The MAC is one football league that makes sure it's teams do not lose money on bowl games. This article discusses bowl expenses and focuses on Northern Illinois' trip to the Orange Bowl.
Twenty-six buses filled with Husky students are heading to the Orange Bowl.
The Chicago Sun-Times says the 2014 playoff system will insure non-BCS teams will no longer be an exception in major bowls.
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It's been a dream season for Kent State.
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Jeromy Miles was a game captain during the Bengals 23-17 win over the Ravens Sunday.
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Monday, December 31, 2012
Recruiting 2013--Shane Huber
I've blogged about NJ linebacker Shane Huber a number of times in the past.
According to Scout.com via Matty, Huber decommited from UMass yesterday.
Harry Plumer of MassLive also has a post.
That drops UMass down to two three-star verbals.
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According to Scout.com via Matty, Huber decommited from UMass yesterday.
Harry Plumer of MassLive also has a post.
That drops UMass down to two three-star verbals.
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Sunday, December 30, 2012
Sunday---December 30th, 2012
I've blogged about 2013 recruit Shane Huber a number of times before. He played in the "Chesapeake Bowl" Saturday.
A direct link to the bowl site does not work. This article has some background on the game.
An intrepid Blog reader sent us this quote from the Rivals write-up on the game. Special thanks to him!
"Huber played with a nonstop motor throughout the day. If he didn't make the tackle, he was around the ball or involved in the play. Huber was the most physical player on the North team, consistently taking on offensive linemen and blowing up running plays. He excelled at reading and making the stop on inside running plays."
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The Massachusetts HS Football Coaches Association released their "Super 26 Team" yesterday.
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VanDelay Sports reviews the All-MAC teams for 2012.
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Sports Illustrated breaks down Northern Illinois's bid to beat Florida State in the Orange Bowl.
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Victor Cruz is still waiting for his new contract with the Giants.
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My revenge fantasy of UMass crushing Northern Illinois in hoops did not work out as the Minutemen let a double digit lead slip to five by the end of yesterday's game.
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A direct link to the bowl site does not work. This article has some background on the game.
An intrepid Blog reader sent us this quote from the Rivals write-up on the game. Special thanks to him!
"Huber played with a nonstop motor throughout the day. If he didn't make the tackle, he was around the ball or involved in the play. Huber was the most physical player on the North team, consistently taking on offensive linemen and blowing up running plays. He excelled at reading and making the stop on inside running plays."
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The Massachusetts HS Football Coaches Association released their "Super 26 Team" yesterday.
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VanDelay Sports reviews the All-MAC teams for 2012.
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Sports Illustrated breaks down Northern Illinois's bid to beat Florida State in the Orange Bowl.
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Victor Cruz is still waiting for his new contract with the Giants.
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My revenge fantasy of UMass crushing Northern Illinois in hoops did not work out as the Minutemen let a double digit lead slip to five by the end of yesterday's game.
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Saturday, December 29, 2012
Saturday--December 29th, 2012
UMass hoops plays Northern Illinois today at 4:00 pm EST. I suppose I shouldn't feel this way, but I can't help hoping the Minutemen win by about 35. During UMass' football visit the Huskies kept the petal to the metal the whole game, including the last ten minutes.
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According to the Boston College Blog "BC Interruption" Eagles coach Steve Addazio offered the job of defensive coordinator to former UMass player and coach Joe Cullen.
Cullen's Jaguars bio.
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John Griffin has been promoted from the Jets practice squad to the active roster.
Another story about his promotion here.
Griffin's Jets page.
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The MAC scored its second bowl victory when Ohio crushed ULM in the Independence Bowl 45-14.
The Bobcats set four Independence Bowl records in their win.
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According to the Boston College Blog "BC Interruption" Eagles coach Steve Addazio offered the job of defensive coordinator to former UMass player and coach Joe Cullen.
Cullen's Jaguars bio.
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| Rich Barnes/USA Today image |
Another story about his promotion here.
Griffin's Jets page.
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The MAC scored its second bowl victory when Ohio crushed ULM in the Independence Bowl 45-14.
The Bobcats set four Independence Bowl records in their win.
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Friday, December 28, 2012
Friday--December 28th, 2012
The Salem Patch has it's Top Ten Sports stories of 2012. Included is UMass recruit Steve Casali's verbal to the Minutemen.
"Ah, the benefits sometimes of following certain people on Twitter. We reported this story back in June, when Sachem East and Hansen Award winning running back Steve Casali decided to take his talents to the Bay State and tweeted about it. "Committed to #UMASS where I'll be playing at Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots!! #pumped #sohappy!!!! :)" Casali's Tweet stated. Less than six months after this Tweet, he helped his team all the way to the Suffolk County Championship game"
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SB Nation previews today's Independence Bowl featuring Ohio and ULM. UMass played perhaps their best all around game in their near upset of the Bobcats.
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ESPN features Notre Dame's Brian Kelley and mentions Coach Molnar.
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Bowling Green became the third MAC team to lose a bowl game as the Falcons dropped the Military Bowl to SJSY 29-22. I watched the game and Bowling Green's tough defense almost won the game for them. A blocked punt for a touchdown was the difference.
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The UConn Blog (good name) chronicles a bad year for the Huskies.
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Jeromy Miles Cincinnati stats so far this season.
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James Ihedigbo gets a positive mention and a cover image on this SB Nation's story on the Raven's backups.
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"Ah, the benefits sometimes of following certain people on Twitter. We reported this story back in June, when Sachem East and Hansen Award winning running back Steve Casali decided to take his talents to the Bay State and tweeted about it. "Committed to #UMASS where I'll be playing at Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots!! #pumped #sohappy!!!! :)" Casali's Tweet stated. Less than six months after this Tweet, he helped his team all the way to the Suffolk County Championship game"
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SB Nation previews today's Independence Bowl featuring Ohio and ULM. UMass played perhaps their best all around game in their near upset of the Bobcats.
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ESPN features Notre Dame's Brian Kelley and mentions Coach Molnar.
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Bowling Green became the third MAC team to lose a bowl game as the Falcons dropped the Military Bowl to SJSY 29-22. I watched the game and Bowling Green's tough defense almost won the game for them. A blocked punt for a touchdown was the difference.
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The UConn Blog (good name) chronicles a bad year for the Huskies.
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Jeromy Miles Cincinnati stats so far this season.
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James Ihedigbo gets a positive mention and a cover image on this SB Nation's story on the Raven's backups.
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Thursday, December 27, 2012
Recruiting 2013--Lee Wright
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| Image credit unknown |
This article reports UMass' interest. Wright had 140 TT plus a remarkable 6 defensive TD's in 2012.
Rivals page here.
Hudl.com has highlight videos.
Wright switched to defense in 2012.
Also drawing interest from Toledo and UNCC, Furman and App. State in FCS.
Thursday--December 27th, 2012
Josh Morris a 5-10, 185 pound RB who was Rhode Island's Gatorade Player-of-the-Year committed to Brown on Christmas Day.
Morris cited Brown coach Liam Coen as the predominant influence in his decision to commit to Brown.
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Jason Thomas has been chosen to coach the Vermont Shrine Team. Thomas lettered for UMass football in 1997. He was a DB from Poultney, VT.
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The MAC gained its first Bowl Victory of 2012 last night as Central Michigan beat favored Western Kentucky 24-21.
ESPN has instant analysis of Central's win.
Next up for the MAC is Bowling Green vs San Jose State in the Military Bowl today at 1:00 pm. Bowling Green's defense may be the difference.
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Victor Cruz was named to the Pro Bowl.
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Morris cited Brown coach Liam Coen as the predominant influence in his decision to commit to Brown.
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Jason Thomas has been chosen to coach the Vermont Shrine Team. Thomas lettered for UMass football in 1997. He was a DB from Poultney, VT.
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The MAC gained its first Bowl Victory of 2012 last night as Central Michigan beat favored Western Kentucky 24-21.
ESPN has instant analysis of Central's win.
Next up for the MAC is Bowling Green vs San Jose State in the Military Bowl today at 1:00 pm. Bowling Green's defense may be the difference.
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Victor Cruz was named to the Pro Bowl.
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Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Recruiting 2013--Malik Smith II
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| Chris Hays/ Orlando Sentinel image |
I've blogged about Smith once before.
Yesterday's article featuring Smith here.
Rivals two-star recruit.
Hudl.com has his senior highlights.
Smith holds an offer from Indiana.
Wednesday-- December 26th, 2012
As you know, I'm an amateur astronomer. Sometimes I get caught up in the science of it so much that I miss the important stuff. Did everyone see the conjunction of the Moon, Jupiter and Aldebaran last night? Mrs Blog and I took her mother home last evening after a family Christmas get together and I was out in the parking lot and looked up. Jupiter was dazzling point of fire near the Moon. What a beautiful sight ---- and on Christmas!
Jupiter will still be fairly close to the Moon this evening.
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MassLive has an article about Victor Cruz being humbled by his NFL experiences.
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Hustle belt has a story on the best individual football performances in the MAC for 2012. The good news, none of them were against UMass. The bad news, none of them were by a Minuteman.
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A Bleacher Report writer has how Northern Illinois can win the Orange Bowl.
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An ESPN blog says the MAC has not done well in its opening two bowl games.
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Jupiter will still be fairly close to the Moon this evening.
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MassLive has an article about Victor Cruz being humbled by his NFL experiences.
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Hustle belt has a story on the best individual football performances in the MAC for 2012. The good news, none of them were against UMass. The bad news, none of them were by a Minuteman.
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A Bleacher Report writer has how Northern Illinois can win the Orange Bowl.
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An ESPN blog says the MAC has not done well in its opening two bowl games.
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Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Christmas Day--2012
Mrs Blog and I would like to wish all UMass fans, family, players and coaches a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.
May 2013 bring us lots of future All-MAC recruits. May it bring the coaches more wins in 2013.
May the renovations to McGuirk bring some Amherst games to those missing on-campus excitement.
I'm still having fun with the blog and intend to keep it going in 2013. Merry Christmas everybody!
Monday, December 24, 2012
Recruiting 2013--Jarrett Williams
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| Express-Times image |
Named Warren County lineman of the year.
This article features Williams.
Hudl page has video highlights.
Monday-- December 24th, 2012
A Bleacher Report writer grades coaches who moved to other schools and gives Terry Bowden a "D" saying he even managed to lose to UMass.
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The Detroit News says Central Michigan is on the brink of turning the corner.
The News-Sentinel says Ball State bring back a ton of talent for next season.
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Emil Igwenagu made his first NFL start against the Redskins. He did not show up in the offense box score, so apparently he did not get any catches or carries. Emil did record one tackle.
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James Ihedigbo has three tackles and two hits on Eli Manning in the Ravens win over the Giants.
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The Detroit News says Central Michigan is on the brink of turning the corner.
The News-Sentinel says Ball State bring back a ton of talent for next season.
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Emil Igwenagu made his first NFL start against the Redskins. He did not show up in the offense box score, so apparently he did not get any catches or carries. Emil did record one tackle.
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James Ihedigbo has three tackles and two hits on Eli Manning in the Ravens win over the Giants.
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| Comcast Sportsnet image |
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Recruiting 2014--Kurt Holuba
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| Scout.com image |
Holuba's 247 Sports page here.
MaxPreps has his stats here.
Recruiting 2013--Sam Zeff V
I've Blogged about UMass verbal Sam Zeff four times before.
Zeff gets positive mention in this article by NJ.com.
"Just like Lazard, offensive tackle Sam Zeff at 6-5 and 280 pounds, has become big-time. The Mounties seem to run right off his back-side on about 80 percent of the plays they call. It's something about senior year for offensive linemen when you get the most meaningful flashes of what they might become. Zeff is a knee-bender who doesn't shy away from contact. He is physical at the point of attack and really sits down on his blocks in pass pro. Rutgers offered Zeff, but he will instead take his talents to UMass next season."
Zeff gets positive mention in this article by NJ.com.
"Just like Lazard, offensive tackle Sam Zeff at 6-5 and 280 pounds, has become big-time. The Mounties seem to run right off his back-side on about 80 percent of the plays they call. It's something about senior year for offensive linemen when you get the most meaningful flashes of what they might become. Zeff is a knee-bender who doesn't shy away from contact. He is physical at the point of attack and really sits down on his blocks in pass pro. Rutgers offered Zeff, but he will instead take his talents to UMass next season."
Sunday---December 23rd, 2012
The New Haven Register says Don Brown's defection another blow for UConn.
Three UConn players were invited to the Senior Bowl, all from Brown's defense.
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Newsday says whatever he's doing, Victor Cruz takes care of business.
The NY Daily News says one play to Cruz can lift the Giants into the playoffs.
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Brandon London has Hollywood on his mind.
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Three UConn players were invited to the Senior Bowl, all from Brown's defense.
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Newsday says whatever he's doing, Victor Cruz takes care of business.
The NY Daily News says one play to Cruz can lift the Giants into the playoffs.
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Brandon London has Hollywood on his mind.
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Saturday, December 22, 2012
Recruiting 2014--Jimmy Hogan
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| Rivals image |
This story features Hogan.
Hogan's Rivals page here.
Hudl page with video here.
Rutgers is in the lead, but Hogan will take a UMass visit.
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Saturday--December 22nd, 2012
Ball State lost to UCF 38-17 in the Beef O'Brady Bowl last night. the Cardinals were actually more competitive than that, but didn't finish drives. Several trips to the Red Zone produced zero points.
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Fresno State and UNLV in the Big East?
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Chis Hope of the Falcons was fined $30,000 for his hit on Victor Cruz.
Cruz is leading the NFL WR Pro Bowl vote.
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Emil Igwenagu will start for the Eagles at fullback this week.
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Friday, December 21, 2012
Recruiting 2013--Kevin White
Kevin White, a 6-4 210 pound WR from Lackawana JUCO has chosen West Virginia over an offer from UMass.
Story here.
White also received recruiting interest from Texas Tech, Hawaii and Bowling Green.
Story here.
White also received recruiting interest from Texas Tech, Hawaii and Bowling Green.
Recruiting 2013 --- Steve Casali IV
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| Bob Sorensen image |
Casali has now been named All-Division, All-County, All-Long Island and All Metro.
Friday--December 21st, 2012
Remembering that I'm an amateur astronomer, today is the Winter Solstice. The Sun reaches its farthest south today. This solstice was on December 20th or 21st until the year 1697. Since 1702 its been on the 21st or 22nd. The next solstice on the 20th will be in 2080.
The end of the world Maya Calender thing is based on their belief that the world would end at the end of their largest calendar cycle--- but this year isn't it. The largest Maya calendar cycle was called a "pictun", which does not end until the year 4,772. The calender cycle ending today is called a "Baktun" and will just roll over into the next one. Guy Ottwell has a thousand-word essay in this year's Astronomical Calender. Anyway, the world shows no sign of ending here in Jaffrey...
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ESPN looks at the Patriots-Jaguars connections. One connection is Joe Cullen, who is in his third year of coaching the Jags defensive line.
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NESN has more, including video, on Victor Cruz's tribute to one of the Connecticut shooting victims.
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Ball State will represent the MAC in the Beef O'Brady Bowl tonight at 7:30 EST. Hustle Belt has a preview of the game.
A Sports Illustrated author writes the 2012 rise of the MAC conference was one of his favorite moments of the season.
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An ACC blog finds not much to be excited about in the coaching changes at BC except for the hiring of Don Brown.
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The end of the world Maya Calender thing is based on their belief that the world would end at the end of their largest calendar cycle--- but this year isn't it. The largest Maya calendar cycle was called a "pictun", which does not end until the year 4,772. The calender cycle ending today is called a "Baktun" and will just roll over into the next one. Guy Ottwell has a thousand-word essay in this year's Astronomical Calender. Anyway, the world shows no sign of ending here in Jaffrey...
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ESPN looks at the Patriots-Jaguars connections. One connection is Joe Cullen, who is in his third year of coaching the Jags defensive line.
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NESN has more, including video, on Victor Cruz's tribute to one of the Connecticut shooting victims.
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Ball State will represent the MAC in the Beef O'Brady Bowl tonight at 7:30 EST. Hustle Belt has a preview of the game.
A Sports Illustrated author writes the 2012 rise of the MAC conference was one of his favorite moments of the season.
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An ACC blog finds not much to be excited about in the coaching changes at BC except for the hiring of Don Brown.
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Thursday, December 20, 2012
Recruiting 2013 --- Josh Bruns II
When I blogged previously about Josh Bruns, 6-6 295 pound OL from Arizona, I misstated his status.
The signing period for JUCO's has already started, so Brun is UMass' first signing for 2013 as opposed to a verbal commitment.
The UMass web site has an article on Brun's signing.
The signing period for JUCO's has already started, so Brun is UMass' first signing for 2013 as opposed to a verbal commitment.
The UMass web site has an article on Brun's signing.
Thursday--December 20th, 2012
Boston College hired former UMass HC Don Brown as its defensive coordinator yesterday.
SB Nation Boston has a story.
So does the Boston Herald.
The Hartford Courant says its a huge blow for the Huskies.
Andrew Porter of the UConn Blog says it sucks.
I don't think this will be too bad for UMass. Boston College recruits a different universe of players than UMass. Brown might have been a bigger recruiting threat at UConn. Still, its not fun seeing Brown in Huskies blue and now as an Eagle.
All we need now is Jimmie Reid as DC for UConn...
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UMass and BC will not play each other at Gillette next year. The Eagles opted for 1-11 New Mexico State.
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Comcast Sports Philly says injuries have opened the door for Emil Igwenagu.
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Mrs Blog and I took in our first UMass hoops game of the season last night and it was a highly entertaining win over Ohio.
The game notes said Jesse Morgan's 35 points was the most since 1970 when Julius Erving scored 38 against BU. It's highly likely that I attended that game too.
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SB Nation Boston has a story.
So does the Boston Herald.
The Hartford Courant says its a huge blow for the Huskies.
Andrew Porter of the UConn Blog says it sucks.
I don't think this will be too bad for UMass. Boston College recruits a different universe of players than UMass. Brown might have been a bigger recruiting threat at UConn. Still, its not fun seeing Brown in Huskies blue and now as an Eagle.
All we need now is Jimmie Reid as DC for UConn...
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UMass and BC will not play each other at Gillette next year. The Eagles opted for 1-11 New Mexico State.
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Comcast Sports Philly says injuries have opened the door for Emil Igwenagu.
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Mrs Blog and I took in our first UMass hoops game of the season last night and it was a highly entertaining win over Ohio.
The game notes said Jesse Morgan's 35 points was the most since 1970 when Julius Erving scored 38 against BU. It's highly likely that I attended that game too.
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Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Recruiting 2013-- Garrett Fitzgerald II
On Monday I blogged about Garrett Fitzgerald a 6-5 305 pound OL from Catholic Memorial verbaling to UMass.
ESPN has a story about Fitzgerald's journey to UMass.
Fitzgerald drew recruiting attention from BC, Maryland and Penn State as well as UNH and UMass when in HS.
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ESPN has a story about Fitzgerald's journey to UMass.
Fitzgerald drew recruiting attention from BC, Maryland and Penn State as well as UNH and UMass when in HS.
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Wednesday--December 19th, 2012
Harry Plumer has a short story about Victor Cruz visiting the family of one of the Connecticut shooting victims.
WEEI has a little more on Cruz's visit.
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The Boston College blog "BC Interruption" says the Big East should split into two conferences: one with football and one hoops.
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A Bleacher Report writer says UConn should get over it and partner with UMass.
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The RRStar.com says it was Northern Illinois' speed that got them to the Orange Bowl.
The Columbus Star says going to a Bowl is a financial balancing act for MAC teams.
Hustle Belt says Kent State hopes to keep the train moving with Paul Haynes.
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WEEI has a little more on Cruz's visit.
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The Boston College blog "BC Interruption" says the Big East should split into two conferences: one with football and one hoops.
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A Bleacher Report writer says UConn should get over it and partner with UMass.
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The RRStar.com says it was Northern Illinois' speed that got them to the Orange Bowl.
The Columbus Star says going to a Bowl is a financial balancing act for MAC teams.
Hustle Belt says Kent State hopes to keep the train moving with Paul Haynes.
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Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Tuesday--December 18th, 2012
Hary Plumer has an article on the Facility Senate's meeting and what it means. Too bad the citizens of the Commonwealth can't vote on specific programs in UMass. I wonder what kind of return the taxpayers get from the Sociology Department...
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Western Michigan became the third MAC team to add a HC yesterday.
Hustle Belt has more on the hiring of P.J. Fleck as Broncos HC.
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The holiday recruiting "Dead Period" began yesterday.
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The Salem News has a story about Swampscott inducting former players into their athletic Hall-of-Fame. Inducted was Jon Toner. He lettered from UMass in 1974, 75 and 76. Team captain in 1976. First team All-Yankee Conference in 1975. Jon was one of five Toner brothers to play for UMass.
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NJ.com discusses the future of the Big East and mentions UMass would be a "logical" addition (in part III of the story).
ESPN's basketball blog says the Big East should add UMass. It would reunite UMass, UConn and Temple in basketball and football.
CBS Sports says the race is on to be the 6th ranked power conference.
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The Notre Dame blog "On foot Down" makes fun of UMass' uniforms.
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One of the victims of Saturday's shooting will be buried wearing Victor's Cruz's jersey.
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Western Michigan became the third MAC team to add a HC yesterday.
Hustle Belt has more on the hiring of P.J. Fleck as Broncos HC.
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The holiday recruiting "Dead Period" began yesterday.
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The Salem News has a story about Swampscott inducting former players into their athletic Hall-of-Fame. Inducted was Jon Toner. He lettered from UMass in 1974, 75 and 76. Team captain in 1976. First team All-Yankee Conference in 1975. Jon was one of five Toner brothers to play for UMass.
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NJ.com discusses the future of the Big East and mentions UMass would be a "logical" addition (in part III of the story).
ESPN's basketball blog says the Big East should add UMass. It would reunite UMass, UConn and Temple in basketball and football.
CBS Sports says the race is on to be the 6th ranked power conference.
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The Notre Dame blog "On foot Down" makes fun of UMass' uniforms.
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One of the victims of Saturday's shooting will be buried wearing Victor's Cruz's jersey.
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Monday, December 17, 2012
Recruiting 2013-- Alexander Officer and Adrian Robinson
Two players UMass had offered have chosen other schools.
Alexander Officer a three star OL from Rochester, NY has verbaled to Pitt. Besides UMass, Oficer had offers from BC and UConn as well as a host of others.
ESPN insider has a post on Officer's verbal.
Adrian Robinson, a 6-5 232 pound DE from North Carolina verbaled to Colorado State. Besides UMass, Robinson had offers from FCS schools Brown and Columbia.
Alexander Officer a three star OL from Rochester, NY has verbaled to Pitt. Besides UMass, Oficer had offers from BC and UConn as well as a host of others.
ESPN insider has a post on Officer's verbal.
Adrian Robinson, a 6-5 232 pound DE from North Carolina verbaled to Colorado State. Besides UMass, Robinson had offers from FCS schools Brown and Columbia.
Monday---December 17th, 2012
It's a light day on the intertubes for football news. I'll be starting a "What went right and wrong in 2012" series soon. I have some more UMass football history in some scans of game programs from the 1970's
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The Boston College blog "BC Interruption" wonders if UMass could end up in the Big East?
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Forbes has surprising factors driving college football recruits decisions.
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ESPN has more on the seven schools leaving the Big East.
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The Boston College blog "BC Interruption" wonders if UMass could end up in the Big East?
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Forbes has surprising factors driving college football recruits decisions.
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ESPN has more on the seven schools leaving the Big East.
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Sunday, December 16, 2012
Recruiting 2013-- Sam Zeff IV
I've blogged about Sam Zeff, a 6-5 275 pound OL commit from NJ three times before.
He was just named to the First Team All-Essex County squad.
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He was just named to the First Team All-Essex County squad.
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Sunday--December 16th, 2012
Toledo hung with Utah State in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl for three quarter then got crushed in the final 15 minutes.
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The Star Press discusses the challenges of Ball State's trip to Beef O'Brady Bowl. The most interesting part is page 3 where the support from the MAC makes the difference. One phenomena that I have noticed is a number of people in the school's academic community take the importunity to travel to the bowl site on the Athletic Department's tab.
Prudent assessment of the traveling party makes a difference.
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The Big East Catholic schools won't be able to leave until 2015, which should give the A10 some breathing room to plan it's defense.
The MAC should make a pitch for Army, Navy and Cincinnati in football to bring the league to 16 teams. All would be a good geographic fit and would add some flavor to the all state run institutions.
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Some people wonder if Temple would have been better off to stay in the MAC and A10.
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The Star Press discusses the challenges of Ball State's trip to Beef O'Brady Bowl. The most interesting part is page 3 where the support from the MAC makes the difference. One phenomena that I have noticed is a number of people in the school's academic community take the importunity to travel to the bowl site on the Athletic Department's tab.
Prudent assessment of the traveling party makes a difference.
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The Big East Catholic schools won't be able to leave until 2015, which should give the A10 some breathing room to plan it's defense.
The MAC should make a pitch for Army, Navy and Cincinnati in football to bring the league to 16 teams. All would be a good geographic fit and would add some flavor to the all state run institutions.
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Some people wonder if Temple would have been better off to stay in the MAC and A10.
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Saturday, December 15, 2012
Recruiting 2014-- Tyrone Washington
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| Vin Carchietta image. |
Washington's ESPN page here.
His 2012 stats from MaxPreps.
Caught the winning TD for Paramus over Bergen Catholic to win the state title.
Huld has video highlights.
Washington also holds an offer from Rutgers.
Saturday--December 15th, 2012
On the Ides of December.
The Idaho Statesman looks at #MACtion.
The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl is today at 4:30. Viewing details here. Toledo will represent the MAC in the first of seven bowls for the conference. The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl is the longest-running cold weather bowl.
ESPN on the MAC's rise to prominence.
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Victor Cruz campaigns for the Pro Bowl.
ESPN New York says Victor Cruz has something to prove.
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Andy Reid comments on Emil Igwenagu's first game action for the Eagles (towards the end of the story).
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Bengals survive another sloppy game.
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Sources say the Big East will play football in 2013.
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The Idaho Statesman looks at #MACtion.
The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl is today at 4:30. Viewing details here. Toledo will represent the MAC in the first of seven bowls for the conference. The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl is the longest-running cold weather bowl.
ESPN on the MAC's rise to prominence.
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Victor Cruz campaigns for the Pro Bowl.
ESPN New York says Victor Cruz has something to prove.
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Andy Reid comments on Emil Igwenagu's first game action for the Eagles (towards the end of the story).
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| Jeromy Miles celebrates after win over the Eagles/AP IMage Michael Perez |
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Sources say the Big East will play football in 2013.
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Friday, December 14, 2012
Recruiting 2013--- Sharif Custis II
I've blogged about Sharif Custis before. The 6-4 200 pound athlete verbaled to UMass on December 2nd.
This article from South Philly.com features Custis.
In an article I missed during the first time around, Custis was named the top TE out of 1160 partricipants in a summer SPARQ combine.
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This article from South Philly.com features Custis.
In an article I missed during the first time around, Custis was named the top TE out of 1160 partricipants in a summer SPARQ combine.
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Friday-- December 14th, 2012
It looks like the Big East is going to break up. This could have a big impact on UMass sports depending on if the Minutemen are part of a new super-basketball conference or part of a reduced A10.
Matty V has an article that is behind the pay wall.
Harry Plumer says John McCutcheon refuses to speculate.
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The MAC blog Hustle Belt comments on the UMass facility's machinations.
BC Interruption says BC could play UMass at Gillette in 2013. That would solve 2013 attendance worries right there.
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The MAC Report online has MAC bowl notes and schedules.
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Football Scoop as a video of Neal Brown showing Kentucky recruits his offense.
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A Weston High twirler was excited to appear with the UMMB on Band Day at Gillette.
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Matty V has an article that is behind the pay wall.
Harry Plumer says John McCutcheon refuses to speculate.
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The MAC blog Hustle Belt comments on the UMass facility's machinations.
BC Interruption says BC could play UMass at Gillette in 2013. That would solve 2013 attendance worries right there.
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The MAC Report online has MAC bowl notes and schedules.
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Football Scoop as a video of Neal Brown showing Kentucky recruits his offense.
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A Weston High twirler was excited to appear with the UMMB on Band Day at Gillette.
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Thursday, December 13, 2012
Thursday--December 13th, 2012
Perry McIntyre and Darren Thellen were named to Phil Steele's All-MAC squad.
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More on the Facility Senate's complaints about football.
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MAC recruiters (including UMass) mine the Tampa Bay area for players.
Hustle Belt has four MAC players as AP All-Americans.
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A simulated 16 team college football playoff.
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More on the Facility Senate's complaints about football.
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MAC recruiters (including UMass) mine the Tampa Bay area for players.
Hustle Belt has four MAC players as AP All-Americans.
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A simulated 16 team college football playoff.
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Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Wednesday--December 12th, 2012
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| Philly.com image |
Matty V's blog appears to have evaded the pay wall so far. Yea! I miss Matty.
Two from GoPhilly.com:
Eagles promote Igwenagu.
Versatile Igwenagu likely to debut vs. Bengals.
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The Boston Globe has an article on attendance at Gillette. It escapes me that anyone can draw any conclusions after five games at Gillette. Finances will improve next year as we will receive full guarantees from FBS games and we will also receive more support from the MAC.
It just takes time to move an FCS program to FBS. To me, the criticism looks more ideologically driven than anything else.
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MassLive has another article on Rob Blanchflower being named as a Captain for the 2013 Minutemen.
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Hustle Belt thinks the MAC will prosper again next year.
The MAC is trying to trademark the hash tag #MACaction.
The MAC and the Sum Belt share traits of success.
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OT:
Will the A10 end up as a basketball super-conference?
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Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Recruiting 2013-- Josh Bruns
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| Scout.com image |
Scout.com page here.
First Team All-State and First Team All-District.
Recruiting 2013-- Peter Ngobidi III
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| Image credit unknown |
This article features Ngobidi.
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Recruiting 2013 --- Julian Taylor II
I've blogged about Julian Taylor, a 6-5 230 pound DE who verbaled to UMass earlier in December before.
This article (page 2), has his 2013 stats.
This article has Taylor commenting on his verbal to UMass.
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This article (page 2), has his 2013 stats.
This article has Taylor commenting on his verbal to UMass.
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Tuesday --December 11th, 2012
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| Thom Kendall image |
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College football had its lowest annual attendance since 2003.
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CBS Sports says Northern Illinois' rise to a BCS bowl was years in the making.
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UMass has future contract with Colorado in 2014, 2015 and 2019. The Buffs went 1-11 this year and just hired a new coach.
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It's official, Neal Brown will be OC at Kentucky.
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Monday, December 10, 2012
Recruiting 2013-- Ishmael Hyman II
I've blogged about Ishmael Hyman before.
The New Jersey WR was perhaps the highest ranked player UMass has offered to.
Looks like he's going to Kansas.
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The New Jersey WR was perhaps the highest ranked player UMass has offered to.
Looks like he's going to Kansas.
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Monday--December 10th, 2012
CBS Sports has UMass among it's "Dreadful Dozen", the college football teams that struggled the most in 2012.
The article mentions Texas State and Texas San Antonio. Texas State played a good FCS team in Stephen F. Austin, but also padded their schedule with New Mexico State (1-11) and Idaho (1-11). They also beat fellow newbie Texas San-Antonio. The Bobcats did have a nice win at Houston.
Texas San-Antonio Road Runners went 8-4, but played two transitional FBS teams (South Alabama and Texas State), two FCS teams (Georgia State and McNeese State) as well as the two 1-11 teams listed above and somebody named Northwest Oklahoma State (DII, I think). That's a far cry from the seven bowl teams the Minutemen played.
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Neal Brown will join Mark Stoops at Kentucky.
Another article about Brown's hiring here.
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MAC Blog Hustle Belt says the MAC will be back in the BCS again in 2014.
Hustle Belt also has the de-evolution of the WAC.
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BC appears to be losing a verbal to Iowa.
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College football is becoming a magnet for advertising dollars.
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The article mentions Texas State and Texas San Antonio. Texas State played a good FCS team in Stephen F. Austin, but also padded their schedule with New Mexico State (1-11) and Idaho (1-11). They also beat fellow newbie Texas San-Antonio. The Bobcats did have a nice win at Houston.
Texas San-Antonio Road Runners went 8-4, but played two transitional FBS teams (South Alabama and Texas State), two FCS teams (Georgia State and McNeese State) as well as the two 1-11 teams listed above and somebody named Northwest Oklahoma State (DII, I think). That's a far cry from the seven bowl teams the Minutemen played.
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Neal Brown will join Mark Stoops at Kentucky.
Another article about Brown's hiring here.
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MAC Blog Hustle Belt says the MAC will be back in the BCS again in 2014.
Hustle Belt also has the de-evolution of the WAC.
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BC appears to be losing a verbal to Iowa.
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College football is becoming a magnet for advertising dollars.
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Sunday, December 09, 2012
Recruiting 2014--Rory Donovan
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| Gary Higgins image |
Donovan's Rivals page here.
Quote from the Eagle Action article on Donovan:
"I've gotten some recruiting interest recently from Maryland, Boston College and UMass," he said. "Nobody has offered yet, but hopefully I'll get something in the future.
"All the schools are saying they are interested in me. They just want me to gain a little more weight. They like that I'm tall, but I'm lanky. Once I get more meat on me, then I'll look great. They are all really interested."
Does Donovan like anyone?
"Yeah, I like Boston College and I really do like UMass," he said. "I like UMass cause there are guys there I know like Adrian Doyle, the quarterback. They are fun to watch.
Sunday--December 9th, 2012
CT Post looks at the problems UConn has in attracting higher level recruits. Mentions UMass.
Boise State has made a living on two and three star recruits. UMass will have to do something similar.
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The MAC was ranked second eleven conferences in overall selections to the Walter Camp All-Academic Teams.
Central Michigan Life says all MAC conference members, including UMass, will share the the BCS money earned by Northern Illinois' Orange bowl invite.
Meanwhile, Buffalo's new AD looks to improve the Bulls facility and stadium.
Berry Tramel's Blog says if you want to make it in coaching, get to the MAC.
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Could Neal Brown be a candidate for HC at Texas Tech?
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Boise State has made a living on two and three star recruits. UMass will have to do something similar.
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The MAC was ranked second eleven conferences in overall selections to the Walter Camp All-Academic Teams.
Central Michigan Life says all MAC conference members, including UMass, will share the the BCS money earned by Northern Illinois' Orange bowl invite.
Meanwhile, Buffalo's new AD looks to improve the Bulls facility and stadium.
Berry Tramel's Blog says if you want to make it in coaching, get to the MAC.
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Could Neal Brown be a candidate for HC at Texas Tech?
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Saturday, December 08, 2012
Recruiting 2013-- Cameron Nash
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| Frances Micklow image |
NJ.com article featuring Nash here.
Nash's stats here. Rushed for 1,011 yards and over 7 yards/carry.
Rushed for 26-216 and 4 TDs in the North Jersey playoffs.
Junior year highlights above.
Nash also has interest from Temple.
Saturday--December 8th, 2012
Harry Plumer of MassLive has details of the 2013 UMass football season.
What is known so far:
8/31/13: at Wisconsin
9/7/13: v. Maine
9/14/13: at Kansas State
9/21/13: v. Vanderbilt
TBD: v. Northern Illinois
TBD: at Central Michigan
TBD: v. Western Michigan
TBD: at Bowling Green
TBD: v. Akron
TBD: at Buffalo
TBD: v. Miami (Ohio)
TBD: at Ohio
This is a MUCH BETTER schedule than 2012. For one thing, we have an FCS game, which is local and should draw some Maine fans. UMass should get an early win, to keep fan interest up.
In addition, it appears we will have only one late November game at home. November games cut into attendance all over the North. The idea is to host as few as possible. The early part of the schedule is packed again with Wisconsin, Kansas State, Vanderbilt and Northern Illinois. However, we miss Toledo and Kent State. The Minutemen should be competitive with the rest of the schedule.
UMass will still need a couple more recruiting classes to contend with the top level of the MAC, but 2013 looks like an exciting year.
Mrs blog and I are already planning a trip to Madison, WI.
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Most college football odds sites such as this one, have MAC teams underdogs in six of the seven bowl games. Only Kent State is a favorite.
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Neal Brown to join Stoops in Kentucky?
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What is known so far:
8/31/13: at Wisconsin
9/7/13: v. Maine
9/14/13: at Kansas State
9/21/13: v. Vanderbilt
TBD: v. Northern Illinois
TBD: at Central Michigan
TBD: v. Western Michigan
TBD: at Bowling Green
TBD: v. Akron
TBD: at Buffalo
TBD: v. Miami (Ohio)
TBD: at Ohio
This is a MUCH BETTER schedule than 2012. For one thing, we have an FCS game, which is local and should draw some Maine fans. UMass should get an early win, to keep fan interest up.
In addition, it appears we will have only one late November game at home. November games cut into attendance all over the North. The idea is to host as few as possible. The early part of the schedule is packed again with Wisconsin, Kansas State, Vanderbilt and Northern Illinois. However, we miss Toledo and Kent State. The Minutemen should be competitive with the rest of the schedule.
UMass will still need a couple more recruiting classes to contend with the top level of the MAC, but 2013 looks like an exciting year.
Mrs blog and I are already planning a trip to Madison, WI.
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Most college football odds sites such as this one, have MAC teams underdogs in six of the seven bowl games. Only Kent State is a favorite.
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Neal Brown to join Stoops in Kentucky?
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Friday, December 07, 2012
Friday--December 7th, 2012
Harry Plumer of MassLive continues his series on post-season position analysis and covers UMass quarterbacks.
Interesting that Coach Molnar mentions only A.J. Doyle and Mike Wegzyn. RSJr Kellen Pagel and Soph Brandon Hill are not apparently in the mix.
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The ESPN Boston 2012 MIAA All-State Team contains one UMass verbal (Peter Ngobidi) and two players UMass is recruiting (Jonathan Thomas and Jon Baker).
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Philly.com has a snippet about UMass verbals Brandon Peoples and Sharif Custis.
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ESPN has the MAC finishing ranked 8th in the regular season conference poll.
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Army fullback Larry Dixon---- college football's most pummeled man.
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Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delaney says Northeast demographics matter.
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Interesting that Coach Molnar mentions only A.J. Doyle and Mike Wegzyn. RSJr Kellen Pagel and Soph Brandon Hill are not apparently in the mix.
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The ESPN Boston 2012 MIAA All-State Team contains one UMass verbal (Peter Ngobidi) and two players UMass is recruiting (Jonathan Thomas and Jon Baker).
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Philly.com has a snippet about UMass verbals Brandon Peoples and Sharif Custis.
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ESPN has the MAC finishing ranked 8th in the regular season conference poll.
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Army fullback Larry Dixon---- college football's most pummeled man.
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Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delaney says Northeast demographics matter.
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Thursday, December 06, 2012
Recruiting 2013 --- Brandon Peoples
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| Carl Kosola image |
Originally signed with Temple in 2011. Ended up doing a semester in prep school.
ESPN page here.
Anytime you sign a RB who's nickname is "Smash" that's got to be a good thing :)
Recruiting 2013 --- Shane Huber II
I've blogged about UMass verbal Shane Huber before.
Huber was just named HCIAL Red Division Defensive Player of the Year.
Help is on the way for the UMass LB corps. Huber is 6-3 230, which is FBS size.
Huber was just named HCIAL Red Division Defensive Player of the Year.
Help is on the way for the UMass LB corps. Huber is 6-3 230, which is FBS size.
Thursday--December 6th, 2012
The Hampshire Gazette has moved UMass sports stories behind a paywall. Readers can register and get five looks free a month. That's not a lot.
Like me, most non-Valley readers aren't interested in Northampton news. It's probably going to have a negative impact on UMass sports, who can use all the publicity they can get.
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Former UMass coach Jimmie Reid was fired along with three other Virginia coaches yesterday.
One Virginia recruit has already reopened his recruiting.
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The Eastern Michigan paper "The Eastern Echo" has an article on the seven MAC teams in bowl games this year.
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Steve Addazio is taking a number of Temple assistants to BC. Could Jimmie Reid end up there too?
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Cleveland.com looks at Kent State's Darrell Hazell's moving to Purdue.
Relevant quote from the above article:
"Hazell becomes the 13th former head coach from the MAC in current Football Bowl Subdivision head-coaching positions, including five in the Big Ten and both coaches in this year's BCS Championship Game -- Alabama's Nick Saban (Toledo) and Notre Dame's Brian Kelly (Central Michigan).
Next season, 26 of the 124 FBS coaches (21 percent) would be either current or former MAC head coaches."
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Like me, most non-Valley readers aren't interested in Northampton news. It's probably going to have a negative impact on UMass sports, who can use all the publicity they can get.
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Former UMass coach Jimmie Reid was fired along with three other Virginia coaches yesterday.
One Virginia recruit has already reopened his recruiting.
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The Eastern Michigan paper "The Eastern Echo" has an article on the seven MAC teams in bowl games this year.
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Steve Addazio is taking a number of Temple assistants to BC. Could Jimmie Reid end up there too?
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Cleveland.com looks at Kent State's Darrell Hazell's moving to Purdue.
Relevant quote from the above article:
"Hazell becomes the 13th former head coach from the MAC in current Football Bowl Subdivision head-coaching positions, including five in the Big Ten and both coaches in this year's BCS Championship Game -- Alabama's Nick Saban (Toledo) and Notre Dame's Brian Kelly (Central Michigan).
Next season, 26 of the 124 FBS coaches (21 percent) would be either current or former MAC head coaches."
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Wednesday, December 05, 2012
Recruiting 2014---Jonathan Thomas III
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| ESPN Boston image |
This article has his stats for 2012.
Wednesday-- December 5th, 2012
ESPN has updated their UMass recruiting page to reflect the three recent verbals.
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The MAC loses another coach, this time Kent State's Darrell Hazell to Purdue.
Hazell was the MAC Coach-of-the-Year.
The Chicago Tribune says NIU belongs in the Orange Bowl.
BTW, the Huskies are offering students free tickets to the Orange Bowl.
One of the problems with the whole bowl system is that they make the schools buy a block of tickets at unrealistic prices. If the MAC was not going to protect NIU, the Huskies would be looking at selling tickets at $75 to $225 a pop. The same tickets are available on line for $8.00.
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Meanwhile, Boston College hires Temple's Steve Addazio as HC.
BC Interruption reacts.
Addazio is from New England. UMass could face increased recruiting competition in the Northeast. Traditionally, the Eagles have tried to recruit nationally with little success. Addazio could try to change the focus to a more regional approach.
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The MAC loses another coach, this time Kent State's Darrell Hazell to Purdue.
Hazell was the MAC Coach-of-the-Year.
The Chicago Tribune says NIU belongs in the Orange Bowl.
BTW, the Huskies are offering students free tickets to the Orange Bowl.
One of the problems with the whole bowl system is that they make the schools buy a block of tickets at unrealistic prices. If the MAC was not going to protect NIU, the Huskies would be looking at selling tickets at $75 to $225 a pop. The same tickets are available on line for $8.00.
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Meanwhile, Boston College hires Temple's Steve Addazio as HC.
BC Interruption reacts.
Addazio is from New England. UMass could face increased recruiting competition in the Northeast. Traditionally, the Eagles have tried to recruit nationally with little success. Addazio could try to change the focus to a more regional approach.
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Tuesday, December 04, 2012
Tuesday--December 4th, 2012
Matty V. has a story about recruiting and two players transferring. WR Brian Dowling and OL John Wallace are leaving.
MassLive also covers Wallace leaving.
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Harry Plumer of MassLive discusses the state of UMass' offensive skill players. He reports Stacey Bedell did get a medical redshirt after suffering an early season injury.
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UMass will not receive a cut of the MAC's revenue from this year's bowl games. The Minutemen were not eligible for either a bowl or for the conference championship.
Next year we will be. UMass also received a reduced guarantee from OOC games. That will also change in 2013 and will provide a substantial increase in revenue to the program.
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Hustle Belt comments on ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit's dissing the MAC during the bowl selection show.
The MAC Daily predicts the MAC bowl results.
Kent State's Darrell Hazell is fielding job offer rumors.
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Brian Kelley offers advise to coaches looking to build a program.
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MassLive also covers Wallace leaving.
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Harry Plumer of MassLive discusses the state of UMass' offensive skill players. He reports Stacey Bedell did get a medical redshirt after suffering an early season injury.
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UMass will not receive a cut of the MAC's revenue from this year's bowl games. The Minutemen were not eligible for either a bowl or for the conference championship.
Next year we will be. UMass also received a reduced guarantee from OOC games. That will also change in 2013 and will provide a substantial increase in revenue to the program.
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Hustle Belt comments on ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit's dissing the MAC during the bowl selection show.
The MAC Daily predicts the MAC bowl results.
Kent State's Darrell Hazell is fielding job offer rumors.
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Brian Kelley offers advise to coaches looking to build a program.
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Monday, December 03, 2012
Recruiting 2012--Sharif Custis and Jackson Porter
Several sources report UMass has added two verbals to the Minutemen's 2012 class.
Sharif Custis is a 6-3 210 pound athlete from St. John Neuman HS in Philadelphia. He played both TE and DE in HS.
Philly.com has an article on Custis' verbal to UMass.
ESPN's player page has him running a 4.63 40.
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Jackson Porter is a 6-1, 185 pound athlete from Ellicott City, MD.
I've blogged about Jackson Porter before.
The video above has been added since my previous blog post.
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Sharif Custis is a 6-3 210 pound athlete from St. John Neuman HS in Philadelphia. He played both TE and DE in HS.
Philly.com has an article on Custis' verbal to UMass.
ESPN's player page has him running a 4.63 40.
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Jackson Porter is a 6-1, 185 pound athlete from Ellicott City, MD.
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| Porter #7/ Nate Pierce image |
The video above has been added since my previous blog post.
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