**the notation is because this is all I had at the time of kickoff. My intent was to mock the lack of attendance for OM this season, and then say we would beat them by 6.5 points (1 TD). however to be fair that is now hind site, and anything that follows this is all that was said before kickoff. such is the speed of the internet.
____________________________________________________________________________
This week's song is a dedication to the Ole Miss Rebel Bears Country Jamboree and Petting Zoo fan-base and/or stadium. Take your pick, there won't be anyone there to argue.
Where is Everybody? - NIN
did you happen to catch
or did it happen so fast
what you thought would always last
has passed you by
is everything speeding up
or am I slowing down
I'm just spinning around
and I don't know why
all the pieces don't fit
but I really didn't give a shit
never wanted to be like you
but for all I aspire
I am really a liar
and I'm running out of things I can do...
I'd like to stay
but every day
everything pushes me further away
if you could show
help me to know
how it's supposed to be
where did it go?
pleading and
needing and
bleeding and
breeding and
feeding
exceeding
where is everybody?
trying and lying
defying denying
crying and dying
where is everybody?
well okay, enough,
you've had your fun
but come on thare has to be someone
that hasn't yet become
so numb and succumb
and god damn I am so tired of pretending
of wishing I was ending
when all I'm really doing is trying to hide
and keep it inside
and fill it with lies
open my eyes?
maybe I wish I could try
pleading and needing
and bleeding and breeding
feeding exceeding
where is everybody?
trying and lying
defying denying
crying and dying
where is everybody?
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Bouncin' Back...
Well if you read the blog last week you'll know I called for MSU to beat Bama, but as it turns out my stipulation regarding turnovers was dead on. Unfortunately we were on the losing end of that particular statistic, and the rest, as they say, is history...
As a matter of fact, that's exactly the way the Bulldogs should look at it. It's history. We've got to move on because there's still games left to be played, and both of the remaining games have implications on where the Dawgs land in the college football bowl landscape.
At this time of year the swirl of rumors and speculations has reached category 1 hurricane levels. There is much supposition of which team will go where, who will get snubbed by this bowl, etc. I've personally seen predictions for MSU's bowl appearance ranging from Independence and Motor City all the way to Peach and Cotton. Of course our coaches and players can't focus on all this 'hooey' if they want to keep winning football games, so the theme for this week is Bouncing Back... and so it gives me great pleasure to segue this spiel towards a great band and close personal friends of mine, Young Agent Jones.
Oh Yeah - Young Agent Jones
Oh, yeah...
You lose a lot of drive
Thinking everything is fine
But the road will rise up to meet you
And you'll remember you love to drive.
Sure there's a lot of love lost between you
And who you used to be
But you can't think long about it
Since you both think differently.
If you're living inside a bubble
At least you're squeaky clean.
Bubble pop, clock stop, bottom drop
Here's a powerful dose of reality.
Oh, yeah...Welcome back
Oh, yeah...This is living
Oh, yeah...It's coming back
Oh, yeah...
I can think I can speak
I can move I can breathe
Can't believe I didn't lose my mind.
Finally a mission a chance to make decisions
Cheesy lyrics out of my mouth.
I'm worth more to myself than anybody else.
Gotta drill this stuff into my head.
Bouncing back from being useless
To absolutely ruthless.
Coming out as hard as I can!
Oh, yeah...
I could go on for days
About this life-changing moment
That woke my head up.
So I am driven
I know I'm a normal ordinary guy
But I've gotta do something
I've gotta do something...
So watch out you suckers
Watch out, I'm coming.
Watch out you suckers
'Cause now I remember!
It's time for the Bulldogs to "Bounce back from being useless to absolutely ruthless" and come out as hard as they can against Arkansas. It will take nothing short of MSU's best effort to walk away with a 'W' this week.
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - The Bulldogs took their lumps in Alabama, and I don't believe "flat" to be an accurate and expressive enough word to describe the MSU offense in that particular outing. You can trot out all the excuses you want, but in the end MSU did not execute anywhere near their level of skill, and the result was a big Bama lead early that was insurmountable.
The Bulldogs catch a break regarding what they'll be facing this week, though. If Alabama's defense is Asiago, then Arkansas' D is Swiss. That's right, I just made a cheese analogy. Be that as it may, Mississippi State will still need to see significant improvement in the passing game or Arkansas' swiss-cheese-deez is still going to load the box and try to stuff the run. Relf must make Arkansas respect the passing threat, which is a tall task givin what we've seen this season.
DEFENSE - The MSU defense should be able to hold serve in the run game, as they've proven throughout the season. The problem is Arkansas isn't going to line up and try to jam it down your throat (obligatory "That's what she said!"). Ryan Mallet will dissect the Bulldog secondary like a master surgeon unless he is pressured early and often. The MSU DB's will have to play lights out to keep the Dawgs in this one, and even so you can expect the Hogs to break at least 2 big (60 yd+) plays which could result in TD's, if not more. Manny Diaz will have to be creative to find ways to bring pressure on Mallet and still have adequate coverage on the Hog receivers.
BOTTOM LINE -
BIG PLAYS - As I said, even if the Bulldogs play their best game, you're not going to stop a passer like Mallet 100% of the time. Limiting big plays is key to hanging in there and being in a position to win late in the game. Likewise, MSU will need some position players to step up and make significant contributions on the offensive side of the ball. So if you're asking what MSU needs to win this game... in a word? Heart.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 41 ARK 38
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 27 ARK 24
Yes, I'm doing it again. I guess it's Dan Mullen's fault for "bringing the swagger back" to MSU. I feel confident that the Bulldogs can line up and be competitive with any opponent they face, and that is a crucial and often overlooked element to any successful program. And before you get in tither, even if we lose to Ark this weekend you can be damn sure I'll be calling for a win in the Egg Bowl next week, too. Hell I've got to be right at least once... right?
As a matter of fact, that's exactly the way the Bulldogs should look at it. It's history. We've got to move on because there's still games left to be played, and both of the remaining games have implications on where the Dawgs land in the college football bowl landscape.
At this time of year the swirl of rumors and speculations has reached category 1 hurricane levels. There is much supposition of which team will go where, who will get snubbed by this bowl, etc. I've personally seen predictions for MSU's bowl appearance ranging from Independence and Motor City all the way to Peach and Cotton. Of course our coaches and players can't focus on all this 'hooey' if they want to keep winning football games, so the theme for this week is Bouncing Back... and so it gives me great pleasure to segue this spiel towards a great band and close personal friends of mine, Young Agent Jones.
Oh Yeah - Young Agent Jones
Oh, yeah...
You lose a lot of drive
Thinking everything is fine
But the road will rise up to meet you
And you'll remember you love to drive.
Sure there's a lot of love lost between you
And who you used to be
But you can't think long about it
Since you both think differently.
If you're living inside a bubble
At least you're squeaky clean.
Bubble pop, clock stop, bottom drop
Here's a powerful dose of reality.
Oh, yeah...Welcome back
Oh, yeah...This is living
Oh, yeah...It's coming back
Oh, yeah...
I can think I can speak
I can move I can breathe
Can't believe I didn't lose my mind.
Finally a mission a chance to make decisions
Cheesy lyrics out of my mouth.
I'm worth more to myself than anybody else.
Gotta drill this stuff into my head.
Bouncing back from being useless
To absolutely ruthless.
Coming out as hard as I can!
Oh, yeah...
I could go on for days
About this life-changing moment
That woke my head up.
So I am driven
I know I'm a normal ordinary guy
But I've gotta do something
I've gotta do something...
So watch out you suckers
Watch out, I'm coming.
Watch out you suckers
'Cause now I remember!
It's time for the Bulldogs to "Bounce back from being useless to absolutely ruthless" and come out as hard as they can against Arkansas. It will take nothing short of MSU's best effort to walk away with a 'W' this week.
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - The Bulldogs took their lumps in Alabama, and I don't believe "flat" to be an accurate and expressive enough word to describe the MSU offense in that particular outing. You can trot out all the excuses you want, but in the end MSU did not execute anywhere near their level of skill, and the result was a big Bama lead early that was insurmountable.
The Bulldogs catch a break regarding what they'll be facing this week, though. If Alabama's defense is Asiago, then Arkansas' D is Swiss. That's right, I just made a cheese analogy. Be that as it may, Mississippi State will still need to see significant improvement in the passing game or Arkansas' swiss-cheese-deez is still going to load the box and try to stuff the run. Relf must make Arkansas respect the passing threat, which is a tall task givin what we've seen this season.
DEFENSE - The MSU defense should be able to hold serve in the run game, as they've proven throughout the season. The problem is Arkansas isn't going to line up and try to jam it down your throat (obligatory "That's what she said!"). Ryan Mallet will dissect the Bulldog secondary like a master surgeon unless he is pressured early and often. The MSU DB's will have to play lights out to keep the Dawgs in this one, and even so you can expect the Hogs to break at least 2 big (60 yd+) plays which could result in TD's, if not more. Manny Diaz will have to be creative to find ways to bring pressure on Mallet and still have adequate coverage on the Hog receivers.
BOTTOM LINE -
BIG PLAYS - As I said, even if the Bulldogs play their best game, you're not going to stop a passer like Mallet 100% of the time. Limiting big plays is key to hanging in there and being in a position to win late in the game. Likewise, MSU will need some position players to step up and make significant contributions on the offensive side of the ball. So if you're asking what MSU needs to win this game... in a word? Heart.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 41 ARK 38
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 27 ARK 24
Yes, I'm doing it again. I guess it's Dan Mullen's fault for "bringing the swagger back" to MSU. I feel confident that the Bulldogs can line up and be competitive with any opponent they face, and that is a crucial and often overlooked element to any successful program. And before you get in tither, even if we lose to Ark this weekend you can be damn sure I'll be calling for a win in the Egg Bowl next week, too. Hell I've got to be right at least once... right?
Friday, November 12, 2010
Stranger Danger!
We've got a lot to cover this week, so let's get to it... right after you watch this.
Good stuff, huh? Mad props go out to Derek Cody (@derekcody on twitter) for this and the rest of his videos we've linked in the blog this season. Great work, Derek!
This week's dedication goes out to, well, a lot of folks. It's dedicated to both Alabama and Mississippi State, since pretty much no one predicted that they'd be "wearing" identical 7-2 records going into this week's game. It's also dedicated to Auburn, Cam & Cecil Newton, Kenny Rogers, John Bond and a whole slew of others, because their collective cloak and dagger routine has the entire nation wondering just what the hell is REALLY going on?
So without further ado...
The Stranger - Billy Joel
Well we all have a face
That we hide away forever
And we take them out and
Show ourselves
When everyone has gone.
Some are satin some are steel
Some are silk and some are leather
They're the faces of the stranger
But we love to try them on.
Well we all fall in love
But we disregard the danger.
Though we share so many secrets
There are some we never tell.
Why were you so surprised
That you never saw the stranger?
Did you ever let your lover see
The stranger in yourself?
Don't be afraid to try again
Everyone goes south
Every now and then.
You've done it, why can't
Someone else?
You should know by now
You've been there yourself.
There's a lot of meaning to be gleaned from those lyrics if one so chooses.
First, let's get the Rented Mule Saga out of the way. The timeline goes a little something like this (note: This information has been gathered from various message boards and blogs around the internet, so it is most likely 100% factual. However, we reserve the right to change/edit/update/remove this information as we see fit in light of any new information that comes to bear after the writing of this entry. If you have a question about our sources then learn2internet.):
1) Cam Newton is born.
2) Cecil Newton watches his mule, er, son grow into a talented football player and dollar signs roll up in his eyes like a damn cartoon.
3) Cam first goes to Florida, where he cheats his ass off and steals a laptop. He is dismissed from Florida.
4) Cam goes to JuCo.
5) Papa Cecil decides to cash in (possibly for a second time if he pulled this off at Florida?) on his son's new-found "free agency."
6) Papa Cecil skips his seminar on "how to subtly ask for money from college athletics 101".
7) Papa Cecil shops his mule, er, son around to various SEC schools.
8) Kenny Rogers tries to wedge his fat ass into the middle of this situation to make some bread by calling former teammates and soliciting funds.
9) John Bond rides in on a white horse like Sir Gallahad and blows the whistle on Papa Cecil, and, by extension, all the other dirty motherfuckers involved, by reporting the solicitation to MSU, who in turn reports it to the SEC as per Mike Slive's mandate.
10) Mike Slive does his best to brush this gigantic steaming pile of elephant dung under the proverbial carpet.
11) Rumors and allegations swirl between Dec. 2009 and July 2010.
12) More information comes to light in July and the NCAA steps in.
13) Thanks to the glory that is the Information Age all this evidence is hinted at and pussy-footed around all over the internet for weeks at a time, driving ratings and web page views through the roof.
14) Auburn claims no knowledge of any wrong doing throughout the entire process.
15) Auburn decides to sit Cam Newton for the Georgia game, just in case.
16) All across Alabama frantic 911 calls take place as Auburn's fans' heads explode, leaving family and friends to pick up bits of brain, skull, and other fucked up, repugnant shit.
Get all that? Good, now on to our game...
MSU faces Alabama in Tuscaloosa this Saturday night in what is an unexpected meeting between two 7-2 SEC West teams. Mississippi State is riding high on the crest of a six-game winning streak, whereas Bama limps into the game licking their wounds after the luckiest son of a bitch alive pulls another rabbit out of his gr-ass.
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - For Mississippi State to have a chance at winning this game, they must not only establish a serviceable (if not strong) running game, but they must also present a legitimate passing threat to keep one of the best defenses in the nation from loading the box and crushing hearts, skulls and dreams. Dan Mullen was quoted as saying that Chris Relf spent considerable time in the off-week working on his passing game, and hopefully something good will come of that.
DEFENSE - MSU caught several breaks this season in the form of key players being out, whether by injury or suspension. AJ Green was held out against Georgia. Demps did not play at Florida. Case Keenum was out for Houston. The list goes on, indeed, because Trent Richardson is questionable for this weekend's game against the Bulldogs. Even so the Dawgs must prepare for a solid ground game as Mark Ingram, who won the first ever Heisman for Alabama last season, will still be a factor. MSU has been successful stopping the run for most of the season, but Greg McElroy will test the Dawgs through the air, as well. The defense must create at least 2 turnovers that the Bulldogs turn into points on the board to get this game in hand.
BOTTOM LINE -
TURNOVERS - Since the LSU game, when MSU had 5 turnovers, the Bulldogs have done a good job of taking care of the ball. They need to take it one step further this weekend, and not only protect the rock, but find ways to steal it from Bama in order to lock this game down. If the Bulldogs end up with a negative turnover ratio in this game it's as good as gone.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 30 BAMA 27
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 17 BAMA 14
Yes, you heard me. I am calling an MSU win in Tuscaloosa this weekend. The Tide have little to play for now that they are officially out of the National Championship picture, and their tanks are close to 'E' after the emotional loss last week. MSU is coming of a bye week, and although it was very emotional with the loss of Nick Bell, the Bulldogs have dedicated the rest of the season to Nick, and you can bet they will go hard every single play in his honor.
Here's to you, Nick. Only the Good Die Young.
Good stuff, huh? Mad props go out to Derek Cody (@derekcody on twitter) for this and the rest of his videos we've linked in the blog this season. Great work, Derek!
This week's dedication goes out to, well, a lot of folks. It's dedicated to both Alabama and Mississippi State, since pretty much no one predicted that they'd be "wearing" identical 7-2 records going into this week's game. It's also dedicated to Auburn, Cam & Cecil Newton, Kenny Rogers, John Bond and a whole slew of others, because their collective cloak and dagger routine has the entire nation wondering just what the hell is REALLY going on?
So without further ado...
The Stranger - Billy Joel
Well we all have a face
That we hide away forever
And we take them out and
Show ourselves
When everyone has gone.
Some are satin some are steel
Some are silk and some are leather
They're the faces of the stranger
But we love to try them on.
Well we all fall in love
But we disregard the danger.
Though we share so many secrets
There are some we never tell.
Why were you so surprised
That you never saw the stranger?
Did you ever let your lover see
The stranger in yourself?
Don't be afraid to try again
Everyone goes south
Every now and then.
You've done it, why can't
Someone else?
You should know by now
You've been there yourself.
There's a lot of meaning to be gleaned from those lyrics if one so chooses.
First, let's get the Rented Mule Saga out of the way. The timeline goes a little something like this (note: This information has been gathered from various message boards and blogs around the internet, so it is most likely 100% factual. However, we reserve the right to change/edit/update/remove this information as we see fit in light of any new information that comes to bear after the writing of this entry. If you have a question about our sources then learn2internet.):
1) Cam Newton is born.
2) Cecil Newton watches his mule, er, son grow into a talented football player and dollar signs roll up in his eyes like a damn cartoon.
3) Cam first goes to Florida, where he cheats his ass off and steals a laptop. He is dismissed from Florida.
4) Cam goes to JuCo.
5) Papa Cecil decides to cash in (possibly for a second time if he pulled this off at Florida?) on his son's new-found "free agency."
6) Papa Cecil skips his seminar on "how to subtly ask for money from college athletics 101".
7) Papa Cecil shops his mule, er, son around to various SEC schools.
8) Kenny Rogers tries to wedge his fat ass into the middle of this situation to make some bread by calling former teammates and soliciting funds.
9) John Bond rides in on a white horse like Sir Gallahad and blows the whistle on Papa Cecil, and, by extension, all the other dirty motherfuckers involved, by reporting the solicitation to MSU, who in turn reports it to the SEC as per Mike Slive's mandate.
10) Mike Slive does his best to brush this gigantic steaming pile of elephant dung under the proverbial carpet.
11) Rumors and allegations swirl between Dec. 2009 and July 2010.
12) More information comes to light in July and the NCAA steps in.
13) Thanks to the glory that is the Information Age all this evidence is hinted at and pussy-footed around all over the internet for weeks at a time, driving ratings and web page views through the roof.
14) Auburn claims no knowledge of any wrong doing throughout the entire process.
15) Auburn decides to sit Cam Newton for the Georgia game, just in case.
16) All across Alabama frantic 911 calls take place as Auburn's fans' heads explode, leaving family and friends to pick up bits of brain, skull, and other fucked up, repugnant shit.
Get all that? Good, now on to our game...
MSU faces Alabama in Tuscaloosa this Saturday night in what is an unexpected meeting between two 7-2 SEC West teams. Mississippi State is riding high on the crest of a six-game winning streak, whereas Bama limps into the game licking their wounds after the luckiest son of a bitch alive pulls another rabbit out of his gr-ass.
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - For Mississippi State to have a chance at winning this game, they must not only establish a serviceable (if not strong) running game, but they must also present a legitimate passing threat to keep one of the best defenses in the nation from loading the box and crushing hearts, skulls and dreams. Dan Mullen was quoted as saying that Chris Relf spent considerable time in the off-week working on his passing game, and hopefully something good will come of that.
DEFENSE - MSU caught several breaks this season in the form of key players being out, whether by injury or suspension. AJ Green was held out against Georgia. Demps did not play at Florida. Case Keenum was out for Houston. The list goes on, indeed, because Trent Richardson is questionable for this weekend's game against the Bulldogs. Even so the Dawgs must prepare for a solid ground game as Mark Ingram, who won the first ever Heisman for Alabama last season, will still be a factor. MSU has been successful stopping the run for most of the season, but Greg McElroy will test the Dawgs through the air, as well. The defense must create at least 2 turnovers that the Bulldogs turn into points on the board to get this game in hand.
BOTTOM LINE -
TURNOVERS - Since the LSU game, when MSU had 5 turnovers, the Bulldogs have done a good job of taking care of the ball. They need to take it one step further this weekend, and not only protect the rock, but find ways to steal it from Bama in order to lock this game down. If the Bulldogs end up with a negative turnover ratio in this game it's as good as gone.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 30 BAMA 27
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 17 BAMA 14
Yes, you heard me. I am calling an MSU win in Tuscaloosa this weekend. The Tide have little to play for now that they are officially out of the National Championship picture, and their tanks are close to 'E' after the emotional loss last week. MSU is coming of a bye week, and although it was very emotional with the loss of Nick Bell, the Bulldogs have dedicated the rest of the season to Nick, and you can bet they will go hard every single play in his honor.
Here's to you, Nick. Only the Good Die Young.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
In Memoriam
Nick Bell - #36
I express myself through music a lot. Sometimes it reflects what's inside me trying to get out, sometimes it's a reaction to the world around me, and sometimes it reflects the state of mind I am trying to attain. Rather than make a fumbling attempt at writing a eulogy for someone I didn't have the honor of knowing personally, I am going to link some songs and excerpts from the lyrics that have meaning for me in all of this. Take from it what you will.
The Bulldogs lost a dear friend on Tuesday. A brother, a son, a friend, a warrior, and a role model. Nick Bell did not deserve to lose his life so early. This blog is dedicated to the loving memory of a Bulldog taken from us too soon. You will not be forgotten Nick. Not now, not ever.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Just a Phase...
Hello. Welcome. Watch this and then come back...
Outstanding work, no? Now then... Congratulations are in order as the Bulldogs managed to pull their collective act together and come away from a potential let-down game with a W. UAB proved to be almost more than MSU could handle, but the Bulldogs came away with a win thanks to some really solid work in the kicking game.
This week is special, not just because the Bulldogs are 6-2 in October and bowl eligible with 4 games left to improve their bowl stock, but because it's also Halloween! This is probably my favorite holiday... it started when I was a kid ("Wait... everyone we know is just GIVING AWAY CANDY?!") but now it's more about dressing up as someone completely different, or not even real, and stepping outside yourself for a night. People tend to relax a little more, let their guard down, and just generally have a good time.
So in honor of Halloween and all the ZombieDawgs that will be at the game this weekend, this week's song is...
BREAKING BENJAMIN - PHASE
Out of the ground I rise to grace.
Nobody knows it's just a phase.
Help me I'm out of breath again,
Nobody knows somewhere to make it go away...
It's just a phase,
And I can't wait...
Phase,
Phase,
Phase,
Phase.
I know, I know, I know...
iI's just a fucking phase!
IM DRAINED TIME TO FAKE AND DELAY!
WATCH THE PENNY DROP,
LET IT GO UP AND IN DROP,
THEN WATCH IT ROLL LET’S
ALL MOURN TILL I SURVIVE INSIDE YOU!
The opponent this week is a surly Kentucky Wildcats team that knocked off a talented South Carolina team a week after they defeated #1 Alabama. The 'Cats are sitting at 4-4 (1-4) and look to grab a much needed win to keep heading towards bowl eligibility. If the Bulldogs want to win this one they will need to stay focused for the entire game, because these 'Cats have some talents that could surprise you. That wasn't one of them, though...
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - Part of the Bulldogs' lack-luster performance last week can be attributed to missing some key players. Center J.C. Brignone missed the first half, while top RB Vick Ballard was held out of the entire game due to a sprained ankle sustained the week before. In Ballard's absence LaDarius Perkins pulled the majority of the running duties and performed admirably. Derek DePasquale's five field goals in last week's win over UAB gives MSU some confidence in their kicking game, as well.
Most, if not all, of the missing players last week will return to see playing time this week, so the key here is execution. Kentucky's running defense is weak to say the least, so look for MSU to pound the ball early and often.
DEFENSE - The offensive threat from Kentucky will mostly be in the air this week, especially with news that top Wildcats running back Derrick Locke will not make the trip this weekend due to a nagging shoulder injury. The problem is if the Bulldogs are susceptible to an offensive attack, it's through the air. The UAB QB lit the MSU secondary up pretty much all night. Our secondary must be up to the challenge if they want to keep the game in hand.
BOTTOM LINE -
On paper it looks like a fairly favorable match-up, but will the Bulldogs remain focused now that they know they're bowl-bound? A slip up here, loss of concentration there, and there could be some unhappy Dogs in Starkville. MSU must stay focused, and continue their outstanding streak of not turning the ball over to win this battle.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 41 UK 21
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 28 UK 24
Outstanding work, no? Now then... Congratulations are in order as the Bulldogs managed to pull their collective act together and come away from a potential let-down game with a W. UAB proved to be almost more than MSU could handle, but the Bulldogs came away with a win thanks to some really solid work in the kicking game.
This week is special, not just because the Bulldogs are 6-2 in October and bowl eligible with 4 games left to improve their bowl stock, but because it's also Halloween! This is probably my favorite holiday... it started when I was a kid ("Wait... everyone we know is just GIVING AWAY CANDY?!") but now it's more about dressing up as someone completely different, or not even real, and stepping outside yourself for a night. People tend to relax a little more, let their guard down, and just generally have a good time.
So in honor of Halloween and all the ZombieDawgs that will be at the game this weekend, this week's song is...
BREAKING BENJAMIN - PHASE
Out of the ground I rise to grace.
Nobody knows it's just a phase.
Help me I'm out of breath again,
Nobody knows somewhere to make it go away...
It's just a phase,
And I can't wait...
Phase,
Phase,
Phase,
Phase.
I know, I know, I know...
iI's just a fucking phase!
IM DRAINED TIME TO FAKE AND DELAY!
WATCH THE PENNY DROP,
LET IT GO UP AND IN DROP,
THEN WATCH IT ROLL LET’S
ALL MOURN TILL I SURVIVE INSIDE YOU!
The opponent this week is a surly Kentucky Wildcats team that knocked off a talented South Carolina team a week after they defeated #1 Alabama. The 'Cats are sitting at 4-4 (1-4) and look to grab a much needed win to keep heading towards bowl eligibility. If the Bulldogs want to win this one they will need to stay focused for the entire game, because these 'Cats have some talents that could surprise you. That wasn't one of them, though...
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - Part of the Bulldogs' lack-luster performance last week can be attributed to missing some key players. Center J.C. Brignone missed the first half, while top RB Vick Ballard was held out of the entire game due to a sprained ankle sustained the week before. In Ballard's absence LaDarius Perkins pulled the majority of the running duties and performed admirably. Derek DePasquale's five field goals in last week's win over UAB gives MSU some confidence in their kicking game, as well.
Most, if not all, of the missing players last week will return to see playing time this week, so the key here is execution. Kentucky's running defense is weak to say the least, so look for MSU to pound the ball early and often.
DEFENSE - The offensive threat from Kentucky will mostly be in the air this week, especially with news that top Wildcats running back Derrick Locke will not make the trip this weekend due to a nagging shoulder injury. The problem is if the Bulldogs are susceptible to an offensive attack, it's through the air. The UAB QB lit the MSU secondary up pretty much all night. Our secondary must be up to the challenge if they want to keep the game in hand.
BOTTOM LINE -
On paper it looks like a fairly favorable match-up, but will the Bulldogs remain focused now that they know they're bowl-bound? A slip up here, loss of concentration there, and there could be some unhappy Dogs in Starkville. MSU must stay focused, and continue their outstanding streak of not turning the ball over to win this battle.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 41 UK 21
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 28 UK 24
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Keep on Rollin'
Congratulations are in order... The Bulldogs of Mississippi State University are ranked #24 in both the AP and Coaches polls for the first time in just under a decade. If you remember my pre-game blog for the Florida game last week, you'll see I gave the Bulldogs a fighting chance to come away with the win, which they did.
Now comes relatively unknown territory for MSU, as they are in the midst of their longest winning streak since 1999. This calls for some special attention from the coaches in order to keep the players' heads on straight. To take a page from Vince Lombardi, we need to act like we've been here before. So with that in mind, Mississippi State needs to keep on rollin' and keep up the momentum.
REO Speedwagon - Roll With the Changes
I knew it had to happen
Felt the tables turning
Got me through my darkest hour
I heard the thunder clapping
Felt the desert burning
Until you poured on me
Like a sweet sun-shower
So if you`re tired
Of the same old story
Oh, turn some pages
I`ll be here when you are ready
To roll with the changes
Ohhhhh, yeah....
The now 5-2 Bulldogs are playing for the opportunity to become bowl-eligible in October, which is a great feeling for the coaches, players and fans. But if ever there was a trap game, it's... NEXT WEEK! I'm serious, I just can't imagine Dan Mullen letting these Dawgs get so lazy that a team like UAB sneaks up and takes one from them. We will leave that to the Ole Miss Rebel Black Bears Country Jamboree and Petting Zoo's of the world. That being said, let's take a look at it anyway...
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - Facing the final non-conference opponent of the season the Bulldogs will likely look to jump out to an early lead, which would allow Dan Mullen to sub in several second and third string players. The benefits are two-fold. First off taking our starting lineup out of the game early keeps them from being injured and keeps them fresh for the upcoming games. Furthermore, the extra game-time snaps give much needed experience to the players in backup positions.
If MSU jumps out to a solid lead in the first half don't be surprised to see Tyler Russell in mop-up duty for much of the game. Russell needs these reps to become further acclimated to the speed of the game at the college level, as he will likely be the projected starter at QB next season.
DEFENSE - For the defense, Manny Diaz will probably not show a lot that we haven't seen yet. That's not to say the defense won't be blitzing a healthy amount of the time, but Diaz and Wilson will likely be rotating a lot of guys out on the Defensive side of the ball as well, so their main focus here will be getting game reps to backup players.
The defensive line has been more than satisfactory during this four game win streak, and the secondary has done their share as well. Any time you rotate newer players into the mix you will have some mistakes. The key for these young guys is to bounce back and make the stops.
BOTTOM LINE -
KEEP ON ROLLIN' - Mississippi State will become bowl eligible with a win this weekend. After that they face a Kentucky team on Halloween Eve that has been hot and cold this season. A win there and the Bulldogs will have a 6 game win streak and improve their bowl stock with each successive win. The end of the season is never easy, with games against Alabama, Arkansas and Ole Miss yet to come. When common sense dictates that the Bama and Arkansas games could very well be losses, racking up as many W's as possible is key to landing a desirable bowl berth.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 47 UAB 13
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 35 UAB 14
Now comes relatively unknown territory for MSU, as they are in the midst of their longest winning streak since 1999. This calls for some special attention from the coaches in order to keep the players' heads on straight. To take a page from Vince Lombardi, we need to act like we've been here before. So with that in mind, Mississippi State needs to keep on rollin' and keep up the momentum.
REO Speedwagon - Roll With the Changes
I knew it had to happen
Felt the tables turning
Got me through my darkest hour
I heard the thunder clapping
Felt the desert burning
Until you poured on me
Like a sweet sun-shower
So if you`re tired
Of the same old story
Oh, turn some pages
I`ll be here when you are ready
To roll with the changes
Ohhhhh, yeah....
The now 5-2 Bulldogs are playing for the opportunity to become bowl-eligible in October, which is a great feeling for the coaches, players and fans. But if ever there was a trap game, it's... NEXT WEEK! I'm serious, I just can't imagine Dan Mullen letting these Dawgs get so lazy that a team like UAB sneaks up and takes one from them. We will leave that to the Ole Miss Rebel Black Bears Country Jamboree and Petting Zoo's of the world. That being said, let's take a look at it anyway...
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - Facing the final non-conference opponent of the season the Bulldogs will likely look to jump out to an early lead, which would allow Dan Mullen to sub in several second and third string players. The benefits are two-fold. First off taking our starting lineup out of the game early keeps them from being injured and keeps them fresh for the upcoming games. Furthermore, the extra game-time snaps give much needed experience to the players in backup positions.
If MSU jumps out to a solid lead in the first half don't be surprised to see Tyler Russell in mop-up duty for much of the game. Russell needs these reps to become further acclimated to the speed of the game at the college level, as he will likely be the projected starter at QB next season.
DEFENSE - For the defense, Manny Diaz will probably not show a lot that we haven't seen yet. That's not to say the defense won't be blitzing a healthy amount of the time, but Diaz and Wilson will likely be rotating a lot of guys out on the Defensive side of the ball as well, so their main focus here will be getting game reps to backup players.
The defensive line has been more than satisfactory during this four game win streak, and the secondary has done their share as well. Any time you rotate newer players into the mix you will have some mistakes. The key for these young guys is to bounce back and make the stops.
BOTTOM LINE -
KEEP ON ROLLIN' - Mississippi State will become bowl eligible with a win this weekend. After that they face a Kentucky team on Halloween Eve that has been hot and cold this season. A win there and the Bulldogs will have a 6 game win streak and improve their bowl stock with each successive win. The end of the season is never easy, with games against Alabama, Arkansas and Ole Miss yet to come. When common sense dictates that the Bama and Arkansas games could very well be losses, racking up as many W's as possible is key to landing a desirable bowl berth.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 47 UAB 13
REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 35 UAB 14
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Know Your Enemy
The Bulldogs did what was expected of them last Saturday with a solid win over a depleted Houston team. That win gave MSU it's first 3-game win streak since 2007... Meanwhile the upcoming Gators are experiencing some history of their own, but not the good kind, like you want. It seems Florida has lost back-to-back games for the first time since... 2007. So this match-up has some big-time implications for both schools.
Much has been made of the fact that Dan Mullen was the offensive coordinator for Florida during the 06 and 08 National Championship seasons. Mullen knows Urban Meyer and the much maligned Steve Addazio, who has replaced Mullen as OC for the Gators. Now obviously that works both ways, as the Florida staff is familiar with Mullen as well, but the bottom line is this knowledge could provide advantages to whomever makes the most of it... and so I give you:
Know Your Enemy
Hey yo, and get with this...uggh!
Word is born
Fight the war, fuck the norm
Now I got no patience
So sick of complacence
With the D the E the F the I the A the N the C the E
Mind of a revolutionary
So clear the lane
The finger to the land of the chains
What?
The land of the free?
Whoever told you that is your enemy
Now something must be done
About vengeance, a badge and a gun
So rip the mike, rip the stage, rip the system
I was born to rage against 'em
Now action must be taken!
We don't need the key,
We'll break in!
I've got no patience now,
So sick of complacence now.
I've got no patience now,
So sick of complacence now.
Sick of sick of sick of sick of you...
Time has come to pay...
Know your enemy!
Somewhere Zach de la Rocha's skin is crawling as I redefine his lyrics to describe college football instead of political revolution. So be it.
The Bulldogs enter this game in good position to keep their hopes of a bowl game alive, sitting at 4-2 on the season with 6 games left to play. Of those six, three are widely considered winnable, namely UAB, Kentucky and The Ole Miss Rebel Black Bears Jamboree and Petting Zoo.
That leaves games against Florida, Alabama and Arkansas, three perennial powerhouses of recent history in the SEC. Of these three, Florida looks to be the most winnable, and even beating a "bad" Florida team will improve post-season bowl stock for the Bulldogs.
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - The MSU offense appears to be firing on all cylinders after a rough start to the season. Chris Relf has improved his passing, leading to fewer INT's, and appears to have rediscovered his ability to run the ball when plays and pockets collapse. The key here is to continue the accuracy in the passing game. Florida's secondary is very talented and highly athletic, and sloppy passing is an open invitation to the pick-6 party.
Vick Ballard and the O-line will try to establish the running game, and have done so quite well in recent weeks, albeit against non-SEC competition. They must continue to refine their ground game and bust Florida in the chops in order to open up enough room for the passing game.
DEFENSE - Manny Diaz has the defense performing admirably, but that won't be enough to keep the Gators off the scoreboard this weekend. Even a Florida team sans Tebow and Harvin is still a legitimate scoring threat, and they are very fast at every position. It will be up to Diaz and the D to keep their heads on straight and focus on every play... go to sleep on one play and you'll wake up with a Gator in the end-zone.
John Brantley has been serviceable as a QB, however during the LSU game last week I noticed he spent an inordinant amount of time in the pocket on several plays, many of which resulted in lost yardage, lost downs or lost footballs. MSU will be blitzing from all sides, trying to get to Brantley and pressure him into making poor decisions with the ball.
BOTTOM LINE -
QB PRESSURE - Getting to Brantley is the key to winning this game. In the seconds or even milliseconds it takes for Brantley to recognize where the pressure is coming from, make a decision and move the ball the MSU secondary must lock down his options down the field. Show him a wall of Maroon and the Bulldogs have a fighting chance to saunter out of the Swamp winners. Show him swiss cheese and watch him shred it all day long.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 27 UF 21
REALISTIC PREDICITON -
MSU 17 UF 27
Much has been made of the fact that Dan Mullen was the offensive coordinator for Florida during the 06 and 08 National Championship seasons. Mullen knows Urban Meyer and the much maligned Steve Addazio, who has replaced Mullen as OC for the Gators. Now obviously that works both ways, as the Florida staff is familiar with Mullen as well, but the bottom line is this knowledge could provide advantages to whomever makes the most of it... and so I give you:
Know Your Enemy
Hey yo, and get with this...uggh!
Word is born
Fight the war, fuck the norm
Now I got no patience
So sick of complacence
With the D the E the F the I the A the N the C the E
Mind of a revolutionary
So clear the lane
The finger to the land of the chains
What?
The land of the free?
Whoever told you that is your enemy
Now something must be done
About vengeance, a badge and a gun
So rip the mike, rip the stage, rip the system
I was born to rage against 'em
Now action must be taken!
We don't need the key,
We'll break in!
I've got no patience now,
So sick of complacence now.
I've got no patience now,
So sick of complacence now.
Sick of sick of sick of sick of you...
Time has come to pay...
Know your enemy!
Somewhere Zach de la Rocha's skin is crawling as I redefine his lyrics to describe college football instead of political revolution. So be it.
The Bulldogs enter this game in good position to keep their hopes of a bowl game alive, sitting at 4-2 on the season with 6 games left to play. Of those six, three are widely considered winnable, namely UAB, Kentucky and The Ole Miss Rebel Black Bears Jamboree and Petting Zoo.
That leaves games against Florida, Alabama and Arkansas, three perennial powerhouses of recent history in the SEC. Of these three, Florida looks to be the most winnable, and even beating a "bad" Florida team will improve post-season bowl stock for the Bulldogs.
KEYS TO THE GAME -
OFFENSE - The MSU offense appears to be firing on all cylinders after a rough start to the season. Chris Relf has improved his passing, leading to fewer INT's, and appears to have rediscovered his ability to run the ball when plays and pockets collapse. The key here is to continue the accuracy in the passing game. Florida's secondary is very talented and highly athletic, and sloppy passing is an open invitation to the pick-6 party.
Vick Ballard and the O-line will try to establish the running game, and have done so quite well in recent weeks, albeit against non-SEC competition. They must continue to refine their ground game and bust Florida in the chops in order to open up enough room for the passing game.
DEFENSE - Manny Diaz has the defense performing admirably, but that won't be enough to keep the Gators off the scoreboard this weekend. Even a Florida team sans Tebow and Harvin is still a legitimate scoring threat, and they are very fast at every position. It will be up to Diaz and the D to keep their heads on straight and focus on every play... go to sleep on one play and you'll wake up with a Gator in the end-zone.
John Brantley has been serviceable as a QB, however during the LSU game last week I noticed he spent an inordinant amount of time in the pocket on several plays, many of which resulted in lost yardage, lost downs or lost footballs. MSU will be blitzing from all sides, trying to get to Brantley and pressure him into making poor decisions with the ball.
BOTTOM LINE -
QB PRESSURE - Getting to Brantley is the key to winning this game. In the seconds or even milliseconds it takes for Brantley to recognize where the pressure is coming from, make a decision and move the ball the MSU secondary must lock down his options down the field. Show him a wall of Maroon and the Bulldogs have a fighting chance to saunter out of the Swamp winners. Show him swiss cheese and watch him shred it all day long.
WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 27 UF 21
REALISTIC PREDICITON -
MSU 17 UF 27
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