Florida State's sports information department released an article on the Noles defense so far in practice....

FSU's veteran offensive line and arsenal of skilled-position players has made for some long preseason practices for a defense that has at least a dozen freshmen or sophomores with limited experience running with the first- and second-team units.

"We've tried to tell our freshmen from day one that we're not going to coach them like they're freshmen ... like you have a redshirt year," Andrews said. "We can't do that. We've got to get you ready to play.

"We've still got some maturing we've got to do. And we've got some juniors and seniors that have got to mature, too."

So while Andrews is trying to teach a host of players expected to see their first significant action, he's also trying to evaluate personnel needed to fill at least five new spots in the starting lineup, not to mention implement scheme and game plan changes.

"We're not as fundamentally sound as we need to be," Andrews said. "We'll make a play or two and you couldn't ask for more. Then, all of a sudden, you look around there and nobody's feet are moving toward the line of scrimmage on a running play. We don't play a read-and-react defense. We play attack and we don't have 11 people doing that every time the ball's snapped right now."

While Andrews acknowledges the Seminoles have "some time left" to pull things together before the Sept. 7 opener against Miami, he's pushing every button to hasten the pace of development. As a result, the first-team defense "earned" the opportunity to get additional repetitions Thursday after the first- and second-team offense moved the ball efficiently coming off the goal line, and in its 3-minute offense drill.

"The offense has not come to us a single time and said, 'You all are too tough on us. You're playing too hard,'" Andrews said. "Until we start doing that, we're not playing tough enough.

One of the most popular articles last week here on the site was, “Bowden and Fisher … Splitskies?” It was based around a Bobby Bowden quote at ACC Media Day, where the patriarch of FSU football playfully suggests that come January 2011, he will continue to coach and then promptly split Jimbo’s buyout package down the middle. It was an interesting brief blog entry with an entertaining anecdote. It also showed us a few things. One, that Bobby still has his endearing sense of humor and isn’t taking the situation too seriously, and two, that Bobby is beginning to fully grasp the situation and realizes that his time as head coach of the university is limited. I may be stretching a bit and reading between lines that don’t exist, but I’m hoping.

Anyway, as popular as the ‘Splitskies” story and quote were, the Bowden line from media day that I enjoyed the most, and find of paramount importance, was his stance on scholarships and old victories. Bowden made it clear to the media in attendance that he thought he deserved to keep his wins, but not at the cost of additional lost scholarships, which could be a possible penalty if FSU wins it’s appeal. Until now that hadn’t be vocalized. The masses were aware that Bowden passionately wanted his vacated wins back in order to chase Joe Paterno, but the NCAA threatened additional penalties would go into effect if wins were reinstated. This led many to believe that Bowden wanted his wins returned at any cost, including scholarships. It gave off the aura that the “aww shucks” Bowden was becoming a me-first, larger-than-the-program diva.

It seemed like an off the wall assumption, considering the Bobby Bowden sports fans have known for years, but what were fans suppose to think? Bobby wants wins + wins could mean fewer scholarships = Bobby will sell off the future of the program to gloat about the past.

As the saying goes, “you know what happens when you assume?”

Many media outlets and personalities, including myself, decided to label one of the true good guys in college football as a selfish individual who cared more for personal glory than team advancement. We we’re wrong and I’m glad.

Bobby went on to tell reporters, “I don’t want my kids to suffer one game so that I can get my [wins] back. The NCAA doesn’t have to do that.”

Cynics will imply that Bowden had no choice but to say these things, that it’s a case of public relations 101. They may even overanalyze the quote by pointing out Bobby says he didn’t want “ (his) kids to suffer,” mentioning nothing about Jimbo’s. They’d be paranoid and mistaken. While many people attempt to shield Bowden and protect him like Nike reps at a Lebron James basketball camp, when in open and candid situations, Bowden has been just that. He hasn’t been a Saban or Belichick like spin doctor his entire career, why start now?

In a perfect world (for Seminole fans) Bobby would maintain his victories and the program would keep it’s scholarships. Here in reality it looks like it may be one or the other, although there are other ways the NCAA could possibly punish the university. If forced to choose, Bobby picked the scholarships. He gets it. He fully comprehends that while he built the program, it’s larger than him. Makes me wish the world were perfect.

It was a long week and an even longer weekend. It was my roommate’s birthday on Friday, and to say the least, I didn’t follow the Lendale White diet program. I awoke Saturday, my head replaced by one of those mid 1990s water bomb “soaker splash balls”, only to have my phone blow up like I’m Ari in “Entourage” and Vince gave someone an unfriendly STD. It was moving day in Tallahassee, and though I’m no longer in college, I live in a college town and own a truck, which is much worse. People who I thought were friends had me moving couches and beds down three flights of stairs in the rain, all the while my dome was pulsing. Fun times. Enough with the whining though, you don’t come here for that, you come for this:

The Week in Review 7/27- 8/02

FSU News

Richard Goodman
 The aggravated battery charge stemming from the notorious on-campus brawl has been dropped and the redshirt senior has been reinstated to the team. Obviously, this is a huge victory for Goodman the person. I find life tends to be easier when not facing felony charges. This however, is also a great scene of events for Goodman the athlete and the Seminole football team. At the beginning of spring, Goodman sat atop the wide receiver depth chart. His return adds another weapon to the Seminole’s offense and bolsters a wide receiving core in need of senior leadership. He missed most of spring, but is as well acquainted with the playbook as anybody.

Commits
The Noles landed two more verbal commitments this week, boosting the number of 2010 commits up to 12; however Merrill Noel’s de-commit quickly dropped that number back to 11.Tank Sessions and Telvin Smith are the latest to declare their desire to play for FSU. Sessions is a 6-5 230 pound athlete and should see time at FB/TE. His abilities and vast skill set make losing out on Ohio TE Dan Schneider exceedingly less painful. Smith is a long and lean linebacker, who could be a defensive playmaker if he puts on some size. I love the current rate the Noles are brining in commits, and I’ve been impressed with the quality of players.

Marcus Lattimore’s Top 5
All writers have an old column, article or editorial floating around that makes them look like a complete moron. Most of us have many. Well, add another to my “Zach doesn’t know squat” pile.

This weekend Marcus Lattimore, one of the best running back recruits in the nation, cut his list down to five and FSU was nowhere to be seen. You may recall a column of mine from my first week on the site titled, “Lattimore Not a Nole…Yet,” hopefully you don’t. If you missed out on it, you can find it in the blog archives, but the title essentially sums it up.  I was certain FSU would land Lattimore. Did I have a real reason, other than thinking his number one school, Auburn, was lackluster? No, I just had a feeling. Obviously, my gut was mistaken. It’s a good thing FSU is stout with skill on the ground and doesn’t really need Lattimore; I would have felt like I jinxed the team. I wouldn’t have, I just like to pretend I have an impact on the program. (Another example of this is my belief that game day PS3 battles have a hand in deciding real life winners.)

ACC Media Day
The preseason ACC predictions were released at ACC Media Day this past week, and according to the votes FSU should win the Atlantic Division. Though the Noles received the majority (56 out of 87 votes) it appears as if the Noles will have their work cut out for them, as four of the six teams in the division received first place votes.  

The Coastal division seems to be more top heavy as VT pulled in 78 of the 87 first place votes, leaving nine for GT.  VT also was predicted to come out as ACC Champion.  And GT’s Jonathan Dwyer was elected preseason ACC Player of the year.

It’s hard to argue against many of the voter’s decisions. FSU SHOULD win the Atlantic, Virginia Tech SHOULD win the Coastal and Jonathan Dwyer SHOULD be ACC player of the Year. However things don’t always turn out as they should, and the ACC is so evenly matched, just about anything could happen. If NC State and Miami meet in the ACC Championship and Riley Skinner wins ACC P.O.Y. I wouldn’t be amazed. Slightly shocked, no doubt upset over the lack of FSU presence, but certainly not amazed.


NFL
Brett Favre
 First off, I’m a Favre guy. Lets get that out there. He’s a very polarizing character, but I’m on his side almost to John Madden-esque lengths. He cracks my top three favorite players of all time. Like many of you, I tire of the off-season circus- though much of it isn’t his fault, but it’s my belief that the NFL is always better with Brett Favre than without. I understand that statement caused some readers to vomit on their laptops, but it’s just how I feel.  That being said, if I was a Vikings fan, I’d hate the dude. Not, “he was a despised division rival for many years” hate, but all out “we we’re Superbowl bound and now we might not make the playoffs” hate. Because of Four’s waffling and procrastinating, the Vikes are stuck with the shaken and insecure duo of Tavaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels. You can’t blame Brad Childress for trying to lure Favre. Even if he’s at 58 percent and his elbow tendons have been replaced with string cheese, Brett Favre is always better than T-Jack or Sage “please put a clipboard in my hand” Rosenfels.

I have a feeling this wont be the last time Favre’s name gets thrown around for a QB job. I could see some team, even two years down the line, looking at the Ole Gunslinger and wondering if he has another run. And, I’m more than okay with that, but like I said, I’m not a Vikings fan.

Lendale White Light  
White, one half of the Tennessee Titan’s impressive running combination, has lost more than 30 pounds this off-season and is reportedly at his slimmest weight since high school. According to SI.com, the former USC star dropped the weight by nixing the tequila from his diet. White said, “ It wasn’t a lot of major diet changes. (It was) watching what I drink. I was a big Patron consumer. … That’s what it was. I was drinking a lot, drank a lot of alcohol. I cut that out of my diet all the way. I don’t drink at all.”

As a tequila advocate, I can’t blame the man for being a “big Patron consumer.” If my paychecks were NFL sized, I’d drink it like water too. But seriously Lendale, how much Tequila are you consuming if you dropped more than 30 pounds just by kicking it out of your diet? What did you do between games, join the Parrot Heads and follow Buffet on tour? I was a communications and journalism major, so numbers and science aren’t my forte, but if someone out there can calculate how much tequila a pro athlete would have to drink to add 30 pounds, I’d really appreciate it.

MLB

Manny and Ortiz- (Children quit reading, spoiler alert)
If anyone was shocked by the recent steroid revelations, I have some news that may rock you to the core: Santa Clause isn’t real; the Easter Bunny never existed; Pro Wrestling is staged; and Megan Fox is hot.
    
And The Winner for Best Response to P.E.D.’s Goes To…
Cincinnati Reds SP Bronson Arroyo, a member of the 2004 Red Sox World Series team, has handled steroid allegations better than anyone else so far. He hasn’t been linked to the list of 104 major league ballplayers who tested positive for P.E.D.’s in 2003, but instead of waiting, thinking they’ll catch everybody else and never get him, Arroyo hopped out in front and took a somewhat refreshing perspective (at least from a players angle). Arroyo told the Boston Herald, that back in 2003 he was taking androstenedione and amphetamines, adding, “ Before 2004, none of us paid any attention to anything we took. Now they don’t want us to take anything unless it’s approved. But back then, who knows what was in stuff?”
 
If Big Mac, Barry and the Rocket had all been this candid and honest, fans would have forgiven their sins long ago.

    
Canseco The Comedian
 Jose said he knew all along that Ortiz and Ramirez tested positive back in 2003. Canseco told ESPN, “when you tell me something I didn’t already know, I’ll be surprised.” He also went on to say “ I’ll tell you this, Major League Baseball is going to have a big, big problem on their hands when they find out they have a Hall of Famer who’s used.”  

Jose is right, once the media finds out who the H.O.F. player is who’s used, all of Bud Selig’s inner organs will erupt, and the writers will either go mad and deny all access to the Hall, or they’ll vote in everyone from the “steroid era.” And you know without a doubt someone in the Hall used P.E.D.’s. Canseco has been right every step of the way. Sure, he’s an assclown who wears mesh shirts and now makes money getting his clocked clean by 7-2 Asian fighters, but he knows what he’s talking about. To Canseco, it’s all a joke. He knows the punch line; he’s been laughing the whole time waiting for the public to catch on.

Who’s your money on, Ricky or Cal?     

Trade Deadline
The deadline passed, and in typical baseball style, the rich got richer. The Red Sox added Victor Martinez; The Phillies added last years Cy Young award winner Cliff Lee; the Cards got Matt Holliday; the Tigers added Jared Washburn; and the White Sox snagged Jake Peavy. I’m looking forward to watching the AL Central the rest of the way, especially if Peavy can get in uniform sooner than later. The Tigers, Twins and White Sox may come down to the last week of the season.

NBA
Lamar Odon resigned with the defending champion L.A. Lakers this past week, agreeing to terms on a four-year deal worth up to $33 million with $27 million guaranteed. Bryant, Artest, Odom and Gasol; if Andrew Bynum was an athlete and not just seven feet tall, they’d be unstoppable. They’re the favorites to win the title hands down, but they wont come within earshot of the 1995 Bulls 72-10 record or the 71-72 Lakers 33 in a row.

Finally finished.  Here are the special teams rankings for the ACC.

1.Miami- Junior kicker Matt Bosher was second-team All-ACC in 2008 behind Seminole stud Graham Gano. With Gano gone, he should be the best kicker in the conference. He was 18-20 last season and 2-3 from 50+. He also handles punting duties, pinning opponents inside their redzone 19 times, while averaging 40.3 yards per punt. The return game is also in good hands, as Travis Benjamin is back to break more ankles. As a freshman in 2008, he led the ACC in average yards per punt return and also owned the longest return in the conference.

2.Mary- The Terps return All-ACC punter Travis Baltz, who lead the conference in punt average at 41.1 yards per and also managed to pin foes inside their 20, 24 times. They too bring back a record –setting kick returnee in Torrey Smith, who as a freshman piled up 1,089 return yards, including one TD.  At kicker however, the turtle face a dilemma. They lost three-year starter Obi Egekze and now face a battle between sophomores Nick Wallace and Mike Barbour, and senior kick-off specialist David May. Soph Tim Downs will replace four-year long snapper Andrew Schmitt.  

3.VT- The Hokies have some work to do with the loss of place kicker Dustin Keys and punt return extraordinaire “Macho” Harris.  However, there is some stability. Brent Bowden will start at punter for the third consecutive season. He averaged 40.4 yards a punt last year, and has 52 punts inside the opponent’s red-zone for his career. Justin Meyer handled kick-off duties as a true freshman and will do so again this season. He has a powerful leg, but accuracy seems to be an issue, so redshirt senior Matt Waldron will get the nod at place kicker. Redshirt freshman Ryan Williams will attempt to replace Macho in the punt return game, while sophomore Dyrell Roberts is back to return kicks.  Cris Hill, Patrick Terry, Tony Gregory and Brandon Dillard could all see time at kick or punt returner at some point during the season.

4. NCSU-The Pack bring back junior kicker Josh Czajkowski and return specialist T.J. Graham. Czajkowski hit 16 of 19 field goals in 2008, while as a freshman Graham set a NC State record for return yards with 1,028. Jeff Ruiz will replace punter Bradley Pierson.

5. CLEM- On the return side of things, Clemson has nothing to fear. They own perhaps the fastest and fiercest 1-2 punch in the NCAA. C.J. Spiller and Jacoby Ford are highlights waiting to happen. The kicking side isn’t so pretty. The Tigers lost punter Jimmy Maners and place kicker Mark Bucholz. Sophomore Dawson Zimmerman saw limited action last year and is set to take over punting responsibilities. Redshirt freshman Spencer Benton is expected to start the season at kicker, but he may be challenged by junior Richard Jackson.

6.BC- The Eagles bring back everyone from 2008. Kicker Steve Aponavicius is back for his senior season, as well as both punters, Ryan and Billy Flutie. Quigley is the main punter, while Flutie pins opponents in their red zones. The Eagles return game needs to improve from last year, it ranked 11th in the ACC.

7. GT- Like last season, the punting and kicking duties are junior Scott Blair’s to lose. He held down both positions fairly well in 2008, but he better improve if he expects to keep either one of his jobs. The Jackets ranked 11th in the ACC in 2008 in punting and field goal accuracy; never a good thing for a kicker. Blair could get supplanted at either position by redshirt sophomore Chandler Anderson if he doesn’t step his game up. The returning Jerrard Tarrant is expected to start at punt returner, while running back Roddy Jones is set to return kicks

8. DUKE- The Blue Devils return both kicker Nick Maggio and punter Kevin Jones. With loads of opportunities, Jones proved himself a solid punter, pinning opponents inside their red-zone a conference leading 27 times. Maggio hit 11 field goals on 14 attempts. Their return game could use work.

9.FSU- Special teams guru Graham Gano is gone. He was arguably the best player on the team the past two seasons. The Lou Groza award winner will attempt to be replaced by sophomores James Esco and Nathan O’Jibway, or the nations best kicking recruit from a year ago, Dustin Hopkins. Sophomore Shaun Powell, who started as punter through the first seven games of last season, will take over the position once again. As far as the return game is concerned, the Noles are loaded with athletes, but Burt Reed should start.

10.UNC- Punter Terrence Brown graduated and kick-off specialist Jay Wooten decided to transfer, leaving UNC with a bit of catching up to do in the special teams department. Walk-on sophomore Grant Shallock is the only punter on the roster and handled the duties during the spring. Casey Barth was the primary field goal kicker in 2008, but walk on Reid Phillips could get in the mix somewhere. Trace Jones is expected to start at punt return, while Greg Little is one of many players who could see time on kick off returns.

11.WF-Senior kicker/punter Sam Swank was injured for a large part of last season and is obviously now gone from team. The Deacs replacement Shane Powell filled in adequately a year ago, making 7-12 field goal attempts and averaging 39.2 yards per punt, nailing opponents in the red-zone 19 times. He’ll get a chance to improve his numbers this season. Wake also will replace its entire return game. Sometimes change can be a good thing though. The Deacs averaged only 6.3 yards per punt return in 2008 and ranked ninth in kick off returns.

12. UVA- Sophomore Robert Randolph, not of “and the family band” fame, will battle fellow soph Chris Hinkebein for place kicking duties. Hinkebein started as kick-off specialist at times last season, while Randolph occasionally filled in for departed senior Yannick Reyering, making three of four attempts. Sophomore Jimmy Howell returns to start after a promising true freshman campaign, where he averaged just under 40 yards a punt.  Chase Minnifield should handle return duties. Lots of youth for new special teams coach Ron Prince.

I know, I know, ESPN’s ACC Blogger and frequent Noleinsider contributor Heather Dinich has already finished her ACC Position Rankings; but I started mine first. She began ranking units on the 14th of July; I started on the 2nd. Some may believe this means I’m lazy, I prefer to think of it as having the “first one in, last one out” mentality we idolize in athletes. Either way, here are the Secondary Position Rankings for the ACC.

1. VT-Though the Hokies lost first team All-American Randy Savage, er…Victor Harris, they should still own the top secondary in the ACC. Beamer’s gang returns a group heavy with senior experience and young talent. FS Kam Chancellor, a big and physical defender at 6-4 226 pounds, returns to start for his third consecutive year, his second at the FS position. Senior Stephan Vigil started all 14 games at field corner last season, tying for the team lead with six interceptions. He’s a playmaker with the ball in his hands, and is expected to replace Macho Harris both in that facet, and as starting boundary corner. The fastest football player in Blacksburg, redshirt junior Rashad Carmichael is expected to replace Vigil at Field Corner, but will be pushed by last season’s number two, redshirt sophomore Chris Hill. VT will have its option of skilled veterans to play rover this season. Sophomore Davon Morgan started last year until he wrecked his ACL vs. Nebraska, prompting senior Dorian Porch to fill in admirably. Coaches are high on the pair and both are expected to see the field quite often, but Porch should start game one versus Alabama.

2.GT- The Yellow Jackets ranked eighth in the ACC last season in pass defense, allowing opponents over 190 yards through the air per game. They should be improved this year and need only replace one member of their secondary, Cornerback Jahi Word-Daniels. Sophomore Rashaad Reid, who started in stretches last season, will fill in for Word-Daniels, but he may face some competition from returning redshirt sophomore Jerrard Tarrant. 6-1 junior Mario Butler started 13 games in 2008 and should anchor the other corner position. Safety Morgan Burnett tied for third in the nation last year with seven interceptions and will once again be united with fellow junior Dominique Reese at the other safety position. Cooper Taylor will start at Wolf, but could also see some time at the traditional safety roll in reprieve of Reese.

3. UNC- Butch Davis lost All-ACC safety Trimane Goddard, who started 31 games for the Tar Heels, but his baby blue secondary should still be extremely competitive. They return three starters from 2008, but need to continue to grow. They ranked second in the ACC in interceptions but were burned at times last year, giving up an average of 226 yards passing per game. Senior Jordan Hemby and junior Kendric Burney both return at cornerback, neither one is exceptionally dynamic, but they make things happen. Burney had three picks in 2008 while Hemby led the team in forced fumbles. Denuta Williams started all 13 games last year at safety; he missed spring with a wrist injury, but should be good to go come fall.  Da’Norris Searcy has primarily played special teams at UNC, but started at Safety in the Meineke Car Care Bowl, playing very well. He should replace Goddard and start opposite Williams.

4. BC- The Eagles secondary in 2008 was selfish. Their 26 interceptions tied for the most in the NCAA with Florida and they ranked first in pass defense efficiency in the ACC.  Part of that performance can be attributed to last years stellar pass rush, something they’ll lack this season. Still though, BC’s secondary should be tough. They only need to replace SS Paul Anderson and posses a talented depth chart of players. DeLeon Gause and Roderick Rollins should be the cornerbacks on opening day, but may get pushed by sophomores Isaac Johnson and Donnie Fletcher. Marcellus Bowman will replace Anderson and Wes Davis will return to start at free safety. Dominick LeGrande should also see a hearty chunk of playing time.

5.UVA- If senior Vic Hall plays cornerback, this unit could be strong. If he plays QB, they should still be at the very least, decent. With Hall on defense the Cavs would return a killer duo at cornerback. Hall would return for his third starting season and 6-2 junior Ras-I Dowling would reclaim his starting role for the second straight year. Dowling had three interceptions in 2008 along with 11 swatted passes.  If Hall doesn’t start, senior Chris Cook, who wasn’t in school last year, could possibly step in, as well as junior Mike Parker. Sophomore Corey Mosley is the only returning safety with the departure of Byron Glaspy. Senior Brandon Woods, who briefly started in front of Mosley last season, is one player who could replace Glaspy, the other, sophomore Rodney Mcleod.

6. CLEM- The Tigers return half of their starting secondary, but it’s a damn solid half. Senior cornerbacks Chris Chancellor and Crezdon Butler have started together for 26 consecutive games and are a big reason why Clemson allowed the fewest yards per completion in the ACC in 2008. The Tigers need to replace two long tenured safeties, both of whom started 39 games during their careers. Junior DeAndre McDaniel moved from linebacker to safety this off-season and will attempt to fill the void left by Michael Hamlin. Senior Sadat     Chambers is expected to start at FS, replacing Chris Clemons.
 
7. MARY- The Terps lose two starters from 2008, but are loaded with seniors willing to lead the way. Anthony Wiseman, who started all 13 games last year, and Clay County’s own Nolan Carroll will play cornerback. Terrell Skinner returns at free safety, while Jamari McCollough, who only started twice but led the team with four interceptions, will make the switch to strong safety. Sophomore Kenny Tate could also get in on the act. It’s safe to say the DB’s should be the strength of the Terps defense

8. FSU- Though some Seminole fans may miss Myron Rolle and Tony Carter, many wont. Rolle, a great kid and exceptionally intelligent, was a step slow, and Tony Carter was downright short. Cornerback Patrick Robinson returns for his senior season and hopes to flash back to sophomore form, when he forced six interceptions. As of now Ochuko Jenije is projected to start opposite Robinson, but will have to earn the spot over Dionte Allen, Greg Reid and others. Jaime Robinson is back at free safety, while Korey Mangum and Nick Moody battle to see who starts the Miami game at rover. A couple talented true freshmen could be part of the picture as well.

9.MIAMI- The “U” gave up the second fewest passing yards a game last year in the ACC. Those numbers are slightly skewed, because last season you didn’t have to throw against Miami, you could run on them all day long. Surely though, part of the reason for the secondary’s success was actual skill. Seniors will hold down the corners, as Chavez Grant and Ryan Hill are expected to start. Both started at times last season, along with Brandon Harris. Expect Harris, Arthur Brown and others to see the field as well. JoJo Nicolas started eight games at the safety position in 2008, and the job is his to lose. Senior Randy Phillips is projected to start at the other safety position, but could face competition from Vaughn Telemaque

10.NCST- The Wolfpack is thin in the secondary; that’s not exactly music to the ears of a team that ranked 11th in both pass defense and pass defense efficiency in the conference a year ago. Junior DeAndre Morgan returns to start at cornerback, alongside seldom played senior Koyal George. Clem Johnson battled injuries most of 2008, but returns to start his senior season. Sophomore Justin Byers started eight games last season and will anchor the other safety position.

11.WF- Wake Forrest had the number three pass defense in the ACC in 2008, but lost seven starters on defense, including three in the secondary. Senior corner Brandon Ghee is undoubtedly the leader of the unit; he missed the majority of spring, but will be ready come fall. Either Josh Bush or Kenny Okoro, both of whom played extensively during spring, will start alongside Ghee. Junior Alex Frye and redshirt freshman Cyhl Quarles, both of whom are 6-3, are projected as the starting safeties.

12.DUKE- The Blue Devils ranked ninth last season in the ACC  in pass defense, allowing over 205 yards a game. They return only two starters, strong safety Catron Gainey and senior corner Leon Wright. Sophomore Matt Daniels currently is set to start at free safety. The other corner position is up for grabs. That’s all I know.


Special Teams Coming Soon

Read More...

You can’t blame Aubrey Phillips for leaving Florida State. Like any couple bound for splitsville, they’re just moving in different directions. Phillips wants to play around and put away more cheesecake than Kirstie Alley, FSU wants to win football games. They just couldn’t coexist. The relationship is over and everyone is for the better. The Noles got rid of someone they didn’t really want on the team, and Phillips is out of a situation he didn’t want to be in. Let the story end there. There’s no need to lambaste the leaving lineman for lard-assery, despite his harsh words for Florida State and coach Rick Trickett. It happens in any break-up, someone normally takes the low road, while the other usually takes the high road. The one hurling insults and dragging names through the mud is usually the one with hurt feelings, those walking the road less traveled seem to be moving on to greater things and this case is no different. I’m just curious how the relationship got this far.

Phillips was displeased with the way he was dealt with at FSU, telling AUTigers.com, “I was mistreated and cussed out for no reason everyday.” He went on to say, “ He (Trickett) told me I would never play for him. He said he wished he had never signed me and all of that.”

Poor not so little Aubrey should have realized what he signed up for. Trickett is known for being an astounding offensive line coach, not his passive personality and understanding. It’s also common knowledge that Trickett favors lean, quick linemen, as opposed to space clogging statues. If Phillips wanted to show up in sumo shape, and be lauded for just being there, I’m sure numerous D-II schools would have loved to taken him on, but at FSU, we want the best. Perhaps Aubrey would have been clear showing up like Charlie Weiss if this were 2002, but those days are long gone, never to return again. The program in place now expects excellence, and if not, at least an effort striving towards it. The only thing Phillips, who reportedly showed up to camp 30 pounds over his high school playing weight, was striving towards, was a custom made jersey, a possible heat stroke and a spot on the next season of  “More to Love.” Trickett told the Opelika-Auburn News that Phillips struggled so much during drills, the staff originally believed he had a heart condition.

There’s out of shape, and then there’s “ he’s so sluggish, he must have a heart condition” out of shape.

The blame street runs both ways though, we can’t point the finger at Phillips for being lazy, it’s who he is. We just never should have recruited him in the first place. Trickett even admits so, saying, “he made the wrong choice and I made the wrong choice, this stuff happens in recruiting.”

He’s right, it does. And you can’t blame Trickett for his initial interest in Phillips. We’ve all been fooled by someone before; Kevin Federline thought he was getting a pop princess who ranked an 11 on the hot-o-meter and actually received a loony head-shaving trailer park queen (not that Phillips is a nutty redneck woman, or FSU has anything in common with K-Fed, but you get the analogy).  Rivals ranked Aubrey Phillips the 25th best offensive lineman in the 2009 class. He’s a talented kid, who was a four-star recruit, played both ways and was smart enough to rack up a 3.8 GPA during high school.  It seemed like a solid fit, but after getting acquainted, both sides realized they misjudged the other. Trickett thought he was getting a dedicated and diligent lineman; Phillips thought he was going to a school that pampered athletes, and put the needs of the individual over the goal of the team. Let’s just be happy the divorce came quickly and neither party really needed one another. The Noles are stacked with skill at offensive line and Phillips had other suitors.

Philips continues to trash FSU and spin his story to the Auburn media. Some Tallahassee media outlets even continue to ridicule Philips. I say let it end. We’re better without him. There’s no need for the smack talk to continue. Mistakes happen, especially in relationships.

Last Week I noted that nothing was going on in the world of sports, and I was right. However this week, though it too was slow as far as major headlines, for some reason I have a surplus of topics I want to touch on. I don’t know if I was just being lazy, or if this go around I’m feeling extra verbose, but for whatever reason there’s a huge discrepancy between this week and the last, when there really shouldn’t be. Hmm… either way, as Jimmy Buffett would say, “I don’t know, and I don’t care.” So, sit back and enjoy.

FSU NEWS

Bobby Bowden Roast- First off, I was shocked to see Greg Giraldo and Jeffrey Ross weren’t in attendance. Don’t they roast everybody? I’m fairly certain it’s the only type of work they get. If they would have known a meal was provided, I’m sure they would have done it for free. Hopefully they’re finding money elsewhere. Anyway, I wasn’t there, but after reading recaps and reviews, it appears the roast turned toast with the jokes all centering around Bobby being elderly and having southern vernacular. Honestly, I’m a little disappointed and upset with the roasters. Obviously Coach Bowden is a hell of a man that deserves to be revered for all he’s done for college football, but c’mon, it’s a freaking roast. There’s sooo much more material than old jokes and cracking on his down home slang.  In Jeff Bowden shots alone there’s enough substance for a book. I’m not an enormous fan of his show, but I’m sure a Jeff Cameron appearance would have been noteworthy. Also, I’m curious, do you think certain topics were off limits? I’d almost guarantee it. I’m shocked no one dropped, “Bobby’s ability to keep players in line rivals the parenting skills of Lynne Spears and Dina Lohan.” I would have.

Ron Simmons Inducted into College Football HOF- Big week for Mr. Simmons, roasting Coach Bowden and getting inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame; he probably hasn’t’ been this busy since he and JBL were vying for the tag team titles. I got nothing but love for Simmons. He was a monster Nose Guard, who once finished in the top 10 for the Heisman and is one of seven players to have their jersey retired at FSU. I never really got to witness his dominance on the football field, however I’m well acquainted with his pro-wrestling prowess. He became the first African American to win the WCW championship, after beating Vader in 1992. My favorite Ron Simmons is probably the Nation Of Domination version; his feud with The Rock was awesome. If you wreak havoc for FSU on the field, you’re the man in my eyes; to do that, and become a radical professional wrestler, takes him to a whole new level.  Congrats to Ron Simmons. He’s a champion.

Seminole Showtime Camp- Saturday, before the camp I wrote:
 
“Hopefully hanging in Tallahassee and interacting with Seminole greats like Chris Weinke and Derrick Brooks will cause some more kids to lean in FSU’s direction. I understand signing day is a long ways a way, but I could use a few more verbal commitments. I’m not uncomfortable, but I’d like to breathe a bit more easy.”

Obviously I’m breathing with ease after the Noles secured two more verbal commits moments before Seminole Showtime began. Byrnes (SC) product, four-star DE Corey Miller, and Dunnellon CB Terrence Brooks bring FSU’s current commitments for the class of 2010 up to eight. More to come on these new commits later.

Jeff Bowden Speaks- The man I consider responsible for leveling the football program down to mediocrity, and rapidly increasing my aging process, finally came out of his cave this week. Jeff Bowden spoke publicly for the first time since his buyout, which I still consider the best thing FSU has done since 1999, he briefly discussed his time at FSU and his new gig as WR coach at Northern Alabama, where (big freaking surprise) his brother Terry is the head coach. He’s not even being paid for the job; he’s a volunteer coach who makes his bank from his huge payday for sucking. Terry Bowden told the Orlando Sentinel that Jeff’s time at FSU was like “hell” and that, “I know he can coach.” Well, Terry, you’re brother created his hell and he can’t coach, it’s why your family members are the only ones who employ him.

The Notorious J-E-Double F said of his atrocious O.C. tenure, "If I had to point to one thing, I'd just say I wish I could have done a better job. That's all I've got control over. I wish I could have done a better job. That's all." He sounds like George W. discussing his presidency. If either Bowden is looking for sympathy for Jeff from Seminole fans, to quote the classic “Major Payne”, “ he can find it in the dictionary between sh** and syphilis.”

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Urban Meyer’s Bold Statement- UF Coach Urban Meyer told the Gainesville Sun this week, “ I’m not going to Notre Dame. Ever. I’m going to be the coach at Florida for a long time, as long as they want me.” Everyone knows college coaches aren’t exactly known for their child like honesty, and I’m almost certain Meyer made similar statements before bolting Bowling Green and disappearing from Utah, but I believe him. Leaving UF for Notre Dame, despite it being you’re “dream job”, would be like dumping Megan Fox for your high school sweetheart whose been divorced twice, has five kids with different fathers and weighs in at two bills. Perhaps when the “Chosen One” leaves and UF begins to decline, then maybe, but now, no way in hell.

Tim Tebow Not a Unanimous All-SEC Selection- One SEC coach, other than Meyer- who can’t, didn’t select Tebow as the best QB in the SEC. Though he’s incorrect, whoever he is, is now one of my favorite people in all of college football, because it was obviously done out of sincere spite.

NFL

Antonio Cromartie- The former Seminole, who made the Pro Bowl in 2007 after a 10-interception season, was a member of the underachieving San Diego Chargers team in 2008 that went 8-8. Expectations were lofty for the thunderbolts, but injuries and other factors slowed the team. Cromartie’s play declined significantly as well, in large part because he played with a fractured hip throughout the year. However, recently Cro admitted to the San Diego Union-Tribune that he was battling some personal issues, “I was dealing with my kids and their moms.” Notice the plurality. The Tallahassee native has been named in at least five paternity suits in the last two years, and reportedly has seven children in five different states. Has the man learned nothing from The Reignman, The Real Deal and Travis Henry? What’s the point in making millions in the NFL only to throw it all away on child support? He’s a freaking cornerback, shouldn’t he know something about protection and coverage? Sure, no condom may be more fun, but its’ a whole lot less fun than having a herd of money hungry baby mamas, who played you like a harmonica. One part of this story though is truly remarkable, and should almost elevate Cro in to the Man HOF; he’s producing all these rugrats with a fractured hip. That’s downright impressive. Also, speaking of Travis Henry…

Travis Henry Earns Three Years in Prison- A federal judge sentenced Henry to three years for financing a cocaine drug ring. I just feel bad for Henry’s kids, who now have to grow up with their dad in jail, all 47 of then.

Simpson-Romo Split- Cowboys QB Tony Romo reportedly dumped the zaftig songstress the day before her birthday. Cold blooded move. I’d say he has ice water in his veins, but anyone who’s seen the Cowboys play in December and beyond realizes that would be an immense fabrication. I wonder whom they’ll pan to in the stands when the Boys lose now. With no T.O. or Jessica Simpson around to serve as a distraction, will the world finally realize what many have known all along, that Romo is a product of a pass happy offense and the ESPN hype machine. He’s decent, but that’s about it.

Also, this brings about two other crucial questions. Where does Jessica Simpson go from here? Will she balloon up; will she turn on the heat? What does she do now, realizing her career is on the down slope and her only way of staying in the public eye is as a piece of tabloid fodder as someone’s arm candy. Personally, I hope she decides to get hammered in a town where she’s not commonly found, say Tallahassee, and does something she’ll regret, say hooking up with a red-headed sports writer. We all can dream right? And who does Romo move onto? Who’s the next country-singing blonde he shacks up with? If I’m Romo, I switch my style up. I’m going with a brunette, and maybe a model or actress instead (Simpson doesn’t count as an actress obviously). Maybe then he can get over the hump.

Free Agent Contracts

Prior to last season Matt Cassel hadn’t started a game since high school, but thanks to his admirable work filling in for Tom Brady, this week the Chiefs signed Cassel to a contract worth $63 million with $28 million guaranteed. The man who never started a game in the NCAA now makes $10 million a year because of one good season. Last year he led the Pats to an 11-5 record and threw for 3,693 yards and 21 TD’s, 11 of which went to Randy Moss. I hope Matt realizes he should buy Moss another racecar for the truck series or franchise one of his smoothie shops in Kansas City, because without the most dominant WR in the NFL (possibly of all time), Cassel would still be a back-up QB, or floating around the market with the Charlie Batch’s of the league.

Terrell Suggs is a hell of a linebacker, ask any QB in the NFL, but the Raven’s just made him the highest paid linebacker in the history of the league, signing the former Sun Devil to a six-year $63 million contact. And now, fair or not, he has to live up to that billing. The 26 yr old DE/LB had 68 tackles last year and tied for 17th in the NFL in sacks, with eight. He also had two picks and a pair of forced fumbles. He’s a stud player, and I’d take him on my team any day, but now he has to take his game to a new level.

 I wish there were a free agency system in life so people could get overpaid based on a small sample of work, or out of need, or because they’re a good fit.  I’d like to waltz into a fat contract because someone had room under the cap, and during that particular off-season I was the best sportswriter/ radio personality available, or simply because my style of commentary suited their scheme.

Philip Rivers- The Chargers QB was shown up at a football camp in Alabama by a high school kid. The kid didn’t go into witness protection, and the tape didn’t vanish; it actually appeared on the news and is readily available web wide. Much to the utter shock of Lebron James, the world doesn’t think less of Rivers and he still gets to keep his job in the NFL.

MLB

Braves Retire Maddux’s Number- The Bravos decided to retire number 31 in honor of Greg Maddux, who won 3 Cy Young awards with the team in the mid 90’s. As a Braves fan that loved those mid 90’s teams, I think it had to be done. It was a no brainer. However, with the way the organization recently treated his comrades in arms, John Smoltz and Tom Glavine, I’m surprised they didn’t invite him back and debut his number on the newest AAA call up or trade acquisition.

HR Derby- I didn’t watch the whole thing, just here and there, but it’s good to see going vegetarian hasn’t stopped Prince Fielder from crushing the baseball.

All-Star game- One day I’m going to have my grandchild on my knee and I’ll tell him stories of how the NL used to win the All-Star game. They had their chances this year and just couldn’t get it done; Crawford made a great snag and the A.L. bullpen was just too nasty. I wanted to see a little better performance out of Lincecum, since I don’t watch too many Giants games, but I loved that he pegged Jeter.

NBA

T Mac switches number- Tracy McGrady is giving newly acquired teammate Trevor Ariza his old no. 1 and switching over to no.3. He wore No. 3 in high school, and is making the switch to help promote his documentary of his summer 2007 visits to refugee camps in Darfur, entitled “3 Points. “ Despite his noble efforts, I doubt switching numbers is going to jumpstart his career. I wish it would, but it probably won’t. He’ll more than likely miss most of next season rehabbing from injury, and who knows what he’ll be when he returns?  I recall T-Mac having trouble throwing it down last year, and he used to sky with the best of them.

Knicks Welcome Back Curry- This matters to no one except basketball junkies and Knicks fans, but Eddy Curry practiced with the summer league team this weak, and one of the highlights from the report was the praise of his ability to dunk with ease. He’s 6-11, he should be able to freaking dunk with ease, especially since he got paid almost $10 million last season to play professional basketball; kind of. Curry played in three games, scoring a total of five points. Reportedly he has lost 30 lbs, but he probably still won’t see the floor in D’Antoni’s system, and no one in their right mind would take on his contract.

Summer League- I’m going to be brief, because this topic can either be almost nonexistent or loquacious to the point of a Stephen King book. Trust me, we all want option one. Just know this, many of the upper draft picks and a couple familiar names are playing well, and Toney Douglas is standing out for good reasons. More to come on TD later.

Magic and Gortat- Otis did it again. I can’t believe for the second time in two weeks I’m going to praise his general managing skills. I feel fine. I don’t have a fever. I’m impressed and really confused. Smith pulled another great move for Orlando. He matched the Mavericks’ five-year $34 million offer for center Marcin Gortat, after stealing Brandon Bass from them last week. The Magic are deeper in the luxury tax, but this is awesome. If they keep Gortat, which is unlikely, they have a top of the line back-up center for Dwight Howard; if they trade him away, at least they get something in value as opposed to just letting a talented big man walk away. Otis Smith is making me a believer (I really may need to schedule a doctors appointment).

OTHER

Brock Lesnar- Anyone who witnessed UFC 100 knows Brock Lesnar is a legit monster; not, “this 265 LB is a monster,” but, “Holy Crap! Godzilla’s here. Someone call Brock Lesnar, he’s a monster.” Apparently it became vogue this week to call out Mr. Lesnar. Fellow UFC fighter Shane Carwin lambasted Lesnar and his actions on his blog; pro-wrestler/MMA fighter Bobby Lashley also declared that he wants a shot at Brock; Dana White even said Shaq want to fight the human-silverback-rhinoceros hybrid. Hopefully the Diesel, despite his MMA interest, was joking, because if not, he can join the other guys in being absolutely insane. Why would anyone want to fight this guy? I understand it’s an ego thing, but he’s an exception. You’re not going to win a “fair” fight, and the money your getting paid would only go to medical expenses to make you look human again.

Dave Chappelle- The mysterious comedic genius popped up unexpectedly at a downtown square in Portland to put on a show. Rumors spread like wildfire and thousands of people showed up, standing sandwiched shoulder-to-shoulder. The event eventually fizzled due to technical difficulties, but that’s not the point. A Chappelle sighting is rare; they’re a thing of beauty. How far would you travel if you heard a rumor that Dave Chappelle was putting on a surprise performance? If I could make it in time, I’d drive three states on 50 percent probability.

Jeremy Mayfield and NASCAR- Anything I could write about this story wouldn’t do the actual tale justice. If you know about it, you understand. Those of you who haven’t been following along, please do yourself a favor and do a quick Google search. Here’s a tease, it involves meth, racecars, and extreme degrees of trailorhood.

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1.FSU- The Noles return all five starters along the line for the first time since 2004 and look to improve upon last year, when they ranked 2nd in the ACC in rushing offense, only behind option junkies Georgia Tech. They ranked fifth last season in the ACC in sacks against, but with another year under the belt of the entire line and starting QB Christian Ponder, those numbers should improve. LG Rodney Hudson garnered 1st Team ACC honors last year, while LT Andrew Datko was named a Freshman All American; fellow starters Sanders, Spurlock, and McMahon aren’t exactly shabby either.

2. Boston College- Outside of LG Clif Ramsey, the Eagles return the whole crew from 2008. BC ranked third in sacks allowed and fifth in rushing offense in the ACC last year. Whoever ends up playing QB for the Eagles should have some time to work with. If he’s even close to competent he should stay upright for most of the year; the O-Line is massive, the featherweight of the group is 6-7 LT Anthony Castonzo and he tips the scales at nearly 290 lbs.

3. UVA- I’ve knocked the Cavs for their lack of playmakers constantly throughout these rankings, and rightfully so, they lost their leading rusher and their five leading receivers. But all is not gloom and doom in Cavalier territory, UVA returns four starters from an o-line that topped the ACC in sacks against and ranked fourth in rushing. They do however have to make up for the departure of Eugene Monroe, who was selected eighth in this years NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Sophomore Landon Bradley will attempt to fill Eugene’s cleats, and though he lacks experience he makes up for it with size, 6-7 275lbs. Bradley was named most improved player during spring drills by UVA coaches in 2008 and seems ready to step into the starting LT position.

4. Virginia Tech- Though they easily held down the bottom of the ACC in sacks against last season (42), the Hokies are returning three starters including both tackles, and they ranked third in the ACC in rushing offense. Junior Beau Warren will replace Ryan Shuman at Center, and redshirt sophomore Jaymes Brooks will take over at RG. With fleet footed and furiously quick Tyrod Taylor back at QB instead of the brick booted Sean Glennon, the sack numbers should decrease exponentially. Toss in the return of record-setting running back Darren Evans, and this Hokie offense could be ill.

5. NCSU- The Wolf Pack lost both guards from last season, but return three starters and look to start an o-line with four seniors and junior. The got games under their belts, and their belts are XXXL; not a single starter weighs less than 300 lbs. They should improve from last year where they ranked 10th in the ACC in sacks allowed.

6. GT- The Jackets sported the best ground game in the ACC last season, and were second in sacks allowed. I understand that’s probably a product of not passing the ball, but it’s impressive nonetheless. They return three starters, both guards and Center Dan Voss, as well as 6-6 sophomore Nick Claytor, who started five games a year ago. As of now, redshirt junior T Austin Barrick is penciled in to start, but redshirt soph Clyde Yandell might push him. Either way, the Wreck will run and rack up yards, while continuing to not get sacked. They should continue to improve in the 2nd year of the option offense.

7.UNC – The Tar Heels have some big bodies down in the trenches. Well, everyone does in D1 football, but these guys are exceptionally large. Not a single one weighs in below 290 lbs. Not only do they have the size to strike fear into any Chinese Buffet, but they also have the experience to earn respect in the ACC. The boys in baby blue will return the left side of their line, along with senior Center Lowell Dyer, but have some work to do on the right, where they need to replace two three-year starters. Junior Mike Ingersoll will step in at RT, but the RG spot is still up in the air after Aaron Stahl decided to forgo his senior season upon graduating. (Note: I understand it’s different for everyone, but there’s no way I give up a year of paid college to enter the “real world.” If I were Stahl, I’d have a schedule comprised of stretching and relaxation and bowling. I might even pull a Matt Leinart and take ballroom dancing, but that’s just me.)

8. Clemson- Though the Tigers return all starters, this isn’t necessarily a good thing. Even with Spiller and Davis, Clemson ranked ninth in the ACC in rushing offense last season, and also managed to give up more sacks than anyone in the conference other than VT. Four of their linemen were first year starters last season, and the results could just be growing pains. Perhaps the Tigers will be vastly improved; perhaps their line just stinks. We shall see.

9. WF- Riley Skinner’s bodyguards all return from a season ago. Like Clemson, this may not be beneficial.  Wake was 10th in the ACC last year in sacks allowed (30) and they only averaged 3.1 yards-per-carry. Skinner is accurate, but not when doing his best David Carr impression. The line should improve, but it might remain stagnant.

10. Miami- The Canes return three starters from last year’s mediocre squad. They could, however, potentially shoot up this list. With Jacory Harris running the ship, and three seniors and two gargantuan juniors protecting him, Miami might actually be formidable on offense this year. Their O-line doesn’t exactly have a track record of success, but they’re big enough to play well, and old enough to know it.

11. Maryland- Only sophomore LT Bruce Campbell and junior RG Phil Costa return from last years line that helped the Terps rank 4th in rushing offense in the ACC. Insert your own, “Chris Turner will spend more time on his back then…” joke here.

12. Duke- The Blue Devils bring back sophomore G Kyle Hill and junior C Bryan Morgan, both of whom only have one year of starting experience, and that’s it. At least QB Thaddeus Lewis has a dependable ground game behind him to keep defenses on their toes…oh wait, he doesn’t. (Shaking head).