Pitt Panther Football: What A Mess

First and foremost, Happy New Year everyone. Hard to think 2010 has come and gone, but it has.

For Pittsburgh Panther fans it has been a tough year in football. They had high hopes of dominating the Big East, the season culminated with the firing of Coach Dave Wannsted.

My experience has been bringing in a new coach revitalizes a team and the fan base. Hope springs eternal that now we get things turned around. Pitt hired its new coach,Mike Haywood, combine that with the new recruiting class and Pitt fans had alot to be excited about.

The end to a disappointing season and firing of the coach just got worse. Pitts new year starts off very badly for them because of their new coach who as of this writing is sitting in and Indiana jail cell charged with domestic battery.

Just when Panther did not think it could get any worse, it has. It is being reported that Pitt recruits are dropping off their list fast. The whole program is in total disarray.

As a BSU homer I have had to listen to years of former Pitt player and ESPN announcer Mark May slam my Broncos. Guess its my turn to stick a jab at Mayday.

The following came from a Boise State message board toasting the mighty Mark, who loves to toast the non AQ schools.

"Clearly, this is a smear campaign, paid for by non-Automatic Schools like Boise State or BYU..."


Pitt is in serious trouble and as of yet has made no comment. There really is nothing they can say, they have scant information to work with. Their legal position whether to fire or not fire has got to be tenuous at best. They really are in a no win situation.

For more on the Pitt situation: Pitt Coach Arrested

Harmon Killebrew

The name Harmon Killebrew won't register with most people reading this blog, unless you were a baseball fan in the 1960s.

Harmon played for the Washington Senators that later became the Minnesota Twins. He hailed from the small town of Payette, Idaho, not to far from where I grew up in Boise.

Around here he was a legend, wow, a guy from Idaho playing pro baseball, for us spud peelers that was a pretty big deal. Just like Jerry Kramer another Idaho playing for Green Bay.

Harmon is in his 70s now living in Arizona and he is sick. He has been diagnosed with a form of throat cancer. It is sad for me to see this part of life, my childhood heroes getting old and getting sick. Like most I still tend to think of them as they were, young and invincible.

I would ask those reading this blog to take a moment and say a prayer for Harmon Kellebrew. He was and is always a class act and a gentlemen. I met him once at an autograph singing back in the early 60s he could not have been more gracious.

In his day the heroes were heroes on the field and you seldom heard of scandals like you do in today's sports world.

Learn more about Harmon Killebrew. Hammerin Harmon Killebrew

Football Training Equipment and DVDs

Dont Hate The Bird-Hate The Game

That was posted earlier on the net along with other disparaging remarks. Sadly they were talking about the Independence Bowl played in Shreveport, La.

Part of the part of the pregame show included the Air Force Academy releasing its mascot, "The Bird" for a pregame flight around the stadium. After his release and pre-approved was done the bird took liberties and went AWOL.

I did not see the game featuring Air Force and Georgia Tech and from all reports I did not miss anything. Some speculated the bird knew what a snoozer it would be and that is why he sought out the night life of Shreveport circling the city.

Apparently the birds AWOL took up to three quarters of the game before he was recaptured and brought back for to Independence Stadium for the post game festivities.

In what turned out be as boring a game as predicted, you have two offenses using the triple option, they produce good running attack but little offensive fire works, Air Force won in a squeaker by a score of 14-7. So as the man said, dont hate the bird for flying the coupe hate a game that was so boring even the Air Force mascot took flight.
Football Training Videos

Little Caesars Bowl

Tonight's Little Caesars Bowl featured The Toledo Rockets from the MAC Conference and Florida International University's Golden Panthers from the Sun Belt Conference. I must admit I was surprised to see FIU in a bowl game. My most recent memories of FIU was seeing lopsided scores in the many body bag games they have played in recent years.

I full expected Toledo to take the Golden Panthers to the woodshed. Not that I had anything against FIU. We played Toledo this season and it looks better on the resume if teams you beat win their bowl game.

Going into the half it looked as if picked this one right with Toledo leading 21-7. Midway through the 3rd quarter Toledo kicked a field goal and created what appeared to be an insurmountable 17 point lead.

On the ensuing kickoff things got interesting. Receiver T.Y Hilton took the kick off and returned it 89 yards to the house cutting the Rocket lead back to 10 and giving the Golden Panthers the much needed spark to keep the game close.

The momentum did seem to change of the Hilton touchdown return. Three plays into Toledo's kick off return drive the Panthers struck again. Aided by a Rocket penalty the FIU Panthers were able to get to the Toledo 17 and from there Darriet Perry made it a 3 point game.

The rest of the third quarter played out with little action either way. Later in the 4th quarter Hilton made his presence felt again as he caught the go ahead touchdown for the Golden Panthers making it a 31-24 score and their first lead in their first bowl game appearance in school history.

Toledo did not role over and play dead, they drove down the field and Terrance Owens capped the drive with a touchdown, bringing the Rockets within one point and about 1:16 left on the clock. When Toledo punched it in the coach left no doubt as to the Rockets intent as he held up two fingers, they were going for the win. Toledo scored the two point conversion and took a one point lead.

The ensuing kick off was a squibb kick that FIU was able to return to almost the 50 yard line with over a minute left on the clock and needing very few yards to get into field goal range.

FIU found themselves in a make of break 4th and 17 and 48 seconds on the clock. It reminded me instantly of my Boise State Broncos who in the 4th quarter had a 4th & 18 with 18 seconds to go, trying to tie the game.

Like Boise State the Golden Panther were successful in converting the game deciding down. It was very close, by less than a yard T. Y. Hilton had risen to the occasion again. The Panthers were able to get more yardage after the new first down and kick the winning field goal leaving no time on the clock, thus winning their first ever bowl appearance. Florida International played their first college football game in 2002 and only became a FBS team in 2005. They are the fastest team to ever go from D1AA to D1A status. Congrats to both teams for great seasons and to Florida International University for making it to a post season bowl in 5 short years and for your first of many bowl victories to come.

Football Coaching Videos & DVDs

17th Christmas

I was not sure if I wanted to post this but have decided to do so anyhow.

This Christmas day marks 17 years since I had my last drink. For me it is the Christmas present that keeps on giving. Because of the decision back in 1993 I can look forward to more Christmas days, knowing my triplet nieces better and maybe even dance at their weddings. They are only 11 and I am 61 but who knows.

Any how to all of you who read this blog, thank you and may you and your family have a wonderful and happy holiday season. Thanks and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Andy

Merry Crhistmas

Seems impossible another year has come and gone and that it is Christmas day but it is.

I just want to thank all you that have followed this blog over the last year and wish all of you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a wonderfully Happy New Year.Andy

Goal Post Controversy

The effects from Boise States missed field goal in the closing seconds against Nevada have apparently found their way to the NCAA.

The controversy is about the height of the Nevada goal posts. There is a contingency of fans who swear Brotzman's first kick was good and then of course those that say no, he missed it.

The cause for the debate is centered around the height of the Nevada goal posts. They are not the standard 20 foot high posts like most colleges and the NFL. Had they been that height, there would be no controversy.

The NCAA is looking at next season making all college goal posts a mandatory 20 ft high. A little late for the BSU Nevada game but it certainly makes sense to have a standard goal post height for every college football field.

Check out the ATI Strength Training Shoes, they will help you run faster and jump higher

Kyle Brotzman's Swan Song

Kyle Brotzman has had more press than any field goal kicker this season or for any season that I can remember. It started with his missed 26 yard field goal attempt with one second left that would have preserved Boise States perfect season instead of sending the game into overtime. Minutes later Brotz misses a 29 yarder and Boise lost to Nevada in overtime, dashing their hopes for the Rose Bowl.

This week was another week of alot of pregame press focused on Brotzman and how the Utah contingent were taunting him even during the game with signs that read wide right.

Tonight in the Maaco Bowl held in Las Vegas Kyle played his final collegiate game, needing only three points to become the all time leading scorer in college football history.

A year ago in the Fiesta Bowl against TCU, the team that replaced Boise for this years non AQ and is playing in the Rose Bowl, Brotz was a hero. Midway through the 4th quarter deep in Bronco territory Brotz faked the punt and calmly threw a perfect strike to Kyle Effaw for a first down that set up the game winning score.

This year in the first half Boise tried another fake punt against the Utah Utes. Brotzman took the snap and pitched the ball to Austin Pettis who came from the left wide receiver slot. Brotz then circled out left and became the primary receiver. He as wide open, had a sure first down and nothing but green grass in front of him. He took his eyes off the ball and tried to run before he made the catch, dropped pass.

I began to think this is the most snake bit kid I have ever seen. Trailing 3 to 0 Boise finally scores in the second quarter and Kyle comes to within one point of tying the all time scoring record. Later in the first half Boise is in has to attempt a field goal. Twenty nine yards from hero or goat Brotzman lines up and finally breaks his three field goals missed streak and puts it right down Broadway.

I think even the Utah players and fans were glad to see this kid get the monkey off his back and become the all time leading scorer in college football. Even the announcers Herbstreit and Musburger talked more about he made than he set a new record.

Overall Brotzman had a mixed night, he went 2 for 3 on field goals, one was blocked and had a dropped pass. However Utah was held to just 3 points and Brotzman had a role in keeping them out of the end zone. He had two touchdown saving tackles on special teams.

Over all it was a fitting end to great career at Boise State, he will be missed and I do hope he gets his shot at pro ball. Than you Kyle Brotzman for the memories and all you did for Bronco Football.

Field Goal Kicking DVDs

The Tale Of 2 Quarterbacks

Tomorrow night Boise State and the Utah Utes tee it up in the Maaco bowl in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is one the more popular non BCS Bowl match ups. ABC is sending the A team of Brent Musburger and Kirk Herbstreit.

Boise State will start Kellen Moore who finished 4th in this years Heisman Race. Moore is undoubtedly one of the best quarterbacks in college football today. He has over a 71% completion rate with 5 picks and very few sacks.

Outside of Utah little is know about back up quarterback Terrance Cain who will be starting for the Utes. He is stepping in for the injured Jordan Wynn who has had shoulder surgery.

Personally I think this gives Utah an edge, the unknown quantity factors into this game. Boise has been able to see little tape on this kid and so he will be more challenging to defend against.

Here is why he will be challenge. When he left high school he moved onto Blinn Jr. College where he preceded Cam Newton. his first year at Blinn was the kind of season every QB dreams about. In 2007 he started his collegiate career with stunning numbers, he set a national Jr College record by completing 71.1 percent of his passes. He kept his foot on the accelerator and in 2008 he led the nation with 3,138 passing yards.

In 2009 he left Blinn to join the Utah Utes and became their starting quarterback and had a strong 7-1 record and was still benched in favor of Jordan Wynn.

This season Cain started against New Mexico and UNLV and had a quarterback rating of 24 points higher than Wynn.

Perhaps the game against BYU is why Wynn was chosen over Cain. Coming into the game in relief of Wynn, Cain had his worst performance as a Ute. He went 2-7 and had two picks.

What he does bring to the table more so than Wynn is his legs. During his career at Utah Cain averages about 50 rushing yards per game, where as Wynn has never rushed for more than 15 yards in a single game.

What Cain brings to this game tomorrow night is a back up who is as good as most starters in the country plus a good set of legs that can make a defense pay. Tape wise he is the unknown quantity but his record precedes him and Boise State has said they need to be ready and not give him any openings to control the game.

Cool Trick Play Wins Class 5A Division I state championship

Ranked #37 Pearland High (Texas) faced the #5 ranked Eules Trinity High (Texas) for the state championship. Even though Pearland was undefeated they were the underdog to the Trinity Trojans, one of the countries most balanced and feared high school football teams.

The Oilers wanted to get a fast start on Eules and keep their foot on the gas peddle so they pulled out all the stops in the title game, including a tried but true trick play if it can be sold.

Leading 14 to 10 in the third quarter the Trojans called " The Dead Man" play. Pearland sold the play so well that quarterback Trey Anderson was able to throw a 54 yard scoring strike to wide receiver Sam Ukwyachu making it a 21-10 game.

It really was the kind of play the Oilers needed to put a wide gap between themselves and the Trinity Trojans who never gave up and came roaring back to make it a 28-24 game.

Sounds like both teams gave it their all and are to e congratulated for a fine season and great game.

Use the following link to see the trick play and how it works. Dead Man Play

Football Coaching Videos

Does Bama Take Their Football Serious

Does Alabama take football serious? You decide
Roll Tide

Boise State Football: It's More Than A Game

This year we have been told about two moving stories involving Boise State Football Fans. Stories that make it more than a game. Today we had a link to the story about the blind man and how much he depends on Bob Belher to be his eyes when he broadcasting a Bronco Game. We were told about how KBOI invited he and his wife in the broadcast both and made the Utah State Game one he and his wife will remember all their lives. How she got to hug Kellen Moore, the autographed helmet for the grandson and how Coach Pete took them into the locker room.

Saturday November 6. 2010 we got see Boise State, Coach Pete and Bronco Nation welcomed a new assistant coach to the Bronco Staff. For the first time ever, we saw our team walk out of the tunnel instead of sprinting. There was the Bronco player on the left carrying the hammer and on the right, hand in hand walking with him was the new assistant coach and 11 year old boy who wont be with us long. I was never more proud to be a BSU fan then at that moment. My eyes filled with tears seeing the two of them walking out onto the Blue.

As I read tonight's story about the blind man, it opened my eyes. Boise State and all the football teams across the country are more than just a game. When given the opportunity they fulfill dreams, make people feel special. Like a couple of years ago Pete Carroll and the USC Trojans and the youngster they adopted who lost all his vision. Pete never stood taller than in the film clip they showed of he and their kid walking hand in hand off the USC bus.

Remember Charlie Weiss? His first year as head coach at ND, he was given that rare opportunity to touch a young persons like in way that stole your heart. His involved a young boy dying of cancer. Midweek of game week Weiss went to the kids home and visited him. He brought the kid lots of ND gear and a ball, the kid was too weak to lift it.

They talked for over an hour and the kid had a play he had drawn up for the Irish and asked Weiss if he would run it. Wiess agreed to run the play and told him when in the game he would do so. Friday night before the game, the youngster died, he never got to know if ND ran the play. Weiss true to his word called the play deep in their own territory under the shadow of the goal posts and it went for a first down.

As fans we are so involved with the team, how its performing that sometimes we forget, its more than a game, its the opportunity to touch lives in a deep and profound way, like Bluka getting the South End Zone banner to the assistant coach.

All teams do the things that Boise has done, its just wonderful to know the stories and things that the Broncos have done, making it more than a game. Go Broncos

If you are a fan from another school and have stories similar to the ones that make Bronco Nation proud, please share them.

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Andy Reid Is Looking Pretty Smart

Remember last summer when Andy Reid and the Eagles traded Donovan McNabb to their hated nemesis the Washington Red Skins? People were all over Reid for the trade. Maybe he was ahead of the curve on that one.

Today it was announced that Donovan McNabb has been benched for Sunday's game in favor of Rex Grossman. Eight months ago McNabb was to be the new savior of the Red Skins, now he is third string.

From what I am reading, this benching is just the tip of the ice burg for how bad things have gotten in the Washington locker room.

Player wishing to remain unnamed to avoid the Shanahan retaliation are very angry over the benching. The see it scapegoating McNabb for poor coaching. Yet McNabbs numbers this season have not been stellar, (3,377 yards, 14 touchdowns, 15 interceptions) and he constantly misses easy throws that can be the difference between wins and losses.

Just based on McNabb's numbers it appears Andy Reid was right in trading Donovan to the Skins, weakening the competition. However it appears from what players are saying there is more to it than that.

According to NFL.com's Jason La Canfora, Red Skin players are accusing OC Kyle Shanahan of deflecting blame from himself onto McNabb.

They are saying the father son egos are out of control and that they are blaming everyone but themselves for the problems plaguing Washington.Regardless of who is right, it is a house divided.

Is Grossman the answer to tomorrows game, most likely not. His starting may be the signal that McNabb will be looking for work for the 2011 season.

Earlier this season Shanahan benched Donovan and then Washington signed him to a contract extension before he returned to the starting line up. Dont look for that to happen this time around. In the new contract extension Washington put in enough language to be able to trade McNabb or release him at the end of the season and only have to pay him $3.75 million. Shanahan did tell McNabb he may not be invited back for next season and his benching sets up a trial run for Grossman and promotes John Beck to role of back up QB.

What is sounds like is the entire Redskin camp is in total disarray and bringing McNabb over to Skins has just highlighted the much deeper issues plaguing Washington. Perhaps they need to do some major housing cleaning starting with team Shanahan and down through the ranks. I dont know what the answer is but I do know the Red Skins are not the team they used to be.

Football Coaching Videos and Training Equipment

How To Be A Linebacker

The linebacker positions are the heart and soul of the defense. More responsibility lies in their hands than any other defensive position. They are required to back up the defensive line and fill gaps to stop the run and fall back into pass protection.

In this article we will discuss the basics needed to play linebacker. We will provide the names for each of linebacker positions, where to line up, the gap assignments, the stance, how to tackle and finally how to read the play.

A. Linebacker Names

1. SAM: Strong side linebacker. SAM lines up about 5 yards behind the LOS on the outside of the tight end in the C gap. Primary duty is to stop the run.

2. Mike: Middle linebacker. Mike lines up about 5yards behind the LOS and can be on either side of the center. He is the quarterback of the defense and calls the defensive plays. He is responsible for the A gaps on each side of the center and for pass protection in the middle.

3. WILL: Weak side linebacker. WILL lines up about 5 yards deep and on the outside of the offensive tackle and is responsible for the C gap. He primarily is in pass coverage.

B. Stance

In order to create the opportunities for success at linebacker a well balanced stance is a must for the player to be able to fend off blockers, tackle effectively and be able to drop back in pass protection.

C.Base Stance:

1. Feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart toes pointed up field. This allows the linebacker to take a lateral or directional 8 to 12 inch first step with the play side foot.

2. The weight should be on the balls of the linebackers feet with his knees bent over his feet and his shoulders over his knees. The head should be straight up and eyes locked onto the quarterback. Arms relaxed off his knees.

3. From this stance the linebacker will be able to wrap up the ball carrier and drive through him to make a solid tackle.

D. Reading the Play

Reading the play is key for the defense stopping the offense and getting back
possession of the ball.

1. Watch the quarterback and see if he hands off the ball and to who, if handed
pursue the ball carrier.

2. If it is a pass play, drop back into pass coverage, watch the quarterbacks eyes and move in the direction he intends to throw the ball for pass protection. Break on the ball once it is in the air.

In conclusion a linebacker must be more than just strong and a good tackler. Linebackers have to be versatile athletes who can read plays quick, react quickly and have good speed forwards, backwards to cover pass plays and side to side for play pursuit.

Check out our linebacker coaching DVDs: Football Linebacker videos

Streaks Are Meant To End-Records Are Meant To Be Broken

For the first time since September 27,1992 Brett Favre will be on the bench with a clip board in hand watching his team play. Tonight when the Minnesota Vikings play the New York Giants, Favre will not have an active role on the field.

Favre's record, excluding play off games, is a starting quarterback for 297 consecutive games over 19 seasons. That streak ends tonight,leaving a new NFL record to be broken.

Unlike Baseball's iron man Cal Ripken who chose to sit out a game, Favre was forced to sit out tonight after taking a vicious hit from Buffalo linebacker Arthur Moats just three snaps into the Viking - Bills game.

Regardless of opinions formed about Favre over these last few seasons it is time to just look at what he has done, 297 consecutive regular season games, amazing.

What makes Favre's accomplishment so rare is the average NFL career spans less than 4 years, yet Favre lasted 19 seasons.

To put more perspective on this Peyton Manning is the current player with most consecutive starts behind #4. Manning has 205 starts and could catch Favre in 2016.

But has anyone played the position with the passion and flare Brett has exhibited through out his career? How many times have we seen BF take off running to get that first down, take on linebackers head on instead of sliding. How many times have we seen him get off the turf battered and beaten with torn muscles, concussions and broken bones only to start the following week.

Former Detroit Lions defensive tackle and football great Alex Karras once said quarterbacks should where a skirt in the backfield. Karras never met Favre at least on the gridiron. Karras was a 4 time pro bowler who also made the 1960s all NFL team who played from 1958 to 1970.

Tonight marks the passing of an era the Brett Favre consecutive starts streak leaving new record to be broken. I dont know if it will be Manning or some one else, I just hope it is some one who has the same passion for football and the same flare that belongs to the once invincible Brett Favre.

Football Training Videos & Equipment

How To Train Players In The 4-3 Defense

Basics Of The 4-3 Defense

The 4-3 defense was invented in the 1950’s and is one of the oldest most effective football defenses. This article we will focus on the basic formation of the modern era 4-3 and each player’s role. Beginning with the base formation, you can effectively modify the defense to run stunts, blitzes and different pass coverage schemes for situational downs.

Down Linemen:

1.Defensive End: Uses a 7 alignment of the outside shoulder of the tight end. His duty is to fill the c gap between the tight end and strong side offensive tackle and turn plays to the inside.

2.Defensive Tackle: Uses a 3 alignment lining up on the outside shoulder of the strong side guard and fills B gap. The best defensive tackles are the ones that can fill both A and B gaps, who can push the pocket or drop back and fill the gaps between the guards and tackles.

3.Nose Tackle: Uses a 0 or one alignment lining up between center and the weak side guard. He must be exceptionally strong and durable fighting off blocks and stuffing the run.


4.(REB) Rush End Backer or Weak Side Defensive End: Duties are to keep the running attack between the tackles and attack the weak side tackle while rushing the quarterback.

Linebackers:

1.SAM: Strong Side Linebacker, lines up 5 yards deep in a 5-6-7 alignment on the outside of the tight end. SAM remains responsible for the C gap and making sure nothing gets outside the defensive end. Since the tight end can be lined up on either side to the center the SAM and WILL must be able to switch sides.

2.Mike: Middle Linebacker is usually 5 yards off the LOS and is the quarterback of the defense calling the defensive plays. He must be strong enough to fight off blocks and quick enough to fill strong side A gap and the weak side B gap. Mike is in a 2i alignment on the out side shoulder strong side of center. Besides attacking the run between the tackles he must be able to protect the middle from crossing routes and under coverage passes.

3.WILL: Weak Side Linebacker: Is 5 yards off the LOS and if there is only a single tight end and no slot back he is a 5 alignment off the outside shoulder of the weak side tackle covering the B & D Gaps. If there is a slot or two tight ends the WILL lines up in a 7 alignment and is responsible for weak side D Gap. If it is a pass play WILL is responsible for covering the #1 receiver on the curl route, if there are two receivers he must force the #2 receiver outside past the hash mark.

Secondary:

1.Corners: Line up about 5 yards off the receiver with an outside shade alignment. (out side shade, off the outside of the receivers nose) The corners don’t take off on the snap of the ball, instead the want to remain outside the receivers and jam them towards the inside and forcing them to run up field towards the safeties. If the ball is not in the air on the third step the turn and go with the receivers for 15 yards to help the safeties protect against the long ball. Corners are also looking for the ball on the run and try to force the play inside where they have the back up of the linebackers.

2.SS: Strong Safety lines up 10 to 12 yards deep off the tight end. The primary duty of the SS is run support with the SAM. Pass plays have the SS playing a cover 2 and is responsible for the long pass and receivers on his side of the field. He can play as a free safety here and breaks on the ball only when it is in the air. He must keep everything in front of him.

3.FS: Free Safety lines up 10 – 12 yards of the LOS between the #1 receiver and the offensive tackle. Unless he is cheating up to blitz on short yardage situations he is responsible for deep ball pass protection.

In conclusion the 4-3 defense is a solid defense that schemes well against all offensive schemes. With each player filling their assignments the offenses do have to earn their yards. The 4-3 is easily modified to throw disguised blitzes and stunts at the offense. There are many excellent 4-3 Defense Coaching DVDs available, see our selection by using the links below.

4-3 Defense DVDs

Congrats to Will Muschamp

Will Muschamp is now the former Defensive coordinator and head coaching waiting from the Texas Longhorns to the new head coach for the Florida Gators. Muschamp will replace Urban Meyer who last week resigned as coach of the Gators.

This appointment makes Muschamp at age 39 one of the youngest head coaches in college football.

He does have a very impressive resume:
2008-2010: Texas (defensive coordinator/linebackers)

2006-07: Auburn (defensive coordinator/secondary)

2005: Miami Dolphins (assistant head coach for defense)

2002-04: LSU (defensive coordinator/linebackers)

2001: LSU (linebackers)

2000: Valdosta State (defensive coordinator)

1999: Eastern Kentucky (secondary)

1998: West Georgia (secondary)

1995-96: Auburn (graduate assistant)

Having spent 10 years growing up in Gainesville and going to Gator games he is very familiar with the SEC and the history and traditions of Gator Football.

Muschamp has produced some of the nations best defenses in college ball over the last decade including the 2003 LSU defense that won the national title.

Congrats to the Florida Gators on a great hire and to Will Muschamp and his family for his new position.

Cam Wins The Heisman Trophy

It comes as no surprise that Cam Newton has won the Heisman Trophy. What is surprising was his being left off the Football Association of Americas All-American Team. Kellen Moore won those honors.

Newton is by far the best player in college football this season and based on those attributes he is a worthy recipient. However based on all the criteria such as integrity, Newton falls below the mark and should not be this years Heisman winner.

As you recall he transferred out of Florida because he got caught cheating in his classes, then there was the issue of his having a stolen laptop he through out the window when the police came knocking at his door.

Then there is the pay for play issue. His father admits he tried to get money for his kids football talents, even got zoning issues for his church resolved based on the monies he expected to receive from selling Cam's services. He and Cam claim Cam did not know this.

Cam Newton winning the Heisman diminishes the Heisman as much as Barrack Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize for getting elected President. Even Obama said he had done nothing to deserve the award.

In my opinion Newton has been laughing at everyone all the way through this process. He appears to think it is all a big joke and that he is smarter than everyone else.

In his acceptance speech he threw salt in the wounds of those offended by his and his fathers actions, "My parents do so many things behind the scenes that nobody knows about. " We do know Cam, thats the problem we know way too much.

Then there are the Kellen Moores and Andrew Lucks of the world, the guys who play it straight, they get left in the dust by guys who cheat like Cam Newton.

I think in a few years the straight ones will have the last laugh on Auburn and Cam Newton when like Reggie Bush, Newton has to return the trophy. By then neither he or Cecil Newton will care. Newton will have so much money from the NFL it wont matter to the Newton family, and sadly that is what is about, the money.

Boise State vs Utah Utes

Game day is 11 days away and both sides are talking smack. The Utes defensive end has already guaranteed victory over the Boise State Broncos.

Boise fans have really taken offense at the guaranteed victory and remind the Ute fans of ancient history, the 2006 game.

Personally I think players who publicly guarantee victory are providing locker room material for their opponents and wonder if that is the smart thing to do.

I recall each time we have played the Utes they were convinced we were little brother and that they were going to show us a lesson.

The game should be a tough hard fought game. Boise is missing its key linebacker Byron Hout who is very effective at plugging the middle and shutting down the run.

Utah is missing their starting QB but from what I hear the back up is a very talented kid, that helps Utah, Boise knows very little about the back up.

Any how smack talk amongst the fans is part of the fun of college football, providing it doesnt cross the line and becomes personal insults.

Utah Utes this is just a friendly reminder of the 2006 the game you would like to forget, just as much as I want to forget what happened to us in Reno this year.

How To Play Linebacker In The 4-3 Defense

The position of linebacker of was invented and introduced to college football in the early 1900’s by Michigan Head Coach Fielding H. Yost. (1901-1923 1925-1926)

Since the positions introduction back then, the role of linebacker has taken on many names and duties in the game of football.

In this article we will focus on the role of linebacker in the 4-3 Defense and identify the different names for the different linebacker positions.

Types of Linebackers:
1.Outside Linebackers
a.Strong side or Sam Linebacker
b.Weak side or Will Linebacker

2.Middle Linebacker or Mike

Role of Outside Linebackers:
1.The Sam is usually lined up opposite the tight end or which ever side has the most players. The Sam Backer must be strong and quick. Often he is called upon to tackle the running back after fighting off the block from the tight end. His strength is important in fighting off blocks from tight ends and running back when blitzing on pass plays. He must be able to play like a safety and be able to cover the tight end in passing situations as well as quick enough to drop back in zone coverages.

2.The Will Linebacker must be the fastest of the linebackers. The main function of this position is pass protection. The weak side linebacker lines up wide and at the same depth as the Mike. Frequently the weak side backer covers the back coming out of the back field in man on man coverage but must the reads and be fast enough to drop back and cover the weak flat or hook/curl areas in zone coverage.

3 The Mike is the quarterback of the defense. In the 4-3 Defense he must be a jack of all trades yet he must be the skilled and pivotal of the three linebackers. The Mike must be quick enough to cover the ground between the tackles. He must be able to spy the quarterback and be able to drop back and protect the middle of the field on pass pass protection.

In conclusion linebackers are the heart and soul of the 4-3 defense. They must be able to pick up reads quickly be quick and strong. The middle linebacker is the quarterback of the defense and as he goes so goes the defense.

There are excellent coaching videos for the 4-3 Defense and for the linebacker in the 4-3. Use the links below to see our listings.

4-3 Defense Coaching DVDs

Linebacker Play In The 4-3 and 50 Defense

What Were They Thinking?

Amidst the Bowl Selections and college players getting the different awards we have other players grabbing headlines for being air heads.

I know it seems like I focus on the air heads, but it is my hope that any young people reading my blog will see that know matter how smart they think they are, air heads get caught.

We have seen a player from Iowa get caught for having a drug house. the money he made will never equal what a college degree. He might have been NFL quality, but if he goes to prison, what difference will it make? I doubt the NFL will have much interest in a kid who was doing time and unable to keep his skills up to par. After all he would still remain an unknown quantity.

Washington State has two players in hot water over being pot dealers. How smart can they be, throwing away a college education for quick cash, throwing away an chance to maybe one day play in the pros.

Now UConn has an 18 year old red shirt who has exceeded the stupidity of all the mentioned above. This kid will be branded with the scarlet letters of kddie porn man. Yet he is still a kid himself. He most likely will do time, the closest he will get to playing football will be in the prison yard.

At 18 he will probably have to go into protective custody to be protected from predatory inmates. Eighteen and his life is forever scarred if not ruined, he threw so much away for child pornography.

The arrest of the UConn player happened on Wednesday and he admits to having 20 kiddie porn movies and pictures of children between ages 8 and 15 on his computer. He is under a $75,000.00 bond.

To ask what was he thinking is a waste of time, he wasnt.

It truly saddens me when I see young people throw their futures away over such dumb things. I post what they do in hopes some one who is on the verge of making bad decisions will rethink what they are doing or about to do and make better choices.

No Huddle Offense: What Are Its Advantages?

The No Huddle is more an offensive strategy that an offense per say like the Wing T. However it does offer many advantages. This article will focus on the advantages over the defense create by using a no huddle offense.

Using this offense allows the offense to set the tempo of the game.

1. The offense can have better clock control by running more plays than a conventional huddle offense.

2. Quickly getting to the line of scrimmage lets the offense take control of the defense. They limit the substitutions the defense can make. The defense does not want to get caught with too many players on the field at the snap of the ball.

3. Limiting substitutions limits the defensive play calling. The defense is held to its base defensive strategies, taking away stunts and blitz packages.

4. With the defense using more its base defense the quarterback can get easier reads and make changes at the LOS. An example of this is if the ball side defensive tackle is lined up wide, the quarterback can change the play at the line to an inside trap play.

5. The No Huddle Offense can be used with multiple formations. Whether a team uses the Pistol Offense, Shotgun or pro sets the no huddle can be part of the game plan. Using the multiple formations in a predetermined sequence keeps the offense on the same page and limits the defense even on certain down and distance plays,

An example of this might be to run an I formation, followed by an I with twins left and then an unbalanced I right. Using this strategy gives the opportunity to limit the defensive packages it faces while allowing offense to be able to run many of its offensive plays from the formations.

6. Teams with well conditioned athletes benefit from this offensive strategy later in the game when the defense is out of gas, the better conditioned team does take over game.

In conclusion the No Huddle Offense offers many advantages over the conventional huddle offense. Run properly, the offense can control the tempo of the game and the defense by lining up at the LOS after each play. The offense can control the defense more even in situational downs by using multiple formations. Finally the team better conditioned and accustomed to the faster pace of the No Huddle is in better shape to take full control of the game in the later part of the game.

There are many excellent No Huddle coaching videos available. Use the links below to see our selection.

Scoretouchdowns.com offers a good selection of No Huddle Coaching DVDs.

Visit us and check out our No Huddle Spread Offense DVDs.

No Huddle Offense: 5 Coaching Tips For Using It

The no huddle offense is a football scheme designed to increase the offensive tempo of the game and wear down the defense. Run properly the offense will be able to run more plays while limiting the defenses ability to substitute.

The offense goes to the LOS and calls its plays there instead of going into a huddle then running up to the line of scrimmage. Plays can be signaled in from the sidelines and called while lined up or even changed with audibles. The play can be on a silent snap count or on an audible.

The key to a successful no huddle offense is preparation by the team and the coaching staff. If done properly the offense will have more time on the clock and be able to run more plays while forcing the defense to stick to its base defense attack. If not executed well the offense can experience penalties finding themselves in a hole.

1. Have 10 to 20 pre-scripted plays that you have run in practice. Plays that cover different situations for different positions on the field. Clock conservation is achieved by including short five to ten yard out route pass plays. Be sure to include running plays to keep the defense honest.

2. Develop specific code words and hand signals the team has memorized that are specific to each play. Many teams issue wrist bands to all the players so they can stay on the same page and know which play is being called.

3. The team and coaching staff must know the plays and any sequences they are run in by memory. Coaches set aside practice time to run the plays, practice sending in the signals. For the best results keep the defense elsewhere and have the team running the plays by themselves. This way you get more practice time.

4. Practice the plays as if it were game conditions, these keeps coaches and the team on the same page at all times. Place the ball at the 20 say it is 3rd and 15 runs different plays, determine which plays you think will get the best results and put in the game plan. The more you practice real game situations, the better your no huddle offense will work.

5. Implement your no huddle offense into the game. If you are looking for a fast start and to catch the defense off guard, use it on your opening possession. If you are down at any point in the game and want to change the tempo of the game, put it in wear down the defense. Make the defense play more honest, the no huddle offense will reduce their use of more complicated defensive strategies.

In conclusion the no huddle offense is an offensive strategy that can help you take control of a game. It is adaptable to any offense you use. Whether you want a fast start out of the gate, establish punishing down hill running game, the no huddle is an offense you want in your offensive weapons arsenal.

There are many No Huddle Offense coaching videos, use the links below and see if any can work for your offensive game plan.

Scoretouchdowns.com has a very good no huddle offense coaching DVDS:

No Huddle Offense

For those that are using the spread offense and want to incorporate a spread no huddle offense visit us and check out our No Huddle Spread Offense DVDs

BCS Computer Snafu Confirmed

As we all know, six computers rank and score teams for the BCS and comprise one third of the BCS formula for determining a teams BCS rankings. At stake are millions of dollars and determines who participates in the coveted BCS Bowls and the MNC game.

There are several issues with the computer component of the system. Many believe they are skewed towards the six AQ conferences particularly the SEC. Although the six computer polls deny this, there is no way to prove it one way or another. Five of the six polls refuse to release their formula for ranking teams, calling the formula proprietary property.

Colley is the only poll offering transparency in how its formula works and that is where the error that effected the BCS final standings was detected. The error is believed to have impacted the rankings done by the other five computer polls.

The error was caught in the Colley data by BCS guru Jerry Palm. What Palm discovered missing the Colley data was the Appalachian State blowout over Western Illinois in the FCS play offs. It is surprising to think the FCS play offs would effect the BCS rankings, but they did.

This time there was no serious damage, no one was wrongly excluded from a BCS Bowl and loosing millions from the snafu. What it did do was wrongly place LSU over Boise State in the standings. Since the goof up was discovered, Boise State is now ranked 10th over and 11th place LSU.

What is disturbing is that the error took place and that it took an outsider to find it. Apparently there are few if any safeguards if any to protect teams from these errors. Add in that five of the computers wont allow their calculation formula to be seen and one must wonder, are there more errors we dont know about?

Over the thirteen year period the BCS has existed, were there any teams that were unfairly excluded from the Bowls or the MNC game?

The BCS is very flawed, this just adds to the fire of the critics demanding a play off.

Football & Broadcast Legend Don Meredith Died

Yesterday the world shrank a bit more with the passing of former Dallas Cowboy Quarterback and Monday Night Football Broadcaster Dandy Don Meredith.

Meredith was the original quarterback for the Cowboys signing a contract them in November 1959, two months before the team was accepted into the NFL. Dallas was the only team he played for from 1960 through 1968, retiring at age 31.

Dandy Don was the took his team to the NFL Championship game in 1966 and 1967 playing against Green Bay in the famous Ice Bowl Game.

For those of you old enough to remember, Don Meredith became part of the Monday Night Football broadcasting team of Howard Cosell and Frank Gifford. It was there that he earned his nick name Dandy Don. His presence in the booth won that hearts of fans all across the country. He had a very laid back personality and a great sense of humor. His wit was rapier sharp, he was the only person who could go toe to toe with the acerbic Cosell in a smack down and win and win he did, Howard was no match for the country boy from Mount Vernon, Texas.

Many a time the Monday night games would get boring and out of hand. The outcome would become obvious and Meredith would pronounce the game over with his singing of Turn Out The Lights The Partys' Over.

Sadly Don Meredith is gone at age 72 from a brain hemorrhage he suffered at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was with his wife and daughter when he died yesterday.

Good bye Don, thanks for the memories.
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Look For Hawaii To Join The Mountain West Conference

According to Idaho Statesman writer Brian Murphy the next step in Hawaii moving on to the MWC takes place next week when they will be extended a formal invitation. Look for the Warriors to accept.

With the top three WAC teams already accepting invites the WAC really does not have much to offer Hawaii. The move on only makes sense. They will be able to continue the rivalries with Boise, Fresno and Nevada in their new conference in 2012.

I am sorry for what this does to the WAC Conference, I think it is the death stroke. For those of us that have traveled to Hawaii, its a great place to visit and play football. The teams that make the long journey are rewarded with a 13th game, adding to a teams revenues and exposure of possibly playing a BCS school.

Congrats to Hawaii, it is nice to have them as conference mates in 2012.
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Boise State Football is Vegas Bound

The Boise State Broncos have been invited to the Maaco Bowl hosted in Las Vegas to play the Utah Utes on December 22nd. It should be a good game.

The last time these two teams met was in 2006 at the home of the Utes, Boise destroyed the Utes and left the Utah teams season in shambles. Most of the Utah fans left the game at the half. It was a hard hitting game. The following picture shows just how hard.

I still remember the first time we played Utah 30 years ago. We were an upstart division II team traveling down to Utah and were a heavy underdog. During our walk through the day of the game, Utah officials approached our coach and asked if he minded giving up the field early so that the Ute band could use if for practice, qualifying the request with, you are over matched so what difference would it make?

Funny how things unrelated to the play on the field can change the outcome of a game. Coach Criner had all he needed to get his players over the top to win. Win they did Boise humiliated the Utes in the field and in the papers when Criner was quoted as saying, maybe the next time Utah has visitors, they will treat them with a little more respect.

As you can tell their is a history between Boise State and the University of Utah. Both squads will be aware and primed to go. The Broncos still felt they were the better team in 2008 and Utah was selected over Boise as the non AQ at large.

Utah will be missing its quarterback do to injury just as Boise State will still miss Byron Hout at middle line backer. Hout was the Bronco anchor in stopping the run.

Given the last two games and the success teams had running, I look for Utah to exploit the middle with a sound running attack. It will be a good game.
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Boise State Football For 2010 Is In The Books

My beloved Broncos have finished the season with a 11-1 record and are co champions of the WAC Conference. Yet is still does not feel like a winning season. The BSU Fans I talked to before and after the game all said the same thing, the loss to Nevada is still being felt. All the fans I spoke with and myself included were there at the stadium because of the seniors.

When Kyle Brotzman was introduced he got perhaps the loudest cheer of all the graduating seniors, followed by RB Jeremy Avery and receivers Titus Young and Austin Pettis.

Going into today's game Brotzman was 9 points shy of becoming the leading scorer in NCAA football history. He was 6 for 6 in extra points but sadly, he missed his only field goal try, a chip shot from the left hash mark. My heart goes out to that kid, his career is over and he will be most remembered for 3 misses in a row.

Utah State received the opening kick off and ran the ball out to their own 29. Their first play was a short pass play and Darrel Acrey the senior middle line backer went out in style. He jumped the route for quick pick 6 and had the field to himself as he ran it in. Special for him, was his mom and brother were on the sidelines and saw him score. He was able to run over hug his mom and give the ball to his younger brother. What a way to end his career, it does not get any better than that.

Seniors Austin Pettis, Jeremy Avery and back up running back Jarvis Hodge all had touchdowns on this their last time on The Blue. Sadly missing one was senior receiver Titus Young. Boise tried their best to get him in but it just was not to happen.

For Boise State and Coach Chris Petersen, this was a special class of 18 departing seniors. It was Chris Petersen's first recruiting class, a class that leaves with a record of 47 and 5. Not bad for his first class.

All the remains is to find out which bowl game will be hosting the Broncos. It sounds like it has been narrowed to two. The Las Vegas Bowl on Dec. 22 against University of Utah or the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl in San Francisco on January 9th. Either way it will be Brotzman's final chance to set the new NCAA scoring record, I sure hope he makes it, he only needs 3 points.
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Its The Final Game Day For 2010

Today is Boise States final game of the season. A season that started off with so much on the line every game. The opener against the top 10 Virginia Tech Hokies and ACC player of the year Quarterback Tyrod Taylor. Congrats TT, your a class act on and off the field, you deserve the honors. The game was played was played in DC and lived up to the pregame hype. Boise won a thriller and secured its top ten preseason ranking.

From there the Broncos moved on to the MWC and destroyed Wyoming in their house. The next week we had our first home game against the Pac 10 Oregon State Beavers featuring the talented Rodgers brothers. We managed to win on the blue.

Everything was going Boise States way and we were getting more attention this season than we have ever had in the past. We had the honors of being a regional cover for Sports Illustrated followed by being on the national cover. Man we have arrived.

The rest of the season seems like a blur, the Broncos pitched shut outs against San Jose and New Mexico State. We were on cruise control as we destroyed Hawaii at home and followed that up with being the first team to blank the Fresno State Bull Dawgs in 12 years.

We had a #4 ranking in the BCS polls, the highest ever for us, as we prepared to invade Reno and take on the Nevada Wolf Pack. We were in position to challenge for the national title by beating the #19 ranked Pack and become the first mid-major to have back to back BCS Bowls.

It was Black Friday and cold in Reno. Boise had not lost a regular season game since it lost in Hawaii to the conference mate Warriors on Black Friday 2007.

Things in Reno started well, the Broncos had a nice lead after the first quarter even though they left points off the board. By the half the Broncos had a comfortable lead 24-7. Something was different, Boise had time to score in the remaining minute or so of the first half and the Broncos took their foot off the accelerator. Maybe it was because the Nevada defense was getting to Moore a bit or the Broncos were not firing on all cylinders, but they took their boot of the Wolf Pack throat.

The second half of that game changed the Bronco destiny and season. Twenty years ago in Reno, Boise battled it out with the Pack in a division 1AA semifinal game. Boise missed the game winning field goal in the closing seconds and the game went into overtime. Both teams fought hard and in the 3rd overtime Reno advanced itself to the 1AA championship.

This cold Black Friday night was deja vu all over again. Boise and Nevada were tied with 9 second left and the Broncos were close to 70 yards from victory. Quarterback Kellen Moore had one miracle left in him. He wound up and tossed a 53 yard pass to wide out Titus Young who made a sensational catch. Two seconds left on the clock and WAC point record holder Kyle Brotzman stepped onto the field to kick a game winning BCS Bowl saving 26 yard field goal from the center of the field. Just like former BSU kicker Mike Black 20 years earlier, Brotz missed the easy one from the center of the field, sending the game into overtime.

This time it would be different, I felt it and knew the gloom that awaited us. Boise was gassed the defense was on empty. The Broncos had the first possession and could not must a first down. Brotz was lined up in the center of the field for a 29 yarder, it went wide left. Four plays later Nevada made it winning 34-31 ending the Broncos hopes of three back to back perfect regular seasons a BCS Bowl and sole ownership of the Wac Conference Championship. Gone was the top 10 BCS ranking.

Today a 10-1 Boise State team takes to The Blue for its regular season finale and plays the Utah State Aggies. Today the Broncos can force a three way tie for the conference championship. Today Boise State can send its seniors off with the taste of victory and another championship ring under their belt. I believe Boise will do exactly that.

We started with high hopes, things did not turn out the way we had hoped but a 11-1 season and co champions of the conference isnt bad. After today another Bronco season is in the history books, been a hell of a ride. I look forward to today to pay respects to our departing seniors and to what next season will bring. Thanks Broncos for another wonderful year of college football.
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College Football: The Ugly Side

Last Friday those who watched the Boise State v Nevada game saw one heck of a game. We witnessed talented well coached teams make plays on both sides of the ball. We saw teams that did not quit. Nevada came from a large deficit to tie the game.

We saw Boise States Kellen Moore throw a hail Mary to Titus Young who made a spectacular catch and give the Broncos a 26 yard field goal attempt with 2 seconds on the clock.

We saw last years Fiesta Bowl hero Kyle Brotzman step onto the field and attempt the game winning kick. For those that dont remember last years Fiesta Bowl featuring Boise State the the TCU Horned Frogs, the game was tied at 10 each. Boise faced a 4th and long deep inside their own territory. Brotzman came onto the field to punt, but it was a fake, With a defender right in his face, about 2 strides away, Brotz threw a perfect strike just over the punt rushers head. Kyle Efaw made the grab for 20 yards a first down and set up the game winning touchdown.

Friday did not pan out as well for KB he sent the attempt wide to the right, sending the game into overtime. Boise got the ball first and the Nevada defense helped stall the Bronco offense, forcing another field goal attempt by Brotzman, it sailed wide left. Three plays later the Nevada kicker became the toast of Reno and Wolf Pack Nation as he booted the game winner through the uprights.

As many of you know, Brotz has been the focus of scorn and ridicule of football fans across the country. Sadly Boise State fans have participated in hate campaigns directed at the senior kicker.

I am going to ask all you readers to help me. Some idiot has put up a Face Book page that is called Kyle Brotzman Sucks. Please use the following link and go to the page. You find a link on the left that says report this page. There you will find a menu that ask why. I chose it directs hate and in the drop down I chose it directs it directs hate at me or a friend.

If enough people do this, Face Book will delete that page. Nobody has hurt more than Brotz and no athlete who does the best he or she can with what they have deserves this kind of hate. All it shows is the ugly side of sports. Kyle Brotzman
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Cam Newton Is An Idiot

Auburn's Cam Newton goes beyond what was he thinking, he doesn't think, to say he does is an oxymoron. The guy is a compete and total brainless moron.

How can I say this? Well Cam and it appears some of his teammates have removed all doubt that his cranium is empty.

As we all know he his father and Auburn University have been investigated for a pay for play scandal. It has become so serious that for the first time ever the FBI has been involved in a possible college football scandal.

Common sense tells us when a scandal of this magnitude is being investigated that the parties of the focus of the investigation keep a low profile and do not do anything that can add fuel to the fire. With Cam Newton, throw common sense out the window as well, he does not have any.

Right now this kid is the most scrutinized player in the country, he is a lock for the Heisman and looks to make millions in the up coming pro draft. Doesn't he know the internet is not Vegas, what happens on the web doesn't stay there hidden away and protected.

It appears Newton lives up to his first name, Cam, and is not shy about being on the old web cam. Not only does Newton show his face, but it appears Cam likes to show baby Cam on the net as well. Doesn't this guy read news or listen to sports talk shows. Didn't he hear about the controversy surrounding Brett Favre and his allegedly sending pics of baby Brett to a woman who did not appreciate them?

This time there is pay for play. The woman Newton was web caming with has all the video and with sound. She is trying to sell the Newton tapes and I am sure some one will pony up the bucks to be able to show Big Cam and baby cam in all their splendor and glory.

The following link will provide you with more information. There is no nudity but there are some You Tubes of Web Scam Cam Newton
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