
4) Notre Dame is dancing some fine lines in 2009.
Rankings:
1. Iowa (8-0): Can't argue with the results, and the team is resilient. But ... they have the strongest SOS of any team that's undefeated, using my system. And it's not close, actually. Michigan State is better than its 4-4 record suggests, for example.
2. Alabama (8-0): What do the Hawkeyes and the Tide have in common? Great special teams play that has kept them undefeated in 2009. Maybe they're destined to meet in the MNC game.
3. Florida (7-0): Underwhelming, again. They look like 'Bama last year.
4. TCU (7-0): Seriously, that defense can beat any team in the country. Hope they get a MNC game shot.
5. Texas (7-0): Finally, an impressive win, of sorts.
6. Boise State (7-0): I haven't perused the BCS monopoly rules close enough, but if TCU makes the title game, can Boise State still get another BCS bowl bid?
7. Cincinnati (7-0): Just saw one highlight from their game, and the QB literally slung the ball toward the end zone. And it was a TD. I am not sold.
8. Oregon (6-1): If they win the Pac-10, their coach gets my COTY vote.
9. Georgia Tech (7-1): Steamrolling.
10. USC (6-1): Hey Pete, if you get up by 20 against the Ducks next week, make sure your defense doesn't fold late, okay?
11. LSU (6-1): Whatever.
12. Utah (6-1): You have to think this is one of the best programs in the FBS right now. Seriously. If I'm an undersized kid with a lot of heart living out West, I go to Salt Lake City and get a good education while playing for a perennial Top 20 program. Great coaching.
13. Pittsburgh (7-1): That freshman RB is pretty good.
14. West Virginia (6-1): Not sure why Noel Devine doesn't have more big games, but then again, he is playing in a Big East outpost. I mean, he's third in the nation in rushing. I haven't even noticed.
15. Penn State (7-1): Bet THAT felt good. But the Nits still haven't beaten a good team all season.
16. Houston (6-1): Whatever.
17. Oklahoma State (6-1): With such a poor SOS, you wonder how good this team really is.
18. Central Michigan (7-1): They'll think twice before scheduling another trip out West. This team could also be undefeated with a little better planning. Wow.
19. Virginia Tech (5-2): Great schedule, and they suffer for it.
20. Arizona (5-2): About time, Mike.
21. Miami-FL (5-2): That was a blown opp. Remember the ol' Orange Bowl days, where NO ONE came into the 'Canes' backyard and won? Yeah, I do, too.
22. Notre Dame (5-2): So close to being 7-0, and so close to being 1-6. Charlie, you're living lucky. Still think they're going to lose to Pitt and Stanford.
23. California (5-2): Whatever. I'm moving to California soon (San Jose, actually).
24. Wisconsin (5-2): These last few teams mean nothing to me.
25. South Carolina (6-2): I still have a soft spot for the Ol' Ball Coach, though.
Others considered but dismissed for weak-ass scheduling: Ohio State, BYU, Mississippi, Idaho, Navy, Troy, Kansas, South Florida, Temple, Rutgers
1) Best undefeated team effort on Saturday was ... surprise ... Texas. Maybe they realized they're underwhelming;
2) Iowa and Alabama really got lucky. But luck is the result of design, so ... kudos to them;
3) Pittsburgh looks pretty good; they're going to give Cincy a run in the Big Least. Watch;
4) Notre Dame is dancing some fine lines in 2009.
Rankings:
1. Iowa (8-0): Can't argue with the results, and the team is resilient. But ... they have the strongest SOS of any team that's undefeated, using my system. And it's not close, actually. Michigan State is better than its 4-4 record suggests, for example.
2. Alabama (8-0): What do the Hawkeyes and the Tide have in common? Great special teams play that has kept them undefeated in 2009. Maybe they're destined to meet in the MNC game.
3. Florida (7-0): Underwhelming, again. They look like 'Bama last year.
4. TCU (7-0): Seriously, that defense can beat any team in the country. Hope they get a MNC game shot.
5. Texas (7-0): Finally, an impressive win, of sorts.
6. Boise State (7-0): I haven't perused the BCS monopoly rules close enough, but if TCU makes the title game, can Boise State still get another BCS bowl bid?
7. Cincinnati (7-0): Just saw one highlight from their game, and the QB literally slung the ball toward the end zone. And it was a TD. I am not sold.
8. Oregon (6-1): If they win the Pac-10, their coach gets my COTY vote.
9. Georgia Tech (7-1): Steamrolling.
10. USC (6-1): Hey Pete, if you get up by 20 against the Ducks next week, make sure your defense doesn't fold late, okay?
11. LSU (6-1): Whatever.
12. Utah (6-1): You have to think this is one of the best programs in the FBS right now. Seriously. If I'm an undersized kid with a lot of heart living out West, I go to Salt Lake City and get a good education while playing for a perennial Top 20 program. Great coaching.
13. Pittsburgh (7-1): That freshman RB is pretty good.
14. West Virginia (6-1): Not sure why Noel Devine doesn't have more big games, but then again, he is playing in a Big East outpost. I mean, he's third in the nation in rushing. I haven't even noticed.
15. Penn State (7-1): Bet THAT felt good. But the Nits still haven't beaten a good team all season.
16. Houston (6-1): Whatever.
17. Oklahoma State (6-1): With such a poor SOS, you wonder how good this team really is.
18. Central Michigan (7-1): They'll think twice before scheduling another trip out West. This team could also be undefeated with a little better planning. Wow.
19. Virginia Tech (5-2): Great schedule, and they suffer for it.
20. Arizona (5-2): About time, Mike.
21. Miami-FL (5-2): That was a blown opp. Remember the ol' Orange Bowl days, where NO ONE came into the 'Canes' backyard and won? Yeah, I do, too.
22. Notre Dame (5-2): So close to being 7-0, and so close to being 1-6. Charlie, you're living lucky. Still think they're going to lose to Pitt and Stanford.
23. California (5-2): Whatever. I'm moving to California soon (San Jose, actually).
24. Wisconsin (5-2): These last few teams mean nothing to me.
25. South Carolina (6-2): I still have a soft spot for the Ol' Ball Coach, though.
Others considered but dismissed for weak-ass scheduling: Ohio State, BYU, Mississippi, Idaho, Navy, Troy, Kansas, South Florida, Temple, Rutgers
Sunday, October 18, 2009
McMisanthrope's Top 25: October 18, 2009
Thoughts:
1) Going to echo a lot of the "overrated" comments on RSFC from Saturday. Not a lot of really impressive teams out there right now. All the more reason for a playoff, because when the BC$/E$PN combo chooses their best TV matchup and argues its the "title" game, 95% of college football fans are getting jobbed. How anyone can argue this system "works" just defies common sense and logic;
2) I found the USC-ND game to be quite interesting. The Trojans never should have been in that position at the end, and the "home" timekeeper difference between this game and the ND-Michigan game was clearly apparent. Notre Dame didn't get that last second in Ann Arbor, but they got it at home -- same kind of play, etc. Another reason why college football just can't be taken seriously;
3) Texas could have won their game by three touchdowns if they had a decent coach. Hasn't this always been the story with Mack Brown? Great recruits, underperformance on the field. If this team makes the "title" game, no way in hell they win it. The Longhorns just aren't that good;
4) At this point in the season, I really do think Alabama is head and shoulders above everyone else. My rankings don't reflect that below, but I can't tweak my system in the middle of the season, either. So be it.
Rankings:
1. Iowa (7-0): Not sure what to say here. Winning ugly? But with 11 straight wins, you can't argue with the results, can you? It seems they start slow and finish strong, so we'll see.
2. Alabama (7-0): See above comments. Mark Ingram is pretty good, too.
3. Boise State (6-0): Any road win against a good team is valuable, but the Broncos don't seem to be blowing teams out like they should. Even against Oregon, they could have won that game 45-7, but they shot themselves in the foot repeatedly. I don't think we've seen the best of this team yet.
4. Florida (6-0): Dodged a bullet. I've always maintained that a good K is worth his weight in gold to a college football team.
5. TCU (6-0): Plugging along under the radar.
6. Texas (6-0): See above. Ugly.
7. Cincinnati (6-0): I feel they should be higher, but the numbers don't say so.
8. Georgia Tech (6-1): They've played a pretty good schedule so far, the best one of the one-loss teams.
9. USC (5-1): They've played four games on the road so far, so they have a second-half edge here. But look at their road wins: @ Ohio State, @ California and @ Notre Dame. Can any team in the country boast better quality road wins? Nope, mostly because most teams are too cowardly to schedule tough road games.
10. Oregon (5-1): Yeah, the Pac-10 and the SEC should have an annual OOC competition. I'd love to see Oregon play Florida and USC play Alabama. Fun times.
11. Miami-FL (5-1): I know they beat Georgia Tech, but my system doesn't do H2H very effectively. Sorry.
12. LSU (5-1): Still an enigma to me.
13. Utah (5-1): If the superconference is the direction to go for the Pac-10, then it's BYU and Utah.
14. Idaho (6-1): Impressive SOS and results, although I must confess I don't think I've seen a down of one of their games this year. Must make sure to watch them this next game.
15. Pittsburgh (6-1): Perhaps Cincy's only remaining roadbloack.
16. BYU (6-1): Losing to 2-4 FSU so badly really killed their credibility.
17. Houston (5-1): Seriously, UTEP?
18. West Virginia (5-1): Can it last?
19. Penn State (6-1): Considering they lost to the only good team they played, I have no idea what to make of Penn State. But did anyone see that clip of Paterno at the press conference before the Minnesota game? That was funny.
20. Oklahoma State (5-1): At least the Cougars are still "good" on paper, making their one loss half-credible.
21. Central Michigan (6-1): Again, maybe the only good team they played they lost to, but the State of Michigan champs look good.
22. Kansas (5-1): No way they should have helped Dan Hawkins out there. Bad loss, considering what's to come on their schedule in the next month.
23. South Florida (5-1): You just can't lose a home game when you're undefeated, even if the opponent is undefeated, too. I mean, why else does home-field advantage matter? This team teases almost every year. Getting stale.
24. Virginia Tech (5-2): I thought they were a bit too high for the one-loss crowd, because they never seem to be able to play consistent ball all season long. Not that many can, mind you, but ...
25. Arizona (4-2): They've played a Top 10 schedule according to my numbers.
Also considered this week: Notre Dame, California
1) Going to echo a lot of the "overrated" comments on RSFC from Saturday. Not a lot of really impressive teams out there right now. All the more reason for a playoff, because when the BC$/E$PN combo chooses their best TV matchup and argues its the "title" game, 95% of college football fans are getting jobbed. How anyone can argue this system "works" just defies common sense and logic;
2) I found the USC-ND game to be quite interesting. The Trojans never should have been in that position at the end, and the "home" timekeeper difference between this game and the ND-Michigan game was clearly apparent. Notre Dame didn't get that last second in Ann Arbor, but they got it at home -- same kind of play, etc. Another reason why college football just can't be taken seriously;
3) Texas could have won their game by three touchdowns if they had a decent coach. Hasn't this always been the story with Mack Brown? Great recruits, underperformance on the field. If this team makes the "title" game, no way in hell they win it. The Longhorns just aren't that good;
4) At this point in the season, I really do think Alabama is head and shoulders above everyone else. My rankings don't reflect that below, but I can't tweak my system in the middle of the season, either. So be it.
Rankings:
1. Iowa (7-0): Not sure what to say here. Winning ugly? But with 11 straight wins, you can't argue with the results, can you? It seems they start slow and finish strong, so we'll see.
2. Alabama (7-0): See above comments. Mark Ingram is pretty good, too.
3. Boise State (6-0): Any road win against a good team is valuable, but the Broncos don't seem to be blowing teams out like they should. Even against Oregon, they could have won that game 45-7, but they shot themselves in the foot repeatedly. I don't think we've seen the best of this team yet.
4. Florida (6-0): Dodged a bullet. I've always maintained that a good K is worth his weight in gold to a college football team.
5. TCU (6-0): Plugging along under the radar.
6. Texas (6-0): See above. Ugly.
7. Cincinnati (6-0): I feel they should be higher, but the numbers don't say so.
8. Georgia Tech (6-1): They've played a pretty good schedule so far, the best one of the one-loss teams.
9. USC (5-1): They've played four games on the road so far, so they have a second-half edge here. But look at their road wins: @ Ohio State, @ California and @ Notre Dame. Can any team in the country boast better quality road wins? Nope, mostly because most teams are too cowardly to schedule tough road games.
10. Oregon (5-1): Yeah, the Pac-10 and the SEC should have an annual OOC competition. I'd love to see Oregon play Florida and USC play Alabama. Fun times.
11. Miami-FL (5-1): I know they beat Georgia Tech, but my system doesn't do H2H very effectively. Sorry.
12. LSU (5-1): Still an enigma to me.
13. Utah (5-1): If the superconference is the direction to go for the Pac-10, then it's BYU and Utah.
14. Idaho (6-1): Impressive SOS and results, although I must confess I don't think I've seen a down of one of their games this year. Must make sure to watch them this next game.
15. Pittsburgh (6-1): Perhaps Cincy's only remaining roadbloack.
16. BYU (6-1): Losing to 2-4 FSU so badly really killed their credibility.
17. Houston (5-1): Seriously, UTEP?
18. West Virginia (5-1): Can it last?
19. Penn State (6-1): Considering they lost to the only good team they played, I have no idea what to make of Penn State. But did anyone see that clip of Paterno at the press conference before the Minnesota game? That was funny.
20. Oklahoma State (5-1): At least the Cougars are still "good" on paper, making their one loss half-credible.
21. Central Michigan (6-1): Again, maybe the only good team they played they lost to, but the State of Michigan champs look good.
22. Kansas (5-1): No way they should have helped Dan Hawkins out there. Bad loss, considering what's to come on their schedule in the next month.
23. South Florida (5-1): You just can't lose a home game when you're undefeated, even if the opponent is undefeated, too. I mean, why else does home-field advantage matter? This team teases almost every year. Getting stale.
24. Virginia Tech (5-2): I thought they were a bit too high for the one-loss crowd, because they never seem to be able to play consistent ball all season long. Not that many can, mind you, but ...
25. Arizona (4-2): They've played a Top 10 schedule according to my numbers.
Also considered this week: Notre Dame, California
Sunday, October 11, 2009
McMisanthrope's Top 25: October 11, 2009
Thoughts:
1) Florida was underwhelming, and I still think Alabama will beat them when the time comes -- just the opposite of last year. But it's cool to see a big rivalry develop between the two schools (again?).
2) Tate Forcier's star is falling, because you don't talk back to the coach, right? Just goes to show you, also, how important home-field advantage is in college football. Michigan is golden at home, and they're blue on the road.
3) Tony Romo is terrible. Oh wait, this is a college football poll. Sorry.
4) I have a feeling Texas is going to lose to Oklahoma next weekend. Just a hunch.
Rankings:
1) Alabama (6-0): Ole Miss sucks, and they were overrated like most SEC teams are year-in, year-out. With anyone ever learn? But Bama did what they needed to: win big on the road against a weaker team.
2) Iowa (6-0): Considering all the turnovers Michigan had, Iowa should have won their game by more than two points. Settling for FGs instead of TDs will hurt any team, obviously.
3) Florida (6-0): The ten-point margins against their "real" opponents aren't cutting it for me. And the rest of their schedule is weak (only one ranked team left in regular season?). So they're not #1 in my book; sorry.
4) Boise State (5-0): They'd be undefeated against Florida's schedule, too.
5) TCU (5-0): I like the 4-2-5 to stop the spread. Defenses will start adjusting soon.
6) Texas (5-0): As noted above, I have a hunch Oklahoma will beat them. Save Vince Young, Mack Brown has a history of undercoaching his talent.
7) Cincinnati (5-0): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team.
8) Kansas (5-0): Hope they've enjoyed the ride, because their gauntlet approaches.
9) South Florida (5-0): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team, either.
10) Virginia Tech (5-1): Why does this team have so many problems with its openers? No wonder the SEC keeps scheduling them early. Going back to their Sugar Bowl loss to Auburn in January 2005, it seems like the SEC owns the Hokies.
11) Miami-FL (4-1): Why are they playing Florida A&M?
12) USC (4-1): That freak lifting injury to Johnson still is bothering me. Ouch.
13) Oregon (5-1): Impressive road win at UCLA. Ugly, but impressive.
14) Georgia Tech (5-1): Have I mentioned I love the option, still? Yes, you need speed and discipline on defense to stop it, but not many teams have that. I love the option.
15) LSU (5-1): Color me unimpressed.
16) Notre Dame (4-1): They might beat USC. Nah.
17) Wisconsin (5-1): Well, their defense played well enough to win.
18) Ohio State (5-1): I'm ignoring H2H here, for now.
19) Nebraska (4-1): Weird win the other night, but it's a win.
20) Utah (4-1): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team, either.
21) Auburn (5-1): It was nice while it lasted.
22) Idaho (5-1): Random.
23) South Carolina (5-1): When does the annual second-half demise begin?
24) BYU (5-1): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team, either.
25) Missouri (4-1): Choke?
Others: Pittsburgh, West Virginia, Houston, Oklahoma State, Penn State, Central Michigan, Tulsa
1) Florida was underwhelming, and I still think Alabama will beat them when the time comes -- just the opposite of last year. But it's cool to see a big rivalry develop between the two schools (again?).
2) Tate Forcier's star is falling, because you don't talk back to the coach, right? Just goes to show you, also, how important home-field advantage is in college football. Michigan is golden at home, and they're blue on the road.
3) Tony Romo is terrible. Oh wait, this is a college football poll. Sorry.
4) I have a feeling Texas is going to lose to Oklahoma next weekend. Just a hunch.
Rankings:
1) Alabama (6-0): Ole Miss sucks, and they were overrated like most SEC teams are year-in, year-out. With anyone ever learn? But Bama did what they needed to: win big on the road against a weaker team.
2) Iowa (6-0): Considering all the turnovers Michigan had, Iowa should have won their game by more than two points. Settling for FGs instead of TDs will hurt any team, obviously.
3) Florida (6-0): The ten-point margins against their "real" opponents aren't cutting it for me. And the rest of their schedule is weak (only one ranked team left in regular season?). So they're not #1 in my book; sorry.
4) Boise State (5-0): They'd be undefeated against Florida's schedule, too.
5) TCU (5-0): I like the 4-2-5 to stop the spread. Defenses will start adjusting soon.
6) Texas (5-0): As noted above, I have a hunch Oklahoma will beat them. Save Vince Young, Mack Brown has a history of undercoaching his talent.
7) Cincinnati (5-0): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team.
8) Kansas (5-0): Hope they've enjoyed the ride, because their gauntlet approaches.
9) South Florida (5-0): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team, either.
10) Virginia Tech (5-1): Why does this team have so many problems with its openers? No wonder the SEC keeps scheduling them early. Going back to their Sugar Bowl loss to Auburn in January 2005, it seems like the SEC owns the Hokies.
11) Miami-FL (4-1): Why are they playing Florida A&M?
12) USC (4-1): That freak lifting injury to Johnson still is bothering me. Ouch.
13) Oregon (5-1): Impressive road win at UCLA. Ugly, but impressive.
14) Georgia Tech (5-1): Have I mentioned I love the option, still? Yes, you need speed and discipline on defense to stop it, but not many teams have that. I love the option.
15) LSU (5-1): Color me unimpressed.
16) Notre Dame (4-1): They might beat USC. Nah.
17) Wisconsin (5-1): Well, their defense played well enough to win.
18) Ohio State (5-1): I'm ignoring H2H here, for now.
19) Nebraska (4-1): Weird win the other night, but it's a win.
20) Utah (4-1): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team, either.
21) Auburn (5-1): It was nice while it lasted.
22) Idaho (5-1): Random.
23) South Carolina (5-1): When does the annual second-half demise begin?
24) BYU (5-1): Nothing interesting to say this week about this team, either.
25) Missouri (4-1): Choke?
Others: Pittsburgh, West Virginia, Houston, Oklahoma State, Penn State, Central Michigan, Tulsa
Monday, October 5, 2009
McMisanthrope's Top 25: October 4, 2009
Thoughts:
1) I saw the post with the “13 Contenders Left” headline: four teams are in the SEC, three teams are in the Big XII, two teams are in the Big Ten, two teams are in the Big East, and two teams are in non-BCS conferences. The ACC and Pac-10 don’t have any undefeated teams left, yet they may be the deepest conferences in the country;
2) After reading all the negative press on LSU and Auburn, good for both of them to win on the road;
3) Michigan wasn’t so fortunate;
4) I am curious to see if the Boise State-Cincinnati title game can truly happen. The four SEC teams are bound to beat each other up, and I can’t see any other team but Texas going undefeated. A Cincy-UT title game would be interesting, but I am doing what I shouldn’t do. So without further adieu …
Rankings:
1. LSU (5-0): Georgia may have been screwed by that excessive celebration penalty, but LSU still had to win the game. And they did. By my system (which remains a carefully guarded legal secret), the Tigers have played the best schedule of any of the undefeated teams remaining. I don’t think that can be debated.
2. Iowa (5-0): Not sure how you go from beating Penn State on the road by double digits to the squeaker stinker the Hawkeyes gave us on Saturday, but if it’s a letdown game and you still win, that’s all that matters.
3. Alabama (5-0): There’s a drop-off from the SOS of LSU and Iowa to ‘Bama. The Crimson Tide needs to start proving itself again, but I like what Saban is doing here.
4. Auburn (5-0): Isn’t this the start they were supposed to have last year? This feels like 2004 for Auburn, after they crashed burned in 2003 with all the preseason expectations.
5. Wisconsin (5-0): Can we call it winning ugly? After awhile, it just may be what it is: winning.
6. Boise State (5-0): The problem here is the schedule strength, which will continue to drop the Broncos in my rankings. The positive is that the other teams will probably all lose, which will raise the Broncos in my rankings.
7. Texas (4-0): If they lose to Oklahoma, they’re never going to live it down.
8. TCU (4-0): I feel like almost every year in the last handful, we hear how TCU can run the table. And they never do. Gary Patterson is the only coach in school history to record five 10-win seasons, though.
9. Florida (4-0): The gauntlet begins.
10. Cincinnati (5-0): Well, they survived the Sports Illustrated exposure.
11. Missouri (4-0): I bet if someone told us three Big XII teams would be undefeated heading into mid-October, few would have assumed two of those teams would be in the North division.
12. Kansas (4-0): I wonder if Todd Reesing will have a pro career. He kind of reminds me of Tony Romo sometimes, both good and bad.
13. South Florida (5-0): We’ve seen this story before, right?
14. Miami-FL (3-1): Well, THAT was impressive.
15. Virginia Tech (4-1): The only reason Miami is higher than VaTech is the SOS, since I have Miami-FL with the second-highest SOS overall in the country. The Hokies are at No. 14, by the way.
16. USC (4-1): Considering the Trojans still have to play Oregon and Stanford and UCLA and Oregon State and Arizona and Arizona State and Notre Dame, I don’t know how anyone thinks their schedule is easy.
17. Georgia Tech (4-1): The ACC has some very good teams.
18. Oregon (4-1): So does the Pac-10. And they all play each other every year. How cool is THAT for the fans?
19. Arizona (3-1): There’s a reason Pac-10 SOS is strong, and it’s teams like this.
20. Ohio State (4-1): So can a one-loss Ohio State team make the title game? Is it time to start asking that question yet?
21. Notre Dame (4-1): First, clearly UW is on the way back, although they’ll need another QB like Jake. Second, the Irish aren’t this good, and like the Wolverines, I think they’re on glass stilts.
22. UCLA (3-1): Speaking of glass stilts …
23. Stanford (4-1): Another head-to-head anomaly here, but that will work itself out. Can I get betting odds on Harbaugh taking the Michigan job by 2011?
24. BYU (4-1): They lost to three-loss FSU at home by 30 points or whatever. They will carry that one to their celestial kingdoms for all eternity.
25. Utah (3-1): Pretty good program they have going here. Has the Pac-10 noticed?
Also considered briefly: West Virginia, South Carolina, Penn State, Idaho, Middle Tennessee, Michigan, Nebraska, Connecticut, Pittsburgh, Boston College, Houston
1) I saw the post with the “13 Contenders Left” headline: four teams are in the SEC, three teams are in the Big XII, two teams are in the Big Ten, two teams are in the Big East, and two teams are in non-BCS conferences. The ACC and Pac-10 don’t have any undefeated teams left, yet they may be the deepest conferences in the country;
2) After reading all the negative press on LSU and Auburn, good for both of them to win on the road;
3) Michigan wasn’t so fortunate;
4) I am curious to see if the Boise State-Cincinnati title game can truly happen. The four SEC teams are bound to beat each other up, and I can’t see any other team but Texas going undefeated. A Cincy-UT title game would be interesting, but I am doing what I shouldn’t do. So without further adieu …
Rankings:
1. LSU (5-0): Georgia may have been screwed by that excessive celebration penalty, but LSU still had to win the game. And they did. By my system (which remains a carefully guarded legal secret), the Tigers have played the best schedule of any of the undefeated teams remaining. I don’t think that can be debated.
2. Iowa (5-0): Not sure how you go from beating Penn State on the road by double digits to the squeaker stinker the Hawkeyes gave us on Saturday, but if it’s a letdown game and you still win, that’s all that matters.
3. Alabama (5-0): There’s a drop-off from the SOS of LSU and Iowa to ‘Bama. The Crimson Tide needs to start proving itself again, but I like what Saban is doing here.
4. Auburn (5-0): Isn’t this the start they were supposed to have last year? This feels like 2004 for Auburn, after they crashed burned in 2003 with all the preseason expectations.
5. Wisconsin (5-0): Can we call it winning ugly? After awhile, it just may be what it is: winning.
6. Boise State (5-0): The problem here is the schedule strength, which will continue to drop the Broncos in my rankings. The positive is that the other teams will probably all lose, which will raise the Broncos in my rankings.
7. Texas (4-0): If they lose to Oklahoma, they’re never going to live it down.
8. TCU (4-0): I feel like almost every year in the last handful, we hear how TCU can run the table. And they never do. Gary Patterson is the only coach in school history to record five 10-win seasons, though.
9. Florida (4-0): The gauntlet begins.
10. Cincinnati (5-0): Well, they survived the Sports Illustrated exposure.
11. Missouri (4-0): I bet if someone told us three Big XII teams would be undefeated heading into mid-October, few would have assumed two of those teams would be in the North division.
12. Kansas (4-0): I wonder if Todd Reesing will have a pro career. He kind of reminds me of Tony Romo sometimes, both good and bad.
13. South Florida (5-0): We’ve seen this story before, right?
14. Miami-FL (3-1): Well, THAT was impressive.
15. Virginia Tech (4-1): The only reason Miami is higher than VaTech is the SOS, since I have Miami-FL with the second-highest SOS overall in the country. The Hokies are at No. 14, by the way.
16. USC (4-1): Considering the Trojans still have to play Oregon and Stanford and UCLA and Oregon State and Arizona and Arizona State and Notre Dame, I don’t know how anyone thinks their schedule is easy.
17. Georgia Tech (4-1): The ACC has some very good teams.
18. Oregon (4-1): So does the Pac-10. And they all play each other every year. How cool is THAT for the fans?
19. Arizona (3-1): There’s a reason Pac-10 SOS is strong, and it’s teams like this.
20. Ohio State (4-1): So can a one-loss Ohio State team make the title game? Is it time to start asking that question yet?
21. Notre Dame (4-1): First, clearly UW is on the way back, although they’ll need another QB like Jake. Second, the Irish aren’t this good, and like the Wolverines, I think they’re on glass stilts.
22. UCLA (3-1): Speaking of glass stilts …
23. Stanford (4-1): Another head-to-head anomaly here, but that will work itself out. Can I get betting odds on Harbaugh taking the Michigan job by 2011?
24. BYU (4-1): They lost to three-loss FSU at home by 30 points or whatever. They will carry that one to their celestial kingdoms for all eternity.
25. Utah (3-1): Pretty good program they have going here. Has the Pac-10 noticed?
Also considered briefly: West Virginia, South Carolina, Penn State, Idaho, Middle Tennessee, Michigan, Nebraska, Connecticut, Pittsburgh, Boston College, Houston
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