VS.
GAME INFO: Fri., Dec 14, 2007 - 7:05 CST - Carver Hawkeye Arena; Iowa City, IA
IOWA (6-5) / Drake (8-1)
Not much in-depth analysis here.
If Tony Freeman plays 20 min, Iowa wins. If he doesn't, Iowa loses.
Drake will press and Tony will be the key.
Prediction: IOWA 64, DRAKE 57
Friday, December 14, 2007
Kirk Ferentz's House Was Egged Last Night
I just received an e-mail from a very reliable source this morning that Kirk Ferentz's house was vandalized last night. Read below for the details.
IOWA CITY, IOWA - Iowa City Police found an empty carton of eggs outside Iowa Coach Kirk Ferentz's house this morning. Two of the eggs had hit the house. Three were apparently dropped retrieving them from the carton. Four were thrown over the house and landed in the back yard, while a couple hit houses on either side of the Ferentz house.
Jake Christensen is being questioned in the incident.
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Men's BB: Iowa vs. ISU Prediction
VS.
GAME INFO: Sat., Dec 8, 2007 - 1:05 CST - Hilton Coliseum, Ames, IA
IOWA (6-4) / UNI (3-4)
Jeff Peterson will be back in the starting lineup for this game. Tony Freeman looked terrific in his action off the bench versus UNI. He is still hurting quite a bit, but Iowa can use him at 50% health. Bohall is still suspended. Iowa looks to actually be the team with more talent on the floor. As hard as that is to believe. Iowa's froshes are playing terrific. Jake Kelly is getting more comfortable in system, Jarryd Cole is working hard down low, and Jeff Peterson is still running the point effectively. Iowa has the better backcourt, ISU is a little better down low.
Taking a look at "like opponents" between the teams:
ISU's RPI: 105
IOWA's RPI: 224
ISU has lost 4 out of the last 5. Iowa started season winning its first 4, then losing its next 4, followed by winning 2 in a row coming into this game.
My heart wants to say Iowa wins by 8 points. I really think this team has what it takes to knock down the Clones in Hilton. Tony Freeman is the biggest reason behind this though - if he can play Iowa will win this game. If he can't because of the injury, it's ISU's game to lose. That said, my official prediction won't be on par to what I want to be typing.
ISU - 63 Iowa - 58
ISU just finds ways to beat Iowa at home whether it be basketball or football. It just happens.
* UPDATE: I am ok with my prediction now that Tony Freeman is in street clothes for this game. I think Iowa has a shot at taking them down, it will be a close game. ON IOWA!
GAME INFO: Sat., Dec 8, 2007 - 1:05 CST - Hilton Coliseum, Ames, IA
IOWA (6-4) / UNI (3-4)
Jeff Peterson will be back in the starting lineup for this game. Tony Freeman looked terrific in his action off the bench versus UNI. He is still hurting quite a bit, but Iowa can use him at 50% health. Bohall is still suspended. Iowa looks to actually be the team with more talent on the floor. As hard as that is to believe. Iowa's froshes are playing terrific. Jake Kelly is getting more comfortable in system, Jarryd Cole is working hard down low, and Jeff Peterson is still running the point effectively. Iowa has the better backcourt, ISU is a little better down low.
Taking a look at "like opponents" between the teams:
- Both teams lost to Bradley by about the same margin.
- ISU lost to UNI at home by 13, while Iowa beat UNI on the road by 7.
- Iowa will play Drake next week, a team that beat ISU by 35 points earlier this week.
ISU's RPI: 105
IOWA's RPI: 224
ISU has lost 4 out of the last 5. Iowa started season winning its first 4, then losing its next 4, followed by winning 2 in a row coming into this game.
My heart wants to say Iowa wins by 8 points. I really think this team has what it takes to knock down the Clones in Hilton. Tony Freeman is the biggest reason behind this though - if he can play Iowa will win this game. If he can't because of the injury, it's ISU's game to lose. That said, my official prediction won't be on par to what I want to be typing.
ISU - 63 Iowa - 58
ISU just finds ways to beat Iowa at home whether it be basketball or football. It just happens.
* UPDATE: I am ok with my prediction now that Tony Freeman is in street clothes for this game. I think Iowa has a shot at taking them down, it will be a close game. ON IOWA!
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Men's BB: Well, it's official. I don't know crap about basketball
Going into the UNI - Iowa game, you'd have to be the world's biggest homer or a complete and total moron to take Iowa over UNI. Well, it happened. Iowa went into Cedar Falls as a double-digit underdog and took down the Panthers via a SUPREME gameplan by Coach Lickliter and terrific execution by the players. Iowa was able to withstand some awful calls in favor of Coleman down the stretch. It seemed like any time an Iowa player breathed on him, there was a foul called. Great job by this Iowa bunch. Best game of the year by both Seth Gorney and Jake Kelly. Tony Freeman came back and instantly made everyone around him better.
What a fun game to watch!
What a fun game to watch!
OT: Support the Salvation Army - DONATE TO MY KETTLE
Ok, so I made a blog entry earlier today in regards to The Salvation Army accepting VISA. Well, turns out you can donate online. While this doesn't help my problem when faced with a bell ringer, it does allow me to donate via plastic.
So why do you help out too? Go to my online kettle and donate: CLICK HERE TO DONATE
Something as little as $5 can help out in a big way.
Something as little as $5 can help out in a big way.
OT: How Long Until the Salvation Army Bell Ringers Accept VISA?
The Salvation Army has been raising funds at the local and regional level for ages. The Red Kettles can be seen towards the end of each year at many stores across your area. The volunteers ring the bell in sub-degree temps (well, at least where I live) to help those in need.
Here's the conundrum. I don't carry cash. Really, I don't. I rarely, if ever, have any sort of currency in form of bill or coin. As I exit a business and see a red kettle with a person ringing the bell, I feel like I should give them some money. Except, WHOOPS, I don't have anything on me!
So just HOW LONG is it until the Salvation Army accepts VISA? Haven't they seen the commercials? Life takes Visa. Ring away good bell ringers, but please don't scoff at me because I do not give. I am a slave to VISA and its cashless hold on society.
Here's the conundrum. I don't carry cash. Really, I don't. I rarely, if ever, have any sort of currency in form of bill or coin. As I exit a business and see a red kettle with a person ringing the bell, I feel like I should give them some money. Except, WHOOPS, I don't have anything on me!
So just HOW LONG is it until the Salvation Army accepts VISA? Haven't they seen the commercials? Life takes Visa. Ring away good bell ringers, but please don't scoff at me because I do not give. I am a slave to VISA and its cashless hold on society.
Men's BB: Iowa vs. UNI Prediction
VS.
GAME INFO: Wed., Dec 5, 2007 - 8:00 CST - McLeod Center, Cedar Falls, IA
IOWA (5-4) / UNI (6-1)
This game has blowout written all over it.
Jeff Peterson, the Big Ten leader in assists as of the beginning of this week, is out due to the death of his grandfather. Dan Bohall was arrested for public intox and is suspended for the game. And we all know that Tony Freeman is still recovering from his broken 5th metatarsal. Coach Lickliter is nervous too.
If Freeman cannot go, even for spurts at a time, Iowa is in SERIOUS trouble tonight. The Hawkeyes would have been a double-digit underdog even with Peterson and Bohall.
Let's take a look at the current roster:
Ouch. It's not as if this team boasted "depth" under its list of strengths anyway.
Guards (3): Justin Johnson, Jake Kelly, JR Angle
Forwards (3): Kurt Looby, Jarryd Cole, Cyrus Tate
Centers (2): Seth Gorney, David Palmer
Ouch, indeed.
So the Starting Lineup might look like this:
PG - Jake Kelly
SG - Justin Johnson
G - JR Angle
PF - Jarryd Cole
PF - Kurt Looby
I just don't know how Kelly and Johnson don't play 40 minutes each.
Oh yea, don't bother bringing up the possibility of someone fouling out. Just stop right there.
Iowa's first taste of the brand new McLeod Center might not be very delicious.
Will Iowa's bigs be able to stop Coleman (i.e. - Hawkeye Killer) and the up-and-coming stud, Jordan Eglseder? Probably not stop, but contain, I think so. I do think, though, that the UNI guards will harass the ballhandlers to no end and the turnovers for Iowa could be higher than the points scored.
PREDICTION: Iowa 48, UNI 70
GAME INFO: Wed., Dec 5, 2007 - 8:00 CST - McLeod Center, Cedar Falls, IA
IOWA (5-4) / UNI (6-1)
This game has blowout written all over it.
Jeff Peterson, the Big Ten leader in assists as of the beginning of this week, is out due to the death of his grandfather. Dan Bohall was arrested for public intox and is suspended for the game. And we all know that Tony Freeman is still recovering from his broken 5th metatarsal. Coach Lickliter is nervous too.
If Freeman cannot go, even for spurts at a time, Iowa is in SERIOUS trouble tonight. The Hawkeyes would have been a double-digit underdog even with Peterson and Bohall.
Let's take a look at the current roster:
Ouch. It's not as if this team boasted "depth" under its list of strengths anyway.
Guards (3): Justin Johnson, Jake Kelly, JR Angle
Forwards (3): Kurt Looby, Jarryd Cole, Cyrus Tate
Centers (2): Seth Gorney, David Palmer
Ouch, indeed.
So the Starting Lineup might look like this:
PG - Jake Kelly
SG - Justin Johnson
G - JR Angle
PF - Jarryd Cole
PF - Kurt Looby
I just don't know how Kelly and Johnson don't play 40 minutes each.
Oh yea, don't bother bringing up the possibility of someone fouling out. Just stop right there.
Iowa's first taste of the brand new McLeod Center might not be very delicious.
Will Iowa's bigs be able to stop Coleman (i.e. - Hawkeye Killer) and the up-and-coming stud, Jordan Eglseder? Probably not stop, but contain, I think so. I do think, though, that the UNI guards will harass the ballhandlers to no end and the turnovers for Iowa could be higher than the points scored.
PREDICTION: Iowa 48, UNI 70
Monday, November 26, 2007
Men's BB: 2007 ACC / Big Ten Challenge
FYI - Only one Big Ten team has a winning record in this series. Mich St is 4-3. Duke has never lost. Wake is 6-1 in the series.
2007 (Times are EST)
- Wake Forest at Iowa, 7:00 PM, ESPN2
- Georgia Tech at Indiana, 7:00 PM, ESPN
- Minnesota at Florida State, 7:30 PM, ESPN2
- Northwestern at Virginia, 8:00 PM, ESPNU
- Wisconsin at Duke, 9:00 PM, ESPN
- Purdue at Clemson, 9:30 PM, ESPN2
- N.C. State at Michigan State, 7:00 PM, ESPN
- Illinois at Maryland, 7:30 PM, ESPN2
- Boston College at Michigan, 8:00 PM ESPNU
- North Carolina at Ohio State, 9:00 PM, ESPN
- Virginia Tech at Penn State, 9:30 PM, ESPN2
Not Playing: Miami (FL)
My predictions - WINNERS:
Iowa
Indiana
Minnesota
Virginia
Duke
Clemson
Michigan State
Maryland
BC
UNC
VaTech
I think the Big Ten jumps out the big lead, but can't sustain during the end of day two and through day three.
3-0 to start
3-3 tie
4-3 BT lead... then it gets tricky. I think the Illinois/Maryland game can go either way, as the same with VaTech and PSU.
Ultimately, looks like 4-7 ACC or 5-6 ACC. If the BT can steal those two games I mentioned, they can pull the upset. And would it ever be an upset. The Big Ten has some good home court advantages in this year's series.
I'll go on the record saying 4-7 ACC.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Mens BB: Iowa Hawkeye Recruits Sign NLIs
75% of the 2008 class at this point is from Minnesota, with local Iowa City kid, Matt Gatens, the only non-MN commit. Gatens, along with Andrew Brommer and Anthony Tucker signed their National Letters of Intent yesterday. Jermain Davis signed his letter today.
IOWA 2008 RECRUITING CLASS:
(photo courtesy of Scout.com)
Matt Gatens, 4 Star guard from Iowa City, IA. Has all the intangibles to be the next "Hawkeye Great". Top 100 recruit. Plays for Martin Bros. AAU squad. Does everything well on the court. Local kid, who's been a Hawkeye fan all his life. Will be consistent the day he steps onto the floor of Carver Hawkeye Arena.
(photo courtesy of Scout.com)
Anthony Tucker - 3 Star guard from Minnetonka, MN. Plays for Carr's 43 Hoops AAU Squad. Very smooth stroke, great ball handling skills, and high basketball IQ. Has NBA potential in his game (think of a young Arenas). Big fan of Tuck.
(photo courtesy of Scout.com)
Andrew Brommer - 2 Star forward/center from Rosemount, MN. Decommitted from Minnesota when Tubby Smith was hired. Teammate of Tucker's on the 43 Hoops AAU Squad. Very, very smart individual. Not expecting him to be a star player, he has a lot of potential to be a solid contributor, however.
(photo courtesy of Rivals.com)
Jermain Davis - 3 Star guard from Plymouth, MN. Played at Southeastern before transferring to Kirkwood. Decommitted from UNI this summer. Has a terrific all-around game. Can shoot, can handle the rock, can finish. But where he excels is on the D end. He will be an instant contributor for the Iowa Hawkeyes next season.
City's Gatens leads Hawks' recruiting class
Finally dotted-line time for Gatens
Hawks expected to sign 4 recruits
How many scholarships does that leave Iowa for the Spring period?
This article says two left:
http://www.thehawkeye.com/Story/BKC_signing_day_111507
However, correct me if I am wrong:
11 current scholarships
- 3 seniors
+4 signees
= 12 scholarships
Which would give Iowa one left for the spring.
Possible recruits to use the scholly include:
- Emerson Kampen
- Daniel Payne
- Roberto Mafra
- Andy Nagel
- Jamie Vanderbeken
- LA Pomlee
- Kaylon Williams
IOWA 2008 RECRUITING CLASS:
(photo courtesy of Scout.com)
Matt Gatens, 4 Star guard from Iowa City, IA. Has all the intangibles to be the next "Hawkeye Great". Top 100 recruit. Plays for Martin Bros. AAU squad. Does everything well on the court. Local kid, who's been a Hawkeye fan all his life. Will be consistent the day he steps onto the floor of Carver Hawkeye Arena.
(photo courtesy of Scout.com)
Anthony Tucker - 3 Star guard from Minnetonka, MN. Plays for Carr's 43 Hoops AAU Squad. Very smooth stroke, great ball handling skills, and high basketball IQ. Has NBA potential in his game (think of a young Arenas). Big fan of Tuck.
(photo courtesy of Scout.com)
Andrew Brommer - 2 Star forward/center from Rosemount, MN. Decommitted from Minnesota when Tubby Smith was hired. Teammate of Tucker's on the 43 Hoops AAU Squad. Very, very smart individual. Not expecting him to be a star player, he has a lot of potential to be a solid contributor, however.
(photo courtesy of Rivals.com)
Jermain Davis - 3 Star guard from Plymouth, MN. Played at Southeastern before transferring to Kirkwood. Decommitted from UNI this summer. Has a terrific all-around game. Can shoot, can handle the rock, can finish. But where he excels is on the D end. He will be an instant contributor for the Iowa Hawkeyes next season.
City's Gatens leads Hawks' recruiting class
Finally dotted-line time for Gatens
Hawks expected to sign 4 recruits
How many scholarships does that leave Iowa for the Spring period?
This article says two left:
http://www.thehawkeye.com/Story/BKC_signing_day_111507
However, correct me if I am wrong:
11 current scholarships
- 3 seniors
+4 signees
= 12 scholarships
Which would give Iowa one left for the spring.
Possible recruits to use the scholly include:
- Emerson Kampen
- Daniel Payne
- Roberto Mafra
- Andy Nagel
- Jamie Vanderbeken
- LA Pomlee
- Kaylon Williams
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Mens BB: Iowa vs. Northern Colorado - Prediction
VS.
UNC lost 16 out of their last 18 games last year, last year's Purdue team smoked them. I am not trying to come out overconfident (and neither will the Iowa team), but we are talking about a team that won only 4 games last year (2 in conf) and ended up last in the Big Sky. They aren't supposed to be that much better than last year.
2007-08 Big Sky Preseason Men's Basketball Polls
Coaches’ Poll
School (First-place votes)Points
1. Weber State (4)60
2. Montana (4)57
3. Portland State (1)52
4. Northern Arizona44
5. Idaho State37
6. Montana State33
7. Northern Colorado19
8. Eastern Washington15
9. Sacramento State12
Media Poll
School (First-place votes)Points
1. Montana (14)218
2. Weber State (8)200
3. Portland State (2)183
4. Northern Arizona (2)155
5. Montana State114
6. Idaho State111
7. Sacramento State74
8. Northern Colorado56
9. Eastern Washington55
If Iowa (a Big Ten team) cannot beat a team predicted to finish in the lower 2/3rds of the Big Sky conference AT HOME... we are in worse shape than I thought this year. We might not win many others if we lose this one. Personally, I think Idaho St is better than UNC.
Iowa 71, Northern Colorado 55
UNC lost 16 out of their last 18 games last year, last year's Purdue team smoked them. I am not trying to come out overconfident (and neither will the Iowa team), but we are talking about a team that won only 4 games last year (2 in conf) and ended up last in the Big Sky. They aren't supposed to be that much better than last year.
2007-08 Big Sky Preseason Men's Basketball Polls
Coaches’ Poll
School (First-place votes)Points
1. Weber State (4)60
2. Montana (4)57
3. Portland State (1)52
4. Northern Arizona44
5. Idaho State37
6. Montana State33
7. Northern Colorado19
8. Eastern Washington15
9. Sacramento State12
Media Poll
School (First-place votes)Points
1. Montana (14)218
2. Weber State (8)200
3. Portland State (2)183
4. Northern Arizona (2)155
5. Montana State114
6. Idaho State111
7. Sacramento State74
8. Northern Colorado56
9. Eastern Washington55
If Iowa (a Big Ten team) cannot beat a team predicted to finish in the lower 2/3rds of the Big Sky conference AT HOME... we are in worse shape than I thought this year. We might not win many others if we lose this one. Personally, I think Idaho St is better than UNC.
Iowa 71, Northern Colorado 55
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Albert Young Eclipses 3,000 Career Rushing Yards
Albert Young became the third running back in Iowa Football history to rush for over 3,000 yards in a career. Iowa beat Minnesota to reclaim Floyd and become bowl eligible.
Congrats to Albert!
Thursday, November 08, 2007
OT: Godsmack - Good Times Bad Times (Zeppelin Cover)
It's off their 10 Years of Godsmack album.
LISTEN TO IT HERE
I'm not a fan of greatest hits albums, but this one is tight.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Times,_Bad_Times...._10_Years_of_Godsmack
Pick it up, it's a stellar album.
Big Ten Predictions From Various Media Sources
Predictions for Iowa From Various Media Sources
Basketball Prospectus: 8th in the Big Ten
Mich Daily: 9th in the Big Ten
The Realists: 10th in the Big Ten
Big Ten Chronicles: 10th in the Big Ten
Rivals: 10th in the Big Ten
FanIQ: 8th in the Big Ten
JSOnline: 11th in the Big Ten
Media Day Predictions: 10th in the Big Ten
My predictions to come shortly....
Mich Daily: 9th in the Big Ten
The Realists: 10th in the Big Ten
Big Ten Chronicles: 10th in the Big Ten
Rivals: 10th in the Big Ten
FanIQ: 8th in the Big Ten
JSOnline: 11th in the Big Ten
Media Day Predictions: 10th in the Big Ten
My predictions to come shortly....
Double Header This Weekend: Season Opener for Mens Basketball and the Battle for Floyd
I'll be making the trip back down to Iowa for a fun little double header.
Friday night, Iowa fans will usher in a new era of basketball as Todd Lickliter mans the bench for his first official game as the head coach of the men's squad. While this season isn't projected to be one of the ages in regards to wins, there is a certain buzz back around Carver Hawkeye Arena. Ticket sales are already ahead of where they were last year. There was good article in The Sporting News on Coach Lick, entitled "Lickliter trying to change culture at Iowa." So Tony Freeman is out for 4-6 weeks with a broken bone in his 5th metatarsal, which means the Hawks will be without arguably their best player. Worse yet is that it puts the roster size down to a paltry 10 players. Make no mistake, all ten players will have a role on this team. Jeff Peterson is the obvious candidate to step up and fill Tony's shoes. I, for one, am a huge fan of his. The kid is mature beyond his years; I am very excited to see him on the court Friday. Other than that, I would expect a low scoring game (somewhere in the high 50s to mid 60s). I don't think Iowa will blow out the Bengals, but I do see a double-digit win for the Hawks.
I'll get some shuteye and then wake up bright and early to do some tailgating at the Myrtle lot and get ready to see Iowa become bowl eligible. Who would have thought that was possible four weeks ago? Minnesota comes in with one of the worst defenses in the entire nation, and one win on the season (over a MAC team in OT because of a missed FG). Minnesota is hobbling into Kinnick. All three defensive captains - Mike Sherels (linebacker), John Shevlin (linebacker) and Willie Van De Steeg (defensive end) - won't start this week because of injuries. Well, they won't start at least... they are on the depth charts, but they are still nursing injuries. Also, Thomas is doubtful, Bennett is hurting and it looks like Pinnix might not play. Brinkhaus is still loopy from a concussion and is questionable. And if Brinkhaus doesn't play (he is day to day), then MN's line (one of the best in the nation) is going to have a huge hole in it. Iowa should be able to put pressure on Weber, who is closing in on a lot of passing records.. he needs just over 450 passing yards, 3 TDs, 87 total yards, and a few attempts to break them. However, Minny gave up 4 sacks last week to Illinois. Their defense is awful, though... just reeling right now. Very inexperienced and is going to set a record for most yards given up. I know I've been begging Ken O'Keefe to give it to Albert Young, but this week we need to air it out. Minny's defensive backfield is so green, you think it was spring time. I do not want to get overconfident about this game, but I really don't see Iowa losing to the Gophers. On a side note, Albert Young is closing in on 3,000 career rushing yards; here's hoping he hits that plateau this Saturday.
On Iowa! Let's take back Floyd!
Friday night, Iowa fans will usher in a new era of basketball as Todd Lickliter mans the bench for his first official game as the head coach of the men's squad. While this season isn't projected to be one of the ages in regards to wins, there is a certain buzz back around Carver Hawkeye Arena. Ticket sales are already ahead of where they were last year. There was good article in The Sporting News on Coach Lick, entitled "Lickliter trying to change culture at Iowa." So Tony Freeman is out for 4-6 weeks with a broken bone in his 5th metatarsal, which means the Hawks will be without arguably their best player. Worse yet is that it puts the roster size down to a paltry 10 players. Make no mistake, all ten players will have a role on this team. Jeff Peterson is the obvious candidate to step up and fill Tony's shoes. I, for one, am a huge fan of his. The kid is mature beyond his years; I am very excited to see him on the court Friday. Other than that, I would expect a low scoring game (somewhere in the high 50s to mid 60s). I don't think Iowa will blow out the Bengals, but I do see a double-digit win for the Hawks.
I'll get some shuteye and then wake up bright and early to do some tailgating at the Myrtle lot and get ready to see Iowa become bowl eligible. Who would have thought that was possible four weeks ago? Minnesota comes in with one of the worst defenses in the entire nation, and one win on the season (over a MAC team in OT because of a missed FG). Minnesota is hobbling into Kinnick. All three defensive captains - Mike Sherels (linebacker), John Shevlin (linebacker) and Willie Van De Steeg (defensive end) - won't start this week because of injuries. Well, they won't start at least... they are on the depth charts, but they are still nursing injuries. Also, Thomas is doubtful, Bennett is hurting and it looks like Pinnix might not play. Brinkhaus is still loopy from a concussion and is questionable. And if Brinkhaus doesn't play (he is day to day), then MN's line (one of the best in the nation) is going to have a huge hole in it. Iowa should be able to put pressure on Weber, who is closing in on a lot of passing records.. he needs just over 450 passing yards, 3 TDs, 87 total yards, and a few attempts to break them. However, Minny gave up 4 sacks last week to Illinois. Their defense is awful, though... just reeling right now. Very inexperienced and is going to set a record for most yards given up. I know I've been begging Ken O'Keefe to give it to Albert Young, but this week we need to air it out. Minny's defensive backfield is so green, you think it was spring time. I do not want to get overconfident about this game, but I really don't see Iowa losing to the Gophers. On a side note, Albert Young is closing in on 3,000 career rushing yards; here's hoping he hits that plateau this Saturday.
On Iowa! Let's take back Floyd!
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
OT: The Top 10 Worst Christmas Songs of All-Time
THE TOP TEN WORST CHRISTMAS SONGS OF ALL-TIME
Working in the retail business for all of my college career and a few years thereafter, I had the unfortunate pleasure of being inundated with a playlist of Christmas songs during the holiday season that could drive even the most sane person crazy. By "holiday season", I mean from the beginning of November through the middle of January. Yes, almost three months of the same 20 Christmas songs on repeat. Two weeks into the "holiday season" any full-time employee knew the playlist by heart and could sing every song word for word. Not good. With that in mind, I thought I would offer up my list of Worst Christmas Songs of All-Time. It needs to be done. I like to think of it as a method of therapy for me... I am slowly healed 3 years later. I still get flashbacks whenever I set foot back in any retail store during the "holiday season". I pity those around me when this happens. Without further ado, here's my list.
THE WORST CHRISTMAS SONGS OF ALL-TIME
Carnie & Wendy Wilson - "Hey Santa"
I don't know what is worse, the song or the video.
Paul McCartney - "Wonderful Christmas Time"
I thought I knew how annoying synthesizers were... I was wrong. This song almost single-handedly proves that Paul is Dead.
Band Aid - "Do They Know It's Christmas"
Bono, Boy George, Phil Collins, Paul Young, George Michael, Sting, Duran Duran, Bananarama, among others collaborate to create one of the single worst songs of all-time. Oh yeah, Paul McCartney was in this too... go figure. The chorus is absolutely awful. I would say the lyrics are bad, but I could never understand what they were singing because the damn synthesizers were mixed too loud. Ugh. Awful. One more thing, I forgot Bono used to look like Bobcat Goldthwait back then.
Wham! - "Last Christmas"
I'm not sure which is more ackward, the misplaced jingle bells throughout the song or George Michael with a girl.
Barbara Streisand - "Jingle Bells"
I don't know why I dislike this song so much. It's probably because I don't like Streisand. Oh, and the fact that she butchers this song.
Mariah Carey - "All I Want for Christmas is You"
But it's such a great song... blah blah blah. Mariah Carey sucks and so does this song. However, she was pretty smoking in the Black and White version of the video. My how things have changed. I actually like Olivia Olson's version of the song, though.
NewSong - "Christmas Shoes"
First off, Rob Lowe - nice career move. Wow. Secondly, we've all been affected by someone terminally ill. It can be one of the most gut wrenching experiences you'll ever have to endure in your lifetime. I went through that sort of thing with my grandma. That said, this song was written to prey on the emotions that surround the holidays. It's a crappy song and I don't for once believe it should ever be observed as "Christmas Song", however I had to include it on this list. Crappy ass song. Just crappy.
Celine Dion - Happy Christmas (War is Over)
Leave it up a Canadian to ruin a pretty decent little Christmas song. Lennon is spinning in his grave. Thanks a lot, Celine. You suck. You REALLY suck. Then again, this is the same woman who wanted to take a kayak into New Orleans.
Britney Spears - My Only Wish This Year
Ok, I'll admit it. I liked Britney when she first came onto the scene. She was hot, could dance, and was... uh.. hot. This song, however, is junk. Another teenie bop, popcorn and cotton candy fluff song. It's utter crap.
The Barking Dogs - "Jingle Bells"
It was the cutest thing ever... the first time you heard it.
Well, that's my list. A list full of those songs you hear during the "holiday season" that make you wish it was summer. And seeing as Christmas is a time for joy and giving, I'll offer you a few of the songs that I thoroughly enjoy listening to during that special time of the year. I have to prove I am not a Scrooge.
THE BEST CHRISTMAS SONGS OF ALL-TIME
NAT KING COLE - "THE CHRISTMAS SONG"
Yes, Mel Torme wrote it, but Nat does it best.
BING CROSBY - "MELE KALIKIMAKA"
If you don't like National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, you need to be punched in the face.
ELVIS PRESLEY - "BLUE CHRISTMAS"
Personally, I am not a fan of Elvis, but this is a classic.
DAVE MATTHEWS - "CHRISTMAS SONG"
Dave absolutely kills performing this song. It's great.
BING CROSBY - "WHITE CHRISTMAS"
Probably my favorite Christmas song. Crosby is stellar.
BOBBY HELMS - "JINGLE BELL ROCK"
Classic.
BURL IVES - "HAVE A HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS"
One of kind voice. Terrific tune.
JOHN LENNON - "HAPPY CHRISTMAS (WAR IS OVER)"
This is the only version that is allowed.
PERRY COMO - "HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS"
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER - "GOD REST YE MERRY GENTLEMEN"
Love their work, they have some of the best Christmas music.
THE LITTLE STINKERS - "I FARTED ON SANTA'S LAP"
Christmas is about being happy and spreading joy, these kids do just that.
MR. HANKEY'S CHRISTMAS CLASSICS - "MR HANKEY THE CHRISTMAS POO"
He's seen the love inside of you 'cause he's a piece of poo.
JOHN DENVER AND THE MUPPETS - "WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS"
R.I.P. John Denver and Jim Hensen, but at least they made one thing that was great.
ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS - "THE CHRISTMAS SONG"
Every kid's favorite Christmas song. Yeaaa Christmas!!
Working in the retail business for all of my college career and a few years thereafter, I had the unfortunate pleasure of being inundated with a playlist of Christmas songs during the holiday season that could drive even the most sane person crazy. By "holiday season", I mean from the beginning of November through the middle of January. Yes, almost three months of the same 20 Christmas songs on repeat. Two weeks into the "holiday season" any full-time employee knew the playlist by heart and could sing every song word for word. Not good. With that in mind, I thought I would offer up my list of Worst Christmas Songs of All-Time. It needs to be done. I like to think of it as a method of therapy for me... I am slowly healed 3 years later. I still get flashbacks whenever I set foot back in any retail store during the "holiday season". I pity those around me when this happens. Without further ado, here's my list.
THE WORST CHRISTMAS SONGS OF ALL-TIME
Carnie & Wendy Wilson - "Hey Santa"
I don't know what is worse, the song or the video.
Paul McCartney - "Wonderful Christmas Time"
I thought I knew how annoying synthesizers were... I was wrong. This song almost single-handedly proves that Paul is Dead.
Band Aid - "Do They Know It's Christmas"
Bono, Boy George, Phil Collins, Paul Young, George Michael, Sting, Duran Duran, Bananarama, among others collaborate to create one of the single worst songs of all-time. Oh yeah, Paul McCartney was in this too... go figure. The chorus is absolutely awful. I would say the lyrics are bad, but I could never understand what they were singing because the damn synthesizers were mixed too loud. Ugh. Awful. One more thing, I forgot Bono used to look like Bobcat Goldthwait back then.
Wham! - "Last Christmas"
I'm not sure which is more ackward, the misplaced jingle bells throughout the song or George Michael with a girl.
Barbara Streisand - "Jingle Bells"
I don't know why I dislike this song so much. It's probably because I don't like Streisand. Oh, and the fact that she butchers this song.
Mariah Carey - "All I Want for Christmas is You"
But it's such a great song... blah blah blah. Mariah Carey sucks and so does this song. However, she was pretty smoking in the Black and White version of the video. My how things have changed. I actually like Olivia Olson's version of the song, though.
NewSong - "Christmas Shoes"
First off, Rob Lowe - nice career move. Wow. Secondly, we've all been affected by someone terminally ill. It can be one of the most gut wrenching experiences you'll ever have to endure in your lifetime. I went through that sort of thing with my grandma. That said, this song was written to prey on the emotions that surround the holidays. It's a crappy song and I don't for once believe it should ever be observed as "Christmas Song", however I had to include it on this list. Crappy ass song. Just crappy.
Celine Dion - Happy Christmas (War is Over)
Leave it up a Canadian to ruin a pretty decent little Christmas song. Lennon is spinning in his grave. Thanks a lot, Celine. You suck. You REALLY suck. Then again, this is the same woman who wanted to take a kayak into New Orleans.
Britney Spears - My Only Wish This Year
Ok, I'll admit it. I liked Britney when she first came onto the scene. She was hot, could dance, and was... uh.. hot. This song, however, is junk. Another teenie bop, popcorn and cotton candy fluff song. It's utter crap.
The Barking Dogs - "Jingle Bells"
It was the cutest thing ever... the first time you heard it.
Well, that's my list. A list full of those songs you hear during the "holiday season" that make you wish it was summer. And seeing as Christmas is a time for joy and giving, I'll offer you a few of the songs that I thoroughly enjoy listening to during that special time of the year. I have to prove I am not a Scrooge.
THE BEST CHRISTMAS SONGS OF ALL-TIME
NAT KING COLE - "THE CHRISTMAS SONG"
Yes, Mel Torme wrote it, but Nat does it best.
BING CROSBY - "MELE KALIKIMAKA"
If you don't like National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, you need to be punched in the face.
ELVIS PRESLEY - "BLUE CHRISTMAS"
Personally, I am not a fan of Elvis, but this is a classic.
DAVE MATTHEWS - "CHRISTMAS SONG"
Dave absolutely kills performing this song. It's great.
BING CROSBY - "WHITE CHRISTMAS"
Probably my favorite Christmas song. Crosby is stellar.
BOBBY HELMS - "JINGLE BELL ROCK"
Classic.
BURL IVES - "HAVE A HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS"
One of kind voice. Terrific tune.
JOHN LENNON - "HAPPY CHRISTMAS (WAR IS OVER)"
This is the only version that is allowed.
PERRY COMO - "HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS"
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER - "GOD REST YE MERRY GENTLEMEN"
Love their work, they have some of the best Christmas music.
THE LITTLE STINKERS - "I FARTED ON SANTA'S LAP"
Christmas is about being happy and spreading joy, these kids do just that.
MR. HANKEY'S CHRISTMAS CLASSICS - "MR HANKEY THE CHRISTMAS POO"
He's seen the love inside of you 'cause he's a piece of poo.
JOHN DENVER AND THE MUPPETS - "WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS"
R.I.P. John Denver and Jim Hensen, but at least they made one thing that was great.
ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS - "THE CHRISTMAS SONG"
Every kid's favorite Christmas song. Yeaaa Christmas!!
Monday, November 05, 2007
There Could Be SEVEN 7-5 Big Ten Teams at the End of the Year
Hypothetically, there could be SEVEN different Big Ten football programs with a 7-5 record when it is all said and done. Talk about weird.
Here's the scenario (upsets must occur):
This weekend (winners in CAPS, new record following team name) -
Indiana [6-5 (2-5)] vs. NORTHWESTERN [6-5, (3-4)]
MICHIGAN [9-2, (7-0)] vs. Wisconsin [7-4, (3-4)]
MICHIGAN ST [6-5, 2-5)] vs. Purdue [7-4, (3-4)]
Minnesota [1-10, (0-7)] vs. IOWA [6-5, (4-4)]
Illinois [7-4, (4-3)] vs. OHIO STATE [11-0, (7-0)]
PENN STATE [8-3, (4-3)] vs. Temple
Final weekend (winners in CAPS, new record following team name) -
Ohio State [11-1, (7-1)] vs. MICHIGAN [10-2, (8-0)]
Penn State [7-5, (4-4)] vs. MICHIGAN STATE [7-5, (3-5)]
Purdue [7-5, (4-4)] vs. INDIANA [7-5, (3-5)]
NORTHWESTERN [7-5, (4-4)] vs. Illinois [7-5, (4-4)]
Wisconsin [7-5, (3-5)] vs. MINNESOTA [2-10, (1-7)]
W. Michigan vs. IOWA [7-5, (4-4)]
I realize that some big upsets would have to occur for this to happen, but can you imagine seven teams at 7-5? Crazy. That would be one muddy Bowl picture.
Standings would look like this:
Not that it's going to happen, but it would be interesting... If Temple somehow beat Penn State, there would be 8 teams with a 7-5 record.
A refresher for the current Bowl selection order:
* ROSE BOWL
* BCS
* CAPITAL ONE
* OUTBACK
* ALAMO
* CHAMPS SPORTS
* INSIGHT
* MOTOR CITY
Here's the scenario (upsets must occur):
This weekend (winners in CAPS, new record following team name) -
Indiana [6-5 (2-5)] vs. NORTHWESTERN [6-5, (3-4)]
MICHIGAN [9-2, (7-0)] vs. Wisconsin [7-4, (3-4)]
MICHIGAN ST [6-5, 2-5)] vs. Purdue [7-4, (3-4)]
Minnesota [1-10, (0-7)] vs. IOWA [6-5, (4-4)]
Illinois [7-4, (4-3)] vs. OHIO STATE [11-0, (7-0)]
PENN STATE [8-3, (4-3)] vs. Temple
Final weekend (winners in CAPS, new record following team name) -
Ohio State [11-1, (7-1)] vs. MICHIGAN [10-2, (8-0)]
Penn State [7-5, (4-4)] vs. MICHIGAN STATE [7-5, (3-5)]
Purdue [7-5, (4-4)] vs. INDIANA [7-5, (3-5)]
NORTHWESTERN [7-5, (4-4)] vs. Illinois [7-5, (4-4)]
Wisconsin [7-5, (3-5)] vs. MINNESOTA [2-10, (1-7)]
W. Michigan vs. IOWA [7-5, (4-4)]
I realize that some big upsets would have to occur for this to happen, but can you imagine seven teams at 7-5? Crazy. That would be one muddy Bowl picture.
Standings would look like this:
1.) Michigan 8-0 10-2
2.) Ohio State 7-1 11-1
3.) Penn State 4-4 8-4
4.) Purdue 4-4 7-5
5.) Iowa 4-4 7-5
6.) Illinois 4-4 7-5
7.) Northwestern 4-4 7-5
8.) Wisconsin 3-5 7-5
9.) Indiana 3-5 7-5
10.) Mich State 3-5 7-5
11.) Minnesota 1-7 2-10
Not that it's going to happen, but it would be interesting... If Temple somehow beat Penn State, there would be 8 teams with a 7-5 record.
A refresher for the current Bowl selection order:
* ROSE BOWL
* BCS
* CAPITAL ONE
* OUTBACK
* ALAMO
* CHAMPS SPORTS
* INSIGHT
* MOTOR CITY
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Albert Young - 3rd on Iowa's All-Time Rushing List
During the victory today vs. Northwestern, Albert Young passed Tavian Banks on Iowa's All-Time Rusher list. He sits behind Sedrick Shaw and Ladell Betts in Iowa's record book.
He is now 14 Yards away from hitting the 3,000 yard plateau
Congrats, AY!
With the win, Iowa moves to 1 win from being bowl eligible. Two games at home to get to 7-5 and a possible berth in the Champs or Insight Bowl... quite an accomplishment all things considered.
He is now 14 Yards away from hitting the 3,000 yard plateau
Congrats, AY!
With the win, Iowa moves to 1 win from being bowl eligible. Two games at home to get to 7-5 and a possible berth in the Champs or Insight Bowl... quite an accomplishment all things considered.
Monday, October 29, 2007
HigbyforHeisman.com is Gone
Sorry to those who frequented that site... unfortunately the domain name expired and I forgot to renew, so HigbyforHeisman.com is parked by another company. I didn't released it was only a 1 year deal on it, my bad. Sorry.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Why Iowa is Losing Ballgames: COMPLETELY STAT BASED
FIRST DOWNS G Rush Pass Pen Total
-----------------------------------------------
1. Purdue.............. 8 67 117 17 201
2. Northwestern........ 8 54 116 20 190
3. Michigan............ 8 83 88 15 186
4. Minnesota........... 8 87 89 8 184
5. Penn State.......... 8 87 85 6 178
6. Wisconsin........... 8 78 86 9 173
7. Ohio State.......... 8 81 77 14 172
8. Indiana............. 8 65 84 22 171
9. Michigan State...... 8 86 74 5 165
10.Illinois............ 8 91 57 10 158
11.Iowa................ 8 61 68 7 136
RED ZONE OFFENSE G RedZone Percent TDs R/P FG-AT Fumb/Int/Downs/Other
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Purdue.............. 8 34-37 91.9 26 10/16 8-8 2/ 0/ 1/ 0
2. Ohio State.......... 8 27-30 90.0 20 10/10 7-9 1/ 0/ 0/ 0
3. Penn State.......... 8 37-42 88.1 24 16/8 13-14 1/ 2/ 1/ 0
4. Michigan State...... 8 30-36 83.3 24 16/8 6-9 1/ 1/ 1/ 0
5. Wisconsin........... 8 29-35 82.9 21 14/7 8-9 2/ 0/ 0/ 3
Indiana............. 8 29-35 82.9 19 10/9 10-11 1/ 3/ 1/ 0
7. Illinois............ 8 18-22 81.8 15 12/3 3-3 1/ 2/ 0/ 1
8. Minnesota........... 8 25-31 80.6 22 11/11 3-3 2/ 1/ 3/ 0
9. Northwestern........ 8 29-37 78.4 22 12/10 7-10 1/ 0/ 4/ 0
10.Michigan............ 8 29-38 76.3 22 12/10 7-12 0/ 1/ 1/ 2
11.Iowa................ 8 16-23 69.6 10 3/7 6-10 1/ 1/ 0/ 1
3RD-DN CONVERSIONS G Conv Att Pct
-------------------------------------------
1. Wisconsin........... 8 58 118 49.2
2. Minnesota........... 8 59 126 46.8
3. Michigan............ 8 60 129 46.5
4. Ohio State.......... 8 50 109 45.9
5. Penn State.......... 8 55 121 45.5
6. Northwestern........ 8 59 132 44.7
7. Indiana............. 8 50 116 43.1
8. Michigan State...... 8 49 116 42.2
9. Purdue.............. 8 51 126 40.5
10.Illinois............ 8 44 111 39.6
11.Iowa................ 8 41 129 31.8
OPP 3RD-DN CONVERT G Conv Att Pct
-------------------------------------------
1. Ohio State.......... 8 36 128 28.1
2. Purdue.............. 8 39 129 30.2
3. Penn State.......... 8 41 129 31.8
4. Wisconsin........... 8 41 113 36.3
5. Illinois............ 8 48 131 36.6
6. Indiana............. 8 49 129 38.0
7. Michigan State...... 8 46 120 38.3
8. Michigan............ 8 46 119 38.7
9. Iowa................ 8 52 128 40.6
10.Northwestern........ 8 46 108 42.6
11.Minnesota........... 8 56 129 43.4
SACKS AGAINST G Sacks Yards
---------------------------------------
1. Minnesota........... 8 6 45
2. Illinois............ 8 9 70
Ohio State.......... 8 9 69
4. Purdue.............. 8 11 88
5. Michigan............ 8 14 102
6. Penn State.......... 8 16 109
7. Wisconsin........... 8 17 117
8. Northwestern........ 8 19 126
9. Michigan State...... 8 21 126
10.Indiana............. 8 22 171
11.Iowa................ 8 32 186
PENALTIES G No Yds Avg/G
------------------------------------------
1. Penn State.......... 8 33 273 34.1
2. Minnesota........... 8 42 315 39.4
3. Purdue.............. 8 43 320 40.0
4. Ohio State.......... 8 49 330 41.2
5. Michigan............ 8 41 341 42.6
6. Wisconsin........... 8 47 353 44.1
7. Michigan State...... 8 40 373 46.6
8. Northwestern........ 8 41 392 49.0
9. Iowa................ 8 47 401 50.1
10.Indiana............. 8 41 411 51.4
11.Illinois............ 8 44 425 53.1
ALL RESULT IN THIS:
SCORING OFFENSE G TD XP 2XP DXP FG Saf Pts Avg
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Purdue.............. 8 37 37 0 0 9 0 286 35.8
2. Indiana............. 8 34 34 0 0 15 0 283 35.4
3. Michigan State...... 8 36 35 0 0 8 0 275 34.4
4. Ohio State.......... 8 34 31 0 0 13 0 274 34.2
5. Penn State.......... 8 32 31 0 0 14 0 265 33.1
6. Minnesota........... 8 33 29 1 0 3 0 238 29.8
Wisconsin........... 8 29 26 1 0 12 0 238 29.8
8. Michigan............ 8 29 26 0 0 9 0 227 28.4
9. Northwestern........ 8 28 26 0 0 9 1 223 27.9
10.Illinois............ 8 25 24 0 0 10 0 204 25.5
11.Iowa................ 8 14 12 0 0 8 0 120 15.0
Additionally, Iowa almost has as many punts as Ohio State and Wisconsin... COMBINED.
Almost every team in the Big Ten has more Red Zone ATTEMPTS than Iowa has CONVERSIONS!
Iowa has taken more sacks than Minnesota (passing team), Purdue (passing team), and Ohio State... COMBINED!
Iowa's QB play hasn't help out much either:
PASSING AVG/GAME Team Cl G Att Cmp Int Pct. Yds TD Avg/G
------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Bacher, C.J......... NU JR 8 346 216 8 62.4 2598 14 324.8
2. Painter,Curtis...... PUR SR 8 339 213 6 62.8 2238 22 279.8
3. Weber, Adam......... MINN FR 8 310 181 15 58.4 2046 19 255.8
4. Lewis, Kellen....... IND SO 8 265 163 6 61.5 1952 19 244.0
5. Morelli, Anthony.... PSU SR 8 247 147 7 59.5 1739 13 217.4
6. Donovan,Tyler....... WIS SR 8 219 130 8 59.4 1711 12 213.9
7. Henne, Chad......... MICH SR 6 167 105 5 62.9 1258 10 209.7
8. Hoyer, Brian........ MSU JR 8 211 127 4 60.2 1602 11 200.2
9. Boeckman, Todd...... OSU JR 8 182 119 7 65.4 1539 18 192.4
10.Christensen, Jake... IOWA SO 8 257 138 3 53.7 1511 11 188.9
TOTAL OFFENSE Team Cl G Rush Pass Plays Total Yds/G
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Bacher, C.J......... NU JR 8 57 2598 405 2655 331.9
2. Weber, Adam......... MINN FR 8 401 2046 408 2447 305.9
3. Lewis, Kellen....... IND SO 8 476 1952 354 2428 303.5
4. Painter,Curtis...... PUR SR 8 -44 2238 363 2194 274.2
5. Donovan,Tyler....... WIS SR 8 142 1711 284 1853 231.6
6. Morelli, Anthony.... PSU SR 8 -64 1739 276 1675 209.4
7. Henne, Chad......... MICH SR 6 -68 1258 181 1190 198.3
8. Hoyer, Brian........ MSU JR 8 -79 1602 240 1523 190.4
9. Boeckman, Todd...... OSU JR 8 -22 1539 202 1517 189.6
10.Christensen, Jake... IOWA SO 8 -23 1511 322 1488 186.0
PASS EFFICIENCY Team Cl G Att Cmp Int Pct. Yds TD Eff.
------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Boeckman, Todd...... OSU JR 8 182 119 7 65.4 1539 18 161.4
2. Lewis, Kellen....... IND SO 8 265 163 6 61.5 1952 19 142.5
3. Henne, Chad......... MICH SR 6 167 105 5 62.9 1258 10 139.9
4. Hoyer, Brian........ MSU JR 8 211 127 4 60.2 1602 11 137.4
5. Painter,Curtis...... PUR SR 8 339 213 6 62.8 2238 22 136.2
6. Donovan,Tyler....... WIS SR 8 219 130 8 59.4 1711 12 135.8
7. Bacher, C.J......... NU JR 8 346 216 8 62.4 2598 14 134.2
8. Morelli, Anthony.... PSU SR 8 247 147 7 59.5 1739 13 130.4
9. Weber, Adam......... MINN FR 8 310 181 15 58.4 2046 19 124.4
10.Christensen, Jake... IOWA SO 8 257 138 3 53.7 1511 11 114.9
-----------------------------------------------
1. Purdue.............. 8 67 117 17 201
2. Northwestern........ 8 54 116 20 190
3. Michigan............ 8 83 88 15 186
4. Minnesota........... 8 87 89 8 184
5. Penn State.......... 8 87 85 6 178
6. Wisconsin........... 8 78 86 9 173
7. Ohio State.......... 8 81 77 14 172
8. Indiana............. 8 65 84 22 171
9. Michigan State...... 8 86 74 5 165
10.Illinois............ 8 91 57 10 158
11.Iowa................ 8 61 68 7 136
RED ZONE OFFENSE G RedZone Percent TDs R/P FG-AT Fumb/Int/Downs/Other
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Purdue.............. 8 34-37 91.9 26 10/16 8-8 2/ 0/ 1/ 0
2. Ohio State.......... 8 27-30 90.0 20 10/10 7-9 1/ 0/ 0/ 0
3. Penn State.......... 8 37-42 88.1 24 16/8 13-14 1/ 2/ 1/ 0
4. Michigan State...... 8 30-36 83.3 24 16/8 6-9 1/ 1/ 1/ 0
5. Wisconsin........... 8 29-35 82.9 21 14/7 8-9 2/ 0/ 0/ 3
Indiana............. 8 29-35 82.9 19 10/9 10-11 1/ 3/ 1/ 0
7. Illinois............ 8 18-22 81.8 15 12/3 3-3 1/ 2/ 0/ 1
8. Minnesota........... 8 25-31 80.6 22 11/11 3-3 2/ 1/ 3/ 0
9. Northwestern........ 8 29-37 78.4 22 12/10 7-10 1/ 0/ 4/ 0
10.Michigan............ 8 29-38 76.3 22 12/10 7-12 0/ 1/ 1/ 2
11.Iowa................ 8 16-23 69.6 10 3/7 6-10 1/ 1/ 0/ 1
3RD-DN CONVERSIONS G Conv Att Pct
-------------------------------------------
1. Wisconsin........... 8 58 118 49.2
2. Minnesota........... 8 59 126 46.8
3. Michigan............ 8 60 129 46.5
4. Ohio State.......... 8 50 109 45.9
5. Penn State.......... 8 55 121 45.5
6. Northwestern........ 8 59 132 44.7
7. Indiana............. 8 50 116 43.1
8. Michigan State...... 8 49 116 42.2
9. Purdue.............. 8 51 126 40.5
10.Illinois............ 8 44 111 39.6
11.Iowa................ 8 41 129 31.8
OPP 3RD-DN CONVERT G Conv Att Pct
-------------------------------------------
1. Ohio State.......... 8 36 128 28.1
2. Purdue.............. 8 39 129 30.2
3. Penn State.......... 8 41 129 31.8
4. Wisconsin........... 8 41 113 36.3
5. Illinois............ 8 48 131 36.6
6. Indiana............. 8 49 129 38.0
7. Michigan State...... 8 46 120 38.3
8. Michigan............ 8 46 119 38.7
9. Iowa................ 8 52 128 40.6
10.Northwestern........ 8 46 108 42.6
11.Minnesota........... 8 56 129 43.4
SACKS AGAINST G Sacks Yards
---------------------------------------
1. Minnesota........... 8 6 45
2. Illinois............ 8 9 70
Ohio State.......... 8 9 69
4. Purdue.............. 8 11 88
5. Michigan............ 8 14 102
6. Penn State.......... 8 16 109
7. Wisconsin........... 8 17 117
8. Northwestern........ 8 19 126
9. Michigan State...... 8 21 126
10.Indiana............. 8 22 171
11.Iowa................ 8 32 186
PENALTIES G No Yds Avg/G
------------------------------------------
1. Penn State.......... 8 33 273 34.1
2. Minnesota........... 8 42 315 39.4
3. Purdue.............. 8 43 320 40.0
4. Ohio State.......... 8 49 330 41.2
5. Michigan............ 8 41 341 42.6
6. Wisconsin........... 8 47 353 44.1
7. Michigan State...... 8 40 373 46.6
8. Northwestern........ 8 41 392 49.0
9. Iowa................ 8 47 401 50.1
10.Indiana............. 8 41 411 51.4
11.Illinois............ 8 44 425 53.1
ALL RESULT IN THIS:
SCORING OFFENSE G TD XP 2XP DXP FG Saf Pts Avg
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Purdue.............. 8 37 37 0 0 9 0 286 35.8
2. Indiana............. 8 34 34 0 0 15 0 283 35.4
3. Michigan State...... 8 36 35 0 0 8 0 275 34.4
4. Ohio State.......... 8 34 31 0 0 13 0 274 34.2
5. Penn State.......... 8 32 31 0 0 14 0 265 33.1
6. Minnesota........... 8 33 29 1 0 3 0 238 29.8
Wisconsin........... 8 29 26 1 0 12 0 238 29.8
8. Michigan............ 8 29 26 0 0 9 0 227 28.4
9. Northwestern........ 8 28 26 0 0 9 1 223 27.9
10.Illinois............ 8 25 24 0 0 10 0 204 25.5
11.Iowa................ 8 14 12 0 0 8 0 120 15.0
Additionally, Iowa almost has as many punts as Ohio State and Wisconsin... COMBINED.
Almost every team in the Big Ten has more Red Zone ATTEMPTS than Iowa has CONVERSIONS!
Iowa has taken more sacks than Minnesota (passing team), Purdue (passing team), and Ohio State... COMBINED!
Iowa's QB play hasn't help out much either:
PASSING AVG/GAME Team Cl G Att Cmp Int Pct. Yds TD Avg/G
------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Bacher, C.J......... NU JR 8 346 216 8 62.4 2598 14 324.8
2. Painter,Curtis...... PUR SR 8 339 213 6 62.8 2238 22 279.8
3. Weber, Adam......... MINN FR 8 310 181 15 58.4 2046 19 255.8
4. Lewis, Kellen....... IND SO 8 265 163 6 61.5 1952 19 244.0
5. Morelli, Anthony.... PSU SR 8 247 147 7 59.5 1739 13 217.4
6. Donovan,Tyler....... WIS SR 8 219 130 8 59.4 1711 12 213.9
7. Henne, Chad......... MICH SR 6 167 105 5 62.9 1258 10 209.7
8. Hoyer, Brian........ MSU JR 8 211 127 4 60.2 1602 11 200.2
9. Boeckman, Todd...... OSU JR 8 182 119 7 65.4 1539 18 192.4
10.Christensen, Jake... IOWA SO 8 257 138 3 53.7 1511 11 188.9
TOTAL OFFENSE Team Cl G Rush Pass Plays Total Yds/G
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Bacher, C.J......... NU JR 8 57 2598 405 2655 331.9
2. Weber, Adam......... MINN FR 8 401 2046 408 2447 305.9
3. Lewis, Kellen....... IND SO 8 476 1952 354 2428 303.5
4. Painter,Curtis...... PUR SR 8 -44 2238 363 2194 274.2
5. Donovan,Tyler....... WIS SR 8 142 1711 284 1853 231.6
6. Morelli, Anthony.... PSU SR 8 -64 1739 276 1675 209.4
7. Henne, Chad......... MICH SR 6 -68 1258 181 1190 198.3
8. Hoyer, Brian........ MSU JR 8 -79 1602 240 1523 190.4
9. Boeckman, Todd...... OSU JR 8 -22 1539 202 1517 189.6
10.Christensen, Jake... IOWA SO 8 -23 1511 322 1488 186.0
PASS EFFICIENCY Team Cl G Att Cmp Int Pct. Yds TD Eff.
------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Boeckman, Todd...... OSU JR 8 182 119 7 65.4 1539 18 161.4
2. Lewis, Kellen....... IND SO 8 265 163 6 61.5 1952 19 142.5
3. Henne, Chad......... MICH SR 6 167 105 5 62.9 1258 10 139.9
4. Hoyer, Brian........ MSU JR 8 211 127 4 60.2 1602 11 137.4
5. Painter,Curtis...... PUR SR 8 339 213 6 62.8 2238 22 136.2
6. Donovan,Tyler....... WIS SR 8 219 130 8 59.4 1711 12 135.8
7. Bacher, C.J......... NU JR 8 346 216 8 62.4 2598 14 134.2
8. Morelli, Anthony.... PSU SR 8 247 147 7 59.5 1739 13 130.4
9. Weber, Adam......... MINN FR 8 310 181 15 58.4 2046 19 124.4
10.Christensen, Jake... IOWA SO 8 257 138 3 53.7 1511 11 114.9
Monday, October 15, 2007
Hawks beat Illinois: Ferentz is emotional, Zook shoves a cameraman.
Huge win for Iowa.
I had been waiting to put out a video of Kirk Ferentz for a while. After the Illinois game, it seems as appropriate as ever to release it.
Check out "The Captain"
The Ol' Zooker still cannot figure out how to beat Ferentz. Perhaps he took his frustrations out on a cameraman. I uploaded this video to YouTube. So it wasn't vicious, but come on, it's Zook.
Check it out as Ron Zook gives a camera guy a shove after his very brief handshake with Kirk.
On Iowa!
PS - Thank you Ken O'Keefe for giving Albert Young the ball. You gave it to him 25 times. He rushed for about 100 yards. The Hawks won. It really is that simple. Seriously.
I had been waiting to put out a video of Kirk Ferentz for a while. After the Illinois game, it seems as appropriate as ever to release it.
Check out "The Captain"
The Ol' Zooker still cannot figure out how to beat Ferentz. Perhaps he took his frustrations out on a cameraman. I uploaded this video to YouTube. So it wasn't vicious, but come on, it's Zook.
Check it out as Ron Zook gives a camera guy a shove after his very brief handshake with Kirk.
On Iowa!
PS - Thank you Ken O'Keefe for giving Albert Young the ball. You gave it to him 25 times. He rushed for about 100 yards. The Hawks won. It really is that simple. Seriously.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
OFF TOPIC: The Infamous Craigslist - Pers-431649184 Post (Beautiful Woman Looking for Guy Who Makes at Least a Half a Million Dollars)
This has been going around the Net and E-mail boxes, so it's only fair it gets on here. Good stuff, actually.
Here's is the post from Craigslist:
THE ORIGINAL POST/QUESTION
What am I doing wrong?
Okay, I’m tired of beating around the bush. I’m a beautiful (spectacularly beautiful) 25 year old girl. I’m articulate and classy.
I’m not from New York . I’m looking to get married to a guy who makes at least half a million a year. I know how that sounds, but keep in mind that a million a year is middle class in New York City, so I don’t think I’m overreaching at all.
Are there any guys who make 500K or more on this board? Any wives? Could you send me some tips? I dated a business man who makes average around 200 - 250. But that’s where I seem to hit a roadblock. 250,000 won’t get me to central park west. I know a woman in my yoga class who was married to an investment banker and lives in Tribeca, and she’s not as pretty as I am, nor is she a great genius. So what is she doing right? How do I get to her level?
Here are my questions specifically:
- Where do you single rich men hang out? Give me specifics- bars, restaurants, gyms
-What are you looking for in a mate? Be honest guys, you won’t hurt my feelings
-Is there an age range I should be targeting (I’m 25)?
- Why are some of the women living lavish lifestyles on the upper east side so plain? I’ve seen really ‘plain jane’ boring types who have nothing to offer married to incredibly wealthy guys. I’ve seen drop dead gorgeous girls in singles bars in the east village. What’s the story there?
- Jobs I should look out for? Everyone knows - lawyer, investment banker, doctor. How much do those guys really make? And where do they hang out? Where do the hedge fund guys hang out?
- How you decide marriage vs. just a girlfriend? I am looking for MARRIAGE ONLY
Please hold your insults - I’m putting myself out there in an honest way. Most beautiful women are superficial; at least I’m being up front about it. I wouldn’t be searching for these kind of guys if I wasn’t able to match them - in looks, culture, sophistication, and keeping a nice home and hearth.
it’s NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
PostingID: 432279810
THE ANSWER
Dear Pers-431649184:
I read your posting with great interest and have thought meaningfully about your dilemma. I offer the following analysis of your predicament.
Firstly, I’m not wasting your time, I qualify as a guy who fits your bill; that is I make more than $500K per year. That said here’s how I see it.
Your offer, from the prospective of a guy like me, is plain and simple a crappy business deal. Here’s why. Cutting through all the B.S., what you suggest is a simple trade: you bring your looks to the party and I bring my money. Fine, simple. But here’s the rub, your looks will fade and my money will likely continue into perpetuity…in fact, it is very likely that my income increases but it is an absolute certainty that you won’t be getting any more beautiful!
So, in economic terms you are a depreciating asset and I am an earning asset. Not only are you a depreciating asset, your depreciation accelerates! Let me explain, you’re 25 now and will likely stay pretty hot for the next 5 years, but less so each year. Then the fade begins in earnest. By 35 stick a fork in you!
So in Wall Street terms, we would call you a trading position, not a buy and hold…hence the rub…marriage. It doesn’t make good business sense to “buy you” (which is what you’re asking) so I’d rather lease. In case you think I’m being cruel, I would say the following. If my money were to go away, so would you, so when your beauty fades I need an out. It’s as simple as that. So a deal that makes sense is dating, not marriage.
Separately, I was taught early in my career about efficient markets. So, I wonder why a girl as “articulate, classy and spectacularly beautiful”
as you has been unable to find your sugar daddy. I find it hard to believe that if you are as gorgeous as you say you are that the $500K hasn’t found you, if not only for a tryout.
By the way, you could always find a way to make your own money and then we wouldn’t need to have this difficult conversation.
With all that said, I must say you’re going about it the right way.
Classic “pump and dump.”
I hope this is helpful, and if you want to enter into some sort of lease, let me know.
Here's is the post from Craigslist:
THE ORIGINAL POST/QUESTION
What am I doing wrong?
Okay, I’m tired of beating around the bush. I’m a beautiful (spectacularly beautiful) 25 year old girl. I’m articulate and classy.
I’m not from New York . I’m looking to get married to a guy who makes at least half a million a year. I know how that sounds, but keep in mind that a million a year is middle class in New York City, so I don’t think I’m overreaching at all.
Are there any guys who make 500K or more on this board? Any wives? Could you send me some tips? I dated a business man who makes average around 200 - 250. But that’s where I seem to hit a roadblock. 250,000 won’t get me to central park west. I know a woman in my yoga class who was married to an investment banker and lives in Tribeca, and she’s not as pretty as I am, nor is she a great genius. So what is she doing right? How do I get to her level?
Here are my questions specifically:
- Where do you single rich men hang out? Give me specifics- bars, restaurants, gyms
-What are you looking for in a mate? Be honest guys, you won’t hurt my feelings
-Is there an age range I should be targeting (I’m 25)?
- Why are some of the women living lavish lifestyles on the upper east side so plain? I’ve seen really ‘plain jane’ boring types who have nothing to offer married to incredibly wealthy guys. I’ve seen drop dead gorgeous girls in singles bars in the east village. What’s the story there?
- Jobs I should look out for? Everyone knows - lawyer, investment banker, doctor. How much do those guys really make? And where do they hang out? Where do the hedge fund guys hang out?
- How you decide marriage vs. just a girlfriend? I am looking for MARRIAGE ONLY
Please hold your insults - I’m putting myself out there in an honest way. Most beautiful women are superficial; at least I’m being up front about it. I wouldn’t be searching for these kind of guys if I wasn’t able to match them - in looks, culture, sophistication, and keeping a nice home and hearth.
it’s NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
PostingID: 432279810
THE ANSWER
Dear Pers-431649184:
I read your posting with great interest and have thought meaningfully about your dilemma. I offer the following analysis of your predicament.
Firstly, I’m not wasting your time, I qualify as a guy who fits your bill; that is I make more than $500K per year. That said here’s how I see it.
Your offer, from the prospective of a guy like me, is plain and simple a crappy business deal. Here’s why. Cutting through all the B.S., what you suggest is a simple trade: you bring your looks to the party and I bring my money. Fine, simple. But here’s the rub, your looks will fade and my money will likely continue into perpetuity…in fact, it is very likely that my income increases but it is an absolute certainty that you won’t be getting any more beautiful!
So, in economic terms you are a depreciating asset and I am an earning asset. Not only are you a depreciating asset, your depreciation accelerates! Let me explain, you’re 25 now and will likely stay pretty hot for the next 5 years, but less so each year. Then the fade begins in earnest. By 35 stick a fork in you!
So in Wall Street terms, we would call you a trading position, not a buy and hold…hence the rub…marriage. It doesn’t make good business sense to “buy you” (which is what you’re asking) so I’d rather lease. In case you think I’m being cruel, I would say the following. If my money were to go away, so would you, so when your beauty fades I need an out. It’s as simple as that. So a deal that makes sense is dating, not marriage.
Separately, I was taught early in my career about efficient markets. So, I wonder why a girl as “articulate, classy and spectacularly beautiful”
as you has been unable to find your sugar daddy. I find it hard to believe that if you are as gorgeous as you say you are that the $500K hasn’t found you, if not only for a tryout.
By the way, you could always find a way to make your own money and then we wouldn’t need to have this difficult conversation.
With all that said, I must say you’re going about it the right way.
Classic “pump and dump.”
I hope this is helpful, and if you want to enter into some sort of lease, let me know.
Monday, October 01, 2007
And Further More... In Regards to Ken O'Keefe vs. Indiana
Once Indiana started to load the box, it would have been time to go to the air.
The thing is, it never came to that.
IOWA'S FIRST FIVE POSSESSIONS:
Base package by Indiana - first series:
AY for 6 yard, 2nd and 4. What does KOK do? Pass. Sack. Loss of 6. Back to 3rd and long. 3 and out. Punt.
Next series, great field position. 1st and 10. Run? Nope. Pass. Sack. Run by AY for 9 yards (would have been 2nd and 1 had we ran on 1st down). , but illegal formation called. First down on the slant. Try the toss to DJK (good idea, as good as a run). AY for 3, 3rd and 2. Pass. Incomplete. Missed FG.
Next series, Backed up deep in the endzone. Run? Nope. Pass. Incomplete. 2nd down Sims is stopped and now we're forced to pass with 3rd and long again. 3 and out. Bad punt. Great FP for Indy. TD Indy.
Next series, Sims gets the ball on first down (THANK YOU KOK!). 17 yards, but penalty brings it back. 18 yard pass to Cleveland. Sims loses 2 on 2nd and 2. Draw play (I actually loved this call) falls 1 yard short. 3 and out. Punt.
Next series, decent PF. Run? Nope. Pass. 25 yards to TE. First down. Run? Nope. Pass. Sack. Loss of 9. 2nd and forever. Screen pass. 3rd and long. Incomplete. 3 and out. Punt.
So now at this point Iowa is down 21-0.
Albert Young rushes? 3 for 18 yards. So you are telling me that through a quarter and a half of football vs. an awful rush D, Albert Young carried the ball 3 times. 3 times. That's just amazing to me.
Alright, Iowa gets the ball back down 21 to zip and finally KOK "gets it" or so I thought he did.
First down - AY up the gut for 4 yards. Second down - AY up the gut for 21 yards. First down - AY up the gut for 3 yards. Hey, this is working pretty good, huh? Let's keep running... 2nd down and 7. Pass. Sack. 3rd and 9 - forced to pass, Chaney with the 7 yard gain. Go for it on 4th, Jake with the 2 yard rush. First down. We should run, right?! WE DO! AY off left tackle for 3 yards. 2nd down - AY off right tackle for 11 yards. First down! Great job line! Great job AY! Keep feeding him!! First Down on the 10 yard line - run it right? Nope. Pass. Incomplete. 2nd down - screen to Sims for 3. 3rd down - pass to Chaney. Incomplete. 25 yd FG missed.
Am I missing something here? Until Indiana was able to stop our run, there is NO REASON to go away from it. FORCE them to stack the box. Iowa didn't do this, though.
Frustration, to say the least.
The thing is, it never came to that.
IOWA'S FIRST FIVE POSSESSIONS:
Base package by Indiana - first series:
AY for 6 yard, 2nd and 4. What does KOK do? Pass. Sack. Loss of 6. Back to 3rd and long. 3 and out. Punt.
Next series, great field position. 1st and 10. Run? Nope. Pass. Sack. Run by AY for 9 yards (would have been 2nd and 1 had we ran on 1st down). , but illegal formation called. First down on the slant. Try the toss to DJK (good idea, as good as a run). AY for 3, 3rd and 2. Pass. Incomplete. Missed FG.
Next series, Backed up deep in the endzone. Run? Nope. Pass. Incomplete. 2nd down Sims is stopped and now we're forced to pass with 3rd and long again. 3 and out. Bad punt. Great FP for Indy. TD Indy.
Next series, Sims gets the ball on first down (THANK YOU KOK!). 17 yards, but penalty brings it back. 18 yard pass to Cleveland. Sims loses 2 on 2nd and 2. Draw play (I actually loved this call) falls 1 yard short. 3 and out. Punt.
Next series, decent PF. Run? Nope. Pass. 25 yards to TE. First down. Run? Nope. Pass. Sack. Loss of 9. 2nd and forever. Screen pass. 3rd and long. Incomplete. 3 and out. Punt.
So now at this point Iowa is down 21-0.
Albert Young rushes? 3 for 18 yards. So you are telling me that through a quarter and a half of football vs. an awful rush D, Albert Young carried the ball 3 times. 3 times. That's just amazing to me.
Alright, Iowa gets the ball back down 21 to zip and finally KOK "gets it" or so I thought he did.
First down - AY up the gut for 4 yards. Second down - AY up the gut for 21 yards. First down - AY up the gut for 3 yards. Hey, this is working pretty good, huh? Let's keep running... 2nd down and 7. Pass. Sack. 3rd and 9 - forced to pass, Chaney with the 7 yard gain. Go for it on 4th, Jake with the 2 yard rush. First down. We should run, right?! WE DO! AY off left tackle for 3 yards. 2nd down - AY off right tackle for 11 yards. First down! Great job line! Great job AY! Keep feeding him!! First Down on the 10 yard line - run it right? Nope. Pass. Incomplete. 2nd down - screen to Sims for 3. 3rd down - pass to Chaney. Incomplete. 25 yd FG missed.
Am I missing something here? Until Indiana was able to stop our run, there is NO REASON to go away from it. FORCE them to stack the box. Iowa didn't do this, though.
Frustration, to say the least.
Give Albert Young the Damn Ball Already!
What should Team A do offensively against Team B?
Team A has at its disposal a 3rd year starting senior running back who, by the time he leaves the program, will most likely rank in the Top 5 (and possibly Top 3) on that said school's all-time rushing list. Team A is matched up against Team B, which has one of the worst rushing defense in all of college football, at home. Team A is starting an inexperienced, 1st year redshirt sophomore QB who will be throwing the ball to four freshman receivers.
What's the answer? Here's the incorrect answer (one that played out this past Saturday):
15 rushes by the senior running back, and 7 rushes by his backup (each rush averaging over 6 yards per carry for both backs), for a total of 22 rushes. On the other side of things, 42 passes from the green QB. Negative rushes by the #1 running back? ZERO. Number of sacks taken by the QB? NINE.
Team A, the Iowa Hawkeyes. Team B, the Indiana Hoosiers.
A look at the rushes by Albert Young and Damian Sims vs. the Indiana Hoosiers this past Saturday:
ALBERT YOUNG WAS NEVER STOPPED ON CONSECUTIVE RUNS.
Look, I know that you have to run to open up the pass... and you have to pass to open up the run. But the fact is this; Indiana was not loading the box. Indiana did not consistently put 7 or 8 in the box to stop the run. Iowa was running at will on Indiana. The Hoosiers could not stop the Iowa running game. So what does Iowa's offensive coordinator, Ken O'Keefe, decide to do? Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass.
Give me a break.
You have a guy in your backfield who is on the verge of becoming one of the Top 3 rushers all-time at the University of Iowa and you don't have the common sense to give him the ball 25-30 times in this game?? Iowa wasn't up against USC's front 7 or Ohio State's front 7. No... They were up against INDIANA'S FRONT SEVEN! Run the damn ball. Give the ball to Albert Young. When you are averaging 6 yards a rush, it doesn't take a mathematician to realize how that calculates into first downs, and ultimately TDs. Yes, Iowa was down in the ballgame, but not down enough to completely abandon the ONLY THING that was working against one of the nation's worst rush defenses in the entire nation.
KEN O'KEEFE, GIVE THE DAMN BALL TO ALBERT YOUNG. ENOUGH OF THIS ALREADY.
Team A has at its disposal a 3rd year starting senior running back who, by the time he leaves the program, will most likely rank in the Top 5 (and possibly Top 3) on that said school's all-time rushing list. Team A is matched up against Team B, which has one of the worst rushing defense in all of college football, at home. Team A is starting an inexperienced, 1st year redshirt sophomore QB who will be throwing the ball to four freshman receivers.
What's the answer? Here's the incorrect answer (one that played out this past Saturday):
15 rushes by the senior running back, and 7 rushes by his backup (each rush averaging over 6 yards per carry for both backs), for a total of 22 rushes. On the other side of things, 42 passes from the green QB. Negative rushes by the #1 running back? ZERO. Number of sacks taken by the QB? NINE.
Team A, the Iowa Hawkeyes. Team B, the Indiana Hoosiers.
A look at the rushes by Albert Young and Damian Sims vs. the Indiana Hoosiers this past Saturday:
1st-10, Iowa40 | 14:54 | A. Young rushed to the left for 7 yard gain |
2nd-12, Iowa48 | 10:43 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 9 yard gain |
2nd-6, Ind27 | 8:24 | A. Young rushed to the left for 3 yard gain |
2nd-10, Iowa2 | 5:38 | D. Sims rushed to the left for 1 yard gain |
1st-10, Iowa14 | 3:12 | D. Sims rushed up the middle for 17 yard gain |
2nd-2, Iowa39 | 1:38 | D. Sims rushed to the right for 2 yard loss |
1st-10, Iowa41 | 8:24 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 4 yard gain |
2nd-6, Iowa45 | 7:46 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 21 yard gain |
1st-10, Ind34 | 7:21 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 3 yard gain |
1st-10, Ind24 | 4:55 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 3 yard gain |
2nd-7, Ind21 | 4:10 | A. Young rushed to the right for 11 yard gain |
1st-10, Iowa17 | 13:18 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 1 yard gain |
1st-10, Iowa35 | 10:41 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 9 yard gain |
2nd-1, Iowa44 | 10:07 | A. Young rushed up the middle for 2 yard gain |
1st-10, Iowa46 | 9:44 | A. Young rushed to the left for 13 yard gain |
2nd-10, Ind41 | 9:10 | D. Sims rushed to the right for 12 yard gain. D. Sims fumbled. D. Sims recovered fumble |
1st-10, Ind16 | 8:36 | D. Sims rushed up the middle for 4 yard gain |
2nd-6, Ind12 | 8:00 | A. Young rushed to the left for 2 yard gain |
2nd-10, Iowa23 | 1:41 | D. Sims rushed to the left for 2 yard gain |
1st-10, Iowa25 | 14:43 | A. Young rushed to the left for 1 yard gain |
1st-10, Ind41 | 12:26 | D. Sims rushed to the right for 4 yard gain |
4th-2, Ind33 | 10:36 | A. Young rushed to the right for 6 yard gain |
ALBERT YOUNG WAS NEVER STOPPED ON CONSECUTIVE RUNS.
Look, I know that you have to run to open up the pass... and you have to pass to open up the run. But the fact is this; Indiana was not loading the box. Indiana did not consistently put 7 or 8 in the box to stop the run. Iowa was running at will on Indiana. The Hoosiers could not stop the Iowa running game. So what does Iowa's offensive coordinator, Ken O'Keefe, decide to do? Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass. Pass.
Give me a break.
You have a guy in your backfield who is on the verge of becoming one of the Top 3 rushers all-time at the University of Iowa and you don't have the common sense to give him the ball 25-30 times in this game?? Iowa wasn't up against USC's front 7 or Ohio State's front 7. No... They were up against INDIANA'S FRONT SEVEN! Run the damn ball. Give the ball to Albert Young. When you are averaging 6 yards a rush, it doesn't take a mathematician to realize how that calculates into first downs, and ultimately TDs. Yes, Iowa was down in the ballgame, but not down enough to completely abandon the ONLY THING that was working against one of the nation's worst rush defenses in the entire nation.
KEN O'KEEFE, GIVE THE DAMN BALL TO ALBERT YOUNG. ENOUGH OF THIS ALREADY.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
2007-08 Outlook / Predictions for the Iowa Hawkeye Mens Basketball Team
A week ago, the non-conference schedule was released for the Iowa Mens Basketball program.
One thing to note is the insane amount of home games. The only games they leave Carver are for the SP tourney and then two other IN-STATE games... they only leave the state once!! That's great news for the team and its fans. Great news.
My predictions:
Fri., Nov. 9 Idaho State Iowa City W
Wed, Nov. 14 Northern Colorado Iowa Ciy W
Sun., Nov. 18 #Florida Gulf Coast Iowa City t W
Tue., Nov. 20 #Maryland-Eastern Shore Iowa City W
Fri., Nov. 23 (Iowa vs. Bradley; Utah State vs. Vanderbilt) South Padre W
Sat., Nov. 24 vs. Utah State or Vandy South Padre L
Mon., Nov. 26 Wake Forest Iowa City W
Fri., Nov. 30 Louisiana-Monroe vs. Iowa Iowa City W
Sat., Dec. 1 Rice or Eastern Ill. Iowa City W
Wed., Dec. 5 at Northern Iowa Cedar Falls, IA L
Sat., Dec. 8 at Iowa State (Cy-Hawk Series) Ames, IA L
Fri., Dec. 14 Drake Iowa City W
Sat., Dec. 29 Southeastern Louisiana Iowa City W
Iowa 10-3 OOC sets them up nicely for the Big Ten.
Lickliter couldn't have asked for a nicer OOC schedule to get his team some confidence.
Couple that with my early Big Ten predictions:
18-13 is what I got for my early-on look... That would be fantastic for Iowa's first year under Lickliter. No NIT, No NCAA because of an awful SOS and RPI, coupled with a losing Big Ten record.
Why such a positive prediction for a team lacking talent and depth?
Too many people see Iowa and say the cupboard is bare. That's rubbish. It's not well stocked, but it's not barren.
Iowa has a huge lack in depth, but they bring back a good amount of experience.
Freeman will be entering his third year, and he is the catalyst of the team.
Johnson has one of the best strokes in the Big Ten.
Losing Smith is the kicker, though. He would have no doubt been a Big Ten 1st Teamer on this team and would have given Iowa a very dynamic backcourt with Freeman and Johnson.
Tate, Gorney, Looby, and Palmer will take their turns downlow. Obviously this will be issue most of the season (to see how they adjust).
I don't know what to expect from Angle, he may strive in this new system.
The freshman have a lot of potential and anything out of them is a huge positive... Who knows? Peterson may be starting at PG this year. Kelly might be getting more PT than anyone thought possible. Cole will bang down low for us and help on the boards.
We don't have the DJ Whites, the Eric Gordons, the Drew Neitzels, etc... but I think we have a team that wants to win and wants to do so together. There will be growing pains with this team, but the good thing is we get to grow up at home (which is the exact opposite of what happened last year when Iowa couldn't get off the road in the beginning of the season). Don't underestimate the value of playing at home, couple that with the ultra-weak out of conference schedule, and Iowa is setup to have a very productive first 1/3 of the season. The middle part of the season will see Iowa struggle because they play a very tough BT schedule to open up. However, the last 3rd of the year, Iowa has a VERY favorable schedule and could reel off some wins.
So where do the points come from?
You have to think the leading scorers will be Freeman and Johnson combining for at least 25 PPG.
With Lickliter's offense you would guess that Gorney is going to get about 7 to 10 a game. He is going to be able to shoot that 12-17 foot jumper (and let's be honest, he has a very nice stroke from there). If he gets 6-10 looks a game I can see him hitting 50% of those, which is about the amount of points I'd expect him to get.
Tate will get his point off boards (the little we will get this year).
Angle is a real unknown. He really does have a nice shot, but hasn't really had the opportunity to put the ball up very much. Is this the system to make it happen? I don't know. JR won't be an All-Big Ten kind of guy, but I think he has a chance to be a steady contributor. Has added some pounds to his frame.
Palmer. Who knows? You'd like to think he could be another guy to put up 8 a night, but I haven't seen enough from him to give a good enough judgment. I do know he eager to finally get back on the court.
Combined, I honestly believe we can get 10-15 PPG from our freshmen. Peterson seems to be ready to jump right into the lineup and give us 5 PPG and be one of the top assist men in the Big Ten (believe it). While Jake was a pleasant surprise to those who have watched him play. Cole is aggressive and will get his points off of boards for the most part. I don't know how well these guys will play. It's not like they are of the Rose or Mayo or Gordon mold where you can say for certain what you are going to get. I think they can contribute enough to be productive for Iowa. With 11 players on the roster, they will undoubtedly get playing time.
Looby isn't going to bring much offensively, we know that. Maybe he has worked on his hook a bit more and will do something on that end this year. Anything from him is a bonus.
Bohall - not sure. Seems to have a fantastic stroke from the outside, but I just haven't seen enough from him to be sure he can be productive. Look like he has added some muscle over the year.
I guess the real issue is that Iowa has only 11 guys on the team. To me, that's the real issue at hand. We will see what our incoming class will bring because you would think that they are going to be seeing significant time this year. Lickliter loves to sub in fresh guys, so to say everyone on the team will have to make a contribution is an understatement.
That's why they play the games
I look forward to seeing what this team can do on the court. I don't discount the fact that this can be looked at as a "down year", but I will not resign to the fact that some Hawk fans (and national pundits) think this team is going to finish last in the conference and barely get double-digit wins. That's just not going to happen if the team stays healthy.
Iowa's win total will be right around 18 because:
1.) The only time Iowa plays away from Carver-Hawkeye Arena in the non-conference is for the South Padre tourney and then to Iowa St and UNI. That's a severe advantage.
2.) A lot of cupcakes on the non-conference slate.
3.) LINK
We shall see...
ON IOWA - GO HAWKS!
One thing to note is the insane amount of home games. The only games they leave Carver are for the SP tourney and then two other IN-STATE games... they only leave the state once!! That's great news for the team and its fans. Great news.
My predictions:
Fri., Nov. 9 Idaho State Iowa City W
Wed, Nov. 14 Northern Colorado Iowa Ciy W
Sun., Nov. 18 #Florida Gulf Coast Iowa City t W
Tue., Nov. 20 #Maryland-Eastern Shore Iowa City W
Fri., Nov. 23 (Iowa vs. Bradley; Utah State vs. Vanderbilt) South Padre W
Sat., Nov. 24 vs. Utah State or Vandy South Padre L
Mon., Nov. 26 Wake Forest Iowa City W
Fri., Nov. 30 Louisiana-Monroe vs. Iowa Iowa City W
Sat., Dec. 1 Rice or Eastern Ill. Iowa City W
Wed., Dec. 5 at Northern Iowa Cedar Falls, IA L
Sat., Dec. 8 at Iowa State (Cy-Hawk Series) Ames, IA L
Fri., Dec. 14 Drake Iowa City W
Sat., Dec. 29 Southeastern Louisiana Iowa City W
Iowa 10-3 OOC sets them up nicely for the Big Ten.
Lickliter couldn't have asked for a nicer OOC schedule to get his team some confidence.
Couple that with my early Big Ten predictions:
Opponent | W/L |
Indiana | L (0-1) Hoosiers take it easily. |
at Wisconsin | L (0-2) Tough fought game, but Wisky wins by double-digits. |
at Ohio State | L (0-3) Matta beats Lick. |
Michigan State | L (0-4) Don't be surprised if this one is tight at the end; Iowa has a shot in this one. |
Purdue | W (1-4) Iowa wins this one in a close contest. |
at Michigan | W (2-4) Iowa wins by single-digits. |
at Indiana | L (2-5) Don't see Iowa staying close in this one. |
Penn State | W (3-5) Iowa will have a tough battle with PSU finally putting a decent team on the court, Iowa holds off though. |
at Purdue | L (3-6) This one could go either way. |
Ohio State | L (3-7) Iowa will play well at home and give the Buckeyes a battle, but don't have enough to win. |
Wisconsin | L (3-8) I have confidence that Iowa can win this game, but I would need to see Iowa's out of conference results first. |
at Minnesota | W (4-8) Iowa big in the barn. |
Michigan | W (5-8) Iowa wins big at home. |
Northwestern | W (6-8) Iowa gets on a three game win streak, beating the kitties at home |
at Michigan State | L (6-9) No chance. |
at Penn State | W (7-9) This one will probably be a loss, but I needed a tossup game to go Iowa's way. |
Illinois | L (7-10) Another toss up game, Illini win it. |
at Northwestern | W (8-10) The hex is gone. Iowa wins. |
18-13 is what I got for my early-on look... That would be fantastic for Iowa's first year under Lickliter. No NIT, No NCAA because of an awful SOS and RPI, coupled with a losing Big Ten record.
Why such a positive prediction for a team lacking talent and depth?
Too many people see Iowa and say the cupboard is bare. That's rubbish. It's not well stocked, but it's not barren.
Iowa has a huge lack in depth, but they bring back a good amount of experience.
Freeman will be entering his third year, and he is the catalyst of the team.
Johnson has one of the best strokes in the Big Ten.
Losing Smith is the kicker, though. He would have no doubt been a Big Ten 1st Teamer on this team and would have given Iowa a very dynamic backcourt with Freeman and Johnson.
Tate, Gorney, Looby, and Palmer will take their turns downlow. Obviously this will be issue most of the season (to see how they adjust).
I don't know what to expect from Angle, he may strive in this new system.
The freshman have a lot of potential and anything out of them is a huge positive... Who knows? Peterson may be starting at PG this year. Kelly might be getting more PT than anyone thought possible. Cole will bang down low for us and help on the boards.
We don't have the DJ Whites, the Eric Gordons, the Drew Neitzels, etc... but I think we have a team that wants to win and wants to do so together. There will be growing pains with this team, but the good thing is we get to grow up at home (which is the exact opposite of what happened last year when Iowa couldn't get off the road in the beginning of the season). Don't underestimate the value of playing at home, couple that with the ultra-weak out of conference schedule, and Iowa is setup to have a very productive first 1/3 of the season. The middle part of the season will see Iowa struggle because they play a very tough BT schedule to open up. However, the last 3rd of the year, Iowa has a VERY favorable schedule and could reel off some wins.
So where do the points come from?
You have to think the leading scorers will be Freeman and Johnson combining for at least 25 PPG.
With Lickliter's offense you would guess that Gorney is going to get about 7 to 10 a game. He is going to be able to shoot that 12-17 foot jumper (and let's be honest, he has a very nice stroke from there). If he gets 6-10 looks a game I can see him hitting 50% of those, which is about the amount of points I'd expect him to get.
Tate will get his point off boards (the little we will get this year).
Angle is a real unknown. He really does have a nice shot, but hasn't really had the opportunity to put the ball up very much. Is this the system to make it happen? I don't know. JR won't be an All-Big Ten kind of guy, but I think he has a chance to be a steady contributor. Has added some pounds to his frame.
Palmer. Who knows? You'd like to think he could be another guy to put up 8 a night, but I haven't seen enough from him to give a good enough judgment. I do know he eager to finally get back on the court.
Combined, I honestly believe we can get 10-15 PPG from our freshmen. Peterson seems to be ready to jump right into the lineup and give us 5 PPG and be one of the top assist men in the Big Ten (believe it). While Jake was a pleasant surprise to those who have watched him play. Cole is aggressive and will get his points off of boards for the most part. I don't know how well these guys will play. It's not like they are of the Rose or Mayo or Gordon mold where you can say for certain what you are going to get. I think they can contribute enough to be productive for Iowa. With 11 players on the roster, they will undoubtedly get playing time.
Looby isn't going to bring much offensively, we know that. Maybe he has worked on his hook a bit more and will do something on that end this year. Anything from him is a bonus.
Bohall - not sure. Seems to have a fantastic stroke from the outside, but I just haven't seen enough from him to be sure he can be productive. Look like he has added some muscle over the year.
I guess the real issue is that Iowa has only 11 guys on the team. To me, that's the real issue at hand. We will see what our incoming class will bring because you would think that they are going to be seeing significant time this year. Lickliter loves to sub in fresh guys, so to say everyone on the team will have to make a contribution is an understatement.
That's why they play the games
I look forward to seeing what this team can do on the court. I don't discount the fact that this can be looked at as a "down year", but I will not resign to the fact that some Hawk fans (and national pundits) think this team is going to finish last in the conference and barely get double-digit wins. That's just not going to happen if the team stays healthy.
Iowa's win total will be right around 18 because:
1.) The only time Iowa plays away from Carver-Hawkeye Arena in the non-conference is for the South Padre tourney and then to Iowa St and UNI. That's a severe advantage.
2.) A lot of cupcakes on the non-conference slate.
3.) LINK
We shall see...
ON IOWA - GO HAWKS!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Big Ten Men's Basketball Schedule Released: My Very Early Iowa Game Predictions
Very early Big Ten Predictions:
Opponent | W/L |
Indiana | L (0-1) Hoosiers take it easily. |
at Wisconsin | L (0-2) Tough fought game, but Wisky wins by double-digits. |
at Ohio State | L (0-3) Matta beats Lick. |
Michigan State | L (0-4) Don't be surprised if this one is tight at the end; Iowa has a shot in this one. |
Purdue | W (1-4) Iowa wins this one in a close contest. |
at Michigan | W (2-4) Iowa wins by single-digits. |
at Indiana | L (2-5) Don't see Iowa staying close in this one. |
Penn State | W (3-5) Iowa will have a tough battle with PSU finally putting a decent team on the court, Iowa holds off though. |
at Purdue | L (3-6) This one could go either way. |
Ohio State | L (3-7) Iowa will play well at home and give the Buckeyes a battle, but don't have enough to win. |
Wisconsin | L (3-8) I have confidence that Iowa can win this game, but I would need to see Iowa's out of conference results first. |
at Minnesota | W (4-8) Iowa big in the barn. |
Michigan | W (5-8) Iowa wins big at home. |
Northwestern | W (6-8) Iowa gets on a three game win streak, beating the kitties at home |
at Michigan State | L (6-9) No chance. |
at Penn State | W (7-9) This one will probably be a loss, but I needed a tossup game to go Iowa's way. |
Illinois | L (7-10) Another toss up game, Illini win it. |
at Northwestern | W (8-10) The hex is gone. Iowa wins. |
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Give Jacque Jones Playing Time, He Will Deliver
All year I’ve been preaching that once Jacque Jones gets consistent ABs and regular playing time, he will contribute offensively. Previously, I had no stats to back up my claims, so I decided to do some digging. Here’s the analysis. To simplify my point, here’s a look at Jones’ average over the course of the year. Yes, I could also show OBP, SLG, etc… but I wanted to keep it simple. I calculated the stats by hand, so I might have a few errors, but the overall trend is very striking.
April 2 through May 5: Started 24 of 28 games. 97 ABs .299 AVG (.299 overall)
Jones’ playing time starts to decrease and his stats do, as well.
May 6 through June 5: Started 18 of 28 games. 77 ABs .156 AVG (.241 overall)
June 6 though July 8: Started 12 of 31 games. 45 ABs .200 AVG (.233 overall)
ALL-STAR BREAK
Jones’ playing time starts to increase and his stats do, as well.
I think it’s pretty glaring that point has been well made.
Give Jones’ regular PT, and he will deliver.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
2007 Iowa Football Depth Chart (Updated Aug 7th, 2007)
OFFENSE SE Andy Brodell James Cleveland LT Dace Richardson Andy Kuempel LG Julian Vandervelde Dan Doering C Rafael Eubanks Travis Meade RG Seth Olsen Tyler Blum OR Wes Aeschliman RT Kyle Calloway Alex Kanellis TE Tony Moeaki Brandon Myers WR Dominique Douglas Trey Stross RB Albert Young Damian Sims FB Tom Busch Jordan McLaughlin PK Austin Signor OR Daniel Murray | DEFENSE DE Ken Iwebema Adrian Clayborn DT Matt Kroul Rashad Dunn DT Mitch King Anton Narinskiy DE Bryan Mattison Chad Geary OLB AJ Edds Jeremiha Hunter MLB Mike Klinkenborg Bryon Gattas WLB Mike Humpal Pat Angerer LC Adam Shada Drew Gardner OR Chris Rowell SS Devan Moylan OR Lance Tillison FS Brett Greenwood OR Harold Dalton RC Charles Godfrey Bradley Fletcher PT Ryan Donahue Eric Guthrie |
Courtesy of Hawkeyenation.com
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Previously On... Showbiz Show's David Spade
David Spade = Awesome.
Check out the "Previously On"s Below... too funny...
PREVIOUSLY ON... INTERVENTION (BLACKBERRY ADDICTION)
PREVIOUSLY ON... JUDGE JOE BROWN
PREVIOUSLY ON... GREY'S ANATOMY
PREVIOUSLY ON... TUDORS
David Spade = Awesome
Check out the "Previously On"s Below... too funny...
PREVIOUSLY ON... INTERVENTION (BLACKBERRY ADDICTION)
PREVIOUSLY ON... JUDGE JOE BROWN
PREVIOUSLY ON... GREY'S ANATOMY
PREVIOUSLY ON... TUDORS
David Spade = Awesome
Monday, August 06, 2007
SAFETY ADVICE: Keep Your Keys Next to Your Bed
Alright, I am not one to pass along forwards. In fact, I downright despise forwards (unless they contain some sweet pics or funny video). However, just as I was in the process of deleting a particular forward, I started to read it. In it contained some decent advice. Take a look.
GREAT IDEA:
Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies. This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator.
Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it. It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain. It works if you park in your driveway or garage.
If your car alarm goes off, when someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the burglar or rapist won't stick around.... after a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that.
And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there..... This is something that should really be shared with everyone. Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime.
PS. I am sending this to everyone I know because I think it is fantastic. Would also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can't reach a phone.
Not a bad idea at all...
GREAT IDEA:
Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies. This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator.
Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it. It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain. It works if you park in your driveway or garage.
If your car alarm goes off, when someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the burglar or rapist won't stick around.... after a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that.
And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there..... This is something that should really be shared with everyone. Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime.
PS. I am sending this to everyone I know because I think it is fantastic. Would also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can't reach a phone.
Not a bad idea at all...
Monday, July 09, 2007
CONFIRMED: Iowa Will Not Be Getting Grant Gibbs
Looks like Coach Lickliter, although late to the recruiting party for Grant Gibbs, will lose another recruiting battle for an in-state player (see Clayton Vette).
Gibbs will be going to Iowa State or Gonzaga
Please, please, please let it be the Zags.
I am highly disappointed Lickliter was not able to keep a guy 30 miles from Iowa City. Yes, I realize it initially sat on the shoulders of Alford to start the recruitment, which he bombed on. However, I do think Coach Lickliter had enough time with Gibbs to get him to stay close to home and play for the Hawks.
We'll see if it's ISU or Gonzaga... I just do not want to see him in those awful Clone colors.
Gibbs will be going to Iowa State or Gonzaga
Please, please, please let it be the Zags.
I am highly disappointed Lickliter was not able to keep a guy 30 miles from Iowa City. Yes, I realize it initially sat on the shoulders of Alford to start the recruitment, which he bombed on. However, I do think Coach Lickliter had enough time with Gibbs to get him to stay close to home and play for the Hawks.
We'll see if it's ISU or Gonzaga... I just do not want to see him in those awful Clone colors.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
MOVIE REVIEW: TRANSFORMERS
Finally... it happened. Michael Bay made a movie that didn't suck. He did it. I credit a lot of that to Steven Spielberg's guidance, of course.
I just got back from the 9:00 PM show tonight (7/2/2007), and I cannot stop talking about what I just witnessed. Transformers is easily one of the best movies I have watched in the past decade. Is it Oscar worthy? Maybe not. But these things are for sure: the characters were believable, the special effects were unreal, the plot line was absolutely solid, and you will have a BLAST watching it. Those in charge of this movie stayed true to the original Transformers cartoons and made adjustments where they had to (e.g. - giving Optimus Prime lips). I am not one for overdosing on CGI, but this movie proved that it really can make a huge impact when done correctly. The CG was just perfect (what do you expect with ILM?), with incredible detail on the Autobots and Decepticons.
Fox and LaBeouf have fantastic on-screen chemistry, both were very convincing in this movie
I just got back from the 9:00 PM show tonight (7/2/2007), and I cannot stop talking about what I just witnessed. Transformers is easily one of the best movies I have watched in the past decade. Is it Oscar worthy? Maybe not. But these things are for sure: the characters were believable, the special effects were unreal, the plot line was absolutely solid, and you will have a BLAST watching it. Those in charge of this movie stayed true to the original Transformers cartoons and made adjustments where they had to (e.g. - giving Optimus Prime lips). I am not one for overdosing on CGI, but this movie proved that it really can make a huge impact when done correctly. The CG was just perfect (what do you expect with ILM?), with incredible detail on the Autobots and Decepticons.
Fox and LaBeouf have fantastic on-screen chemistry, both were very convincing in this movie
The eye candy in this movie was abundant, yet not overdone (Megan Fox is a knockout). I was extremely worried going in that Michael Bay was going to butcher the movie by sticking in a love story that was forced on the audience. Not the case in this movie, which was a HUGE relief. The on-screen romance was a nice undertone and played out very well. There were a couple corny parts in the movie, but even those were extremely bearable. The soundtrack was pretty decent, but the score was incredible... one of the better scores I have heard in a long time. Most movies nowadays have product placement throughout, this one was no exception. Obviously GM paid some money to get their new vehicles in the flick (2009 Camaro (bumblebee), H2 (ratchet), Solstice (Jazz), etc...), but it wasn't so blatant as to take away from the experience. Also, Megatron doesn't turn into a gun because, let's be honest, how were they going to pull that off?
The makers of the movie obviously left the movie wide open for a number of sequels. Hopefully the movies following this one can measure up to its originality and genuine fun it provides.
I will be back in the theater to watch this movie again, bet on it.
FINAL GRADE: A-
The makers of the movie obviously left the movie wide open for a number of sequels. Hopefully the movies following this one can measure up to its originality and genuine fun it provides.
I will be back in the theater to watch this movie again, bet on it.
FINAL GRADE: A-
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