2009 Preview: Miss. State Basketball…Friday Predictions
Hard to believe that basketball is here! And if basketball season ever sneaks up on you, its usually a good sign that your football season is keeping you intrigued and entertained. For us Dawg fans, it been awhile since we could really say that, but thanks to Dan Mullen, it seems that football will easily dominate our daily thoughts-all the way through November, and hopefully even longer. But, with that said, let’s take a look at our 2009 Bulldog Basketball team.
Rick Stansbury returns for his11th year as head coach of the Bulldogs, boasting a 231-128 record overall. 2008, was an interesting year for MSU, one in which the Dawgs lacked consistency early, but found it in the last quarter of the season. State would finish only 3rd in the West, but did go on to win the SEC Tournament, cutting down the nets, after taking down Bruce Pearl’s Vols. Every year is a new one though, and State who has owned the SEC West, 2 of the last 3 years, and will no doubt be looking to make their mark not only on the SEC, but on the national scene as well. MSU will be starting off on the right foot, ranked #18th in the country, and they return all 5 starters. So, State fans will see Jarvis Varnado, Barry Stewart, Dee Bost, Phil Turner, and Ravern Johnson, taking the court, game in and game out. Here’s a look at each one of those starters…
Jarvis Varnado: 6-9 Center- Known to State fans as “SWAT” , Jarvis needs 142 blocks to become the NCAA all-time blocked shots leader, and only 19 to pass Shaquille O’Neal’s SEC blocks record. He has 394 in his career, and had 170 last year. Last year, Swat averaged 12.9 ppg, 4.7 blocks, and 8.8 rebounds.
Barry Stewart: 6-2 Guard- Also known as “Randy Stewart”, hit 72 3-pointers last year, and returns as one of State’s best defenders. Barry averaged 12.4 ppg, and 3.8 rebounds, and brings a lot of experience to the court, as a 3 yr starter.
Dee Bost: 6-2 Guard- As a Freshman, Bost showed maturity beyond his years, and at times could single handedly take over a game. As many of you know, Dee was the starting QB on his high school football team, and those skills were evident as he led the Dawgs on the court last year. Bost averaged 10.9 ppg, and 4.3 assists.
Phil Turner: 6-3 G- Turner is Mr. Versatile for MSU. He can play the guard spot, but has been known to even back down defenders as a power forward. Phil plays bigger than his 6-3 figure, crashing the boards, and has the quickness to create turnovers. In 2008, Turner averaged 8.5 ppg, and 5.5 rebounds.
Ravern Johnson: 6-7 Guard/Forward- Ray hit an MSU high, 83 3-pointers last year. Johnson can hit the deep shot, run the court, and shake the rim-as good as anyone in the SEC. Ray averaged 12.1 ppg, and 3 rebounds.
Not only will State benefit from all 5 starters returning, but they will be aided greatly by their bench as well. Romero Osby, a 6-8 Sophomore Forward, showed glimpses of his potential last year, but definitely needs to work on his hands and finishing around the basket. Osby pitched in during his time on the court, averaging 4.1 ppg, and 2.6 rebounds. In 2008, State fans witnessed the emergence of Kodi Agustus. Once pulling his own weight, and committing to the team, Kodi became one of the most explosive players-coming off of State’s bench. His physical play was good for a 6.2 ppg average, and made him a strong rebounder as well. Since it looks like Elgin Bailey, will not be ready for the 2009 season, due to the lingering effects of last year’s foot injury, it seems that the Dawgs will turn to Freshman Forward Wendell Lewis, to help come in and control the paint and boards. Riley Benock returns for his Junior year, and for the most part is mainly known for his 3 point shooting.
New Addition: John Riek, is a 7-2 Center from Sudan. At one time, Riek was considered to be a possible lottery pick for the NBA, but after suffering a knee injury, Riek’s expectations were somewhat lowered. Now, apparently healthy enough to play, State fans are wondering if Riek will blossom back into the player that many think he can still be. Here’s a 30 second look at what Riek is capable of…
And then of course, there is one of the most talked about players in college basketball, in Renardo Sidney. But, since we are uncertain if he’ll ever see the court-due to his amateurism status. Analyst such as Katz from ESPN, have mentioned that we should hear something within the week…we’ll see.
2009 Schedule…I’m marking Feb.16 on my calendar! When UK comes to town.
Anyway, what you guys think about this team, and their chances?
Even though State’s not playing this week, there are other games that we can make our predictions on, so…(my picks are in bold)
#9 LSU @ #3 Bama…Geaux Tigers though!
Vandy @ #1 UF
USC @ Arky
Memphis @ UT
*And my game to watch, Oregon @ Stanford…hmmmm
Questions for a Thursday…Not Much Else
Man oh man, are yall as bored as me? Anyway, thought I’d get your opinions on some current College Football matters, in order to pass the time. Here we go…
(1) Who’s the best undefeated team left in college football? There are 7…
UF, Bama, Texas, Iowa, Cincy, TCU, or Boise St…Rank em as you see fit. My rankings: #1 UF, #2 Bama, #3 Texas, #4 Cincy, I see TCU and Boise somewhere around #8 or #9, would even put GT and Oregon higher, and I’d probably have Iowa at about #7…they’ll lose 1, maybe 2 before its over, and we won’t have to worry about them.
(2) Do you feel that teams such as TCU or Boise St, belong in the Top 10? To me, it completely depends on the conference affiliation of the particluar team. I have major respect for Mountain West, but not the WAC. Each conference has some strong teams, but the overall schedule and competition level isn’t there.
(3) Do you feel that a team should be jumped in the weekly polls, even when they did not play? Such as Bama being jumped by Texas, during an off week for the Tide… I’d have to disagree. Seems to me like Bama, as much as historically praised, has been the caged animal that voters get to prod at this year, trying to see how the animal responds.
(4) Who’s the best one loss team in the country?
Oregon, LSU, GT, PSU, Pitt, Utah, or Houston…I’d say Oregon or GT, maybe LSU depending on this weekend.
-As for our Dawgs, apparently Tyson Lee and Chris Relf didn’t get to experience the fun side of practice, that the other players did…a little punishment for turning over the ball.
-As for the fun side of practice, here’s Kyle Veazey’s take on the reactions of players, practicing after State’s win over UK.
-And UF’s Brandon Spikes, suspends himself for the entire Vandy game.
Off weeks are not to fun on the blog…Basketball preview coming tomorrow!
MSU’s Defensive & Spec. Teams Stats…1st Year SEC Coaches?
Well guys, as I promised, today we’ll take a look at MSU’s Defensive and Special Teams stats. The Dawgs got back to work for the #3 Alabama Crimson Tide today, with 7 on 7 pass skeleton drills, and a Freshman scrimmage. Anyway here’s a look at our Dawg D & Special Teams:
INT’s
Johnthan Banks: 4 for 145 yds 36.2 Avg 2 TD’s
Corey Broomfield: 3 for 54 yds 18.0 Avg 1 TD
Jamar Chaney: 2 for 19 yds 9.5 Avg 0 TD
Charles Mitchell: 2 for 88 yds 44 Avg 1 TD
Damien Anderson: 1 for 4 yds 4 Avg 0 TD
*Team Total: 12 for 4 TD’s
Tackles
Jamar Chaney: 73 Total Ast-44 Solo-29 TFL-4.5 Sacks-2
KJ Wright: 65 Total Ast-32 Solo-33 TFL-6.0 Sacks-2
Chris White: 56 Total Ast-21 Solo-35 TFL- 4.0 Sacks-.5
Marcus Washington: 49 Total Ast-21 Solo-48 TFL-4.5 Sacks-0
Charles Mitchell: 46 Total Ast-20 Solo-26 TFL-0.5 Sacks-0
Pernell McPhee: 38 Total Ast-15 Solo-23 TFL-4.0 Sacks-4
Kyle Love: 26 Total Ast-14 Solo-12 TFL-1.5 Sacks-1.5
Johnthan Banks: 21 Total Ast-7 Solo-14 TFL-0 Sacks-0
Fletcher Cox: 21 Total Ast-9 Solo-12 TFL-3.5 Sacks-1
Sean Fergeuon: 20 Total Ast-12 Solo-8 TFL-4.5 Sacks-0
Corey Broomfield: 14 Total Ast-5 Solo-9 Sacks-0
Nick Bell: 12 Total Ast-9 Solo-3 TFL-1.0 Sacks-.5
Josh Boyd: 13 Total Ast-6 Solo-7 TFL-0 Sacks-0
Devin Jones: 11 Total Ast-5 Solo-6 TFL-3.5 Sacks-2.5
*Team Total Sacks: 16
Kick Returns
Leon Berry: 31 for 801 yds 25.8 Avg 1 TD
Chad Bumphis: 6 for 137 yds 22.8 Avg 0 TD
Punting
Heath Hutchins: 38 for 1,512 yds 39.8 Avg Long-56 Inside 20-8
FG’s
Sean Brauchle: 6/9 for 66.7% Long-49
Derrick DePasuale: 7/8 for 87.5% Long-43
To me, the LB core and DL has been pretty good for us, and I wouldn’t trade any of our front 7 for anybody. I have to say, that I have been very impressed with youngsters Fletcher Cox, Johnthan Banks, Corey Broomfield, Nick Bell, and Devin Jones. They are guys who have a bright future at State. And in the kicking game, we can’t say enough about DePasquale, what a job, but we sure do miss Brauchle’s leg on kick offs. And what has happened to Hutchins??? 38 yd Avg…
As of right now, how would you grade the first year coaches in the SEC?
-Auburn’s Chizik: C+
-MSU’s Dan Mullen: A-
-UT’s Lane Kiffin: B+
To explain my grading, I am grading on a curve, the curve being my pre-season expectations of how they’d do. Mullen gets the highest grade, because of how the Dawgs have performed vs top-notch teams, and the talent level that he is working with, as compared to what Auby and UT had in waiting for their newbies. Also, Kiffin has already surpassed what I thought he’d accomplish at UT…I was wrong there, have to admit it. Chizik has lost a few, that I have no clue how, but will have some success at Auby.
Your Thoughts? And who has stood out to you on D?
Here’s an article by Veazey at the Clarion Ledger, discussing Mullen rallying the fanbase for Bama, Dixon’s awards, and Ducre’s status.
Fox Sports, most disappointing teams of 2009…Ole Miss is #7, UGA, and USC make the list.
That’s it…
MSU’s Top Performers Thus Far…
Well guys, here we are approaching Week 10 of the College Football season. State will actually play its 10th game of the year, next week in Starkville- versus the Tide. While the Dawgs are enjoying an off week, and two days off of practice, I figured we’d take a look at what some of our Offensive Bulldogs have accomplished thus far in 2009.
Passsing - Ranked (106th)
Tyson Lee: 112/189 1271 yds 4 TD’s 11 INT’s RAT 111.1
Chris Relf: 15/26 213 yds 3 TD’s 2 INT’s RAT 149.2
*Team Total Passing: 128 of 219 for 1,489 yds 7 TD’s 13 INT’s
Rushing- Ranked (12th)
Anthony Dixon: 182 Rushes 1,001 yds 9 TD’s 5.5 Avg
Chris Relf: 43 Rushes 292 yds 1 TD 6.8 Avg
Christian Ducre’: 45 Rushes 263 yds 2 TD’s 5.8 Avg
Tyson Lee: 57 Rushes 190 yds 3 TD’s 3.3 Avg
Robert Elliot: 32 Rushes 109 yds 1 TD 3.4 Avg
Arnil Stallworth: 23 Rushes 92 yds O TD 4.0 Avg
*Team Total Rushing: 1,973 yds Rushing 16 TD’s
Receiving
Chad Bumphis: 26 Rec 290 yds 3 TD’s 11.2 Avg
Marcus Green: 22 Rec 264 yds 2 TD’s 12 Avg
O’Neal Wilder: 12 Rec 212 yds 1 TD 17.7 Avg
Leon Berry: 14 Rec 170 yds 0 TD’s 12.1 Avg
Christian Ducre’: 10 Rec 151 yds 1 TD 15.1 Avg
Arnil Stallworth: 8 Rec 112 yds 0 TD 14 Avg
Brandon McCrae: 12 Rec 103 yds 0 TD 8.6 Avg
Anthony Dixon: 9 Rec 50 yds 0 TD 5.6 Avg
Brandon Heavens: 6 Rec 30 yds 0 TD
*Team Total Receiving: 125 Rec 1,442 yds 11.5 Avg 7 TD’s
State’s Offense is ranked 56th nationally, averaging 384.67 yds pg.
Sorry if this bores you, just thought we’d take a look. Tomorrow, we’ll break down the Defense.
Anything to add, your thoughts on the O? And for those of you who need a quick 3 minute recap of Dixon’s performance on Saturday night, click here, and at least watch the first play where he lays the guy out.
In Basketball, Coach Stanz is concerned about John Riek’s 9 game suspension not including exhibition match ups. And is it just me, or does UK get away with everything when it comes to basketball. Wish the NCAA would look the other way on Sidney, like they did with John Wall.
MSU/UK: “The Anthony Dixon Show”…Dixon for Heisman?
For the 6th time this season, and for the 15th time in his career, Anthony Dixon carried the ball for yet again-a 100+ yard performance. Not just a couple of yards over the mark, but rather 152 over, putting yet another record under his belt at MSU. He would not be denied, and all night, the Kentucky Wildcats had no answer. Dixon, has for years faced criticism as an indecisive runner, but this year-continues to silence critics, acting as the example of the “relentless effort” moto, that Mullen preaches. 252 yards, and 2 TD’s, not only broke Jerious Norwood’s single game rushing record, but also topped Alabama’s Mark Ingram’s 246 yard performance, earlier this year against South Carolina. It’s amazing that Dixon is just a few yards shy, of Ingram, who is being considered for the Heisman…hmmmm? Even though we could go on and on about AD, we can’t overlook the efforts of others, who pushed the Dawgs to victory. After Tyson Lee threw two poor and costly INT’s, Chris Relf quickly got the Dawgs back on track, with a 53 yard scamper-deep into UK territory. He would get 7 yards on the next carry, and the drive was capped off by a 1 yard dive over the goal line by Anthony Dixon, which brought the Dawgs within 4 points. Tyson Lee would find a groove in the second half, connecting with O’ Neal Wilder, for a 67 yard bomb, that tied the game at 24. Lee finished with 145 yards, on 10 of 17 passing, which proved to be ‘just’ enough to aid Dixon’s outstanding effort. Good night for the recievers, no drops, and Lee hit 6 different targets. On the Defensive side of the ball, the Dawgs were at times, completely dominated on the line of scrimmage. Derrick Locke rushed for 108 yards, on a light 17 carries. And in the red zone, QB Morgan Newton ran behind a big blue wall of blockers with ease. State also had trouble getting off the field, allowing conversions on 6 of 14 third down tries, and 2 of 3 fourth down tries. It seemed that UK’s passes went in between State defenders, and over their finger tips all night. But, to State’s credit, recievers mainly got open on breakdowns in coverage-when it appeared Newton was going to be sacked. The Dawgs will have to eliminate second chances, on plays in the future, especially with their upcoming schedule. With that said, when it counted, the D stood strong, allowing only 308 total yards, forcing 3 Kentucky turnovers (2 fumbles-Chaney, White; 1 INT-Chaney), and on more “on downs.” One thing State did right on D, was contain Randall Cobb, holding him to 59 total yards of offense. But, the special teams could not, giving up 188 return yards to the versatile Cobb, who put UK in great field position for most of the night. The Dawgs got great play from their LB’s, Jamar Chaney had 2 turnovers and 15 tackles, KJ Wright added 10 tackles, and Chris white added 8 tackles and a fumble recovery. You also have to give credit to DB Marcus Washington, DL Pernell McPhee, and S Charles Mitchell, who found their way to the ball. Overall, great game, great win for Mullen, and the Dawgs are now 3-1 on the road in 2009, after going 0-6 as visitors last year. Also, the Dawgs have 2 road SEC wins, for the first time since the 1998-99 seasons, and have won 3 consecutive road games- for the first time since 1994. As Bob Dylan said, “these times are-a-changing,” and the future appears bright for MSU, thanks to Dan Mullen. It’s time for some Allthingsmaroon Helmet Stickers…I’m cooler than Mark May and Spittin’ Lou Hotlz, so I can do my own version.
Anthony Dixon: You are a ‘BEAST’ my friend. As far as players, you are the leader of this team. Keep on leading. Anybody see the lick he put on the guy, on the sideline??? If my memory serves me right, I think it was the same kid that blind-sided Charles Mitchell.
Charles Mitchell: After literally getting knocked out of the game in the first half, on a punt return, Chuck forced a huge momentum changing fumble, that gave State the short field to travel- in order to tie the game at 17.
Tyson Lee/O’Neal Wilder: State fans have been waiting all year, on you to do exactly what you did Saturday night. The 67 yarder was an amazing play…very surprising.
MSU’s O-Line: Awesome, no sacks, and you paved the way for 348 yards on the ground. Our most improved position this year-from last.
Jamar Chaney: 15 tackles, 2 turnovers (one inside the 5), and .5 of a sack that ended the game. #22 is making the best of his last year.
Dan Mullen: (1) Mullen has the unique ability to get the most out of his players. (2) He has made this team Road Warriors. (3) Somehow, despite the magnitude of losses this year, his MSU teams continue to come out with a winning attitude. (4) His relationship with our players is special, his attention to detail, his input into every aspect of the game…we are getting our money’s worth. Watching his reactions on the sideline Saturday, was priceless.
Your thoughts? Did I miss anything? And btw, we’ll talk Basketball some during this off-week…
Predictions & Picks: MSU @ UK
It’s Friday boys! And on the eve of Halloween, we have a couple of games to discuss, but none more important to us than the Dawgs and Wildcats. We’ve been breaking down stats for most of the week, but thought we’d take a look at the Wildcats that are responsible for putting up those numbers, and what to expect from them on Saturday. By the way, State is 4 point underdogs.
At the QB position, MSU couldn’t have hoped for a better situation to go up against. Junior Mike Hartline, who has been the main QB for UK, has been out since the Auburn game with an injury. Morgan Newton, a Freshmen QB for the Cats, was brought in to sub in Hartline’s absence, but after a slow and unimpressive start versus La-Monroe, Rich Brooks turned to Junior Will Fidler to get things going. Fidler finished the game 8/13 for 82 yds. If pressed, Fidler does have some mobility, and can make plays with his feet.
At RB, UK has Derrick Locke, who has ran for 495 yds on 109 carries. Averaging 4.5 a rush, Locke is a shifty back, and once loose, is hard to catch. FB John Conner is also a valuable asset for the Wildcat offense, rushing for 100 yds on 18 carries this year. Both Locke and Conner have good hands out of the back field, and are averaging 8+ yds a reception. Speaking of good hands, WR Chris Matthews is threat as well.
As far as the X Factor, UK’s Randall Cobb is one of the more versatile players in the SEC. In 2008, Cobb served as UK’s QB, before being moved to WR. This year, Cobb has played at QB, RB, WR, and even returns kicks, where he is adding to his reputation as a ‘threat’ -every time he touches the ball. Cobb has 46 passing yds on 2 completions, 28 receptions for 349 yds, 35 rushes for 280 yds, and has shown he can take one to the house in the kicking game.
As far as on D for the Cats, 2 very important players might be back in action. LB Micah Johnson and DL Shane McCord, are expected to dress, but neither are 100 percent. Johnson’s presence may be more important than McCord’s, due to the fact that he leads the Wildcats in tackles (55), and would play a vital role in trying to stop State’s Anthony Dixon. In the secondary, Bulldog QB’s will definitely benefit from the absence of First Team All-SEC CB Trevard Lindley.
My Keys to Victory: Common sense tells you, that MSU has to be able to run the ball. The #18 rushing team in the country has to show up, and so does it’s O-Line. After two poor performances, one against an average D, and one versus the #2 D in the country, the Line has to find consistency, and dominate the line of scrimmage. Dawgs need a big day from Dixon and Ducre’, and from their QB’s. Leon Berry and Chad Bumphis, have to continually put State in decent field position. On the Defensive side of the ball, the Dawgs will need solid play at every level. The D-Line will have to penetrate and disturb the UK game plan, and put pressure on the Cat’s inexperienced QB’s. White, Wright, and Chaney will have to wrap UK’s ball carriers up, and not allow second chances for them to get loose. Most importantly, keep an eye on Cobb.
My Prediction: MSU 28 UK 17
The Dawgs take offense to being UK’s Homecoming choice, and after playing well on D for the last 2 weeks, the Dawg D shows us just what they have been capable of all year. The Wildcat formation proves to be ineffective, thanks to solid Line play and tackling, and State forces 2 INT’s. Relf and Lee keep it simple, but effective. And Anthony Dixon has 110 yds rushing, and Ducre’ adds another 70.
Other Notable Games…
#25 Ole Miss @ Auby- Gotta think Auby gets back into a groove.
#1 UGA vs UF (Jax.)- Closer than you think, Chomp-Chomp!
GT @ Vandy- Jackets will KILL Vandy.
#22 USC @ UT- USC’s D, pulls it out…20-17.
Tulane @ #9 LSU- The Tiger Rag, belongs to the Tigers!
USM @ #18 Houston- USM’s D keeps em in it, but UH is too much.
#3 TX @ #14 Ok State- Ok State with the upset! Forget Dez Bryant.
#5 USC @ #10 Oregon- Oregon in a nail-biter.
Your thoughts, predictions, and keys to victory?
A Look at Some Different MSU Stats…Boring Thursday
Thursday boys…Thursday. Well, we had a good talk yesterday, about Relf and Lee, and the strengths and weaknesses of both. So, if you missed that, feel free to check it out under yesterday’s post. Anyway, with ’nothing’ much to report on this week, I had to get creative and do some funky stat research. Hope this is somewhat entertaining and fresh, because everyone’s still talking about the missed call in the UF game, Mullen’s reprimand, and I’m already over all that. So…here’s a session of “Did You Know?”
Did you know?
-State forces a turnover every 33 plays on defense. That’s good for 4th in the SEC, within that category. State has 17 takeaways in 2009. Wondering just how far has UGA’s defense fallen this year? They have only forced 6 turnovers and average a takeaway every 80 plays. Worst in the SEC.
-On Offense, within that same category, State has turned it over more than anyone else in the SEC, with 21 give aways, and give it away-on average, once every 26 plays. Only other team that is worst…UGA, who turns it over every 25 plays.
-MSU, has the 9th hardest schedule remaining in college football.
-State is 1st in the SEC with 6 non-offensive TD’s. Last year, the Dawgs had…0.
-This weekend, the Dawgs could improve to 3-1 on the road, which is better than last year, when they went 0-6.
-State is 6-8 all time on Halloween, and their last win on Halloween was at UK, in 1992. Trick or Treat.
Not a fan of Chris Low, but here’s a unique topic he came up with, a list of the SEC’s Heisman contenders. Who’s on your Top 10 Best SEC Players list?
Tomorrow, we’ll do picks, predictions, and keys to victory…Have a good one boys.
MSU/UK: A Look Inside the Numbers, New Feature
Don’t know about yall, but we call Wednesday “Hump Day” at work, meaning that we are at that hopeful mid point of the week, where Friday at 5 doesn’t seem so far away anymore. So enjoy your day, and here’s some MSU stuff to gnaw on, and make your work day a little better.
This week’s match up is at Lexington, versus the UK Wildcats. Let’s look at what the stats tell us about these 2 teams.
Total Off.- MSU (63rd) 371ypg UK (89th) 337ypg
Rush Off.- MSU (18th) 203ypg UK (26th) 186ypg
Passing Off.- MSU (105th) 168ypg UK (110th) 151ypg
Total Def.- MSU (65th) 375ypg UK (59th) 352ypg
Rush Def.- MSU (66th) 142ypg UK (90th) 174ypg
Passing Def.- MSU (58th) 215ypg UK (22nd) 178ypg
Scoring Def.- MSU (67th) 24ppg UK (55th) 23ppg
*Statistical Leader in BOLD
As you can see, State holds a 4-3 statistical edge this year, at least in what we can probably all consider the top/most important categories. A couple of things that come to my attention immediately, is UK’s rushing defense, or apparently a lack thereof. I initially got excited when I saw that stat, but looking at UK’s schedule, I think it is clear to see why things have added up the way they have. So far this year, the Cats have played Miami (OH), Louiseville, UF, Bama, Auburn, USC, and La-Monroe. Any of those teams really known for airing it out with the pass? This year, not really. Louiseville and USC maybe, but for the most part they are balanced, and not very flashy through the air…which to me explains the #22 ranking for UK’s pass defense, due to lack of dominant passing opponents. And to echo or confirm that point, when you look at that line up of opponents, most are known for running the ball, especially three of them-in UF, Auby, and Bama. Playing teams with rushing tendencies, means that they will get eventually get their yards, just due to the number of attempts, and the focus of the offense. So, some of these statistical areas may be inflated or exaggerated, and because of that, I think State can throw the ball on the Wildcat D, but by that I mean keeping it simple, and not asking QB Tyson Lee to do too much. Need I say more.
And with the tough schedule ahead, we have to utilize Chris Relf. He’s made some selfish mistakes off the field, but he was a play call away from being the offensive spark and hero Saturday night vs UF. How did Mullen feel about Chris Relf’s return to action and work ethic-last week…“I thought he had a great attitude last week in coming back and preparing…If the same continues, we might see him a little bit more this week.” And boy do we need to Coach.
Questions of the Day: Would you like to see more of QB Chris Relf? Will Anthony Dixon get another 100 yd game vs UK? And, how do you feel about our vertical and deep passing game…do we need to work on throwing deep, or have you seen enough?
New Site Feature: If you guys have any topics, questions, or items you would like to discuss, just email them to allthingsmaroon@gmail.com, and I’ll post those on the site. We can call it the “Doggy Bag”…just playin.
Anyway, have a good one, and sorry for the sucky post yesterday…
Game Week 9 for the Bulldogs…UK
Dawgs and Mullen Get Back to Work
“They fight, they’ve showed the effort by the way they’ve battled in games that we’ve lost four pretty tough games at home against nationally ranked opponents…they battled in every one of those games, and they came out yesterday, and I was really pleased with their effort in practice yesterday.”- Mullen
Well, what we thought would happen yesterday-indeed did, Mullen was reprimanded after his comments directed towards the SEC official responsible for the instant replay reviews. Dan the Man played his cards at the right time though, because SEC Commissioner Mike Slive-announced that the next coach to do so, would be fined. This coming of course, after UT’s Lane Kiffin, making remarks that eluded to an on-going conspiracy by SEC officials, to protect the SEC’s top teams. I guess Kiffin hasn’t been around long enough to realize that that’s just how things go in Tuscaloosa.
Anyway, thought we’d take a look at the Dawg’s upcoming match up with the Kentucky Wildcats, so here ya go…
State and UK have met only 36 times, first squaring off all the way back in 1914. State is 16-20 all time versus the Wildcats, and both teams own the edge at home. State’s last trip to Lexington in 2007, was a 31-17 man handling, in which the Dawg D dominated then Kentucky QB- Andre’ Woodson. Speaking of Woodson, UK’s problem over the past 2 seasons has been trying to fill the holes at the QB position. A perfect example was last weekend, when Kentucky used 3 different signal callers (more on that Wednesday).
Back to the series…State is only 5-13 all time at UK. When the Dawgs visit Blue Grass Country, they are averaging 19.17 ppg, while UK averages 23.22 ppg. Usually a close and entertaining game, Saturday’s meeting might possibly be the most evenly matched opponent MSU will face in 2009. Both teams find themselves in similar situations, scratching and fighting for every win that might lead to a bowl.
Just for fun, here’s a look back at our preseason preview of UK, take a look and see whether your predictions were on target.
That’s all for today…Your thoughts on this match up from what you’ve seen from the Cats thus far? More info on the Dawgs and Cats to come.
Dawgs Fall to Gators, Instant Replay, & Tough Opponents
X Factor, Freshman Johnthan Banks
“It hurt we lost, but we showed the world what Mississippi State is about, and in the future everybody will know.” -Banks
First off, what an atmosphere! That was the most hype I have ever seen a pregame…ever. Now, down to business.
MSU lost its 4th home game in a row on Saturday night, to the #1 ranked Florida Gators. With 57,178 on hand, the largest and quite possibly-lowdest crowd in MSU history, witnessed the Dawgs come up 10 points short to the best team in the land. MSU entered the game as 22 and a half point underdogs, but held the attention of the nation’s college football fanbase-for 3 and a half quarters. To me personally, this one wasn’t quite as hard a pill to swallow as the other losses this year. No one on the national level expected State to win, and to me, it was enough to have the Gator fans on hand and at home, on the edge of their seats. To sum this one up, this game could be described as: below average performances by the offenses, and some great defense by both teams. UF came in averaging 470 ypg, but was held to 376. MSU, who averages 390 ypg, was held to only 237. Relying heavily on the running game for most of 2009 (or as always), State was held to only 92 yards rushing, which is 127 below their average. As far as the stout defenses, well the Gators were exactly who we thought they were, which was the #2 ranked defense in the country. MSU wasn’t so bad themselves versus the #6 offense in the country, keeping the Gators out of the endzone on 4 of 5 trips into the redzone, and only allowing only 2 of 13 possible conversions on 3rd downs. But, even with that effort and 2 defensive TD’s provided by Johnthan Banks, would not prove to be enough to earn State a victory. In all honesty, with the exception of the second Bulldog possession, one Tyson Lee pass to Ducre’, and the series that was dominated by Relf’s appearence, the offense was simply dead, and out of rhythm. To Lee’s credit, he did not have much time to throw the ball for the majority of the night, but, when he did have time: (1) numerous passes were badly thrown, especially in situations were simply putting the ball in front of a reciever could have easily resulted in a first down or big gain; (2) the staring down of a reciever cost us two tipped ball interceptions, one went back for 6. (3) He just simply made some poor decisions, the worst being the deep ball INT thrown DIRECTLY to Major Wright, who awaited the ball like a punt. That’s the kind of a throw you make on a desperation 4th down play-at the end of a game, but not on 1st and 10, when your team is driving and needs it most. Once again, he has a ton of character, a heart of a lion, but in all honesty is a refreshing reminder of what we will not have as a QB for years to come. Urban Meyer mentioned last week, that our QB’s have had the most success, when our signal callers make plays with their feet, both in running and in the passing game. UF’s D, allowed ZERO escapes and scrambles on the night, and opened holes and buying time, were at a premium for the Dawg O-Line. One other pivotal point in the game was a failed fake punt attempt by MSU, deep in their own territory, admist a 3 point game, with 12 minutes left. Fans and Mulllen himself, can question whether the call was the right one or not, but I completely agreed with it. The fact is for years State fans have complained about Anthony Dixon being a dancer, but have to face the fact that we have recruited a ‘true’ one in Robert Elliot. It appeared that if Elliot had kept the angle he was taking toward the marker, he could have plowed forward for the first down. But, Elliot tried to make more of what opportunity was actually there, and slipped and fell yards short. All in all, the Dawgs found ways to keep themselves in the game, even after becoming their own worst enemy (yet again), and even in facing some questionable officiating (mainly one call). But, that’s one of the marks of a team that is improving, that gives relentless effort, and leaves it all out on the field. And compared to years passed, I’ll take that any day.
Keys to the Loss: (1) The bad play call, but mainly Relf’s poor decision on 3rd and 4, that resulted in a huge loss of yardage. Seems Relf and Lee always take a sack when we can’t afford one. (2) Elliot’s poor run. (3) The bad call on the pick 6. (4) Lee’s deep ball INT-what the heck!?! (5) Last but not least, the false starts. How, in a ‘check’ style offense, where you check to the sideline to determine whether the original play call is good to go, or needs to be changed- do you have people jumping off sides BEFORE either has been determined?
Is there a growing trend here?
Two consecutive ‘decent’ showings by the defense, and two poor showings by the offense, might have us wondering if the defense is beginning to win back the ‘hearts’ of the fans, and quite possibly their reputation. Called out since the Auburn game, the defense has suffered more than the attacks of opposing offenses, but from the Maroon Nation as well (me included). The Dawg D has forced 8 turnovers in the last 3 games, and while allowing opposing teams to move the ball at times, tightening things up the red zone has become one of the Dawgs’ strengths. To me, the X factors are 2 players, Johnthan Banks and Corey Broomfield. Just think about our chances if they would have been playin almost every snap versus LSU and GT, and in Broomfield’s case-Houston.
Instant Replay Please? or Lack Thereof?
In three of those four home losses that the Dawgs have suffered this year, officiating has cost State some very valuable points. First, there were two questionable plays on the goal line versus LSU (Sept. 26), where Anthony Dixon and Tyson Lee, appeared to have possibly broken the endzone’s plane, but, officials did not even take the time to review either of the plays. Secondly, in the Houston game, a 4th down pass by Tyson Lee that put the Dawgs on UH’s 3 yard line-for a first down, was called back due to the officials ruling that Lee crossed the line of scrimmage before releasing the ball. Once again, not even reviewed, and from the replay we know for certain, the pass was legal. Lastly, the TD that sealed the game Saturday night for the Gators, was a pick 6 returned by Devin Doe, who while celebrating across the goal line, was stripped of the ball by Brandon McCrae, who also recovered the ball in the endzone. Replays clearly show that Doe had not crossed the goal line before the ball came loose. So, after weeks of being screwed by bad calls and lack of camera angles, I have a solution to instant replay! Simply give the officials access to every camera angle made available by the broadcast. Also, show the officials what the announcers are seeing, but MUTE what the announcers are saying, in order to remove any bias or influence. I HATE it when the announcers say, “they are seeing exactly what we are”, because apparently they are not. Don’t know if you’ve heard, but Mullen went after the officals yesterday, here’s the article.
Tough Losses, Tough Opponents
The 4 home losses for State, have been against 4 of the top 18 teams in the country.
Anyway, someone mentioned it, and I was thinking the EXACT same thing, we have to be the best 3-5 team in the country…agree? Think of the teams that we have taken to the wire…
Your thoughts on the game, any of this?
