Take that, Playoff Gurus! Take that, SEC apologists! Take that, all you so-called "experts" who didn't bother to understand how good Texas Christian was, or the enormous difference in talent between Texas Christian and Ole Miss.
The Texas Christian Horned Frogs humiliated Mississippi 42-3 in the Peach Bowl today, and believe me it could have been much worse if Texas Christian had wanted it to be. So this page will stay purple and white for a long time.
Ole Miss falls to 3-8-1 in UCFC play, and showed that they didn't deserve to be playing on New Year's Eve. It will be a long time before they get another chance at the crown.
Texas Christian finishes with a record of 12-1 overall, and they run their record to 37-19-6 in UCFC play. If the Horned Frogs hadn't lost their minds in the last 10 minutes of their game against Baylor, they might very well have won the National Championship. They were that good.
Next year, Texas Christian will open the season on Thursday, September 3 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where they will take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The University of Minnesota hasn't played for the Big Gold Trophy since 2006, and I'm sure their fans will be very excited at their chance. We'll be looking forward to it as well.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Texas Christian 28 - 0 Mississippi (2 minutes left in 2d Quarter)
Down 21 points, badly outplayed on both sides of the ball, and showing almost no signs of life, Ole Miss was given a great break -- an interception that gave them a chance to get off the field without giving up any more points. Instead, the Rebels decided that it would be a good idea to start firing passes from their own two yard line.
On first down, Ole Miss QB Bo Wallace was almost sacked and just barely avoided a safety. You would think that would have been a warning to Ole Miss to shelve the passing game until everyone could regroup in the locker room. But you would be wrong.
On second down, Ole Miss tried ANOTHER pass from its own 2 yard line. This time, Wallace found himself surrounded eight yards deep in the end zone by what appeared to be the entire Texas Christian defense. Desperately trying to throw an incomplete pass, he pitched the ball away -- but it went straight into the hands of James McFarland, a defensive end from West Monroe H.S. in West Monroe, La. Since McFarland was already two yards inside the Ole Miss end zone, he had one of the easiest pick-sixes you will ever see.
So this game is over. Ole Miss isn't nearly as good as Texas Christian, and would have struggled to keep things close under any circumstances. But Texas Christian's anger over being left out of the playoff, some really dumb decisions by Bo Wallace and the Ole Miss coaching staff, and a determination by Texas Christian to teach the rest of the country a lesson, are turning this game into an epic blowout.
On first down, Ole Miss QB Bo Wallace was almost sacked and just barely avoided a safety. You would think that would have been a warning to Ole Miss to shelve the passing game until everyone could regroup in the locker room. But you would be wrong.
On second down, Ole Miss tried ANOTHER pass from its own 2 yard line. This time, Wallace found himself surrounded eight yards deep in the end zone by what appeared to be the entire Texas Christian defense. Desperately trying to throw an incomplete pass, he pitched the ball away -- but it went straight into the hands of James McFarland, a defensive end from West Monroe H.S. in West Monroe, La. Since McFarland was already two yards inside the Ole Miss end zone, he had one of the easiest pick-sixes you will ever see.
So this game is over. Ole Miss isn't nearly as good as Texas Christian, and would have struggled to keep things close under any circumstances. But Texas Christian's anger over being left out of the playoff, some really dumb decisions by Bo Wallace and the Ole Miss coaching staff, and a determination by Texas Christian to teach the rest of the country a lesson, are turning this game into an epic blowout.
Texas Christian 21 - 0 Mississippi (2:42 left in 2d Quarter)
Texas Christian, going for the kill, threw a long pass that was INTERCEPTED by Ole Miss at its own 2 yard line. Credit goes to Cody Prewitt of Sylva Bay Academy of Bay Springs, Miss.
Texas Christian 21 - 0 Mississippi (4:16 left in 2d Quarter)
Ole Miss goes three-and-out, as expected, and the Texas Christian players go off the field giving the "land shark" sign normally flashed by the Ole Miss defense. Texas Christian is not content to win this game -- the Frogs are determined to absolutely humiliate Ole Miss. Texas Christian is angry about being left out of the playoff, it is sick and tired of hearing about the SEC, and it is determined to make a statement. The trick plays, the land shark signs, the general violence and intensity of Texas Christian's play all reflect a bitter determination to punish Ole Miss. And now the Frogs have a great chance to pad their lead.
Texas Christian 21 - 0 Mississippi (5:57 left in 2d Quarter)
Texas Christian quickly moved down to the Ole Miss 37, but for once their offense stalled and they were forced to punt. Ole Miss will start its next three-and-out possession from its own 9.
Texas Christian 21 - 0 Mississippi (9:13 left in 2d Quarter)
Ole Miss again goes three and out, and they punt to the Texas Christian 45.
It is impossible to overstate how bad the Ole Miss offense looks. The only way I can describe it is to say that every single player for Texas Christian appears to be significantly better than his opposite number for Ole Miss. No one for Ole Miss can make a block, no receiver for Ole Miss is ever open, no running back for Ole Miss ever has a hole, and Bo Wallace looks like a guy who won a "Play-quarterback-for-a-day" contest.
Again, this is not surprising -- the Rebels looked like this against Arkansas. The main reason that this game is so ugly is that the Ole Miss defense (which has been their strength for most of the season) has no clue how to stop the Texas Christian offense.
Unless Texas Christian starts showing off again, the Frogs should score their fourth touchdown pretty soon.
It is impossible to overstate how bad the Ole Miss offense looks. The only way I can describe it is to say that every single player for Texas Christian appears to be significantly better than his opposite number for Ole Miss. No one for Ole Miss can make a block, no receiver for Ole Miss is ever open, no running back for Ole Miss ever has a hole, and Bo Wallace looks like a guy who won a "Play-quarterback-for-a-day" contest.
Again, this is not surprising -- the Rebels looked like this against Arkansas. The main reason that this game is so ugly is that the Ole Miss defense (which has been their strength for most of the season) has no clue how to stop the Texas Christian offense.
Unless Texas Christian starts showing off again, the Frogs should score their fourth touchdown pretty soon.
Texas Christian 21 - 0 Mississippi (11 minutes left in 2d Quarter)
So after two silly turnovers, Texas Christian decided to pay attention, and the Frogs quickly zipped down the field for another touchdown. This time they scored on a 12-yard pass from Boykin to Josh Doctson of Mansfield, Tex.
The real mystery here is not that Ole Miss is getting crushed -- the last time I saw them play they lost 30-0 to Arkansas -- but how Ole Miss managed to beat Mississippi State. That is a result that bodes very ill for MSU going into tonight's Orange Bowl.
The real mystery here is not that Ole Miss is getting crushed -- the last time I saw them play they lost 30-0 to Arkansas -- but how Ole Miss managed to beat Mississippi State. That is a result that bodes very ill for MSU going into tonight's Orange Bowl.
Texas Christian 14 - 0 Mississippi (14:44 left in 2d Quarter)
As usual, Ole Miss goes three and out. Texas Christian starts from its own 40, and surely this time the Frogs will put the Rebels away.
Texas Christian 14 - 0 Mississippi (1:21 left in 1st Quarter)
The Ole Miss offense, which appears to be running in molasses, did absolutely nothing with the turnover -- going nowhere and then missing a field goal. Texas Christian took over and immediately zipped down the field, before Trevone Boykin threw a terrible interception -- putting the ball right into the hands of Keith Lewis of Freedom H.S. in Tampa. Ole Miss will start from its own 30.
Texas Christian 14 - 0 Mississippi (3:56 left in 1st Quarter)
The Texas Christian coaching staff has evidently decided that this game is in the bag, because they're calling the sort of plays that you would use against middle schoolers in flag football. This possession starts with a sort of hook-and-ladder play which results in a fumble. Ole Miss takes over at the Texas Christian 32.
Texas Christian 14 - 0 Mississippi (4:04 left in 1st Quarter)
But Ole Miss still has Bo Wallace (of Giles Co. H.S. in Pulaski, Tenn.) at quarterback, and he is having a terrible day. He throws his SECOND interception of the quarter, a weak pass that was easily picked off by Derrick Kindred (of Wagner H.S. in San Antonio, Tex.) Texas Christian will start from its own 42, and now the Frogs can really bury the Rebels.
Texas Christian 14 - 0 Mississippi (4:10 left in 1st Quarter)
The Ole Miss defense -- which has been humiliated so far -- finally shows up. The Rebels force a three-and-out, and they will now start from their own 46. On the radio, the ESPN announcers are gamely trying to convince us that Ole Miss has a chance.
Texas Christian 14 - 0 Mississippi (4:55 left in 1st Quarter)
Ole Miss goes three-and-out, and the Rebels are forced to punt. Texas Christian will start from its own 13.
Texas Christian 14 - 0 Mississippi (6:23 left in 1st Quarter)
Well, that was pretty easy. Texas Christian takes 15 plays to go the length of the field and score its second touchdown of the day. Aaron Green gets his second touchdown of the day on a 15-yard run where he was basically untouched.
Ole Miss looks completely overwhelmed and outclassed. Look at the stats for the two quarterbacks:
Bo Wallace (Ole Miss): 0-4, 0 yards, 1 interception
Trevone Boykin (Texas Christian): 8-9, 54 yards
There's no doubt in my mind that if Baylor and Texas Christian never got the national respect that they deserved this year. If the Texas Christian players, and their coach, were all at Austin playing for the University of Texas, they would have been taken much more seriously. And the circus-like nature of Baylor's 61-58 win over Texas Christian -- a game that lasted almost 4 1/2 hours and featured pretty much no defense -- hurt the reputation of both the Bears and the Horned Frogs. But it's already clear that Ole Miss -- not the best team in the SEC, but a solid team with a decent record -- doesn't even belong on the same field with Texas Christian.
Ole Miss looks completely overwhelmed and outclassed. Look at the stats for the two quarterbacks:
Bo Wallace (Ole Miss): 0-4, 0 yards, 1 interception
Trevone Boykin (Texas Christian): 8-9, 54 yards
There's no doubt in my mind that if Baylor and Texas Christian never got the national respect that they deserved this year. If the Texas Christian players, and their coach, were all at Austin playing for the University of Texas, they would have been taken much more seriously. And the circus-like nature of Baylor's 61-58 win over Texas Christian -- a game that lasted almost 4 1/2 hours and featured pretty much no defense -- hurt the reputation of both the Bears and the Horned Frogs. But it's already clear that Ole Miss -- not the best team in the SEC, but a solid team with a decent record -- doesn't even belong on the same field with Texas Christian.
Texas Christian 7 - 0 Mississippi (11:14 left in 1st Quarter)
Uniform watch: Texas Christian looks very sharp today -- white helmets with a purple TCU logo and the Horned Frog, purple jerseys with white numerals in their usual camouflage style, and white pants. Ole Miss has one of the best uniforms in college football, but I don't agree with their decision to combine their white jerseys with white pants.
Texas Christian 7 - 0 Mississippi (12:19 left in 1st Quarter)
Well, Ole Miss didn't throw an interception on that possession, but that's about all you can say in their behalf. They almost threw an interception, and they had to punt after picking up one first down. Texas Christian will start from its own 21, and I won't be surprised if they're in the end zone pretty quickly.
Texas Christian 7 - 0 Mississippi (14 minutes left in 1st Quarter)
Well, I just told you to expect an easy win for Texas Christian, and the Horned Frogs are making me look good. Ole Miss took the opening kickoff, and quickly threw an interception. Texas Christian took over on the Ole Miss 35, and two plays later ran a trick play that made Ole Miss look like a high school team. Texas Christian quarterback Trevone Boykin (of W. Mesquite H.S. in Dallas) threw a screen pass to wide receiver Kolby Listenbee (of Bowie H.S. in Arlington, Tex.) And then Listenbee lofted a pass to Aaron Green (of San Antonio, Tex.) who was all alone in the end zone. Jaden Oberkrom (of Martin H.S. in Arlington, Tex.) tacked on the extra point, and the Frogs had an early 7-0 lead.
It all looked very, very easy. I just don't think Ole Miss has enough firepower to keep pace with Texas Christian, and this game could get ugly before it's all said and done.
It all looked very, very easy. I just don't think Ole Miss has enough firepower to keep pace with Texas Christian, and this game could get ugly before it's all said and done.
Texas Christian v. Mississippi
Today's Peach Bowl is huge for fans of the UCFC, as it will determine who gets the title for the next season. Furthermore, it will decide whether the UCFC starts off in the Big XII for the fourth year in a row, or whether it returns to the SEC for the first time since early in the 2011 season.
This game will be only the sixth meeting between the Texas Christian Horned Frogs and the Ole Miss Rebels -- the Rebels lead the all-time series 4-1. The two teams have never met for the UCFC before. But they do have some interesting history. Johnny Vaught, the legendary coach at Ole Miss from 1947 to 1970, was a graduate of Texas Christian. And the two teams met on January 1, 1948 in Memphis at the inaugural Delta Bowl. (This was also the next-to-last Delta Bowl, as the game only lasted for two seasons.) Ole Miss won that game 13-9. Eight years later, the Rebels and Horned Frogs met in the 1956 Cotton Bowl. Both teams were 9-1 going into this game, which was a cracker. You can see the highlights here. The Rebels, led by quarterback Eagle Day (which may be the best name in the history of SEC football, if not all sports), pulled out a dramatic, come-from-behind victory, beating the Horned Frogs 14 to 13.
This game will probably feature a lot more points than the two previous bowl meetings between Texas Christian and Ole Miss. Vegas likes Texas Christian to win by more than 3 points in a game where 56 points will be scored. That would work out to a 30-26 Texas Christian win.
Personally, I'm going to be surprised if the Rebels keep it that close. Ole Miss lost three of its last five games in the regular season, and one of those victories was against Presbyterian -- not exactly a powerhouse. Meanwhile, Texas Christian steamrolled almost every team it played, and capped off the year with dominant wins over Texas (48-10) and Iowa State (55-3).
The only way you can give Ole Miss much of a chance in this game is if you think the Big XII is significantly weaker than the SEC. And that could be the case. Here's how the two leagues have done in the bowl games so far:
SEC (4-1)
Independence Bowl: S. Carolina 24, Miami (Fla.) 21
Liberty Bowl: Texas A & M 45, W. Virginia 37
Texas Bowl: Arkansas 31, Texas 7
Music City Bowl: Notre Dame 31, Louisiana St. 28
Belk Bowl: Georgia 37, Louisville 14
Big XII (0-3)
Liberty Bowl: Texas A & M 45, W. Virginia 37
Russell Athletic Bowl: Clemson 40, Oklahoma 6
Texas Bowl: Arkansas 31, Texas 7
The Oklahoma and Texas results are pretty ugly, but those teams were fading down the stretch anyway -- Texas Christian crushed UT just a few weeks ago. To me, it would be embarrassing if Texas Christian -- which was screaming about being left out of the College Football Playoff -- loses to a team that is no better than fourth or fifth in the SEC.
This game will be only the sixth meeting between the Texas Christian Horned Frogs and the Ole Miss Rebels -- the Rebels lead the all-time series 4-1. The two teams have never met for the UCFC before. But they do have some interesting history. Johnny Vaught, the legendary coach at Ole Miss from 1947 to 1970, was a graduate of Texas Christian. And the two teams met on January 1, 1948 in Memphis at the inaugural Delta Bowl. (This was also the next-to-last Delta Bowl, as the game only lasted for two seasons.) Ole Miss won that game 13-9. Eight years later, the Rebels and Horned Frogs met in the 1956 Cotton Bowl. Both teams were 9-1 going into this game, which was a cracker. You can see the highlights here. The Rebels, led by quarterback Eagle Day (which may be the best name in the history of SEC football, if not all sports), pulled out a dramatic, come-from-behind victory, beating the Horned Frogs 14 to 13.
This game will probably feature a lot more points than the two previous bowl meetings between Texas Christian and Ole Miss. Vegas likes Texas Christian to win by more than 3 points in a game where 56 points will be scored. That would work out to a 30-26 Texas Christian win.
Personally, I'm going to be surprised if the Rebels keep it that close. Ole Miss lost three of its last five games in the regular season, and one of those victories was against Presbyterian -- not exactly a powerhouse. Meanwhile, Texas Christian steamrolled almost every team it played, and capped off the year with dominant wins over Texas (48-10) and Iowa State (55-3).
The only way you can give Ole Miss much of a chance in this game is if you think the Big XII is significantly weaker than the SEC. And that could be the case. Here's how the two leagues have done in the bowl games so far:
SEC (4-1)
Independence Bowl: S. Carolina 24, Miami (Fla.) 21
Liberty Bowl: Texas A & M 45, W. Virginia 37
Texas Bowl: Arkansas 31, Texas 7
Music City Bowl: Notre Dame 31, Louisiana St. 28
Belk Bowl: Georgia 37, Louisville 14
Big XII (0-3)
Liberty Bowl: Texas A & M 45, W. Virginia 37
Russell Athletic Bowl: Clemson 40, Oklahoma 6
Texas Bowl: Arkansas 31, Texas 7
The Oklahoma and Texas results are pretty ugly, but those teams were fading down the stretch anyway -- Texas Christian crushed UT just a few weeks ago. To me, it would be embarrassing if Texas Christian -- which was screaming about being left out of the College Football Playoff -- loses to a team that is no better than fourth or fifth in the SEC.
Mississippi
The story of Ole Miss football is the story of decades of frustration surrounding a single golden era. The state of Mississippi doesn't have as many people as its neighbors, and it has to support two SEC schools -- Ole Miss and Mississippi State. The result is that most of the time Ole Miss has simply not had enough talent to compete with schools like Alabama, LSU, Georgia, and Florida. Of course, the Rebels have not helped themselves with their recruiting efforts. Look at some of the great football players from Mississippi who never played for Ole Miss:
Walter Payton (Columbia, Miss.) went to Jackson State.
Jerry Rice (Crawford, Miss.) went to Mississippi Valley State.
Steve McNair (Mount Olive, Miss.) went to Alcorn State.
Brett Favre (Kiln, Miss.) went to Southern Mississippi.
My guess is that Ole Miss football would look a lot different today if guys like Brett Favre and Jerry Rice were hanging out on the sidelines in their Rebel gear.
Nevertheless, the Rebels do have one great golden era to celebrate. When Johnny Vaught took over the program before the 1947 season, the Rebels were 9th in the all-time SEC football standings. By the time he retired after the 1970 season, Ole Miss had moved up to third. Vaught had an all-time record of 190-61-12, and he won the SEC championship in 1947, 1954, 1955, 1960, 1962, and 1963. Ten of his teams finished ranked in the AP top 10, and two of them (the 1959 and 1960 teams) finished at number 2 in the AP Poll.
Vaught's departure from Ole Miss coincided with the end of segregation in the SEC. With their rebel flags and mascot, and their overall preppy image, it is easy to conclude that the Ole Miss football program was particularly hurt by integration. But they didn't do well before Vaught came to campus, despite segregation. It takes a truly great coach to overcome the disadvantages resulting from Mississippi's relatively small population, and Ole Miss hasn't had such a coach. The Rebels have not won the SEC since Vaught's departure.
But a few years ago, Ole Miss hired Huge Freeze, who quickly jump-started the Rebels' recruiting, and this year -- Freeze's third in Oxford -- the Rebels got off to a very hot start. They beat Alabama in early October, and were ranked number 3 in the country when they went to play LSU on October 25. But their shot at the national title was ruined by two heart-breaking losses -- 10-7 at LSU, and 35-31 at home against Auburn. Ole Miss was a banged-up football team after those two losses, and they were later blown out 30-0 at Arkansas. However, in the last game of the season, the Rebels rallied to upset Mississippi State 31-17, thus killing the Bulldogs' chance of reaching the college football playoffs. Ole Miss is currently 9-3 and number 9 in the country. If they can win today, they will finish in the AP top 10 and take the UCFC. That would be quite a season.
Ole Miss has only played for the UCFC on 11 occasions. On October 14, 1967, the Rebels beat Georgia 29-20 to take the crown, and held the title for three more games with wins over Southern Miss and Houston, and a tie against LSU. But on November 18, 1967, the Rebels were beaten 20-7 by Tennessee, and they have never regained the crown. They are 0-5 in UCFC games since 1967, and their all-time record in UCFC play is 3-7-1.
Walter Payton (Columbia, Miss.) went to Jackson State.
Jerry Rice (Crawford, Miss.) went to Mississippi Valley State.
Steve McNair (Mount Olive, Miss.) went to Alcorn State.
Brett Favre (Kiln, Miss.) went to Southern Mississippi.
My guess is that Ole Miss football would look a lot different today if guys like Brett Favre and Jerry Rice were hanging out on the sidelines in their Rebel gear.
Nevertheless, the Rebels do have one great golden era to celebrate. When Johnny Vaught took over the program before the 1947 season, the Rebels were 9th in the all-time SEC football standings. By the time he retired after the 1970 season, Ole Miss had moved up to third. Vaught had an all-time record of 190-61-12, and he won the SEC championship in 1947, 1954, 1955, 1960, 1962, and 1963. Ten of his teams finished ranked in the AP top 10, and two of them (the 1959 and 1960 teams) finished at number 2 in the AP Poll.
Vaught's departure from Ole Miss coincided with the end of segregation in the SEC. With their rebel flags and mascot, and their overall preppy image, it is easy to conclude that the Ole Miss football program was particularly hurt by integration. But they didn't do well before Vaught came to campus, despite segregation. It takes a truly great coach to overcome the disadvantages resulting from Mississippi's relatively small population, and Ole Miss hasn't had such a coach. The Rebels have not won the SEC since Vaught's departure.
But a few years ago, Ole Miss hired Huge Freeze, who quickly jump-started the Rebels' recruiting, and this year -- Freeze's third in Oxford -- the Rebels got off to a very hot start. They beat Alabama in early October, and were ranked number 3 in the country when they went to play LSU on October 25. But their shot at the national title was ruined by two heart-breaking losses -- 10-7 at LSU, and 35-31 at home against Auburn. Ole Miss was a banged-up football team after those two losses, and they were later blown out 30-0 at Arkansas. However, in the last game of the season, the Rebels rallied to upset Mississippi State 31-17, thus killing the Bulldogs' chance of reaching the college football playoffs. Ole Miss is currently 9-3 and number 9 in the country. If they can win today, they will finish in the AP top 10 and take the UCFC. That would be quite a season.
Ole Miss has only played for the UCFC on 11 occasions. On October 14, 1967, the Rebels beat Georgia 29-20 to take the crown, and held the title for three more games with wins over Southern Miss and Houston, and a tie against LSU. But on November 18, 1967, the Rebels were beaten 20-7 by Tennessee, and they have never regained the crown. They are 0-5 in UCFC games since 1967, and their all-time record in UCFC play is 3-7-1.
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Texas Christian 55 - 3 Iowa St. (Final)
As I expected, there really isn't much to say about the game itself -- Iowa State was never competitive, and Texas Christian rolled without too much effort. The big story, of course, is that Texas Christian fell from 3d in the College Football Playoff system all the way to 6th -- despite a 52-point victory. Here are my thoughts on what happened.
1. On a day when there were big-time games all over the place, ESPN Gameday went to Waco, Tex., and spent much of its show emphasizing that Baylor had beaten Texas Christian earlier in the year. There were "61>58" signs all over the place.
2. Baylor rolled over K-State without too much trouble to finish with an 8-1 record in the Big XII -- the same record as Texas Christian. Given that Baylor had beaten Texas Christian head-to-head, the playoff guys faced a P.R. nightmare if they put Texas Christian in the playoff over Baylor.
3. Meanwhile, Ohio State was pounding Wisconsin 59-0 in the Big X championship game, which meant that the playoff guys could just avoid the whole Big XII controversy by giving the fourth slot in the playoffs to Ohio State. And that's what they did.
4. By reason of their win over Texas Christian, Baylor appears to have gotten the Big XII title -- they will be in the Cotton Bowl against Michigan State, while Texas Christian has been shunted to the Peach Bowl against a 9-3 Ole Miss team.
Now I understand that the Texas Christian fans are disappointed -- and I share their disappointment; few people wanted Texas Christian to make the playoffs more than I did. But here's the thing: Texas Christian led Baylor 58-37 with 11:38 to go in the fourth quarter of their game on October 11. Here's what happened after that:
1. Baylor took four plays to score a touchdown (Texas Christian 58, Baylor 44)
2. Texas Christian went 18 yards and punted
3. Baylor took five plays to go 92 yards and score another touchdown (Texas Christian 58, Baylor 51)
4. Texas Christian went 3 and out.
5. Baylor took five plays to go 91 yards and score another touchdown (58-58)
6. Texas Christian had 4th and 3 at the Baylor 45 with 1:17 left in the game, and called timeout. Out of the timeout, they threw a terrible pass and gave the ball to Baylor.
7. Baylor quickly moved into field goal range and won the game 61-58.
That was one of the worst stretches of football I have ever seen, and I think it is absolutely fair that it cost Texas Christian a shot at the playoffs. Here's an idea, Texas Christian -- make a tackle! Hit someone! Get some first downs! Show some heart! If you had done any of those things, you would have gone undefeated and you'd be in the playoff.
Every Texas Christian fan who complains about anything relating to this season should have to watch that footage over and over until they shut up.
1. On a day when there were big-time games all over the place, ESPN Gameday went to Waco, Tex., and spent much of its show emphasizing that Baylor had beaten Texas Christian earlier in the year. There were "61>58" signs all over the place.
2. Baylor rolled over K-State without too much trouble to finish with an 8-1 record in the Big XII -- the same record as Texas Christian. Given that Baylor had beaten Texas Christian head-to-head, the playoff guys faced a P.R. nightmare if they put Texas Christian in the playoff over Baylor.
3. Meanwhile, Ohio State was pounding Wisconsin 59-0 in the Big X championship game, which meant that the playoff guys could just avoid the whole Big XII controversy by giving the fourth slot in the playoffs to Ohio State. And that's what they did.
4. By reason of their win over Texas Christian, Baylor appears to have gotten the Big XII title -- they will be in the Cotton Bowl against Michigan State, while Texas Christian has been shunted to the Peach Bowl against a 9-3 Ole Miss team.
Now I understand that the Texas Christian fans are disappointed -- and I share their disappointment; few people wanted Texas Christian to make the playoffs more than I did. But here's the thing: Texas Christian led Baylor 58-37 with 11:38 to go in the fourth quarter of their game on October 11. Here's what happened after that:
1. Baylor took four plays to score a touchdown (Texas Christian 58, Baylor 44)
2. Texas Christian went 18 yards and punted
3. Baylor took five plays to go 92 yards and score another touchdown (Texas Christian 58, Baylor 51)
4. Texas Christian went 3 and out.
5. Baylor took five plays to go 91 yards and score another touchdown (58-58)
6. Texas Christian had 4th and 3 at the Baylor 45 with 1:17 left in the game, and called timeout. Out of the timeout, they threw a terrible pass and gave the ball to Baylor.
7. Baylor quickly moved into field goal range and won the game 61-58.
That was one of the worst stretches of football I have ever seen, and I think it is absolutely fair that it cost Texas Christian a shot at the playoffs. Here's an idea, Texas Christian -- make a tackle! Hit someone! Get some first downs! Show some heart! If you had done any of those things, you would have gone undefeated and you'd be in the playoff.
Every Texas Christian fan who complains about anything relating to this season should have to watch that footage over and over until they shut up.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Texas Christian v. Iowa St.
This game should be a blowout for Texas Christian. Iowa State is 0-8 in conference and 2-9 overall. Texas Christian is at home. Texas Christian is favored by 35 points, in a game where the over-under is 69 points. That would work out to a Texas Christian victory of something like 52-17, which sounds about right.3-9
So Texas Christian should keep the UCFC. But, of course, that's not the main issue for the folks in Fort Worth today. With one game left for most conference members, here are the current standings in the Big XII (AP rankings in parentheses):
(5) Baylor: 7-1, 10-1
(4) Texas Christian: 7-1, 10-1
(9) Kansas St: 7-1, 9-2
(18) Oklahoma: 5-3, 8-3
Texas: 5-4, 6-6
W. Virginia: 5-4, 7-5
Oklahoma St: 3-5, 5-6
Texas Tech: 2-7, 4-8
Kansas: 1-8, 3-9
Iowa St: 0-8, 2-9
Baylor hosts Kansas State tonight, and so the Big XII race will likely finish with a tie between Texas Christian and the Baylor/KSU winner. If Kansas State wins, there won't be much controversy as to which Big XII team is the best -- Texas Christian dominated Kansas State when the two teams met a few weeks ago. But if Baylor wins -- and the Bears are favored by 7 points -- we will have an old-fashioned donnybrook between Texas Christian fans and Baylor fans. The pollsters and the folks who run the College Football Playoff currently have Texas Christian ranked ahead of Baylor -- even though the Bears beat the Horned Frogs 61-58 in a UCFC game earlier this season. Here's how each team has done so far (home teams listed first):
TEXAS CHRISTIAN (10-1):
Texas Christian 48 - 14 Samford
Texas Christian 30 - 7 Minnesota
Southern Methodist 0 - 56 Texas Christian
Texas Christian 37 - 33 Oklahoma
Baylor 61 - 58 Texas Christian
Texas Christian 42 - 9 Oklahoma St.
Texas Christian 82 - 27 Texas Tech
W. Virginia 30 - 31 Texas Christian
Texas Christian 41 - 20 Kansas St.
Kansas 30 - 34 Texas Christian
Texas 10 - 48 Texas Christian
BAYLOR (10-1)
Baylor 45- 0 Southern Methodist
Baylor 70 - 6 Northwestern St.
Buffalo 21 - 63 Baylor
Iowa St. 28 - 49 Baylor
Texas 7 - 28 Baylor
Baylor 61 - 58 Texas Christian
W. Virginia 41 - 27 Baylor
Baylor 60 - 14 Kansas
Oklahoma 14 - 48 Baylor
Baylor 49 - 28 Oklahoma St.
Texas Tech 46 - 48 Baylor (at Arlington, Tex.)
It is very difficult to judge between these two teams. I will say, however, that I personally came away from the Baylor/Texas Christian game convinced that the Horned Frogs were the better team, regardless of the final score.
Of course, the Playoff guys could avoid the whole Baylor/Texas Christian issue by putting Ohio State in the playoff and leaving out both Big XII champs.
We, of course, will hope that whatever happens, Texas Christian gets into the playoff -- it would be great to have the UCFC and the National Championship united once more. But it's been a crazy season so far, and nothing that happens would surprise me -- unless Iowa State wins and takes the UCFC. That would be a surprise.
So Texas Christian should keep the UCFC. But, of course, that's not the main issue for the folks in Fort Worth today. With one game left for most conference members, here are the current standings in the Big XII (AP rankings in parentheses):
(5) Baylor: 7-1, 10-1
(4) Texas Christian: 7-1, 10-1
(9) Kansas St: 7-1, 9-2
(18) Oklahoma: 5-3, 8-3
Texas: 5-4, 6-6
W. Virginia: 5-4, 7-5
Oklahoma St: 3-5, 5-6
Texas Tech: 2-7, 4-8
Kansas: 1-8, 3-9
Iowa St: 0-8, 2-9
Baylor hosts Kansas State tonight, and so the Big XII race will likely finish with a tie between Texas Christian and the Baylor/KSU winner. If Kansas State wins, there won't be much controversy as to which Big XII team is the best -- Texas Christian dominated Kansas State when the two teams met a few weeks ago. But if Baylor wins -- and the Bears are favored by 7 points -- we will have an old-fashioned donnybrook between Texas Christian fans and Baylor fans. The pollsters and the folks who run the College Football Playoff currently have Texas Christian ranked ahead of Baylor -- even though the Bears beat the Horned Frogs 61-58 in a UCFC game earlier this season. Here's how each team has done so far (home teams listed first):
TEXAS CHRISTIAN (10-1):
Texas Christian 48 - 14 Samford
Texas Christian 30 - 7 Minnesota
Southern Methodist 0 - 56 Texas Christian
Texas Christian 37 - 33 Oklahoma
Baylor 61 - 58 Texas Christian
Texas Christian 42 - 9 Oklahoma St.
Texas Christian 82 - 27 Texas Tech
W. Virginia 30 - 31 Texas Christian
Texas Christian 41 - 20 Kansas St.
Kansas 30 - 34 Texas Christian
Texas 10 - 48 Texas Christian
BAYLOR (10-1)
Baylor 45- 0 Southern Methodist
Baylor 70 - 6 Northwestern St.
Buffalo 21 - 63 Baylor
Iowa St. 28 - 49 Baylor
Texas 7 - 28 Baylor
Baylor 61 - 58 Texas Christian
W. Virginia 41 - 27 Baylor
Baylor 60 - 14 Kansas
Oklahoma 14 - 48 Baylor
Baylor 49 - 28 Oklahoma St.
Texas Tech 46 - 48 Baylor (at Arlington, Tex.)
It is very difficult to judge between these two teams. I will say, however, that I personally came away from the Baylor/Texas Christian game convinced that the Horned Frogs were the better team, regardless of the final score.
Of course, the Playoff guys could avoid the whole Baylor/Texas Christian issue by putting Ohio State in the playoff and leaving out both Big XII champs.
We, of course, will hope that whatever happens, Texas Christian gets into the playoff -- it would be great to have the UCFC and the National Championship united once more. But it's been a crazy season so far, and nothing that happens would surprise me -- unless Iowa State wins and takes the UCFC. That would be a surprise.
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Texas 10 - 48 Texas Christian (Final)
I was very, very wrong about this game -- in part because UT's good defensive effort was destroyed by turnovers, in part because Texas Christian played its best defensive game of the year, but mostly because the gap in talent between these two schools is much bigger than I realized. I do not understand how schools like Baylor and Texas Christian ended up with skill-position players who are so much faster and more talented than their peers at UT.
Charlie Strong is a solid coach, as he showed at Louisville, and his guys played hard for him today. For the first three quarters, they defended Texas Christian better than anyone I've seen all year. But the folks at UT will expect him to average close to 10 wins a year, and he can't do that unless he starts bringing in some of the speed and talent that we've seen at Baylor and Texas Christian. In the meantime, the Longhorns have lost their fourth consecutive UCFC game, and their all-time record in UCFC play falls to 40-23-3.
The Texas Christian Horned Frogs, on the other hand, had one of the greatest nights in their long football history. Not only did they humiliate the proud Longhorns -- in Austin -- but they kept the Big Gold Trophy and ran their record to 10-1 on the year. They are now 35-19-6 in UCFC play, and they picked up some style points that will help them in their efforts to reach the College Football Playoff.
One more regular-season battle for the UCFC -- next week, in Fort Worth, as the Horned Frogs take on Iowa State before what will be a very happy group of Texas Christian fans. They have waited many years for this season, and I am sure they are enjoying.
Charlie Strong is a solid coach, as he showed at Louisville, and his guys played hard for him today. For the first three quarters, they defended Texas Christian better than anyone I've seen all year. But the folks at UT will expect him to average close to 10 wins a year, and he can't do that unless he starts bringing in some of the speed and talent that we've seen at Baylor and Texas Christian. In the meantime, the Longhorns have lost their fourth consecutive UCFC game, and their all-time record in UCFC play falls to 40-23-3.
The Texas Christian Horned Frogs, on the other hand, had one of the greatest nights in their long football history. Not only did they humiliate the proud Longhorns -- in Austin -- but they kept the Big Gold Trophy and ran their record to 10-1 on the year. They are now 35-19-6 in UCFC play, and they picked up some style points that will help them in their efforts to reach the College Football Playoff.
One more regular-season battle for the UCFC -- next week, in Fort Worth, as the Horned Frogs take on Iowa State before what will be a very happy group of Texas Christian fans. They have waited many years for this season, and I am sure they are enjoying.
Texas 10 - 48 Texas Christian (2:19 left in 4th Quarter)
Well, the roof has really caved in on Texas. Tyrone Swoops, trying to throw a little out pass, watches in horror as his pass was intercepted by Josh Carraway, a sophomore defensive end from Marcus H.S. in Flower Mound, Tex. Carraway is listed at 6' 4", 250 pounds, but he has no trouble running 33 yards for Texas Christian's fourth touchdown of the fourth quarter. He also just made a winner of all the folks who took the over in this game.
Texas 10 - 41 Texas Christian (2:53 left in 4th Quarter)
Texas Christian, seeking to put on an impressive show for the Playoff Crowd, takes advantage of an exhausted and discouraged UT defense, driving straight down the field with little opposition. Aaron Green of San Antonio, Tex. dashes in from five yards out for the score.
Texas 10 - 34 Texas Christian (5:19 left in 4th Quarter)
Once again, UT's offense can't do very much, and the Longhorns punt to the Texas Christian 40.
Texas 10 - 34 Texas Christian (7:01 left in 4th Quarter)
Well, now it's just getting sad for UT. The Longhorns fumble a punt -- their fifth turnover of the game -- and Texas Christian takes over at the UT 19. A few plays later, Trevone Boykin dashes in from 10 yards out to give Texas Christian a 24-point lead.
Texas 10 - 27 Texas Christian (10:52 left in 4th Quarter)
UT's offense continues to struggle. The Longhorns don't get very far before they are forced to punt to the Texas Christian 24.
Texas 10 - 27 Texas Christian (12:49 left in 4th Quarter)
Texas Christian takes the kickoff, doesn't do much with the ball, and punts to the UT 19.
Texas 10 - 27 Texas Christian (14:04 left in 4th Quarter)
Just as Texas Christian appeared to have this game well in hand, the Horned Frogs lose track of UT wide receiver Armanti Foreman of Texas City H.S. in Texas City, Tex. That's a mistake, as Foreman takes a little out pass and dashes 73 yards to give UT it's first touchdown of the game. Texas Christian has generally avoided this type of mistake tonight, but not this time.
Texas 3 - 27 Texas Christian (14:54 left in 4th Quarter)
To someone like me, who vividly remembers how UT used to dominate schools like Texas Christian for decades at a time, the most striking thing about this game is that Texas Christian appears to have much better athletes than the Longhorns. Faced once again with a hard-nosed UT defense that has frustrated them for most of the night, the Horned Frogs just hurl a jump-ball pass into the end zone, where Josh Doctson out-jumps the UT defensive back for a touchdown.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (24 seconds left in 3d Quarter)
I'm sure he's doing his best, but UT quarterback Tyrone Swoopes just threw his third interception of the game -- a terrible pass that was aimed directly at Paul Dawson, a Texas Christian linebacker from Dallas. Dawson did not fumble the ball, and the Horned Frogs will take over on the UT 17.
Here's Swoopes's passing numbers so far: 16-29, 105 yards, 0 TD's, 3 INT's.
And, of course, he also had a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. That is a rough day at the office.
Here's Swoopes's passing numbers so far: 16-29, 105 yards, 0 TD's, 3 INT's.
And, of course, he also had a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. That is a rough day at the office.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (36 seconds left in 3d Quarter)
Texas Christian can't do anything, and they punt to the Texas 17.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (1:17 left in 3d Quarter)
UT's offense again can't do much, and the Longhorns punt to the 50.
There is a fair amount of bitterness on Twitter from UT fans who are not only having to watch their team lose to Texas Christian, but who are missing their old rivalry with Texas A & M.
There is a fair amount of bitterness on Twitter from UT fans who are not only having to watch their team lose to Texas Christian, but who are missing their old rivalry with Texas A & M.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (3:20 left in 3d Quarter)
Texas Christian drives into UT territory, but throws a pass that is INTERCEPTED by Dylan Haines of Lago Vista H.S. in Lago Vista, Tex. The Longhorns will start from their own 2.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (4:22 left in 3d Quarter)
Texas can't do anything with its latest possession, and the Longhorns punt to the Texas Christian 34. UT has had no answer for the Texas Christian defense tonight.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (6:57 left in 3d Quarter)
Well, kind of a wacky play here. Tyrone Swoopes, the UT quarterback, throws a pass down the middle that is INTERCEPTED by Sam Carter. Carter, with his second interception of the game, races down to the UT 18, where he FUMBLES, and the ball is recovered by -- Swoopes! First down, Texas.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (10:36 left in 3d Quarter)
Texas Christian takes the opening kickoff, starts at its own 25, and moves into Texas territory before the drive stalls. The Horned Frogs then punt down to the UT 3. Texas Christian didn't score, but they did use up almost five minutes of precious time, and they will be happy about that.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (Halftime)
The half ends with Tyrone Swoopes, the Texas quarterback, running from the Texas Christian 43 to the Texas Christian 16.
On the whole, this was a very disappointing half for UT. Their defense played well, but their offense has really struggled. Texas Christian, on the other hand, has been smart and opportunistic, and their defense looks better than I've seen it look all year. It's hard to believe these guys gave up 30 points to Kansas.
On Twitter, someone noted that Texas hasn't lost to both Baylor and Texas Christian at home since 1933. If things don't change soon, it's going to happen this year.
On the whole, this was a very disappointing half for UT. Their defense played well, but their offense has really struggled. Texas Christian, on the other hand, has been smart and opportunistic, and their defense looks better than I've seen it look all year. It's hard to believe these guys gave up 30 points to Kansas.
On Twitter, someone noted that Texas hasn't lost to both Baylor and Texas Christian at home since 1933. If things don't change soon, it's going to happen this year.
Texas 3 - 20 Texas Christian (1:34 left in 2d Quarter)
Apparently, Texas Christian's time out was more effective than Texas's time out, because on 3d and Goal from the Texas 4, Texas Christian quarterback Trevone Boykin (of West Mesquite H.S. in Dallas) finds David Porter (of DeSoto H.S. in DeSoto, Tex.) in the back of the end zone for the first offensive touchdown of this game.
Normally, we don't put much stake in 17-point leads when it comes to Big XII football. But given the struggles UT has had on offense, this margin looks pretty big right now.
Normally, we don't put much stake in 17-point leads when it comes to Big XII football. But given the struggles UT has had on offense, this margin looks pretty big right now.
Texas 3 - 13 Texas Christian (1:39 left in 2d Quarter)
The Texas Christian offense finally made a big play, with Josh Doctson of Mansfield, Tex. making a spectacular leaping catch to give the Horned Frogs a 1st and Goal at the Texas 6. But two subsequent plays didn't get very far, and the Frogs now face a 3d and Goal at the 4. The Frogs called time to set up a play, and now the Longhorns have called time to set their defense.
Texas 3 - 13 Texas Christian (4:59 left in 2d Quarter)
UT's offense goes three-and-out, and the Longhorns punt to the Texas Christian 33.
Texas 3 - 13 Texas Christian (6:03 left in 2d Quarter)
In three years of watching Big XII football for purposes of this blog, UT is playing the best defense I can remember seeing. Once again, they hold Texas Christian without a first down, and the Horned Frogs punt to the UT 23.
Texas 3 - 13 Texas Christian (7:56 left in 2d Quarter)
For the first time tonight, UT's offense showed some life. The Longhorns drove into Horned Frog territory, and almost made a first down at the Texas Christian 25. After a lengthy officials' review, it was decided that the Longhorns had 4th and inches. So they pull the players back, and the officials place the ball exactly a few inches from the first down. Then the teams line up. And then -- after almost five minutes of waiting for this huge play -- Texas jumps offside. So the Longhorns settle for a field goal by Nick Rose of Highland Park H.S. in Dallas. But at least they're on the board.
Texas 0 - 13 Texas Christian (10:44 left in 2d Quarter)
Texas Christian made it to the UT 44, but that Longhorn defense holds again. Texas Christian's punt is short and the Horned Frogs interfered with a UT fair catch, so the Longhorns will start on their own 35.
Texas 0 - 13 Texas Christian (14:02 left in 2d Quarter)
UT's offense continues to struggle. The Longhorns take the kickoff, cannot advance past their own 39, and punt to the Texas Christian 20. If the Horned Frogs can get anything going on offense, they can put Texas in a very deep hole.
Texas 0 - 13 Texas Christian (20 seconds left in 1st Quarter)
For the first time today, UT got a drive going, moving the ball down to the Texas Christian 39. But a big hit by the Texas Christian defense left the Longhorns with a 3d and 20 from the Texas Christian 49. Rolling out to his left, UT quarterback Swoopes was hit and FUMBLED. The fumble was recovered by Terrell Lathan, a junior defensive tackle from West Monroe H.S. in Chatham, La. He picked up the ball and rumbled all the way to the end zone for a TOUCHDOWN.
What a terrible break for the Longhorns, who have played so well on defense, and who are getting killed by turnovers and poor special teams play.
By the way, this game is the second consecutive UCFC match-up to take place in a Memorial Stadium. Both Kansas and Texas play in stadiums that were built just after World War I, and were dedicated to students who died in that war. It's easy to forget what a big deal World War I was over here. We are still feeling the effects of the 50,000 or so Americans who died in Vietnam over the course of 12 years. But in World War I, the United States lost something like 170,000 soldiers in less than two years. No wonder they wanted to remember it.
What a terrible break for the Longhorns, who have played so well on defense, and who are getting killed by turnovers and poor special teams play.
By the way, this game is the second consecutive UCFC match-up to take place in a Memorial Stadium. Both Kansas and Texas play in stadiums that were built just after World War I, and were dedicated to students who died in that war. It's easy to forget what a big deal World War I was over here. We are still feeling the effects of the 50,000 or so Americans who died in Vietnam over the course of 12 years. But in World War I, the United States lost something like 170,000 soldiers in less than two years. No wonder they wanted to remember it.
Texas 0 - 6 Texas Christian (4:25 left in 1st Quarter)
Another great stand by the UT defense, which stops Texas Christian at the 11 and forces them to settle for another field goal.
The Horned Frogs have had TWO possessions where they started at the UT 25, and they couldn't make a touchdown either time.
Texas 0 - 3 Texas Christian (6:41 left in 1st Quarter)
Facing 3d and 8 from his own 11, UT quarterback Tyrone Swoopes throws a terrible pass straight down the middle of the field, where it is INTERCEPTED by safety Sam Carter of Alief Hastings H.S. in New Orleans. The Horned Frogs will start from the Texas 25.
Texas 0 - 3 Texas Christian (7;29 left in 1st Quarter)
The Horned Frogs get to the UT 38, but can get no further, so they punt down to the Texas 9.
Texas 0 - 3 Texas Christian (10:48 left in 1st Quarter)
Texas Christian forces another three-and-out. The Horned Frogs will start from their own 45.
Texas 0 - 3 Texas Christian (12:40 left in 1st Quarter)
Good news and bad news for the Horned Frogs. The good news is that they stopped UT three-and-out on the opening drive of the game, and then ran the ensuing punt all the way back to the Longhorn 25. The bad news is that Texas Christian's high-powered offense went only two yards in three plays, and that the Horned Frogs were forced to settle for a field goal by Jaden Oberkrom of Martin H.S. in Arlington, Tex.
By the way, they just posted that this is the first time since 1958 where the Horned Frogs came into this game ranked while the Longhorns were unranked. Texas Christian won the game that year, 22-8.
By the way, they just posted that this is the first time since 1958 where the Horned Frogs came into this game ranked while the Longhorns were unranked. Texas Christian won the game that year, 22-8.
Texas 0 - 0 Texas Christian (15 minutes left in 1st Quarter)
OK, now here's the situation:
If Texas Christian wins this game, they will almost certainly beat Iowa State at home next week and then take the UCFC into Bowl Season.
If Texas wins this game, they will take the UCFC into Bowl Season, because this is the Longhorns' final regular-season game of the year.
Uniform watch: the Big XII is, for the most part, a conference of second-tier programs with second-tier uniforms -- I'm looking at you, Baylor. The University of Texas, however, is a first-tier program with one of the best uniforms in all of sports. They have gone with a shiny Longhorn logo, but other than that, they look great. Texas Christian is wearing shiny purple helmets with the TCU/Horned Frog logo, white jerseys with purple camouflage numerals and black sleeves, and white pants. They look like how someone in, say, 1981, would have imagined a futuristic team looking.
If Texas Christian wins this game, they will almost certainly beat Iowa State at home next week and then take the UCFC into Bowl Season.
If Texas wins this game, they will take the UCFC into Bowl Season, because this is the Longhorns' final regular-season game of the year.
Uniform watch: the Big XII is, for the most part, a conference of second-tier programs with second-tier uniforms -- I'm looking at you, Baylor. The University of Texas, however, is a first-tier program with one of the best uniforms in all of sports. They have gone with a shiny Longhorn logo, but other than that, they look great. Texas Christian is wearing shiny purple helmets with the TCU/Horned Frog logo, white jerseys with purple camouflage numerals and black sleeves, and white pants. They look like how someone in, say, 1981, would have imagined a futuristic team looking.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Texas v. Texas Christian
From 1914 to 1996, the Southwest Conference was one of the best-known and most-beloved sports leagues in America. I have never met a college football fan from Texas who didn't miss it. Some of my finest memories as a college football fan involve the old three-way battles between Texas, Arkansas, and Texas A & M back when they were all in the SWC.
The University of Texas led the way in founding the SWC in 1914, and Texas Christian joined the league in 1923. For decades thereafter, Texas and Texas Christian competed against each other -- and the other SWC members -- in all sports. And then, in the early 1990's, it all started to fall apart. Arkansas left in 1992. A few years later, the conference was destroyed when Texas, Texas A & M, Texas Tech, and Baylor decided to join the old Big 8, thus creating the Big XII. The remaining members of the SWC, including Texas Christian, appeared to have been sent into a permanent limbo, perpetually excluded from big-time college football.
But the Big XII made much less sense in real life than it did on paper. The old Big 8 had a solid core of Midwestern common sense -- enough to balance Barry Switzer, Billy Tubbs, and other hard-charging types at Oklahoma. The old SWC had a delicate balance whereby the other eight schools kept a close eye on UT -- and each other -- thus making sure that no one school got too powerful. And so the Big 8 and the SWC survived for many decades. However, the earnest burghers in places like Nebraska and Kansas were a terrible fit with the high-rollers from Texas.
As time went on, and the demands of the Texans became more and more intrusive, the old Big 8 types started heading for the exits. Colorado -- desperate to leave behind its plainer Big 8 brethren for the bright lights of Cali -- decamped for the Pac-12. Nebraska -- fed up with a Texas culture it neither understood nor respected -- joined its fellow burghers in the Big 10. Missouri -- terrified of being abandoned by the Texans, but unable to get into the Big 10 -- seized an offer to join the SEC, even though it will never fit in there. Most dramatically of all, Texas A&M, tired of a century's worth of jokes at its expense by the people in Austin, and recognizing a once-in-a-lifetime chance to gain a recruiting advantage over the Longhorns, also joined the SEC, where it was a perfect fit.
Suddenly UT was in the position of T.D. Fitzgerald (from the great children's book The Great Brain), who occasionally found that his brilliant but selfish antics left him without playmates. And so, in 2012, the lordly Longhorns were forced to open their playpen to the very Texas Christian Horned Frogs they had scorned back in 1996. Texas leads the all-time series 62-21-1. Texas beat Texas Christian 24 times in a row from 1968 to 1991, including wins by scores of 58-0, 69-7, and 81-16. Texas had left Texas Christian for dead -- they only played the Horned Frogs once from 1995 to 2012 -- but they had to take them back. (I'm still hoping that the next two members in the Big XII are Southern Methodist and Rice.)
The Horned Frogs beat Texas 20-13 in 2012, their first year in the Big XII, but the Longhorns won 30-7 last year. And now, remarkably, the Longhorns are in position to spoil one of the greatest seasons in Texas Christian history. Here are the current standings in the Big XII (AP rankings in parentheses):
(5) Baylor: 6-1, 9-1
(6) Texas Christian: 6-1, 9-1
(11) Kansas St: 6-1, 8-2
(20) Oklahoma: 5-3, 8-3
Texas: 5-3, 6-5
W. Virginia: 4-4, 6-5
Oklahoma St: 3-5, 5-6
Texas Tech: 2-6, 4-7
Kansas: 1-7, 3-8
Iowa St: 0-7, 2-8
If Texas Christian can win this game, the Horned Frogs will only need to beat Iowa State in Fort Worth to finish 8-1 in the Big XII and 11-1 overall. Such an outcome would guarantee Texas Christian a share of the Big XII title, and would leave open the possibility that Texas Christian -- a school that once lost to Texas 24 years in a row -- would appear in the first college football playoff. Plus, of course, they would keep the UCFC. On the other hand, Texas can take it all away -- the Big XII title, the UCFC, the chance at the national championship -- with a win in Austin on Thanksgiving night.
If I had to guess, I would pick the Longhorns to win this game. It hasn't been an easy year for first-year coach Charlie Strong, who has tried to bring an old-fashioned work ethic to UT. His second game was an embarrassing 41-7 loss to BYU, and after a 23-0 loss at Kansas State on October 25, his Longhorns had a record of only 3-5. But since then, they have played much better. They beat Texas Tech 34-13, they hammered West Virginia 33-16, and they blew out Oklahoma State 28-7. This game is UT's last of the regular season, they are at home, and they have a great chance to show the rest of the country that Texas football is on the way back. Meanwhile, the Horned Frogs have had their problems on the road -- they lost 61-58 at Baylor, and they barely survived games at West Virginia (31-30) and Kansas (34-30). Of course, Texas Christian has its back to the wall, and they may play their best game of the year. But I don't see them playing well enough to beat Texas.
Of course, I could be wrong. Vegas has Texas Christian as a 6 1/2 point favorite over the Longhorns, with an over-under of 55. That would work out to something like a 31-24 win for the Frogs. Whoever wins, I expect a very entertaining game -- one worthy of a great old rivalry that carries the memory of a great old conference.
The University of Texas led the way in founding the SWC in 1914, and Texas Christian joined the league in 1923. For decades thereafter, Texas and Texas Christian competed against each other -- and the other SWC members -- in all sports. And then, in the early 1990's, it all started to fall apart. Arkansas left in 1992. A few years later, the conference was destroyed when Texas, Texas A & M, Texas Tech, and Baylor decided to join the old Big 8, thus creating the Big XII. The remaining members of the SWC, including Texas Christian, appeared to have been sent into a permanent limbo, perpetually excluded from big-time college football.
But the Big XII made much less sense in real life than it did on paper. The old Big 8 had a solid core of Midwestern common sense -- enough to balance Barry Switzer, Billy Tubbs, and other hard-charging types at Oklahoma. The old SWC had a delicate balance whereby the other eight schools kept a close eye on UT -- and each other -- thus making sure that no one school got too powerful. And so the Big 8 and the SWC survived for many decades. However, the earnest burghers in places like Nebraska and Kansas were a terrible fit with the high-rollers from Texas.
As time went on, and the demands of the Texans became more and more intrusive, the old Big 8 types started heading for the exits. Colorado -- desperate to leave behind its plainer Big 8 brethren for the bright lights of Cali -- decamped for the Pac-12. Nebraska -- fed up with a Texas culture it neither understood nor respected -- joined its fellow burghers in the Big 10. Missouri -- terrified of being abandoned by the Texans, but unable to get into the Big 10 -- seized an offer to join the SEC, even though it will never fit in there. Most dramatically of all, Texas A&M, tired of a century's worth of jokes at its expense by the people in Austin, and recognizing a once-in-a-lifetime chance to gain a recruiting advantage over the Longhorns, also joined the SEC, where it was a perfect fit.
Suddenly UT was in the position of T.D. Fitzgerald (from the great children's book The Great Brain), who occasionally found that his brilliant but selfish antics left him without playmates. And so, in 2012, the lordly Longhorns were forced to open their playpen to the very Texas Christian Horned Frogs they had scorned back in 1996. Texas leads the all-time series 62-21-1. Texas beat Texas Christian 24 times in a row from 1968 to 1991, including wins by scores of 58-0, 69-7, and 81-16. Texas had left Texas Christian for dead -- they only played the Horned Frogs once from 1995 to 2012 -- but they had to take them back. (I'm still hoping that the next two members in the Big XII are Southern Methodist and Rice.)
The Horned Frogs beat Texas 20-13 in 2012, their first year in the Big XII, but the Longhorns won 30-7 last year. And now, remarkably, the Longhorns are in position to spoil one of the greatest seasons in Texas Christian history. Here are the current standings in the Big XII (AP rankings in parentheses):
(5) Baylor: 6-1, 9-1
(6) Texas Christian: 6-1, 9-1
(11) Kansas St: 6-1, 8-2
(20) Oklahoma: 5-3, 8-3
Texas: 5-3, 6-5
W. Virginia: 4-4, 6-5
Oklahoma St: 3-5, 5-6
Texas Tech: 2-6, 4-7
Kansas: 1-7, 3-8
Iowa St: 0-7, 2-8
If Texas Christian can win this game, the Horned Frogs will only need to beat Iowa State in Fort Worth to finish 8-1 in the Big XII and 11-1 overall. Such an outcome would guarantee Texas Christian a share of the Big XII title, and would leave open the possibility that Texas Christian -- a school that once lost to Texas 24 years in a row -- would appear in the first college football playoff. Plus, of course, they would keep the UCFC. On the other hand, Texas can take it all away -- the Big XII title, the UCFC, the chance at the national championship -- with a win in Austin on Thanksgiving night.
If I had to guess, I would pick the Longhorns to win this game. It hasn't been an easy year for first-year coach Charlie Strong, who has tried to bring an old-fashioned work ethic to UT. His second game was an embarrassing 41-7 loss to BYU, and after a 23-0 loss at Kansas State on October 25, his Longhorns had a record of only 3-5. But since then, they have played much better. They beat Texas Tech 34-13, they hammered West Virginia 33-16, and they blew out Oklahoma State 28-7. This game is UT's last of the regular season, they are at home, and they have a great chance to show the rest of the country that Texas football is on the way back. Meanwhile, the Horned Frogs have had their problems on the road -- they lost 61-58 at Baylor, and they barely survived games at West Virginia (31-30) and Kansas (34-30). Of course, Texas Christian has its back to the wall, and they may play their best game of the year. But I don't see them playing well enough to beat Texas.
Of course, I could be wrong. Vegas has Texas Christian as a 6 1/2 point favorite over the Longhorns, with an over-under of 55. That would work out to something like a 31-24 win for the Frogs. Whoever wins, I expect a very entertaining game -- one worthy of a great old rivalry that carries the memory of a great old conference.
Monday, November 17, 2014
Kansas 30 - 34 Texas Christian (Final)
Texas Christian needed one first down to run out the clock, and they got it. So the Horned Frogs survive a surprisingly difficult challenge from Kansas, and they HOLD THE UCFC for another week.
Kansas's all-time record in UCFC competition falls to 1-7, and the Jayhawks will have to hope that the Big Gold Trophy is in the Big XII next year. Meanwhile, Texas Christian's record in UCFC play is now 34-19-6. If the Horned Frogs can win one more UCFC match-up, they will move into a tie for ninth place in total UCFC victories with Miami (Florida) and Army.
The next UCFC match-up will be in Austin, Tex. on Thanksgiving, as the Texas Christian Horned Frogs will take on their ancient rivals from the University of Texas. That will be a big game.
Kansas's all-time record in UCFC competition falls to 1-7, and the Jayhawks will have to hope that the Big Gold Trophy is in the Big XII next year. Meanwhile, Texas Christian's record in UCFC play is now 34-19-6. If the Horned Frogs can win one more UCFC match-up, they will move into a tie for ninth place in total UCFC victories with Miami (Florida) and Army.
The next UCFC match-up will be in Austin, Tex. on Thanksgiving, as the Texas Christian Horned Frogs will take on their ancient rivals from the University of Texas. That will be a big game.
Kansas 30 - 34 Texas Christian (3:26 left in 4th Quarter)
Once again, the Frog defense comes up big. Facing 3d and 10 from the KU 25, Jayhawk quarterback Michael Cummings hurls a long pass that is INTERCEPTED by Chris Hackett of John Tyler H.S. in Tyler, Tex. Hackett scampers from the Texas Christian 49 to the Kansas 23, and the Frogs will take over there.
Kansas 30 - 34 Texas Christian (4:09 left in 4th Quarter)
Texas Christian gets a few field goals and uses up over three minutes of time, but the drive stalls at the KU 40, and the Frogs punt to the KU 11.
Kansas 30 - 34 Texas Christian (7:42 left in 4th Quarter)
A great stand by the Texas Christian defense. Here's what happened:
1-G (Texas Christian 10): Corey Avery runs for 5 yards
2-G (Texas Christian 5): Michael Cummings pass incomplete
3-G (Texas Christian 5): Tony Pierson is hit for a 1-yard loss
4-G (Texas Christian 6): Matthew Wyman kicks a 23-yard field goal
1-G (Texas Christian 10): Corey Avery runs for 5 yards
2-G (Texas Christian 5): Michael Cummings pass incomplete
3-G (Texas Christian 5): Tony Pierson is hit for a 1-yard loss
4-G (Texas Christian 6): Matthew Wyman kicks a 23-yard field goal
Kansas 27 - 34 Texas Christian (9:07 left in 4th Quarter)
But on 1st and 10 from the Texas Christian 12, Trevorris Johnson FUMBLES! KU recovers the ball at the Texas Christian 10, and the Jayhawks have a golden chance to tie the game.
Kansas 27 - 34 Texas Christian (9:14 left in 4th Quarter)
The Texas Christian continues to play tough. KU gets to its own 45, but cannot go any further, and they punt to the Texas Christian 12.
Kansas 27 - 34 Texas Christian (12:08 left in 4th Quarter)
The Frogs quickly get down to the KU 7, but they can go no further and they settle for a Jaden Oberkrom field goal.
Kansas 27 - 31 Texas Christian (4 seconds left in 4th Quarter)
Now the Frogs are all over Kansas. The Jayhawks go three and out again, and are forced to punt. Texas Christian will start from its own 27.
Kansas 27 - 31 Texas Christian (2:38 left in 3d Quarter)
And boom goes the dynamite! KU goes three and out, and punts the ball to Cameron Echols-Luper (of Auburn H.S. in Auburn, Ala.). He takes the ball and goes 69 YARDS FOR A TOUCHDOWN. THE FROGS HAVE RE-GAINED THE LEAD!
Kansas 27 - 24 Texas Christian (3:48 left in 3d Quarter)
Texas Christian, with its season on the line, zips down the field: 80 yards in 8 plays. Aaron Green scampers into the end zone from 24 yards out, and the Frogs now trail by only 3.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Kansas 27 - 17 Texas Christian (6:34 left in 3d Quarter)
The Texas Christian defense holds, and Kansas punts into the end zone.
I hate to leave at this dramatic point in the proceedings, but I have a prior commitment tonight. I apologize to all UCFC fans, but we will have a wrap-up summarizing either a Texas Christian comeback or a huge KU upset.
I hate to leave at this dramatic point in the proceedings, but I have a prior commitment tonight. I apologize to all UCFC fans, but we will have a wrap-up summarizing either a Texas Christian comeback or a huge KU upset.
Kansas 27 - 17 Texas Christian (8:09 left in 3d Quarter)
AND NOW TEXAS CHRISTIAN HAS FUMBLED THE KICKOFF. It was an excellent return until the fumble, but KU has the ball at the Texas Christian 45.
Kansas 27 - 17 Texas Christian (8:27 left in 3d Quarter)
This may not be Texas Christian's day. KU quarterback Cummings throws an out pattern to Nigel King (a transfer from Maryland). A Texas Christian defensive back tips the ball up in the air -- AND KING CATCHES IT AND RUNS UNTOUCHED INTO THE END ZONE. A 78 YARD TOUCHDOWN PASS. Suddenly the Jayhawks have recovered their 10 point lead.
Kansas 20 - 17 Texas Christian (8:47 left in 3d Quarter)
That was an effective timeout. On the first play after the timeout, Aaron Green (of San Antonio, Tex.) takes a pitch-out and dashes into the end zone. An excellent drive by the Horned Frogs.
Kansas 20 - 10 Texas Christian (8:51 left in 3d Quarter)
Texas Christian, playing with the energy born of desperation, has driven down to the KU 3, where the Horned Frogs have first and goal. Texas Christian has called time.
Kansas 20 - 10 Texas Christian (12:02 left in 3d Quarter)
KU goes to the length of the field to expand its lead. The key play in the drive was a 67-yard catch and run by Jimmay Mundine of Denison H.S. in Denison, Tex. The scoring play was a 1-yard plunge by QB Michael Cummings of Kileen H.S. in Kileen, Tex.
According to Google, the temperature in Lawrence, Kan. is 32 degrees -- but right now it feels much colder to Texas Christian, which is in real danger of losing the UCFC, their chance at a Big XII title, and their chance at the National Championship -- all to a team that is 1-5 in Big XII play.
According to Google, the temperature in Lawrence, Kan. is 32 degrees -- but right now it feels much colder to Texas Christian, which is in real danger of losing the UCFC, their chance at a Big XII title, and their chance at the National Championship -- all to a team that is 1-5 in Big XII play.
Kansas 13 - 10 Texas Christian (14:50 left in 3d Quarter)
KU receives the kickoff to start the second half, and the Jayhawks will start their offense from their own 18.
Uniform watch: Texas Christian is in white helmets with the TCU horned frog logo, white jerseys with black camouflage numbers, and white pants. KU is wearing royal blue helmets with the KU Jayhawk logo, blue jerseys with numbers in that unique Kansas font, and blue pants.
Uniform watch: Texas Christian is in white helmets with the TCU horned frog logo, white jerseys with black camouflage numbers, and white pants. KU is wearing royal blue helmets with the KU Jayhawk logo, blue jerseys with numbers in that unique Kansas font, and blue pants.
Kansas 13 - 10 Texas Christian (Halftime)
Texas Christian can't do anything with the ball, and the half comes to an end. For the first time since 2008, Kansas leads a ranked opponent at the half. With that Big Gold Trophy on the premises, the Jayhawks are putting on an inspired performance.
For the record, if KU does win this game, then the next UCFC match-up would take place on November 22, when the Jayhawks visit Oklahoma.
For the record, if KU does win this game, then the next UCFC match-up would take place on November 22, when the Jayhawks visit Oklahoma.
Kansas 13 - 10 Texas Christian (1:07 left in 2d Quarter)
There are huge swaths of empty seats at Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, Kan. -- apparently most of the Jayhawk fans didn't have high hopes for this game either. The fans who are there just saw a KU drive end in a punt that will allow Texas Christian to start from its own 18.
Kansas 13 - 10 Texas Christian (2:08 left in 2d Quarter)
Well, this is surprising. Kansas's defense has been very tough so far, and the Jayhawks have allowed only one touchdown in this game. Texas Christian scored a TD on its first possession of the game, and appeared to be off to the races. But since then, the Horned Frogs have managed only a single field goal, while KU has posted two touchdowns (with one missed extra point).
If this result were to hold, it would be one of the biggest upsets -- by far -- in UCFC history.
If this result were to hold, it would be one of the biggest upsets -- by far -- in UCFC history.
Kansas v. Texas Christian
I apologize, UCFC fans, but I really thought this game kicked off at 6:30 Central Time. Anyway, here are the current standings in the Big XII (AP rankings in parentheses):
(6) Baylor: 5-1, 8-1
(5) Texas Christian: 5-1, 8-1
(13) Kansas St: 5-1, 7-2
Texas: 4-3, 5-5
W. Virginia: 4-3, 6-4
Oklahoma: 3-3, 6-3
Oklahoma St: 3-3, 5-4
Texas Tech: 1-5, 3-6
Kansas: 1-5, 3-6
Iowa St: 0-6, 2-7
In the race for the Big XII Title, Texas Christian's advantage is that they have already played Baylor and Kansas State. Here are their last three games (home games in all caps):
11/15: at Kansas
11/27: at Texas
12/6: IOWA STATE
On the other hand, Baylor's advantage is that they beat Texas Christian 61-58, and they have K-State at home. Here's what they have left:
11/22: OKLAHOMA ST.
11/29: Texas Tech (Arlington, Tex.)
12/6: KANSAS ST.
Tex
Kansas State has no advantages -- their remaining schedule includes two difficult games:
11/20: at W. Virginia
11/29: KANSAS
12/6: at Baylor
Based on these games, it seems likely that Baylor will finish 8-1 and win the Big XII Championship (and a slot in the NCAA playoffs) based on their win over Texas Christian.
Nevertheless, Texas Christian still has a lot to play for. If Baylor stumbles, and Texas Christian wins out, then the Horned Frogs will make the playoffs. There's even a distant possibility that both Baylor and Texas Christian could get in. And no matter what happens, an 11-1 season, a tie for first place in the Big XII, and the UCFC are nothing to sneeze at.
Meanwhile, Kansas fans are probably much more interested in their basketball game with Kentucky on Tuesday night than in their shot at the Big Gold Trophy. The Jayhawks lost their first five Big XII games before beating Iowa State last Saturday, and they still have to play Texas Christian, Oklahoma, and Kansas State. KU is a 28-point underdog in a game where the over-under is 55 1/2 points. That would work out to a 42-14 Horned Frog victory.
For most of football history, Texas Christian and Kansas were in different conferences, so they have only a limited history with each other. The Horned Frogs lead the all-time series 18-8-4, and they have won both match-ups since Texas Christian joined the Big XII.
(6) Baylor: 5-1, 8-1
(5) Texas Christian: 5-1, 8-1
(13) Kansas St: 5-1, 7-2
Texas: 4-3, 5-5
W. Virginia: 4-3, 6-4
Oklahoma: 3-3, 6-3
Oklahoma St: 3-3, 5-4
Texas Tech: 1-5, 3-6
Kansas: 1-5, 3-6
Iowa St: 0-6, 2-7
In the race for the Big XII Title, Texas Christian's advantage is that they have already played Baylor and Kansas State. Here are their last three games (home games in all caps):
11/15: at Kansas
11/27: at Texas
12/6: IOWA STATE
On the other hand, Baylor's advantage is that they beat Texas Christian 61-58, and they have K-State at home. Here's what they have left:
11/22: OKLAHOMA ST.
11/29: Texas Tech (Arlington, Tex.)
12/6: KANSAS ST.
Tex
Kansas State has no advantages -- their remaining schedule includes two difficult games:
11/20: at W. Virginia
11/29: KANSAS
12/6: at Baylor
Based on these games, it seems likely that Baylor will finish 8-1 and win the Big XII Championship (and a slot in the NCAA playoffs) based on their win over Texas Christian.
Nevertheless, Texas Christian still has a lot to play for. If Baylor stumbles, and Texas Christian wins out, then the Horned Frogs will make the playoffs. There's even a distant possibility that both Baylor and Texas Christian could get in. And no matter what happens, an 11-1 season, a tie for first place in the Big XII, and the UCFC are nothing to sneeze at.
Meanwhile, Kansas fans are probably much more interested in their basketball game with Kentucky on Tuesday night than in their shot at the Big Gold Trophy. The Jayhawks lost their first five Big XII games before beating Iowa State last Saturday, and they still have to play Texas Christian, Oklahoma, and Kansas State. KU is a 28-point underdog in a game where the over-under is 55 1/2 points. That would work out to a 42-14 Horned Frog victory.
For most of football history, Texas Christian and Kansas were in different conferences, so they have only a limited history with each other. The Horned Frogs lead the all-time series 18-8-4, and they have won both match-ups since Texas Christian joined the Big XII.
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Texas Christian 41 - 20 Kansas St. (Final)
I apologize for all you Texas Christian fans who were looking forward to a detailed live-blog of this game. But there were lots of other things going on tonight. We had the season finale of Doctor Who, we had a great Alabama/LSU game that went to overtime, we had a high-scoring Big XII-style shootout between Ohio State and Michigan State. Meanwhile, for the first time since September, we had a UCFC game that was really lopsided. Texas Christian led 17-7 at the half, and 31-14 after three quarters, and their victory was never seriously in doubt. K-State had no response for the Texas Christian running game, as the Frogs ran for 334 yards to only 28 for the Wildcats. Texas Christian finished with 553 total net yards, compared to 404 for the Wildcats. It was that kind of game.
This was the sixth appearance by K-State in the UCFC in the last three seasons, and the Wildcats are 3-3 in those games -- having lost their last three appearances in a row. Their overall record in UCFC play falls to 3-9. They will probably have to hope that the title stays in the Big XII in order to get another shot next year.
As for Texas Christian, they are also 3-3 in UCFC play over the last three seasons, but they are 3-1 this year and 33-19-6 all-time. They have now passed Oklahoma and moved into 11th place on the list of all-time UCFC victories. Perhaps even more importantly, they have made it through the most difficult stretch of their schedule, at least on paper. They only have three games left in the regular season (home games in ALL CAPS):
November 15: at Kansas (3-6)
November 27: at Texas (5-5)
December 6: IOWA STATE (2-7)
That game at Texas will be difficult, as the Longhorns -- who mauled West Virginia 33-16 today in Austin, Tex. -- now appear to be playing better than their record indicates. But the other two games should not be all that difficult and if Texas Christian can win out, they will be guaranteed a share of the Big XII title and they will have a good shot at the NCAA playoff. Given that Texas Christian last won the National Championship in 1938, that would be a pretty big deal.
This was the sixth appearance by K-State in the UCFC in the last three seasons, and the Wildcats are 3-3 in those games -- having lost their last three appearances in a row. Their overall record in UCFC play falls to 3-9. They will probably have to hope that the title stays in the Big XII in order to get another shot next year.
As for Texas Christian, they are also 3-3 in UCFC play over the last three seasons, but they are 3-1 this year and 33-19-6 all-time. They have now passed Oklahoma and moved into 11th place on the list of all-time UCFC victories. Perhaps even more importantly, they have made it through the most difficult stretch of their schedule, at least on paper. They only have three games left in the regular season (home games in ALL CAPS):
November 15: at Kansas (3-6)
November 27: at Texas (5-5)
December 6: IOWA STATE (2-7)
That game at Texas will be difficult, as the Longhorns -- who mauled West Virginia 33-16 today in Austin, Tex. -- now appear to be playing better than their record indicates. But the other two games should not be all that difficult and if Texas Christian can win out, they will be guaranteed a share of the Big XII title and they will have a good shot at the NCAA playoff. Given that Texas Christian last won the National Championship in 1938, that would be a pretty big deal.
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Texas Christian 7 - 0 Kansas St. (6:06 left in 1st Quarter)
Last week, in the rain and cold of West Virginia, Texas Christian QB Trevone Boykin (of West Mesquite H.S. in Dallas) spent most of the game looking very uncomfortable. But it is 63 degrees and clear in Fort Worth today, and Boykin looks sharp in front of the home fans. He leads the Horned Frogs straight down the field, and dashes in from two yards out to put the Frogs on top. Jaden Oberkrom of Martin H.S. in Arlington, Tex. tacks on the extra point.
Texas Christian 0 - 0 Kansas St. (8:08 left in 1st Quarter)
K-State can't do anything with the ball, and they punt to the Texas Christian 35.
Tonight's game is on FOX, and we have the excellent Gus Johnson in the booth.
Tonight's game is on FOX, and we have the excellent Gus Johnson in the booth.
Texas Christian 0 - 0 Kansas St. (10:14 left in 1st Quarter)
The game opened with an exchange of punts, and K-State is starting its second possession from its own 20.
This is only the 8th meeting in history between these two teams, which spent most of the 20th century in different conferences. K-State belonged to the Big VIII, while Texas Christian was in the Southwest Conference. Now they're both in the Big XII. K-State leads the all-time series 4-3.
Uniform watch: K-State doesn't usually go in for goofy uniforms, and sure enough they are wearing their traditional silver helmets (with Wildcat logo), white shirts with purple numerals, and silver pants with purpose stripes. They look remarkably like the Dallas Cowboys, if the 'boys wore silver and purple instead of silver and blue. A nice, clean look. Texas Christian is wearing their purple helmets with the TCU/Horned Frog logo, black jerseys with white camouflage numbers, and black pants. I don't think the black does that much for them.
This is only the 8th meeting in history between these two teams, which spent most of the 20th century in different conferences. K-State belonged to the Big VIII, while Texas Christian was in the Southwest Conference. Now they're both in the Big XII. K-State leads the all-time series 4-3.
Uniform watch: K-State doesn't usually go in for goofy uniforms, and sure enough they are wearing their traditional silver helmets (with Wildcat logo), white shirts with purple numerals, and silver pants with purpose stripes. They look remarkably like the Dallas Cowboys, if the 'boys wore silver and purple instead of silver and blue. A nice, clean look. Texas Christian is wearing their purple helmets with the TCU/Horned Frog logo, black jerseys with white camouflage numbers, and black pants. I don't think the black does that much for them.
Texas Christian v. Kansas St.
The last few weeks have been very dramatic for the UCFC. Since September 20, the title has changed hands four different times, and Texas Christian now holds it for the second time this season. The Horned Frogs have already been in three epic UCFC games this season -- a 37-33 victory over Oklahoma, a 61-58 loss to Baylor, and a 31-30 win over West Virginia. Meanwhile, Kansas State has yet to appear in a UCFC game this season -- in large part because the Wildcats have yet to play Texas Christian, Baylor, or West Virginia. With the exception of a 31-30 win at Oklahoma, K-State has been working its way through the soft underbelly of the Big XII, racking up wins over Iowa State, Texas Tech, Texas, and Oklahoma State. So going into today's games, the Big XII standings looked like this (AP rankings in parentheses):
(9) Kansas St: 5-0, 7-1
(10) Baylor: 4-1, 7-1
(6) Texas Christian: 4-1, 7-1
W. Virginia: 4-2, 6-3
(16) Oklahoma: 3-2, 6-2
Oklahoma St: 3-3, 5-4
Texas: 3-3, 4-5
Texas Tech: 1-5, 3-6
Iowa St: 0-5, 2-6
Kansas: 0-5, 2-6
So this is an enormous game for Texas Christian, Kansas State, and the UCFC. The stakes could not be much higher. K-State, Baylor, and Texas Christian all have very good chances to qualify for the NCAA Playoff, and this game will go far in determining whether that will happen -- and whether the UCFC will be on the table when that playoff kicks off.
When I was growing up, these were two of the worst programs in all of big-time college football -- in fact, Texas Christian lost its big-time status altogether for decades after the Southwest Conference collapsed. But since about 1990, K-State and Texas Christian have been very solid programs -- and now they have a chance to achieve great national acclaim.
Given that K-State's schedule has been relatively soft, it's hard to tell how they will match up with the battle-tested Horned Frogs -- especially on the road in Fort Worth. Vegas has made Texas Christian a 6 1/2 point favorite, with an over-under of 58 1/2. That would work out to something like a 33-26 win for the Frogs, which would be a low-scoring game by recent Big XII standards. My own instinct is that Texas Christian really is the best team in the Big XII, and one of the best in the country, and I think they will mount a very impressive title defense tonight in front of their home fans.
(9) Kansas St: 5-0, 7-1
(10) Baylor: 4-1, 7-1
(6) Texas Christian: 4-1, 7-1
W. Virginia: 4-2, 6-3
(16) Oklahoma: 3-2, 6-2
Oklahoma St: 3-3, 5-4
Texas: 3-3, 4-5
Texas Tech: 1-5, 3-6
Iowa St: 0-5, 2-6
Kansas: 0-5, 2-6
So this is an enormous game for Texas Christian, Kansas State, and the UCFC. The stakes could not be much higher. K-State, Baylor, and Texas Christian all have very good chances to qualify for the NCAA Playoff, and this game will go far in determining whether that will happen -- and whether the UCFC will be on the table when that playoff kicks off.
When I was growing up, these were two of the worst programs in all of big-time college football -- in fact, Texas Christian lost its big-time status altogether for decades after the Southwest Conference collapsed. But since about 1990, K-State and Texas Christian have been very solid programs -- and now they have a chance to achieve great national acclaim.
Given that K-State's schedule has been relatively soft, it's hard to tell how they will match up with the battle-tested Horned Frogs -- especially on the road in Fort Worth. Vegas has made Texas Christian a 6 1/2 point favorite, with an over-under of 58 1/2. That would work out to something like a 33-26 win for the Frogs, which would be a low-scoring game by recent Big XII standards. My own instinct is that Texas Christian really is the best team in the Big XII, and one of the best in the country, and I think they will mount a very impressive title defense tonight in front of their home fans.
Saturday, November 1, 2014
W. Virginia 30 - 31 Texas Christian (Final)
OBERKROM DOES IT! On the last play of the game, he splits the uprights with a game-winning field goal. TEXAS CHRISTIAN HAS COME FROM BEHIND TO WIN THE GAME! THEY ARE YOUR NEW UCFC HOLDERS!
What a game!
Ladies and gentlemen, THE UCFC!
What a game!
Ladies and gentlemen, THE UCFC!
W. Virginia 30 - 28 Texas Christian (4 seconds left in 4th Quarter)
Texas Christian keeps the ball on the ground, and gets to the WVU 20. On the last play of the game, it will be up to Jaden Oberkrom of Martin H.S. in Arlington, Tex. He will have the wind at his back.
Oberkrom comes onto the field, and WVU calls time to ice him. He is kicking from the left hash.
Oberkrom comes onto the field, and WVU calls time to ice him. He is kicking from the left hash.
W. Virginia 30 - 28 Texas Christian (1:09 left in 4th Quarter)
On 2d and 7 from the Texas Christian 27, Trevone Boykin hits a huge pass. He finds Kolby Listenbee (of Bowie H.S. in Arlington, Tex.), who was left wide open. (Herbstreit thinks that WVU, which had been playing man-to-man throughout the game, got confused when they switched to a zone for this last possession). Listenbee gets all the way to the WVU 33 -- putting the Frogs in field goal range.
W. Virginia 30 - 28 Texas Christian (2:07 left in 4th Quarter)
WVU, playing very conservatively (despite boos from the Mountaineer fans) goes three and out. They punt down to the Texas Christian 24.
This will probably be Texas Christian's last chance.
This will probably be Texas Christian's last chance.
W. Virginia 30 - 28 Texas Christian (3:46 left in 4th Quarter)
On 4th and 3 from the WVU 43, Texas Christian goes for it. WVU is going to blitz, and Texas Christian is going to respond with this little timing play where Boykin lofts a 10-yard pass to Catalon, who is then supposed to scamper through the WVU secondary. The problem is that WVU simply holds Catalon, thus preventing him from getting to the ball in time, which bounces harmlessly away. The WVU fans go nuts. Boykin screams at the officials, pleading for defensive holding. Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit think Boykin has the better of the argument, but the referees disagree. WVU takes over on downs.
W. Virginia 30 - 28 Texas Christian (5:12 left in 4th Quarter)
On first down, Texas Christian was going to try a flea-flicker, but Boykin couldn't find anyone to throw to, so he ran, getting all the way to the 50.
W. Virginia 30 - 28 Texas Christian (5:59 left in 4th Quarter)
Almost a disaster there for the Mountaineers, as Trickett almost throws an interception on second down, and then fumbles on third down. But this time, the WVU fumble was recovered by a WVU player -- running back Wendell Smallwood (formerly of Wilmington, Del. and Eastern Christian Academy). So WVU survives to punt the ball. Texas Christian will start from its own 29.
W. Virginia 30 - 28 Texas Christian (7:33 left in 4th Quarter)
Throughout this game, Texas Christian has often appeared to be intimidated by the sheer frenzy of a road game at West Virginia. But with the sun now gone, and the Mountaineer crowd in full cry, Texas Christian puts together a brave and impressive drive -- pounding the ball down the field, mostly on runs. On third and goal from the WVU 6, Catalon scores on a sweep for his second touchdown of the game. He now has 96 yards on 16 carries, and he has been Texas Christian's most effective weapon in this game.
Each of the last two times Texas Christian has scored, the WVU offense has responded with a score of its own. Can they do it again?
Each of the last two times Texas Christian has scored, the WVU offense has responded with a score of its own. Can they do it again?
W. Virginia 30 - 21 Texas Christian (11:28 left in 4th Quarter)
WVU goes three and out, and punts the ball to the 50.
W. Virginia 30 - 21 Texas Christian (13:09 left in 4th Quarter)
Texas Christian gets a few first downs, and drives to the WVU 46, but Boykin again cannot complete a short pass to keep the drive alive. He is now 8-25 for 104 yards. For the ninth time today, Texas Christian is forced to punt. This time the ball is downed at the WVU 8.
W. Virginia 30 - 21 Texas Christian (14:56 left in the 4th Quarter)
Through the rain, through the gathering darkness, WVU QB Trickett bounces back from his interception with a 46-yard bomb to Mario Alford. That pass puts the Mountaineers deep into Texas Christian territory, and the Mountaineers eventually cash in with a short field goal from Josh Lambert.
ABC notes that WVU has FIVE turnovers in this game -- to only two for Texas Christian. They point out that so far this year, D-1 football teams with five turnovers are 2-23. Can WVU make it three?
ABC notes that WVU has FIVE turnovers in this game -- to only two for Texas Christian. They point out that so far this year, D-1 football teams with five turnovers are 2-23. Can WVU make it three?
W. Virginia 27 - 21 Texas Christian (2:25 left in 3d Quarter)
That didn't take long. B.J. Catalon (formerly of Westside H.S. in Houston) rambles 23 yards for a touchdown. THE FROGS ARE RIGHT BACK IN THIS GAME!
THE UCFC! DON'T CHANGE THAT DIAL!
THE UCFC! DON'T CHANGE THAT DIAL!
W. Virginia 27 - 14 Texas Christian (3:49 left in 3d Quarter)
Just as WVU appeared to have this game well in hand, QB Clint Trickett apparently loses his mind. On third and long, with no chance to make a play, he throws an awkward pass that goes straight into the hands of Texas Christian linebacker Paul Dawson (formerly of Dallas, Tex. and Trinity Valley Community College). Texas Christian takes over at the WVU 35, and the Frogs are back in it!
W. Virginia 27 - 14 Texas Christian (4:39 left in 3d Quarter)
To me, Texas Christian looks defeated. Their offense is back to being hapless, and they soon punt to the WVU 34.
W. Virginia 27 - 14 Texas Christian (6:36 left in 3d Quarter)
Oh, my! Trying to fight back, Trevone Boykin throws a pass to Josh Doctson, who FUMBLES. The ball is scooped up at the Texas Christian 30 by WVU cornerback Terrell Chestnut (formerly of Pottsgrove H.S. in Pottsgrove, Pa.) and HE TAKES IT TO THE HOUSE! After not scoring for more than 23 minutes of game time, WVU has now scored 14 points in less than a minute.
Now it's really cold, and really dark, and really wet, and REALLY LOUD in Morgantown. If Texas Christian wants to win the Big XII -- and the UCFC -- they need to get going.
Now it's really cold, and really dark, and really wet, and REALLY LOUD in Morgantown. If Texas Christian wants to win the Big XII -- and the UCFC -- they need to get going.
W. Virginia 20 - 14 Texas Christian (6:51 left in 3d Quarter)
The WVU offense, apparently stunned out of its stupor by the Texas Christian touchdown, takes the kickoff and immediately charges down the field -- sticking mostly to the ground game -- going 79 yards in 7 plays. They score on a short run from all-name team member Dreamius Smith (formerly of Wichita, Kan. and Butler Community College).
It is cold, and dark, and rainy -- and very loud -- in Morgantown. Can Texas Christian respond?
It is cold, and dark, and rainy -- and very loud -- in Morgantown. Can Texas Christian respond?
W. Virginia 13 - 14 Texas Christian (9:27 left in 3d Quarter)
This time, Texas Christian makes WVU pay. The Horned Frogs avoid the delay of game penalty, and then they don't throw a single pass. They stay on the ground, and Boykin eventually dashes over from two yards out. Despite looking so bad for so long, the Horned Frogs are now in the lead.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (10:51 left in 3d Quarter)
On first and 10, WVU snaps the ball before the QB is ready, and they have committed their FOURTH turnover, all of which gave Texas Christian the ball inside the WVU 30.
Once again, Texas Christian's offense is all messed up, but this time they call time out before being called for delay of game. When we come back, they will have a 1st and 10 at the WVU 28.
Once again, Texas Christian's offense is all messed up, but this time they call time out before being called for delay of game. When we come back, they will have a 1st and 10 at the WVU 28.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (10:55 left in 3d Quarter)
More of the same. Texas Christian goes three and out, and they punt to the WVU 32.
Texas Christian quarterback Trevone Boykin is now 6-20 for 84 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT.
Texas Christian quarterback Trevone Boykin is now 6-20 for 84 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (12:07 left in 3d Quarter)
Back and forth we go. WVU goes three and out, and they punt to the Texas Christian 30.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (13:39 left in 3d Quarter)
Texas Christian's offense looks as bad as ever in the first possession of the half. The Frogs go three and out, and punt to the WVU 29.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (Halftime)
Texas Christian can't do anything with the ball, and the half comes to an end. Neither team scored in the second quarter.
West Virginia will be happy that they survived a quarter in which they turned the ball over three times in their own territory. Texas Christian will be happy that they are only six points down, given that Trevone Boykin is 5-16 for 71 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT.
We sometimes tease people who bet the under in a Big XII game. But I don't think these teams are going to reach 69 points today. The pretty patterns that these teams like to run just don't work in this type of weather.
West Virginia will be happy that they survived a quarter in which they turned the ball over three times in their own territory. Texas Christian will be happy that they are only six points down, given that Trevone Boykin is 5-16 for 71 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT.
We sometimes tease people who bet the under in a Big XII game. But I don't think these teams are going to reach 69 points today. The pretty patterns that these teams like to run just don't work in this type of weather.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (1:05 left in 2d Quarter)
West Virginia, keeping the ball on the ground, uses up some time, and then punts into the end zone.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (3:28 left in 2d Quarter)
Another disaster for the Horned Frogs! First, they can't get off a play and get called for delay of game. And then, on second down, Boykin (who has been awful so far) throws AN INTERCEPTION. He literally put the ball right into the hands of K.J. Dillon, a safety from Apopka H.S. in Apopka, Fla. WVU will take over at its own 24.
So, to recap: in the second quarter, WVU has turned the ball over three times in its own territory. Texas Christian has scored ZERO points off of those three turnovers.
So, to recap: in the second quarter, WVU has turned the ball over three times in its own territory. Texas Christian has scored ZERO points off of those three turnovers.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (3:54 left in 2d Quarter)
WVU commits its THIRD turnover of the second quarter. This time, Wendell Smallwood (formerly of Wilmington, Del. and Eastern Christian Academy) fumbles after a hard hit from Chris Hackett (who already has an interception).
Texas Christian recovers and starts from the WVU 23 -- but then they are immediately called for delay of game, the second time they have been penalized after getting a turnover.
Texas Christian recovers and starts from the WVU 23 -- but then they are immediately called for delay of game, the second time they have been penalized after getting a turnover.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (4:46 left in 2d Quarter)
The quarterbacks are really struggling in these weather conditions. On 3d and 2 from his own 43, Boykin can't complete a three-yard pass and the Frogs punt to the WVU 15. Boykin is now 5-15 for 71 yards, and 47 of those yards came on one play. For WVU, Clint Trickett isn't much better: 11-18 for 94 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (6:52 left in 2d Quarter)
With the rain and wind, it now feel like we're watching an old-school NFC Central game. Suddenly defense is everywhere. WVU can't go very far, so they punt to the Texas Christian 13.
This game currently feels very disjointed, with neither team showing much potential.
This game currently feels very disjointed, with neither team showing much potential.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (8:24 left in 2d Quarter)
Texas Christian's offense now officially looks awful. Once again, they can do nothing with a WVU turnover. They are hit with an immediate 15-yard penalty that puts them on the WVU 36, and they can't go anywhere from there. Unable to make a field goal into the wind, they are forced to punt to the WVU 17.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (9:51 left in 2d Quarter)
Huge mistake by WVU quarterback Clint Trackett. He heaves a deep pass for Kevin White, who is smothered by the Texas Christian defense. Instead, the ball is picked off by safety Chris Hackett (formerly of John Tyler H.S. in Tyler, Tex.) Hackett dashes all the way down to the WVU 21.
The rain has started to fall, and Texas Christian is now going into a strong wind.
The rain has started to fall, and Texas Christian is now going into a strong wind.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (11:42 left in 2d Quarter)
Except for that one drive, Texas Christian's offense has looked quite feeble in this game. They cannot take advantage of the turnover, quickly going three and out for the third time today. They punt to the WVU 10.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (13:05 left in 2d Quarter)
WVU appeared to be on its way to a nice drive when Russel Shell (formerly of Hopewell, Pa. and the University of Pittsburgh) fumbled the ball. Texas Christian scooped it up, and the Horned Frogs will start from the WVU 43.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (14:40 left in 2d Quarter)
Texas Christian can't do anything, and they punt to the WVU 20.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (22 seconds left in 1st Quarter)
The Texas Christian defense holds, and WVU punts to the Texas Christian 38.
W. Virginia 13 - 7 Texas Christian (1:44 left in 1st Quarter)
There's nothing like Big XII football in full flight. Texas Christian takes the ball and zips down the field with almost no effort, scoring on a 47-yard pass from Trevone Boykin (formerly of W. Mesquite H.S. in Dallas, Tex.) to Deante Gray (of Westside H.S. in Houston, Tex.) Gray caught the ball at the WVU 40 and literally ran the rest of the way without being touched -- just like you used to do in your backyard.
W. Virginia 13 - 0 Texas Christian (3:52 left in 1st Quarter)
The Texas Christian defense holds, and WVU is forced to settle for a 44-yard field goal from Josh Lambert. Now we will see if the Horned Frogs can recover the kick.
Actually, Texas Christian let the kickoff hit the ground AGAIN. But this time they recover it themselves. The Horned Frogs will start on their own 17.
Actually, Texas Christian let the kickoff hit the ground AGAIN. But this time they recover it themselves. The Horned Frogs will start on their own 17.
W. Virginia 10 - 0 Texas Christian (6:16 left in 1st Quarter)
On the kickoff, WVU hits one of those little pooch kicks. Texas Christian doesn't bother to catch it and the ball lands at the Texas Christian 30, where WVU cornerback Jaylon Myers (formerly of N. Augusta, S.C. and Hutchinson (Kan.) Community College) gleefully scoops it up. WVU has the ball again! What a nightmare start for Texas Christian.
W. Virginia 10 - 0 Texas Christian (6:19 left in 1st Quarter)
The Mountaineers get down to the Texas Christian 5 without too much trouble, but their drive stalls. So Josh Lambert (of Garland H.S. in Garland, Tex.) comes in a boots a field goal to give WVU a two possession lead.
W. Virginia 7 - 0 Texas Christian (10:44 left in 1st Quarter)
Texas Christian throws three passes, all of which are incomplete. They then punt to the WVU 45, where the Mountaineers will have a great chance to pad their lead.
W. Virginia 7 - 0 Texas Christian (11:07 left in 1st Quarter)
Texas Christian's defense doesn't look much better than it did a few weeks ago against Baylor. WVU takes the opening kickoff and goes 75 yards in 10 plays -- just easy as pie. The scoring play is a 23-yard pass from Clint Trickett (formerly of Tallahassee, Fla. and Florida State) to Mario Alford (formerly of Greenville, Ga. and Georgia Military). The folks at Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium go nuts, and the Mountaineers take the early lead.
But don't despair, Texas Christian fans. There will be many more points scored before this game is over.
But don't despair, Texas Christian fans. There will be many more points scored before this game is over.
W. Virginia 0 - 0 Texas Christian (15 minutes left in 1st Quarter)
Morgantown, W. Va. hosted ESPN College Gameday this morning, so today's game is on ABC with Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit in the booth -- a very strong combination -- with Heather Cox doing sideline commentary. So we will be rolling with the TV announcers today.
Uniform watch: the visiting Horned Frogs are wearing white helmets with the purple horned frog/TCU logo, white jerseys with camouflage-style purple numerals, and white pants. WVU is wearing their navy blue helmets with the WV logo, navy blue jerseys with old-school NASCAR numerals in gold, and navy blue pants.
There is a huge and rabid crowd at WVU, and it looks chilly and overcast.
Uniform watch: the visiting Horned Frogs are wearing white helmets with the purple horned frog/TCU logo, white jerseys with camouflage-style purple numerals, and white pants. WVU is wearing their navy blue helmets with the WV logo, navy blue jerseys with old-school NASCAR numerals in gold, and navy blue pants.
There is a huge and rabid crowd at WVU, and it looks chilly and overcast.
W. Virginia v. Texas Christian
This is the fifth time in the last three years that Texas Christian has played for the UCFC. As you can see, their appearances have tended to be somewhat dramatic:
10/20/12: Texas Tech goes to Ft. Worth and beats the Horned Frogs 56-53 in three overtimes
11/10/12: Texas Christian goes down 23-10 to Kansas State.
10/04/14: Texas Christian stuns Oklahoma 37-33
10/11/14: Texas Christian blows a 21-point fourth-quarter lead in Waco, falling 61-58 to Baylor
Texas Christian bounced back from that heartbreaking loss to Baylor with two easy home wins: 42-9 over Oklahoma State and 82(!) - 27 over Texas Tech. They are now 6-1 for the year, and 3-1 in the Big XII. The AP has them ranked number 10 in the country. But today they are playing on their second conference road game -- and it's a tough one, up in Mountaineer country.
WVU, which currently holds the Big Gold Trophy, is 6-2 overall and 4-1 in the Big XII. They are ranked number 20 in the country, they've won four games in a row, and their only losses this season are to Alabama and Oklahoma. Today they hosted the ESPN Gameday show, and had Brad Paisley himself there on campus to show support for the Mountaineers. They pounded Baylor 41-27 in their last home game, and they will be very tough to beat on Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium. We have seen a lot of WVU over the last few years, and I think they are usually about 14-20 points better when they have that big home crowd behind them.
The Mountaineers will also have weather on their side. Yesterday it was 70 degrees and sunny in Fort Worth, Texas -- Texas Christian's home base. But in Morgantown, W. Va., today it is 44 degrees and overcast, with a good chance of rain. As we saw a few weeks ago, Texas Christian has gotten very good at the whole Big XII style of offense, with all its pretty patterns and deep passes. But it won't be so easy to do that Air Coryell stuff in the cold and rain of West Virginia.
This is a huge game for both teams -- and not just because of the UCFC. Look at the latest standings from the Big XII (AP ratings in parentheses):
(11) Kansas St: 4-0, 6-1
(20) W. Virginia: 4-1, 6-2
(12) Baylor: 3-1, 6-1
(10) Texas Christian: 3-1, 6-1
Oklahoma St: 3-2, 5-3
(19) Oklahoma: 2-2, 5-2
Texas: 2-3, 3-5
Texas Tech: 1-4, 3-5
Iowa St: 0-4, 2-5
Kansas: 0-4, 2-5
Whoever wins this game will control its own destiny in the Big XII, while the loser will probably be unable to win the conference title.
This is only the third meeting between WVU and Texas Christian. Interestingly, each of the last two matches were won by the road team. In 2012, Texas Christian went to Morgantown and came away with a 39-38 victory. Last year, WVU got payback with a 30-27 win in Fort Worth.
The folks in Vegas have made Texas Christian a 3 1/2 point favorite, with an over-under of 69. That would work out to something like a 37-33 Horned Frog victory. That certainly sounds like a Big XII score, and I do believe that Texas Christian is the best team in the Big XII. But that wasn't enough for them to beat Baylor, and I have major doubts about whether they can beat WVU on its home turf.
If WVU wins, then this traveling road show will be in Austin, Tex. next week for a game between WVU and You-Tee. If Texas Christian wins, it will take the Big Gold Trophy home for a showdown with Kansas State.
10/20/12: Texas Tech goes to Ft. Worth and beats the Horned Frogs 56-53 in three overtimes
11/10/12: Texas Christian goes down 23-10 to Kansas State.
10/04/14: Texas Christian stuns Oklahoma 37-33
10/11/14: Texas Christian blows a 21-point fourth-quarter lead in Waco, falling 61-58 to Baylor
Texas Christian bounced back from that heartbreaking loss to Baylor with two easy home wins: 42-9 over Oklahoma State and 82(!) - 27 over Texas Tech. They are now 6-1 for the year, and 3-1 in the Big XII. The AP has them ranked number 10 in the country. But today they are playing on their second conference road game -- and it's a tough one, up in Mountaineer country.
WVU, which currently holds the Big Gold Trophy, is 6-2 overall and 4-1 in the Big XII. They are ranked number 20 in the country, they've won four games in a row, and their only losses this season are to Alabama and Oklahoma. Today they hosted the ESPN Gameday show, and had Brad Paisley himself there on campus to show support for the Mountaineers. They pounded Baylor 41-27 in their last home game, and they will be very tough to beat on Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium. We have seen a lot of WVU over the last few years, and I think they are usually about 14-20 points better when they have that big home crowd behind them.
The Mountaineers will also have weather on their side. Yesterday it was 70 degrees and sunny in Fort Worth, Texas -- Texas Christian's home base. But in Morgantown, W. Va., today it is 44 degrees and overcast, with a good chance of rain. As we saw a few weeks ago, Texas Christian has gotten very good at the whole Big XII style of offense, with all its pretty patterns and deep passes. But it won't be so easy to do that Air Coryell stuff in the cold and rain of West Virginia.
This is a huge game for both teams -- and not just because of the UCFC. Look at the latest standings from the Big XII (AP ratings in parentheses):
(11) Kansas St: 4-0, 6-1
(20) W. Virginia: 4-1, 6-2
(12) Baylor: 3-1, 6-1
(10) Texas Christian: 3-1, 6-1
Oklahoma St: 3-2, 5-3
(19) Oklahoma: 2-2, 5-2
Texas: 2-3, 3-5
Texas Tech: 1-4, 3-5
Iowa St: 0-4, 2-5
Kansas: 0-4, 2-5
Whoever wins this game will control its own destiny in the Big XII, while the loser will probably be unable to win the conference title.
This is only the third meeting between WVU and Texas Christian. Interestingly, each of the last two matches were won by the road team. In 2012, Texas Christian went to Morgantown and came away with a 39-38 victory. Last year, WVU got payback with a 30-27 win in Fort Worth.
The folks in Vegas have made Texas Christian a 3 1/2 point favorite, with an over-under of 69. That would work out to something like a 37-33 Horned Frog victory. That certainly sounds like a Big XII score, and I do believe that Texas Christian is the best team in the Big XII. But that wasn't enough for them to beat Baylor, and I have major doubts about whether they can beat WVU on its home turf.
If WVU wins, then this traveling road show will be in Austin, Tex. next week for a game between WVU and You-Tee. If Texas Christian wins, it will take the Big Gold Trophy home for a showdown with Kansas State.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 34 W. Virginia
This was the fifth time in the last three years that Oklahoma State has played for the Unofficial College Football Championship, and the Cowboys have been a disappointing 1-4 in those games. They gave it a good effort at home against WVU, but their lack of quality QB play eventually did them in. Their all-time UCFC record is now a depressing 3-12.
By contrast, West Virginia has gone 8-3 in UCFC play over the last three years, and are now 18-10 all-time. After consecutive losses by Oklahoma, Texas Christian, and Baylor, they become the first team in awhile to hold the trophy for more than one week. Now they go home to defend the title against Texas Christian.
By contrast, West Virginia has gone 8-3 in UCFC play over the last three years, and are now 18-10 all-time. After consecutive losses by Oklahoma, Texas Christian, and Baylor, they become the first team in awhile to hold the trophy for more than one week. Now they go home to defend the title against Texas Christian.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Oklahoma St. 10 - 34 W. Virginia (3:12 left in 4th Quarter)
Well, the roof has caved in on OSU now. The Cowboys are exhausted, they are hot, and they don't have their starting quarterback. They take the kickoff and go four and out, giving WVU the ball at the OSU 40. On first down, the Mountaineers give the ball to Dreamius Smith of Wichita, Kan., who dashes 40 yards through a winded Cowboy defense to put an exclamation point on the WVU victory.
So the streak of defeats for the UCFC holder is broken at three. WVU goes on the road and puts together a very impressive performance, using its strength and power to wear down OSU in the second half and come away with a hard-fought victory.
Now the Mountaineers will go home to face -- Texas Christian, who leads Texas Tech 68-27 early in the 4th Quarter. That will be a big-time game.
So the streak of defeats for the UCFC holder is broken at three. WVU goes on the road and puts together a very impressive performance, using its strength and power to wear down OSU in the second half and come away with a hard-fought victory.
Now the Mountaineers will go home to face -- Texas Christian, who leads Texas Tech 68-27 early in the 4th Quarter. That will be a big-time game.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 27 W. Virginia (4:44 left in 4th Quarter)
Desperately trying to get their hands on that Big Gold Trophy, OSU tried to go upfield again. But OSU has had to play this game without its regular starting quarterback, J.T. Walsh, who has been sidelined with a foot injury. Daxx Garman, the backup, has made a game effort, but has really struggled with accuracy in the second half. On this drive, he took the Cowboys out to the Oklahoma State 38. On first and 10, he had a wide receiver wide open deep down the right sideline, but overthrew him. On second and 10, he had a received in the middle of the field, but missed him. And on third and 10, he threw the ball to Dravon Henry of West Virginia, who returned it 51 yards for a touchdown. It was Henry's second interception of the game, and it has probably put a nail in OSU's coffin. On TV, you can see the OSU fans are heading for the exits.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 20 W. Virginia (5:40 left in 4th Quarter)
WVU isn't able to use up much clock this time, because: (a) OSU called all three of its timeouts trying to stop the clock, and (b) the WVU offensive coordinator insists on calling pass plays that his players are incapable of making work. So the Mountaineers' drive stalls at midfield, and they punt to the OSU 19.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 20 W. Virginia (7:27 left in 4th Quarter)
On 4th and 5 from the WVU 37, the Mountaineers' defense HOLDS, and WVU takes over on downs. OSU threw a long pass when they probably should have gone for something shorter, and the WVU defense was able to put enough pressure on the OSU QB to force a wild pass.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 20 W. Virginia (8:53 left in 4th Quarter)
Moving with the power of desperation, OSU's offense has slogged its way to the WVU 43, where the Cowboys face 2d and 11.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 20 W. Virginia (10:14 left in 4th Quarter)
With some help from a pass interference call, WVU puts together a nice little drive that goes down to the OSU 26, where it stalls due to a penalty and some really bad passing attempts. (WVU has run something like 33 plays in this half, to only 8 for OSU, and I really don't know why they were passing at all, given that it's 90 degrees and the announcers were talking about how tired the OSU defenders were). Anyway, the Mountaineers sent in Josh Lambert, who kicked a 43-yard field goal to give the WVU a two-possession lead.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 17 W. Virginia (14:34 left in 4th Quarter)
OSU goes three and out, and they punt to the WVU 31. There are no returns on these punts, by the way, because the OSU field is laid out west-to-east, which means that the punt returners are looking directly into the sun as the ball is heading their way. I have no idea why anyone would lay out a football field in this way, but that's what the folks at OSU decided to do.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 17 W. Virginia (37 seconds left in 3d Quarter)
Starting from its own 1, WVU holds the ball for over seven minutes, eventually moving to the OSU 46. But the drive stalls -- as drives have tended to do in the Oklahoma heat today -- and the Mountaineers punt to the OSU 16.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 17 W. Virginia (7:55 left in 3d Quarter)
OSU makes a few first downs, but can't do much more. So they punt -- and the ball is downed at the WVU 1 yard line. Very good play by the OSU special teams.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 17 W. Virginia (9:59 left in 3d Quarter)
The WVU offense, no doubt rested after a halftime break away from 90-degree heat, takes the opening kickoff of the second half and quickly drives into field goal range. The drive stalls, but Josh Lambert boots a 39-yard field goal to give WVU a seven-point lead.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 14 W. Virginia (Halftime)
OSU doesn't do much, and the clock runs out after one more punt.
It is 90 degrees in Stillwater today, and you have to wonder if the hot weather is slowing everyone down. But whatever the cause, we are not seeing our usual Big XII shootout so far today. OSU had 299 yards in the first half, while WVU had 250. But OSU also had the only turnover of the game, so it's all very much up for grabs. My guess is that WVU doesn't have enough firepower to impose its will on a pretty good OSU team so far from home, but we'll wait and see.
It is 90 degrees in Stillwater today, and you have to wonder if the hot weather is slowing everyone down. But whatever the cause, we are not seeing our usual Big XII shootout so far today. OSU had 299 yards in the first half, while WVU had 250. But OSU also had the only turnover of the game, so it's all very much up for grabs. My guess is that WVU doesn't have enough firepower to impose its will on a pretty good OSU team so far from home, but we'll wait and see.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 14 W. Virginia (50 seconds left in 2d Quarter)
For once, it is not looking good for the people who took the over in this game. WVU drives to midfield, but their offense stalls yet again, and they punt to the OSU 10.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 14 W. Virginia (3:33 left in 2d Quarter)
With momentum on its side, OSU drives deep into WVU territory. But their drive stalls, and then Ben Grogan MISSES a 36-yard field goal that could have drawn OSU within one point of the lead. Will that miss now cause momentum to swing back toward WVU?
Oklahoma St. 10 - 14 W. Virginia (7:04 left in 2d Quarter)
WVU's offense, which got off to such a good start, has simply stopped working. Once again, the Mountaineers can't do much with the ball, and the punt down to the OSU 7. For the first few minutes of this game, WVU seemed to have everything under control. Now all the momentum is with OSU.
Oklahoma St. 10 - 14 W. Virginia (8:34 left in 2d Quarter)
I wanted WVU to go for it on 4th and 3 from the OSU 46, but they decided to punt. On paper, the decision made sense, as OSU hadn't scored a touchdown in seven quarters. But this is the Big XII, where the home team -- or any team -- can score at any time. So sure enough, the Cowboys quickly go 90 yards, sparked in large part by a 52-yard run by Brandon Sheperd of St. Louis. The touchdown came on a 9-yard pass from Daxx Garman of Carroll H.S. in Southlake, Tex. to Teddy Johnson of Coppell H.S. in Coppell, Tex. Ben Grogan tacked on the extra point, and the Cowboys are right back in the game.
Oklahoma St. 3 - 14 W. Virginia (10:13 left in 2d Quarter)
WVU gets to the OSU 46, but their drive stalls, and they punt to the OSU 10.
Oklahoma St. 3 - 14 W. Virginia (14:11 left in 2d Quarter)
OSU finally puts together a nice drive, and they get to the WVU 24 before stalling. Ben Grogan of Martin H.S. in Arlington, Tex. boots a 41-yard field goal to put the Cowboys on the board.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 14 W. Virginia (43 seconds left in 1st Quarter)
Suddenly defense has broken out in the Big XII. Now WVU goes three and out, and they have to punt. OSU will start at its own 44.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 14 W. Virginia (2:42 left in 1st Quarter)
The OSU announcers tell us that the Cowboy offense has not scored in six quarters, which is unbelievable in Big XII play. Sure enough, the Cowboys go three and out, and they punt to the WVU 14.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 14 W. Virginia (4:13 left in 1st Quarter)
With a chance to really put the hammer down on OSU, the Mountaineers go three and out. They punt, and the Cowboys will take over on their 31.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 14 W. Virginia (5:55 left in 1st Quarter)
OSU had a nice drive going, but a long pass is intercepted by Dravon Henry of Aliquippa H.S. in Aliquippa, Pa. (one of the great town names in America). WVU will take over on its own 15 yard line. The OSU radio announcers sound discouraged.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 14 W. Virginia (7:49 left in 1st Quarter)
So far, OSU does not look as though it has recovered from its blowout loss to Texas Christian last week. West Virginia scores quickly, as Trickett hits Mario Alford (of Greenville, Ga.) on a slant pass and Alford outraces the OSU secondary, going 79 yards for WVU's second touchdown of the game.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 7 W. Virginia (9:09 left in the 1st Quarter)
OSU doesn't get very far, and they punt to the WVU 11.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 7 W. Virginia (10:29 left in 1st Quarter)
Well, that was easy. West Virginia takes less than two minutes to drive 68 yards for a touchdown, scoring on a 19-yard pass from Clint Trickett (of Tallahassee, Fla.) to Kevin White (of Plainfield, N.J.). Josh Lambert of Garland H.S. in Garland, Tex. boots the extra point and the Eers have a seven-point lead.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 0 W. Virginia (12:19 left in 1st Quarter)
OSU drove to the WVU 38, but they are stopped on downs and the Mountaineers take over.
Oklahoma St. 0 - 0 W. Virginia (15 minutes left in 1st Quarter)
OK, it's time for kickoff on a clear, sunny day in Stillwater. Oklahoma State is wearing old-school uniforms: white helmets with an orange bucking-bronco logo, orange jerseys with white numerals, and white pants with orange and black stripes. West Virginia is wearing yellow helmets with the navy WV logo, white jerseys with navy numerals (in their weird, sixties-NASCAR-style font), and yellow pants. Not a great pair of uniforms, but believe me these two teams could look much worse.
West Virginia wins the toss and defers to the second half. Oklahoma State decides to take the opening kickoff. The kickoff goes through the end zone and OSU will start on the 25.
West Virginia wins the toss and defers to the second half. Oklahoma State decides to take the opening kickoff. The kickoff goes through the end zone and OSU will start on the 25.
Oklahoma St. v. W. Virginia
Well, things have gotten wacky in the Big XII, and the Unofficial College Football Championship has been swept up in that madness. Since conference play began, the UCFC holder has taken the Big Gold Trophy on the road for four games in a row. Here's how it's gone (home teams listed first):
9/20: W. Virginia 33 - 45 (4) Oklahoma
9/27: Texas Christian 37 - 33 (4) Oklahoma
10/11: (5) Baylor 61 - 58 (9) Texas Christian
10/18: W. Virginia 41 - 27 (4) Baylor
So that's three consecutive losses by top-10 teams on the road, and each of those losses handed the UCFC to a new team. Meanwhile, the Big XII standings were further scrambled when Kansas State upset Oklahoma 31-30 last week in Norman. Going into today's play, the Big XII looks like this:
(11) Kansas State: 3-0, 5-1
W. Virginia: 3-1, 5-2
(12) Baylor: 3-1, 6-1
Oklahoma St: 3-1, 5-2
(10) Texas Christian: 2-1, 5-1
(17) Oklahoma: 2-2, 5-2
Texas: 2-2, 3-4
Texas Tech: 1-3, 3-4
Iowa State: 0-4, 2-5
Kansas: 0-4, 2-5
After beating each other up for the last few weeks, it now appears that the Big XII may be on the outside looking in when the new playoff games kick off on New Year's Day.
But the folks in West Virginia and Oklahoma State are not thinking about the playoffs right now. The Mountaineers have won three games in a row and have only lost to Alabama and Oklahoma. OSU has only lost to Number-2 Florida State and Number-10 Texas Christian -- although they were humiliated (42-9) by the Horned Frogs in Fort Worth last week. But the Cowboys are back home today, and both WVU and OSU are still on pace to reach a very good bowl if they can keep winning. So this is a huge, huge game -- not only because of the UCFC, but for what it will mean inside the Big XII.
This is only the sixth meeting between the Mountaineers and the Cowboys, and WVU leads the all-time series 3-2. Last year, in Morgantown, WVU beat OSU 30-21 -- but the year before, in Stillwater, OSU won 55-34. (One thing that never changes in the Big XII -- lots and lots of points).
Vegas sees this game as a pick-em, with an over-under of 66 points. Personally, I will be surprised if these teams combine for fewer than 66 points. But I agree that the game itself could go either way.
9/20: W. Virginia 33 - 45 (4) Oklahoma
9/27: Texas Christian 37 - 33 (4) Oklahoma
10/11: (5) Baylor 61 - 58 (9) Texas Christian
10/18: W. Virginia 41 - 27 (4) Baylor
So that's three consecutive losses by top-10 teams on the road, and each of those losses handed the UCFC to a new team. Meanwhile, the Big XII standings were further scrambled when Kansas State upset Oklahoma 31-30 last week in Norman. Going into today's play, the Big XII looks like this:
(11) Kansas State: 3-0, 5-1
W. Virginia: 3-1, 5-2
(12) Baylor: 3-1, 6-1
Oklahoma St: 3-1, 5-2
(10) Texas Christian: 2-1, 5-1
(17) Oklahoma: 2-2, 5-2
Texas: 2-2, 3-4
Texas Tech: 1-3, 3-4
Iowa State: 0-4, 2-5
Kansas: 0-4, 2-5
After beating each other up for the last few weeks, it now appears that the Big XII may be on the outside looking in when the new playoff games kick off on New Year's Day.
But the folks in West Virginia and Oklahoma State are not thinking about the playoffs right now. The Mountaineers have won three games in a row and have only lost to Alabama and Oklahoma. OSU has only lost to Number-2 Florida State and Number-10 Texas Christian -- although they were humiliated (42-9) by the Horned Frogs in Fort Worth last week. But the Cowboys are back home today, and both WVU and OSU are still on pace to reach a very good bowl if they can keep winning. So this is a huge, huge game -- not only because of the UCFC, but for what it will mean inside the Big XII.
This is only the sixth meeting between the Mountaineers and the Cowboys, and WVU leads the all-time series 3-2. Last year, in Morgantown, WVU beat OSU 30-21 -- but the year before, in Stillwater, OSU won 55-34. (One thing that never changes in the Big XII -- lots and lots of points).
Vegas sees this game as a pick-em, with an over-under of 66 points. Personally, I will be surprised if these teams combine for fewer than 66 points. But I agree that the game itself could go either way.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
W. Virginia 41 - 27 Baylor (Final)
I didn't see this game, but I'm not surprised that West Virginia -- who is traditionally very tough at home -- knocked off previously-undefeated Baylor, giving us our fourth UCFC champion in the last four weeks. Now the Mountaineers have to go on the road, as they face a tricky game in Stillwater against Oklahoma State. Will we see another new champion next week?
Thursday, October 16, 2014
W. Virginia v. Baylor
This is a huge game, both for the teams and for the Big Gold Trophy. The Baylor Bears, ranked number 4 in the country by the Associated Press, are 6-0 overall and 3-0 in the Big XII. They also have the momentum of a miraculous, come-from-behind victory at home to knock off Texas Christian and take the UCFC. If they win this game, they will take the trophy back home for a game with Kansas on November 1. If they win that game -- and they would be heavily favored -- then they will take the trophy up to Norman, Oklahoma for a showdown with the Sooners. Whoever wins that game will probably go undefeated for the rest of the year, win the Big XII, and take the trophy to the NCAA football playoff.
But it is by no means certain that Baylor will beat West Virginia. The Mountaineers have their own momentum, as they rallied from 14 points down in the fourth quarter to beat Texas Tech 37-34 down in Lubbock. This will be West Virginia's third game of the year against a team ranked in the AP top five, and while they lost the two prior games, they put up game efforts against both Alabama (23-33) and Oklahoma (33-45). Those are their only two losses, leaving them 2-1 in the Big XII and 4-2 overall. And they will be tough at home, as they always are.
The folks in Vegas expect Baylor to win another high-scoring contest. They have installed Baylor as an 8-point favorite with an over-under line of 80. That would work out to a 44-36 victory for the Bears, which still seems a little bit low-scoring to me. Given how shaky Baylor's defense looked last Saturday, I would not be surprised by a West Virginia win. Given how quickly Baylor can score, I wouldn't be surprised if the oddsmakers were right. This is a very difficult game to predict.
I will not be live-blogging this game, as I will be attending a showdown in the Southern Athletic Association between the Sewanee Tigers and the Centre Colonels. But we will have a post-game report sometime next week.
But it is by no means certain that Baylor will beat West Virginia. The Mountaineers have their own momentum, as they rallied from 14 points down in the fourth quarter to beat Texas Tech 37-34 down in Lubbock. This will be West Virginia's third game of the year against a team ranked in the AP top five, and while they lost the two prior games, they put up game efforts against both Alabama (23-33) and Oklahoma (33-45). Those are their only two losses, leaving them 2-1 in the Big XII and 4-2 overall. And they will be tough at home, as they always are.
The folks in Vegas expect Baylor to win another high-scoring contest. They have installed Baylor as an 8-point favorite with an over-under line of 80. That would work out to a 44-36 victory for the Bears, which still seems a little bit low-scoring to me. Given how shaky Baylor's defense looked last Saturday, I would not be surprised by a West Virginia win. Given how quickly Baylor can score, I wouldn't be surprised if the oddsmakers were right. This is a very difficult game to predict.
I will not be live-blogging this game, as I will be attending a showdown in the Southern Athletic Association between the Sewanee Tigers and the Centre Colonels. But we will have a post-game report sometime next week.
Saturday, October 11, 2014
Baylor 61 - 58 Texas Christian (Final)
Baylor ends the second half the same way it ended the first half -- with a field goal. Chris Callahan boots the ball through the uprights one more time, and BAYLOR HAS REGAINED THE UNOFFICIAL COLLEGE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP!
Texas Christian blows a 21-point lead in the fourth quarter, and loses the UCFC after a single week. The Frogs' all-time record in UCFC play is 31-19-6. Meanwhile, Baylor takes over the crown that it held for most of last season, and their UCFC record is now 28-19-3.
Next week, the Big Gold Trophy goes back to Morgantown, West Virginia.
Texas Christian blows a 21-point lead in the fourth quarter, and loses the UCFC after a single week. The Frogs' all-time record in UCFC play is 31-19-6. Meanwhile, Baylor takes over the crown that it held for most of last season, and their UCFC record is now 28-19-3.
Next week, the Big Gold Trophy goes back to Morgantown, West Virginia.
Baylor 58 - 58 Texas Christian (19 seconds left in 4th Quarter)
Baylor picks up a first down at the Texas Christian 12. They are going to win the game and the UCFC. Texas Christian, which gave Baylor three points at the end of the first half by snapping the ball over their punter's head, and which blew a 21 point lead in the 4th quarter, can have no complaints. The Horned Frogs had this game won and they gave it away.
Baylor 58 - 58 Texas Christian (27 seconds left in 4th Quarter)
Facing a 4th and long from the Texas Christian 43, Bryce Petty hurled a long pass down the sideline. The pass was broken up by Texas Christian, but the officials called pass interference. On ABC, Todd Blackledge thought it was a terrible call. I agree with him, but at this point I just want this game to end in regulation.
Baylor 58 - 58 Texas Christian (1:11 left in 4th Quarter)
To their credit, the Horned Frogs went for it on 4th and 3. To their blame, they tried that stupid lob play where you loft the ball toward the sidelines and create a jump ball, hoping that the refs will call pass interference on the other team. Given that this was the most important play of the game, and that the game is being played on Baylor's home field, you will not be surprised to learn that pass interference was not called. Baylor takes over at its own 42.
Baylor 58 - 58 Texas Christian (1:17 left in 4th Quarter)
With 1:20 left, Texas Christian faced a 4th and 8 at the 50. They were going to punt -- a decision that strike me as insane, given how bad their defense is playing. But Baylor was called for having too many men on the field. This gave Texas Christian a 4th and 3 at the 45. At this point, Texas Christian looked like they were going to go for it. Instead, they called time. Then they sent out the punting team again -- and then CALLED TIME. What are they doing? What are they thinking about? They HAVE TO GO FOR IT -- if they punt to Baylor, they will lose in regulation.
Baylor 58 - 58 Texas Christian (4:42 left in 4th Quarter)
Well, that punt worked out about as well as I expected. Baylor goes 91 yards in less than a minute, scoring on a 25 yard pass from Petty to a wide-open Corey Coleman. Here are Petty's numbers at this point in the game: 28 of 53, 511 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. It's like watching someone play a video game.
Baylor's only mistake was scoring so quickly. Can their defense hold?
Baylor's only mistake was scoring so quickly. Can their defense hold?
Baylor 51 - 58 Texas Christian (5:40 left in 4th Quarter)
Just a disastrous possession for the Horned Frogs, who only go six yards on three plays. To me, it's insane for the Frogs to punt, given the recent performance of their defense. But they're going to give their defense at least one more chance, and they punt the ball to the Baylor 9.
Baylor 51 - 58 Texas Christian (6:39 left in 4th Quarter)
Well, it was clearly a mistake to brag on Texas Christian's defense, because that defense has now collapsed. Baylor goes 91 yards with almost no effort, topping off the drive with a 28-yard pass from Bryce Petty to Antwan Goodley.
Texas Christian is going to get the ball, and now they pretty much have to score if they want to win this game in regulation.
Texas Christian is going to get the ball, and now they pretty much have to score if they want to win this game in regulation.
Baylor 44 - 58 Texas Christian (8:02 left in 4th Quarter)
Texas Christian takes the kickoff, moves out to midfield, but can't get any further. They punt, and the Bears will take over on their own 9. But, again, does it really matter where Baylor starts?
Baylor 44 - 58 Texas Christian (10:39 left in 4th Quarter)
With a three-touchdown lead, Texas Christian's defense eased up somewhat, so they don't have that lead any more. Baylor quickly zipped down the field, scoring on a 7 yard run by Devin Chafin of Buckbunnett H.S. in Buckbunnett, Tex. As they say in the Big XII, it's not over 'til it's over.
Baylor 37 - 58 Texas Christian (11:38 left in 4th Quarter)
Texas Christian's defense has actually played well in the second half of these last two games. Against Oklahoma, the Frogs' defense allowed only 7 points in the second half, and scored a pick-six touchdown of its own. Now, in this game, Marcus Mallet of Cleveland H.S. in Cleveland, Tex. picked off a Bryce Petty pass at the Baylor 49 and dashed ALL THE WAY FOR A PICK SIX TOUCHDOWN. The Horned Frogs now have a 21-point lead in Waco against the number 5 team in the nation. This is a very impressive performance so far.
Baylor 37 - 51 Texas Christian (14:29 left in 4th Quarter)
Well, that didn't take long. Aaron Green of San Antonio, Tex. dashes into the end zone from six yards out, and Texas Christian regains its 14-point lead.
Back to Baylor.
Back to Baylor.
Baylor 37 - 44 Texas Christian (15 minutes left in 4th Quarter)
With first and 10 from its own 32, Texas Christian goes for the double-reverse pass. The ball ends up in the hands of Cameron Echols-Luper of Auburn H.S. in Auburn, Ala. He gets a key block from Trevone Boykin (the Frogs' outstanding quarterback), and hurls the ball FIFTY-NINE YARDS to B.J. Catalon, who makes a great catch and goes down at the Baylor 9.
Baylor 37 - 44 Texas Christian (35 seconds left in 3d Quarter)
Facing a must-score situation, Baylor does, in fact, score. Bryce Petty quickly moved the Bears to the Texas Christian 46, and then heaved a perfect touchdown pass to a wide-open Jay Lee of Allen H.S. in Allen, Tex.
So the Bears have held serve, and now the ball goes back to Texas Christian -- although given the state of defense in the Big XII, I don't understand why they don't onside kick every time.
So the Bears have held serve, and now the ball goes back to Texas Christian -- although given the state of defense in the Big XII, I don't understand why they don't onside kick every time.
Baylor 30 - 44 Texas Christian (2:15 left in 3d Quarter)
The game is moving very quickly now. Baylor could do anything, punted, and then Texas Christian zipped right back into field goal range. Their drive stalled, but their third field goal of the game has given the Frogs a two-touchdown lead.
Baylor 30 - 41 Texas Christian (3:53 left in 3d Quarter)
On the last possession, Baylor held Texas Christian inside its own 10. But this time, Texas Christian quickly drove 70 yards for yet another touchdown, scoring on a two-yard run by Trevorris Johnson of Alief Taylor H.S. in Houston. For the first time in awhile, Texas Christian has a lead of more than one possession.
Oh, once again we see that the over/under line was crossed before the fourth quarter began.
Oh, once again we see that the over/under line was crossed before the fourth quarter began.
Baylor 30 - 34 Texas Christian (5:23 left in 3d Quarter)
Baylor takes the kickoff, and quickly moves back into Horned Frog territory. But the drive stalls, and the Bears have to settle for a field goal. Now Texas Christian will get the ball. Can they hold serve?
Baylor 27 - 34 Texas Christian (8:42 left in 3d Quarter)
On third and goal from the 3, Texas Christian tried that stupid lob pass to the corner that almost never works, and Boykin threw it well out of bounds. So the Frogs settle for a field goal that bumps their lead up to seven points. But that goal-line stand will feel good to Baylor fans.
Baylor 27 - 31 Texas Christian (8:50 left in 3d Quarter)
Baylor's defense holds for two more plays. Facing third and goal at the 3, the Horned Frogs call time.
Baylor 27 - 31 Texas Christian (9:51 left in 3d Quarter)
On third and goal from the 9, Baylor is called for pass interference again. Now Texas Christian will have first and goal at the 2.
Baylor 27 - 31 Texas Christian (10:48 left in 3d Quarter)
Texas Christian appeared to score a touchdown on its first play after the interception -- despite pass interference by Baylor -- but on review the officials held that the pass was incomplete. Texas Christian will have first and goal at the Baylor 8.
Baylor 27 - 31 Texas Christian (10:56 left in the 3d Quarter)
Bryce Petty, the remarkable Baylor quarterback, was scrambling to make a play, when he decided to throw a pass into coverage near the sideline. This was a mistake, as the pass was INTERCEPTED by Kevin White of Stony Point H.S. in Round Rock, Tex. White took the ball from the Baylor 29 to the Baylor 23, where Texas Christian will have a golden opportunity to pad its lead.
Baylor 27 - 31 Texas Christian (12:11 left in 3d Quarter)
The Horned Frogs took the kickoff to start the second half, and they had a pretty good drive going until they hurt themselves with a penalty for pass interference. The drive subsequently stalled at the Baylor 39, and with a 4th and 8 they punted down to the Baylor 11. I would have gone for it, as I don't think it matters much where Baylor gets the ball.
Baylor 27 - 31 Texas Christian (Halftime)
Unbelievable. Texas Christian took over on its own 48 with only 25 seconds left in the first half. Remarkably, they ran three plays and still had 8 seconds left in the half. Since they didn't get very far, they decided to punt. But the punt was SNAPPED OVER THE PUNTER'S HEAD. Suddenly there was a wild scramble for the ball. With one second left in the half, a Baylor player fell on the ball at the Texas Christian 11. The Bears then used their one remaining second to boot a field goal. And with that, the half finally comes to an end.
I don't think anyone can realistically predict what's going to happen in this game. It's been wild so far.
I don't think anyone can realistically predict what's going to happen in this game. It's been wild so far.
Baylor 24 - 31 Texas Christian (25 seconds left in 2d Quarter)
Remarkably, the Texas Christian defense holds. Baylor punts, and the Frogs take over at their own 48.
Baylor 24 - 31 Texas Christian (1:38 left in 2d Quarter)
This time, the Frogs don't even need to put their offense on the field. B.J. Catalon takes the kickoff AND GOES 94 YARDS FOR A TOUCHDOWN to restore Texas Christian's lead.
But, of course, Baylor gets one more shot before the half.
But, of course, Baylor gets one more shot before the half.
Baylor 24 - 24 Texas Christian (1:49 left in 2d Quarter)
The Big XII, ladies and gentlemen!
Baylor does not need to bother with any sort of two minute offense. Instead, after moving the ball out to their own 31, they simply have Bryce Petty hurl a 69-yard bomb to K.D. Cannon of Mount Pleasant H.S. in Mount Pleasant, Tex. So we're all tied up. But Texas Christian gets one more shot before the half.
Baylor does not need to bother with any sort of two minute offense. Instead, after moving the ball out to their own 31, they simply have Bryce Petty hurl a 69-yard bomb to K.D. Cannon of Mount Pleasant H.S. in Mount Pleasant, Tex. So we're all tied up. But Texas Christian gets one more shot before the half.
Baylor 17 - 24 Texas Christian (2:44 left in 2d Quarter)
Another very solid drive from the Frogs, who move down to the Baylor 22 before being stopped. Jaden Oberkrom kicks a 39-yard field goal, and Texas Christian has a 7-point lead. But Baylor will get another shot before halftime.
Baylor 17 - 21 Texas Christian (5:09 left in 2d Quarter)
The Bears cannot take advantage of their good field position. They run four plays and gain eight yards. Under the rules of football, that means you have to give the ball to the other team. Texas Christian will take over at its own 32.
Baylor 17 - 21 Texas Christian (5:46 left in 2d Quarter)
Now momentum has swung to the Bears. Their defense rises up and stops Texas Christian. The Frogs then have a terrible 26-yard punt that bounces backward and is downed at the Texas Christian 40. Baylor now has a golden opportunity to take the lead.
Baylor 17 - 21 Texas Christian (7:07 left in 2d Quarter)
Baylor holds serve, going 69 yards in 10 plays for a touchdown of their own. The score came on a 29-yard pass from Petty to Corey Coleman of Pearce H.S. in Richardson, Tex. Petty is now 11-23 for 219 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Baylor 10 - 21 Texas Christian (10:15 left in 2d Quarter)
Texas Christian responds to the Baylor score with a very impressive drive of its own, going 91 yards on 15 plays in the teeth of a fired-up Bear defense that was supported by a vociferous crowd. Trevone Boykin continues to impress; he is now 9 of 19 for 162 yards. He leads the Frogs down to the Baylor 9, from which B.J. Catalon dashes in for his second touchdown of the day. Baylor is exceedingly difficult to beat at home, but Texas Christian is really giving it the old college try.
Baylor 10 - 14 Texas Christian (2 seconds left in 1st Quarter)
Baylor zips down the field as usual, but this time their drive stalls at the Texas Christian 5. Chris Callahan -- he of the Second Baptist School -- kicks a field goal to bring the Bears to within 4.
To give you a sense of the speed with which these teams play, consider that the two quarterbacks combined to throw 28 passes in the first quarter.
To give you a sense of the speed with which these teams play, consider that the two quarterbacks combined to throw 28 passes in the first quarter.
Baylor 7 - 14 Texas Christian (1:23 left in 2d Quarter)
Texas Christian takes the kickoff, can do nothing, and punt to the Baylor 37.
Baylor 7 - 14 Texas Christian (2:03 left in 1st Quarter)
Well, these three-and-outs couldn't last. That old UCFC hero, Bryce Petty of Midlothian H.S. in Midlothian, Tex., hurls a 66-yard touchdown pass to Antwan Goodley of Midland H.S. in Midland, Tex. Chris Callahan of Second Baptist School in Houston boots the extra point.
Baylor 0 - 14 Texas Christian (2:38 left in 1st Quarter)
And now the Frogs go three and out again. They punt to the Baylor 23.
Baylor 0 - 14 Texas Christian (3:59 left in 1st Quarter)
Back and forth we go. The Bears go three and out, and they punt to the Texas Christian 27.
Baylor 0 - 14 Texas (5:35 left in 1st Quarter)
The Frogs cannot add to their lead. They go three and out, and punt to the Baylor 15.
Baylor 0 - 14 Texas Christian (6:53 left in 1st Quarter)
The Bears can do nothing, and they punt to the Texas Christian 32. The Frogs could put them in a big hole -- even by Big XII standards -- with a score here.
Baylor 0 - 14 Texas Christian (7:40 left in 1st Quarter)
Well, that didn't take long. Texas Christian zips down the field, and scores on a 3-yard run by B.J. Catalon of Westside H.S. in Houston. The Frogs look really great so far.
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