RGKii

Goodell to Employ “Get It Right”… But Is That The Issue?

Grift Krehnbrink — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 01:54:23 +0000

South Park hit the nail on the head in its recent season premier mocking The Washington Redskins and the current state of the NFL. Roger Goodell spoke publicly for the first time on September 19th following the uproar over Adrian Peterson, Greg Hardy, and the Ray Rice tape. Goodell spoke of “doing better” in regards to domestic violence as well as being proactive in the community and in future league issues. That’s great, but how will this be accomplished? The commissioner of the most powerful sports league in North America did not come out with a plan of action. He spoke because he was being pressured. On Monday Night Countdown earlier that week, the entire panel at one point or another questioned the commissioner’s absence. They were the most visual of those demanding to hear a plan from the league’s leader. The media became relentless as the main voice to this issue while those in power in New York remained silent and in the war room. Now, I am against the actions of the players recently in the news, and I do believe the league needs to take greater action when their athletes find themselves in legal trouble. However, when did the media begin to lead the mob?

The public became outraged after seeing the video of Ray Rice and the league has been consistent in saying that they saw it with the rest of us. But, Goodell had already made a change to the domestic violence policy. Heck, he admitted he got it wrong the first time. Roger heard all about the KO blow from Rice first hand. What changed? We became witness. Capturing every moment on Twitter, Instagram, or any other social media outlet has become how we connect with each other as well as the larger community. Now the public has a true voice. If we Hashtag something enough, the world will hear our demands. This is exactly what occurred with the league office. It seems they took an American Idol approach to determining what to do after TMZ released the video. If the public votes enough, we will take even greater action than what is already in place. They decided to listen to those that pay them in television contracts, attendance, and memorabilia sales.

Media outlets do provide a good filter for the general voice, but they are not without fault. Nike, who took action against Adrian Peterson, pulled his jerseys from stores as well as issued a statement against his behavior. Excuse me, Phil Knight. Don’t you also lead the company that exploits child labor and low wages in the foreign markets? If you are against such treatment, then why not practice yourself. I guess it’s just good business. ESPN in the past has shown action against domestic violence and other issues. In 2011, they let go of Jay Mariotti from Around the Horn after an altercation with his then girlfriend. Yet, ESPN turns around and asks Terrell Suggs his opinion on Ray Rice? Suggs was accused of domestic violence and received the standard 2 game penalty. His story can be seen here: Seems legit to me. What he did to his girlfriend is much worse than a single punch, but we don’t have the video.

In the light of recent decisions beyond just the domestic violence issue, it seems the league has taken the approach of many NBA teams. Trade rumors come out from league sources to gauge the interest of fans in a way to better the brand, not the team’s play. After passing a new substance policy that had long been in the works, is the NFL doing the same? This was the balance of Josh Gordon’s punishment vs the original Rice suspension. This is the NFL saying that they can get it right, just tell them what is right. The owners trust Commissioner Goodell to make the final call in player discipline and policy as he is the sole voice in that realm, yet as of late he has allowed the media and general public to drive decisions. If the owners did what their fans asked, Paul Brown wouldn’t be running the Bengals today. It’s time for the NFL office to make proactive independent decisions.

Public opinion and media reporting are influenced by facts, but dominated by opinions. The law will always be the law. This is what the league and its player conduct policy should weigh first and foremost. Set an example for the youth player of what will and won’t be tolerated. Make it strict, and don’t waver. This is the only way to solve the woes that are currently harassing Goodell. “Football is not a right, it is a privilege.” “Ignorance is not an excuse.” If you throw these statements around, then enforce them. New stories and issues are a daily occurrence. That is how sports work. In a month, there will be a whole new issue facing the league office. If Roger Goodell wants to return to good standing, then it is time opinions and stories stop running this league and the man charged with the task does.

This is the first crack for Tim Weil as a sports writer. A University of Cincinnati student currently interning in Grand Rapids, MI, His main in hobbies consist of sports and craft beer. Always willing to speak his mind on both subjects, especially when put together. Catch much more by Tim on the NFL and other subjects on www.griftkrehnbrink.com.

Ryder Cup Preview

admin — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 23:35:28 +0000

Almost two years ago today, Chicago was the epicenter of the sporting world on a Sunday afternoon in September. It wasn’t because the Bears were starting their regular season with dreams of Jay Cutler hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. It wasn’t because the Bulls were preparing for a full season with Derrick Rose, and it certainly wasn’t because the Cubs were making a September push for the playoffs.

Medinah Country Club was rocking because the Americans were giving Europe the business. Chants of “Bubb-ah!” and “U-S-A” were resounding with 350-yard bombs, and you would have thought Keegan Bradley and Phil Mickelson were going to slap each other’s hands right off. America had a dominating 10-6 lead, and the country was ready for our boys to take back the Ryder Cup for the 26^th time.

Then, “The Miracle at Medinah” happened. Ian Poulter made 100 birdies, Rory McIlroy beat Keegan Bradley after literally rolling out of bed, and Martin Kaymer sunk a putt on the 17^th hole to steal the Ryder Cup right out from Team USA’s hands. The United States don’t get a left hook to the face very often—but we did that fateful Sunday afternoon. To make things worse, you don’t get a chance at redemption very quickly in the Ryder Cup. You have to wait 2 long, almost unbearable, years.

But, it is finally time. The Americans have been waiting for this moment for what seems like an eternity, and they packed their best punch by naming Tom Watson the team captain. Watson captained the last US squad to win a Ryder Cup on European soil (way back in 1993). He also boasts a 10-4-1 record as a player, so he knows how to win on golf’s biggest stage. Boy, oh boy, it is time for revenge.

Well, somebody forgot to remind the American golfers. Jordan Spieth shot an 81 last week and Phil did not once finish in the top half of the leaderboard during the FedEx Cup. Rickie Fowler and Jim Furyk are the only two golfers on the USofA who you could argue are playing well right now. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy looks like Tiger Woods’ second coming and Sergio Garcia is putting up more Top 10 finishes than if Kate Upton were on a “Wet T-Shirt Contest” tour.

Europe is a heavy favorite, with Vegas giving them a -225 money line that they will retain the cup. Every golf expert on the planet is picking them, and who would blame them? They have star power (4 out of the top 10 golfers in the world are on Europe’s squad) and they just simply do not lose in front of their home fans (again, haven’t lost in 21 years on their turf). Their players are a combined 69-42-18 (62%) in Ryder Cup play. The Americans are 45-52-19(46%). All signs point to Europe hoisting the little gold trophy.

Not so fast, my friend.

I believe the Americans have a lot more going for them than the experts think. First of all, Europe picked a course (Gleneagles) that was designed by Jack Nicklaus. It is a very “American” course, with plenty of green fairways, tree-lines, and water hazards. You aren’t going to tune in at 3am Friday morning and see brown fairways like The Open Championship. You’re going to think you are in the middle of Ohio enjoying a golf round at Muirfield Village. There are plenty of long par 3s and 5s which will favor the Americans’ length, and a few Par 4s that may be drive-able for the young American guns. Yes, European Captain Paul McGinley is trying to grow the rough out and put in some European touches around the course which will favor his boys. But, bottom line, you could not have picked a better European course for the Americans than one that was designed by The Golden Bear.

Secondly, Match Play rewards the players who can “go low.” Pars don’t win fourball, foursome, or singles match play matches. You want players who can bomb it, scramble when necessary, and put the ball in the hole. Hey, Europe, check out these 2014 numbers:

The American players, on average, make 1.4 more birdies per round than the Europeans.
The USA boys dominate in driving distance and scrambling, averaging more than 15 spots better on PGA Tour’s rankings in both categories. The men in stars and stripes rip the ball, averaging over 300 yards per drive. But when they miss, they can still make birdies in bunches.
USA’s 12 guys, on average, rank 18.9 spots better in total putting than the Europeans on the PGA Tour (8 players).

Sure, the Europeans rank 9.9 spots better than the Americans in driving accuracy. But who cares? Grow that rough out, McGinley— our much younger team can muscle it out of there no problem.

Finally, we have more motivation for a victory than any other Ryder Cup team in recent memory. 2012 was brutal—but 2010 was also a heart breaker after Hunter Mahan chunked a chip on the 18^th hole to leave USA’s comeback aspirations just barely short. Golf is a mental game—and these patriots have a lot of motivation to keep them extra focused this week.

So, dust off your Ian Poulter dartboards. Find that Bruce Springsteen album that is tucked somewhere behind your red, white, and blue swag. Get the skillet ready to go, and grab your favorite 12-pack of Sam Adams. Because at 3am this Friday morning, Keegan Bradley and Phil Mickelson will be chest bumping, Bubba Watson will be fist pumping, and Rickie Fowler will be euro-thumping. The Americans are going to take back what they should’ve seized in 2012.

Payback’s a bitch.

– David Clark

Lou’s Losers: The InDOGural Edition

Grift Krehnbrink — Fri, 12 Sep 2014 12:20:14 +0000

Lou’s Losers – The Indogural Edition

Lou’s Losers is a weekly column of football predictions. You may be asking yourself what’s the big deal? Lou is a Cincinnati Mutt born and raised on the streets of Cincinnati. She spent time in and out of the pen honing her street skills. She eventually took her talents to a plush Mt. Adams Penthouse after a short stay in the SPCA. Lou loves football, and loves betting on football. For the sake of being different and inspired by the great Leonard Postel, Lou picks losers, not winners. Lou submits her picks through her owner and dog whisperer Michael Raidt, on a Beggin Strips Scale of Confidence. A Louisville native and die hard Cardinal fan, Michael is a Xavier graduate and sports enthusiast.

Lou

This week in college football features a big road test for a top 25 team; A Queen City favorite taking the field for the first time; A huge SEC matchup with major national title implications; And the longest winning streak in the nation between two teams is on the line.

Saturday September 13, 2014

Louisville @ Virginia (Louisville -6.5; o/u 48)

Louisville hits the ACC road in search of some clues. Is their 2-0 start deserving of attention from you? Or will a tougher league schedule begin to make them look like Lou poo? Standing in their way is the tough defense of the Virginia Hoos. It’s a battle of two Ville’s; Petrino and the Cards secure an ACC road kill.

Lou’s Loser: Virginia 24-13

Lou’s Bets: Louisville -6.5; Under 48

Confidence Level: 7 Beggin Strips

Toledo @ Cincinnati – (Cincinnati -10; o/u 58.5)

The last team to begin their 2014 campaign offer a potent offense that promises to make it rain. The Cincy fans have been feeling alone and smitten, and hope their boys have the T-town Rocket’s wishin they were quittin. The Queen City Kittens won’t disappoint, and while September 12^th is late you won’t need your mittens. Cats fans should have plenty to cheer just don’t try to steer if you’ve had too much beer.

Lou’s Loser: Toledo 41-20

Lou’s Bets: Cincinnati -10; Over/Under=pass

Confidence: 8 Beggin Strips

Georgia @ South Carolina – (Georgia -6.5; o/u 60)

It’s still early in the year, but it’s a tale of two teams. The Dawgs have been dominant, and have playoff dreams. The Cocks have been rocked and left looking for their socks. The Ole Ball Coach has been known to sling the pigskin around, but he will fall to 1-2 if he lets Gurley control the ground. His name suggests otherwise, but this Gurl is a man, and as a dog myself you know I’m a fan. The Dawgs go on the road, and the Cocks continue to get mowed.

Lou’s Loser: South Carolina 37-21

Lou’s Bets: Georgia -6.5; Over/Under=pass

Confidence: Ain’t no Beggin for these 10 Strips

Kentucky @ Florida – (Florida -18.5; o/u 53)

It’s been 27 straight years of Wildcat tears. The Gators have won them all and not many have even been a close call. Stoops Troops are closing the gap, with top notch recruits from all over the map. The Keeneland Kittys stay close enough to cause some fear, but in the end the Swamp Lizards stay in the clear.

Lou’s Loser: Kentucky 41-35

Lou’s Bets: Kentucky +18.5; Over 53

Confidence: 9 Beggin Strips

And as Loyal as Lou is, here is her weekly Bengals pick:

Sunday September 7^th

Atlanta Falcons @ Cincinnati Bengals – (Cincinnati -5; o/u 49)

Two teams familiar with heartbreak, face off in week 2 with an undefeated record at stake. The Big Striped Cats were impressive on the road. The Dirty Birds to the south had a couple big kicks and resiliency showed. A classic battle of O vs. D will determine the winner in this one you see. The jungle will be rocking for the first time this season. And since its only week 2 there is still hope and good reason. If the Red Rifle stays loaded, and the Bengals defense isn’t folded; then Orange is the new Black and The Bengals launch a new attack.

Lou’s Loser: Atlanta 27-20

Lou’s Bets: Cincinnati -5; Under 49

Confidence: 7 of 10 Beggin Strips

Tried My Hand at Radio Again.

Grift Krehnbrink — Fri, 12 Sep 2014 01:57:59 +0000

Check out BobLongSports latest show as we hit on the lift of the Penn State sanctions and Ray Rice being an all around great guy.

https://www.hulkshare.com/boblongsports/penn-state-bowl-sanctions-eliminated;-ray-rice-suspended

The Bengals or the Bungles?

Grift Krehnbrink — Fri, 05 Sep 2014 16:20:21 +0000

Nick Bachus takes a look at Cincinnati’s chances for finally getting to the promised land, and what it will take to do so.

Is this year different?

If you have ever spent time following Cincinnati sports you understand our annual routine.

Every fall we convince ourselves that this year is different, that this is finally the year of the Bengals! Deep down we know that we will ultimately be disappointed. However, the hope keeps us coming back.

Most seasons, parity in the NFL keeps the Bengals in contention until Christmas as they finish around 9-7 and possibly squeak into one of the last playoff spots. After losing in the first round, Cincinnati turns its attention to college basketball.

It’s much of the same with UC and Xavier. They help get us through the long, cold winter nights and provide excitement into March. Then Opening Day arrives and World Series chants echo through the Queen City.

As the dog days of summer come to an end and the Cardinals take the NL Central, we start over and the city begins to believe again that this is the year of the Bengals!

So as the first leaves begin to fall we must ask ourselves: “Is 2014 different?” “Could this be our year?”

Before we proclaim the Queen City the King of the NFL, let’s take a look at this year’s team.

The 2014 Bengals appear to be the top dog in the AFC North heading into the regular season. However, if the Bengals want to take the next step and earn their first playoff win since 1990 they will have to rely on the $100 million dollar arm of Andy Dalton. Andy is currently 0-3 in playoff appearances and his stats in those games are horrendous. Dalton has thrown only 1 touchdown and 6 interceptions in his short post season career.

For Dalton, consistency is the biggest issue. “Good Andy” puts up numbers comparable to some of the best QB’s in the league. When Dalton is on his game, the Bengals can beat any team in the NFL. Unfortunately for Bengals fans, they are just as familiar with “Bad Andy.” This is the Dalton that goes 23 for 42 with 0 TD’s and an interception in a loss to the Browns. This is the Andy that has historically shown up when the lights shine brightest. In order for the Bengals to be legitimate Super Bowl contenders in 2014, they will need to see far more “Good Andy”… especially in the post season.

Mike Brown and company have given Dalton so many weapons that it would be nearly impossible for Andy to not be successful in 2014. A.J Green is one of the league’s best receivers and Geovanni Bernard is knocking on the door to top back territory. Jermaine Gresham and Tyler Eifert have many similarities to the Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez combo that lit up defenses in New England (well except for the off field issues). The Bengals present a matchup nightmare for opponents and could produce huge numbers with some consistency at the quarterback position.

The big offensive concern for Bengals fans is the center position. Rookie Russell Bodine will be filling big shoes after the retirement of Kyle Cook. Bodine was manhandled in the preseason by Arizona nose tackle Dan Williams which is not a good omen for the season. Given Dalton’s struggles vs. the pass rush, it will be important for Bodine to improve quickly.

Fortunately for Cincinnati fans, the Bengals defense alone is good enough to lead the Bengals into the playoffs. They have the best defense in the AFC North and maybe in the NFL. Last year, the defense was dominant despite missing Geno Atkins and Taylor Mays for a majority of the season. This year a healthy Cincinnati defense will cause many sleepless nights for opposing offensive coordinators.

So is this the year of the Bengals?

I wouldn’t be a true Cincinnatian if I didn’t take the bait. Let’s get excited Bengals nation. It is time to buy into the hype once again. The Bengals have put together one of the best teams in the NFL and I am going to enjoy the ride. This is our year!

I will probably have my heart broken once again in January.. But by then it is time for college basketball anyways..

WHO DEY!

This is the first ever publication of Nick Bachus, and a damn fine one at that. Nick is a true Cincinnatian and West Sider in every sense of the word. In fact, he is probably more West Side than attending a Friday night football game taking place in the Price Hill Chili parking lot. Look for more posts from Nick touching on the Bengals and many more topics on www.griftkrehnbrink.com.

Here. Come. The ‘Cats… Sorta

Grift Krehnbrink — Fri, 05 Sep 2014 11:55:23 +0000

Well ‘Cats Fans, the season is here. Well. Almost here. Yea our Cincinnati Bearcats are getting a late start to the party, but think of it this way: How many times did you sleep through your morning class only to have an unreal Friday night anyway? Maybe that isn’t the best analogy in the world, but there is a lot to look forward to when this team actually does take the field. And although it will not be the usual home field we are used to, this could be the most talented team the Bearcats have EVER had. Yes… that is in writing, feel free to bring it up in some meaningless argument down the road.

What UC will actually look like in ’14’-’15 is still very much up in the air. The Riverboat Gambler didn’t tip his hand all that much in year one, but I imagine with the current tools at his disposal he could definitely show us a ton of reasons why he was bestowed such an awesome nickname. The schedule is shaping up to be an exciting ride, and although it would take a totally unblemished season to get to the promised land of the College Football Playoff, there should be plenty of moments to cheer about in the upcoming season.

Let’s take a look at some of the key stories for the squad as we start a new campaign.

No Plan “B”earcats: Two Weeks Late

This has Bearcats fans everywhere frustrated. Having the Bearcats on the metaphorical sideline while seemingly every other team in the country revs up their own respective fan bases is frustrating. I imagine we’re all as frustrated as poor Milton in Office Space passing out every piece of cake at Lumbergh’s birthday

Now UC fans don't be greedy

until there is none left. And it hurts too, because the season opener is no “cake” walk either with the Toledo Rockets coming in for the first contest having already played two games, with one against a pretty talented Missouri team this upcoming weekend. But before you get so angry that you and Pookie burn this place down, give yourself some perspective. UC DID have a game scheduled for the first weekend for a while… against Stony Brook. The ‘Cats and former AD Whit Babcock swapped out the Seawolves for the chance to play a nationally recognized program: the “U”. This situation will be better for the squad from Clifton in the long run, especially if we find a way to beat Miami at their place come October 11. And come on, now you have an excuse to go party in the city where the heat is on.

The Gunner Kiel Era Begins

Gunner has been named QB1, and I don’t think anyone has ever been this excited about a starting quarterback at the University of Cincinnati, let alone one that hasn’t played a single down at the college level. Not even Tony Pike, the Reading High School Legend, saw this kind of preseason hype and all he did was take Cincy to their first and only two BCS bowl games. But I would put my level of faith in this guy just ahead of Johnny Moxon and Shane Falco. And it’s because this guy seemingly has all the tools to be the best Bearcat QB ever to grace our beautiful campus. I would, however, caution fans to taper their expectations just a little bit for the start of this young kid’s career. I do think that eventually he will be as good as we all hope and wish, but give the kid a few games under his belt before you start anointing him like I just did.

The Play of The Lines

Both Eric Lefeld and Silverberry Mouhon are on preseason watchlists as some of the country’s best for their respective positions: Lefeld for the Outland Trophy (Best Offensive Lineman) and Mouhon for the Rotary Lombardi Trophy (Best D. Lineman). Quick side bar, Silverberry still has the best name in all of college sports. I’ll see your D’arrick, God’s Gift, and Cashmere, and raise you a goddamn Silverberry. Also, best part is his brother, a freshman linebacker on the team (and a really good one at that), is named “Kevin”. But outside of these two studs, there will be a lot of new guys looking to stand up on both sides of the ball. Long time defensive tackle and defensive leader Jordan Stepp has graduated, and it will be interesting to see if Junior Brandon Mitchell can step up and be the new plug in the middle for run stopping. On the O Line, there are starters back from last year’s Belk Bowl squad (Keebler, Boyd the best among them), but they lose 3 year starter Austen Bujnoch also to the cap and gown. It was a crew that saw Brendon Kay’s jersey pretty grass stained throughout the 2013 campaign. Here’s to hoping the guys can put together a great season as a unit and not individual performers.

Loaded at the Offensive Skill Positions

This is by far the most gifted group of athletes UC ever has had, including the groups of Gilyard and Binns. And it all has to do with some serious depth. The Bearcats have ridiculous speed guys in Shaq Washington and RDA IV (moving back to the slot thank heavens).

They have a pair who can stretch the field deep in Mekale McKay and Chris Moore, and great short yardage-possession-Elmered-palm guys in Max Morrison and Alex Chisum. And Tommy T has committed to using both Hosey Williams and Tion Green almost interchangeable in the backfield, which is good to hear because Green’s power running was totally wasted last season. The offense should be seemingly prepared for any kind of situation they find themselves in this year, and it is going to be hard for any defense to key on any one bullet when there are so many in the chamber.

Playing the Entire Season at Paul Brown Stadium

On the surface, playing the entire year in the “House that the Browns Built But Never Paid For” does put a little damper on the season for all of us as fans. Nippert is home for UC, and it offers a unique and crazy atmosphere that many other stadiumsaround the country don’t offer . But the good news is that unlike in year’s past, this is to offer time for much needed renovations to the heart of campus (luxury suites, added capacity, expanded walkways) that will make future games at the Nip more enjoyable and allow for easier access to the beer lines.

Yea rest of country, we drink beer AT the games. Screw your vodka chugs before kickoff.

The best thing that can happen is for the Bearcats to get off to a fast start, start getting some national pub, and the seats at PBS continue to look less and less empty. The worst: UC has a respectable season, the stadium looks somewhat empty but not too bad, and we head back to campus in 2015 no worse off. The most worst: Mike Brown finds a way to levy a tax against UC that has the university paying for the ability to play this year’s games there for up to 20 frickin’ years after the fact. (see construction of Paul Brown Stadium).

...

Games against some Nationally Recognized Programs

I have already mentioned a quality away game against Miami (Florida, Miami Oxford hasn’t been a qualtiy road game since Big Ben was still poppin’ champagne at Top Deck), but everyone is really looking forward to the road test against the Buckeyes of Ohio State at the end of September. All bias aside, this game and atmosphere leading up to it will be great for the state of Ohio as a whole and gives UC a chance to put or shut up after printing those “BUCkeye State” t-shirts back in 2009 (I wonder if Gilyard ever tried to sell THAT shirt for tattoos). Win or lose, these games will be a measuring stick for how well UC can stack up against some of the better competition in the NCAA. Also, don’t overlook a late game against the East Carolina Pirates. ECU is a really good team with a lot of returning talent, and a team I think has a good shot to upend South Carolina in Columbia this weekend (and a subsequent Ole Ball Coach heart attack). After watching UCF play Penn State tough over the past weekend, this is looking like a three team race for the AAC crown.

So hang in there. We’re now only a week away from kickoff. Snag a ticket to week one for the showdown against Toledo and cheer your rear ends off, because this team is going to deserve it. And last time I checked, beer is still acceptable at Paul Brown Stadium. Just be sure to only consume too much if the Bearcats aren’t performing… or if it’s a nice day.

Grift Krehnbrink is the co-founder and chief content writer for GriftKrehnbrink.com. Yes, Grift is so ambitious, he could find enough energy to co-found a website named in his likeness. If you have any questions about the site, or would like to be a part of this movement, email him at krehnbrinkg@gmail.com.

College Football: Fixing to be One Hella Season

Grift Krehnbrink — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 12:00:54 +0000

Ahhhh. The best time of year is finally back upon us. Where we wake up early on Saturday mornings because we want to. Where day-drinking is considered “ok” no matter what your age. And where girls become famous just for being hot in a crowd. Yes, it is college football season once more, and I for one find myself very excited for this season in particular.

It's time to get this rowdy.

Quick sidebar, it is total BS that no dude has ever been “discovered” at a sporting event. I eagerly await the day a male sports personality gets his start from just being in the stands looking hott. “So how did you pull that gig?” “I wore this sick polo with tight bright shorts that would make even the frattiest fratstar rethink his Chubbies collection.”

Good Things are New Things

Two initially fantastic things about this year. (1) No talk about a decade straight of dominance from the SEC, and (2) the creation of the SEC Network. The first thing is great because finally for a season we can separate Nick Saban from Jesus Christ, and #2 is even better because the rest of the country doesn’t have to watch the SEC suckfest every Saturday night on regular channels anymore. Not getting the SEC network as part of my cable package was the first time I have ever thanked my provider, even though it came in the same message as a $50 “technician” fee.

This Should Be Fun

But seriously, the parody present at the beginning of this season across the nation and in all major/minor conferences hasn’t existed since Dubya was in his first term as POTUS and Matt Leinart didn’t have to ask to go back to college; he was frickin’ there.

And it is a different kind of parody. Instead of debating if Alabama or Auburn is going to win it all, all 5 major conferences have teams that look like contenders. And of course I have to mention that this is the first year of the touted College Football Playoff, which on the surface looks like added competition to the landscape. As skeptical as I am about the new format, it is really the perfect year to add another layer to break through with such a deep and even field (minus Florida State).

Let’s take a look around the country at the battles for the major conference crowns:

In the BIG, a Braxton-less Ohio State, still the front runner with a deep defensive line and a stable of running backs, is going to have to contend with an extremely talented Michigan State squad returning a monster backfield in Connor Cook and Jeremy Langford and an always stout defense. Oh, and Wisconsin might have the best running back in the country and potential Heisman front-runner in Melvin Gordon and a schedule that excludes both the Buckeyes and the Spartans. The Badgers are also penciling in Tanner Mcevoy, a converted safety, as QB1 who last played the panty dropper spot at Arizona Western College (Go Matadors) almost two years ago. Everyone is looking forward to the OSU-MSU matchup in East Lansing November 8, but keep in mind Wisconsin has an undoubtedly soft schedule after its opener with LSU that includes only one ranked team (Nebraska at home) and ends it season with doormats Iowa and Minnesota. As a bonus, you need to watch the Penn State-Ohio State game in this the first year of the Coach James Franklin era. With what the Buckeyes did to the Nittany Lions last year in Columbus, look for a heated slugfest in Happy Valley when these teams meet in late October.

Across the country in the Pac 12, you could make a legitimate argument for the top four to five teams (Arizona State with an outside shot) to take home the conference crown, or to lose 3 games or more. UCLA has Brett Hundley, a stalwart on Heisman lists everywhere, and linebacker/goal line RB Myles Jack – both seen as top 20 picks next year, but has questions about the depth on both lines. Oregon has uber-talented Marcus Mariota back for his senior season and the speed to outrun just about anyone, but the Ducks still have not proven they can win a tough, physical, grind-it-out kind of game (look at Arizona and Stanford games last year). Stanford shows the ability to replace cogs in an unstoppable machine every year, but will have to rely on the unproven arm of Kevin Hogan with last year’s horse Tyler Gaffney off to the NFL. And USC finally is rid of the Lane Kiffin disease, and although they have had some recent bonehead moments, cough Josh Shaw, they should are sporting a much deeper roster to compliment its first line talent. All of these teams sans UCLA play 5 conference road games, so there will be ample chances for the front runner to slip up. Also, don’t expect an unbelievable year from Washington, but I think they will be the class of the conference in 5 years if they can keep Chris Petersen at coach (first year from Boise State). Guy can clearly coach, and with greater resources to work with, watch out for the Huskies in the years to come.

Down in the deep south, where GPA comes in as the third most important acronym to YPC and TFL, there are over half a dozen teams with a chance to come out of Atlanta as the SEC champion. Alabama is, per usual, the most talented team in the country, but they are breaking in a new, albeit talented, quarterback in FSU transfer Jake Coker and showed some real lack of discipline down the stretch last year. LSU is right next to Alabama talent-wise and even brought in what looks to be the best freshman running back since Adrian Peterson in Leonard Fournette. But the Tigers lost Zach Mettenberger and his righetous face lettuce to graduation, and no clear starter has emerged at the QB spot between Anthony Jennings and Brandon Harris. My gut told me this was South Carolina‘s year, but after getting Gamecock slapped by Texas A&M, there will be plenty of questions for Slippery Steve going forwards about his defense (I know his nickname is the Ole Ball Coach, but I like Slippery Steve more). On the other side, it’s clear A&M is going to score points this year even without Johnny JamBoogie, but we’re still waiting to see what is easier to get by, the Aggies secondary or Ukranian border officials (and I thought that joke was funny a week ago). Also, keep an eye on the Georgia Dawgs and Todd Gurley. If they can beat Clemson Saturday (which I think they will), they will play South Carolina next week, which is a game with a much different look after Thursday night. Then the schedule is relatively easy until a showdown with Auburn November 15. I’m on the Auburn-is-overrated train this year, but if the Tigers are legit, it will be interesting to see the atmosphere for that game given what happened last year with the “Immaculate Deflection”.

In the heartland of America, the Big 12 (I guess 10 teams = 12 there?), is looking like a two-team race between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Baylor Bears. Oklahoma finally looked like a top talent team with Trevor Knight at quarterback against Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, but we’re all skeptical if a Bob Stoops team can keep it all together for an entire season, something that has not happened since 2000. Baylor still has Bryce Petty slingin’ darts and a legit wide receiving corps, but if they play defense like they did last year, expect the same result. On the east coast the ACC however, represents the only major conference with absolutely no parody. Florida State is good. Like real good. Clemson will be somewhat solid as usual, and I hate to throw my hat in with every other sane person in America, but I just don’t see this FSU team losing on its way to the first College Football Playoff. And they have tight-end Nick O’Leary, grandson of Jack Nicholson. If you don’t think the ‘Noles are the unanimous favorite to repeat as Nati Champs, “YOU CAN’T HANDLE THE TRUTH!”

Outside of the big boys, there are a handful of really good teams outside of the limelight, and they are all in one “little” conference. In the American you have the Cincinnati (look for a full preview next week), UCF, Houston, and East Carolina who return most of their talent. All Bearcat bias aside (look for a full preview next week) I really like an East Carolina Pirates team who has games against South Carolina and Virginia Tech early on to make a statement for the AAC on a national level. I think UCF, even without Blake Bortles and Storm Johnson from last year’s team, goes into Dublin and beats Penn State for a second straight year. And of course, the Bearcats, led by “The Riverboat Gambler” (look for a full preview next week) and touted QB/traveler/rambling man Gunner Kiel, have great road exposure shots against Miami (FL) and the Buckeyes early in the year. But don’t even get me started on UC’s double bye to begin the year (look for a full preview next week).

Looking ahead to the awesome weekend that awaits us.

This Weekend’s Best Matchups

Penn State vs. UCF (Dublin, Ireland, 830 AM Saturday)

Why you should watch: Just for the fact that these two teams are playing in Ireland. I never knew the Golden Knights had such an alum footing in Dublin, but you learn something new every day. This game does, however, give us all an excuse to get up early and enjoy ourselves before the usual noon start. I am taking UCF to be the Nittany Lions for the second year in a row.

Georgia vs. Clemson (at Georgia, 530 PM Saturday)

Why you should watch: This game was epic last year, and although both quarterbacks are gone from last year’s teams, the replacements (Cole Stoudt for Clemson and Hutson Mason) have showed positive signs in backup duties over the past few years. Plus you get to see Todd Gurley, who is anything but feminine. The addition of Defensive Coordinator Jeremy Pruitt in Athens, GA coming over from Florida State should have the Dawgs actually fielding a competent defense for the first time in years. I like Georgia to win by double digits at home, with Gurley running for over 150, and the UGA defense being able to contain a Clemson offense with no replacement for Sammy Watkins.

Wisconsin vs. LSU (Houston, 9 PM Saturday)

Why you should watch: The ground games in this matchup are ridiculous. Melvin Gordon, as mentioned previously mentioned, is a hoss, and everyone should be excited to see the talents of freshman Leonard Fournette for the Tigers. But this game will be won by the team that can get it done in the trenches. I like Wisconsin to win a close and low-scoring game behind its offensive line, but would also be happy with a Wisconsin loss, knowing there is a certain Badger fan in Cincinnati fan who will read this.

Florida State vs. Oklahoma (in Dallas, 8 PM Saturday)

Why you should watch: Just to see how Florida State is somehow better now than they were when they hoisted the final National Championship crystal ball. Oklahoma State is going to put up points behind QB JW Walsh and a strong running game, but look for Jameis Winston to start off his second Heisman campaign by hanging a half-benjamin on the Poke defense.

Other Notables

Ohio State vs. Navy (Baltimore, Noon Saturday)

Why you should watch: Navy’s sicckkkkkk new uniforms. Under Armour killing the accessory game with these bad boys. Also, see what life is like for the Buckeyes A.Braxton with the first collegiate snaps of JT Barret.

West Virginia vs. Alabama (Atlanta, 330 PM Saturday)

Why you should watch: If you’re a Cincinnati fan, it’s been nice to watch WVU’s demise to irrelevance since they left the Old Big East for the treasures of the Big 12. If you’re anybody else, it still has to be a little funny right? I am looking forward to the middle of the second quarter, when the Morgantown faithful start heading for the gates and turn the streets of Atlanta into the land of John Denver.

SMU at Baylor (Waco, 730 PM Sunday)

Why you should watch: SMU is better than a lot of people give them credit for, and I really hope they get the upset over the Bears. Following a late score, Eric Dickerson and Craig James emerge from the tunnel in a light blue 1982 Chevy Camaro with matching “Pony Express” lower back tats (sorry its’s late), and Tonya Harding RGIII’s other knee before riding off into the sunset.

Some other happenings…

Other Very Important Information

Radio

If you have even more time to waste, check out my first ever internet radio appearance on my buddy Bob Long’s show at www.BobLongSports.com here. Forgive the initial stutters and occasional lack of factual knowledge, as I was a tad nervous for my debut.

Coming Soon

Well, I hope you enjoyed your first trip to the website. Chances are if you made it this far, you’re either bored at work or my Mom, but thanks anyways. Keep tuning in for more content to come your way.