Go Beavs: An Oregon State Dynasty

[GMSFootballa54]

Ahhh, I wanna be a recruit...please?

[Emac78]

Ahhh, I wanna be a recruit...please?

Sure. No problem. Only thing is it is almost May and the new game will be out in July. I'm not sure how many more seasons I'll get to in that amount of time.

Name: First and last
Location: City, State
Skin color:
Position:
Skills:
Equipment:

[Emac78]

Game of the Week

#20 Oregon (8-2) at #2 UCLA (10-0)

Chris: Welcome to gorgeous Pasadena for an important Pac-10 matchup between the #20 Oregon Ducks (Crowd mostly boos) and the undefeated #2 UCLA Bruins. (Crowd cheers) Oregon State's upset of USC has upset the balance and now allows the Bruins a chance to not only win the conference but maybe play for a national title. But the Bruins have to get by the Ducks today and next week a game we might very well cover against USC. So these are two huge games for UCLA. It is somewhat surprising to many that we are out west this late in the year. Especially, considering Ohio State faces off against Michigan today. The 'Noles and the Gators play today and Georgia and Georgia Tech will duel it out. When we get back, we'll get to all of these games and more...

Games of the Week

#14 Ohio State at #11 Michigan
Kirk: OSU Lee: OSU

#24 Georgia at #18 Georgia Tech
Kirk: GT Lee: UGA

#7 Florida State at #16 Florida
Kirk: FSU Lee: FSU

Chris: Guys, I think you are really short changing the Gators. I'm just saying they have probably the best QB in Kyler Thomas and a heck of an offense in the Swamp. Well, we know that our own Erin Andrews certainly would not agree with the two of you. Erin, we understand you have an injury report for the Bruins...


Erin: That's right. I do. And to answer your question. Go Gators! Sorry, had to get that out there. On a more serious note, the Bruins will be without DE Bryan Avery (91ovr) and DT Adam Evans (95ovr). Avery is still dealing with that sprained elbow and Evans with the torn shoulder. These guys are by far the Bruins' best defensive linemen and both will definitely not play. Oregon head coach Chip Kelly believes he can exploit that and he thinks his HB JP Patterson will have a big game on the ground today. Guys...

Chris: Thanks Erin. Well it is time to make the picks guys.

Kirk: I look at Oregon as a team that is ascending but is just not quite there yet. UCLA sophomore QB Bryan Quinn (90ovr) is one of the most talented young QBs in the nation but has struggle some this year. He has 21 touchdowns but has thrown 15 interceptions. But the Bruins just keep on winning. I just think the Bruins are a much more talented team and they put a beat-down on the Ducks today. (Crowd cheers)

Lee: Not so fast Kirk. Oregon has some explosive players too. UO QB Bryan Neal is quite an athlete and HB JP Patterson is really elusive and has great vision. Very tough to bring down and with UCLA's defensive line banged up...I did not even mention the speedster WR Tony Houston. So the Ducks definitely have the offense to compete. All three of those guys I just mentioned have to step up today. Houston especially could have a huge game against an inexperienced CB group of the Bruins. So that's why I'm going with...(Lee pulls out the Duck headgear and uses a duck quacker as the crowd boos) Not so fast! Forget about it! Not a chance! (Lee throws the Duck headgear down and puts on the Bruin headgear as the crowd cheers)

[Emac78]

It's Josh Freeman!!!

Emac, this dynasty is crazy. Keep up the good work.

Thanks man. Glad you enjoy it.

hey what hapen to Trent Rome?

Sorry, I wasn't sure you were still following. I'll put Rome in the next CAP update. He ended up being the top prospect and signed with Nebraska.

[Emac78]

Arizona (5-5) at #12 Oregon State (9-1)

Corvallis, OR - The race in the Pac-10 is heating up and the bowl picture is starting to take shape. Oregon State still has an outside chance at winning the conference but with undefeated UCLA sitting at the top, it does appear unlikely. However, the Bruins would be squaring off against the Ducks during the very same time slot. And UCLA will face USC the very next week so a BCS bowl is not out of the question for the Beavers. But that would all come to a screeching halt if they did not take care of business today. For the Arizona Wildcats, a win over the Beavers would make them bowl eligible. And do not forget that Steve Sarkisian's Wildcats nearly upset his old team, the USC Trojans earlier in the season. Plus, Arizona would look to avenge the beat-down they took last year against the Beavers.

A cold front has brought frigid cold conditions to the Willamette Valley as a thin sheet of ice blanketed Corvallis to give the field a tundra-like feel. It was 22 degrees at kickoff with a bit of a breeze and fog in the air. Would this be a bad omen for the Beavers? How would the extreme cold weather effect Arizona?

Arizona head coach Steve Sarkisian came out with a good gameplan as it was clear from the start that the Wildcats were going to be competitive. However, the opening drive would stall in the red zone when OSU DE Brandon Webb was able to sack Arz QB Brooks Peters on third down. As a result, the Wildcats scored on a 33-yard field goal to go on top 3-0 early.

On the other hand the Beavers looked unprepared as their opening possession went three-and-out when QB Justin Rust was sacked on third down. Possibly, the Beavers could already be looking ahead to what should be a huge Civil War next weekend. But Arizona's offense looked equally inept as they punted it right back. It was clear that the Wildcats were making it their top priority to stop Heisman contender HB Roy Nolen on the ground and they were having success. However, Rust would throw to Nolen out of the backfield who was able to sprint down the sideline and was off to the races where he was able to dive across the goal line for a 74-yard touchdown reception. Oregon State was now in front 7-3.

OSU HB Roy Nolen dives across the goal line on a 74-yard touchdown reception.

After another Arizona punt, the first quarter would come to an end. It may have been the cold, but whatever the reason was, both teams could not get anything done offensively in the second quarter. After five consecutive punts, OSU QB Justin Rust would be intercepted by Arz CB Matt O'Neill. But the Wildcats would not even be able get any points off of the turnover because of another three-and-out. A couple more punts later, the first half came to an end. It was still anybody's ball game.

The action would pick up in the second half. Oregon State head coach Mike Riley would decide to go for it on fourth-and-one at the Arz 35 yard-line. HB Roy Nolen got enough to move the chains. It looked like the Beavers were able to actually put some points on the scoreboard but then QB Justin Rust was picked off by Arz OLB Joe Johnson, trying to get it to HB Tim Taylor. Reser Stadium groaned as they watched their third-ranked scoring offense with still only seven points on the scoreboard. To make matters worse, the Wildcats put an impressive drive together as they converted five first downs and finally scored on a triple option to HB Allan Brown from seven yards out. However, the extra point was missed so the Wildcats only had a 9-7 lead.

Arz HB Allan Brown scores on a triple option for a 7-yard touchdown rush.

On the ensuing kickoff, OSU WR Brian Herring would be drilled by Arz FS Cedric Medley, thus coughing up the football which was scooped up by CB Dennis Stanley and returned for a Wildcat touchdown. Just like that, Arizona was now ahead 16-7.

OSU WR Brian Herring coughs up the football which is returned for a Wildcat touchdown.

Now it was officially looking like an upset. Then unbelievably, Herring would be attacked by a swarm of Arizona defenders on the ensuing kick return which he again fumbled the ball. And again it was recovered by the Wildcats but this time they were unable to score a touchdown. If Arizona had not already taken the momentum, they were now in full control of it as Reser grew eerily silent. Then the crowd was brought back to life to help its defense that was now in a very precarious position.

OSU WR Brian Herring fumbles again on the very next kick return which is recovered by Arizona.

The defense would be able to hold the Wildcats at the goal line. It was fourth-and-goal and Arizona head coach Steve Sarkisian elected to go for it. QB Brooks Peters dropped back and threw to TE Marlin Meyer in the flat for a 1-yard touchdown to silent Reser again. Though the OSU defense was able to prevent the Wildcats from scoring the 2-point attempt when Arz HB Allan Brown was stuffed in the backfield. Brown appeared to hurt his shoulder on the play. Viewers would later find out that he had strained his shoulder and would likely miss the next two weeks. But the damage was done. The Wildcats were now up 22-7.

Arz QB Brooks Peters finds TE Marlin Meyer for a 1-yard touchdown on fourth down.

The Beavers were really starting to feel the pressure that this one was getting away from them. After a sack on 2nd down that backed up Oregon State into another 3rd-and-long situation, OSU QB Justin Rust was able step up in the pocket and connect on a clutch pass to WR Brian Herring on a deep post to keep the drive alive to bring the third quarter to an end.

Time was running out for the Beavers and then the worst thing happened. Arizona OLB Joe Johnson came up with his 2nd interception of the game. Fortunately for Oregon State, TE Adam Banks was able to save a touchdown. This time, the OSU defense was able to make a goal line stand as the Wildcats settled for a 22-yard chipshot to make it 25-7 Arizona. The fourth quarter was already halfway over and some of the less faithful fans started heading for the exits.

It was at that moment that Rust would throw to HB Roy Nolen coming out of the backfield. Nolen made the catch and took it to the house for a 56-yard touchdown reception, giving Oregon State a heartbeat. Then HB Tim Taylor was able to push his way in to score on the 2-point attempt. But with only 3:32 remaining in the game, the Beavers were still down 25-15.

OSU HB Roy Nolen with his 2nd touchdown reception on this 56-yard touchdown.

The OSU defense was able to force a quick punt from the Wildcats so that the Beavers had the ball back at the Arz 40-yard line after a good kick return by WR Alex Whitehead. After a first down, QB Justin Rust threw deep to WR Brian Herring in single coverage where Herring was able to leap up, make the catch while keeping one foot in bounds near the corner of the end zone on a 28-yard touchdown connection. Reser Stadium erupted back to life as the Beavers were now down only 25-22 with 1:44 still remaing.

OSU WR Brian Herring comes down with a 28-yard touchdown reception in the corner of the end zone.

EA SPORTS World: NCAA Football 09 Video

The momentum was clearly on the side of Oregon State but time was running out. Mike Riley decided not to try the onside kick and decided to rely on his defense to get the ball back. The Beaver defense held on two Wildcat runs. So it was now 3rd-and-six at the Arz 29-yard line with 1:06 remaining and the Beavers were down to their last timeout. It would all come down to this play. QB Brooks Peters dropped back to pass and a ball in the flat was dropped by TE Marlin Meyer, thus stopping the clock with 1:02 on the clock and perserving one last timeout for Oregon State. After a punt, the Beavers would have the ball at the their own 46-yard line.

Rust would drop back and find TE Adam Banks over the middle which would become a 17-yard gain, putting the Beavers at the Arz 36-yard line with :42 remaining in the game. On the play, Banks left with a minor injury. OSU WR Bill Faaeteete would take over at TE and WR Marcus Sullivan would take over at the slot. On the next play, Rust threw to WR Alex Whitehead on a short crossing route which was probably not a great decision but nothing else was open. Whitehead made the catch and was whipped down from the facemask. The yellow flag fell to the ground. The referee announced, "Personal foul, face mask on the defense. Fifteen-yard penalty. First down." And Reser Stadium roared. Now the Beavers were at the Arz 18-yard line and were likely in range to kick a field goal.

However, Riley was not satisfied with just tying the game. Remember, the Beavers still have one timeout. Rust dropped back to pass, could not find anybody open, rolled out of the pocket to his left, was nearly sacked but was able to throw the ball away out of bounds. With :18 left in the game, Rust threw to WR Marcus Sullivan who was wide open on a short out route. Sullivan made the catch near the sideline. Reser Stadium roared as Sullivan raced forward where he was not brought down until he had crossed the gaol line. TOUCHDOWN BEAVERS! The rest of the offense met up with Sullivan in the end zone and celebrated a huge comeback. Reser was brought to pandamonium. Oregon State would make the shocking comeback in a wild finish as the Beavers pulled it out 29-25, setting up a huge Civil War next weekend.

OSU WR Marcus Sullivan crosses the goal line on a game-winning 18-yard touchdown reception.

EA SPORTS World: NCAA Football 09 Video

Arizona 25
QB Brooks Peters: 24-33, 177 yds, td
HB Allan Brown: 21 car, 82 yds, td
WR Matthew Harris: 8 rec, 72 yds
CB Matt O'Neill: 6 tkl, tfl, int, fmbrec

Oregon State 29
QB Justin Rust: 17-30, 321 yds, 4 td, 3 int
HB Roy Nolen: 14 car, 37 yds, 4 rec, 149 yds, 2 rec td
WR Brian Herring: 6 rec, 94 yds, td, 2 fl
DT Lee King: 8 tkl, 2 tfl, sk

[Emac78]

Week 13

Close Call
(2)UCLA Hangs On 36-33 Against (20)Oregon to Stay Undefeated

Oregon QB Bryan Neal's five total touchdowns were not enough to defeat UCLA.

Pasadena, CA - Since Clemson's 25-game winning streak came to an end against South Carolina earlier in the day, the Bruins knew they were playing for a chance to be ranked no. 1 in the nation. Oregon actually was the team to score first when QB Bryan Neal connected with WR Marc Stewart for a 12-yard touchdown. But UCLA quickly countered with a 5-yard touchdown by the freshman HB Clint Donaldson from five yards out but UCLA failed on the extra point attempt to give Oregon a 7-6 lead. The missed extra points would be a trend that continued throughout the game. The Ducks countered back with Neal connecting with the speedster WR Tony Houston for a 33-yard touchdown but they too missed an extra point. Then UCLA responded with QB Bryan Quinn hitting WR Robert Vincent for a 17-yard touchdown but the extra point was again missed to make it 13-12 Oregon to end a very entertaining first quarter.

It looked like Oregon was about to take a two possession lead as the Ducks were knocking at the door at the goal line but Neal threw a terrible pass that was picked off by UCLA CB Brian Thompson which was returned all the way back to the house to suddenly put UCLA in front 19-13. The pick-six seemed to have really turned the tide of the game as the Bruins would score a gain when HB Clint Donaldson scored his second touchdown on a goal line 1-yard touchdown run to put UCLA up 26-13. The Bruins would also get a last second field goal just before the end of the half to make it 29-13 at the break.

Then to start the second half, Oregon HB JP Patterson went down with a dislocated shoulder and would not return. However, UO QB Bryan Neal put the team on his shoulders and he was able to finish off a drive by running it in himself from one yard out, but the extra point was missed again to make it 29-19 UCLA. Just as it looked like the Ducks were getting back in the game, on the ensuing kickoff, UCLA WR Robert Vincent returned it all the way back for a 98-yard kick return for touchdown. UCLA now was well out in front 36-19.

But in the fourth quarter, UO QB Bryan Neal connected with WR Tony Houston who made a spectacular catch in the corner of the end zone, keeping his feet in bounds for a 10-yard touchdown to cut the lead to 36-26 with 4:22 remaining. Later, Neal would hit WR Marc Stewart for a 7-yard touchdown to make it 36-33 with only :50 remaining. It all came down to the onside kick but it was recovered by the Bruins. If the game had lasted a couple more minutes, the outcome might have been different but the Bruins held on.

Oregon 33
QB Bryan Neal: 38-55, 401 yds, 4 td, 2 int, rush td
HB Derek Woodard: 8 car, 41 yds
WR Tony Houston: 8 rec, 121 yds, 2 td
WR Marc Stewart: 10 rec, 113 yds, 2 td
FS Greg Dorsey: 10 tkl, defl

UCLA 36
QB Bryan Quinn: 19-32, 226 yds, td
HB Carl Merrick: 18 car, 84 yds, 4 rec, 52 yds
WR Robert Vincent: 5 rec, 45 yds, td, 98 yd krtd
CB Brian Thompson: 6 tkl, int, td

[b][size=+2]Games of the Week[/size][/b]

Miami (OH) 14
#3 Ohio 15

#9 Texas 43
Texas A&M 12

#15 Nebraska 35 (Garvella: 2 tkl, tfl, defl)
Colorado 17 (Rome: 3 tkl)

#14 Ohio State 31
#11 Michigan 14 (Fox: 2 car, 8 yds, rec, 7 yds)

#24 Georgia 44
#18 Georgia Tech 0

#1 Clemson 13 (25-game winning streak ended)
South Carolina 31

#23 Fresno State 30
Nevada 27

#7 Florida State 24
#16 Florida 33

#22 Virginia 36
Miami 31

[b]Arizona 25
#12 Oregon State 29[/b]

Arkansas 8
#6 LSU 51

#20 Oregon 33
#2 UCLA 36

[b][size=+2]BCS Rankings[/size][/b]

1 UCLA 11-0
2 Ohio 11-0
3 Penn State 10-1
4 Tennessee 10-1
5 USC 9-1
6 LSU 10-1
7 Texas 10-1
8 Notre Dame 9-1
[b]9 Oregon State 10-1[/b]
10 Clemson 10-1
11 Ohio State 10-2
16 Nebraska 9-2
17 Michigan 9-2
24 Oregon 8-3

[b][size=+2]Heisman Watch[/size][/b]

QB Kyler Thomas (Florida) -
[b]HB Roy Nolen (Oregon State) -[/b]
HB Mike Tellis (Ohio State) -
QB Antoine Espinosa (Texas) ^
QB Matt Thomas (Nebraska) v

[Emac78]

WR Chad West #13 94th
McCandless, PA
Committed: Oregon State

Oregon State received commitments from four more prospects after a wild game against Arizona this weekend. Among the prospects is four-star WR Chad West from McCandless, Pennsylvania. West ended up choosing Oregon State as his final decision over Notre Dame. The 6'5" 223 pound possession receiver will be a huge target for whoever is playing QB for the Beavers. West is also decent with the ball in his hands and could be the next big play receiver for OSU. Also, the future for OSU at defense continues to look bright with two more four-star commitments by DT Lance Russ from Westminster, California, and junior college transfer OLB Steven Fitzpatrick from Fridley, Minnesota. In addition, a local prospect, T Terrell Carlson from Dallas, Oregon has comminted with Oregon State to help add depth to the offensive line.


Commitments

DE Adam Bush *****: San Rafael, CA #2 12th
WR Chad West ****: McCandless, PA #13 94th
T Bryan Townsend ****: Downey, CA #12
G Taurean Redd ****: Santa Clara, CA #5 64th
DT Lance Russ ****: Westminster, CA #9
OLB Steven Fitzpatrick (JUCO) ****: Fridley, MN #20
T Terrell Carlson ***: Dallas, OR #52

[Emac78]

Game of the Week

#1 UCLA (11-0) at #6 USC (9-1)

Chris: Well, after last week's game we just got on a bus across town and headed on over here to the Coliseum for what should be one of the biggest games of the year. It's the Battle for the Victory Bell between UCLA and USC. This Saturday is a huge day for college football. We will get a very good picture of what the BCS picture should look like after today. If the Bruins are able to win today, they have pretty much clinched a spot in the National Championship. If USC wins, then the Trojans will be in a three-way tie with UCLA and Oregon State, assuming they beat Oregon in the Civil War today. If the Beavers were to fall and USC wins then the Trojans take over the top spot in the Pac-10, plus they still have a slim chance at finding their way into the BCS Championship.

Here is where it gets tricky. The surprise Cinderella team of the year, the undefeated no. 2 Ohio Bobcats will likely crash the BCS party if they can find a way to beat Wisconsin in Madison and then win the MAC championship. But if Ohio loses, then Penn State should move into that 2nd spot, assuming they beat Rice today. Now if UCLA and Ohio lose today, then the Tennessee-Nebraska game becomes important because a win by Tennessee would put them in the 1st or 2nd spot depending on what happens with the above games. If UCLA, Ohio, Penn State, and Tennessee lose, then USC would likely take over the top spot. Unlikely but not impossible. And don't forget we still have USC-Notre Dame next week too. So as you can see we have a big day of college football to get to...

Games of the Week

#4 Tennessee at #15 Nebraska
Kirk: Neb Lee: Tenn

#11 Oregon State at #24 Oregon

Chris: Yeah, that Tennessee-Nebraska game should be a war in Lincoln. Speaking of wars, there will be a Civil War going on in the state of Oregon today between the Beavers and the Ducks. Oregon State is looking to crash the BCS party but will need to win today. If UCLA wins then obviously they clinch the Pac-10 title, but Oregon State would finish 2nd in the conference and would be guaranteed at least the Holiday Bowl. But a win against Oregon could get them high enough in the rankings to make themselves eligible for a BCS spot. If USC wins, then there will be a three-way tie and it would be anybody's guess as to how the bowl situation winds up between UCLA, USC, and Oregon State. However, the Ducks will be looking to make that all null and void with a win against their in-state arch rivals. If Oregon wins then Oregon State could find itself in the Sun Bowl for the 4th time in a row. And don't forget, this one will be at Autzen. So who are you guys picking?

Kirk: I look for the Ducks to continue with the momentum and confidence they gained at the end of the UCLA game last week. I think Oregon QB Bryan Neal should continue right where he left off. The Beavers almost fell to Arizona last week so I think their margin of error is really slim against an explosive Duck team in Autzen. Ducks win decisively.

Lee: Kirk my friend. Not so fast! The Beavers have been led by their sensational HB Roy Nolen all year. He just seems to make big plays when they need them. Plus, I think that OSU secondary will cause problems for Neal. The Beavers win an extremely close game.

#2 Ohio at #12 Wisconsin
Kirk: Ohio Lee: Ohio

Chris: Seriously guys. You really think Ohio can beat Wisconsin? Well, I think you're both crazy. Well, that brings us to the Battle for the Victory Bell with so much on the line for the conference and nationally. The headgear has made its way here but first Erin Andrews has an injury report for UCLA DT Adam Evans.


Erin: That's right Chris. UCLA DT Adam Evans (95ovr) is still listed as questionable. You might remember that I reported last week on the very same player. He will be a game-time decision. I spoke to him earlier and he really wants to play today but he is confident that the Bruins can win without him. If Evans can go today, then UCLA will be back up to full strength on that defensive line.

Chris: Thanks Erin. Time to make your picks guys.

Kirk: I see this one coming down to defense and turnovers. Whoever makes the least amount of mistakes wins the game. I know. That's cliche but it's true. These teams are really very even. Now I know that UCLA QB Bryan Quinn has had trouble turning over the ball this year, but his team wins. And he did not turn over the ball at all last week against Oregon. I'm picking the sophomore QB for UCLA to get the win today and lead the Bruins to the national title. (Crowd boos)

Lee: Don't forget about USC QB Xavier Miller. Remember, it was only last year that this kid led the Trojans to the BCS title game. But the Trojans do seem to lack weapons on offense this year and you're right. These teams are very balanced. Miller might be able to take advantage of UCLA's one weakness, its secondary. But the Trojans' receivers don't scare anybody. But nobody on UCLA really scares me either. Frankly, I think both of these teams would have more than a couple losses if they played in the SEC or ACC...(Crowd boos) What!? It's true! Okay...so here's my pick...(Lee pulls out the Bruin headgear as the crowd boos in the background) Go Bruins!

[Emac78]

Civil War
#11 Oregon State (10-1) at #24 Oregon (8-3)

Eugene, OR - This is what college football is all about. An in-state rivalry between Oregon State and Oregon. The Civil War is always a huge game for the state of Oregon but today there was an added dimension that the Beavers could be playing for a chance at the Rose Bowl. Many of the Beaver fans in the crowd were holding roses in the hopes that Oregon State might finally make another appearance in the Rose Bowl for the first time since 1965. Of course a win today win not guarantee them a spot in the Rose Bowl or any other BCS bowl but would definitely give them a chance. A lot would depend on the outcome of the UCLA-USC game tonight. Regardless, the Ducks would love to dash Beaver dreams and see the Beavers head back to El Paso for thier fourth straight Sun Bowl. It has warmed up a bit since last week. The sun was out but it was still pretty chilly in Eugene for gametime.

The Ducks did not continue where they left off from last week against UCLA as they punted after an ugly three-and-out to start the game. Autzen Stadium was rocking as the Beaver offense took the field. Despite the noise, OSU QB Justin Rust was poised as he led his team on an 11-play drive to start the game, finished off with HB Roy Nolen scoring on a 9-yard touchdown scamper as the Beavers struck first blood, 7-0 OSU.

OSU HB Roy Nolen with an early 9-yard touchdown scamper.

Oregon did not look any better on their next possession, going three-and-out again. The Beavers were able to put the crowd noise to rest quite early as the Beavers again put a nice drive together. QB Justin Rust would connect with WR Brian Herring on a playaction pass over the middle which Herring ran in for a 15-yard touchdown to put the Beavers ahead 14-0.

OSU QB Justin Rust connects with WR Brian Herring for a 15-yard touchdown.

The Ducks continued to struggle on offense as they could not figure out what OSU defensive coordinator Mark Banker was throwing at them. UO QB Bryan Neal would be intercepted by OSU CB Matt McDaniel, giving the Beavers excellent field position. But as the 2nd quarter started OSU QB Justin Rust would leave with what looked like a minor back injury so QB Phil Rogers came in. It did not take long for Rogers to capitalize off the turnover when he hit WR Alex Whitehead on a post in the end zone from 11 yards out to make it a 21-0 lead for the Beavers.

OSU WR Alex Whitehead with an 11-yard touchdown reception.

This had been one of the most anticipated Civil War in years and the Beavers so far had turned it into a laugher. But the Ducks would finally get their first 1st down of the game, and then another, but would still be forced to punt. Maybe the Oregon offense was showing signs of life. Then OSU QB Justin Rust came back into the game and threw a high arching pass deep down the field to WR Brian Herring in single coverage. Just like he has done his entire career, Herring was able to come down with the 40-yard bomb.

OSU WR Brian Herring comes down with the 40-yard bomb.

Not long after, HB Roy Nolen was able to get to the outside and slip by the outstanding Duck FS Greg Dorsey for a 19-yard touchdown run. Now the Beavers were up 28-0.

OSU HB Roy Nolen gets by Duck FS Greg Dorsey for a 19-yard touchdown.

This was turning into a disaster for the Ducks on national television as an ESPN audience was witnessing the whipping that Oregon was taking. Oregon head coach Chip Kelly in his first Civil War as a head coach decided to try and gain some momentum by going for it on 4th-and-1 near midfield but HB JP Patterson was stuffed in the backfield as Autzen Stadium groaned in unison. The Beavers would take the opportunity to quickly move into the red zone where QB Justin Rust off of a playaction stretch rolled to the opposite side, could not find anybody open and decided to scramble. Then just as he was about to cross the line of scrimage, he changed his mind and threw across his body toward the middle of the field to WR Brian Herring in coverage. (Honestly, Emac78 thought that Rust had crossed the line of scrimage, and was trying to slide.) Herring leaped up to try and make the catch but the ball went right through his hands. However the ball fell none other than into mister all-world HB Roy Nolen's hands for a crazy 14-yard touchdown. The Beavers could do no wrong today as they had now taken a 35-0 lead before halftime.

OSU HB Roy Nolen catches the football in the end zone after it had gone through WR Brian Herring's hands.

EA SPORTS World: NCAA Football 09 Video

To further hurt the Ducks' confidence, Oregon had their best drive of the game end with a missed 24-yard field goal attempt by kicker Julian Bates just as time ran out. It has been a long time since Autzen Stadium was as quiet as it was at that point.

After the onslaught that ensued in the first half, the second half was tame as the Beavers played much more conservatively. But Oregon State still managed to tack on a field goal, 38-0 OSU. Later OSU HB Tim Taylor would score on a 3-yard touchdown scamper to make it 45-0 OSU. Unfortunately on the play, OSU TE Adam Banks tore his bicep and is likely to be out six weeks, likely missing the bowl game.

As the 4th quarter started, Oregon State put in all of their backups as the there was no way that the Ducks were coming back. What fans were still in the stadium started emptying out. In garbage time the Ducks finally got on the scoreboard when QB Byran Neal connected with WR Tony Houston for an 8-yard touchdown reception to make it 45-7 OSU. As the Beavers were trying to kill the clock with the running game, 3rd-string HB DJ Phillips was able weave through the defense, and score a late 36-yard touchdown as the Oregon State destroyed Oregon 52-7.

Oregon State 52
QB Justin Rust: 22-26, 256 yds, 2 td
HB Roy Nolen: 16 car, 104 yds, 2 td, rec td (Pac-10 offensive player of the week)
WR Brian Herring: 7 rec, 119 yds, td
CB Matt McDaniel: 3 tkl, int, defl

Oregon 7
QB Bryan Neal: 25-37, 239 yds, td, int
HB JP Patterson: 8 car, 31 yds, 9 rec, 111 yds
WR Tony Houston: 6 rec, 44 yds, td
FS Greg Dorsey: 8 tkl

[Emac78]

Week 14

(6)USC Knocks (1)UCLA From Ranks of the Unbeaten

UCLA HB Carl Merrick is taken down behind the line of scrimmage on 4th-and-1, thus ending any realistic chance to win the game for the Bruins.

Los Angeles, CA - Knowing that they were playing for a chance to be in the BCS championship, the Bruins appeared nervous from the outset, and the Coliseum did not help matters at all. UCLA was able to force USC to punt on the first possession of the game but Bruin WR Robert Vincent on the return was stripped of the ball by USC OLB Timothy Sanders, and the Trojans recovered. The turnover set up a 28-yard touchdown connection between USC QB Xavier Miller and WR Jason Cooper. Later, UCLA would turnover the ball again on a failed option attempt that fell to the turf for another USC fumble recovery. Again, Miller would hook up with WR Jason Cooper for a 24-yard touchdown as USC would take an early 14-3 lead by the end of the 1st quarter.

A one-yard rushing score by USC HB Marvin Davis would increase the Trojan lead to 21-3. Finally UCLA HB Clint Donaldson would vulture his own one-yard touchdown run off of HB Carl Merrick to make it 21-10. UCLA OLB Jamar Taylor would pick off USC QB Xavier Miller, but the Bruins would only get a 43-yard field goal attempt off the turnover which was kicked wide right. The Trojans would counter with their own missed 34-yard field goal to end the half.

UCLA true freshman HB Clint Donaldson would vulture another 4-yard touchdown off of Merrick to cut the USC lead to 21-17. It was still anybody's game going into the 4th quarter but USC OLB Jordan Martin would come up with a huge interception in the red zone to prevent the Bruins from having a scoring opportunity. However, with 5:22 left, USC QB Xavier Miller gave it right back to the Bruins as he threw an interception to UCLA sophomore FS Ricky Garrett. With 3:38, the Bruins were forced with a 4th-and-one in field goal territory, but UCLA head coach Rick Neuheisel decided to go for it. HB Carl Merrick was brought down behind the line of scrimmage, and the Trojans were able to run out the clock to preserve a 21-17 victory over no. 1 UCLA, turning the polls upside down.

UCLA 17
QB Bryan Quinn: 20-28, 177 yds, int
HB Carl Merrick: 35 car, 152 yds, 3 rec, 31 yds
WR Robert Vincent: 3 rec, 43 yds, fl
SS Nathan Robinson: 9 tkl, tfl

USC 21
QB Xavier Miller: 15-23, 161 yds, 2 td, 2 int
HB Marvin Davis: 35 car, 147 yds, td
WR Jason Cooper: 3 rec, 63 yds, 2 td
SS Jason Edwards: 15 tkl, ff, fmbrec (Pac-10 defensive player of the week)

[b][size=+2]Games of the Week[/size][/b]

#19 Missouri 17
Miami (OH) 21

#5 LSU 36
Tulane 14

Ole Miss 17
#17 Michigan 51 (Fox: 3 car, 18 yds, rec, 4 yds)

#4 Tennessee 41
#15 Nebraska 31 (Garvella: tkl)

[b]#11 Oregon State 52
#24 Oregon 7[/b]

#2 Ohio 28
#12 Wisconsin 35 (2OT)

#1 UCLA 17
#6 USC 21

[b][size=+2]BCS Rankings[/size][/b]

1 Penn State 11-1 (#2 coaches, #2 media)
2 Tennessee 11-1 (#1 coaches, #3 media)
3 USC 10-1 (#3 coaches, #1 media)
4 UCLA 11-1
5 LSU 11-1
6 Notre Dame 10-1
7 Texas 11-1
8 Ohio 11-1
[b]9 Oregon State 11-1[/b]
10 Wisconsin 10-2
12 Ohio State 10-2
16 Michigan 10-2
20 Nebraska 9-3

[b][size=+2]Heisman Watch[/size][/b]

[b]HB Roy Nolen (Oregon State) ^[/b]
QB Kyler Thomas (Florida) v
HB Mike Tellis (Ohio State) -
QB Antoine Espinosa (Texas) -
QB Matt Thomas (Nebraska) -

[Emac78]

This is a great looking dynasty. The photos are really good and I enjoy your game write-ups. Excellent work!

Thanks. It gives me an extra incentive to keep going when I receive responses like that. Now I just hope we get to the Rose Bowl. I'm crossing my fingers that we don't wind up in the Sun Bowl again.

[Emac78]

G Dustin Adams **** #15
Opportunity, WA
Committed: Oregon State

Four-star G Dustin Adams out of Opportunity, Washington has chose Oregon State over Fresno State. Pat Hill's Bulldogs have been targeting many of the same players as the Beavers and the two programs have built quite a recruiting rivalry this season. But after the destruction of the Ducks, Adams chose the Beavers. Adams is a very good run blocker and has good footwork while pass blocking. However, he does need to work on his strength as he has trouble with the power pass rushers. But he should add to what should be a very good future offensive line for Oregon State.

Commitments

DE Adam Bush *****: San Rafael, CA #2 12th
WR Chad West ****: McCandless, PA #13 94th
T Bryan Townsend ****: Downey, CA #12
G Taurean Redd ****: Santa Clara, CA #5 64th
G Dustin Adams ****: Opportunity, WA #15
DT Lance Russ ****: Westminster, CA #9
OLB Steven Fitzpatrick (JUCO) ****: Fridley, MN #20
T Terrell Carlson ***: Dallas, OR #52

[Emac78]

Game of the Week

#3 USC (10-1) at #8 Notre Dame (10-1)

Chris: Well, we're still trying to figure out the ramifications of USC defeating UCLA last week. Penn State now sits at the top of the BCS rankings, but there is clearly not a consensus no. 1 team in the polls. This is truly a BCS nightmare. But maybe the annual rivalry game between USC (crowd boos) and Notre Dame (crowd cheers) will help determine the BCS outcome. I think it would be safe to say that the winner of tonight's game should be put in a position to have a chance but with the polls so volatile, it is tough to tell. The SEC championship next week between Tennessee and LSU will likely be the deciding factor. Well, that's where we stand nationally.

But we have a game to preview guys. Notre Dame would likely be atop every poll with an undefeated record if it wasn't for the unlikely loss to Steve Spurrier's South Carolina Gamecocks. (crowd boos) Coincidentally, South Carolina also knocked off Clemson to end their 25-game winning streak. USC would also still be undefeated if it were not for the Beavers whose only loss came against UCLA, thus setting up a three-way tie in the Pac-10. But a win today would get the winner right back in the race. So guys what are you picking today?

Kirk: Notre Dame is one of the most talented teams in the nation. But they really have not wowed me this year. Besides for the debacle against Oregon State, USC has played solid all year. This team just seems to win these big games. I'm just going to go with my gut feeling today and pick the Trojans to win a close game today. (crowd boos)

Lee: The reason that the Trojans win is because of their outstanding defense, ranked best in the nation. But their offense concerns me. They lack explosive weapons like past seasons. Notre Dame on the other hand, has one of the top QBs in the nation in Joe Davis (91ovr) who has 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions, and thrown over 3,000 yards. That's not bad. And his top receiver is speed demon, WR Ethan Burns (90ovr, 99spd, 99acc). This kid could probably get a gold medal in track if he wanted. He is that fast, and has proven to be a good receiver. Davis and Charlie Weis should look his way more often in my opinion though. On top of a great offense, the Irish also have two fantastic CBs to go along with an excellent secondary. I'm sorry, Kirk. The Irish are just too talented. (Lee puts on a Leprechaun hat as the crowd goes wild)

[Emac78]

What a name for a receiver with 99 speed. "Burns".

This is a great read. I'm really enjoying your work!

Yeah. What an ideal name for a 99 speed and 99 acceleration receiver. I noticed that too. I'm really glad you are enjoying it.

nice job with recruiting, remember

recruiting wins championship.

or is that great line play?

any way, nice win over Oregon

Yep, that's why I'm doing both. Recruiting high level offensive linemen and defensive linemen. Oregon never showed up for the Civil War. I don't get why they hardly ever run the ball. In real life, they are one of the top rushing teams the last few years since they installed that spread offense.

[Emac78]

Week 15

(8)Notre Dame Takes Down Rival (3)USC 41-16

ND FB Willie Franklin sparks the Irish offense in the second half by vaulting into the end zone on a 21-yard touchdown reception.

South Bend, IN - The annual rivalry game started the way many would have thought in cold South Bend. Not as cold as a couple years ago, but still 30 degrees. There was not a whole lot of scoring in the first half. USC head coach Pete Carroll tried to control the tone of the game from the opening possession as the Trojans attempted a fake punt that was successful. However, USC only got a 26-yard field goal out of it. The Trojans continued a smash-mouth style football game as HB Jason Martinez leaped across the goal line for a one-yard touchdown, vulturing off of HB Marvin Davis who did all of the dirty work. But the Trojans missed the extra point so they were only up 9-0. After USC SS Jason Edwards picked off ND QB Joe Davis in the red zone, it looked like it would be all Trojans. But the Irish would tack on two field goals in the second quarter to make it anybody's game at halftime as USC was only ahead 9-6.

In the second half, the Irish offense awakened when future NFL FB Willie Franklin (94ovr) caught a pass in the flat and vaulted into the end zone for a 21-yard touchdown to give Notre Dame its first lead of the game, 13-9. Then USC would miss a 34-yard field goal attempt. Later, ND HB Tyrone Meade broke loose for a 39-yard touchdown run to put the Irish further ahead 20-9. But the Trojans would counter back with another one-yard touchdown scamper by HB Jason Martinez to make it 20-16 Notre Dame.

However the fourth quarter was all Fighting Irish as ND QB Joe Davis would hook up with TE Ulysses Lane for a two-yard touchdown, set up by a 20-yard reception from FB Willie Franklin, 27-16 ND. Just as the Trojans needed to get back into the game, ND CB Bo Grant picked off USC QB Xavier Miller and returned it all the way to the house, giving the Irish a commanding 34-16 lead. The game was all but over after that. Finally, Davis would connect with speed demon WR Ethan Burns on a 20-yard touchdown to put the final nail in the coffin. The Irish take down rival USC 41-16 and have done their part to put themselves in position for a chance at the National Championship.

USC 16
QB Xavier Miller: 28-40, 215 yds, int
HB Mavin Davis: 31 car, 112 yds
WR Jason Cooper: 7 rec, 81 yds
CB Matt Johnson: 5 tkl, tfl, int

Notre Dame 41
QB Joe Davis: 22-36, 292 yds, 3 td, 2 int
HB Tyrone Meade: 9 car, 81 yds, td
WR Ethan Burns: 8 rec, 93 yds, td
MLB Jonathan Thompson: 15 tkl, tfl

[b][size=+2]Game of the Week[/size][/b]

[b]#3 USC 16
#8 Notre Dame 41[/b]

[b][size=+2]BCS Rankings[/size][/b]

1 Penn State 11-1 (#2-coaches, #1-media)
2 Tennessee 11-1 (#1-coaches, #3-media)
3 Notre Dame 11-1 (#5-coaches, #2-media)
4 UCLA 11-1 (#4-coaches, #4-media)
5 LSU 11-1 (#3-coaches, #8-media)
6 Texas 11-1
7 Ohio 11-1
[b]8 Oregon State 11-1 (#12-coaches, #6-media)[/b]
9 USC 10-2
10 Wisconsin 10-2
12 Ohio State 10-2
16 Michigan 10-2
20 Nebraska 9-3

[b][size=+2]Heisman Watch[/size][/b]

[b]HB Roy Nolen (Oregon State) -[/b]
QB Kyler Thomas (Florida) -
HB Mike Tellis (Ohio State) -
QB Antoine Espinosa (Texas) -
QB Matt Thomas (Nebraska) -