Playoffs 2021.....

[Bill from NYC]

Does anyone wish to share views/predictions?

 

I'll start:

 

Imo these playoffs are wide open. I want to say up front that Alabama is nowhere near as good as they were last season. The thing is, please tell me who else is. I think that Bama can beat Cincy if they out muscle them. Another factor is that the more time Nick Saban has to prepare for a game, the better his chances are at winning. this is proven.

 

In terms of Michigan/Georgia, to be honest I am rooting for Michigan. I don't know enough about the Big 10 to make an assertion about how good Michigan is. I happen to believe that Georgia is very good. So, if Alabama does defeat Cincy, I would rather see them face Michigan than Georgia. Am I looking at this the wrong way?

I would appreciate any input from Big 10 fans, as well as UGA and Cincy fans. 

[ArdmoreRyno]

This might be the only Playoffs I'll give a rip about in a while because we have new blood in the water. 

 

I hope Cincy beats the piss out of Alabama. There are two Bama teams... the one that played against A&M, Auburn, LSU, Arkansas and one that played against Ole Miss & UGA. For MOST college football fans, Bama is like New England. We're sick of them. Completely sick. It's why I pray for a bigger playoff someday. 

 

I'd love to see this:

 

1. Alabama - BYE (v 8/9 winner)

2. Michigan - BYE (v 7/10 winner)

3. UGA - BYE (v 6/11 winner)

4. Cincy - BYE (v 5/12 winner)

5. ND vs 12. Pittsburgh

6. Ohio State vs 11. Utah

7. Baylor vs 10. Michigan State

8. Ole Miss vs 9. Oklahoma State 

 

 

[Bill from NYC]

7 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

This might be the only Playoffs I'll give a rip about in a while because we have new blood in the water. 

 

I hope Cincy beats the piss out of Alabama. There are two Bama teams... the one that played against A&M, Auburn, LSU, Arkansas and one that played against Ole Miss & UGA. For MOST college football fans, Bama is like New England. We're sick of them. Completely sick. It's why I pray for a bigger playoff someday. 

 

I'd love to see this:

 

1. Alabama - BYE (v 8/9 winner)

2. Michigan - BYE (v 7/10 winner)

3. UGA - BYE (v 6/11 winner)

4. Cincy - BYE (v 5/12 winner)

5. ND vs 12. Pittsburgh

6. Ohio State vs 11. Utah

7. Baylor vs 10. Michigan State

8. Ole Miss vs 9. Oklahoma State 

 

 

Once again, I don't believe in expanded playoffs, although I do think that it will happen at some point in order to throw a bone to fans of lesser teams. I'm sure that you know what I mean.

[ArdmoreRyno]

17 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

Once again, I don't believe in expanded playoffs, although I do think that it will happen at some point in order to throw a bone to fans of lesser teams. I'm sure that you know what I mean.

 

You might be in the 0.01% that doesn't want the expansion. Why not? 

 

College football is my first love, always will be... but there is NO sporting 'event' better than the NCAA Tournament. 64+4 teams getting to battle it out and ANYONE can win. Fans LOVE to watch it, it's exciting. If you've never attended a NCAA Tournament, it's an amazing atmosphere. Seeing a team like Florida Gulf Coast (15 seed) beat a 2 seeded Georgetown then make it to the Sweet 16 is so much fun. 

 

We'd have answers at that point. We'd see if a Baylor or Oklahoma State could compete with Bama, Georgia or Michigan. We would then FINALLY have a TRUE NCAA champion. Something we have never had in D1/FCS football. I feel the only ones against it are the fans of teams who always make it in... Bama and Clemson for example. 

[Talley56]

I know we are well past the playoff decision time but I would have been very interested to see who would have made the playoffs if, all else being the same, Baylor had beaten TCU last month.  One loss Big 12 champion who also beat a pretty good non-conference team (BYU).  How do you keep them out?  I'm thinking it would have come down to them, Cincy, or Georgia being out and all three would have had a legitimate claim to getting screwed if they hadn't made it in this scenario.

[Bill from NYC]

On 12/17/2021 at 10:14 AM, ArdmoreRyno said:

 

You might be in the 0.01% that doesn't want the expansion. Why not? 

 

College football is my first love, always will be... but there is NO sporting 'event' better than the NCAA Tournament. 64+4 teams getting to battle it out and ANYONE can win. Fans LOVE to watch it, it's exciting. If you've never attended a NCAA Tournament, it's an amazing atmosphere. Seeing a team like Florida Gulf Coast (15 seed) beat a 2 seeded Georgetown then make it to the Sweet 16 is so much fun. 

 

We'd have answers at that point. We'd see if a Baylor or Oklahoma State could compete with Bama, Georgia or Michigan. We would then FINALLY have a TRUE NCAA champion. Something we have never had in D1/FCS football. I feel the only ones against it are the fans of teams who always make it in... Bama and Clemson for example. 

Why not? Because college students should not be required to play 20 game seasons in order to satisfy the whims of fans of sub-par teams.

 

The bolded is just so laughable that a comment would be a waste of time.

 

 

Edited December 20, 2021 by Bill from NYC

[ArdmoreRyno]

17 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

Why not? Because college students should not be required to play 20 game seasons in order to satisfy the whims of fans of sub-par teams.

 

The bolded is just so laughable that a comment would be a waste of time.

 

 

 

But they already do... and we both know, it's not 20 games. What you said... it really doesn't make a reason to not play a expanded playoff. You are being a tad bit dramatic. 

 

NCAA D2 (FCS) and NCAA D3 all play a solid post-season playoff. D3 has 32 teams make it, D2 has 24. 

 

Both D2 and D3 play a total of 15 games (max). If Alabama beats Cincy and makes it to the title game, they'll also play 15. That kills your argument in it's tracks. It's not difficult to do brother... you get rid of non-conference games that don't matter. SEC no longer plays "sub-par teams" at the end of the season (like the mighty Aggies of NM State or South Alabama). Big XII no longer plays teams like Tulsa or Western Carolina. It starts with your conference game, week 1. 

 

I'll post what it would look like this year, again: 

 

1. Alabama - BYE (v 8/9 winner)

2. Michigan - BYE (v 7/10 winner)

3. UGA - BYE (v 6/11 winner)

4. Cincy - BYE (v 5/12 winner)

5. ND vs 12. Pittsburgh

6. Ohio State vs 11. Utah

7. Baylor vs 10. Michigan State

8. Ole Miss vs 9. Oklahoma State 

 

So the "sub-par" teams your Tide would have to face (me picking winners here)? 

 

GAME 1: Alabama #9 Oklahoma State

GAME 2: Alabama vs #5 Notre Dame

GAME 3: Alabama vs #2 Michigan

 

Such sub-part opponents the 'Bama would face. LOL

 

And your last comment "The bolded is just so laughable that a comment would be a waste of time." Really? Didn't Alabama lose to A&M? A team BARELY ranked? 

 

Didn't they squeak by a crappy unranked Auburn team?  A very average barely ranked Arkansas team? A bad unranked LSU team? ALL in the past 4-5 weeks of the season? Dude, the arrogance of Alabama fans. My Gawd. (You just want the little Blue Blood club and leave everyone else out, be honest) 

 

Edited December 20, 2021 by ArdmoreRyno

[Willyville Guy]

No great insights here...

 

It's Alabama's playoff to win.  They have the talent, the coaching, and the program-level comfort under the bright lights to have an edge in just about every facet of every game.  Great to see Jameson Williams thrive. 

 

I do not want That Team Up North to win.  

 

I'd be happy for Georgia if they can finally beat Alabama and win a natty. Seems like they've been right on the brink forever but keep tripping up along the way. That's a good program and just has to break through eventually.

 

Cincinnati is the Cinderella story and obviously the most intriguing if they can get some momentum going in the playoffs. Coach Fickell has been through a lot and earned this opportunity.  

 

Looking forward to some fun games!

[Bill from NYC]

8 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

 

But they already do... and we both know, it's not 20 games. What you said... it really doesn't make a reason to not play a expanded playoff. You are being a tad bit dramatic. 

 

NCAA D2 (FCS) and NCAA D3 all play a solid post-season playoff. D3 has 32 teams make it, D2 has 24. 

 

Both D2 and D3 play a total of 15 games (max). If Alabama beats Cincy and makes it to the title game, they'll also play 15. That kills your argument in it's tracks. It's not difficult to do brother... you get rid of non-conference games that don't matter. SEC no longer plays "sub-par teams" at the end of the season (like the mighty Aggies of NM State or South Alabama). Big XII no longer plays teams like Tulsa or Western Carolina. It starts with your conference game, week 1. 

 

I'll post what it would look like this year, again: 

 

1. Alabama - BYE (v 8/9 winner)

2. Michigan - BYE (v 7/10 winner)

3. UGA - BYE (v 6/11 winner)

4. Cincy - BYE (v 5/12 winner)

5. ND vs 12. Pittsburgh

6. Ohio State vs 11. Utah

7. Baylor vs 10. Michigan State

8. Ole Miss vs 9. Oklahoma State 

 

So the "sub-par" teams your Tide would have to face (me picking winners here)? 

 

GAME 1: Alabama #9 Oklahoma State

GAME 2: Alabama vs #5 Notre Dame

GAME 3: Alabama vs #2 Michigan

 

Such sub-part opponents the 'Bama would face. LOL

 

And your last comment "The bolded is just so laughable that a comment would be a waste of time." Really? Didn't Alabama lose to A&M? A team BARELY ranked? 

 

Didn't they squeak by a crappy unranked Auburn team?  A very average barely ranked Arkansas team? A bad unranked LSU team? ALL in the past 4-5 weeks of the season? Dude, the arrogance of Alabama fans. My Gawd. (You just want the little Blue Blood club and leave everyone else out, be honest) 

 

Ok, let me answer 1 at a time if you will.....

 

1) It is not Nick Saban's fault that they play a few weak non-conference teams every season. Teams do not want to play Alabama. The weak teams are paid to do so. Once again, kudos to OSU for having the courage to face Alabama.

 

2) Last season, Alabama played an all SEC schedule. They destroyed every team except Florida, who they beat by "only" 6 points. Their non-conference games were against Notre Dame and Ohio State, both of whom they destroyed. If you don't think that they were/are legit champions, then you are too clouded by hatred and jealousy to face the obvious. They were the absolute best team in 2020 and up there with, if not the best ever. 

 

3) This Alabama team is coming around, but they are just not as good as the 2020 team, and I never said that they are. Now that this is out of the way, I want to add that I almost never bet games, despite the fact that I am usually correct about Alabama (and the Bills btw). When I do wager I don't post it here, because I'm afraid someone might listen to me, lose money, and get angry. That said, I bet on Alabama against Georgia plus 6 1/2. I also bet them with no points getting 2x1 odds and made a small chunk of money. I did so because you should NEVER give points to Nick Saban, let alone lay odds against him. Never. Now, I will NOT be betting on the Tide against Cincy. Bama is very good but this is not 2020, where laying 14 against Cincy would have been a laughing matter. it still MIGHT be but I'm not as sure.

 

 Now, pleae tell me, do you think that OSU, or any other team in the Big 12 would stand a reasonable chance against Alabama or Georgia?  I mean really. Btw, when Texas A&M left the Big 12 they were able to recruit better players. Players who wanted to face good competetion. Texas will improve in a hurry. Oklahoma probably will not, thus the rapid departure of Lincoln Riley. He went out west to face the same type of weak competetion that he faced at Oklahoma, and he will because at USC, he will out recruit the west coast teams. 

 

In any event, I wouldn't be so upset with an 8 team playoff, providing it did NOT mean extra games for already overworked kids who are risking millions of dollars on every play, let alone every game. 

 

PS: Would players opt out of expanded playoffs? I don't know, you tell me.

 

Peace and Happy Holidays!

 

Edited December 20, 2021 by Bill from NYC

[Cynical]

4 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

NCAA D2 (FCS) and NCAA D3 all play a solid post-season playoff. D3 has 32 teams make it, D2 has 24. 

 

You seem to be confused with how college football is broken down.

CFB is broken down into 4 divisions, not 3.

D3

D2

Football Championship Series (f/k/a D1-AA)

Football Bowl Series (f/k/a D1-A)

 

4 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

 

Both D2 and D3 play a total of 15 games (max). If Alabama beats Cincy and makes it to the title game, they'll also play 15. That kills your argument in it's tracks.

 

Actually, it does not. He did say 20, not 15.

 

4 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

 

It's not difficult to do brother... you get rid of non-conference games that don't matter. SEC no longer plays "sub-par teams" at the end of the season (like the mighty Aggies of NM State or South Alabama). Big XII no longer plays teams like Tulsa or Western Carolina. It starts with your conference game, week 1. 

 

So, your solution is to make the entire FBS division play less regular season games?

Questions:

Who is in charge of determining which teams are "sub-par"?

Is that based on a season by season basis? Or is it a "one and done" situation?

Once a "sub-par" team, always a "sub-par" team.

I wonder how the "sub-par" teams will feel after they been labeled as such, and the huge loss income from not playing those games anymore.

 

Good luck with that.

 

4 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

 

I'll post what it would look like this year, again: 

 

1. Alabama - BYE (v 8/9 winner)

2. Michigan - BYE (v 7/10 winner)

3. UGA - BYE (v 6/11 winner)

4. Cincy - BYE (v 5/12 winner)

5. ND vs 12. Pittsburgh

6. Ohio State vs 11. Utah

7. Baylor vs 10. Michigan State

8. Ole Miss vs 9. Oklahoma State 

 

So the "sub-par" teams your Tide would have to face (me picking winners here)? 

 

GAME 1: Alabama #9 Oklahoma State

GAME 2: Alabama vs #5 Notre Dame

GAME 3: Alabama vs #2 Michigan

 

Such sub-part opponents the 'Bama would face. LOL

 

And your last comment "The bolded is just so laughable that a comment would be a waste of time." Really?

 

Yes, laughable.

As you said: We'd have answers at that point. We'd see if a Baylor or Oklahoma State could compete with Bama, Georgia or Michigan. We would then FINALLY have a TRUE NCAA champion. Something we have never had in D1/FCS football. (I am going to assume you meant D1/FBS)'

 

A true NCAA championship? Nope.

Do not see any representative from the PAC-12, Sunbelt, Mountain West, C-USA, etc.. in your scenario.

Not to mention the NCAA has nothing to do with the FBS playoffs.

A "true" National Champion is a unicorn, an unachievable desire.

 

The only "answers" we would have are the ones you would be willing to accept.

As far I am concerned, we already had the answer.

It was called the BCS: 1 vs 2.

Everything else was moot.

 

4 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

Didn't Alabama lose to A&M? A team BARELY ranked? 

 

Didn't they squeak by a crappy unranked Auburn team?  A very average barely ranked Arkansas team? A bad unranked LSU team? ALL in the past 4-5 weeks of the season? Dude, the arrogance of Alabama fans. My Gawd. (You just want the little Blue Blood club and leave everyone else out, be honest) 

 

 

I have long advocated for the Power conferences to tell the NCAA to go pound sand, leave, and create their own Association.

 

[ArdmoreRyno]

13 minutes ago, Bill from NYC said:

Ok, let me answer 1 at a time if you will.....

 

1) It is not Nick Saban's fault that they play a few weak non-conference teams every season. Teams do not want to play Alabama. The weak teams are paid to do so. Once again, kudos to OSU for having the courage to face Alabama.

 

2) Last season, Alabama played an all SEC schedule. They destroyed every team except Florida, who they beat by "only" 6 points. Their non-conference games were against Notre Dame and Ohio State, both of whom they destroyed. If you don't think that they were/are legit champions, then you are too clouded by hatred and jealousy to face the obvious. They were the absolute best team in 2020 and up there with, if not the best ever. 

 

3) This Alabama team is coming around, but they are just not as good as the 2020 team, and I never said that they are. Now that this is out of they way, I want to add that I almost never bet games, despite the fact that I am usually correct about Alabama (and the Bills btw). When I do wager I don't post it here, because I'm afraid someone might listen to me, lose money, and get angry. That said, I bet on Alabama against Georgia plus 6 1/2. I also bet them with no points getting 2x1 odds and made a small chunk of money. I did so because you should NEVER give points to Nick Saban, let alone lay odds against him. Never. Now, I will NOT be betting on the Tide against Cincy. Bama is very good but this is not 2020, where laying 14 against Cincy would have been a laughing matter. it still MIGHT be but I'm not as sure.

 

 Now, pleae tell me, do you think that OSU, or any other team in the Big 12 would stand a reasonable chance against Alabama or Georgia?  I mean really. Btw, when Texas A&M left the Big 12 they were able to recruit better players. Players who wanted to face good competetion. Texas will improve in a hurry. Oklahoma probably will not, thus the rapid departure of Lincoln Riley. He went out west to face the same type of weak competetion that he faced at Oklahoma, and he will because at USC, he will out recruit the west coast teams. 

 

In any event, I wouldn't be so upset with an 8 team playoff, providing it did NOT mean extra games for already overworked kids who are risking millions of dollars on every play, let alone every game. 

 

PS: Would players opt out of expanded playoffs? I don't know, you tell me.

 

Peace and Happy Holidays!

 

 

NOTHING of what you said makes any difference in regards to why I'm pro-expansion like nearly EVERY fan of college football... and media member. Nearly every. single. one. 

 

Seems the Alabama fans here are the only ones against it. I wonder why? Maybe because Bama is pretty much consensus top 2 in the country pre-season every year? They are at the top and get to stay around the top 5 regardless if they win or lose (to like a team like A&M). 

 

I'm not arguing how good Alabama football is. It's been the best the past 12-13 years. Will continue to be as long as Saban in the coach. That has nothing to do with what I'm saying. 

BTW: the PAC-12 sucks compared to the Big XII and the rest of the Power 5. There were a LOT of rumors about Riley here in Oklahoma when he left. And Texas hasn't done crap in forever. My Cowboys have kicked their arses the past 10+ season with their 5 star recruits compared to our 3 star guys. There's going to "improve in a hurry" now? LOL. The "Texas is back" theme is a joke in the Big XII and has been. It's a culture problem in Austin. 

[ArdmoreRyno]

15 minutes ago, Cynical said:

Actually, it does not. He did say 20, not 15.

 

 

I said we wouldn't see 20 games. He did. I know what he said. 

 

• Montana State is playing ND State on the 8th of January for the FCS Championship. It's going to be their FIFTEENTH (15th) game played this season. That includes their week one game against Wyoming. 
• Ferris State just beat Valdosta State in the DII Championship game. That was their FOURTEETH (14th) game played this season. 

• Mary Hardin-Baylor beat North Central Illinois for the DIII Championship. Like Montana State, it was their FIFTEENTH (15th) game played this season. 

 

Again, we can play an expanded playoff like the other divisions. We already play up to 15 games now. Not sure what the argument is other than you want to beat up on Mercer and New Mexico State? 

 

23 minutes ago, Cynical said:

Who is in charge of determining which teams are "sub-par"?

 

This was a comment/term used by your fellow Bama fan. Not me dude. 

 

If we should make automatic qualifiers, then let's do it. That way even smaller conferences get a shot. But Mike's argument is teams he dubbed "sub-par" aren't worthy of playing the mighty and the great Alabama Crimson Tide. Probably think that about Cincy too, right? 

 

25 minutes ago, Cynical said:

A true NCAA championship? Nope.

Do not see any representative from the PAC-12, Sunbelt, Mountain West, C-USA, etc.. in your scenario.

Not to mention the NCAA has nothing to do with the FBS playoffs.

A "true" National Champion is a unicorn, an unachievable desire.

WTF are you talking about? I never said the NCAA has anything to do with a real championship or the playoffs. I argue with OU fans all the time, it's a mythical title anyway. That's why we need an expanded playoff system like FCS, DII and DIII (yes, I'm well aware of the divisions, not sure what the point of your comment is). I'm advocating for an expansion so the NCAA can take charge and give us a real championship trophy unlike the BCS or CFP. Or hell, back when the AP crowned the champion. 

 

It's completely achievable. You just have to do it. I say that because IT'S ALREDY BEING DONE in other divisions. 

 

27 minutes ago, Cynical said:

The only "answers" we would have are the ones you would be willing to accept.

As far I am concerned, we already had the answer.

It was called the BCS: 1 vs 2.

Everything else was moot.

 

 

The BCS was completely flawed. See the 2011 season for a prime example. Alabama didn't even win their own division, couldn't play for a conference title and yet they get into the BCS title game... because they are Alabama (rolling my eyes). 

29 minutes ago, Cynical said:

I have long advocated for the Power conferences to tell the NCAA to go pound sand, leave, and create their own Association.

 

 

This would be the best solution to all this. I do agree. 

[Bill from NYC]

2 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

 

NOTHING of what you said makes any difference in regards to why I'm pro-expansion like nearly EVERY fan of college football... and media member. Nearly every. single. one. 

 

Seems the Alabama fans here are the only ones against it. I wonder why? Maybe because Bama is pretty much consensus top 2 in the country pre-season every year? They are at the top and get to stay around the top 5 regardless if they win or lose (to like a team like A&M). 

 

I'm not arguing how good Alabama football is. It's been the best the past 12-13 years. Will continue to be as long as Saban in the coach. That has nothing to do with what I'm saying. 

BTW: the PAC-12 sucks compared to the Big XII and the rest of the Power 5. There were a LOT of rumors about Riley here in Oklahoma when he left. And Texas hasn't done crap in forever. My Cowboys have kicked their arses the past 10+ season with their 5 star recruits compared to our 3 star guys. There's going to "improve in a hurry" now? LOL. The "Texas is back" theme is a joke in the Big XII and has been. It's a culture problem in Austin. 

Thanks for responding, but; you seem to not want to answer direct questions. 

[ArdmoreRyno]

3 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

Thanks for responding, but; you seem to not want to answer direct questions. 

Ummm... what? I wrote out my feelings on the playoffs. Pointed out no one plays 20 games; including the divisions with 32 teams playing

post season. 
 

You ignored all my points. 
 

Reply to my points and then let me know what you’d like me to address. I will definitely address them. 
 

You’re making this about me talking about Alabama. I’m not. I’m talking expanded playoffs and why we need it and how it can work. You bring up Bama, Saban and the Tides schedule? 🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️

Edited December 21, 2021 by ArdmoreRyno

[Mark Vader]

On 12/15/2021 at 3:45 PM, Bill from NYC said:

Does anyone wish to share views/predictions?

 

I'll start:

 

Imo these playoffs are wide open. I want to say up front that Alabama is nowhere near as good as they were last season. The thing is, please tell me who else is. I think that Bama can beat Cincy if they out muscle them. Another factor is that the more time Nick Saban has to prepare for a game, the better his chances are at winning. this is proven.

 

In terms of Michigan/Georgia, to be honest I am rooting for Michigan. I don't know enough about the Big 10 to make an assertion about how good Michigan is. I happen to believe that Georgia is very good. So, if Alabama does defeat Cincy, I would rather see them face Michigan than Georgia. Am I looking at this the wrong way?

I would appreciate any input from Big 10 fans, as well as UGA and Cincy fans. 

A few weeks ago I thought that no matter who was making it to the playoffs, it wouldn't really matter because Georgia looked like a team of destiny.

 

Now I don't know what to think.

 

Alabama will more likely beat Cincinnati, but I don't think it'll be a blow out win.

 

The Michigan-Georgia game could go either way, and should be a thrilling match-up.

 

As to your reference to Michigan, and as a Michigan fan, I to don't know how good they are.

 

The Wolverines started the season unranked, then in their first game against Western Michigan, they won easily but lost Ronnie Bell, their top WR, to a season ending knee injury.

 

They would get significant wins over Washington and back-to-back road victories over Wisconsin & Nebraska.

 

Then came the first big game of the year against Michigan State, which they subsequently lost after having a large lead in the second half.

 

Despite that, they persevered instead of folding. They would get another hard fought victory in Happy Valley against the Nittany Lions.

 

Finally came the big game against Ohio State which they won convincingly and then took care of business with Iowa in the Big 10 Championship game. It's been quite a ride for this team that most people did not have real expectations for, yours truly included.

 

This is a solid team with it's share of standout players. DE Aidan Hutchinson being the biggest one of all, but he's not the only player on defense who makes an impact.

 

The Wolverines have good LB's in David Ojabo & Josh Ross and a strong secondary lead by Daxton Hill, DJ Turner & Vincent Gray. DL Mazi Smith is another good player.

 

On offense, it's all about RB Hassan Haskins, who has made the most of it this year. Both he and speedy RB Blake Corum give the Wolverines a Thunder & Lightning combo. Freshman Donovan Edwards has also become a good contributor as of late.

 

QB Cade McNamara is a solid, above average player. He's a pocket passer with decent athleticism. He can be hit or miss, as he still has a tendency to be off target on his passes. Ironically, his best game as a passer was in the loss to Michigan State.

He doesn't have the athleticism or the high ceiling potential as Freshman J.J. McCarthy does, but he has done a good job in leading the offense.

 

At Wide Receiver, the Wolverines have a lot of speedy smurfs. None of them really stand out as playmakers, except Freshman Andrell Anthony has been a late season contributor who has flashed great ability.

Tight Ends Erick All & Luke Schoonmaker have been prime targets all year.

 

The Offensive Line is lead by veterans Andrew Vastardis & Andrew Stueber, along with Zak Zinter who have all been strong in leading the rushing attack.

 

Kicker Jake Moody is one of the best, if not the best in the nation, and Punter Brad Robbins is excellent. GO BLUE!!!

[Buffalo Barbarian]

Im just here to say 32 teams 😈😈

On 12/19/2021 at 4:19 PM, Bill from NYC said:

Why not? Because college students should not be required to play 20 game seasons in order to satisfy the whims of fans of sub-par teams.

 

The bolded is just so laughable that a comment would be a waste of time.

 

 

 

C'mon Bill, the division 2 guys do it so can the higher levels. They arent old men, they can can handle the workload ,they will be ok.

 

 

[Bill from NYC]

25 minutes ago, Buffalo Barbarian said:

C'mon Bill, the division 2 guys do it so can the higher levels. They arent old men, they can can handle the workload ,they will be ok.

 

If the schedule is increased, many players will opt out of the playoffs imo. They are already opting out of bowl games. The injury rate for football players is 100%. It is only a matter of how servere the injuries are. These kids (a huge percentage of them from poverty stricken backgrounds) risk millions of dollars on every play, let alone extra games. Should they be forced or even asked to play more games in order to satisfy the whims and dreams of fans who cheer for teams that are just not up to standards 99% of the time (Big 12 teams for example)?  If they expand to 8, fans of so so teams will cry for 12. Then 16. 

 

All football fans have a bit of that gladiator audience mentality imo. That said, it is unfair for these college players to take upon even more risk than they already do. If some games were eliminated from the schedule and conference championship games were eliminated, perhaps I could support expanded playoffs. As far as all conference play, that too is unfair. Teams in the ACC and Big 12 would only play the patsies in their own weak ass divisions, no?

 

Please, correct me where I am wrong. 

[Buffalo Barbarian]

11 minutes ago, Bill from NYC said:

If the schedule is increased, many players will opt out of the playoffs imo. They are already opting out of bowl games. The injury rate for football players is 100%. It is only a matter of how servere the injuries are. These kids (a huge percentage of them from poverty stricken backgrounds) risk millions of dollars on every play, let alone extra games. Should they be forced or even asked to play more games in order to satisfy the whims and dreams of fans who cheer for teams that are just not up to standards 99% of the time (Big 12 teams for example)?  If they expand to 8, fans of so so teams will cry for 12. Then 16. 

 

All football fans have a bit of that gladiator audience mentality imo. That said, it is unfair for these college players to take upon even more risk than they already do. If some games were eliminated from the schedule and conference championship games were eliminated, perhaps I could support expanded playoffs. As far as all conference play, that too is unfair. Teams in the ACC and Big 12 would only play the patsies in their own weak ass divisions, no?

 

Please, correct me where I am wrong. 

 

Which is why they will start playing players, colleges dont want to lose.

 

 

 

Just now, Buffalo Barbarian said:

 

Which is why they will start playing players, colleges dont want to lose.

 

 

 

 

Its always about the fans, no fans no game, eventually we bet what we want, which is why the NFL is expanding and will be up to 8 teams per conference soon, more fan involvement , more money for the league, win win.

 

 

[YoloinOhio]

Covid cases at UGA

JT Daniels and George Pickens 

[Cynical]

On 12/20/2021 at 3:49 PM, ArdmoreRyno said:

Again, we can play an expanded playoff like the other divisions. We already play up to 15 games now. Not sure what the argument is other than you want to beat up on Mercer and New Mexico State? 

 

In order to expand the playoffs, there are 2 options:

1) Have the playoff teams play more games (above the 15 being played now)

2) Reduce the amount of regular season games played to keep the total number down to 15.

 

You appear to advocate for option 2.

The problem with option 2 is asking the power conferences/teams to drop games from their schedule.

They can't drop conference games (obviously).

The only thing left is OOC games.

Do they drop the OOC game against another power team?

Or do they drop the guaranteed home game (and the revenue it generates) that comes with playing the 'sub par' teams?

 

IMO, the schools/conferences are not going to be overwhelming willing to eliminate any regular season games, making option 1 the more likely "solution".

Hence, why Bill keeps talking about playing additional games.

 

 

On 12/20/2021 at 3:49 PM, ArdmoreRyno said:

If we should make automatic qualifiers, then let's do it. That way even smaller conferences get a shot.

 

So you you think a 9-5 Northern Illinois team should get in while a 11-2 Okie State should be left out?

I mean, that N. Ill team played one hell of a grueling schedule against such juggernauts like Akron, UB, Kent. etc ...

 

On 12/20/2021 at 3:49 PM, ArdmoreRyno said:

But Mike's argument is teams he dubbed "sub-par" aren't worthy of playing the mighty and the great Alabama Crimson Tide. Probably think that about Cincy too, right? 

 

Who is "Mike"? Did you mean Bill?

 

On 12/20/2021 at 3:49 PM, ArdmoreRyno said:

WTF are you talking about? I never said the NCAA has anything to do with a real championship or the playoffs. I argue with OU fans all the time, it's a mythical title anyway. That's why we need an expanded playoff system like FCS, DII and DIII (yes, I'm well aware of the divisions, not sure what the point of your comment is).

 

You seem to have a problem with what the FCS is:

 

On 12/17/2021 at 10:14 AM, ArdmoreRyno said:

We would then FINALLY have a TRUE NCAA champion. Something we have never had in D1/FCS football.

On 12/20/2021 at 9:25 AM, ArdmoreRyno said:

NCAA D2 (FCS) and NCAA D3 all play a solid post-season playoff. D3 has 32 teams make it, D2 has 24.

 

Between confusing the FCS with Div 1 and Div 2, and now referring to Bill as "Mike" ....

 

On 12/20/2021 at 3:49 PM, ArdmoreRyno said:

I'm advocating for an expansion so the NCAA can take charge and give us a real championship trophy unlike the BCS or CFP. Or hell, back when the AP crowned the champion. 

 

... pretty much confirmed.

You're just an attention seeking idiot looking to stir the pot.

 

The NCAA is not the solution.

They are part of the overall damn problem.

 

On 12/20/2021 at 3:49 PM, ArdmoreRyno said:

The BCS was completely flawed. See the 2011 season for a prime example. Alabama didn't even win their own division, couldn't play for a conference title and yet they get into the BCS title game... because they are Alabama (rolling my eyes).

 

Yes, the BCS was flawed. The polling system was flawed. The CFB playoffs are flawed.

It will not matter how many teams get to make the playoffs.

It will always be flawed.

 

If the NC is mythical to begin with, and any process to determine that NC is flawed, what's the point?

You cannot fix that is not fixable.

 

The reality is you care about being entertained more than the game itself.

 

 

[Bill from NYC]

Wow, Georgia has players out including their QB. The NCAA announced there weird rules about teams stricken with covid and unable to field a team having to forfeit!!!

Can anyone begin to imagine the exploding heads across America if Alabama (whose OC and OL Coach (Marrone) tested positive) was named the national champions by virtue of covid??????

@ArdmoreRyno if the above happens, I am here to help.  All kidding aside, Happy Holidays and enjoy the games (if they happen).

 

https://wolverineswire.usatoday.com/2021/12/22/georgia-bulldogs-jt-daniels-george-pickens-in-covid-19-protocol-nine-days-before-college-football-playoff/

 

Edited December 23, 2021 by Bill from NYC

[Buffalo Barbarian]

3 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

Wow, Georgia has players out including their QB. The NCAA announced there weird rules about teams stricken with covid and unable to field a team having to forfeit!!!

Can anyone begin to imagine the exploding heads across America if Alabama (whose OC and OL Coach (Marrone) tested positive) was named the national champions by virtue of covid??????

@ArdmoreRyno if the above happens, I am here to help.  All kidding aside, Happy Holidays and enjoy the games (if they happen).

 

https://wolverineswire.usatoday.com/2021/12/22/georgia-bulldogs-jt-daniels-george-pickens-in-covid-19-protocol-nine-days-before-college-football-playoff/

 

 

Ridiculous

 

 

[Willyville Guy]

I didn’t know the Cincinnati RB was an Alabama transfer. Kid probably couldn’t get on the field with the Tide and is now a featured back on a surprise playoff team. Good for him. Stories like this show why the portal is a good thing despite all the related headaches. 

 

 

[Bill from NYC]

5 hours ago, Willyville Guy said:

I didn’t know the Cincinnati RB was an Alabama transfer. Kid probably couldn’t get on the field with the Tide and is now a featured back on a surprise playoff team. Good for him. Stories like this show why the portal is a good thing despite all the related headaches. 

 

 

As I recall, he was 4th if not 5th string. I'm serious. When he transferred out, nobody cared as far as I know. 

 

I too wish him well except for Saturday.

Edited December 27, 2021 by Bill from NYC

[Willyville Guy]

6 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

As I recall, he was 4th if not 5th string. I'm serious. When he transferred out, nobody cared as far as I know. 

 

I too wish him well except for Saturday.

 

I'm sure that's right, and I completely get it. He earned a scholarship at Alabama, which is quite an accomplishment for a teenager in any event, and once the reality set in about his place on the depth chart, he decided to bet on himself with a different program rather than wait and see if he would eventually get an opportunity with the Tide. I don't know anything about him or his situation, and I certainly don't second-guess the Tide's evaluation, but it's a sign of the times that he was able to transfer to another program and make an impact. Even with all the chaos that the portal creates among CFB programs, it's good to see that kids now have the freedom to change their situations if they are able to. 

[ArdmoreRyno]

On 12/22/2021 at 2:45 PM, Cynical said:

ou're just an attention seeking idiot looking to stir the pot.

Nice. Is this how Alabama fans are? 
 

I argue for expansion and you throw out insults. Real nice dude. 
 

And yea... I apologize, I meant Bill. That neglects my explaining to you I didn’t call anyone “subpar”, that was Bills term. 
 

FYI: The entire college fanbase hates Alabama like we hate the Patriots. No one outside Bama fans like the Tide. Zero. The Bama fans make that even more apparent. 
 

Have a good one. 

[Bill from NYC]

On 12/22/2021 at 3:45 PM, Cynical said:

 

In order to expand the playoffs, there are 2 options:

1) Have the playoff teams play more games (above the 15 being played now)

2) Reduce the amount of regular season games played to keep the total number down to 15.

 

You appear to advocate for option 2.

The problem with option 2 is asking the power conferences/teams to drop games from their schedule.

They can't drop conference games (obviously).

The only thing left is OOC games.

Do they drop the OOC game against another power team?

Or do they drop the guaranteed home game (and the revenue it generates) that comes with playing the 'sub par' teams?

 

IMO, the schools/conferences are not going to be overwhelming willing to eliminate any regular season games, making option 1 the more likely "solution".

Hence, why Bill keeps talking about playing additional games.

Thanks for helping me make my point. If Josh Allen played extra games and got a serious injury, he might not be the QB that he is today. Ask this kid how he feels right now about playing in a meaningless bowl game.  I sincerely mean it when I say that I think kids will opt out of playoff games if the playoffs were expanded. 

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/ole-miss-qb-and-2022-nfl-draft-prospect-matt-corral-carted-off-field-after-ankle-injury-in-sugar-bowl-031432320.html

[ArdmoreRyno]

6 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

Thanks for helping me make my point. If Josh Allen played extra games and got a serious injury, he might not be the QB that he is today. Ask this kid how he feels right now about playing in a meaningless bowl game.  I sincerely mean it when I say that I think kids will opt out of playoff games if the playoffs were expanded. 

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/ole-miss-qb-and-2022-nfl-draft-prospect-matt-corral-carted-off-field-after-ankle-injury-in-sugar-bowl-031432320.html

kids are opting out now because of other non NY6/CFP bowls are pointless. 
 

Expanding that gives them a reason to play. 
 

And what happened to Corral is rare. Kid has played his entire career like he did last night (my youngest is at Ole Miss) and he just got hurt. Could happen in week 1. So reduce the games by 1 (non conference). 
 

You still only have to play 15 total games. Alabama and UGA are doing that already. 
 

Again, I get why you don’t want it. You’re a Bama fan. 

[Bill from NYC]

44 minutes ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

kids are opting out now because of other non NY6/CFP bowls are pointless. 
 

Expanding that gives them a reason to play. 
 

And what happened to Corral is rare. Kid has played his entire career like he did last night (my youngest is at Ole Miss) and he just got hurt. Could happen in week 1. So reduce the games by 1 (non conference). 
 

You still only have to play 15 total games. Alabama and UGA are doing that already. 
 

Again, I get why you don’t want it. You’re a Bama fan. 

I am not ashamed to be a fan of the Crimson Tide. My long deceased father introduced me to them at age 10. Special things go on in Tuscaloosa when it comes to football, now more than ever despite our illustrious history. You make it sound like a curse.

 

Tell me for once, what games should NOT be  played in order to keep the max amount of games to 15? Should it be those against weak teams (Mercer, etc.)? Should it be some of the conference games? Should it be conference title games? 

 

If the games were all conference games it would be GREAT for you as an OSU fan, right? You could presumably feast on the pansy ass teams in your sissy conference, no? C'mon, really. Do tell us what it is that you want (as if we didn't already know). And btw, if all games were in conference, it wouldn't be fair to teams that play in a REAL conference.

 

I have some novel ideas:

1) Recruit as well as Coach Saban.

2) Find and hire a coach as good as Coach Saban.

3) Play better teams and beat them when it counts.

4)  Win more football games, even against the weak sisters in your conference.

 

Alabama won't be on or near the top forever. They are even the underdogs in the title game and really might lose. Would that sceerio pacify you for even a moment or 2?

 

Once again, Happy New Year and congrats for your win against ND.

 

Do the above and some day you will be in the playoffs.

[ArdmoreRyno]

4 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

5 hours ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

I am not ashamed to be a fan of the Crimson Tide. My long deceased father introduced me to them at age 10. Special things go on in Tuscaloosa when it comes to football, now more than ever despite our illustrious history. You make it sound like a curse.

I never said being a Bama fan is bad. I think it’s made a lot of you (like your fellow fan calling me names instead of having a conversation) arrogant. 
 

4 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

Tell me for once, what games should NOT be  played in order to keep the max amount of games to 15? Should it be those against weak teams (Mercer, etc.)? Should it be some of the conference games? Should it be conference title games? 

Easy, don’t play Mercer or NM State. OSU doesn’t need to play Missouri State or Tulsa plus Boise. 
 

Play ONE non conference game. Why is that difficult? AGAIN, both Bama and UGA will play the same number of games as the other divisions. The same. Not more. It works for them. It can work for us. I’ve stated this over and over and you said we’d play 20 games. Which we wouldn’t. 
 

4 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

If the games were all conference games it would be GREAT for you as an OSU fan, right? You could presumably feast on the pansy ass teams in your sissy conference, no? C'mon, really. Do tell us what it is that you want (as if we didn't already know). And btw, if all games were in conference, it wouldn't be fair to teams that play in a REAL conference.

Huh? lol, dude... SEC is the most top heavy conference in the country and has been for YEARS. Hands down. How has the SEC looked in bowl games? You’re trying to make the claim the Big XII isn’t a “real” conference. Again, let me revert back to explain why everyone hates Alabama. The arrogance. Holy crap dude. 

 

4 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

 

I have some novel ideas:

1) Recruit as well as Coach Saban.

2) Find and hire a coach as good as Coach Saban.

3) Play better teams and beat them when it counts.

4)  Win more football games, even against the weak sisters in your conference.

🤦🏻‍♂️

1. There are few Sabans like there are few Belichicks. Few Woodens. Alabama is a blue blood. OSU will never out recruit Alabama or OU, etc. Like Alabama won’t out recruit OSU in hoops, why? History. With the NIL, will be even harder so it’s up to coaching and what you can do with your 3* recruits. 
2. Mike Gundy is one of the best coaches in college football. See my 3* comment. NO coach does what he does with less talent. Period. 
3. We do. ONLY team OSU has struggled with the past 15 years is OU. We beat everyone else. Including Texas. 
4. See #3 

 

I've explained my thoughts about what senecio would work. Several times. 

[Bill from NYC]

On 1/2/2022 at 10:36 PM, ArdmoreRyno said:

Easy, don’t play Mercer or NM State. OSU doesn’t need to play Missouri State or Tulsa plus Boise. 
 

Play ONE non conference game. Why is that difficult? AGAIN, both Bama and UGA will play the same number of games as the other divisions. The same. Not more. It works for them. It can work for us. I’ve stated this over and over and you said we’d play 20 games. Which we wouldn’t. 

 

I've explained my thoughts about what senecio would work. Several times. 

Correct me if I am wrong, but would the above result in non playoff teams playing less games per season?

 

If so, this would cost these schools a ton of money, no?

[ArdmoreRyno]

23 hours ago, Bill from NYC said:

Correct me if I am wrong, but would the above result in non playoff teams playing less games per season?

 

If so, this would cost these schools a ton of money, no?

 

Yes. About $500,000 to $1 million on average I believe. 

 

So if that's the argument.... teams like Mercer and New Mexico State not making as much money is your ground for argument against an expanded Playoff, then you win. lol 

 

Good luck tonight. Hope it's a good game. 

[Bill from NYC]

1 hour ago, ArdmoreRyno said:

 

Yes. About $500,000 to $1 million on average I believe. 

 

So if that's the argument.... teams like Mercer and New Mexico State not making as much money is your ground for argument against an expanded Playoff, then you win. lol 

 

Good luck tonight. Hope it's a good game. 

My argument consists of far more than that. It would seem as if all non-playoff teams would lose money, some quite a bit.

 

In any event, thanks for the well wish. I think that our best chance at beating them is with our defense. They couldn't stop our offense last time but that doesn't mean anything. The Tide needs to execute and forget the past.