As we turn our calendars from 2013 to 2014 and wrap up the bowl season, it is a good time to look back on the year that was in college football. Here are the top five games, top five surprises and top five disappointments from the 2013 college football season. Feel free to add your…
Monthly Archives: December 2013
2014 Sugar Bowl | Josh Heupel – “Our Players Believe In Both QBs”
The Oklahoma Sooners Coaching Staff continues their vow of silence on the quarterback situation heading into the 2014 Sugar Bowl against the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Both those guys (Knight & Bell) have competed hard. Our players believe in both of those guys, whoever the guy is at quarterback, they really believe and have a lot of confidence in those guys that they’re going to go out play at a high level. -Josh Heupel
The Oklahoma Sooners have a daunting task ahead of them as they head to the Sugar Bowl. Without a few key components available, Josh Heupel and the offense began to prepare those expected to fill those holes. With that said, the emphasis will certainly be on executing early and consistently. However, it is of utmost importance that OU finds a way to score touchdowns while in the redzone assuming they get to the redzone.
That brings us to the quarterback situation as it is nearly impossible to move the football without a viable option at the position. Do the Sooners plan on going with a two quarterback system or stick with a single option? In an attempt to gain an edge, the Oklahoma coaching staff is continuing their vow of silence on the issue.
We ended up working three quarterbacks in the Oklahoma State game. So we’ve played them all. They have all prepared well. Can they all play better at times? Yeah, certainly. But we’re excited about the group we’ve got, the way they’ve competed, the way they’ve pushed each other, and then ultimately whoever is the guy needs to go out and perform well here in a couple days to give ourselves a chance to win. – Josh Heupel
Trevor Knight, the expected starter by many, may have offered up a clue as to what the Oklahoma’s game plan is concerning the quarterbacks.
It’s something everybody has to get used to, playing two quarterbacks. We have continued to help each other grow and we’ve always been ready to play. The Oklahoma State game for instance, all three of us had to play. It’s just about coming into each game ready to be the guy that day. – Trevor Knight
As a team, this group recognizes the situation as has responded in an appropriate manner. The worst case scenario this season would have been a divided locker room but a 10-2 season gives evidence to the contrary.
Both Trevor and Blake have done a great job at accepting roles and both of them are very vocal, much more vocal throughout the season. We realize that both of them can play and both are extremely talented. We look to them for leadership and they’ve both done a great job at accepting that role and embracing it. – Gabe Ikard
There is no doubt that Oklahoma will need to stick to their “next man up” mentality as they will be without two on the offensive line. Thus far, it has played out well while a few youngsters and role players have shown the potential they possess. With two storied programs going head-to-head, this could be a game for the ages (at least that is what the eternal optimist in me says).
New Year’s Eve Bowl Thread And Predictions
There isn’t a better way to spend the last day of the year than by watching football. We don’t have any Big XII teams to watch today but we can always hate on Texas A&M, right? The Aggies have the nightcap game but there are some pretty good games on before then. As you’re watching throughout the day make sure to check in here and leave your thoughts.
Arizona (7-5) vs. Boston College (7-5)
Kickoff: 11:30
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: BC 31 – Arizona 21
MVP: Boston College RB Andre Williams
Virginia Tech (8-4) vs. UCLA (9-3)
Kickoff: 1:00
TV: CBS
Score Prediction: UCLA 23 – Virginia Tech 21
MVP: UCLA QB Brett Hundley
Rice (10-3) vs. Mississippi State (6-6)
Kickoff: 3:00
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Mississippi State 30 – Rice 20
MVP: Mississippi St. QB Dak Prescott
Duke (10-3) vs. Texas A&M (8-4)
Kickoff: 7:00
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Texas A&M 34 – Duke 31
CCM Bowl Pick’em Top 10
|
Rank |
Pick Set |
Correct Picks |
Points |
Possible Points |
|
1 |
jswane |
12 of 19 |
235 |
538 |
|
2 |
LXXIV |
11 of 19 |
228 |
521 |
|
3 |
Mike Conlin’s Nifty Pick Set |
13 of 19 |
222 |
568 |
|
4 |
Pick Set |
11 of 19 |
207 |
464 |
|
5 |
SoonerGenius |
10 of 19 |
196 |
497 |
|
6 |
GasPasser |
12 of 19 |
192 |
483 |
|
7 |
Billy’s Brilliant Pick Set |
13 of 19 |
191 |
511 |
|
8 |
Landry’s Pick’s…. |
12 of 19 |
189 |
553 |
|
9 |
Velvet Knapsack |
10 of 19 |
185 |
472 |
|
10 |
Dr. Pacheco Knows |
12 of 19 |
184 |
541 |
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Louisiana Tech Snaps Oklahoma’s Seven Game Winning Streak, 102-98
Coming down the stretch the Oklahoma Sooners found themselves down three points with the ball. Hoping to put the game into overtime, Jordan Woodard stepped back and fired a three ball that clanked off the rim. Low and behold, Cameron Clark came up with the rebound and dribbled toward the bench. Finding his footing behind the arc, Clark turned and fired a shot that hit nothing but net as the fans went crazy. They came for 40-minutes but were treated to overtime.
With two players fouled out, the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs looked to have a small chance of pulling this out and quickly found themselves in a four point deficit. As Ryan Spangler fouled out, a momentum swing occurred and Alex Hamilton took over. After scoring 21 points in regulation, Hamilton poured in another 10 in overtime for a game high 31 points as La Tech stole one from the Sooners, 102-98.
The Good
It’s always seemingly more difficult to find the good in a heartbreak loss such as the one tonight. However, I will attempt to do so. The Sooners continue to jump out to quick starts leaving their opponent in the dust. Often times, this move cripples the confidence of the opposition…
The Bad
Unfortunately, the other side of the aforementioned equation has Oklahoma letting off the gas pedal as their opponent strings together a run. In tonight’s scenario, OU let a double-digit lead slip behind a 2-16 run as their opponent evened the score before halftime.
For the second time this season, the Sooners lost the battle on the boards 43-42. While it is a slim margin, it is a negative margin nonetheless. The first time this squad lost the rebounding battle, they subsequently lost the game as well…to Michigan St.
Top Performers
Oklahoma Sooners: Cameron Clark led the Sooners with 26 points after a slow start. But, the real star was Ryan Spangler who poured in 20 points to go along with 13 rebounds. OU had four others score in double-digits including all five starters and Frank Booker who had 12 off the bench.
La Tech Bulldogs: Alex Smith scored a game high 31 points as he led his team to victory. Behind him, Raheem Appleby added another 22 points while Cordarius Johnson gave the Bulldogs a boost with 17 of the bench.
More from Crimson And Cream Machine
- Oklahoma Sooners Head Coach Bob Stoops Being Considered For NFL Openings
- Monday’s Open Bowl Thread And Predictions
- 2014 Sugar Bowl | Mike Stoops – “Our Whole Defense Is A Little Bit Undersized”
- Oklahoma Sooners MBB | Opponent Preview: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
- 2014 Sugar Bowl – Scouting The Enemy | Alabama’s Offensive Line
Oklahoma Sooners Head Coach Bob Stoops Being Considered For NFL Openings
For years now, Bob Stoops name has surfaced in reference to top tier job openings in the NCAA. Until now, the Oklahoma Sooners head coach has shot down any and all rumors. However, the NFL Network is adding a new wrinkle to the mix. On what has been dubbed as “Black Monday,” several NFL coaching jobs have now been made available. It just so happens that Bob Stoops name could come into focus with the recent success of other NCAA coaches making the jump to the NFL.
As originally reported by SBNation’s Mother Site, there could be some interest from Stoops.
“Another name to watch, Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops. He also has expressed some interest in joining the NFL,” Rapoport told Rich Eisen on NFL Network during Monday’s coverage of the league’s head-coach firings.
While the man has no experience in the NFL, that does not mean his resume is less than impressive. Since 1999, Bob has racked up 159 wins with 9 BCS Bowl appearances, 8 Conference Championships, and 1 National Title.
Monday’s Open Bowl Thread And Predictions
The Big XII has two more bowl teams in action this evening
As college football’s bowl season rages on the stakes are getting higher as the upper tier conference teams are squaring off in the more prestigious bowls and confidence points are being spent in the pick’em contest. Today brings us yet another full day of bowl action including two Big Tweleve schools rounding it out with the night games, in which we get to say farewell to Mack Brown.
Middle Tennessee (8-4) vs. Navy (8-4)
Kickoff: 10:45 AM
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: MTSU 37 – Navy 31
MVP: MTSU QB Logan Kilgore
Ole Miss (7-5) vs. Georgia Tech (7-5)
Kickoff: 2:15
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Mississippi 30 – GT 24
MVP: Ole Miss QB Bo Wallace
Oregon (10-2) vs. Texas (8-4)
Kickoff: 5:45
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Oregon 31 – Texas 17
MVP: Oregon QB Marcus Mariota
Arizona State (10-3) vs. Texas Tech (7-5)
Kickoff: 9:15
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: ASU 24 – Texas Tech 10
MVP: ASU QB Taylor Kelly
CCM Pick’em Contest Top 10
|
Rank |
Pick Set |
Correct Picks |
Points |
Possible Points |
|
1 |
LXXIV |
9 of 15 |
194 |
557 |
|
2 |
jswane |
9 of 15 |
172 |
541 |
|
3 |
Mike Conlin’s Nifty Pick Set |
10 of 15 |
147 |
587 |
|
4 |
Landry’s Pick’s…. |
9 of 15 |
142 |
579 |
|
5 |
Dr. Pacheco Knows |
9 of 15 |
141 |
567 |
|
6 |
HeathC |
8 of 15 |
137 |
541 |
|
6 |
SoonerGenius |
7 of 15 |
137 |
530 |
|
8 |
alsooner1205 |
11 of 15 |
136 |
576 |
|
9 |
GasPasser |
10 of 15 |
135 |
528 |
|
9 |
Mele Kalikimaka |
7 of 15 |
135 |
548 |
.
2014 Sugar Bowl | Mike Stoops – “Our Whole Defense Is A Little Bit Undersized”
Mike Stoops and the Oklahoma defense had their session with the media on Sunday
“Our whole defense is a little bit undersized as a whole. We’re built more for speed. So, again, we’re going to have to do some things to create some plays with our speed. And that’s just how it is right now. But they’re going to have to play physical. These are big physical backs and a big physical offensive line. So that’s going to be a big part of the game.” -Mike Stoops
Oklahoma defensive coordinator Mike Stoops was completely honest on Sunday when asked about his defense going up against the Alabama offense. The Sooners are small and will have to find a way to get bigger!
The Tide knows that they have the size advantage but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they are down and out. Stoops is devising a game plan to increase the size of his defense but also keep their speed. While he understandably wasn’t willing to give up the details of Oklahoma’s game plan, he did hint around at some of the personnel changes that we may see.
“I think they put bigger personnel in the game. You have to get bigger as well. PL Lindley is a guy. Chaz Nelson. Our edge guys are going to have to be bigger guys to create better matchups for us. Eric is an undersized outside linebacker and getting him matched up on a 6’6″, 260 pound tight end gets tough. So we’re going to have to be creative in what we do and how we do it.” – Mike Stoops
Chaz Nelson is 6-2/237 and PL Lindley is 6-2/254. They’ll be going up against a set of offensive tackles that are 6-6/310 and 6-5/315. You have to think that speed is more crucial to Oklahoma’s attack than the actual size. You don’t want to find yourself in a position where you just get mauled and run over but you also have to do what you’re best at, which is get off the line quickly.
As far as when exactly we’ll see personnel changes, safety Game Lynn may have given us another hint.
“We are going to have to put some bigger players out there in short yardage and goal line [situations]. For the most part, though, I think we have enough players in our starting eleven that match up well with them. It’s going to come down to who wants it more and playing physical.” – Senior safety Gabe Lynn
Aside from the personnel match-up Stoops is also saying that pride is at stake for his team as well because of the massive underdog role they find themselves in.
“I can compare it to the Orange Bowl back in 2000 when we were a 10- or 12-point underdog in the National Championship game. What it did for us going back then, just reminiscing a little bit, it just made our players, I think, pay more attention to detail, prepare to understand what they need to do and understand the challenge. And it’s a pride thing. So the players have prepared well. They’ve looked at it as a great opportunity to see where we’re at against the elite program in college football, and that’s how you go into this game.” – Mike Stoops
As for the players themselves, they didn’t have any problems speaking up either.
“He is a smart quarterback. He’s a really focused player and he knows what he is doing all the time. McCarron gets the ball out to his receivers, and the receivers can really catch. We will definitely have to be on our P’s and Q’s, but we have prepared, and we’re ready for them”. – Corner Aaron Colvin on Alabama Quarterback AJ McCarron
“We have to change some things, but I think we’ve seen some similar things from other offenses, such as Texas’ offense. We have some guys who can move around and can play, so we will be fine.” – Safety Gabe Lynn
“They’re a tough-minded team. They’re very physical. This is probably going to be the most physical game we’re going to play all season. They’re a football team, so we’re going to go out there and play football. “ – Defensive Tackle Chuka Ndulue
“We have to stop the run game. We have to stop T.J. Yeldon from making the amazing plays, like he always does. We have to get some push on the offensive line and make sure we get into the backfield. “ – Defensive end Charles Tapper on stopping Alabama’s offense
More from Crimson And Cream Machine
- Oklahoma Sooners MBB | Opponent Preview: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
- 2014 Sugar Bowl – Scouting The Enemy | Alabama’s Offensive Line
- Sooner Nation Podcast Previews The Sugar Bowl With Roll Bama Roll
- Allstate Sugar Bowl | Can The Oklahoma Sooners Find & Exploit The Alabama Crimson Tide Offensive Weaknesses?
- College Football Saturday Bowl Thread And Predictions
Oklahoma Sooners MBB | Opponent Preview: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
The Oklahoma Sooners are currently on a seven game winning streak and stand 11-1 on the season. As this week’s AP Poll released, OU finds themselves ranked 26th in the nation. With a substantial amount of time off, the squad returns to the hardwood for the first time since December 21st to face the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. The contest marks the final non-conference game for Oklahoma as well as a big step in getting to the 20 win mark.
The Opponent
A 27-win campaign has the Bulldogs ready to transition into Conference USA from the WAC. Under the direction of Michael White, Louisiana Tech is 6-2 away from home this season largely due to a stout defense. Michale Kyser leads the way as the rim protector/shot changer. Currently Kyser is swatting 4.2 shots per game while pulling down rebound after rebound on the defensive glass. He could very well single-handedly change the course of the game.
Make no mistake, the Bulldogs like to put up some points as well. As a team, this squad averages 81.8 points per game on 47.4% shooting. With eight players averaging 15+ minutes per outing, Coach White has plenty of options to choose from in order to get the desired results.
Raheem Appleby is the team’s leading scorer dropping in 16.1 points a night. At 6-4, his frame may be a bit light holding 160 but Appleby knows how to score. Five times this season, this kid has poured in 20 or more points and will be looking to make it six.
Behind him, Alex Hamilton adds his own 13.8 points while Chris Anderson rounds out the trio with 10.6 of his own. This group can stretch any defense out forcing an opponent to exert a decent amount of energy to cover the floor. It could spell trouble for the Crimson and Cream in Norman.
The Game
The contest tips off at 7:05 PM CST on Monday, December 30th. Fortunately for those unable to attend the game, it will be aired on FS Oklahoma as well as FOX College Sports Central.
2014 Sugar Bowl – Scouting The Enemy | Alabama’s Offensive Line
Alabama’s offensive line has only allowed quarterback AJ McCarron to be sacked 10 times this season.
Any offense is only as good as their offensive line allows them to be and there’s a reason why Alabama is one of the best teams in the nation. The Tide offense averages 449 yards and 38.8 points per game, quarterback AJ McCarron is completing 67% of his passes and Alabama is rushing for a team average of six yards per carry. Its all fueled by what they do upfront where they average 6-5/308 across the line.
They have a great first step back in pass protection. Notice where the line of scrimmage is (black line) on this play against Virginia Tech and the tackles have yet to engage in blocking the ends. This allows them quickly form the pocket, drive crashing ends further out, and give McCarron wider passing lanes.
The Hokies only rush four on this play and don’t even get close to McCarron before he throws. The defensive ends are seven and eight yards from the line of scrimmage which gives the quarterback plenty of room to step up into the pocket if he needs to buy an extra second or two. Notice that McCarron is back far enough from the line to throw down the middle, if he wants, and also has clear passing lanes to his left and to his right. Alabama’s offensive line couldn’t have blocked this play more perfectly.
They are physical enough to move their defensive counterparts around enough to create efficient running lanes. This is a draw play against Texas A&M where TJ Yeldon has three lanes to choose from, including a gaping lane to the left. Its no wonder this ended up being a big gain for Alabama.
The question mark on the offensive line is at the right guard position where senior Anthony Steen is out. Its still unclear as to who will replace Bama’s all-conference guard but its not feasible to think that they can lose a starter of that caliber and still perform at the same level.
I don’t think that Oklahoma will have the ability to overpower Alabama’s offensive line so the best way to attack them is with speed. The Sooners are going to have to get bigger on the ends which means that Chaz Nelson and PL Lindley will see more playing time and gives them room to get creative with how they’ll use Charles Tapper. Regardless of where they line up, they’ll have to be quick off the ball in order to have any chance at winning the battle up front.
Sooner Nation Podcast Previews The Sugar Bowl Tonight At 8:30 With Roll Bama Roll
Its Sugar Bowl preview time! Joining us tonight is bammer from SBN’s Alabama site Roll Bama Roll. On tap for that discussion are the topics of…
Use the media player to listen to the podcast live tonight, beginning at 8:30 (CST)
* Alabama’s mentality going into the game
* Game planning against the Tide’s offense
* Defending the zone-read
Well, there’s actually more but you’ll have to listen to find out.
Rich and I will also discuss how the Sooners should attack the Alabama defense and make our score predictions.
We’ll also breakdown Oklahoma’s final non-conference game of the basketball season as the Sooners get ready to host Louisiana Tech.
You can participate in the conversation by using the comments section below.
Allstate Sugar Bowl | Can The Oklahoma Sooners Find & Exploit The Alabama Crimson Tide Offensive Weaknesses?
The Alabama Crimson Tide entered the season with the top ranking and expectations of bring home yet another national championship. As the year wore on, a few weaknesses were exposed while the Tide continued to prove victorious. However, a hiccup occurred with a devastating last second loss to the Auburn Tigers in the Iron Bowl. Now, heading the Sugar Bowl, the Oklahoma Sooners will look to exploit the weaknesses previously revealed by other teams.
The Foreseeable Weaknesses
The Offensive Line
It is no secret that the offensive line works as a cohesive unit. After replacing a few key components, the Crimson Tide began working toward that very goal. Eventually, this group solidified as one of the best OLs in the nation opening up running lanes and passing lanes for AJ McCarron and TJ Yeldon. It is a large part of why this offense has the ability to be extremely balanced rushing for 212 yards while passing for 236.9 yards per game. But the story begins far before these numbers were generated.
On opening day, the Virginia Tech Hokies played host to Alabama. In a 35-10 loss, Bud Foster orchestrated a masterpiece defensively to keep his opponent on edge. Quickly recognizing the weakness in the trenches, the Hokies took advantage to come up with four sacks (considering the Crimson Tide have given up ten all season, this number proves fairly impressive). With constant pressure and mixed looks/blitzes, VT held the opposing quarterback to a mere 43.5% completion rate for 110 yards while intercepting one pass making it apparent that AJ McCarron is no mobile QB.
Now, once again, Nick Saban and his offensive line find themselves forced to insert a new piece as guard Anthony Steen will sit out due to shoulder surgery. If Oklahoma is looking to find a chink in the armor, this may be the best place to start. If Eric Striker and/or Charles Tapper can get in the backfield early and often, it could spell trouble for their opponent.
The Wide Receivers
Make no mistake, Alabama possesses one of the best talents in the nation at WR with Amari Cooper. Each an every year, the Crimson Tide have found success at putting offensive weapons on the field. But let’s be honest…it isn’t hard to land top recruits when the program is competing (and winning) national championships each and every year. Regardless, a quarterback can’t make a throw if his receiver isn’t open. It is this mentality that the Mississippi Bulldogs approached Bama with.
Early in November, this struggling Bulldogs team took their talents to Tuscaloosa and put their own secondary to the test. Challenged to cover receivers for long periods of time, MSU appeared to be up for it. With a smothering effort, Mississippi St. held the opposing quarterback to a 56.3% completion rate and 186 yards while forcing two interceptions.
As AJ McCarron, averaging a 67.6% completion rate, stood like a statue in the pocket looking for an open receiver, he found none. For the second time of 2013, a team forced this Heisman candidate into completing less than 60% of his passes as the offense sputtered with the defense pulled out a 20-7 win.
For Oklahoma, Aaron Colvin has been a lock down corner with NFL talent. He will be called upon to do much of what Mississippi St. was capable of doing in an attempt to slow down this offense. Of course it will be a combined effort in helping the youngster, Zack Sanchez on the other side of the field by playing a safety over the top. But, Sanchez has been tested previously and fared well.
Reality Check
While both Virginia Tech and Mississippi St. were able to slow down this offense, they simply failed to win the game. Just because a team finds a weakness to exploit does not guarantee victory. The Alabama Crimson Tide is still considered by many to be the best team in the nation regardless of the ranking and BCS Bowl bid. The outcome of the game largely depends on how well the Sooner offense plays against the Bama defense which we will get to in the coming days.
College Football Saturday Bowl Thread And Predictions
The Big XII finally enters the bowl season today
Its the last Saturday of the year and there’s no better way to spend it than by watching college football bowl games. To make things a bit more interesting the Big XII finally gets its feet wet with Kansas State playing in the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl. It should be the best day of bowl games that we’ve have so far so make sure to stop in throughout the day to share your predictions and thoughts on the bowl action.
Rutgers (6-6) vs. Notre Dame (8-4)
Kickoff: 11:00 AM
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: ND 45 – Rutgers 21
MVP: ND QB Tommy Rees
Cincinnati (9-3) vs. North Carolina (6-6)
Kickoff: 2:20 PM
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: UNC 31 – Cincinnati 21
MVP: UNC QB Bryn Renner
Miami (9-3) vs. #18 Louisville (11-1)
Kickoff: 5:45 PM
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Louisville 34 – Miami 28
MVP: Louisville RB Dominique Brown
Michigan (7-5) vs. Kansas State (7-5)
Kickoff: 9:15 PM
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: KSU 35 – Michigan 31
MVP: KSU QB Jake Waters
More from Crimson And Cream Machine
2014 Sugar Bowl – Scouting The Enemy | Running Back T.J. Yeldon
Yeldon has rushed for a hundred yards or more six times this season.
The Alabama rushing attack isn’t solely a one man show but it certainly could be. Sophomore running back Kenyan Drake is just seven carries shy of a hundred for the season and is averaging 7.5 yards per carry with eight touchdowns. However, he’s not the guy on Alabama’s roster that keeps defensive coordinators up all night. That distinction goes to the other sophomore running back, T.J. Yeldon.
A terrific running back has three key characteristics and Yeldon possesses all of them. He’s got speed, vision, and quick feet, all of which will make him one of the nation’s top backs, and most likely a Heisman contender, next fall. For now, though, he’s Oklahoma’s problem and its a big problem.
Speed – I’m not sure what his official 40 time is but if you watch any film on him at all it won’t take you long to see him running away from defenders. Its goes without saying that Oklahoma needs to keep him from getting into any open spaces but his abilities make that a tall task. Don’t confuse speed with finesse either because because Yeldon can definitely run with power.
Vision – Often times running backs get tunnel vision and only see the assigned gap that they’re supposed to run through. That doesn’t seem to be the case at all with Yeldon who does a fantastic job at cutting back or bouncing his run to the outside. He sees the entire field, instead of the assigned gap, and does a great job at finding another lane or blocker to run behind.
Quick Feet – Good field vision is just one part of “improvising” a run. In order to do as consistently as Yeldon does you have to have quick feet. He’s able shift back inside, or bounce back out, while keeping his shoulders squared and rotating his hips (keeps him from losing power) because he’s able to keep his feet squarely under him which allows him to keep balance. Essentially he’s able to cut and change directions without losing speed and that makes him incredibly dangerous.
We’ve mentioned Alabama’s balance on offense multiple times and my opinion is that putting the breaks on Yeldon has to be the primary focus of Oklahoma’s defense. For the Sooners to attempt to do so will but their defensive tackles and linebackers at center stage. The Tide are averaging 212 rushing yards per game this season and Yeldon is averaging 105 per contest. If they hit those numbers against OU then it won’t be a good sign for the good guys.
2014 Sugar Bowl Preview | #11 Oklahoma vs. #3 Alabama
The 2014 Sugar Bowl kicks off at 7:30 PM on January 2nd
At first glance you might be unimpressed by the fact that Alabama is only ranked 60th in the nation in passing, but a clear understanding of how the Tide’s offense works should send shivers down your spine. Balance is the key to Bama’s average of 38.8 points per game and senior quarterback AJ McCarron is the to that balance. Alabama averages 237 yards per game through the air and 212 on the ground. The two aspects of the Crimson Tide offense go hand-in-hand and they’ll beat you with either or, it really doesn’t matter to them.
McCarron has completed a career-high 67% of his passes this season for 2,676 yards, 26 touchdowns and just 5 interceptions. His arm strength is more than adequate, his field vision is superb and there may not be a better game manager in college football. Those are the little things that make McCarron the quarterback he is but here’s the meat and potatoes of his scouting report.
* He has great footwork! McCarron doesn’t chop his feet but he does stay on his toes and maintains balance. It looks almost like his hopping but because of his balance he’s able to point his toe and swivel his hips. This allows him to throw with accuracy and power. It also helps him to slide to his left or right to buy some extra time.
* He has nice touch. One of the things that McCarron does really good is the follow-through on his passes. Its almost as if he over-plays it, but that’s the sign up a quarterback who is disciplined in his mechanics. A good follow-through helps the nose of the football rise and fall, during its trajectory, and it helps keep the spiral straight. There isn’t a receiver in the country who doesn’t appreciate that!
* He had great field vision. McCarron seems to feel the pressure rather than sees it. This is a natural ability of great quarterbacks and allows him to keep his eyes down field. Not only does he see where his targets are, but he sees where they’re going to be. This ability is huge for ball placement.
* He’s patient in the pocket. Alabama has done a very good job at protecting McCarron this season. He’s only been sacked 10 times, a career low, which is why we shouldn’t be surprised that he’s got a career-high completion percentage. Even with the great protection, he’s still patient in waiting for his receivers to make their separation. This is usually frustrating to a defense because his failure to panic, but slide to his left or right instead, results in good throws instead of a rushed under or over throw.
* He’s a master at the play-action. Most quarterbacks stand tall through their play-fakes so that can maintain their down-field vision. McCarron actually ducks and pulls his shoulders in during his play-fakes. This helps to sell the fake and freeze the defense for that extra second or two. Multiple times you’ll see McCarron throw to a wide open receiver off a play-fake and the reason why is because the safety, linebacker or corner bit really hard on it.
This isn’t to say that he’s the perfect quarterback because, like Sasquatch and the Loch Ness Monster, such a thing doesn’t exist. Sometimes he trusts his receivers too much and will throw into double coverage and sometimes he puts too much air under the ball. However, his pros far outweigh his cons and he’ll definitely be a headache for the Sooner defense to limit.
More from Crimson And Cream Machine
- Sugar Bowl Preview Primer | CCM Interviewed By Mark RogersTV
- Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #3 Eric Striker Hit & Corey Nelson INT Return
- Monday Afternoon Bowl Thread | Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl Predictions
- Sooner Nation Podcast | Dissecting The Alabama Offense
- Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #4 Jalen Saunders Punt Return
Looking Inside The Crystal Ball And Predicting The Big XII’s Bowl Outcomes
The bowl season officially gets started for the Big Twelve on Saturday when Kansas State takes on Michigan in the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl. From there the conference will participate in six bowl games over the next seven days. However, we should probably brace ourselves for some pretty horrid results as its likely the conference will produce yet another year with a sub .500 bowl record.
The crystal ball predictions have been a staple here at CCM for several years now but this year we’re adding to it by giving you double the predictions as Rich joins the fun. Here it goes!
Saturday, December 28th
Matt
Kansas State 35 – Michigan 31
The Wildcats caught a huge break this week with the announcement that Michigan quarterback Devin Gardner wouldn’t be available due to a foot injury. Sometimes a break is exactly what you need and I believe this gives the Wildcats the slight edge that they need in this game. Look for Michigan to jump to an early lead but some costly mistakes will doom them late as Kansas State pulls off a second half comeback.
MVP: KSU QB Jake Waters
Rich
Kansas State 35 – Michigan 17
The Wolverines will take a leap backwards without starting QB Devin Gardner. In his place, Shane Morris shoulders a heavy burden as the coaching staff slims up the playbook. Combine that with an offensive line that rarely showed up along with a young running back and we have the perfect storm. Ultimately, due to the pass rush, Kansas St. forces their opponent to become one dimensional as they ride defense and special teams to victory.
MVP: KSU receiver Tyler Lockett
Monday, December 30
Rich
Oregon 56 – Texas 26
The Longhorns have made strides this season after knocking off Oklahoma in a heated rivalry. With the ability to control the clock through the heavy running game, UT makes it a game for the first 30 minutes of play. However, in the second half, the Oregon Ducks speed and talent takes over.
MVP: Oregon QB Marcus Mariota
Matt
Oregon 31 – Texas 17
The emotional surge of this being Mack Brown’s final game at Texas will last for about a quarter. Then the reality of Oregon having an advantage on both sides of the ball will pop up. Look for the Ducks to dominate the second and third quarters before a ho-hum fourth quarter closes out the game.
MVP: Oregon QB Marcus Mariota
Monday, December 30
Matt
ASU 24 – Texas Tech 10
Unfortunately Texas Tech’s late season slide will run over into their bowl game as they got paired up in a complete mismatch of a game against the Sun Devils. I expect Arizona State to lead this game from wire-to-wire with the Red Raiders making it close in the middle two quarters.
MVP: ASU Quarterback Taylor Kelly
Rich
ASU 35 – Texas Tech 21
After an unexpected start, the Red Raiders faced an unforeseen slide losing the final five games of the season. Needless to say, this was a team exposed as the quarterback and quarterbacks coach bolted for other programs. Although Tech comes out with an early lead, they lack the power to dominate the Sun Devils. In the final three quarters, ASU takes over to win this one.
MVP: ASU RB Marion Grice
Wednesday, January 1
Rich
Baylor 56 – UCF 27
Tevin Reese is coming back for the bowl game to surround Bryce Petty with some talent for the Bears. Although UCF is better than some give them credit for, Baylor’s offense is too much too handle. With big yardage plays that take little time off the clock, the Bears run away with this one.
MVP: Baylor QB Bryce Petty
Matt
Baylor 42 – UCF 24
This is a tough spot for Baylor because if they win its just Central Florida but if they lose its an epic fail that reflects poorly on the entire conference. Fortunately losing shouldn’t be an option for the Bears as they have way too many offensive weapons to use against the Knights and a pretty good defense as well. Baylor wins this game by a comfortable margin.
MVP: Baylor QB Bryce Petty
Thursday, January 2
Matt
Alabama 48 – Oklahoma 20
The blatant homer in me says that Oklahoma never loses but the realist in me says a completely different story. This is a monumental task for the Sooners to take on and I’m not at all convinced that they have the manpower necessary to overcome the challenge. Unfortunately I see the tide dominating from start to finish.
MVP: Alabama QB AJ McCarron
Rich
Alabama 24 – Oklahoma 17
The Sooners possess the components of football that have given Bama problems. Trevor Knight exploits the weakness while the defensive secondary causes AJ McCarron to struggle. Regardless the Crimson Tide have proven you need more that a few wrinkles to take them down.
MVP: Alabama RB TJ Yeldon
Friday, January 3rd
Rich
Missouri 35 – OSU 31
There are few pass rushes that rival that of the Tigers. Yet, the Cowboys have had a stellar year defensively as well. In a stalemate, it comes down to who is going to have a better day…Dorial Green-Beckham or Justin Gilbert. Undoubtedly turnovers play a role in this game as Mizzou wins a close one.
MVP: Missouri WR Dorial Green-Beckham
Matt
Oklahoma State 24 – Missouri 17
The Big XII needs this game because it will be the best bowl win for the conference. Oklahoma State and Missouri are pretty evenly matched but I give the Cowboys a slight offensive advantage. Look for a late score by O-State to put this game away.
MVP: OSU QB Clint Chelf
More from Crimson And Cream Machine
Friday Bowl Thread & Predictions
Here’s an idea for ya, take my bowl predictions and go the opposite way with them because I’ve been absolutely atrocious so far. That said, I’ll press on as today provides us with near wall-to-wall bowl games featuring a bunch of teams that you haven’t seen all season long but are going to watch anyway because the season is coming to a close and you gotta have your football fix.
Marshall (9-4) vs. Maryland (7-5)
Kickoff: 1:30
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Marshall 28 – Maryland 10
MVP: Marshall QB Rakeem Cato
Syracuse (6-6) vs. Minnesota (8-4)
Kickoff: 5:00
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Minnesota 34 – Syracuse 17
MVP: Minnesota RB David Cobb
BYU (8-4) vs. Washington (8-4)
Kickoff: 8:30
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Washington 41 – BYU 24
MVP: Washington RB Bishop Sankey
CCM Bowl Pick’em Top 10
|
Rank |
Pick Set |
Correct Picks |
Points |
Possible Points |
|
1 |
SoonerGenius |
5 of 8 |
86 |
566 |
|
2 |
LXXIV |
3 of 8 |
83 |
564 |
|
3 |
Billy’s Brilliant Pick Set |
5 of 8 |
75 |
579 |
|
4 |
Velvet Knapsack |
4 of 8 |
72 |
554 |
|
5 |
alsooner1205 |
5 of 8 |
67 |
600 |
|
6 |
You Serious Clark? |
4 of 8 |
66 |
585 |
|
7 |
USARMYVET’s Legit Pick Set |
3 of 8 |
63 |
536 |
|
8 |
hammond rebels |
4 of 8 |
61 |
553 |
|
9 |
SoonerMike |
3 of 8 |
60 |
597 |
|
10 |
Dr. Pacheco Knows |
3 of 8 |
57 |
573 |
.
Thursday Evening Bowl Thread & Game Predictions
Jordan Lynch and the Huskies round cap off the night with the Poinsettia Bowl.
After a one day hiatus for Christmas, the bowl season is once again in full swing with two games on tap for tonight. Up first are the MAC champions against a team that was sub .500 in the ACC. Who isn’t stoked about that? The night cap could legitimately turn out to be one of the better bowl games of the year as Heisman finalist, Jordan Lynch, leads Northern Illinois against Utah State. I think that you’ll definitely want to keep tabs on that one.
Pittsburgh (6-6) vs. Bowling Green (10-2)
Kickoff: 5:00
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: Bowling Green 31 – Pitt 20
MVP: BG RB Travis Greene
Utah State (8-5) vs. Northern Illinois 12-1
Kickoff: 8:30
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: NIU 31 – Utah State 30
MVP: NIU QB Jordan Lynch
CCM Pick’em Contest Top 10
|
Rank |
Pick Set |
Correct Picks |
Points |
Possible Points |
|
1 |
LXXIV |
3 of 6 |
83 |
573 |
|
2 |
Billy’s Brilliant Pick Set |
5 of 6 |
75 |
615 |
|
3 |
Velvet Knapsack |
3 of 6 |
69 |
577 |
|
4 |
alsooner1205 |
5 of 6 |
67 |
625 |
|
5 |
You Serious Clark? |
4 of 6 |
66 |
605 |
|
6 |
SoonerGenius |
3 of 6 |
64 |
566 |
|
7 |
USARMYVET’s Legit Pick Set |
3 of 6 |
63 |
572 |
|
8 |
SoonerMike |
3 of 6 |
60 |
613 |
|
9 |
Dr. Pacheco Knows |
3 of 6 |
57 |
590 |
|
9 |
philster0202 |
4 of 6 |
57 |
57 |
via SSFeeds http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/12/26/5246152/thursday-evening-bowl-thread-game-predictions
2014 Sugar Bowl – Scouting The Enemy| Bama’s Receivers
Sophomore Amari Cooper is one of three Tide receivers with 36 receptions this season.
When it comes to balance, Alabama is completely sold on it. The Tide are averaging 237 yards per game in the air and 212 on the ground. They’ve run the ball 426 times this season and passed it 335. Alabama has rushed for 26 touchdowns and quarterback AJ McCarron has passed for…26 touchdowns. Balance is what makes a team good and perhaps no one in the country is better at balance than Alabama. They’re even balanced in the way that they share receptions from their quarterback. Receivers Amari Cooper, Kevin Norwood and Christion Jones each have exactly 36 receptions on the season.
Basically Alabama has a three-headed monster of a receiving corps and Oklahoma’s task is to try and contain it. Part of that starts with putting pressure on McCarron but in order to do that the Sooners will have to cover well enough to make him check down in his reads. Here’s a look at the guys that are the other half of Alabama’s passing attack.
(#9) Sophomore, Amari Cooper (6-1/202) – After a stellar freshman campaign that saw Cooper gain a thousand receiving yards, he’s had a very solid sophomore season. Averaging 17.1 yards per reception, he’s been on the receiving end of a touchdown pass four times this year. His best game of the year came in the epic loss to Auburn where he caught 6 passes for 178 yards, including a 99-yard touchdown.
A speedy receiver, who has good body control, Cooper is a master at working the sidelines and can turn a small amount of separation into a large gap very quickly. Perhaps the most interesting stat about Cooper is that his yards per reception average goes up to 20.4 yards against ranked opponents.
(#83) Senior, Kevin Norwood (6-2/195) – He’s not a big body receiver but he plays like one. Norwood has great hands but also has a knack at sealing off a defender with his body so that only he has a shot at catching the ball. The combination of his great body positioning and hands has him leading the team with seven touchdown receptions.
It sounds crazy with all three receivers having the same number of catches but Norwood seems to be the gut that McCarron goes to in a pinch. Cooper is the speedy/home run threat and Norwood is the third down/ red zone target. He’s averaging 14.9 yards per reception and has a season long of fifty yards that came against Chattanooga. He’s only cracked the century mark once this season and that was against Tennessee when he caught six passes for 112 yards.
(#22) Junior, Christian Jones (5-11/185) – There’s no other way to say it, this kid is dangerous. He’s a speedster that can make plays anytime the ball is in his hands. Oklahoma fans would compare him to Jalen Saunders in the area of play-making ability because he make the highlight reels on both offense and special teams. Averaging 9.7 yards per reception on the season, he also took a kickoff and a punt to the house against Virginia Tech in the opener and has been known to lay some devastating hits hits while on the coverage teams.
The scariest part about Alabama’s receivers is that Oklahoma has the tendency to play soft coverage and give the receivers a cushion and these guys can make you pay dearly for doing that. They’re not really big enough where they’re going to out-muscle you but they sure can out-run you. The Sooners may be better served by trying to get physical with them by pushing them around a bit and keeping tight coverage.
Oklahoma wants McCarron keeping the ball in his hands a bit longer than he’s used to and the only way that happens is if they can put a blanked on the Bama receivers. Nope…that won’t be easy at all.
More from Crimson And Cream Machine
- Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #1 Michael Hunnicutt Fake Field Goal
- Merry Christmas From Crimson And Cream Machine
- Christmas Eve Bowl Thread And Predictions | Hawaii Bowl
- Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #2 Eric Striker Channels The Hulk
- 2014 Sugar Bowl – Scouting The Enemy | Alabama Quarterback AJ McCarron
Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #1 Michael Hunnicutt Fake Field Goal
Heading into Bedlam, the Oklahoma Sooners found themselves as an underdog facing in-state foe, the Oklahoma St. Cowboys. If the first play from the line of scrimmage was any indication of how the game would unfold, it appeared Bob Stoops and company had a long road ahead. Fortunately, the 75-yard TD run was called back setting up a close battle.
With the third quarter coming to an end, the Sooners found themselves down a touchdown and in need of a score. On fourth and goal from the 8-yard line, OU lined up for a 25-yard field goal attempt. What happened next was possibly the gutsiest call by the Oklahoma staff all season…
The touchdown swung momentum in the direction of the Sooners as they rode the wave to three scores in the 4th quarter to the Cowboys one. Winning Bedlam effectively ended Oklahoma St.’s hopes of earning a BCS bid.
Merry Christmas From Crimson And Cream Machine
Hopefully today is a day in which you can enjoy the company of family, the joy of giving, and the satisfaction of not being a Longhorn or a Cowboy. Merry Christmas everyone.
Boomer!!!
via SSFeeds http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/12/25/5243308/merry-christmas-from-crimson-and-cream-machine
Christmas Eve Bowl Thread And Predictions | Hawaii Bowl
How can you not be excited about the Hawaii Bowl? What’s that? Its Christmas Eve and you’re more focused on your family and getting the kids ready for Santa’s visit. Well as you’re sneaking peeks, at what should be a really fun game, make sure to share your thoughts with us. Here’s the lowdown on the game, along with some predictions, followed by the most recently updated Top 10 in our bowl pick’em contest.
Boise State (8-4) vs. Oregon State (6-6)
Kickoff: 7:00
TV: ESPN
Score Prediction: BSU 35 – OSU 30
MVP: BSU RB Jay Ajayi
|
Rank |
Pick Set |
Correct Picks |
Points |
Possible Points |
|
1 |
Billy’s Brilliant Pick Set |
4 of 5 |
72 |
615 |
|
2 |
LXXIV |
2 of 5 |
57 |
573 |
|
3 |
SoonerGenius |
2 of 5 |
54 |
566 |
|
3 |
Mike Conlin’s Nifty Pick Set |
3 of 5 |
54 |
615 |
|
5 |
Dr. Pacheco Knows |
2 of 5 |
50 |
590 |
|
6 |
SoonerMike |
2 of 5 |
49 |
613 |
|
6 |
alsooner1205 |
4 of 5 |
49 |
625 |
|
8 |
Velvet Knapsack |
2 of 5 |
48 |
577 |
|
8 |
You Serious Clark? |
3 of 5 |
48 |
605 |
|
10 |
USARMYVET’s Legit Pick Set |
2 of 5 |
47 |
572 |
Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #2 Eric Striker Channels The Hulk
There are simply no words to describe this hit outside of…Hulk Smash.
Blake Griffin puts on his serious face for new commercial
Erik Horne
Blake Griffin usually takes the funny route when it comes to his commercials, but in his latest offering he gets a little more serious.
In this promo, the former OU star talks about his family and the influence of former Sooners coach Jeff Capel, who told Griffin “you have to fall in love with the process of becoming great.”
via SSFeeds http://newsok.com/blake-griffin-puts-on-his-serious-face-for-new-commercial/article/3917635?custom_click=rss
Power Lunch: Chat with Berry Tramel
berry tramel
via SSFeeds http://newsok.com/power-lunch-chat-with-berry-tramel/article/3917620?custom_click=rss
2014 Sugar Bowl – Scouting The Enemy | Alabama Quarterback AJ McCarron
Alabama is 36-3 since McCarron became the starting quarterback.
At first glance you might be unimpressed by the fact that Alabama is only ranked 60th in the nation in passing, but a clear understanding of how the Tide’s offense works should send shivers down your spine. Balance is the key to Bama’s average of 38.8 points per game and senior quarterback AJ McCarron is the to that balance. Alabama averages 237 yards per game through the air and 212 on the ground. The two aspects of the Crimson Tide offense go hand-in-hand and they’ll beat you with either or, it really doesn’t matter to them.
McCarron has completed a career-high 67% of his passes this season for 2,676 yards, 26 touchdowns and just 5 interceptions. His arm strength is more than adequate, his field vision is superb and there may not be a better game manager in college football. Those are the little things that make McCarron the quarterback he is but here’s the meat and potatoes of his scouting report.
* He has great footwork! McCarron doesn’t chop his feet but he does stay on his toes and maintains balance. It looks almost like his hopping but because of his balance he’s able to point his toe and swivel his hips. This allows him to throw with accuracy and power. It also helps him to slide to his left or right to buy some extra time.
* He has nice touch. One of the things that McCarron does really good is the follow-through on his passes. Its almost as if he over-plays it, but that’s the sign up a quarterback who is disciplined in his mechanics. A good follow-through helps the nose of the football rise and fall, during its trajectory, and it helps keep the spiral straight. There isn’t a receiver in the country who doesn’t appreciate that!
* He had great field vision. McCarron seems to feel the pressure rather than sees it. This is a natural ability of great quarterbacks and allows him to keep his eyes down field. Not only does he see where his targets are, but he sees where they’re going to be. This ability is huge for ball placement.
* He’s patient in the pocket. Alabama has done a very good job at protecting McCarron this season. He’s only been sacked 10 times, a career low, which is why we shouldn’t be surprised that he’s got a career-high completion percentage. Even with the great protection, he’s still patient in waiting for his receivers to make their separation. This is usually frustrating to a defense because his failure to panic, but slide to his left or right instead, results in good throws instead of a rushed under or over throw.
* He’s a master at the play-action. Most quarterbacks stand tall through their play-fakes so that can maintain their down-field vision. McCarron actually ducks and pulls his shoulders in during his play-fakes. This helps to sell the fake and freeze the defense for that extra second or two. Multiple times you’ll see McCarron throw to a wide open receiver off a play-fake and the reason why is because the safety, linebacker or corner bit really hard on it.
This isn’t to say that he’s the perfect quarterback because, like Sasquatch and the Loch Ness Monster, such a thing doesn’t exist. Sometimes he trusts his receivers too much and will throw into double coverage and sometimes he puts too much air under the ball. However, his pros far outweigh his cons and he’ll definitely be a headache for the Sooner defense to limit.
More from Crimson And Cream Machine
- Sugar Bowl Preview Primer | CCM Interviewed By Mark RogersTV
- Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #3 Eric Striker Hit & Corey Nelson INT Return
- Monday Afternoon Bowl Thread | Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl Predictions
- Sooner Nation Podcast | Dissecting The Alabama Offense
- Oklahoma Football Top Plays Of 2013 | #4 Jalen Saunders Punt Return
SoonerSource 