Go Beavs: An Oregon State Dynasty

[Emac78]

[size=+3]Week 13[/size]

[size=+2]Close Call[/size]
[size=+1](2)UCLA Hangs On 36-33 Against (20)Oregon to Stay Undefeated[/size]

[size=-5]Oregon QB Bryan Neal's five total touchdowns were not enough to defeat UCLA.[/size]​

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]

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

[size=+1]#1 UCLA (11-0) at #6 USC (9-1)[/size]

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...

[size=+1]Games of the Week[/size]

#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]

[size=+3]Civil War[/size]
[size=+1]#11 Oregon State (10-1)

at

#24 Oregon (8-3)[/size]​

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.

[size=-5]OSU HB Roy Nolen with an early 9-yard touchdown scamper.[/size]​

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.

[size=-5]OSU QB Justin Rust connects with WR Brian Herring for a 15-yard touchdown.[/size]​

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.

[size=-5]OSU WR Alex Whitehead with an 11-yard touchdown reception.[/size]​

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.

[size=-5]OSU WR Brian Herring comes down with the 40-yard bomb.[/size]​

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.

[size=-5]OSU HB Roy Nolen gets by Duck FS Greg Dorsey for a 19-yard touchdown.[/size]​

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.

[size=-5]OSU HB Roy Nolen catches the football in the end zone after it had gone through WR Brian Herring's hands.[/size]

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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]

[size=+3]Week 14[/size]

[size=+2](6)USC Knocks (1)UCLA From Ranks of the Unbeaten[/size]

[size=-5]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.[/size]​

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]

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

[size=+1]#3 USC (10-1) at #8 Notre Dame (10-1)[/size]

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]

[size=+3]Week 15[/size]

[size=+1](8)Notre Dame Takes Down Rival (3)USC 41-16[/size]

[size=-5]ND FB Willie Franklin sparks the Irish offense in the second half by vaulting into the end zone on a 21-yard touchdown reception.[/size]​

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) -

 

[Emac78]

what r Roy Nolen's stats? good luck with the heisman

HB Roy Nolen: 255 car, 1532 yds, 6.0 avg, 24 td, 25 rec, 323 yds, 7 rec td

It looks like he is the favorite to win it so far, but Texas QB Antoine Espinosa still has the Big-12 Championship so you never know. By the way, some of Nolen's attributes are 97spd, 98acc, 99spm, 95agi, but he is only an 88ovr because of awareness, ball carrier vision and carrying I think.

 

[Emac78]

ATH Dustin Bower **** #14
Irvine, CA
Committed: Oregon State

Four-star ATH Dustin Bower from Irvine, California has chosen Oregon State over Oregon after finally making a decision a week after the Civil War. Bower will likely be a safety who has excellent agility. He is also good in man coverage and play recognition. Bower should be able to contribute to what is becoming one of the best defensive backfields in the nation.

Commitments

DE Adam Bush *****: San Rafael, CA #2 12th
ATH Dustin Bower ****: Irvine, CA #14
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]

[size=+2]Championship Weekend[/size]
[size=+2]Game of the Week[/size]

[size=+1]#3 LSU (11-1) vs #1 Tennessee (11-1)[/size]

Chris: Welcome to the SEC Championship in Atlanta, Georgia. (Crowd goes wild) It looks like this is going to be an ethusiastic crowd today. They're already going. Who can blame them? It doesn't get much bigger than this. A chance for a spot in the national title. Or is it? This is a BCS nightmare. Each poll has its own no. 1 team, but I think we can all assume that Penn State has already guaranteed itself a spot in the championship game in Pasadena right? Tennessee is no. 2 in the BCS and a win today would have to likely get them to the national title game. But a win for LSU will really put it up for grabs as to who the voters like. In that case, either, Notre Dame, UCLA, LSU, or maybe even Texas gets in. It really is up in the air, but this huge matchup in Atlanta will likely be the deciding factor.

Of course this is Championship Weekend so we'll be talking about the ACC Championship and the Big-12 Championship. Also, if Ohio is able to win the MAC championship today, they should be in a BCS bowl. But, really it is all about the SEC Championship as these other ones just don't have the national impact that this one has. So who's headgear will Lee choose today? Stay tuned in to find out.

[size=+1]ACC Championship[/size]

#19 Virginia vs #11 Clemson
Kirk: Clem Lee: Clem

[size=+1]Big-12 Championship[/size]

#6 Texas vs Kansas
Kirk: Tex Lee: Tex​

Chris: Well, it certainly has been quite a wild ride the last few weeks especially at the top of the polls. Nobody could have guessed that the likes of Tennessee, LSU, and Penn State would be vying for a national championship but that is exactly the case. Tennessee started off the season with an overtime loss to the SEC favorite Gators, but has not lost since. LSU's only loss came at the hands of Tennessee in Knoxville, but can the Vols beat the Bayou Bengals on a neutral field. We're about to find out. Kirk, Lee, who are you picking today?

Kirk: Let me first say that in my opinion this is the game of the year. The winner of the SEC Championship should play for the national title. (Crowd cheers) Most people are picking LSU today because they seem to be more familiar with the Tigers as opposed to the Volunteers who have kind of snuck up on everybody. But I think LSU QB Lance Porter (92ovr) and HB Scott Richardson (91ovr) will be too much for Tennessee to handle today. And with the defense being led by OLB Billy Harris (96ovr), I look for LSU to win an extremely close game.

Lee: You're right Kirk. This one will be very close. Much closer than the experts think. Everybody is so high on LSU but the Vols are good. Don't forget Tennessee already beat LSU. Tennessee is led by an outstanding LT Robert Minocchi (96ovr) who was previously a no. 1 rated recruit. Minocchi really helps QB Scott Harvey (96ovr) and HB Chad Sims (90ovr). Harvey has thrown for a total of 36 touchdowns and Sims has run for over 1600 yards. So the Vols have the offense. Plus, their defensive line is one of the best and they might have one of the best corner duos in the nation. But can they stop LSU's 2nd best rush offense? This was a tough one...(Lee pulls out the Tiger headgear to a raucous mixed reaction of cheers and boos) Go Tigers! Go LSU!

 

[Emac78]

Hope your guy wins the Heisman. I was robbed by a Texas QB in a Michigan chise I did on IGN, purely because he had one extra game. I got him back though, won the Heisman the next year

Nice. Espinosa would have to have a huge game to leap ahead that far I would think. Although he is playing Kansas, a team that has no business playing for the Big-12 Title so I guess it is possible.

 

[Emac78]

[size=+3]Championship Weekend[/size]

[size=+1](1)Tennessee Wins Close One in Rematch Against (3)LSU 38-35[/size]

[size=-5]Vol HB Chad Sims takes a 74-yard run to the house to close the deal.[/size]​

Atlanta, GA - The SEC Championship felt like the National Championship because of the intensity that was displayed on the field by both teams. LSU struck blood first when HB Scott Richardson received the pitch from QB Lance Porter on an option and turned the corner for a 31-yard touchdown, 7-0 LSU. The Volunteer offense struggled at first but a pick-six by Tennessee OLB Tim Ware off of Porter would tie it up 7-7.

Richardson would put the Tigers on the board again on a four-yard touchdown scamper in the 2nd quarter, 14-7 LSU. But Vol QB Scott Harvey would connect with HB Chad Sims where the tailback would run over the safety and house it for a 70-yard touchdown reception, tying up the game 14-14. However, the Tigers would counter with an impressive drive led by Porter who would connect with his TE on a four-yard touchdown to regain the lead for LSU, 21-14. The game would turn when LSU HB Scott Richardson was hit low by Vol CB Jelani McGrew,causing him to upend and fumble the ball which Tennessee quickly recovered. McGrew would have a whale of a game. The very next play, Vol HB Chad Sims got the toss to the left and scored a 22-yard touchdown run to tie the game back up 21-21. LSU would attempt a 55-yard field goal in the closing seconds but it was hooked left to preserve a tie at halftime.

Offense came at a premium in the 3rd quarter as the only score came when Vol QB Scott Harvey hit his TE on a one-yard touchdown to give Tennessee its first lead of the game, 28-21.

Then in the 4th quarter, the Volunteers went ahead 31-21 with a 48-yard field goal. But the play that probably did the Tigers in was when Vol HB Chad Sims broke loose for a 74-yard touchdown run to make it 38-21 Tennessee. Just when it looked like LSU was dead in the water, QB Lance Porter put together a great drive, hitting his TE for a touchdown to make it 38-28 Tennessee. Then with 1:31 remaining the Tigers recovered on the onside kick. And not long after, Porter would connect with WR Roy Jones in the end zone for a five-yard touchdown to make it a three-point game with :47 left in the game, 38-35 Tennessee. It would all come down to the onside kick but this time the Volunteers recovered. Tennesse would run the clock out to claim the SEC title and likely a ticket to Pasadena for the BCS National Championship.

LSU 35
QB Lance Porter: 36-51, 343 yds, 3 td, int
HB Scott Richardson: 22 car, 81 yds, 2 td, fl
WR Tim Smith: 9 rec, 93 yds
SS Daniel Young: 5 tkl, 2 tfl, int

Tennessee 38
QB Scott Harvey: 19-32, 228 yds, 2 td, int
HB Chad Sims: 25 car, 185 yds, 2 td, 4 rec, 95 yds, rec td
TE Jamie Mayo: 3 rec, 49 yds
CB Jelani McGrew: 19 tkl, 2 defl, ff

[b][size=+2]Championship Weekend[/size][/b]

[b]ACC[/b]
#19 Virginia 14
#11 Clemson 28

[b]SEC[/b]
#3 LSU 35
#1 Tennessee 38

[b]Conference USA[/b]
Tulane 35
Southern Miss 32

[b]Big-12[/b]
#6 Texas 38
Kansas 8

[b]MAC[/b]
Western Michigan 20
#7 Ohio 21

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

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

 

[Emac78]

[size=+3]BCS Selections[/size]

[size=+1]#10 Oregon State (11-1) vs #12 Ohio State (10-2)[/size]

[size=+1]#3 Notre Dame (11-1) vs #4 UCLA (11-1)[/size]

[size=+1]#5 Texas (12-1) vs #6 Ohio (12-1)[/size]

[size=+1]#11 Clemson (12-1) vs #24 Pittsburgh (10-2)[/size]

[size=+2]BCS National Championship-Pasadena, CA[/size]

[size=+1]#2 Tennessee (12-1) vs #1 Penn State (11-1)[/size]​

 

[Emac78]

[size=+2]Rose Bowl[/size]

[size=+1]#12 Ohio State (10-2) vs #10 Oregon State (11-1)[/size]​

After one of the greatest seasons in Oregon State history, the Beavers will finally play in the Rose Bowl. The last time Oregon State played in the Rose Bowl was in 1965 so it has been a long time coming. Expect Beaver Nation to show up in full force. It is still uncertain how the Pac-10 decided on Oregon State as the conference champions. There was a three-way tie between UCLA, USC, and Oregon State for first place. Each had one loss. Oregon State lost to UCLA. UCLA lost to USC. And USC lost to Oregon State. But the Beavers were chosen as the Pac-10 champions and they will take it any way they can get it. However, their reward is that they will play perennial Big Ten powerhouse Ohio State who is no stranger to Pasadena. The Buckeye defense will be by far and away the toughest the Beavers have faced all season. Including UCLA and USC. So do not expect the no. 1 scoring offense of the Beavers to put up a bunch of points on the Buckeyes. Many of the pundits are expecting Ohio State to make a bloodbath out of the Beavers but it will likely be one of the more competitive bowls this year.

[center][img]http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y44/Jeremy7679/Logos/NCAA/pac_10.png[/img]

1) #10 [b]Oregon State[/b] 11-1, 8-1 (Rose Bowl vs #12 Ohio State)
2) #7 [b]USC[/b] 10-2, 8-1 (Holiday Bowl vs Kansas)
3) #4 [b]UCLA[/b] 11-1, 8-1 (Sugar Bowl vs #3 Notre Dame)
4) [b]Oregon[/b] 8-4, 5-4 (Sun Bowl vs West Virginia)
5) [b]Cal[/b] 7-5, 5-4 (Las Vegas Bowl vs #18 TCU)
6) [b]Washington[/b] 6-6, 3-6 (Armed Forces Bowl vs Utah)
7) [b]Washington State[/b] 5-7, 3-6
8) [b]Arizona State[/b] 5-7, 2-7
9) [b]Arizona[/b] 5-7, 2-7
10) [b]Stanford[/b] 2-10, 1-8[/center]

 

[goDawgs1433]

Good lord, the presentation and detail with this is just ridiculous. It's impressive you've been able to stay with OSU so long, I had one with the Beavs over on IGN but I lost interest fairly quick.

Awesome work, Emac.

 

[Emac78]

[size=+3]Heisman Trophy Presentation[/size]

And the Heisman goes to...

HB Roy Nolen SR(RS) (Oregon State) 1504 votes

255 car, 1532 yds, 24 td, 25 rec, 323 yds, 7 rec td

[size=+1]Runner Ups[/size]

QB Kyler Thomas SR(RS) (Florida) 1032 votes
293-408, 3711 yds, 40 td, 15 int, 141 car, 546 yds, 8 rush td

QB Antoine Espinosa SR (Texas) 968 votes
260-383, 36 td, 10 int, 100 car, 423 yds, 4 rush td

HB Mike Tellis SR (Ohio State) 739 votes
214 car, 1362 yds, 14 td, 37 rec, 721 yds, 4 rec td, krtd

QB Matt Thomas (Nebraska) 292 votes
246-361, 3113 yds, 34 td, 5 int, 88 car, 309 yds, 9 rush td

New York, NY - The one-year sensation from Oregon State, HB Roy Nolen received the Heisman Trophy after a season that included one highlight moment after another to help lead the Beavers to the Rose Bowl for the first time since 1965. Nolen becomes the second Beaver to receive the prestigious award, joining QB Terry Baker who won the award in 1962. Nolen's speed and agility took the college football world by surprise as he really came out of nowhere. But after a huge game against USC on national television, Nolen was starting to become a household name. It really did not come as any surprise when his name was announced as the winner of the coveted trophy as he had already received the Maxwell and Doak Walker awards earlier in the week. The Heisman gives Nolen the Triple Crown of sorts for trophies a tailback could receive.

The runner ups really never posed any threat to Nolen but it should not take away from what were some tremendous seasons for Florida QB Kyler Thomas, Texas QB Antoine Espinosa, and Nebraska QB Matt Thomas. Ohio State HB Mike Tellis also had a great year, but the fact that Oregon State suddenly became the highest scoring offense in the nation largely has to be attributed to Nolen's 24 rushing touchdowns and seven receiving touchdowns. However, the top two tailbacks will face each other in this year's Rose Bowl and many are expecting Tellis to get the better of Nolen in that matchup. But today was all about Roy Nolen's accomplishments. What a year it was for the one-year sensation from Oregon State.

 

[Emac78]

:bawling:

I know...it's tough to see our teams face off. Oh well, OSU wins either way.

Good lord, the presentation and detail with this is just ridiculous. It's impressive you've been able to stay with OSU so long, I had one with the Beavs over on IGN but I lost interest fairly quick.

Awesome work, Emac.

Thanks goDawgs! I'm kind of surprised I have not lost interest too but I'm still going.