Will Tyrann Mathieu Do To Andrew Luck, What Charles Woodson Did To Peyton Manning?

In my opinion there are several interesting parallels between this year's Heisman race and in 1997 when the front runners were Peyton Manning and Charles Woodson.  That year Woodson became the only defensive player to ever win the Heisman Trophy as his alma mater The University of Michigan also claimed the National Championship, while Tennessee finished the regular season ranked third and were blown out by Nebraska in the Orange Bowl 42-17.  Interestingly enough both Manning and Woodson have put together incredible pro careers with each earning Super Bowl rings and are likely future Hall of Famers.

I find the connection in the Heisman Trophy race between Stanford Quarterback Andrew Luck and LSU Cornerback Tyrann Mathieu, aka "The Honey Badger ", very similar to that of between Peyton Manning and Charles Woodson in 1997.  Luck is considered the best quarterback pro prospect since Manning, while Mathieu displays many of the big play characteristics that Woodson did.  Much like Woodson and playing the same position,  Mathieu has shown a knack for making big plays, including both turning turnovers into touchdowns and serving as a special teams threat. 

The circumstances between the teams are also very similar.  Just like Woodson's 1997 Michigan Wolverines defeated Washington State in the Rose Bowl for the National Championship, it is Mathieu's Bayou Bengals that are playing for the BCS Trophy.  Similarily, Luck's Stanford Cardinal team is playing for 3rd place against Oklahoma State in The Fiesta Bowl, as Manning's Volunteers did in a losing effort against Nebraska in the 1997 Orange Bowl. 

Of course the big difference is that Manning and Woodson are considered frontrunners.  Luck and Mathieu are not.  The surprising favorite is Baylor Quarterback Robert Griffin III.  Griffin has put up astonomical numbers during his career while greatly elevating the Baylor Bears football program.  I am a fan of Griffin too.  I wonder though if he would still be considered a Heisman candidate if he had gone against SEC defenses each week. 

However, the best athlete of the Heisman finalists in my opinion is Alabama RB Trent Richardson. Richardson runs with the charge and fury of a bustin' bronco bull as the gate is open during a rodeo.  His combination of strength and speed remind me very much of that of Minnesota Vikings Running Back Adrian Peterson.  Howeve,r hurting Richardson's chances are that Alabama had a Heisman just two years ago in Mark Ingram, and that he was held scoreless in the Crimson Tide's loss to LSU.

So the big question between Mathieu and Luck is not whether Mathieu will swipe the Heisman from Luck, like Woodson did to Manning in 1997?  But, whether he will just beat Luck in the voting.  However, the Honey Badger does just takes what he wants.  We know that he wants interceptions, fumbles and Cobras.  We'll see tonight if the Honey Badger takes a Heisman Trophy too.

Richardson Stays Grateful For Strong Family Support

TUSCALOOSA | Aunt Dorothy hung in for more than three quarters to say a final goodbye to Trent Richardson.
Then she was gone.
It was the night of the University of Alabama's 24-7 victory over Mississippi State, and Richardson had just punched in a late touchdown from 2 yards out that clinched the victory. His Aunt Dorothy was watching the game, lying on the couch, riddled with cancer. She raised her hand in the air, said a few words about the nephew she treated like a son, then ...
To continue reading:   http://alabama.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1304652

Trent Richardson vs The Honey Badger

It is a great tribute to the Gulf Coast’s strong tradition of producing great football players that two out of the five Heisman finalists are Gulf Coast natives. It is also unusual circumstances that both Alabama RB Trent Richardson (Pensacola) and LSU CB Tyrann Mathieu (New Orleans) will be butting heads for the second time this season when their teams meet for the National Championship on January 9^th in the Mercedez-Benz Superdome. Great mutual respect has been displayed between the two rivals and Heisman finalists, with Richardson praising Mathieu’s play making ability to the media, and Mathieu responding via twitter, "Much love, Bro."

Still, will it be awkward with Richardson and Mathieu sitting side by side in the New York Downtown Athletic Club during the awards presentation? With apologies to Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III and Montee Ball, what do you say they clear the room and have the Heisman decided between Richardson and The Honey Badger in a one-on-one tackling drill right their in their suits? Or at least have it as an added attraction to the ceremony.

Who do you think would win? Richardson or the Honey Badger?

Curtis Johnson Brings Recruiting Prowess To Tulane Job

Opportunity knocks for new Tulane coach Johnson with local recruits

By Ed Daniels
A prominent high school football coach told me this week, "You watch C.J.; he will get players in from around here."
C.J. is new Tulane football coach Curtis Johnson.
A prominent Tulanian told me this week, "We don't need the third or fourth tier local player. We need an occasional one that LSU wanted and get most of those second tier in-state players."
With those two thoughts in mind, and understanding that Johnson says he will honor the commitments of those players recruited by previous head coach Bob Toledo, here's some of those who might have been from the class of 2012.
To continue reading:  http://www.sportsnola.com/sports/tulane/578170-opportunity-knocks-for-new-tulane-coach-johnson-with-local-recruits.html

"I am a Ragin Cajun" - Mark Hudspeth

On the same day Hugh Freeze officially left Arkansas State to coach Ole Miss and Tulane introduced New Orleans Saints wide receivers coach Curtis Johnson as its new coach, UL head coach Mark Hudspeth insisted he isn't going anywhere any time soon — and Ragin' Cajuns Athletic Director Scott Farmer said Hudspeth deserves a pay raise and a contract extension.

"We want to make Coach one of the top-paid coaches in our conference," said Farmer, whose Cajuns belong to the Sun Belt Conference.

To continue reading:  http://www.theadvertiser.com/article/20111206/SPORTS/112060315/-am-staying-here-UL-wants-give-Hudspeth-raise-extension?odyssey=obinsite

Fedora To Be Named Head Coach At UNC

Sorry to see Larry Fedora leaving Southern Miss.   From The Hattiesburg American:

Farewell coach Fedora

Larry Fedora will go out on top at Southern Miss.
The University of Southern Mississippi head coach leaves the program to take the same position at North Carolina, the Winston-Salem (N.C.) Journal reported Tuesday night after several sources close to the situation verified the selection.
Fedora's Golden Eagles went 11-2 this season to set a program record for total wins in a season.
To continue reading:  http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20111207/NEWS01/112070301/Farewell-coach-Fedora?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

LSU Defensive Coordinator John Chavis Named Nation's Top Assistant

The offseason honors keep rolling in for LSU as defensive coordinator John Chavis was awarded the Broyles Award as the nation's top assistant coach.

Chavis is the first assistant coach in LSU history to receive the honor. The other finalists were Wisconsin offensive coordinator Paul Chryst, Michigan defensive coordinator Greg Mattison, former Arkansas offensive coordinator Garrick McGee and Alabama assistant head coach Sal Sunseri.

For full article:  http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2011/12/lsu_defensive_coordinator_john_10.html

Southern Miss Dominates Unbeaten Houston For Conference USA Championship

Defensively, the Golden Eagles held Houston to a season-low in points and knocked the Cougars out of a BCS bowl thanks to two interceptions against Heisman Trophy candidate Case Keenum, who had thrown three interceptions all season.
Southern Miss improved to 11-2 and established a school record for wins in a season.
Now, Southern Miss coach Larry Fedora is already campaigning for a BCS bowl game. The Golden Eagles entered the game with a BCS ranking of No. 23.
Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2011/12/03/3611035/cougar-crushing.html#ixzz1faN4kN6D

MGCCC Plays Blinn In Mississippi Bowl At Biloxi High

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is unbeaten in the Mississippi Bowl.
The ninth-ranked Bulldogs want to maintain that status quo when they face No. 5 Blinn College Biloxi Stadium in the fourth annual Mississippi Bowl.
MGCCC is 9-2 while Blinn is 9-1.

Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2011/12/03/3610837/gulf-coast-seeks-one-more-mississippi.html#ixzz1faM5LxlV

TRENT RICHARDSON SAYS HE IS HUNGRY FOR LSU

"I'm very hungry for them," said running back Trent Richardson, who made his last pitch to Heisman Trophy voters with a career-high 203 rushing yards and also caught a touchdown pass against Auburn (7-5, 4-4).

"I'll speak on my team's behalf. I don't feel like that game is over. I already had some buddies at LSU call me and say, 'See you in New Orleans.' I can't wait to possibly meet them there."

As long as the Crimson Tide finishes in the top two of the BCS standings, they'll head for New Orleans in early January. The final standings will be released Dec. 4, but LSU has some more business to take care of before then.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/sec/story/2011-11-26/alabama-auburn/51412348/1

LSU Defense VS Arkansas Offense

By ESPN.Com Blogger Edward Aschoff:

Welcome to another themed game for LSU.

First, we had “The Game,” which was all about defense. Heading in, we expected two sledgehammers to furiously crash into each other in Tuscaloosa, Ala., and that’s exactly what we got with only field goals as scores.

This week, with the SEC and possibly the national championship on the line, the top-ranked Tigers (11-0, 7-0) are involved in another name game with No. 3 Arkansas (10-1, 6-1).

LSU defensive end Barkevious Mingo labeled this “The Game: Part 2,” but the Offense-Defense Bowl might be more appropriate.
For full article:  http://espn.go.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/33597/offense-defense-bowl-in-baton-rouge

Trent Richardson A Finalist For Doak Walker And Maxwell Awards

Let the award hype begin.
Escambia High graduate and Alabama running back Trent Richardson has earned a spot as a finalist for two of the nation's most prestigious awards. He is among the final three candidates for the Doak Walker Award — given to the nation's top running back — and the Maxwell Award — given to college football's player of the year.
Both awards will be presented during the Home Depot College Football Awards on Dec. 8 in Orlando. Richardson is also considered a top contender for the Heisman Trophy on Dec. 10 in New York City.
For Full Article:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20111122/SPORTS/111220319/Alabama-s-Trent-Richardson-racks-up-award-nominations?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

LSU-Alabama Rematch Would Diminish Their Regular Season Contest

By Mike Herndon of The Mobile Press-Register

For all the arguments used to defend the BCS, it looks like one is about to go out the window: The whole season is playoff.
          
If this season ends with an LSU-Alabama rematch, as is now expected, the season itself is not a playoff. If it was, the Crimson Tide would be eliminated.
           
If No. 1 LSU and No. 2 Alabama meet in a rematch on Jan 9 in the BCS championship game, it will be as though the Tigers' 9-6 overtime win over Alabama had never been played.
For Full Article:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/11/lsu-alabama_rematch_would_mean.html

LSU AND ALABAMA REMATCH SHOULD BE PLAYED IN JACKSON

By Win

             If LSU and Alabama face each other in a rematch for the National Championship, which is the likely scenario at the moment after Oklahoma State fell from grace with their loss to Iowa State Friday night, then the game should be played at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson.  Yes, my hometown Jackson, the Crossroads of the South, is aptly named.  Especially under these circumstances as it is equidistance between Baton Rouge and Tuscaloosa. 

A rematch for the National Championship in New Orleans between Alabama and LSU would surely produce one of the biggest party atmoshpheres the city has ever seen.  And even as a Mississippi State fan but only living an hour away, I am confident that I would find a way to be a part of it.  However, national championship games just should not be played in the home states of either of its participants.  I felt the same way about the Rose Bowl determining the national championship when USC played in it and the Orange Bowl deciding the national championship games when Miami played in during the 80’s and 90’s.   If this was LSU playing in the Sugar Bowl that would be different.

            Jackson would be the perfect neutral spot for an LSU and Alabama National Championship Game.   It is roughly 174 miles from Baton Rouge and 185 miles from Tuscaloosa.  That is only slightly farther, if that, from Oxford and Starkville.  With their close proximities, each school already has a strong fan base in Jackson that rarely holds back in its towards Mississippi State and Ole Miss during football season.  And while Mississippi State and Ole Miss have produced some big wins against Alabama and LSU they have usually been on the losing end, with many of those road victories by the Crimson Tide and Tigers coming in Jackson before the Bulldogs and the Institution of Higher Learning formerly known as the Rebels moved all of their home games to campus.  So, see a National Championship game in Jackson between Alabama and LSU would be like a home game for each program based on their successful track records at Veterans Memorial Stadium.

            There is also the likely argument that Jackson does not have the hotel capacity for the huge overflow of fans coming into town.  No problem.  While Mississippi may not have the college football success that Alabama and LSU has experienced, we certainly don’t take a backseat to our neighbors when it comes to Southern Hospitality.  I am confident that Jacksonians would open up their homes to Alabama and LSU fans as if they are foreign exchange students from far away lands,  which is how we kind of view them anyway.  

            Another concern would be that Memorial Stadium would not be able to handle a game of this magnitude and that it does not have enough seats.  Both of those points are overblown.  Let me remind the naysayers that an invite to the Poulan Weedeater Independence Bowl in Shreveport has been at stake by the outcome of many Egg Bowls that were played at Veterans Memorial Stadium.  So, Jackson obviously knows how to handle big time college football.

            In regards to seating, the seating capacity for the Mercedes-Benz Superdome where the game is scheduled to be played is roughly 72,000.  The 1984 SWAC Showdown between Mississippi Valley State and Alcorn State University had a crown in excess of 65,000 that also included yours truly, so that is really not much of a difference.  Sports media representatives from across the country descended on Memorial Stadium in this rare Sunday afternoon college game to cover an All-American wide receiver for the Delta Devils named Jerry Rice who happened to get shut down that day by Alcorn’s own All-American cornerback Ike Holt in the Braves 42-28 victory.  So if the Egg Bowl doesn’t do it for you with MS Veterans Memorial Stadium’s ability to handle big time games, consider that contest.

            When it comes down to it though, all that is really needed to play this game is a 100 Yard Field and MS Veterans Memorial Stadium has that covered too.

            Tide and Tiger fans:  Should you finish the remainder of the season without any further losses, where would you like to play in the BCS National Championship Game?

            Jacksonians:  Do you have a spare bed room?

GREEN WAVE COACHING SEARCH EXTENDS TO GREEN BAY

Report says Tulane is interested in Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin

By Tammy Nunez of The Times-Picayune

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Monday evening that Tulane has interest in Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin.
Schefter said Philbin also has interest in NFL opportunities, but it may be difficult to go through interviewing processes until the season ends because of league hiring rules. Philbin was promoted to Green Bay's offensive coordinator in 2007.
Philbin has 27 years of experience, including 19 in the college ranks, Philbin came to Green Bay after four seasons as offensive line coach at Iowa (1999-2002).
For full article:  http://www.nola.com/tulane/index.ssf/2011/11/post_15.html

USM QB Austin Davis Seeks To Rewrite Personal History VS UAB

By Clarion Ledger Columnist Rick Cleveland:

No joke here: Davis thinks only of UAB

HATTIESBURG — Somebody kidded Larry Fedora late Monday afternoon: Will you even say the words Southern Miss and Sugar Bowl in the same sentence? He didn't laugh. Didn't even chuckle.
"You won't hear me say it, I'll promise you that," Fedora said. "The only words you'll hear from my mouth this week are about UAB."
Fedora would have been proud of his quarterback Austin Davis a few minutes earlier. Asked about the possibility of 9-1 Southern Miss winning out and playing in a BCS bowl game, presumably the Sugar Bowl, Davis stared blankly.
For full article:  http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20111115/COL0504/111150335/No-joke-here-Davis-thinks-only-UAB?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Home|p

TRENT RICHARDSON GAINING GROUND ON LUCK IN HEISMAN RACE

TUSCALOOSA, Alabama -- The Heisman Trophy race was starting to look like a runaway for Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck.
Alabama running back Trent Richardson might have been his closest competitor, but he might have been rated a distant second.
Funny how things can change in one night.
To continue reading:   http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/11/heisman_watch_how_tides_trent.html

HONEY BADGER RESPONDS TO SUSPENSION

Mathieu, speaking on Monday for the first time since his one-game suspension last month for violating the team's drug policy, said he understands now how he let his teammates down, and that he won't let it happen again.
"I have to grow up fast in this business," said Mathieu, who this season began wearing the No. 7 that Peterson wore at LSU. "It definitely humbled me off the field. I think you have to go through things to see the bigger picture ... My teammates were there for me and my coaches were there for me, so it was really about me trying to stay focused on the things that mean the most to me and that's being a student at LSU and wearing those colors every Saturday."
To continue reading:  http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/7235418/lsu-tyrann-mathieu-says-humbled-suspension

NCAA Passing Leader Case Keenum Brings Houston Air Attack Into Mercedes-Benz Superdome Tonight

The Superdome Scoreboard could get quite a workout tonight.  Here is article from Tammy Nunez of Nola.Com on Tulane's match with the #11th ranked Houston Cougars and the nation's leading passer Case Keenum tonight.

Houston quarterback Keenum has sights set on Tulane Green Wave

Case Keenum has plenty of reasons to saunter into the Mercedes-Benz Superdome tonight and play flat.

Keenum, Houston’s sixth-year senior quarterback, holds NCAA records for career yards with 17,212 (set last week at UAB), touchdown passes (141), touchdowns accounted for (163) and total offense (18,101 yards). He leads the nation this season with 3,626 yards passing and 34 touchdowns.
To continue reading:   http://www.nola.com/tulane/index.ssf/2011/11/houston_quarterback_keenum_has.html

Les Miles's Biggest Time Management Dilemma: Parenting

A really great in depth story by Wright Thompson from ESPN.Com on how Les Miles stays committed to being a strong presence in the day to day life of his four children despite the time constraints and pressures that come with being the head coach of a major college football program.

BATON ROUGE, La. -- Every time Les Miles leaves the island of his office, he finds himself surrounded by other people's families. They crowd around, extending hands and scraps of paper, fathers urging boys to summon the courage to speak to the famous coach. At his weekly radio show, to which he is currently driving, a man will thrust a baby into his arms. Miles winds around the swampy lakes of Baton Rouge, the headlights of his white Cadillac SUV throwing shadows off the moss-covered live oaks. Set back from the water, each house glows warm and yellow.

The people in those homes are finished with their days, but he's still at work, a few minutes before 7 p.m. His mind focuses on the upcoming game with Alabama, perhaps the most important of his career. In the middle of a bye week, everything remains a question. Will the team execute? Will he put the players in position to win? And, beneath the worries of his job, another: Should he spend Friday night recruiting? Or should he find a spot in the University High stands, cheering on freshman wide receiver Manny Miles, who caught his first varsity touchdown pass a week ago? Should he watch someone else's child -- or his own?
To continue reading:  http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/eticket/story?page=111103/LesMiles

ESPN To Air Roll Tide/War Eagle Documentary

Great looking documentary scheduled to air on ESPN next Tuesday night:

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- While describing Tuesday night why he decided to produce a new ESPN documentary about the Alabama-Auburn rivalry, producer Martin Khodabakhshian reached a conclusion heard often in this state.
"I've got to tell you, you guys are nuts!" Khodabakshian told a packed crowd at the Alabama Theatre for the premiere of "Roll Tide/War Eagle."
At which point, as if on cue to enhance the stereotype of this state, someone in the audience shouted: "Welcome to Alabama!"
To continue reading:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/11/espn_documentary_roll_tidewar.html

Saban vs Miles

Forget about comparing LSU and Alabama's offenses and defenses, take a look at how ESPN.Com ranks Nick Saban and Les Miles on such characteristics as nicknames, quotes, hair style and favorite snacks:

If we're going to break down the game, then let's look at the real coaching matchup between Bama's Nick Saban and LSU's Les Miles.


Best Nickname:
Saban: "The Most Powerful Coach in Sports" (as designated by Forbes magazine in 2008).
Miles: "The Mad Hatter."
Advantage -- Miles.


Best Quote:
Saban: "It's a process."
Miles: "I've got a championship game to play and I'm excited about the opportunity of my damn strong football team to play in it."
Advantage -- Miles.

For full list:  http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/7175862/the-bmoc-chews-coaches-expansion-more

Busy South Alabama Freshman Running Back J.J. Keels Picks Up Punt And Kickoff Return Duties

MOBILE, Ala. -- South Alabama freshman running back J.J. Keels earned his first start at running back in last Saturday's 28-3 win over Henderson State. Before the game was over, Keels found himself in two more roles -- returning punts and kickoffs for the Jaguars.
The running back spot was earned with a solid week of practice leading up to the Henderson State game. Keels, a true freshman from Melbourne, Fla., became the third Jag to get a starting nod at the position, joining Kendall Houston and Demetre Baker.
To continue reading:   http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/11/practice_is_paying_off_for_sou.html

MILES EXPRESSES ADMIRATION FOR SABAN

While Miles didn't talk about replacing Saban, he did say he respects his ability as a coach and looks forward to the challenge Saturday.
"I have to be very honest with you. I have great respect for a very strong and capable coach at Alabama in Nick Saban," Miles said. "You watch how he prepares his team and how you play, and if you don't admire how that happens, you don't care much about football.
"It is a wonderful opportunity to have the chance to compete against the best."
For full article:  http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2011/11/lsu_tigers_coach_les_miles_has.html

Trent Richardson Shares Challenging Life Experiences With Pensacola Church Audience During Offweek

By Bill Vilona, Pensacola News Journal
"Growing up was hard," said Richardson, an Escambia High graduate, who has grown into one of college football's megastars as tailback for the No. 2 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide. "My brothers and I, there might be days we would go without eating. I didn't know what was going to be in front of my life." On his only off-weekend, exactly one week before a Super Bowl-hyped showdown against LSU that will mean the season and his own Heisman Trophy status, Richardson returned home to pour his soul.
He wanted the youth football players, their parents, the fanatical Crimson Tide fans and everyone else in the overflow crowd to understand what shaped his life, what made him plow through adversity the way he now sheds tacklers.
For full article:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20111030/SPORTS/110300332/Alabama-s-Trent-Richardson-comes-home?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|FRONTPAGE|p

Les Miles: The Steady Hand Behind Team Turmoil

That ability Miles possesses -- to compartmentalize anything, from a major tragedy to minor distractions, and focus on the now -- has served him well while coaching "Team Turmoil" to an 8-0 record and No. 1 ranking heading into Saturday's epic clash against No. 2 Alabama. That game will provide another test of his ability to insulate his team from the massive hype buildup coming this week.
Besides the personal loss of his sister, he's dealt with an assistant coach's illness that forced a juggling of duties, a bar fight involving several Tigers that brought weeks of unwanted national attention and the suspensions of seven players stretching across the past three months.
It's the other side of the Miles' "Mad Hatter" public persona -- awkward in his syntax, devil-may-care with his in-game coaching strategies and occasionally eccentric in his behavior, such as nibbling on the field grass during games.
For full article:  http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2011/10/les_miles_leads_lsu_football_t.html

BAMA FAN BASE GROWS AROUND THE BIG EASY

To chat with Julie Moreau about college football is to find a kindred spirit. She's cordial, pleasant, well-schooled in the Southeastern Conference and the storied traditions that make Saturdays so special each fall. Until she goes for the jugular.
"Roll Tide!" the Mandeville resident says cheerily, with nary a hint of trepidation, as if it's something to be accepted.
Certainly "Roll Tide" doesn't carry the clout of "Geaux Tigers" in these parts, but Moreau is part of a larger-than-you-probably-realize group of University of Alabama football fans living in metro New Orleans.
For full article:  http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2011/10/bama_fans_infiltrating_traditi.html

Jones County Runs Over Pearl River

POPLARVILLE – Jones Junior College put a Tiger in its tank Thursday night, and rode him to a most satisfying finish.
Bobcat sophomore tailback Lavoris Powell, who answers to the nickname of Tiger, powered Jones to a convincing 35-7 thumping of Pearl River in the 81st annual Cat Fight at Dobie Holden Stadium.
With both teams already out of the South Division playoff race, pride was the only thing at stake, and it was pretty clear that the Bobcats wanted this one a lot more than the Wildcats. Jones finished 6-3 overall and 3-3 in the division, while PRCC dropped to 4-5 and 3-3.
To continue reading:  http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20111028/SPORTS/111027015/JCJC-bests-PRCC-Catfight-?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|FRONTPAGE|p

CAGED TIGERS BACK ON PRACTICE FIELD

By Les East of the Baton Rouge Advocate:

 LSU cornerbacks Tyrann Mathieu and Tharold Simon and running back Spencer Ware returned to practice Tuesday after being held out of last week’s game against Auburn as disciplinary action.

Coach Les Miles made the announcement Tuesday night after the top-ranked Tigers returned to practice for the first time since the 45-10 victory on Saturday. LSU has an open date this week before visiting No. 2 Alabama on Nov. 5.

“If they continue to do the things that they’re doing, we would anticipate that they would play (against the Crimson Tide),” Miles said. “We’re not going to live in deadlines in any way. We’re practicing and preparing them to play and operating along that way. We’re going to practice them and plan on using them.

For full article:  http://theadvocate.com/sports/1167052-123/miles-tigers-trio-returns-to.html

Is First Year Ragin Cajun Coach Mark Hudspeth To Dan Mullen, What Mullen Was To Urban Meyer?

Mark Hudspeth is off to a roaring start in his first year as head coach for the University of Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns.  After losing their opener to Oklahoma State, the Cajuns have reeled off six straight victories and are leading the Sun Belt Conference.  Hudspeth comes to ULL from Mississippi State where he served as receivers coach and passing game coordinator.  His absence is apparent in Starkville as the Bulldogs passing game has struggled mightily this year.  Could Hudspeth be to Dan Mullen, what Mullen was to Urban Meyer?  While there are certainly other factors to be considered, parallels can be made betweent the drop in Florida's offensive production after Mullen left for Starkville, and the decline in Mississippi State's offensive effectiveness after Hudspeth left to takeover the Cajuns.

Hudspeth's success has also earned him national attention.  He has been named a finalist for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award.  Hudspeth has also received very positive media reviews both for his team's on field success and for reigniting the Ragin Cajun fan base (much like Mullen has also done with Bulldog fans).

Below is an excellent article from Andrea Adelson of ESPN.Com on Hudspeth's success.  Be sure to also check Bill Bumgarner's thoughts on Hudspeth's impact on his sportsnola.com blog at http://www.sportsnola.com/sports/local-sports-news/ull-news/576368-hudspeths-first-season-has-energized-ragin-cajuns-football.html.

Mark Hudspeth rejuvenates ULL

He is in his first season as a head coach. His team is young. Not particularly deep, either.

Does that sound like a recipe for success?

Louisiana-Lafayette coach Mark Hudspeth laughed when asked that very question. His team has bucked convention at 6-1, setting the record for best start in Sun Belt history as it prepares to play Western Kentucky on Saturday. Hudspeth took over a team that went 3-9 last season and a program that many said could never win.

“Our team has bought into the work ethic I wanted to bring into our program,” Hudspeth said in a recent phone interview. “I feel we’ve outworked everybody in the country to prepare our team physically and mentally.
To continue reading: 
http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/50273/mark-hudspeth-rejuvenates-ull?DB_OEM_ID=15400

  

HONEY BADGER JUST SMOKES WHAT HE WANTS

Here is Jim Kleinpeter's article from The Times Picayune on the suspensions of LSU's Tyrann Mathieu, Spencer Ware and Tharold Simon.  Since LSU will not confirm the reasons for the suspensions, obviously the blogpost title is an assumption.

LSU coach Les Miles on Wednesday declined to confirm that three key players on his top-ranked team will not play against No. 24 Auburn on Saturday afternoon at Tiger Stadium.

Sources told The Times-Picayune that cornerbacks Tyrann Mathieu and Tharold Simon and running back Spencer Ware, all sophomores, would be held out of the game after testing positive for synthetic marijuana.
The LSU school newspaper, The Daily Reveille, first reported Mathieu and Ware were suspended.

Miles asserted that it was an internal matter.
For full article:  http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2011/10/lsu_tigers_trio_said_to_be_sus.html

THE HONEY BADGER AND TWO OTHERS FACE SUSPENSIONS FOR LSU

From Scott Rabalais of The Baton Rouge Advocate:

Three players for the No. 1-ranked LSU football team -- cornerbacks Tyrann Mathieu and Tharold Simon and running back Spencer Ware -- have been suspended for violation of team rules for Saturday's game against No. 19 Auburn, a source familiar with the situation said Wednesday.

There was no word whether the suspensions will extend beyond this week's contest. LSU has an open date next week before traveling to face No. 2 Alabama on Nov. 5.
For full article:  http://theadvocate.com/home/1116932-125/lsu-suspends-three-football-team.html

Trent Richardson's Heisman Stock Rises

Good editorial from Bill Vilona of the Pensacola News Journal regarding the surge in the Heisman race by native son Trent Richardson following his 17 carry 183 yards rushing performance in Alabama's victory over Ole Miss on Saturday.

When you're Trent Richardson, you don't need a slogan, a poster, promotion trinkets or a campaign manager.
You just need a football.
The mention of Richardson and the Heisman Trophy has now gained closer connection. He's gone from the others-to-watch list a few weeks ago into a fast elevator ride toward top billing.
Various Heisman Trophy candidate rankings, including ESPN, have Alabama's star tailback and Escambia High graduate among the top three in the race.
For full article:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20111019/SPORTS/110190343/Bill-Vilona-Trent-rushes-front-Heisman-race?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Sports

Muschamp Apologizes For Dirty Words

Muschamp apologized Tuesday for his colorful words that were caught by television cameras during his team's 17-6 loss at Auburn last week. But the emotional first-year coach said he has no plans to temper his sideline antics.
"Just the language," Muschamp said. "It's hard when you've got a 6-year-old and a 10-year-old at home and you've got to go home and explain to them what you said. So that's not good and that's not how we're going to run our program. That's it. Again, as far as the sideline stuff's concerned, we're going to be who we are. I'm just apologizing for the language, nothing else."
For full article:  http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/7119493/florida-gators-muschamp-apologizes-foul-language

RAGIN CAJUNS RIDE INTO HOMECOMING WEEK WITH IMPESSIVE 5-1 RECORD

Its homecoming week at The University of Louisiana at Lafayette.  The 5-1 Ragin Cajuns, under first year head coach Mark Hudspeth, are off to one of their best starts in a long time and are coming off an impressive 31-17 victory over Troy State.  Their only loss is to Top 10 ranked Oklahoma State.  Kickoff is at 4:00 Saturday against North Texas. 

Here is more from the Lafayette Advertiser on upbeat vibe on campus:

"Our football team is doing so well that it has really made homecoming week so much more exciting," senior Danielle Cottonham said. "There is so much excitement around campus that I've noticed a lot more people are wearing red on Fridays. There is more Cajuns gear being worn around campus and less LSU stuff. I feel like a lot more people around here are taking more pride in their university and that is great to see."

For full article:  http://www.theadvertiser.com/article/20111011/NEWS01/110110312/Cajuns-spirit?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

McCarron Sets Personal Records, Eliminates Mistakes

Alabam first year starting quarterback AJ McCarron from Mobile St. Paul High School had several career highs in the Crimson Tide's 34-0 victory over Vanderbilt, while also continuing to demonstrate effective game management skills.

AJ McCarron acing Alabama's course in Game Management 101

By Izzy Gold, Tuscaloosa Bureau
TUSCALOOSA, Alabama -- The progression of AJ McCarron continued Saturday night in a 34-0 win against Vanderbilt. 

The Crimson Tide's starting quarterback completed 23-of-30 passes for 237 yards and four touchdowns -- all career highs.

For full article:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/aj_mccarron_acing_alabamas_cou.html

THREE WEEK ROAD TRIP CONCLUDES WITH HARD FOUGHT VICTORY FOR SOUTH ALABAMA JAGUARS

By Tommy Hicks of The Mobile Press-Register
SAN ANTONIO -- Ladd-Peebles Stadium probably looks pretty good to Joey Jones and his South Alabama football team right now. After three straight road games and an off week, the Jaguars are looking forward to playing in front of the home crowd again.
The three-game stretch, which ended with a 30-27 double-overtime victory against Texas-San Antonio at the Alamodome on Saturday, is the longest of the program's history. It began with trips to FBS schools North Carolina State and Kent State, the school's first defeats.
Read more:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/south_alabama_jaguars_ready_to.html

Disappointment Continues For Florida State

From Joedy McCreary of the AP republished in The Pensacola News Journal online:


WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- Josh Harris kept breaking off long runs, and Tanner Price followed with touchdown passes. They gave Wake Forest its best start to ACC play -- and yet another victory over Florida State.
Price threw three scoring passes, Harris rushed for 136 yards and Wake Forest upset the 23rd-ranked Seminoles 35-30 on Saturday.
Price was 21 of 35 for 233 yards with touchdowns covering 22 yards to Chris Givens, 2 yards to Tommy Bohanon and 8 yards to Terence Davis.
For full article:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20111009/SPORTS/110090332/FSU-continues-losing-streak-35-30?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Sports|p

AJ McCarron Sets Personal Record With 4TD Passes In Bama Win Over Vandy

It took a while for the Alabama offense to get things going in their 34-0 win over Vanderbilt, but when they did Quarterback AJ McCarron set a personal record with 4 touchdown passes.  McCarron prepped at St. Paul's in Mobile where his favorite target was Crimson Tide teammate and All American free safety Mark Barron.  Here is more on the game from John Zenor of the Associated Press publised in the Pensacola News Journal:

'Bama QB McCarron sends Tide's past Vanderbilt

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — AJ McCarron passed for career-highs of 237 yards and four touchdowns as No. 2 Alabama beat Vanderbilt 34-0 on Saturday night.
Trent Richardson rushed for 107 yards and a touchdown in his fifth straight 100-yard effort for the Crimson Tide (6-0, 3-0 Southeastern Conference), which already has two shutouts.
The Commodores (3-2, 1-2) trailed by only seven points until the final minute of the opening half, then Alabama brushed them aside with four straight touchdown drives.
To continue reading:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20111009/SPORTS/110090336/-Bama-QB-McCarron-sends-Tide-s-past-Vanderbilt?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|FRONTPAGE|s

South Alabama Gets First Ever Overtime Win

Double-overtime win just what South Alabama needed

By Tommy Hicks, The Press-Register
SAN ANTONIO -- There was a lot to be learned by South Alabama from a three-game road swing. On Saturday, it seemed some of those lessons paid dividends, at least at the end.
Just when it seemed the missed assignments and missed opportunities that plagued them in losses at North Carolina State and Kent State were destined to cost them again, the Jags delivered. When it seemed the losing streak would stretch to three games, they demonstrated a bit of big-play capability in the clutch and some moxie.
This time, USA won in difficult surroundings -- on the road, before a crowd of 32,886 and in its first overtime game.
For full article:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/double-overtime_win_just_what.html

Seminoles Looking To End Skid Verse Deamon Deacons

FSU looking to rebound against Wake

By Heather Dinich, ESPN.Com
Following its disappointing loss to Clemson on Sept. 24, Florida State used the bye week to get healthy, get better, and, well, talk.

It hasn’t quite been the strong start the Seminoles (2-2, 0-1 ACC) had hoped for, and it certainly hasn’t lived up to the preseason billing of a top-10 team. Florida State’s national title hopes were dashed by Oklahoma on Sept. 17, and one week later the Seminoles’ ACC title hopes took a significant hit from Clemson.

Now, as the Seminoles prepare for their Atlantic Division matchup at Wake Forest, they do so knowing their previous mistakes have made each of their remaining games must-win situations. The Noles need Clemson to lose twice in order to get back into the ACC race, but meanwhile, they can’t afford any more letdowns along the way.
To continue reading:  http://espn.go.com/blog/acc/post?id=30302.

From High School All American QB To The Tiger's Den

Driskel was the Maxwell Football Club National High School Player of the Year last season at Hagerty High School in Oviedo, which is in the Orlando area. He was rated the nation's top QB recruit by Scout.com and Rivals.com. But against Alabama, he completed just 2-of-6 attempts for 14 yards. He ran the ball six times for a net of 18 yards.
Driskel, however, could have his own physical issues.
"He may have a sprained ankle but he's fine," Mushchamp said of the backup.
Players were confident after the game that Driskel could handle the job.
For full article:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20111004/SPORTS/110040326/It-s-Driskel-s-show-UF?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Sports|s

It's Driskel's show at UF

By David Jones Florida Today

Beckham Making Case For SEC Freshman Of The Year

From Les East of The Baton Rouge Advocate

Beckham’s preparation helps him contribute early for Tigers

If LSU wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. seems unusually well prepared to excel in college football as a true freshman, it’s because he is.

First there are the genes. His father, Odell Beckham Sr., played running back for the Tigers from 1989-92, and his mother, Heather Van Norman, was an All-America track runner at LSU from 1991-93 and helped lead the Tigers to five national championships.

On top of that, when Beckham arrived on campus during the summer, he started laying the groundwork for an eye-catching pass-catching freshman season.

To continue reading:  http://theadvocate.com/sports/lsu/1011914-123/immediate-impact.html

Jordan Jefferson Ready To Resume Starting Role

AP article republished on ESPN.Com:

"I was positive I was going to play at LSU again," Jefferson said. "This was a tough experience for me. Sitting there watching the guys play all these tough games was the hardest thing I've done in my life. They did a great job.
"This was a learning experience for me. I can't imagine anybody in the country going through more than I did. But, I'm now wiser and more aware. God puts people in certain situations. I don't regret anything. Everything happened for a reason. I've learned a lot from this."
For full article:  http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/7056929/jordan-jefferson-wants-lsu-tigers-starting-quarterback

South Alabama Preps For Trip To San Antonio

From Tommy Hicks of The Mobile Press-Register:

The Jaguars also had a rare Monday morning practice. They are usually off on Mondays, but the school is observing a fall break, with no classes scheduled Monday or today, so the Jags took advantage of the opening.
"We had a short practice today," coach Joey Jones said. "We've got three more practices this week, so we'll see more then. We went out today and worked on special teams a good bit. It was a good day of practice. We just need to carry that over and have another good practice every day."
For full article:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/post_276.html

GULF COAST BEATS PEARL RIVER BY A YARD

In a contest that provided very few offensive sparks, the longest play of the night for the Pearl River Wildcats fell one yard short of the goal line as time expired, giving the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community Bulldogs a 17-10 victory, and preventing this rivalry for going into overtime for the second year in a row.  With only three seconds left to play, Wildcat quarterback Melvin German (Fort Myers, Fl) completed a 38 yard pass to Jonathan Duncan (Oak Grove) who was ruled down at the one yard line as the clock fell to 0:00, much to the excitement of the Gulf Coast side and frustration from the Pearl River side.

To my great surprise this game was a defensive struggle and completely opposite of what I had predicted.  After attending it last year and remebering the highlights provided by returning wide receivers Seth Roberts (Tallahassee) of Pearl River and Javon Bell (Jacksonville, FL) from Gulf Coast, I had anticipated much of the same.  My assumption was wrong as the secondaries from both teams dominated with support from a strong pass rush.  Cornerback Derrick Bourne and free safety Steve McNair, Jr had interceptions for the Wildcats while free safety Will Burrowes had a pick for the Bulldogs, in additions to the numerous breakups that both defensive backfields made. 

The pass friendly offenses of both teams were also under harassment all night.  Alabama transfer and former Destrehan, LA blue chip prospect defensive end Darrington Sentimore had a sack on German and was in his face all night.  Sentimore definitely displayed alot of potential and it will be interesting to see where he ends up after his time at MGCC.  Leading the pressure on Bulldog quarterback Raymond Cotton, a former Auburn signee and Mobile native, was defensive end Ketrick Wolfe (Sumrall) with constant blitz support from inside linebacker Quan Fletcher of Miami.  Fellow inside linebacker Chris Bermond  (Hancock County) also had his nose around the ball all night for Pearl River and provided strong run support.

In conclusion it was a more balanced offensive attack that was the game's decisive factor.  With yards and first downs being at a premium, the modest rushing attack of Gulf Coast versus the non-existent one for Pearl River kept the pressure slightly more on German than on Cotton, and that is what defined the outcome. Providing this edge was a couple of former Moss Point Tigers.  5-10, 240 pound  freshman Reginald Matthews gave the Bulldogs their first score when he came in from the sideline on the Jumbo Package and bullied into the end zone from the one yare line.  Fellow Tiger alumnus 5'9, 175 pound Byron Nettles never reached the end zone, but he utilized his shiftiness well and picked up key yards keeping the Wildcats defense off balance in numerous carries he received from the slot position.

- Win

PEARL RIVER VS GULF COAST

During the 2010 football season I had the opportunity to watch many games in person.  Out of all the games I was able to witness live, the best one was neither a Saints game, SEC game or even a high school state championship.  It was a junior college game and surprisingly was the first one I had ever attended.  

This incredible sports drama unfolded on a clear, early autumn evening in Poplarville, Mississippi.  The 3-1 hometeam Pearl River Community College Wildcats were playing host to the heavily favored undefeated Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Bulldogs, who at the time were the the number #1 ranked junior college team in the country.  As expected the Bulldogs controlled the first half jumping out to a 27-7 halftime lead.  The second half turned out unlike anyone there watching had expected, as Pearl River ralled from a three touchdown defecit to tie the game and send into overtime, where they kicked the winning field goal to claim the stunning upset victory 30-27. I don't know what Pearl River Coach Tim Hatten said to his players at halftime, but I doubt Knute Rockne could have topped it.  Heck, at least Rockne's Notre Dame teams were the favorites.

Tonight is the rematch.  Only this time the Wildcats will be playing on the Bulldogs turf in Perkinston making back to back wins even more challening.  The teams records are identical at 3-1, and rankings are pretty close to with Gulf Coast being ranked #13 nationally and Pearl River coming in at #15.  One of the highlights from the 2010 contest was the excellent play at wide receiver, and both teams return big play receivers in Javon Bell (Jacksonville, Fl) of the Bulldogs and Seth Roberts (Tallahassee) of the Wildcats, so I don't expect tonight's game to defined by a defensive struggle.  Other key players I am looking forwarding to see are WR Steve McNair, Jr of Pearl River and DL Darrington Sentimore of Gulf Coast, who was a prized recruit out of Destrehan, LA and transferred from Alabama before the season started.

It was a dark drive home on that Thusday night a year ago from Poplarville, but darn worth it.  I needed every drop of caffeine inside the 20 oz cup of coffee that I purchased at the Chevron right before taking the exit ramp to Highway 59 South for my return home.  Should the Wildcats and Bulldogs take their battle into overtime tonight, the drive back from Perkinston would't be as long for me.  Which is good because this is a big football weekend coming up and I'll need my rest.

- Win

Tyrann Mathieu: LSU's Version Of Troy Polamalu?

Strong Safety Troy Polamalu of the Pittsburgh Steelers and cornerback Tyrann Mathieu of LSU may play different positions in the secondary and have very distinctive, contrasting hairstyles; but in my opinion its hard to find two players whose physical, ball-hawking playing styles resembles each other more closely at their respective levels.
Excellent feature below from ESPN SEC blogger Edward Aschoff on Mathieu's standout performance this year for the #1 ranked Tigers.  After showing great promise as a true freshman learning under All American cornerback Patrick Peterson, the undersized Mathieu (5'9, 170 lbs) has been a fearless turnover creating machine his sophomore season.  Surprisingly, Mathieu was only lightly recruited, earning only a 3 star ranking coming out of Saint Augustine High School in New Orleans.

Aggression, elegance fuel Mathieu's game

By Edward Aschoff

Tyrann Mathieu has a graceful recklessness about him.

LSU’s sophomore cornerback plays like a daredevil, yet is extremely nimble when tracking down both players and the pigskin.

The fleet-footed ball hawk has been one of the most exciting players to watch this season because of his insatiable ability to float around the ball. He leads the Tigers in tackles with 30, has three tackles for loss, four pass breakups, one interception, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

His strip and recovery against West Virginia last week moved him into first all-time at LSU with seven forced fumbles -- and he’s only 17 games into his career. Six of those forces and four of his five recoveries have come against top-20 opponents.
For full article:   http://espn.go.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/29105/aggression-elegance-fuel-mathieus-game

Emmitt Smith Impressed By New Vibe At Florida

Emmitt Smith returned to Gainesville Saturday for the Gators SEC opener against Tennessee and was very enthused by the excitement taking place around the Florida football program under new Coach Will Muschamp and around the city itself.

Here is a great article from Bill Vilona of the Pensacola News Journal describing Smith's reaction to the positive vibe surrounding the Florida football program under Muschamp, along with the renaissance of big time college football  taking place throughout the Sunshine State.

Bill Vilona: The good ol' days return to Florida

Emmitt Smith took a look around and couldn't believe the place.
A new vibe in Gainesville.
"It is absolutely awesome," said Smith, the Escambia High graduate and Pro Football Hall of Fame member, speaking to media members who attended Smith's book signing event Saturday, not far from Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, where Smith once shined.
To continue reading:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20110918/SPORTS/109180332/Bill-Vilona-good-ol-days-return-Florida?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|FRONTPAGE|s

Mobile's Mark Barron Named SEC Defensive Player Of The Week In Crimson Tide Victory.

The Gulf Coast continues to rack up SEC Player of the Week honors.  In week one, Mississippi State RB Vick Ballard of Pascagoula was named the Offensive Player of the Week and LSU Cornerback Tyrann Mathieu of New Orleans was the Defensive Player of the Week.

In Week Two, Alabama's Mark Barron of Mobile has been named the Defensive Player of the Week.  Barron, a St. Paul's Alum, had a monster game in the Crimson Tide's 27-11 victory over Penn State. 
The 6-2, 218 pound Free Safety had an interception, fumble recovery and lead the team with seven tackles.

Here is a full summary of Barron's performance from Al.com:   http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/09/tide_safety_mark_barron_named_1.html

Gulf Coast Natives Claim SEC Player Of The Week Honors

The Gulf Coast region represented strong in the opening weekend of College Football.  Both the SEC Offensive and Defensive players of the week are Gulf Coast natives.  Mississippi State Running Back Vick Ballard of Pascagoula was named the Offensive Player of the Week rushing for 166 yards on 10 carries and 3 touchdowns.  The Pascagoula High School and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College product has been an absolute steal for the Bulldogs, picking up from his 19 touchdown performance in 2010 after only being lightly recruited out of both high school and community college.

New Orleans native Tyrann Mathieu of LSU was named the Defensive Player of the Week in the Tigers
40-27 victory over the Oregon Ducks in Dallas.  The 5-9, 175 pound Sophomore Cornerback had a monster game recording 10 tackles, 2 pass break-ups, causing a fumble then returning it for a touchdown.  Coming out of St. Augustine High School, Mathieu was more heavily recruited than Ballard.  Rivals.com ranked him as the 13th best cornerback in the nation and the ninth best player in the State of Louisiana.  However, after also showing great promise as a true Freshman in 2009,  I think it would be sufficient to say that, like Ballard, Mathieu has also surpassed  his recruiting projections.

Look for our SEC Offensive and Defensive players of the week to become more familiar with each other very soon.  In only 9 days, LSU comes to Starkville to take on the Bulldogs in a big Thursday night SEC matchup, and with the physical style of play that both Ballard and Mathieu possess, I'm sure a few
one-on-one full contact introductions will take place.

- Win

Dutchtown's Eddie Lacy Receives High Praise From Nick Saban

Dutchtown High School in Geismar, Louisiana has become a hotbed for producing Division I College Football prospects, including the state's top prospect this season in defensive back Landon Collins.  One of those blue chips who LSU let escape out of their own backyard is Sophomore Running Back Eddie Lacy who will be up Heisman candidate Trent Richardson at Alabama this season.  Lacy recently earned high praise from Nick Saban for an excellent camp and improvement in holding onto the ball:

Saban was asked about second-team running back Eddie Lacy, who lost two fumbles early last season. How has the redshirt sophomore been doing in regards to ball security in preseason practices.
"Well, he's doing fine," Saban said. "He hasn't had any issues or problems. He's had a really good fall camp, and I think his energy and enthusiasm goes up with his confidence and his knowledge of the offense, and I think he feels a lot more comfortable and confident now, and he's had a really good fall camp.
For full article and Saban's definition of mental toughness:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/08/tide_notes_what_is_nick_sabans.htm

Hummingbirds In Duck Feathers

Oregon's mascot may be the Ducks, but with their no huddle offense their pace is more similar to that of a hummingbird.  The LSU Defense has been doing drills since last Spring, to get them more accostomed to the Ducks' fast pace tempo.  The following article by Les East of the Baton Rouge Advocate describes the advanced preparation that the Tigers' defense has been through to get them ready for Darron Thomas, LaMichael James & Co.  

Oregon’s fast pace focus for LSU since spring

By Les East, The Advocate

The first game week of LSU’s season begins Monday, but the Tigers are already well into preparations for their opening opponent.

Oregon’s hurry-up offense is an even bigger attention-getter than their colorful uniforms.

The Ducks try to minimize the amount of time between snaps, and their pace can tire opposing defenders over the course of a series of downs and take a cumulative toll as a game wears on. It also leaves opponents with little time to make calls and change personnel groups.

To continue reading:  http://theadvocate.com/sports/lsu/700477-64/always-on-their-mind.html

Mobile Native Son Vince Dooley: Legendary Former Georgia Football Coach Turns Botany Enthusiast

Former Georgia Head Coach Vince Dooley and father of Tennessee Coach Derek Dooley has serioulsy remade himself following his long coaching carrer.  He has become a serious Botany enthusiast and even publishing his own book last year on the subject.  He recently visited his hometown of Mobile to check out the plant species on family property along the Mobile Delta.  Here is an article from today's Mobile Press-Register on the visit.

Pigskin Latin: Vince Dooley, Mobile-Tensaw Delta son, comes home speaking in tongues

By Ben Raines, Press-Register Press-Register
MOBILE, Alabama -- The legendary college football coach called them out from memory.
One after another, complicated names spoken in a secret code only a few understand. 

Vince Dooley gazes at the peninsula that divides Polecat Bay and the Spanish River in the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta. As a boy, Dooley visited his mother's family in a home on the peninsula, where they raised cows, farmed vegetables and occasionally sold an alligator skin. (Press-Register/Ben Raines)

But the words slipping across Mobile native Vince Dooley’s lips weren’t football plays. They were the Latin names of plants.
Gliding through a narrow creek deep in the heart of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, the man who coached Herschel Walker and the Georgia Bulldogs to the national championship in 1980 was revealed to be a serious botanist.
To continue reading:  http://blog.al.com/live/2011/08/pigskin_latin_vince_dooley_mob.html

Jordan Jefferson and Joshua Johns Post Bond, Suspended Indefinitely From LSU Football Team

LSU senior quarterback Jordan Jefferson, 21, and sophomore linebacker Joshua Johns, 21, have been booked and released from Parish Prison after Baton Rouge police arrested them on second-degree battery counts.

Both players posted a $5,000 bond.

Jefferson and Johns have been suspended indefinitely from the football team, coach Les Miles said Friday.

To continue reading:  http://theadvocate.com/home/686220-82/lsus-jefferson-johns-post-bond.html

Pascagoula's Vick Ballard and Baton Rouge's Brandon Bolden Give Mississippi State and Ole Miss Strong Gulf Coast Based Rushing Attacks

While Mississippi State and Ole Miss each have question marks heading into this season, the running game is not one of them as they each return a quality, proven veteran in their backfield.  The Clarion Ledger came out with features today on MSU Running Back Vick Ballard of Pascagoula and Ole Miss's Brandon Bolden of Baton Rouge. 

   
STARKVILLE — The numbers were not fabricated, but Vick Ballard was still ready to defend his honor.
"I was a 1,000-yard back last year," Mississippi State's senior running back said. "I just fell a little short and I'll prove it this year."
While many questioned whether this then-junior newcomer from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College could fill the shoes of Anthony Dixon, State's career-leading rusher, Ballard went about his business.
To continue reading:  http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20110826/SPORTS030102/108260328/Ballard-says-he-won-t-fall-short-mark-again?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Home|p

When the Sept. 3 opener against BYU is here, Bolden, a senior running back, will be the focal point of the Rebels' offense. That's not news, especially after a junior season in which Bolden ran for 976 yards and 14 touchdowns.
He also caught 32 passes for three more scores, and even threw a pass. Oddly, that made him the team's leading returning rusher, receiver and passer (all three quarterbacks have never taken a snap for Ole Miss).
Bolden, who has tried his best to lead this Rebels team, is willing to do more.
"I'd go play D-line if they wanted me to," Bolden said. "Whatever helps."
For full article:  http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20110826/SPORTS030103/108260322/Held-back-Bolden-chomping-bit?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Home|s

LSU Working On "Plan B"

LSU preparing a ‘Plan B’ for Oregon

By Scott Rabalais, The Advocate

LSU’s football preparations for Oregon are like a game of shadows.

There is the plan the Tigers want to polish for their Sept. 3 opener, the game plan that includes players brought in for questioning Tuesday by Baton Rouge Police.

But if Plan A includes players like quarterback Jordan Jefferson, freshman receiver Jarvis Landry, linebacker Josh Johns and offensive tackle Chris Davenport, there is evidently a Plan B, too.

For full article:  http://theadvocate.com/sports/666390-64/lsu-preparing-a-plan-b.html

Lake Charles DB Janzen Jackson Dismissed From Tennessee Football Team

Tennessee dismisses Janzen Jackson

By Chris Low, ESPN.Com

"Our program has devoted a tremendous amount of energy, resources, support and care in an effort to help Janzen manage his personal challenges," the coach said in a statement. "I will always be there to help him as a person, but there comes a time when a player's actions preclude him from the privilege of playing for the University of Tennessee football team.
"Although I'm disappointed with this outcome, we will never compromise the long-term organizational values and goals we maintain here at Tennessee."
Full article:   http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6891304/tennessee-volunteers-dismiss-janzen-jackson

South Alabama Football Is On The Fast Track

By Tommy Hicks, Mobile Press-Register
MOBILE, Alabama -- South Alabama's football program -- not just the team, but the program -- is ahead of schedule.
That statement has nothing to do with a 17-0 record over the first two seasons. The schedule was built for success, especially the first season, just as it included tests along the way in the second season. It's cool for USA fans to note their team has never lost a game, but it will mean a lot more if they can say that at the end of this season.
To continue reading:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/08/south_alabama_football_program.html

EJ Manuel Well Prepared For Starting QB Role At FSU

EJ Manuel key to FSU championship hopes

By Andy Gardiner, USA Today
In a season in which experienced quarterbacks are at a premium in the Atlantic Coast Conference, EJ Manuel stands as something of a hybrid.
The Florida State junior made only six career starts in his first two seasons. But Manuel has played in 17 games and created enough of an impression to be voted ACC preseason first-team quarterback by the media while finishing second in offensive player of the year voting.
"His body language, his demeanor, his command of the team and the respect his teammates have for him," FSU coach Jimbo Fisher said of the change he's seen in Manuel. "He understands the role he is in, and I think he is embracing it. I think our team sees him doing a great job."
For full article:  http://www.pnj.com/article/20110821/SPORTS/108210332/EJ-Manuel-key-FSU-championship-hopes?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|FRONTPAGE|s

Dylan Favre Still In Battle For MSU Backup QB Spot

STARKVILLE-- Sophomore Tyler Russell and redshirt freshman Dylan Favre, a former St. Stanislaus standout, are battling for Mississippi State’s backup quarterback spot. Gator Bowl MVP Chris Relf is the undisputed starter.
“I haven’t seen much (separation) in either one,” Bulldogs offensive coordinator Les Koenning said.
Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2011/08/17/3355044/college-football-battle-of-reb.html#ixzz1VNiTwFgR

Fully Recovered From Torn Pec, Mark Barron Ready To Go For Senior Season

TUSCALOOSA. Alabama -- Mark Barron's feet launch the Alabama star safety off the grass practice field toward the twilight sky.

His arms fire up as he fully extends his body. His muscles stretch like elastic bands as he reaches toward a football sailing overhead. There's no hesitation to extend as high as gravity will allow; no reaction once he lands, other than the disappointment of missing the ball on this particular drill.

For full article:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/08/mark_barron_ready_to_cap_off_s.html

Pensacola's Trent Richardson Makes SI Cover For College Football's Breakout Players

Trent Richardson makes Sports Illustrated's cover

By Kevin Scarbinsky, Birmingham News al.com
Wow. Sports Illustrated has turned into Alabama's very own fanzine. This week's SI cover features sophomore running back Trent Richardson rolling through the San Jose State defense in the 48-3 season-opening win.
The cover headline: "College Football Opening Statements. Breakout Players and Programs in Week 1."
For full article:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2010/09/trent_richardson_makes_sports.html

Niceville Fla's Roy Finch Expecting Breakout Season For Sooners

Once 'lost,' Finch looking for more at OU

By TRAVIS DOWNEY

Daily News

Read more: http://www.nwfdailynews.com/articles/finch-42666-looking-better.html#ixzz1VDjnP8AA

Roy Finch has a lot to smile about these days.
Now a sophomore running back at the University of Oklahoma, Finch has bounced around the Sooners’ practice fields these last two weeks flashing that wide smile and easy-going nature that made him a hit with teammates even as a freshman.
“Roy loves everybody,” OU running backs coach Cale Gundy said. “That’s Roy. Roy enjoys people, he’s very social.”
Read more: http://www.nwfdailynews.com/articles/finch-42666-looking-better.html#ixzz1VDhEVIRP

Darrington Sentimore Transfers From Alabama To Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Things didn't quite work out for Darrington Sentimore at Alabama.  The former prized recruit was once a teammate of Jordan Jefferson in Destrehan, Louisiana where they won a state championship together.  His transfer to Mississippi Gulf Coast Comm College is very interesting.   The school is a JUCO powerhouse and has produced numerous Division I standouts.  It will be interesting to see how Sentimore develops in Perkinston.

From Al. Com:

Darrington Sentimore to transfer from Alabama to JUCO

By Izzy Gould/Tuscaloosa Bureau 

USCALOOSA, Alabama - Darrington Sentimore will transfer to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, defensive coordinator Steve Davis confirmed in email Thursday morning.

"He should be here Tuesday," Davis wrote.

Sentimore's departure is the seventh from Alabama since the end of the 2010 season. The 6-foot-3, 273-pound redshirt sophomore was competing for playing time on the defensive line. He played in 11 games last season and finished with 9 tackles before he was indefinitely suspended for undisclosed reasons.

For full article go to:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/08/darrington_sentimore_to_transf.html

LSU Offensive Coordinator Steve Kragthorpe Diagnosed With Parkinson's Disease

Here is an article from The Baton Rouge Advocate regarding the coaching adjustments LSU will make in response to Offensive Coordinator Steve Kragthorpe's Parkinson's Diagnosis.

LSU: First-year coach has Parkinson’s disease

Les East

Advocate sportswriter

1 Comments

The excitement of LSU’s first day of fall practice was tempered Thursday by news that first-year offensive coordinator Steve Kragthorpe has Parkinson’s disease and will relinquish some of his duties.

Kragthorpe, a former head coach at Tulsa and Louisville and a noted developer of quarterbacks, will continue as quarterbacks coach, have input into game plans, and coach from the press box on game days. But the offensive coordinator’s duties, most notably play-calling, will be assumed by fifth-year offensive line coach Greg Studrawa, who was the offensive coordinator at Bowling Green for four seasons before joining the Tigers staff.

For full article:  http://theadvocate.com/home/515272-79/kragthorpe-taking-smaller-role-for.html

South Alabama Freshmen Report Prepared And Confident

From the Mobile Press Register:

South Alabama football freshmen ready for immediate action on field

By Tommy Hicks

MOBILE, Alabama -- There doesn't appear to be many cases of freshmen jitters as the incoming group of signees arrived for physicals examinations and other pre-practice requirements Monday at South Alabama's football facility.
Veteran players will go through a similar routine today and the Jaguars' will begin work on their third season Wednesday at 8 a.m. at the team's practice field.
To continue reading:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/08/south_alabama_football_freshme.html

Mark Barron At SEC Media Days

Here is the link to the on camera interview that ESPN's Chris Low had with Alabama All American Safety Mark Barron at SEC Media Days.  Barron is from Mobile and an Alumnus of St. Paul High School.  Barron's teammate at St. Paul's was A.J. McCarron who is competing for the starting QB job at Alabama.  I thought it was interesting that Low didn't mention the connection when he asked Barron about the QB situation.

http://espn.go.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/25330/video-alabamas-mark-barron

Once Again Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Has Reloaded

Remember the names of the players mentioned in this feature on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Bulldogs from the Sun Herald.  Chances are they will be among the premier Division I players in the nation in the next couple of years.

Bulldogs to report in two weeks with high hopes

By DOUG BARBER - dmbarber@sunherald.com

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Bulldogs report for practice in two weeks with the usual high expectations.
Gulf Coast won the Mississippi Bowl back in December along with the MACJC state championship. The Bulldogs went 10-2 in 2010. One preseason magazine -- The Sporting News College Football -- projects the team as high as No. 2 in the nation among community colleges.
“That’s a testament to the guys who have been here before,’’ MGCCC coach Steve Campbell said on Monday. “We try to have high expectations every year. But each year is different. It’s junior college football and you have to replace so many guys.’’

Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2011/07/25/3299206/bulldogs-to-report-in-two-weeks.html#ixzz1TD3wqFvk

Pascagoula's Vick Ballard Representing Bulldogs At SEC Media Days

Here is a link to the soft spoken, yet touchdown scoring machine Vick Ballard of Mississippi State with ESPN's Chris Low at SEC Media Days.
http://espn.go.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/24967/video-mississippi-state-rb-vick-ballard

Lockett's Return Big Morale Booster For Rebels

Here is another feature on Kentrell Lockett from SEC Media Days:

Rebs welcome Lockett's voice

Written by

Ross Dellenger

HOOVER, ALA. — Brandon Bolden can once again hear the laughs echoing through the hallways of the Ole Miss football facility.
"We know who that is," the Rebels running back says. "That's 40."
It's Kentrell Lockett, the joke-telling, morale-boosting, charisma-oozing Ole Miss defensive end who wears No. 40 on game days.
Lockett, granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA after a season-ending injury early last season, has returned to his old form - vintage Lockett, some would say.

To continue reading go to:  http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20110723/SPORTS030103/107230326/Rebs-welcome-Lockett-s-voice?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Home

Hahnville's Kentrell Lockett Preseason All-SEC Pick For Rebels

Hahnville High School in Boutte, Louisiana is one of the strongest programs in the state.  Its alumni include former LSU All American and current Washington Redskins Safety LaRon Landry.  Another former Hahnville Tiger is also bracing for a big season.  Ole Miss Defensive End Kentrell Lockett has been granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA, and is a preseason All SEC selection after missing the majority of the 2010 season due to injury.  Lockett was one of the player representatives for Ole Miss during SEC Media Days and the following is an excerpt from ESPN.com about his return from injury and the high expectations on him for the upcoming season.

Kentrell Lockett: A Rebel with a cause

By Edward Aschoff

HOOVER, Ala. -- Superman lives.

Ole Miss senior defensive end Kentrell Lockett, or "Superman" to his fans, is back and ready to exact his revenge on skittish quarterbacks around the SEC.

[+] Enlarge

Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesKentrell Lockett suffered a knee injury last season, but coach Houston Nutt expects "him to be full go the first game."

Lockett, who was granted a sixth year of eligibility after suffering an ACL injury early last season, says he's fully healthy and ready for his last romp through the SEC.

Lockett skipped spring practice to recover more, but insists that he hasn't lost any quickness or mobility.

To continue reading go to: 
http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation

Dan Mullen Imitates Steve Spurrier

Although it is very brief, the highlight of this video clip of Dan Mullen at SEC Media Days on sportsillustrated.com is his impersonation of Steve Spurrier.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/video/ncaaf_video/2011/07/21/072111.allaccess_mullen.SportsIllustrated/index.html?sct=cf_t2_a11

Auburn Won't Have A Drop Off According To Mobile Oddsmaker Danny Sheridan

National Oddsmaker Danny Sheridan of Mobile says that most predictions about Auburn experiencing a letdown this season are wrong.

Agree or disagree with Danny Sheridan's predictions, it's hard to bet against him (Kennedy)

By Randy Kennedy
Mobile Press Register

Nobody knows betting odds better than Danny Sheridan. So the Mobile native and oddsmaker for USA Today is probably right when he says it's better than even money that his predictions for the 2011 college football season will cause some fans to question his sanity and others to encourage him to find another line of work.
"Everybody is assuming that Auburn isn't going to be any good and they're trying to give them a free pass this season," Sheridan said on the eve of SEC Media Days. "But if Auburn doesn't win this year, then the coaching staff didn't do their job the last three years getting their young and talented players some experience. They have recruited great and have a lot of talent. Gene Chizik should take a voluntary pay cut if Auburn doesn't win at least nine games this season."

For full article go to:  http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/07/agree_or_disagree_with_danny_s.html

Will Trent Richardson Be Pensacola's Next World Class Athlete?

Pensacola has definitely produced its share of world-class athletetes:  NFL all time leading rusher Emmit Smith, nine time All Pro Linebacker Derrick Brooks and boxing great Roy Jones, Jr.  It is yet to be determined whether Alabama RB Trent Richardson will reach their level of achievement, but the expectations are very high for the former All American from Escambia High School, who has been very impressive in his first two seasons while sharing the backfield with Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram.  With Ingram's departure and Richardson's display of potential, his new role as the Crimson Tide's featured running back has thrusted him into the national spotlight as one of the anticipated premier players this fall, even though he has yet to run for 1000 yards in a season.    

Richardson's hometwon newspaper, the Pensacola News Journal, published an article this past week on the many preseason accolades that he has received.

Let the Trent Richardson hype begin

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Trent Richardson hype for the 2011 college football season is in full swing now.
A graduate of Escambia High School, Richardson's preseason honors now include his selection to the coaches' All-Southeastern Conference first team on Thursday.
Preparing for his first season as the featured back at Alabama, Richardson, a 5-foot-11, 224-pound junior, has already been named to the watch list for the Maxwell Award, which has been presented to the country's outstanding college football player since 1937.

To continue reading go to:   http://www.pnj.com/article/20110715/SPORTS/107150325/Let-Trent-Richardson-hype-begin?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Sports|s

Pascagoula's Vick Ballard To Represent Bulldogs At SEC Media Days

Coming out of Pascagoula High School, the only scholarship offer Mississippi State RB Vick Ballard received was from Jackson State.  He greatly surpassed his light recruiting status becoming a JUCO All American at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and then leading the SEC with 19 touchdowns in his initial season with the Bulldogs.  Ballard will be representing Mississippi State in SEC Media Days July 20-22 in Birmingham.  Other Gulf Coast players mentioned in the following article from http://www.gulflive.com/ leading their respective teams at SEC Media Days are:  Kentrell Lockett (Ole Miss, Boutte, LA), Trent Richardson (Alabama, Penscacola), Mark Barron (Alabama, Mobile), Jordan Jefferson (LSU, Destrehan, LA).

View full sizeMississippi State running back Vick Ballard evades Ole Miss safety Fon Ingram while scoring a second-half touchdown during the Bulldogs' 31-23 win in the 2010 Egg Bowl. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)

Pascagoula's Vick Ballard to meet the press for Mississippi State

By Evan Woodbery/Auburn Bureau, The Birmingham News, Press-Register, and The Huntsville Times The Mississippi Press
Pascagoula native Vick Ballard, who burst onto the SEC scene with a big debut season in 2010, will represent Mississippi State later this month at the league’s media days.
The SEC released the list of 36 players who will join their coaches at the conference kickoff July 20-22 in Hoover, Ala.
For full article go to:  http://www.gulflive.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/07/pascagoulas_vick_ballard_to_me.html