Wednesday, December 31, 2008

FOOTBALL: Mitch King is All Iowa

http://www.kcrg.com/sports/36916344.html?video=YHI&t=a

Monday, December 22, 2008

IOWA - IOWA STATE 2008: It's STILL the HAWKEYE STATE (Video)

Recap of the Iowa-Iowa State Football, Basketball, and Wrestling Head to Head Matchups.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sykRkEC_fLE&fmt=18

And the ISU Blooper Reel, of course:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXhQuW6Ll94&fmt=18

If you want the high quality, original video, I have it on my mostlynothing.com site. This is the original piece, but due to YouTube restrictions on length (10 min), I had to edit it. Here is the original in all it's 13 minute glory.

Friday, December 19, 2008

MEN'S BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Drake Bulldogs Preview

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS

GAME INFO: Sat., Dec 20, 2008 - 3:05 PM CST - Knapp Center; Des Moines, IA
IOWA: 9-2 (0-0); POM: 42; RPI: 72 / DRAKE: 8-3 (0-0); POM: 128; RPI: 143

TV COVERAGE: ESPNU
LISTEN ONLINE - http://www.kscj.com/
OFFICIAL GAME NOTES - HERE
LINE - Iowa is a 2 point underdog on road.

Coach Lickliter had mentioned a few weeks ago that his team needed more practices and less games. With Finals Week finishing up, Coach got his wish. Iowa hasn't hit the hardwood for over a week (since its romping of rival, Iowa State). The winner of the Iowa-Drake will be declared the King of Iowa... I think that equates to something funny, but can't think of anything remotely worth adding.

Drake is a pretty smart team, but don't fool yourself, this isn't Keno or Dr. Tom's Bulldog squad. They are going to play efficient ball, however they are not close to the level they were at last year. Face it, Drake had a magical year in 07-08, but that enchanting season has come to an end and the Bulldogs are sliding back to where they have been in recent years. The point spread for this game has me dumbfounded.

Anthony Tucker has been allowed to return to practice with the team, and Lickliter stated he would be available for this game, but couldn't forecast if (or how much) he would play. My thoughts are that Tucker would be the 9th player off the bench in this one, if he gets that shot. Obviously, if some of the guards get into foul trouble, Tuck is going to be called on.

KEYS TO THE GAME FOR IOWA:
1.) Control the Tempo. Iowa wants to keep this game in the half-court set. If the Hawks can set up their offense each time down, they'll get a LOT of good looks against Drake.
2.) Handle the Press. You won't see Dr. Tom's press in this one, but I am still amazed that teams aren't coming at Iowa with full court pressure every time out. If Drake decides to throw one in there, Iowa had better be ready to handle it.
3.) Play Solid Defense. We'll likely see Man to Man D once again in this one.
4.) Get Cyrus Tate Involved. This key is going to be permanent on this list for each game for obvious reasons. Tate is really good down low. Iowa doesn't get him the ball enough. That's really the bulk of the point right there.

PREDICTION:
Iowa - 70
Drake - 62

Sunday, December 14, 2008

MEN'S BB: Rejoice! Iowa Now Has Successful Inbound Plays: The Anatomy of a Perfectly Designed and Executed Inbounds Play

Iowa - Iowa State Game

Following a timeout... 8 seconds left on the shot clock, Iowa needs get a good look right out of inbounds play. They get just that, thanks to a terrifically designed play.


The Setup. Gatens will cut out to the left wing.


Ball inbounded by Kelly from the baseline to Gatens on the left wing, Bawinkel starts down the lane.


As soon as Gatens passes the ball out to the top to Davis, Bawinkel (who was at the left elbow) comes down to the low block and sets a screen on the player defending the inbounds pass (Kelly's man).


Jake looks like the first option to all onlookers as he flashes across the lane - by doing this Bawinkel's man hedges and the player who was initially guarding Kelly follows in tow.


With Kelly taking two defenders with him, Bawinkel curls and is able to step behind the three point arc on the left wing.


Gatens then sets a pick on his own man to deny help coverage.


Bawinkel's man doesn't have enough time to get back to the shooter. The shot is off.


Nothing but net.

It's been a while since Iowa fans have seen this sort of play calling in Carver, and I can't tell you how nice it is to see it return. Nothing fancy, but a terrific play call, nonetheless.

Here's the video of the play:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIEz8CjSyJQ

Friday, December 12, 2008

MEN'S BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Iowa State Cyclones

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS. http://www.mostlynothing.com/uploaded_images/ISTATE-758047.jpg

GAME INFO: Fri., Dec 12, 2008 - 7:05 CST - Carver-Hawkeye Arena; Iowa City, IA
IOWA: 8-2 (0-0); POM: 47; RPI: 83 / IOWA STATE: 6-2 (0-0); POM: 137; RPI: 205

TV COVERAGE: BTN: Steve Schlanger and Shon Morris will call the action.
LISTEN ONLINE - http://www.kscj.com/
OFFICIAL GAME NOTES - HERE
LINE - Iowa is a 8 point favorite at home.

Iowa looks for the sweep (in the sports that matter - football, wrestling, basketball) against ISU for 2008. Lickliter didn't give a definitive answer as to if Tucker would be back for this game, but all signs point that Anthony will remain in street clothes. Jermain Davis should pick up minutes, as will Bawinkle. The more PT Davis is getting, the more comfortable he is looking on the court. If Iowa's bigs cannot stay out of foul trouble (ahem, Brommer), the Hawks will have a great deal of difficulty stopping ISU's inside game. The good thing for Iowa is that even if ISU is constantly pounding it down low, the Hawks can always stay in the game with their outside shooting prowess.

Lucca Staiger went Monkey Banana Ape Crap against Drake last time out (8-11 from behind the arc), but the Clones couldn't take down the Bulldogs despite having a large lead. ISU's guard play (or lack thereof) is really going to hurt the Clones in this game, as they are severely over-matched in this area. On the other hand, they have the overwhelming advantage on the blocks (who doesn't vs Iowa this year?). Game planning will be crucial to the success of ISU, Mac will have to be up for the challenge. And don't forget, #5 is back.

LIKELY STARTING LINEUPS:
IOWA
Peterson
Davis
Gatens
Fuller
Tate

IOWA STATE
Garrett
Petersen
Staiger
Thompson
Brackins


KEYS TO THE GAME FOR IOWA:
1.) Contain Brackins. You aren't likely going to stop him, but get a body on him and play hard-nose D all night against him. Let Brommer use his five fouls in 2 minutes on him if you have to.
2.) Handle the Press. If Mac has done any scouting against Iowa, he would know that Iowa's turnovers increase dramatically when a press is installed. And without Tucker to help bring the ball up, Iowa State can take advantage by pressing.
3.) Convert on the Blocks. Iowa has missed far too many bunnies this season, and it will eventually bit them in the butt at some point.
4.) Get Cyrus Tate Involved. He doesn't get near enough touches as it is. I realize ISU has some trees down low, but Cy needs to get more touches in the flow of the offense.

PREDICTION:
Iowa - 71
Iowa State - 64

Thursday, December 11, 2008

MEN'S BB: Word on the Street is Alex Thompson Still Plays for Iowa State

I kid you not, Alex Thompson is still playing college basketball. Thompson has absolutely EXPLODED since he left the University of Iowa for greener pastures (yes, those pastures on the ISU campus to be exact). The timeless wonder is averaging a whopping 3.4 points per game while averaging 23 minutes per contest... wait, what? His average playing time is over a half of a ball game and he is averaging 3.4 points per game? Nice... 27 points on the year in 188 minutes. Um, Bryan Peterson averages more points than Alex Thompson, former All-Stater. He is being out-rebounded by two guards on his own team so far this year... but I hear he TEARS it up in practice (he schools Brunner on a constant basis, you know).


Hey, at least he got rid of the all-black tennies. (Photo - ESPN.com)

So the last time anyone really heard from #5 was back in 2006 (yes, like 2 and a half years ago)... and by "anyone", I mean anyone. Watchable footage of Alex Thompson in game was harder to track down than legit Bigfoot tape. However, this 30 second highlight has been uncovered - bask in it, as it all that exists.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvX5Fu25Ok0

And truth be told, the only reason I uploaded that clip is because Kendra Haluska is in it.

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/06VF2Xo5Cm2nH/340x.jpg
This is the only other photo of Alex Thompson that exists on the Intraweb.

Ok, wait, this one, too:
http://www.johnwarnerfc.co.uk/alex_thompson03.jpg
For some reason, this looks like a different Alex Thompson, though.

#5 is gone, we welcome #14 back to Carver-Hawkeye Arena on Friday (the last time he was in Carver he was redshirting from his transfer to ISU from Iowa). Best of luck to Mr. Thompson in his return to Iowa City, may the waning days of his basketball career continue to treat him well.

FOOTBALL: Shonn Greene Wins the 2008 Doak Walker Award


Photo by Rodney White/Des Moines Register


Mad props go out to Shonn Greene for winning the Doak Walker Award for 2008!

Whether it was having the Play of the Year in the Big Ten or taking home the Silver Football, Shonn Greene is on his way to an award-filled postseason. He's an All-American. He is Iowa Football. Greene just completed arguably the best season by a running back in the history of the Iowa program, and we are lucky to have witnessed it. While I'd like to get all sentimental reflecting back at the season that was Shonn Greene, BHGP (HawkeyeState specifically) does a far better job than I could dream of - READ HIS STORY HERE IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY.

Congrats to Shonn; thanks for the memories!

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

FOOTBALL: Shonn Greene is NOT a Finalist for the Heisman Trophy

And neither is Graham Harrell.

Epic fail by those involved in the voting.

Greene was, by far, the best running back in the nation. Did he have a shot to win it? Hell no, but he deserved to be invited to NYC.

What a crock.

Sunday, December 07, 2008

Thursday, December 04, 2008

MEN'S BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Bryant Bulldogs

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS.

GAME INFO: Fri., Dec 5, 2008 - 7:35 PM CST - Carver-Hawkeye Arena; Iowa City, IA
IOWA: 6-2 (0-0); POM: 68; RPI: 73 / Bryant University: 1-4 (0-0); POM: 267; RPI: 177

TV COVERAGE: Big Ten Network. Mark Neely, Spencer Tollackson (former Gopher) and Lauren Bohlander will call the action.
LISTEN ONLINE - http://www.kscj.com/
OFFICIAL GAME NOTES - HERE
LINE - Really? You are looking for a line on this game?



Iowa returns home from a long road trip to face Bryant University this Friday. What do you mean you've never heard of Bryant? It's that independent school up in Rhode Island with a yearly tuition of $40K* and a student demographic of 2,669 men and 1,607 women**. Their lone victory of the year was over Quinnipiac (presumably a territory, parish, or province in Canada), a team that has a Pomeroy rating of 300+. Needless to say that if Iowa loses this game, they might as well start Lil' Lick for the rest of the season.

* - No joke, check out Wikipedia.
** - This ratio constitutes the mandatory label of Sausage Party.

KEYS TO THE GAME FOR IOWA:
1.) Cyrus Tate with a MINIMUM of 10 field goal attempts.
2.) Get Anthony Tucker back on track.
3.) Play solid defense.
4.) Rebound.

PREDICTION:
Iowa - 78
Bryant - 53

Monday, December 01, 2008

MEN'S BB: The Hawkeyes Through the First 7 Games (6-1)

The Hawkeyes Through the First 7 Games (6-1) of the 2008 Season


Tate's Buzzer Beater vs. Kansas State (Photo courtesy of the AP)

STARTING LINEUP


Anthony Tucker, before last game, had scored in dbl digits every single game to start his career. Excellent outside shooter (we knew that already). Can rain threes. Was off last game, but has a short memory. Needs to get tougher, D is a liability. Good handles, good passer, can get into the lane if he has to. Best shooter on the team.

Matt Gatens has fouled out of the last two ballgames, he is Big Ten ready right now. Doing all the things to make his team better. Can get frustrated at times, when he has good looks at the basket, he has made almost all of them. Good passer, good handles for his size, needs to rebound more. Great looking shot, too.

Aaron Fuller still seems undersized and will get eaten up in Big Ten play, but he plays very, very hard and has a great motor. Lacks a little on the D end, has trouble finishing near the basketball, has shown the ability to knock down the 3 ptr as well.

Jeff Peterson is stronger than last year, but I still see the tendencies of last year creeping in (driving into traffic, leaving his feet, forcing shots, etc...) However, he has kept his turnovers in check and has distributed it well. Has also hit some nice runners and treys from time to time.

Cyrus Tate has not been getting the ball downlow at all. A couple games ago he didn't even attempt a shot (that should NEVER happen). Isn't quite at the level he was at the end of last year, but he is working extremely hard down low and he will be key to our success this year. Rebounding very well this season and getting in good position, just needs more touches from the guards. Buzzer beater at the end of the KSU game for the win.

OFF THE BENCH

It's not who starts, it's who finishes.

Jake Kelly is the first guy off the bench (I'd assume because of his broken finger). I don't think he has an issue coming off the bench. He is coming in with a lot of fire and looks really good. There have been some sweet, sweet dribble drives by him, and some step back jumpers that have been really smooth. He has worked on his game and it shows. Our best all around player, in my opinion. His defense is very, very good this year so far. Really like what I see with him.

Jarryd Cole just is not in game shape yet. He hasn't been able to really do a lot of basketball things over the summer and he is still recovering from the ACL. Right now he doesn't look like the Jarryd of last year, he needs to continue to be weaned into the games. Hopefully by BT season he is ready.

Jermain Davis is a guy that is doing a lot of good things out there. Great handles, can get into the lane, plays good D, probably could work on his outside shot a bit more. Very athletic and can get up with anyone his height.

Andrew Brommer is the least refined of the new guys, as expected. He plays hard, which I liked. Very aggressive near the basket, but has a problem with fouls. Also has a problem with foul shooting, not the prettiest of FT shots.

Devan Bawinkel has a pretty good stroke (not as good as Tucker, Kelly, or Gatens), but he really suffers on the D end. Limited PT so far.

David Palmer could be the next Sam Perkins if he got more PT. He can stroke it from downtown, but other than that I don't know what else he can bring. He is still learning this new system, too. Limited PT.

JR Angle has only gotten mop up minutes.

Lil Lick has only gotten a few minutes of PT.

We are seeing about 9 players in the rotation right now.


Current Ratings for Big Ten Basketball Teams (RPI/KenPom)

It's still early, but fun to take a look... check out the discrepancies between the Pomeroy ratings and the RPI ratings. This is how out of whack these things can get this early in the season.

FWIW - in all my years following statistics, ratings, etc.... Pomeroy's system is far superior to that of the RPI. Far superior. Pomeroy's stats take in so much more than the RPI, once he figures out how to cap the scoring margin, it will be nearly flawless.

KENPOM:
4. Ohio State
10. Purdue
22. Northwestern
27. Michigan State
28. Illinois
34. Wisconsin
57. Minnesota
59. Penn State
71. Iowa
74. Michigan
249. Indiana

Others of Note:
156. ISU
189. UNI
157. Drake

3 Big Ten Conference                  .9148


RPI:
7. Illinois
16. Michigan
20. Northwestern
24. Michigan State
28. Wisconsin
32. Minnesota
62. Purdue
75. Ohio State
93. Iowa
146. Indiana
148. Penn State

Others of Note:
233. ISU
174. UNI
142. Drake

Conf. RPI Rank: 1 Conf. SOS Rank: 3

The Big Ten is UP this year, some will disagree, but it's the truth. The Big Ten is a better conference than last year.

TIER 1:
Michigan State
Purdue

TIER 2:
Ohio State
Wisconsin

TIER 3:
Minnesota
Penn State
Illinois
Michigan
Iowa
Northwestern

TIER 4:
Indiana

Saturday, November 29, 2008

MEN'S BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Kansas State Wildcats

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS.

GAME INFO: Sat., Nov 29, 2008 - 6:30 CST - Orleans Arena; Las Vegas, NV
IOWA: 5-1 (0-0); KenPom: 68/ Kansas State: 5-1 (0-0); KenPom: 82

TV COVERAGE: None (that I know of)
LISTEN ONLINE - http://www.kscj.com/
LINE - Iowa is a 5 point underdog at the neutral site.


Iowa takes on KSU tonight at 6:30 CST in the consolation round of the Las Vegas Invitational. Last night Iowa was out-physicalled (totally a word, by the way) by West Virginia. It was a rough and tumble first half where Iowa couldn't get much going (mainly because they turned it over 17 times in the first half). The mugging stopped in the second half courtesy of the refs actually calling fouls. Tucker lit it up again from behind the arc, scoring in double digits again (6th straight to start his career).

Kansas State forced something like 31 turnovers in the loss to Kentucky last night, so Iowa will be up against it as well. Iowa needs to hold onto the ball, they have been shooting well all season, but they don't get enough possessions to hang with some of the better teams.

No TV for the game as far as anyone knows - it might be shown on the FSS sports channel, but don't bank on it. LISTEN HERE

If Iowa can hold onto the ball, they can absolutely win this one... if the turnovers plague them, it will be a long, long night.

PREDICTION
Iowa - 67
Kansas State - 74

Friday, November 28, 2008

Men's BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. West Virginia Mountaineers

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS.

GAME INFO: Fri., Nov 28, 2008 - 8:05 CST - Orleans Arena; Las Vegas, NV
IOWA: 5-0 (0-0); RPI: 56 / West Virginia: 3-0 (0-0); RPI: 8

TV COVERAGE: MASN and SNY - DIRECTV (Ch. 639 and 640) and on the sportpack / DISH Network (Ch. 432). Mediacom will carry the game, as well.
LISTEN ONLINE - http://www.kscj.com/
OFFICIAL GAME NOTES - HERE
LINE - Iowa is a 9.5 point underdog at the neutral site.

The Mountaineers are a very dangerous, physical team. De'Sean Butler is probably their best player, but Alex Ruoff is guy that can really create match-up problems with his height and overall game. WVU also has a stud frosh in Devin Ebanks, who, in my opinion, could be their best player by the end of the year; he can do everything. The Mountaineers have shot the ball well through 3 games, esp. from 3 pt land. Overall, the Mountaineers are going to come out very tenaciuous tonight and Iowa had better be ready to be physical. WVU has a pretty stacked starting 5, but they can afford to be aggressive, as they are a very, very deep team.

Anthony Tucker for the Hawks continued his hot shooting last time out and, once again, finished with double digits points (his fifth straight to start his collegiate career) - AT finished the last game with a double-double (pts and boards). Look for Tate and Cole to be a bit more involved in the game tonight, as Iowa will need the on the glass and physical on the D end, as well. This game has special meaning for Devan Bawinkel, as he was shown the door by Mountaineer coach, Bob tHuggins back when he played for WVU two years ago.

KEYS TO THE GAME FOR IOWA:
1.) Handle the Press. There's no guarantee that WVU will press, but it would seem very likely if tHuggins did any sort of prep work for this game that he would be pressing Iowa all game long.
2.) Guard-Play Under Control. Peterson, Kelly, Tucker, Gatens all need to play poised tonight against a very hard-nosed backcourt from WVU.
3.) Limit Turnovers. Obvious.
4.) Knock Down the Open Jumpers. Iowa isn't going to get a lot of open looks tonight, they need to knock them down when they get them.

PREDICTION:
Iowa - 55
West Virginia - 64

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

OT: Sex in the Metrodome - More Info Released

This could get ugly, very quickly now that the details are coming out. It could be a he said, she said deal.

Feldman, the female in the article(s), says she doesn't remember anything according to the local Carroll paper.

The Des Moines Register's updated story says that it has ruined her life. She was fired from her job and has been outed.

Either someone is not telling the truth or we could have some HUGE legal issues arise from this.

I never know what to believe in these sort of deals, but who really does? Normally the people involved.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

OT: Who Knew Iowa Football was an Aphrodesiac?

Illegal Use of Hands? You betcha'!

This is probably why they don't serve alcohol in Kinnick:
Iowa Fans Busted Having Sex in Metrodome Bathroom

I guess the fact that Iowa was up 55-0 was just too much for these two... No word if there was any foot tapping involved in the Metrodome stall.

I don't know what's more intriguing - the fact that there were 15 other people gawking at the lovefest or the fact that both people involved were cheating on their significant other. Imagine the walk back to the car after the game? Aaaaaaaackwaaaaaaaaard...

Proof enough that there was much more spanking occurring than just on the field on Saturday.

According to a WCCO report, the woman gave a false middle name. I doubt that happened, my guess is she was too drunk to remember.

Thanks for the link, Lane.

Monday, November 24, 2008

BHGP: A Picture Essay of the Win Over Minnesota (fossilhawk fanpost)

One of the funnier sports related items I've read in a while...

A picture essay of the win over Minnesota [BHGP]

Just a sample...
http://images.icanhascheezburger.com/completestore/2008/11/23/128719569436878388.jpg

Take a look at the link, you'll be glad you did.

FOOTBALL: Shonn Greene is a Doak Walker Finalist



Shonn Greene, Jevon Ringer, and Knowshon Moreno are your 2008 Doak Walker Award finalists.

Congrats, Shonn.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Men's BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Oakland Grizzlies

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS.

GAME INFO: Sun., November 23rd, 2008; Carver-Hawkeye Arena - Iowa City, IA
IOWA: 3-0 (0-0) / Oakland 1-2 (0-0)

TV COVERAGE: Big Ten Network - DIRECTV (Ch. 610)
LISTEN ONLINE - http://www.kscj.com/

LINE - NO LINE

Oakland's sole victory this year was Oregon's only loss, so Iowa should be ready for a team that going to give them a bigger challenge than The Citadel.

Gatens and Tucker have both scored in double digits in the three games to start their careers. I don't know the record for consecutive dbl digit scoring to start a career or if Iowa has ever had two froshes do it for even three games. With that aside, both Tucker and Gatens look very impressive on the court. Gatens looks like he is a Big Ten junior on the court, not only in stature, but in poise, as well.

Oakland did lose a key player to a foot injury about a week ago, so the team that took down Oregon is not the same one in Iowa City tonight. He was their top scorer, I believe.

Keys to the Game for Iowa
1.) Get Cole and Tate involved early. They have been nearly invisible early on this season.
2.) Big contributions from the froshes, specifically Gatens and Tucker.
3.) Stay out of foul trouble down low.


PREDICTION:
Iowa - 72
Oakland - 58

Saturday, November 22, 2008

FOOTBALL: 2008 Week Twelve - Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers Preview

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS. GophUpSide.gif picture by storminspank

GAME INFO: Sat., Nov. 22, 2008 - 6:00 PM CST - The Metrodome; Minneapolis, MN
IOWA: 7-4 (4-3) NR; MINNESOTA 7-4 (3-4)

TV COVERAGE: BTN (HD)
IOWA'S GAMEDAY CENTRAL : VIEW HERE


LINE: Iowa is a 6 point favorite on the road.




All good things much come to an end, and even some awful things must come to an end, as well. Today marks the day when the last Minnesota - Iowa football game will ever be played in the Metrodome (i.e. - Kinnick North). Floyd of Rosedale has been in Iowa City the past year and I fully expect him to remain there. Minnesota has lost 3 in a row (I predicted they'd drop the final 4 of the season at the end of October), while Iowa has won 4 out of their last 5. Iowa has a very good chance to wind up in a January Bowl game, something that would have sounded silly last month. As long as Ohio State and Penn State both get BCS bids (meaning the Buckeyes need to beat Michigan and hope Oregon St loses one of its last two game), the Hawks, with a win, will likely be headed to Tampa Bay and the Outback Bowl. Even if Northwestern finishes ahead of Iowa with a 9-3 record, you can bet that the Hawks will get taken by the Outback. Furthermore, don't be surprised that even if Iowa loses and NW wins, that Iowa doesn't still take that bowl from NW even though it has 2 fewer wins (the Outback is one of the bowls that is exempt from the 2 win rule, as is the Alamo).

We are heading to Minneapolis shortly, to sit amongst the Gopher season ticket holders midfield, 20 rows up. Should be a blast - going to hit up the warehouse district before and after the game.

Enough of the babble - let's look at this game...

Eric Decker has been penciled in to start this game, but I have a hard time thinking he is 100%, or even 50% for that matter. A high ankle sprain is a hard injury to kick in a few weeks time. The Gophers are going to need to him to stretch Iowa's secondary. Without Decker, Iowa is going to be able to sit back in their regular defense and allow MN to dink and dunk, but I would be very surprised to see them do deep on Iowa with their current personnel. MN is also very young up front, so Iowa DL should be able to do a lot of damage. Adam Weber scares the crap out of me with his moxy and escapablity, however if Decker isn't effective, the Hawk will be able to spy him all game (a la - Juice Williams).

Iowa really doesn't have much on the offensive side of the ball to work with... unless you are talking about Shonn Greene - oh yeah, him. The nation's leading rusher and likely winnner of the Doak Walker Award and undoubtedly a first team All-American. Greene is going to run wild on the Gophers - look for 200+ yards in this one as well. Stanzi, once again, just needs to manage the game for Iowa to pull out the win.

Offensive Player of the Game: Shonn Greene
Defensive Player of the Game: Pat Angerer



PREDICTION:
Iowa - 38
Minnesota - 27

Gopher administrative bodies are hoping the goal posts can come down quickly tonight.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

FOOTBALL: R.I.P. KINNICK NORTH!!

As we say goodbye to the Metrodome, let's look at the day the goalposts left the Dome...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnUoQZUAdvA

Rest in Pieces, Kinnick North!

EDIT: Marc Morehouse sees it as one of the greatest moments in college football rivalries. I couldn't agree more.

MEN'S BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. The Citadel Bulldogs

See my prev. post about the game streamed.

Hope some of you can watch it.

This game will conclude the home and home these two teams had. Two of the coaches on The Citadel's staff are originally from Iowa (D-port, I believe). Iowa shouldn't have much trouble in this game, if they do, we are in serious trouble. In the season opener, The Citadel barely defeated a Bible School (no lie).

Jake Kelly and Jarryd Cole are still nursing injuries.
Look for the starting lineup of:
Peterson
Tucker
Gatens
Fuller
Tate

Iowa should be able to use Tate frequently down low.

PREDICTION:

Iowa - 78
The Citadel - 59

MEN'S BB: Pay $5, Watch the Hawks Take on The Citadel

Bulldog Insider Game Day Pass: Basketball, November 20, 2008
Type: One Time
Watch as the Bulldogs take on the Hawkeyes of Iowa in McAlister Field House for exciting basketball action. The game begins at 7:05 p.m. and will have a 30 minute pregame show beginning at 6:35 p.m. Catch all the action for only $4.95.

Watch the game here:
https://www.nmnathletics.com//flexReg/doReg.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=9700



Release from Iowa Sports Information
:
Webcast Available For Game At The Citadel



Fans can now watch tonight's game at The Citadel via webcast.

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HEADLINES
Webcast Available For Game At The Citadel

Hawkeyes Face First Road Test at The Citadel

Hawkeye Basketball Adds Second Recruit

RELATED LINKS
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Nov. 20, 2008

IOWA CITY - Hawkeye fans will now be able to watch Thursday's basketball game at the Citadel through a webcast at citadelsports.com. Fans will be required to pay a one-time fee of $4.95 to watch the game.

Fans interested in purchasing the webcast should click HERE

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

FOOTBALL: Anyone see a pattern the past two weeks?

http://www.mgoblue.com/uploadedImages/Sports/Football/Articles/2000s/2008-2009/Recaps/brownjug-110808_300.jpg

Wisconsin vs. Minnesota

Here's hoping this week continues the trend...

Monday, November 17, 2008

MEN'S BB: Iowa Hawkeyes vs. UTSA Roadrunners

I will not be providing a game preview for this game on the account that I am mad at the BigTenNetwork.com.

The first two games have not been viewable, therefore I don't know what to expect.

Is this a cop-out because I haven't had time to write a preview? Absolutely.

But I am still pissed at the Big Ten Network.

They mucked up the Iowa-Purdue game on DirecTV, they didn't broadcast the Exhibition game vs. Wayne State, and the stream for the CSU game was weaker than an old man peeing.

So here's the prediction at least -

Iowa - 76
UTSA - 58

Tucker hits 5 treys. Gatens goes for 14. Tate gets a double-double.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

FOOTBALL: 2008 Week Twelve - Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Purdue Boilermakers Preview

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS.
GAME INFO: Sat., Nov 15th, 2008 - 11:05 AM CST - Kinnick Stadium: Iowa City, IA
IOWA: 6-4 (3-3) NR / PURDUE 3-7 (1-5) NR

TV COVERAGE: BTN (HD) will televise the game to a national cable audience (609 on DirecTV). Thom Brennaman, Chris Martin and Anthony Herron will call the action.
DEPTH CHART AND GAME NOTES: VIEW HERE
IOWA'S GAMEDAY CENTRAL : VIEW HERE

KIRK'S PRESSER: VIEW HERE
LIVE BLOG THREAD: Gazette (Marc, Mike, and Scott)

LINE: Iowa is a 17.5 point favorite at home




Senior Day is here. Three months ago, this day seemed like ages away. It's afun day to be at Kinnick, but it's also sad because you realize the season is at its waning point. It will also be Joe Tiller's last time coaching inside of Kinnick.

My, oh my, how one week changes things! Iowa went from no one in the eyes of the national media to "savior of the BCS" after taking down Penn State last weekend. Expectations are high once again for this Hawkeye squad. If Ohio State and Penn State win their remain games, and Iowa follows suit, the Hawkeyes are undoubtedly heading to Tampa for a bowl. Who would have thought that after the loss to Illinois?

Iowa was embarrassed last year in West Lafayette. They haven't forgotten. Purdue is another squad running the spread (who doesn't these days?). I really like the way Iowa matches up with the Boilermakers. Iowa has the better offense, the better defense, the better special teams, the better coaching staff, the home field advantage, and the Senior Day effect. I don't see a let down in this one.

Purdue allows a ton of yardage, yet their scoring D has been pretty good as of late. Iowa, on the other hand has been stout throughout the year on the D end. Purdue's offense is lead by Heisman Trophy contender, Curtis Painter and Iowa has a huge question mark at running back.... oh, wait... that was preseason. And I wasn't buying it. Shonn Greene could run for 1250 yards in this one and 15 TDs.

Shonn Greene remains the only player in D-1 football with 100+ yards in every single game this season. He's a horse, and a horse that Iowa should ride to the win today. Stanzi will need to remain poised in this one, but as we saw last weekend, even when he gets knocked down, he gets right back up. Iowa can get away with mistakes in this one, but not as many mistakes as the NW game.

Offensive Player of the Game: Shonn Greene (Doak Walker, Heisman, et al contender - give it up this dude)
Defensive Player of the Game: Matt Kroul (Senior Day - go get em, Matt). I would have gone with Mitch King, but he got a buzz cut and we all remember the story of Samson.



PREDICTION:
Iowa - 34
Purdue - 17

Friday, November 14, 2008

Men's BB: SEASON OPENER! Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Charleston Southern

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS. http://www.campusexplorer.com/media/376x262/Charleston-Southern-University-DAA9712D.gif

GAME INFO: Fri., November 14th, 2008 - 7:00 PM CST - Carver-Hawkeye Arena: Iowa City, IA
IOWA: 0-0 (0-0); RPI: NA / Charleston Southern 0-0 (0-0); RPI: NA

TV COVERAGE: BigTenNetwork.com - HERE'S THE FEED
OFFICIAL GAME NOTES - VIEW HERE
LINE - NO LINE
LIVEBLOG(S) - BlackHeartGoldPants, I will be guest hosting it for the guys.

8 months + 1 day since the last Iowa BB game. It feels like it has been forever.

I don't know anything about Charleston Southern, but here's their roster.

We don't know a lot about this team (7 new faces), but here's the preview I wrote this summer on BHGP. But we do know they will be better this year than last. Very excited to see this team in action.

Short preview this game just because it's the early game of the season.

PREDICTION:
Iowa - 72
Charleston Southern - 49

Sunday, November 09, 2008

MEN'S BB: I Hate You BigTenNetwork.com

Thanks to their great technology, we can't see the Iowa-Wayne State game. This just released from the company.

Iowa game not available due to technical difficulties





The Iowa-Wayne State exhibition game Sunday will not be streamed due to technical difficulties at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. We apologize for the trouble and hope to be able to offer an archived version of the game at a later date.

Thanks for your understanding.

http://www.bigtennetwork.com/news/article.asp?story_id=3176681&list_id=1

You don't have my understanding. Sorry.

Friday, November 07, 2008

FOOTBALL: Adam Rittenberg from ESPN's Big Ten Blog is in Iowa City

Follow his entries here: http://myespn.go.com/blogs/bigten

While I don't always agree with what he says, you have to admit he knows his stuff and does a great job of collecting info on the Big Ten.

FOOTBALL: 2008 Week Eleven - Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Preview

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/7/7c/Iowa_Hawkeyes_Logo.svg.png VS.
GAME INFO: Sat., Nov 8th, 2008 - 2:37 PM CST - Kinnick Stadium - Iowa City, IA
IOWA: 5-4 (2-3) NR / PENN STATE 9-0 (5-0) #2/#3

TV COVERAGE: ABC (HD) will televise the game to a regional audience. Fans not in the ABC regional footprint can watch the game on ESPN (HD). The game will also be available online at ESPN360.com. Brad Nessler, Bob Griese, Paul Maguire and Stacey Dales will call the action.
DEPTH CHART AND GAME NOTES: VIEW HERE
IOWA'S GAMEDAY CENTRAL : VIEW HERE
ABC COVERAGE MAP : VIEW HERE
KIRK'S PRESSER: VIEW HERE

LINE: Iowa is a 7.5 point underdog at home.





Photo Courtesy of Hawkeyesports.com

One thing that is blatantly obvious at this point in the season is that Shonn Greene is good. Real good. Greene is a man among boys on the field, and he should be able to run effectively in this game as long as Stanzi can relieve pressure and stop PSU from loading the box. Getting Seth Olson back for the game can't hurt his productivity either. The University of Iowa has started to embrace the "Shonn Greene for Heisman" talk, as well, with their Black Out / Greene Out for the game.



Penn State QB Daryll Clark's head might not be 100% on Saturday either. In recent reports, Clark has admitted to blacking out during the Ohio State game after he took a couple hard hits. If Iowa can get to him early, it might be enough to get him out of his comfort zone. Evan Royster continues to be overlooked by a lot of national pudnits, but Iowa is most certainly aware of his game. The Nittany Lions will be bringing the Spread HD (Highly Diverse) offense to Kinnick tomorrow, yet Iowa might be content to sit back in their base defense to defend it. However, PSU is going to run the Iowa secondary ragged, so don't be surprise to see Norm Parker add some extra DBs during different points of the game.

Penn State's defense is very underrated and if they follow the blueprints set by Illinois, they should be able to contain Shonn Greene. This will force the game into the hands of Ricky Stanzi, a plan that worked for the Illini last week. This game will undoubtedly be decided by the effectiveness of Stanzi, who seems to play better at home than on the road (or does he?). Stanzi needs to eliminate the mistakes he has been having in recent weeks.

Iowa most definitely can hang with Penn State on their defense alone. Iowa is not severely overmatched by the Nittany Lions.

KEYS TO THE GAME:
- Turnovers
- Redzone Offense vs. Redzone Defense

Offensive Player of the Game: Shonn Greene (for the 10th straight week)
Defensive Player of the Game: Pat Angerer

The bottom line is that Iowa is a very good 5-4 team. Penn State's 9-0 record is nothing to scoff at (and neither is their #2 national ranking). Make no doubt about it, Iowa will have its hands full in this one. However, the snow and cold should help level the playing field a little bit and the Hawkeye faithful will do their part in helping Iowa out. This game is absolutely winnable for the Hawkeyes. That said...



PREDICTION:
Iowa - 17
Penn State - 21