The Seattle Time's is reporting that Kenny James has a broken arm. The injury is about two weeks old, and takes four weeks to heal, so he should be back to full strength by the opener. The break is described to be about as minor as possible and should not hinder him much in preparations to begin the season. Diagnosis is he suffered a broken radius bone in his right forearm during a workout with other players a couple of weeks ago, a school spokesman confirmed.
Once again we have a remider that if this team does not stay healthy it can go to hell in a hand basket pretty quickly. UW cannot afford injuries at running back period. While Mosley and Meyers will get looks, and the opportunity to prepare the team for opponents, nobody wants to see them out there this year.
Seattle Times
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Game Nine Arizona State
Dirk Koetter silenced the critics with an upper division finish and a bowl game. They had LSU on the ropes early last season so they can certainly play some ball. The Devils go into this year as a legit title contender if they can fill some major holes on defense.
ASU is led not by one, but by two elite QB's in Keller and Carpenter. The two combined threw for over 4000 yards and 37 touchdowns. The Devils are a little light in experience at WR and RB coming into the year. Keegan Herring will start at TB, and converted TE Jamaal Lewis will try to be ASU's version of Marcel Reese. The Devils are tough up front with four starters returning. The Sparky's are going to be able to score points as usual. Recruiting wise the Devils bring in an excellent class this year with more than a few guys included that Washington coveted.
Defensively the Sun Devils come into the season with question marks at every position except Safety. The defensive line is a work in progress, they brought in 3 transfers to shore up the positions. LB is another area in a state of flux with depth problems. The Devils are going to need to score a lot of points per game because their D is going to give up a lot too.
Why Washington will win
It's Halloween and Spooky things happen this time of year in Husky Stadium.
The Weather at the end of October can slow down a passing game.
The Husky Defense is able to slow down the Sun Devil offense
UW is able to take advantage of a porous ASU defense.
I am assuming the Huskies are having a very healthy year and the offensive line has somehow jelled to give the skill guys room to do their stuff.
Why Arizona State will win
This doesn't look like an exceptional ASU team on paper going into the season, but the two headed monster at QB will light up the scoreboard all year.
The ASU offensive line is able to control the line of scrimmage.
The ASU defense is improved dramatically from last years rating of 114 th in the nation.
The frosh and JC class they recruited are able to fill the gaping holes in the defense and the skill positions.
What do I think?
I am predicting an upset. Sure ASU is an upper division team, but I think they will finish behind USC, Oregon, and Cal. I don't think their defense however will allow them a chance to beat the later three.
Why do I think we are going to upset them?
I have no respect for their defense, and I think we can score on them like we scored on UCLA last year. Yep, I think we scorch them for more than thirty at home. Defensively I think we can hold them to less than we score.......simple as that.
The weather could be a factor too, and the warm weather team's hate late October, and November in Seattle if it is windy and rainy.
Well here I am predicting 6-3 after game 9 fully knowing that we could just as easily be 1-7 too. This is certainly what you would call dancing on the edge.
W - Washington 38 Arizona 31 (6-3)
ASU is led not by one, but by two elite QB's in Keller and Carpenter. The two combined threw for over 4000 yards and 37 touchdowns. The Devils are a little light in experience at WR and RB coming into the year. Keegan Herring will start at TB, and converted TE Jamaal Lewis will try to be ASU's version of Marcel Reese. The Devils are tough up front with four starters returning. The Sparky's are going to be able to score points as usual. Recruiting wise the Devils bring in an excellent class this year with more than a few guys included that Washington coveted.
Defensively the Sun Devils come into the season with question marks at every position except Safety. The defensive line is a work in progress, they brought in 3 transfers to shore up the positions. LB is another area in a state of flux with depth problems. The Devils are going to need to score a lot of points per game because their D is going to give up a lot too.
Why Washington will win
It's Halloween and Spooky things happen this time of year in Husky Stadium.
The Weather at the end of October can slow down a passing game.
The Husky Defense is able to slow down the Sun Devil offense
UW is able to take advantage of a porous ASU defense.
I am assuming the Huskies are having a very healthy year and the offensive line has somehow jelled to give the skill guys room to do their stuff.
Why Arizona State will win
This doesn't look like an exceptional ASU team on paper going into the season, but the two headed monster at QB will light up the scoreboard all year.
The ASU offensive line is able to control the line of scrimmage.
The ASU defense is improved dramatically from last years rating of 114 th in the nation.
The frosh and JC class they recruited are able to fill the gaping holes in the defense and the skill positions.
What do I think?
I am predicting an upset. Sure ASU is an upper division team, but I think they will finish behind USC, Oregon, and Cal. I don't think their defense however will allow them a chance to beat the later three.
Why do I think we are going to upset them?
I have no respect for their defense, and I think we can score on them like we scored on UCLA last year. Yep, I think we scorch them for more than thirty at home. Defensively I think we can hold them to less than we score.......simple as that.
The weather could be a factor too, and the warm weather team's hate late October, and November in Seattle if it is windy and rainy.
Well here I am predicting 6-3 after game 9 fully knowing that we could just as easily be 1-7 too. This is certainly what you would call dancing on the edge.
W - Washington 38 Arizona 31 (6-3)
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
News from the World of Tailgaiting
Guess what, we have a new feature, The Weekly Tailgating Section. Once a week I will be sharing my extensive pre game party knowledge meant to enhance your own pre game experience.
If your a Husky fan you realize the importance of a good tailgate party. Being on the shores of Lake Washington beside the remains of the old UW golf course is one of the better locations in college football to throw a pre game party. How many times have you heard someone make reference of where to meet with the climbing rock being part of the directions.
I also have spent a lot of time in the parking lot behind the Texaco station. Wherever you set up you need the right tools.
This week we are going to look at a couple of the newer essentials in Tailgaiting Technology which are sure to keep any group properly entertained.
The TailGator Gas Blender
No Cord! No Boundaries!
Imagine, you're at a Montlake tailgate party or on a roadtrip, or even just out camping. You decide it's about time to have a margarita and make some new friends. So, you whip out the party supplies and your Totally Portable TailGator®. You'll never be lonely again!
We bought this for a friend of mine a few years ago for his bachelor party, and it has really been a hit. We first used it tubing down a river in Wisconsin. You want to make new friends? Just pull the cord of this chainsaw/hybrid blender.
UW Logo Branding Irons
This is one of the stranger items out there this year. It is meant for branding steaks but I am sure it will turn up at more than one SEC fraternity during hazing season. Believe it or not branding is a fraternity tradition in the Southeast, especially in the traditional black schools, and fraternities. Don't ask me why. Thank you sir, can I have another?
Edible Shot Glasses
One question? Why did they wait so long to come up with this? You whip one of these out for the boyz with a little Jaegar and now you have something!
The Beer Belt
Being able to move freely while you are pounding brews is essential to having the best time possible.
Loggerheading
Loggerheading is the process of heating a piece of iron then inserting it into a glass of beer. The piece of iron is known as a loggerhead or poker; when heated, a hot poker. The residual sugars in the beer will caramelize on the poker and impart a unique flavor to the beer. Fire, hot steel, and alcohol, what could be more fun? Remember real Huskies don't wipe their pokers!
If your a Husky fan you realize the importance of a good tailgate party. Being on the shores of Lake Washington beside the remains of the old UW golf course is one of the better locations in college football to throw a pre game party. How many times have you heard someone make reference of where to meet with the climbing rock being part of the directions.
I also have spent a lot of time in the parking lot behind the Texaco station. Wherever you set up you need the right tools.
This week we are going to look at a couple of the newer essentials in Tailgaiting Technology which are sure to keep any group properly entertained.
The TailGator Gas Blender
No Cord! No Boundaries!
Imagine, you're at a Montlake tailgate party or on a roadtrip, or even just out camping. You decide it's about time to have a margarita and make some new friends. So, you whip out the party supplies and your Totally Portable TailGator®. You'll never be lonely again!
We bought this for a friend of mine a few years ago for his bachelor party, and it has really been a hit. We first used it tubing down a river in Wisconsin. You want to make new friends? Just pull the cord of this chainsaw/hybrid blender.
UW Logo Branding Irons
This is one of the stranger items out there this year. It is meant for branding steaks but I am sure it will turn up at more than one SEC fraternity during hazing season. Believe it or not branding is a fraternity tradition in the Southeast, especially in the traditional black schools, and fraternities. Don't ask me why. Thank you sir, can I have another?
Edible Shot Glasses
One question? Why did they wait so long to come up with this? You whip one of these out for the boyz with a little Jaegar and now you have something!
The Beer Belt
Being able to move freely while you are pounding brews is essential to having the best time possible.
Loggerheading
Loggerheading is the process of heating a piece of iron then inserting it into a glass of beer. The piece of iron is known as a loggerhead or poker; when heated, a hot poker. The residual sugars in the beer will caramelize on the poker and impart a unique flavor to the beer. Fire, hot steel, and alcohol, what could be more fun? Remember real Huskies don't wipe their pokers!
Monday, July 31, 2006
Game Ready...Some important questions
I think one of the biggest questions going into the season is if Washington is going to be game ready from a conditioning standpoint. Everything we are talking about is just a positive guess until these guys start practicing under the watchful eye's of the coaches. I think we all understand the lack of talent/depth issue, but there really should be no excuse for not lifting weights, working on cardio, and speed.
Is it time to sacrifice the non-believers?
While the coaches can't force players to go to class, stay in shape, and get stronger they can yank their scholarships, and send them packing. Most coaches would have cut left, and right the minute they got to Seattle. Ty didn't do it, and we didn't expect him to, but he did send some potential 5th year seniors packing, and I expect more of the same at the end of this year. The question is, will it be enough? Can Ty afford to remain patient if UW goes 2-9 again? I don't think he can, not if he wants to be head coach three years from now. I think he needs to make a Jim Owens/Bear Bryant type of statement with his actions. Sure it doesn't look good for a month or two, but 2-9 sucks forever.
Another question I have is if the coaching staff is continuing to give 100%?
I am a booster of Ty. I liked his work at Stanford, and Notre Dame. He is never going to be mentioned in the same breath as Don James, John McKay, or Ara Parseghian, but he has shown he is a competent head coach. Is Ty going to sleep in his office like DJ did when things were careening off the tracks? Is he going to work as hard as a Jeff Tedford? Does Ty have what it takes to turn this thing around? I ask this because the UW job is probably one of the toughest in the country right now.
What about the staff? Are they doing everything they can to insure a winning season or are they just going through the motions and collecting a paycheck? What are they doing on a daily basis to turn around the culture and cultivate some leaders?
Do the players respect the coaches?
I question if the majority of the team respects, and fears the coaches. Yes fear, a healthy fear that every single player had of Don James.
Most of them never even got to know him till after they finished school. He was always there, his door was always open, but kids respected him, and they had a healthy fear of him, and for godsakes it wasn't buddy, buddy. I don't blame it on the current staff, they have only been here a year, but when exactly do you ratchet it up and tighten it all down? When do you lay down the law on what it takes to be a Husky in the true Husky tradition?
Who are the leaders?
Just exactly who are the leaders on this team? Who are the guys who are taking Summer workouts seriously? What guys are making sure their team mates are in the weight room? Who is leading by example? Some players need to emerge here quickly. Willingham raved about Lobendahn, it wasn't the crippled LB's play, it was his attitude. Who is going to be the guys that step in for him, and move it up a couple of notches?
The Biggest Question
The biggest question this team has going into the season is if they really want it, and I am not just talking about the players, I am talking about the coaches too. This team can have a winning season, but they have to want it enough to do the things to make sure they put themselves in that position. We won't know for sure till practice starts, but I can tell you this, an astute observer will be able to tell the minute they hit the field on the ninth.
Is it time to sacrifice the non-believers?
While the coaches can't force players to go to class, stay in shape, and get stronger they can yank their scholarships, and send them packing. Most coaches would have cut left, and right the minute they got to Seattle. Ty didn't do it, and we didn't expect him to, but he did send some potential 5th year seniors packing, and I expect more of the same at the end of this year. The question is, will it be enough? Can Ty afford to remain patient if UW goes 2-9 again? I don't think he can, not if he wants to be head coach three years from now. I think he needs to make a Jim Owens/Bear Bryant type of statement with his actions. Sure it doesn't look good for a month or two, but 2-9 sucks forever.
Another question I have is if the coaching staff is continuing to give 100%?
I am a booster of Ty. I liked his work at Stanford, and Notre Dame. He is never going to be mentioned in the same breath as Don James, John McKay, or Ara Parseghian, but he has shown he is a competent head coach. Is Ty going to sleep in his office like DJ did when things were careening off the tracks? Is he going to work as hard as a Jeff Tedford? Does Ty have what it takes to turn this thing around? I ask this because the UW job is probably one of the toughest in the country right now.
What about the staff? Are they doing everything they can to insure a winning season or are they just going through the motions and collecting a paycheck? What are they doing on a daily basis to turn around the culture and cultivate some leaders?
Do the players respect the coaches?
I question if the majority of the team respects, and fears the coaches. Yes fear, a healthy fear that every single player had of Don James.
Most of them never even got to know him till after they finished school. He was always there, his door was always open, but kids respected him, and they had a healthy fear of him, and for godsakes it wasn't buddy, buddy. I don't blame it on the current staff, they have only been here a year, but when exactly do you ratchet it up and tighten it all down? When do you lay down the law on what it takes to be a Husky in the true Husky tradition?
Who are the leaders?
Just exactly who are the leaders on this team? Who are the guys who are taking Summer workouts seriously? What guys are making sure their team mates are in the weight room? Who is leading by example? Some players need to emerge here quickly. Willingham raved about Lobendahn, it wasn't the crippled LB's play, it was his attitude. Who is going to be the guys that step in for him, and move it up a couple of notches?
The Biggest Question
The biggest question this team has going into the season is if they really want it, and I am not just talking about the players, I am talking about the coaches too. This team can have a winning season, but they have to want it enough to do the things to make sure they put themselves in that position. We won't know for sure till practice starts, but I can tell you this, an astute observer will be able to tell the minute they hit the field on the ninth.
Game Eight California...ouch again
California has risen under Jeff Tedford to take Washington's role in the Pac Ten. That role was to compete against USC for championships and scoop up the recruits that USC can't take. Tedford has done a superb job at Cal, superb enough that he was Washington's first choice to replace Keith Gilbertson. Tedford stayed at Cal with the promise of new facilities, a bump in pay, and most importantly the opportunity to stay in the Bay Area to raise his children. Tedford's probable next stop is in the NFL, but expect him to stay at Cal for awhile.
While it is easy to pick USC as the 2006 conference champion I am going with California who should be able to give SC everything they can handle. Two teams from the Pac Ten should make the BCS this year, and Cal is one of them. The difference with Cal is the defense, these guys have the potential to be special.
The reason Cal is going to be tough is that they have 15 talented starters back and are led by the best back in the conference Marshawn Lynch. Ayoob is back as QB, but Tedford is throwing the position into competition with four guys competing for the starting nod. At WR the Bears have a lot of speed led by Lavelle Hawkins, and Desean Jackson. The only perceived weakeness may be the offensive line where they will have four new starters.
On defense they are laed by all American Tackle Brandon Mebane, and Matt Melele easily the best inside tandem in the conference. At end they have both starters returnng so they are really solid up front. At LB rhey are saying it is the best group they have had in 40 years. Seatle O'Dea product Anthony Felder was a frosh AA at LB last year. In the backfield they need to replace the safeties, but Mixon, and Hughes at CB rate as the best in the conference. The Bears will be very tough defensively and that is the reason I pick them to win the conference.
Did You Notice?
Did you notice that a lot of the names of the Cal guys seem really familiar? If you are a regular at the Dawgman site, I am sure you noticed that. Well the reason is we finished second during recruitng on most of them. The players we traditonally used to get are going to California. Arizona, and Oregon are chipping away too. We have a lot of work to do to get that talent back.
Why California will win
Cal is a true BCS team heading into the season. Last season was derailed by rebuilding, and injuries, or they would have been there again. If you remember Cal just destroyed Oklahoma when they were healthy to start the season. Count on them to be much better at the start of this season which is scary.
Cal's defensive is going to shut Washington down, no doubt about it, they are going to pummel our offensive line which will shut off the running game. At that point it will be all on IS under heavy pressure, not a pretty picture.
Ayoob isn't anything special, and he might not start this year, but he had no problem picking UW apart last year in his first game after the starter was injured.
Offensively the Bear's should be in tune by game eight and rounding the corner for the title. The offensive line will experience minor growing pains early, especially at tackle, but they should be able to score more than enough points on the Huskies.
Ty can't outcoach Tedford on gameday. Ty is not in Teford's league, few are right now.
Why Washington will win
The only way Washington wins is if Cal has some serious injuries going into the game. The Bear's have way too much talent for us. Even a crippled Cal team had little problem with us last year.
Turnover's of course are also a great equalizer if you can cash in on them, it does happen, but don't bet on it.
What do I think?
I think it will be the most horrendous spanking of the season. We haven't matched up well with the Bear's since Tedford arrived, and I see nothing that indicates that it has improved in any single area. Defensively we will hold them better than in past years, but if you can't score you can't win. If you can't move the ball you are going to give them the short field, and tire out your defense. If you can't move the ball your QB is going to make mistakes that turn into points as he desperately tries to get something going. They won't hang 50 on us again, but it will be ugly just the same.
This is the start of a brutal three game stretch....Cal, ASU, and Oregon. Keeping healthy now and not losing confidence is crucial to the goal which is a winning record and a bowl game.
California 38 UW 3 (5-3)
While it is easy to pick USC as the 2006 conference champion I am going with California who should be able to give SC everything they can handle. Two teams from the Pac Ten should make the BCS this year, and Cal is one of them. The difference with Cal is the defense, these guys have the potential to be special.
The reason Cal is going to be tough is that they have 15 talented starters back and are led by the best back in the conference Marshawn Lynch. Ayoob is back as QB, but Tedford is throwing the position into competition with four guys competing for the starting nod. At WR the Bears have a lot of speed led by Lavelle Hawkins, and Desean Jackson. The only perceived weakeness may be the offensive line where they will have four new starters.
On defense they are laed by all American Tackle Brandon Mebane, and Matt Melele easily the best inside tandem in the conference. At end they have both starters returnng so they are really solid up front. At LB rhey are saying it is the best group they have had in 40 years. Seatle O'Dea product Anthony Felder was a frosh AA at LB last year. In the backfield they need to replace the safeties, but Mixon, and Hughes at CB rate as the best in the conference. The Bears will be very tough defensively and that is the reason I pick them to win the conference.
Did You Notice?
Did you notice that a lot of the names of the Cal guys seem really familiar? If you are a regular at the Dawgman site, I am sure you noticed that. Well the reason is we finished second during recruitng on most of them. The players we traditonally used to get are going to California. Arizona, and Oregon are chipping away too. We have a lot of work to do to get that talent back.
Why California will win
Cal is a true BCS team heading into the season. Last season was derailed by rebuilding, and injuries, or they would have been there again. If you remember Cal just destroyed Oklahoma when they were healthy to start the season. Count on them to be much better at the start of this season which is scary.
Cal's defensive is going to shut Washington down, no doubt about it, they are going to pummel our offensive line which will shut off the running game. At that point it will be all on IS under heavy pressure, not a pretty picture.
Ayoob isn't anything special, and he might not start this year, but he had no problem picking UW apart last year in his first game after the starter was injured.
Offensively the Bear's should be in tune by game eight and rounding the corner for the title. The offensive line will experience minor growing pains early, especially at tackle, but they should be able to score more than enough points on the Huskies.
Ty can't outcoach Tedford on gameday. Ty is not in Teford's league, few are right now.
Why Washington will win
The only way Washington wins is if Cal has some serious injuries going into the game. The Bear's have way too much talent for us. Even a crippled Cal team had little problem with us last year.
Turnover's of course are also a great equalizer if you can cash in on them, it does happen, but don't bet on it.
What do I think?
I think it will be the most horrendous spanking of the season. We haven't matched up well with the Bear's since Tedford arrived, and I see nothing that indicates that it has improved in any single area. Defensively we will hold them better than in past years, but if you can't score you can't win. If you can't move the ball you are going to give them the short field, and tire out your defense. If you can't move the ball your QB is going to make mistakes that turn into points as he desperately tries to get something going. They won't hang 50 on us again, but it will be ugly just the same.
This is the start of a brutal three game stretch....Cal, ASU, and Oregon. Keeping healthy now and not losing confidence is crucial to the goal which is a winning record and a bowl game.
California 38 UW 3 (5-3)
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Bow Down to Washington
I was at the last Michigan vs Washington football game in Ann Arbor and a Michigan fan who is a friend of mine commented that our fight song is the most arrogant thing he has ever heard. I had never thought about that, but it must seem that way for other schools. We may have the most arrogant song, but USC has the most obnoxiuous, unless of course you are a Trojan fan then you love it.
Bow Down to Washington is the official fight song of the University of Washington. It was written by Lester Wilson in 1915 for a competition requesting a new song for the university; the competition, sponsored by The Daily, had a grand prize of $25 (the equivalent of $460 in 2005).
"Bow Down to Washington" was first used as a fight song at the Washington-California football game on November 6, 1915. It is typically played and sung at all University of Washington sporting events that the Husky Marching Band is present at.
Bow Down To Washington
Bow down to Washington,
Bow down to Washington,
Mighty are the men
Who wear the purple and the gold,
Joyfully we welcome them
Within the victors fold.
We will carve their names
In the Hall of Fame
To preserve the memory of our devotion.
So heaven help the foes of Washington;
They're trembling at the feet
Of mighty Washington,
Our boys are there with bells,
Their fighting blood excels,
It's harder to push them over the line
Than pass the Dardanelles.
So victory's the cry of Washington...
Our leather lungs together
With a Rah! Rah! Rah!
And o'er the land
The loyal band
Will sing the glory
Of Washington forever.
Happy Sunday everyone!
Bow Down to Washington is the official fight song of the University of Washington. It was written by Lester Wilson in 1915 for a competition requesting a new song for the university; the competition, sponsored by The Daily, had a grand prize of $25 (the equivalent of $460 in 2005).
"Bow Down to Washington" was first used as a fight song at the Washington-California football game on November 6, 1915. It is typically played and sung at all University of Washington sporting events that the Husky Marching Band is present at.
Bow Down To Washington
Bow down to Washington,
Bow down to Washington,
Mighty are the men
Who wear the purple and the gold,
Joyfully we welcome them
Within the victors fold.
We will carve their names
In the Hall of Fame
To preserve the memory of our devotion.
So heaven help the foes of Washington;
They're trembling at the feet
Of mighty Washington,
Our boys are there with bells,
Their fighting blood excels,
It's harder to push them over the line
Than pass the Dardanelles.
So victory's the cry of Washington...
Our leather lungs together
With a Rah! Rah! Rah!
And o'er the land
The loyal band
Will sing the glory
Of Washington forever.
Happy Sunday everyone!
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Pac Ten Football Blog Links
If you look at the right column I have added links to the other Pac Ten Blogs. I haven't found blogs, for Stanford, Arizona, and Arizona St, but when I do I will add them.
Please visit these blogs, add a post, ask a question, but make sure to be courteous while you are there. Hopefully we can get the editors of those blogs to write a visiting team post during the weeks we play them. Doing reciprocal things like that boost the popularity of the linked sites. Having a friendly relationship with the other college football bloggers is a good thing for everyone, it gives everybody more content, and fun.
The blogs are a whole different animal than the network scouting sites such as Rivals, Scout...etc... . I love those sites, but I am also excited about the blogging concept in comparison to message boards.
I will also be adding links from college football blogs all over the country over the next few weeks as time allows. The link for our site will be added to the other blogs and that should insure that we have a lot of traffic going through here once the season starts.
Another thing I have been doing this weekend is optimizing the blog. What that means is that it will start showing up in the search engines over the next few weeks once the site is indexed. I should have done it earlier, but I wanted to see how it went the first month before investing the time and resources. Web optimization is something I spend a lot of time for my health insurance sites, so I have some experience getting good results. For college football it still pretty easy compared to a commodity like health insurance, so we should get some good traffic which will keep things lively around here.
If you guys have any idea's let me know.
Please visit these blogs, add a post, ask a question, but make sure to be courteous while you are there. Hopefully we can get the editors of those blogs to write a visiting team post during the weeks we play them. Doing reciprocal things like that boost the popularity of the linked sites. Having a friendly relationship with the other college football bloggers is a good thing for everyone, it gives everybody more content, and fun.
The blogs are a whole different animal than the network scouting sites such as Rivals, Scout...etc... . I love those sites, but I am also excited about the blogging concept in comparison to message boards.
I will also be adding links from college football blogs all over the country over the next few weeks as time allows. The link for our site will be added to the other blogs and that should insure that we have a lot of traffic going through here once the season starts.
Another thing I have been doing this weekend is optimizing the blog. What that means is that it will start showing up in the search engines over the next few weeks once the site is indexed. I should have done it earlier, but I wanted to see how it went the first month before investing the time and resources. Web optimization is something I spend a lot of time for my health insurance sites, so I have some experience getting good results. For college football it still pretty easy compared to a commodity like health insurance, so we should get some good traffic which will keep things lively around here.
If you guys have any idea's let me know.
Future Scheduling
It looks like we have added a two game series with Nebraska for the early part of the next decade. Washington continues a tradition of battling strong intersectional opponents.
Turner is going to try to schedule more responsibly than Hedges did. The schedules she put together were murder. Fortunately due to the new 12 game season most programs are currently shuffling their schedules around. This has allowed him to get rid of things like Oklahoma/Ohio St, and Michigan/Miami back to back. What was she thinking, oh ya televison dollars, not the good of the program. Talking about killing the goose who layed the golden egg!
In the future your going to see scheduling more like this.
Turner is going to try to schedule more responsibly than Hedges did. The schedules she put together were murder. Fortunately due to the new 12 game season most programs are currently shuffling their schedules around. This has allowed him to get rid of things like Oklahoma/Ohio St, and Michigan/Miami back to back. What was she thinking, oh ya televison dollars, not the good of the program. Talking about killing the goose who layed the golden egg!
In the future your going to see scheduling more like this.
- Elite Program (Notre Dame, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Ohio State etc.)
- Mid Major (Syracuse, Boise St, Fresno St, Air Force, BYU, etc.)
- A Cream Puff (San Jose St, Nevada, Idaho, Duke, Wyoming, etc.)
The Elite game is made for television, the hopes are that it will be picked up nationally as the Oklahoma game is this year. These games are always two game series with both teams getting a home game. These are great games to recruit with, PSA's love the fact that we play in at least a couple of big time opponents per year.
The next level is the mid majors, not as easy as it used to be. Two of the teams I mentioned, FSU, and Air Force defeated us in recent years. In some cases such as Syracuse, and Air Force these are two game series. Fresno on the other hand has no problem scheduling us without a return game at their field. Rule of thumb is you have to have at least 50,000 seats for Washington to consider playing in your out of conference stadium.
The bottom level are the cream puffs. You need to schedule one game you know you can win, of course that didn't work against Nevada a couple of years ago. These teams come to Husky stadium for the money, no other reason, and we never have to reciprocate in most cases.
I would like to see more games against ACC, and SEC opponents just because it would be fun to roadtrip to one of their stadiums. Realistically though we will mostly play the Big 12, Big 1o, and Notre Dame.
The Notre Dame series is a new thing. They swore they would never play us again after the 1948 season where we jobbed them with the refs. Time passed, Moose Krauss died, and Hedges did a nice job getting them to schedule us. While it is not listed, we still have two more games scheduled with them in future years. Look for the relationship to continue. Same with Michigan, and Nebraska, you can expect them once a decade in Husky Stadium.
A look at future Husky schedules
2006: San Jose State, Fresno State, at Oklahoma.
2007: At Syracuse, Boise State, Ohio State.
2008: BYU, Oklahoma, Notre Dame.
2009: Nevada, at Notre Dame, TBA.
2010: at BYU, Nebraska, TBA.
2011: Syracuse, BYU, at Nebraska.
Who would you like to see us play in the future?
Friday, July 28, 2006
Some good news
Since we got our dose of bad news for the Summer I thought I would dig up a couple of encouraging stories.
Jordan White-Frisbee has been cleared for Spring drills. That is great news, the defense is a whole different animal when he is in there. His Freshman year he made Hopoi look like an All American because he freed up so much room. The next year without JWF, Hopoi went to being average. Let's hope he is ready to rumble.
Oregon lost four players, so as I said here and at Dawgman, it happens almost every year in every program. Running back Terrell Jackson, defensive lineman Thor Pili, linebacker Tucker Callahan and offensive lineman Levi Horn -- have decided to leave Oregon for more playing time. Jackson, a sophomore, was the only player among the four who played last season, with 27 carries for 107 yards.
Senior California quarterback Steve Levy has been charged with felony assault after police say he threw a pint glass at a bar bouncer who asked him to leave an establishment in North Beach. Levy has been indefinitely suspended from the team while Cal looks into the situation. The formal charge Levy faces is assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm and the maximum sentence is four years in prison.
Jordan White-Frisbee has been cleared for Spring drills. That is great news, the defense is a whole different animal when he is in there. His Freshman year he made Hopoi look like an All American because he freed up so much room. The next year without JWF, Hopoi went to being average. Let's hope he is ready to rumble.
Oregon lost four players, so as I said here and at Dawgman, it happens almost every year in every program. Running back Terrell Jackson, defensive lineman Thor Pili, linebacker Tucker Callahan and offensive lineman Levi Horn -- have decided to leave Oregon for more playing time. Jackson, a sophomore, was the only player among the four who played last season, with 27 carries for 107 yards.
Senior California quarterback Steve Levy has been charged with felony assault after police say he threw a pint glass at a bar bouncer who asked him to leave an establishment in North Beach. Levy has been indefinitely suspended from the team while Cal looks into the situation. The formal charge Levy faces is assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm and the maximum sentence is four years in prison.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Game Seven Oregon State
This used to be one of the games on the schedule you could circle for a W, just like San Jose St, or Pacific, you could always depend on the Beaver's for a win. The Beav's like everyone else have had their way with us lately, last years 18-10 loss was particularly galling since the game was there for the taking.
Coach Riley is in his second stint with the Beavers. The team is led by UCLA tranfer QB Matt Moore. The Beavers score points under Riley, and the offense should improve with a returning QB. Moore is prone to interceptions, and he had 19 last year, so self destruction is always a part of the Beavers playbook. The OL returns everyone this year and is led by Roy Scheuning. Bernard returns after a 1300 plus year at RB.
The problem with the Beavers is their defense. Their defense was among the worst in the Pac Ten last year, and they lost four of their best players, so they are in a rebuilding mode.
Why Washington will Win
We should be able to run all day on the Beavers.
IS is going to have field day against the Beaver defense.
The Beaver offense while productive will be up against a stiff and opportunistic Washington Defense.
We are playing at Husky Stadium.
Why Oregon State will win
Moore gets hot and Washington can't stop him
Washington hands the ball over to OSU
What do I think?
I think no way do we lose to Oregon State. They have as many holes as we do. This is another one of those winnable games. I just think if offensive line is up to par we should be able to take these guys.
For those keeping score with my predictions that puts us at 5-2 right now. That means one more win for a bowl game. The news of this past week with all the ineligible players wasn't good, but it isn't terminal either, we can play with these guys, and with most of the teams on our schedule.
Washington 38 Oregon St 24 (5-2)
Coach Riley is in his second stint with the Beavers. The team is led by UCLA tranfer QB Matt Moore. The Beavers score points under Riley, and the offense should improve with a returning QB. Moore is prone to interceptions, and he had 19 last year, so self destruction is always a part of the Beavers playbook. The OL returns everyone this year and is led by Roy Scheuning. Bernard returns after a 1300 plus year at RB.
The problem with the Beavers is their defense. Their defense was among the worst in the Pac Ten last year, and they lost four of their best players, so they are in a rebuilding mode.
Why Washington will Win
We should be able to run all day on the Beavers.
IS is going to have field day against the Beaver defense.
The Beaver offense while productive will be up against a stiff and opportunistic Washington Defense.
We are playing at Husky Stadium.
Why Oregon State will win
Moore gets hot and Washington can't stop him
Washington hands the ball over to OSU
What do I think?
I think no way do we lose to Oregon State. They have as many holes as we do. This is another one of those winnable games. I just think if offensive line is up to par we should be able to take these guys.
For those keeping score with my predictions that puts us at 5-2 right now. That means one more win for a bowl game. The news of this past week with all the ineligible players wasn't good, but it isn't terminal either, we can play with these guys, and with most of the teams on our schedule.
Washington 38 Oregon St 24 (5-2)
Montlake Blue's
With the announcement that a couple of key guys may miss the season because of grade/credit problems depth concerns start to get magnified before the first snap of August drills.
The key to word remember is may, as in they may be ineligible, they also may be eligible, nothing is for sure yet, so cross your fingers. I have heard, and it is now posted on the DM board that Hasty should be ok afterall.
IMHO, I find it strange that the Seattle Times would run a rumor rather than wait till the results are in. All it does is cause hassles, pressure and embarrasment for the kids involved. I also wonder where Condotta got the information?
Anyway, just my two cents.
EXTRA EXTRA!
Well guess what, Willingham has confirmed that Hasty, Flowers, and Smith will all be ineligible for this coming season. In addition to that he announced that Chancellor Young was also ineligible, and along with Flowers has dropped out of school and will pursue opportunities elsewhere.
So not really great news. Hasty and Smith will have the opportunity to stay in school if they choose to regain eligibility for next year. I wouldn't count though on Smith being invited back.
So I guess Condotta knew what he was talking about.
The key to word remember is may, as in they may be ineligible, they also may be eligible, nothing is for sure yet, so cross your fingers. I have heard, and it is now posted on the DM board that Hasty should be ok afterall.
IMHO, I find it strange that the Seattle Times would run a rumor rather than wait till the results are in. All it does is cause hassles, pressure and embarrasment for the kids involved. I also wonder where Condotta got the information?
Anyway, just my two cents.
EXTRA EXTRA!
Well guess what, Willingham has confirmed that Hasty, Flowers, and Smith will all be ineligible for this coming season. In addition to that he announced that Chancellor Young was also ineligible, and along with Flowers has dropped out of school and will pursue opportunities elsewhere.
So not really great news. Hasty and Smith will have the opportunity to stay in school if they choose to regain eligibility for next year. I wouldn't count though on Smith being invited back.
So I guess Condotta knew what he was talking about.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
National Publications Seldom Get It
One of the things I have been reading over, and over about in national publications previewing the Huskies is the serious losses of DT/DE Mapuolesega, DT Hopoi, LB Benjamin, and LB, Lobendahn from last years defensive unit. I keep reading how hard it is to overcome those losses, and hit the floor laughing. This is no knock on those guys, but the talent behind them was better last year, and it is going to be even better this year. Benjamin is really the only guy you miss, and by early season someone will have assumed a grip on his position and his memory will fade.
Wilson Afoa earned a starting job at tackle outright last season. Teaming him with the rotation of Mateaki, JWF, Lobos, and Reffert is pretty good group. I just don't see any drop off inside.
On the outside Gunheim is another year older, stronger, and wiser. He will compete for Pac Ten honors in his true junior year. The question is who is going to flank him? Ala, Teo Nesheim, Winter, Rayford, Jones (probable redshirt), can Anthony Atkins make the adjustments neccesary or will he redshirt? I think that is the only question, and there is enough depth and experience there for someone to emerge. My bet is Teo Nesheim.
Bomar, or Tuiasosopo will be an upgrade over Lobendahn period because they can simply run. Lobo won't be missed on the field. Benjamin was good, and may stick in the NFL this year, but OLB is a position you can easily fill on this roster.
I think this defense is going to surprise a lot of people, especially the bulk of the publications who picked the Huskies last.
Wilson Afoa earned a starting job at tackle outright last season. Teaming him with the rotation of Mateaki, JWF, Lobos, and Reffert is pretty good group. I just don't see any drop off inside.
On the outside Gunheim is another year older, stronger, and wiser. He will compete for Pac Ten honors in his true junior year. The question is who is going to flank him? Ala, Teo Nesheim, Winter, Rayford, Jones (probable redshirt), can Anthony Atkins make the adjustments neccesary or will he redshirt? I think that is the only question, and there is enough depth and experience there for someone to emerge. My bet is Teo Nesheim.
Bomar, or Tuiasosopo will be an upgrade over Lobendahn period because they can simply run. Lobo won't be missed on the field. Benjamin was good, and may stick in the NFL this year, but OLB is a position you can easily fill on this roster.
I think this defense is going to surprise a lot of people, especially the bulk of the publications who picked the Huskies last.
Game Six USC....ouch
This is actually a rebuilding year at USC, perhaps reloading is more accurate. The Trojan's recruit pretty darn well. They now recruit nationally more than they ever have. The talent returning is ample for another run at the Pac Ten crown, and a BCS berth. Still they won't be at the level they were the past 3-4 years, at least not on paper going into the season.
It is good for conference prestige when USC is playing well. A healthy USC means a healthy conference. Still there are a few chinks beginning to appear in the armor. The off season was marred by serious off field problems. USC also graduated a lot of talent to the NFL last year and that will give a lot of young talent a chance to show what they can do. Carroll has been able to recruit almost anyone nationally he wants since he started winning, and SC will be able to plug the holes for this Fall and make it back to the BCS. They won't however be the automatic conference favorites with California, Arizona St, and Oregon making a challenge.
One significant set of numbers to remember about the Trojans going into 2007 is 48-4. That is their record over the past four years, pretty incredible. They know how to win, and don't ever count them out, they are currently the nations elite program.
John David Booty, and Mike Sanchez will battle it out this Fall for the QB position. Booty had the job going into Spring but suffered a back injury that required surgery. We saw what Booty could do last year in Husky stadium and we had his number, a definite fall off from Leinhart. Sanchez had a great Spring then ran into a date rape charge at the end of Spring. He was cleared, but it shows that the party continues down there, and that doesn't win championships.
At RB the Trojans will have a young stable ready to compete for one of the most glorified positions in football, USC Tailback. Chauncey Washington has the experience, but any number of young players such as Staffon Johnson could knock him off. Whoever runs the ball can rest assured that the hosses up front will be of the All American variety, Byers, Chacal, and Baker lead a talented, and deep group. Those names should sound familiar since UW actively recruited the same guys.
Jarrett is going to have to sit out a few games this year, but he should be back for this one. Don't feel sorry for the Trojans because they are just as deep as ever at WR with young talent. Calling the next phenom from the depth. What the Trojans lack in experience will be made up by depth and talent.
Defensively the Trojans were off last year, and it cost them the NC against Texas. Washington was even able to move the ball on them last year. The defensive of course is made up of mostly HS All Americans, so there is a lot talent there. The linebackers will their most impressive defensive unit coming into the season.
Why will USC Win?
Lots of talent and depth, a new top five class every year.
USC has superior talent at ever position.
One of the best offensive lines in football will give the inexperienced Trojan RB's a lot of room.
One of the best receiving corps in the nation will be able to score points against the Husky D.
Trojans will control the line of scrimmage giving them a shorter field all day long.
Pete Carroll is one of the nations best coaches.
The game is played in Los Angeles.
How can Washington win?
The Trojans would have to absolutely self destruct for Washington to win because of the wide gap in talent. It does happen from time to time.
Turnovers that result in Touchdowns. (See under self destruct)
The USC culture melt down continues during the season causing the Trojans to lose focus.
We owned Booty when he was put in the game last year. He didn't look special, and he even threw an interception. Leinhart was one of the best collegiate QB's ever, replacing him won't be easy. Whoever starts won't be near his level.
What do I think?
I don't think we are in these guys league. They are probably better than Oklahoma. I think they will end up in a BCS Bowl even if they don't win the conference. They could just as easily go undefeated again too.
This is the type of year where SC could lose to a few of the teams on their schedule. ND, Oregon, California, Arizona St. . I don't think UW makes the list.
UW be in it for awhile, but they are likely to be worn down by bigger, faster, and more talented athletes. I do think we can score on them, we scored 24 last year. I don't think there offense will be anything like it has been in past years. So we are in for a much closer game. I predict the Trojans put it way sometime in the 3rd quarter and win 37 -21.
USC 37 UW 21 (4-2)
It is good for conference prestige when USC is playing well. A healthy USC means a healthy conference. Still there are a few chinks beginning to appear in the armor. The off season was marred by serious off field problems. USC also graduated a lot of talent to the NFL last year and that will give a lot of young talent a chance to show what they can do. Carroll has been able to recruit almost anyone nationally he wants since he started winning, and SC will be able to plug the holes for this Fall and make it back to the BCS. They won't however be the automatic conference favorites with California, Arizona St, and Oregon making a challenge.
One significant set of numbers to remember about the Trojans going into 2007 is 48-4. That is their record over the past four years, pretty incredible. They know how to win, and don't ever count them out, they are currently the nations elite program.
John David Booty, and Mike Sanchez will battle it out this Fall for the QB position. Booty had the job going into Spring but suffered a back injury that required surgery. We saw what Booty could do last year in Husky stadium and we had his number, a definite fall off from Leinhart. Sanchez had a great Spring then ran into a date rape charge at the end of Spring. He was cleared, but it shows that the party continues down there, and that doesn't win championships.
At RB the Trojans will have a young stable ready to compete for one of the most glorified positions in football, USC Tailback. Chauncey Washington has the experience, but any number of young players such as Staffon Johnson could knock him off. Whoever runs the ball can rest assured that the hosses up front will be of the All American variety, Byers, Chacal, and Baker lead a talented, and deep group. Those names should sound familiar since UW actively recruited the same guys.
Jarrett is going to have to sit out a few games this year, but he should be back for this one. Don't feel sorry for the Trojans because they are just as deep as ever at WR with young talent. Calling the next phenom from the depth. What the Trojans lack in experience will be made up by depth and talent.
Defensively the Trojans were off last year, and it cost them the NC against Texas. Washington was even able to move the ball on them last year. The defensive of course is made up of mostly HS All Americans, so there is a lot talent there. The linebackers will their most impressive defensive unit coming into the season.
Why will USC Win?
Lots of talent and depth, a new top five class every year.
USC has superior talent at ever position.
One of the best offensive lines in football will give the inexperienced Trojan RB's a lot of room.
One of the best receiving corps in the nation will be able to score points against the Husky D.
Trojans will control the line of scrimmage giving them a shorter field all day long.
Pete Carroll is one of the nations best coaches.
The game is played in Los Angeles.
How can Washington win?
The Trojans would have to absolutely self destruct for Washington to win because of the wide gap in talent. It does happen from time to time.
Turnovers that result in Touchdowns. (See under self destruct)
The USC culture melt down continues during the season causing the Trojans to lose focus.
We owned Booty when he was put in the game last year. He didn't look special, and he even threw an interception. Leinhart was one of the best collegiate QB's ever, replacing him won't be easy. Whoever starts won't be near his level.
What do I think?
I don't think we are in these guys league. They are probably better than Oklahoma. I think they will end up in a BCS Bowl even if they don't win the conference. They could just as easily go undefeated again too.
This is the type of year where SC could lose to a few of the teams on their schedule. ND, Oregon, California, Arizona St. . I don't think UW makes the list.
UW be in it for awhile, but they are likely to be worn down by bigger, faster, and more talented athletes. I do think we can score on them, we scored 24 last year. I don't think there offense will be anything like it has been in past years. So we are in for a much closer game. I predict the Trojans put it way sometime in the 3rd quarter and win 37 -21.
USC 37 UW 21 (4-2)
Monday, July 24, 2006
Game Five Arizona
Last year we actually beat these guys handily on the road after IS threw the incredible pass to Chambers for a TD right before halftime. It was a gutsy suggestion byIS, and a great win for the Dawg's in the desert who ended their Pac Ten losing streak.
Arizona is a program on the rise who has been recruiting very well ever since Mike Stoops arrived on the scene. They had a breakthrough 29-27 win over OSU on the road, and an impressive 52-14 win over UCLA. It looked like the program was turning the corner than came mighty Washington who thumped them 38-14 at home. That was shocker!
This year we play on the road again as the Pac Ten tries to balance their schedule in the new era of the 12 game schedule. True Sophmore Willie Tuitama should develop into a pretty good QB before the end of the year. His main targets will be Mike Thomas, and Syndric Steptoe. At RB the Wildcats start over and could have some problems because of injuries and depth. UW will have a much better backfield, but Arizona has been building on heck of an offensive line that should be able to begin asserting itself. Daniel Borg who flirted with going to UW a few years ago is a rising star.
Defensively you could see all last year that they were building something special. They are deep all the way through and would have to rank among the best defenses in the conference going into 2006.
Arizona had the second best recruiting class in the Pac Ten on paper last year. Stoops seems to have the program headed in the right direction and it won't be long till they are bowling. Like Washington it is a work in progress, but Washington gets the nod in this one with an edge in experience at the skill positions. The Wildcats have to show me they can move the ball before I get excited about them.
Why Washington should win
We won here last year .
We have more experience in the skill positions.
We have better RB situation, even if Hasty sits out.
Our defense shut them down last year and is better this year.
Washington has the ability to score more points in a tight defensive struggle because Stanback can make plays.
Arizona hasn't proved that it can score enough points each week to win.
Why Arizona should win
They have more depth and talent.
They have a better offensive line.
They have one of the best defenses in the conference that is a year older.
Tuitama is ready to break out as a true sophmore and show the potential he displayed against OSU, and UCLA.
The weather in Arizona is still hot in late September making opponents wilt.
What do I think?
I think we match up well with these guys and we have a good chance for victory in the desert. Arizona had much better recruiting classes than us the last two years, but I think we have enough experience to get by them once again on their home turf.
The key as always is the UW OL, can they give IS and the skill guys the time to do their thing? If the OL has come along it is a realistic prediction that we will be 4-1 headed into play USC. Overly optimistic, perhaps, but all these games are winnable. We could have won at least six last year if the chips had fallen correctly, same thing with this season. We need to win the winnable games.
Washington 27 Arizona 17 (4-1)
Arizona is a program on the rise who has been recruiting very well ever since Mike Stoops arrived on the scene. They had a breakthrough 29-27 win over OSU on the road, and an impressive 52-14 win over UCLA. It looked like the program was turning the corner than came mighty Washington who thumped them 38-14 at home. That was shocker!
This year we play on the road again as the Pac Ten tries to balance their schedule in the new era of the 12 game schedule. True Sophmore Willie Tuitama should develop into a pretty good QB before the end of the year. His main targets will be Mike Thomas, and Syndric Steptoe. At RB the Wildcats start over and could have some problems because of injuries and depth. UW will have a much better backfield, but Arizona has been building on heck of an offensive line that should be able to begin asserting itself. Daniel Borg who flirted with going to UW a few years ago is a rising star.
Defensively you could see all last year that they were building something special. They are deep all the way through and would have to rank among the best defenses in the conference going into 2006.
Arizona had the second best recruiting class in the Pac Ten on paper last year. Stoops seems to have the program headed in the right direction and it won't be long till they are bowling. Like Washington it is a work in progress, but Washington gets the nod in this one with an edge in experience at the skill positions. The Wildcats have to show me they can move the ball before I get excited about them.
Why Washington should win
We won here last year .
We have more experience in the skill positions.
We have better RB situation, even if Hasty sits out.
Our defense shut them down last year and is better this year.
Washington has the ability to score more points in a tight defensive struggle because Stanback can make plays.
Arizona hasn't proved that it can score enough points each week to win.
Why Arizona should win
They have more depth and talent.
They have a better offensive line.
They have one of the best defenses in the conference that is a year older.
Tuitama is ready to break out as a true sophmore and show the potential he displayed against OSU, and UCLA.
The weather in Arizona is still hot in late September making opponents wilt.
What do I think?
I think we match up well with these guys and we have a good chance for victory in the desert. Arizona had much better recruiting classes than us the last two years, but I think we have enough experience to get by them once again on their home turf.
The key as always is the UW OL, can they give IS and the skill guys the time to do their thing? If the OL has come along it is a realistic prediction that we will be 4-1 headed into play USC. Overly optimistic, perhaps, but all these games are winnable. We could have won at least six last year if the chips had fallen correctly, same thing with this season. We need to win the winnable games.
Washington 27 Arizona 17 (4-1)
Turning around recruiting
What the University of Washington football program could really use is a large and talented in state class. I remember the year Joe Steele came in leading about every top prospect in the region into the program. It really set the tone for Don James in coming years, because we really pulled a lot of talent out of Puget Sound that year, maybe 15-16 kids if I am not mistaken. That 1976 class really helped us get to the 78 Rose Bowl. Blanchet contributed a huge amount of talent over a two year period, so did Garfield and the eastside schools. That was the last great year of competitve Metro football at the AAA level. It was all down hill after that. James had a rare opportunity, and Steele probably became the most valuable recruit in his era by staying home. James often said that this was the year that set the tone for the programs future.
More than anything Ty Willingham could use an in state class like that to kick start the program. This year with the help of some more "early graduation" UW could bring in the full 25. Unfortunately it seems to be just an average year for talent, and numbers in state. I am not a talent guru, all I know about recruiting is what I read over at DM.
Talent is still cyclical in the Northwest despite the increase in population. On average you have around a dozen true Pac Ten recruits in the state each year. Every once in a while you have a bumper crop, but usually you are looking at between 8-12 guys who are qualified to be Huskies each year. A few of those kids are going to go to WSU, and like the last few years you are going to lose a few out of state, but hopefully not as many as the last two years. Felder, Schilling, Mays, and Stewart were serious losses, but they are an aberation. I don't think Ty will lose on too many of those guys in the future, just like Romar is doing in basketball, it takes a little time.
This years instate recruiting class can't be described as a bumper crop. QB is the position that stands out with as many as four in state guys capable of earning a Pac Ten scholarship. It is a good year at TE with two guys instate, and one in BC who are Pac Ten capable.
The Offensive Line is obviously a major need, as many as three of the four scholarships available will be filled out of state. This isn't a great year for instate OL. UW has a lot of offers out, but all are out of state. Of course last year we waited till mid season to offer Habben and he ended up being the best lineman who committed on paper last year.
You can say the same thing about the skill positions of WR, and RB. There are a couple of Pac Ten capable players at those positions, but the Southern kids are rated much higher. Take RB, UW has offers out to ten guys right now from the Southland, but nobody in state. If you take a look at the Dawgman Prospect list we are in the lead for five of the guys we have offered who rate us as high.
On Defense there may be four or five guys that will get Pac Ten offers this year. Not a great year on the defensive line, or at LB, but UW already grabbed the top two DB's.
Right now Washington is doing well in state. We have verbals from the top TE Izbicki, the top OL Eweka, the top DB's Mc Dowell, and Richardson. We probably will also get QB Killsgaard, and, TE Paulson.
A few more guys will get offers by around the 3rd game of the season after the staff has had a chance to see them in game action. I wouldn't count us taking more than 6-10 local guys in a class of 25 this year. So the bulk of the incoming talent is going to come in from California which means no free windfall for Ty in state this year.
James used to get the best talent in the Northwest, just not in state. Oregon is an area he loved to plunder. With the resurgence of the two Oregon schools we have basically lost that area for the forseeable future, and it has also cost us a slice of SW Washington.
Hawaii is another place we lost at the end of Lambo's tenure. Jim pioneered mainland recruiting in that state. It isn't a secret anymore as school like Tennessee, and Nebraska are all over the Islands recruiting. UW still has a large number of Polynesian athletes, and expect a couple of guys from this years recruiting class to hail from the Aloha St.
The Bay Area is a recent UW casualty. The resurgence of Cal, a new stadium at Stanford, and the Oregon De Lasalle pipeline have cut off a key area where Washington recruited well in the past.
The Central Valley which extends from Sacramento to through Fresno is still a place where Washington does well, and the addition of Coach Williams should help out in this area, as well as the Bay.
We just haven't recruited inner LA well enough in recent years. Coach James used to tell stories about ducking under dining room tables when gunshots were fired in the street during recruiting visits.
Colorado, and Texas are areas that Coach Bob Simmons has spent a long time in. Don't be surprised to see a few more visits than usual from those area's as he puts those relationships to use.
We have done ok on the periphery out toward Diamond Bar, Antelope Valley, Riverside, and have grabbed more out of San Diego, but we need more guys out of places like Long Beach, Compton, and Orange County. Coach Yarber is starting to turn that all around for us. We finished second on a lot of good athletes last year we had no business talking to, and that was all Yarber.
We have been more active in Nevada as the population increases in that state. We should get at least one guy out of Nevada, maybe two. Reno seems to be an overlooked area, we picked up an overlooked gem in Kosub last year during the last few weeks. Tormey should be able to get a few more gems from his eperience in that state.
This is going to be an interesting recruiting year with the bulk of the recruits coming from out of state. I think Ty is off to a good start, but he is going to need the extra push of visible improvement out on the field to put him over the top. Washington has some great recruiters on their staff, if we can make a push towards .500, Ty should be able to convince enough out of state talent that Washington is on the rise, and early playing time is a reasonable goal. I always figured it would take Ty four to five years to pull it back together, and we are only beginning half way through year two, so this years recruiting class is crucial to staying on track.
More than anything Ty Willingham could use an in state class like that to kick start the program. This year with the help of some more "early graduation" UW could bring in the full 25. Unfortunately it seems to be just an average year for talent, and numbers in state. I am not a talent guru, all I know about recruiting is what I read over at DM.
Talent is still cyclical in the Northwest despite the increase in population. On average you have around a dozen true Pac Ten recruits in the state each year. Every once in a while you have a bumper crop, but usually you are looking at between 8-12 guys who are qualified to be Huskies each year. A few of those kids are going to go to WSU, and like the last few years you are going to lose a few out of state, but hopefully not as many as the last two years. Felder, Schilling, Mays, and Stewart were serious losses, but they are an aberation. I don't think Ty will lose on too many of those guys in the future, just like Romar is doing in basketball, it takes a little time.
This years instate recruiting class can't be described as a bumper crop. QB is the position that stands out with as many as four in state guys capable of earning a Pac Ten scholarship. It is a good year at TE with two guys instate, and one in BC who are Pac Ten capable.
The Offensive Line is obviously a major need, as many as three of the four scholarships available will be filled out of state. This isn't a great year for instate OL. UW has a lot of offers out, but all are out of state. Of course last year we waited till mid season to offer Habben and he ended up being the best lineman who committed on paper last year.
You can say the same thing about the skill positions of WR, and RB. There are a couple of Pac Ten capable players at those positions, but the Southern kids are rated much higher. Take RB, UW has offers out to ten guys right now from the Southland, but nobody in state. If you take a look at the Dawgman Prospect list we are in the lead for five of the guys we have offered who rate us as high.
On Defense there may be four or five guys that will get Pac Ten offers this year. Not a great year on the defensive line, or at LB, but UW already grabbed the top two DB's.
Right now Washington is doing well in state. We have verbals from the top TE Izbicki, the top OL Eweka, the top DB's Mc Dowell, and Richardson. We probably will also get QB Killsgaard, and, TE Paulson.
A few more guys will get offers by around the 3rd game of the season after the staff has had a chance to see them in game action. I wouldn't count us taking more than 6-10 local guys in a class of 25 this year. So the bulk of the incoming talent is going to come in from California which means no free windfall for Ty in state this year.
James used to get the best talent in the Northwest, just not in state. Oregon is an area he loved to plunder. With the resurgence of the two Oregon schools we have basically lost that area for the forseeable future, and it has also cost us a slice of SW Washington.
Hawaii is another place we lost at the end of Lambo's tenure. Jim pioneered mainland recruiting in that state. It isn't a secret anymore as school like Tennessee, and Nebraska are all over the Islands recruiting. UW still has a large number of Polynesian athletes, and expect a couple of guys from this years recruiting class to hail from the Aloha St.
The Bay Area is a recent UW casualty. The resurgence of Cal, a new stadium at Stanford, and the Oregon De Lasalle pipeline have cut off a key area where Washington recruited well in the past.
The Central Valley which extends from Sacramento to through Fresno is still a place where Washington does well, and the addition of Coach Williams should help out in this area, as well as the Bay.
We just haven't recruited inner LA well enough in recent years. Coach James used to tell stories about ducking under dining room tables when gunshots were fired in the street during recruiting visits.
Colorado, and Texas are areas that Coach Bob Simmons has spent a long time in. Don't be surprised to see a few more visits than usual from those area's as he puts those relationships to use.
We have done ok on the periphery out toward Diamond Bar, Antelope Valley, Riverside, and have grabbed more out of San Diego, but we need more guys out of places like Long Beach, Compton, and Orange County. Coach Yarber is starting to turn that all around for us. We finished second on a lot of good athletes last year we had no business talking to, and that was all Yarber.
We have been more active in Nevada as the population increases in that state. We should get at least one guy out of Nevada, maybe two. Reno seems to be an overlooked area, we picked up an overlooked gem in Kosub last year during the last few weeks. Tormey should be able to get a few more gems from his eperience in that state.
This is going to be an interesting recruiting year with the bulk of the recruits coming from out of state. I think Ty is off to a good start, but he is going to need the extra push of visible improvement out on the field to put him over the top. Washington has some great recruiters on their staff, if we can make a push towards .500, Ty should be able to convince enough out of state talent that Washington is on the rise, and early playing time is a reasonable goal. I always figured it would take Ty four to five years to pull it back together, and we are only beginning half way through year two, so this years recruiting class is crucial to staying on track.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Game Four UCLA
If there has been one team that has been a thorn in the side to the UW over the past few years it has been the UCLA Bruins. UCLA always finds a way to pull out an improbable victory against Washington exactly the moment the Huskies feel they have the game in hand. Despite the disparity in talent Washington has been able to give the Bruins everything they could handle the last few years too.
This year should be different.
Coach Dorrell cleaned house with his staff last season despite having a 10-2 record, and flirting with a BCS bid. He wants to upgrade the defense which was one of the worst in the conference last year despite the glittery record.
The Bruins have talent as always, being located in Los Angeles, but this years team is definitely a rebuilding effort. Drew Olsen, Mercedes Lewis, and Maurice Drew have all moved on. The Offense will be led by Ben Olsen the transfer from BYU who hasn't played in a game for five years. The Bruins will be doing a casting call for RB's and should be able to assemble a credible stable to run the ball led by Jr. Chris Markey. On the offensive line, the Bruins will be solid bolstered by excellent recruiting classes over the past three years.
Defensively the Bruins go into 2006 a little shaky on the DL hoping that a couple of key players can return from injury and stay healthy. At the LB spot they are going to be very young led by Eric Mc Neal who has moved up from Safety. The defensive backfield will be similar in talent to last year and a work in progress as the season starts.
Fixing the UCLA defense will take a few more years despite the coaching changes.
Talking about coaching changes the notoriously cheap Bruins just upped the ante by almost doubling their assistant coaches salaries, and also gave Dorrell a five year extension with a bump that puts him at the same level as Willingham at aroung 1.4 million a year.
I liked Dorrell when he was the OC at Washington, and you could see a significant falloff when he moved to Denver and Gilby was elevated. Bottom line is Dorrell is a solid young coach who will keep improving. His new contract will allow him to do that.
Why Washington should win?
Washington has a much better defense on paper going into 2006.
Washington should be able to score on the Bruin defense.
Washington has confidence they can play with these guys.
The UCLA staff went through a major off season shuffle.
The game is in Husky Stadium
Washington has more experience at the skill positions.
UCLA lacks a deep threat.
Why UCLA should win
UCLA always finds a way to snatch victory from defeat against Washington.
The Bruins have a superior OL on paper compared to the UW OL which will allow them to control the ball more. If they can control the line of scrimmage UCLA will score points.
UCLA will be able to run the ball on Washington.
The Bruins have more overall depth and talent.
What do I think?
I think Washington wins because they are overdue against these guys. The team knows we should have beaten them last year, and they know they can play with these guys. I think Ben Olsen is going to be a pretty good QB, and he is going to have time behind his offensive line this year, I just don't think his team will do enough to win against an improved Husky defense.
I think offensively we will be able to move the ball like we did last year on these guys. You can bet there will be some fireworks out there as both teams try to stretch the field. UCLA found a way to win last year almost every week just like Washington's last Rose Bowl team. Somehow the wheels came off against Arizona, and USC last year, but they rebounded against Northwestern with a point orgy in the Sun Bowl.
The game will end up being a higher scoring affair, but Washington will score more points, and end the curse.
UW 34 - UCLA 27 (3-1)
This year should be different.
Coach Dorrell cleaned house with his staff last season despite having a 10-2 record, and flirting with a BCS bid. He wants to upgrade the defense which was one of the worst in the conference last year despite the glittery record.
The Bruins have talent as always, being located in Los Angeles, but this years team is definitely a rebuilding effort. Drew Olsen, Mercedes Lewis, and Maurice Drew have all moved on. The Offense will be led by Ben Olsen the transfer from BYU who hasn't played in a game for five years. The Bruins will be doing a casting call for RB's and should be able to assemble a credible stable to run the ball led by Jr. Chris Markey. On the offensive line, the Bruins will be solid bolstered by excellent recruiting classes over the past three years.
Defensively the Bruins go into 2006 a little shaky on the DL hoping that a couple of key players can return from injury and stay healthy. At the LB spot they are going to be very young led by Eric Mc Neal who has moved up from Safety. The defensive backfield will be similar in talent to last year and a work in progress as the season starts.
Fixing the UCLA defense will take a few more years despite the coaching changes.
Talking about coaching changes the notoriously cheap Bruins just upped the ante by almost doubling their assistant coaches salaries, and also gave Dorrell a five year extension with a bump that puts him at the same level as Willingham at aroung 1.4 million a year.
I liked Dorrell when he was the OC at Washington, and you could see a significant falloff when he moved to Denver and Gilby was elevated. Bottom line is Dorrell is a solid young coach who will keep improving. His new contract will allow him to do that.
Why Washington should win?
Washington has a much better defense on paper going into 2006.
Washington should be able to score on the Bruin defense.
Washington has confidence they can play with these guys.
The UCLA staff went through a major off season shuffle.
The game is in Husky Stadium
Washington has more experience at the skill positions.
UCLA lacks a deep threat.
Why UCLA should win
UCLA always finds a way to snatch victory from defeat against Washington.
The Bruins have a superior OL on paper compared to the UW OL which will allow them to control the ball more. If they can control the line of scrimmage UCLA will score points.
UCLA will be able to run the ball on Washington.
The Bruins have more overall depth and talent.
What do I think?
I think Washington wins because they are overdue against these guys. The team knows we should have beaten them last year, and they know they can play with these guys. I think Ben Olsen is going to be a pretty good QB, and he is going to have time behind his offensive line this year, I just don't think his team will do enough to win against an improved Husky defense.
I think offensively we will be able to move the ball like we did last year on these guys. You can bet there will be some fireworks out there as both teams try to stretch the field. UCLA found a way to win last year almost every week just like Washington's last Rose Bowl team. Somehow the wheels came off against Arizona, and USC last year, but they rebounded against Northwestern with a point orgy in the Sun Bowl.
The game will end up being a higher scoring affair, but Washington will score more points, and end the curse.
UW 34 - UCLA 27 (3-1)
Saturday, July 22, 2006
A couple of land mines to avoid
Washington football has a few achilles heals going into the 2006 season. Like last season the team will have a chance at a .500 record if they can find a way to win in the 4th quarter. Like last season there are painfully shallow positions that could cause season long problems if injuries or attrition occur. I am a firm believer if Washington had gotten the JC CB's in school last year we would have won 2-3 more games. That statement isn't a testimony to their talent, just that the depth they would have provided that was severly missed.
The first trouble spot is running back. James Hasty most likely will spend the Fall in the wood shed getting his grades back in order. He isn't the first player to run into this problem, but his absense reduces depth at two positions that can't afford it, CB, and TB.
Shelton Sampson will prove to be an able replacement in the RB rotation, but Hasty will be missed. There is a domino effect here because UW failed to bring in a true frosh RB.
Sampson with his speed was certain to make the rotation at CB this year, with his absense that means we go into the year with only five CB's. I think Mosley will be moved over to CB rather than ply his trade at TB. The Domino effect could continue with Harris, or Wells moving over from safety to add depth.
We are talking about the possible loss of only one player, and because of a lack of depth it could cause positions shifts involving half a dozen players. You hate to see that, but not bringing in a RB last year puts us in this position. I doubt that Ty put's all his bread in one basket again.
The offensive line is a similar powder keg waiting to explode. The interior is anchored by three very solid linemen, Garcia, Walker, and Daniels. Losing any of those three would be very damaging because there is no experienced depth behind them, especially at Center where a walkon true frosh will provide back up. Kava (back after taking two years off), Bulyca, and Bush are all big question marks going into the year ability wise, so you would hate to see them pushed into the starters position. You do however need one of those guys, most likely Bulyca, to make the rotation. Flowers who is listed at tackle will be a utility guy playing all over and where needed each game. So you figure a rotation of Garcia, Walker, Daniels, Flowers, and either Bulyca, Kava, or Bush. (Most likely Bulyca). Garcia, and Walker are Center #1, and #2.
The major percieved weakness is out at tackle where Macklin, Ossai, and Flowers will share time. Behind them are Mason (needs a redhirt year), Berglund (back after taking two years off), and Roseborough (needs another year of work), plus two Frosh Tolar, and Habben who are probably not ready to play yet. I think you will see Roseborough in limited action this year, and you will like what you see till he runs out of breath.
A lot of people threw up their arms when JWF was moved over here, then some rubbed their heads questioning why he got moved back. I can guess that he didn't like the move and specifically asked to move back to defense. I wouldn't be suprised to see him back on offense at some point especially if injuries take their tool. The loss of Jefferson out here is major. JWF could be an impact OT, but it doesn't happen over night.
If Washington can dodge bullets in the offensive line, and at running back we might be bowling this year, but as you can see, the absence of just one player can effect the entire team even if he is third in the RB rotation. UW can't afford injuries.
Lack of depth can kill, and just a few more surprises can destroy a team living on the edge of depth, and talent.
The first trouble spot is running back. James Hasty most likely will spend the Fall in the wood shed getting his grades back in order. He isn't the first player to run into this problem, but his absense reduces depth at two positions that can't afford it, CB, and TB.
Shelton Sampson will prove to be an able replacement in the RB rotation, but Hasty will be missed. There is a domino effect here because UW failed to bring in a true frosh RB.
Sampson with his speed was certain to make the rotation at CB this year, with his absense that means we go into the year with only five CB's. I think Mosley will be moved over to CB rather than ply his trade at TB. The Domino effect could continue with Harris, or Wells moving over from safety to add depth.
We are talking about the possible loss of only one player, and because of a lack of depth it could cause positions shifts involving half a dozen players. You hate to see that, but not bringing in a RB last year puts us in this position. I doubt that Ty put's all his bread in one basket again.
The offensive line is a similar powder keg waiting to explode. The interior is anchored by three very solid linemen, Garcia, Walker, and Daniels. Losing any of those three would be very damaging because there is no experienced depth behind them, especially at Center where a walkon true frosh will provide back up. Kava (back after taking two years off), Bulyca, and Bush are all big question marks going into the year ability wise, so you would hate to see them pushed into the starters position. You do however need one of those guys, most likely Bulyca, to make the rotation. Flowers who is listed at tackle will be a utility guy playing all over and where needed each game. So you figure a rotation of Garcia, Walker, Daniels, Flowers, and either Bulyca, Kava, or Bush. (Most likely Bulyca). Garcia, and Walker are Center #1, and #2.
The major percieved weakness is out at tackle where Macklin, Ossai, and Flowers will share time. Behind them are Mason (needs a redhirt year), Berglund (back after taking two years off), and Roseborough (needs another year of work), plus two Frosh Tolar, and Habben who are probably not ready to play yet. I think you will see Roseborough in limited action this year, and you will like what you see till he runs out of breath.
A lot of people threw up their arms when JWF was moved over here, then some rubbed their heads questioning why he got moved back. I can guess that he didn't like the move and specifically asked to move back to defense. I wouldn't be suprised to see him back on offense at some point especially if injuries take their tool. The loss of Jefferson out here is major. JWF could be an impact OT, but it doesn't happen over night.
If Washington can dodge bullets in the offensive line, and at running back we might be bowling this year, but as you can see, the absence of just one player can effect the entire team even if he is third in the RB rotation. UW can't afford injuries.
Lack of depth can kill, and just a few more surprises can destroy a team living on the edge of depth, and talent.
Friday, July 21, 2006
Very bad news
James Hasty may be ineligible.
Shelton Sampson returning may turn out to be a big deal, they are moving him back to TB.
Coming out of the Spring Hasty was a soild #3 behind James, and Rankin which it should be since they are upper classmen with a lot of experience. There was a concern that Hasty had put on too much weight and lost some speed in the process. This loss hurts the depth more than anything, and with only three RB's on the roster it could be serious if injuries pop up as they always do.
The best RB Washington had at the end of the year was actually a guy who started out as a Safety, and was moved to FB, James Sims. That tells you a lot about the durability of Rankin, and James.
Mosley, Meyers, and maybe even Butler will get a shot at TB this Fall to help bolster the depth, but all three are better suited at other positions. Putting them at TB for a year hinders their growth.
Shelton Sampson returning may turn out to be a big deal, they are moving him back to TB.
Coming out of the Spring Hasty was a soild #3 behind James, and Rankin which it should be since they are upper classmen with a lot of experience. There was a concern that Hasty had put on too much weight and lost some speed in the process. This loss hurts the depth more than anything, and with only three RB's on the roster it could be serious if injuries pop up as they always do.
The best RB Washington had at the end of the year was actually a guy who started out as a Safety, and was moved to FB, James Sims. That tells you a lot about the durability of Rankin, and James.
Mosley, Meyers, and maybe even Butler will get a shot at TB this Fall to help bolster the depth, but all three are better suited at other positions. Putting them at TB for a year hinders their growth.
Football Stadiums I have visited
I have always had a little wanderlust, maybe that is the reason I have been gone from Seattle for the past 16 years. I never thought I would leave the Northwest, but as opportunites, and technology expanded I have been able to keep in touch enough each day to not get to homesick.
People often ask me on the Dawgman board how many games I get to see a year, and I usually average around five, but the last two years like many I haven't been going as much. The last two years I have only been to two games which is an all time low since I left town. the team was so bad under Gilby that it was tough to watch.
Traditionally I always take in the Oregon game at home, or on the road. I have been going with the same guys, a mix of UO, and UW graduates for over 25 years. It does seem that I have been spending too much time in Autzen, it seems we play on the road there every year. Duck fans are as bas as advertised, and every game there is always an incident. I do love the Stadium, but it isn't as intimidating as the old Autzen.
I like games at Oregon State, the fans are a lot better behaved, and the new Reser isn't a bad place to watch a game. The old Parker was a joke, have seen better looking HS stadiums. I like to tailgate over by the river by the stadium.
I love California because the fans are nice, and the stadium is an ancient wonder. It is going to redone in the next couple of years and it will be among the best venues in the country when they are through. The stadium is a mini version of the Rose Bowl. Stay in Union Square and take the BART.
I have taken in a few games at the Rose Bowl to watch us play UCLA, and of course Big Ten opponents, and I love everything about the place. I hope they don't NFL it in the future and it just stays the same. UCLA fans are friendy.
The Coliseum is in the middle of a dicey neighborhood as we all know. It isn't a great stadium, the fans are classy. A trip to LA is always good because there is just so much to do down there.
Arizona St is one of my favorites, I like the fact that you can always arrive and buy tickets on the fifty near the top of the stadium for almost any game. I love Scottsdale, and the golf that comes with it.
I haven't been in Arizona's stadium even though I have made the trip twice. Ended up playing golf, not making the drive, and watching it on TV.
The new Stanford Stadium has me intrigued, the old place was falling apart. The campus is out of this world to walk through.
I have been to Aloha Stadium in Hawaii and it is a nice venue to watch a game. There is nothing wrong with being in Hawaii.
I have been to Notre Dame twice, and really enjoyed the experience, but of course not the games because the Huskies didn't show up either time.
Nebraska of course has the best fans, they beat you with kindness. Memorial Stadium is what you expect, but it isn't exactly a pretty state.
The Big House in Michigan is huge, and it is really congested. They have good site lines despite the enormous size. The fans are great, and it is an easy drive from Chicago.
Tennessee is a must see kind of place perched overlooking a big river, many people come by boat. The view is gone because they have built so many seats.
I liked the facilites at Ohio State, but the fans left a lot to be desired, same with the outcome.
Miami was a nightmare from a fan safety perspective. South Florida is humid cess pool anyway. The Stadium of course has some nice history, but it's ancient....I don't see us playing down there for awhile.
Vanderbilt is a little jewel, very fun to watch a game then head to Rotiers for a cheeseburger in paradise. Nashville is a fun town to hang in for a weekend.
I have been to two games in Boulder, Colorado and just loved it. Boulder is a great town.
Air Force Academy has a large stadium which has a great view of the Rockies.
If you are ever in Missoula Montana on game day a Grizzly game is a lot of fun, have done that once and enjoyed it. Missoula is a fun town.
The MetroDome in Minneapolis is the worst place I have ever been to watch a football, or baseball game. The lighting is so dim it puts you to sleep. UM is building a new 50,000 seat stadium on campus.
I see a couple of games at Northwestern each year and enjoy the remodeled facility. The fans of course are nice, and you are pretty close to the field.
Purdue, Indiana, Michigan St, and Wisconsin are also within easy driving range of Chicago, but I haven't made it to a game at one of those places yet. I think we still have Indiana on the schedule in a couple of years.
I have seen five Packers game at Lambeau in Green Bay. The stadium remodel is just great, and the atmosphere is by far the best in pro football. I went before they remodeled and loved it to. They didn't ruin it when they redid it.
The new Soldier Field is sterile, and corporate, you aren't missing much here. I did go to a Stones Concert before they remodeled and I liked it a lot.
My fiance attended Boston College so we will head back to Chestnut Hill to take in a game one fall and drive through New England watching the leaves turn.
People often ask me on the Dawgman board how many games I get to see a year, and I usually average around five, but the last two years like many I haven't been going as much. The last two years I have only been to two games which is an all time low since I left town. the team was so bad under Gilby that it was tough to watch.
Traditionally I always take in the Oregon game at home, or on the road. I have been going with the same guys, a mix of UO, and UW graduates for over 25 years. It does seem that I have been spending too much time in Autzen, it seems we play on the road there every year. Duck fans are as bas as advertised, and every game there is always an incident. I do love the Stadium, but it isn't as intimidating as the old Autzen.
I like games at Oregon State, the fans are a lot better behaved, and the new Reser isn't a bad place to watch a game. The old Parker was a joke, have seen better looking HS stadiums. I like to tailgate over by the river by the stadium.
I love California because the fans are nice, and the stadium is an ancient wonder. It is going to redone in the next couple of years and it will be among the best venues in the country when they are through. The stadium is a mini version of the Rose Bowl. Stay in Union Square and take the BART.
I have taken in a few games at the Rose Bowl to watch us play UCLA, and of course Big Ten opponents, and I love everything about the place. I hope they don't NFL it in the future and it just stays the same. UCLA fans are friendy.
The Coliseum is in the middle of a dicey neighborhood as we all know. It isn't a great stadium, the fans are classy. A trip to LA is always good because there is just so much to do down there.
Arizona St is one of my favorites, I like the fact that you can always arrive and buy tickets on the fifty near the top of the stadium for almost any game. I love Scottsdale, and the golf that comes with it.
I haven't been in Arizona's stadium even though I have made the trip twice. Ended up playing golf, not making the drive, and watching it on TV.
The new Stanford Stadium has me intrigued, the old place was falling apart. The campus is out of this world to walk through.
I have been to Aloha Stadium in Hawaii and it is a nice venue to watch a game. There is nothing wrong with being in Hawaii.
I have been to Notre Dame twice, and really enjoyed the experience, but of course not the games because the Huskies didn't show up either time.
Nebraska of course has the best fans, they beat you with kindness. Memorial Stadium is what you expect, but it isn't exactly a pretty state.
The Big House in Michigan is huge, and it is really congested. They have good site lines despite the enormous size. The fans are great, and it is an easy drive from Chicago.
Tennessee is a must see kind of place perched overlooking a big river, many people come by boat. The view is gone because they have built so many seats.
I liked the facilites at Ohio State, but the fans left a lot to be desired, same with the outcome.
Miami was a nightmare from a fan safety perspective. South Florida is humid cess pool anyway. The Stadium of course has some nice history, but it's ancient....I don't see us playing down there for awhile.
Vanderbilt is a little jewel, very fun to watch a game then head to Rotiers for a cheeseburger in paradise. Nashville is a fun town to hang in for a weekend.
I have been to two games in Boulder, Colorado and just loved it. Boulder is a great town.
Air Force Academy has a large stadium which has a great view of the Rockies.
If you are ever in Missoula Montana on game day a Grizzly game is a lot of fun, have done that once and enjoyed it. Missoula is a fun town.
The MetroDome in Minneapolis is the worst place I have ever been to watch a football, or baseball game. The lighting is so dim it puts you to sleep. UM is building a new 50,000 seat stadium on campus.
I see a couple of games at Northwestern each year and enjoy the remodeled facility. The fans of course are nice, and you are pretty close to the field.
Purdue, Indiana, Michigan St, and Wisconsin are also within easy driving range of Chicago, but I haven't made it to a game at one of those places yet. I think we still have Indiana on the schedule in a couple of years.
I have seen five Packers game at Lambeau in Green Bay. The stadium remodel is just great, and the atmosphere is by far the best in pro football. I went before they remodeled and loved it to. They didn't ruin it when they redid it.
The new Soldier Field is sterile, and corporate, you aren't missing much here. I did go to a Stones Concert before they remodeled and I liked it a lot.
My fiance attended Boston College so we will head back to Chestnut Hill to take in a game one fall and drive through New England watching the leaves turn.
Game Three Fresno State
Fresno State comes to Seattle for the Huskies third game of the year. The Bulldogs are always tough, and Pat Hill will have them up to the task of beating a Pac Ten opponent. This is one of those games Washington has to win to get to a bowl in 2006.
Fresno as usual will field a competitive team that is more than capable of playing with most Pac Ten opponent's. Who can forget last years game with USC that almost knocked the Trojans out of the national championship game? These guys aren't Oklahoma, but they can play up to the level of most opponents.
This years Fresno squad will be led by an inexperienced QB who will be picked once practice starts in August. Expect the young QB to be having some growing pains early in the year.
Dwayne Wright return from a year off due to a knee injury to run the ball. WR Paul Williams is the primary big play threat and has really good size.
Offensively the Bulldogs are going to be green, and have some question marks so that is going to give the Husky defense the opportunity to shine at home.
On defense the Bulldogs also lack experience going into 2006 after graduating excellent talent. This isn't going to be Fresno's year to make a drive for a BCS bid, but they should be one of the top three teams in the WAC.
Washington should beat Fresno St
Washington should be able to beat these guys at home, just like we should have beaten Air Force last year. This is a game that will probably be decided in the 4th quarter.
You have to give the advantage on offense to UW being who is being led by a senior QB. In addition to that UW has a lot more experience at the skill positions. The OL of course needs to make time for the skill players.
Defensively we should be able to control the line of scrimmage. Holding on to the ball of course is crucial in games like this, t/o margin often rests with the victor. Look for Kenny James, and Louis Rankin to get their yards against the Bulldogs. IS will get a lot more time to throw against the FSU defense, look for him to have a big game in Husky Stadium.
This is the type of game Ty needs to win to start building a little excitement in Seattle. Fresno has built a strong program, but this years team won't be one of their best. Washington should win. A victory here will be a major springboard leading into the conference season with UCLA, and Arizona up next. This is a three game string of winnable games, if Washington wants to go bowling it all starts here.
Washington 31 Fresno State 24 (2-1)
Fresno as usual will field a competitive team that is more than capable of playing with most Pac Ten opponent's. Who can forget last years game with USC that almost knocked the Trojans out of the national championship game? These guys aren't Oklahoma, but they can play up to the level of most opponents.
This years Fresno squad will be led by an inexperienced QB who will be picked once practice starts in August. Expect the young QB to be having some growing pains early in the year.
Dwayne Wright return from a year off due to a knee injury to run the ball. WR Paul Williams is the primary big play threat and has really good size.
Offensively the Bulldogs are going to be green, and have some question marks so that is going to give the Husky defense the opportunity to shine at home.
On defense the Bulldogs also lack experience going into 2006 after graduating excellent talent. This isn't going to be Fresno's year to make a drive for a BCS bid, but they should be one of the top three teams in the WAC.
Washington should beat Fresno St
Washington should be able to beat these guys at home, just like we should have beaten Air Force last year. This is a game that will probably be decided in the 4th quarter.
You have to give the advantage on offense to UW being who is being led by a senior QB. In addition to that UW has a lot more experience at the skill positions. The OL of course needs to make time for the skill players.
Defensively we should be able to control the line of scrimmage. Holding on to the ball of course is crucial in games like this, t/o margin often rests with the victor. Look for Kenny James, and Louis Rankin to get their yards against the Bulldogs. IS will get a lot more time to throw against the FSU defense, look for him to have a big game in Husky Stadium.
This is the type of game Ty needs to win to start building a little excitement in Seattle. Fresno has built a strong program, but this years team won't be one of their best. Washington should win. A victory here will be a major springboard leading into the conference season with UCLA, and Arizona up next. This is a three game string of winnable games, if Washington wants to go bowling it all starts here.
Washington 31 Fresno State 24 (2-1)
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