Sunday--November 30th, 2015

After today, I'll probably return to the off-season no-updates-on-Sunday schedule. I've cranked out posts seven days a week since August.

Below are four images from the game Friday. Click on the image and Blogger displays a larger view.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ron Chimelis says all things considered UMass made solid progress.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass looks ahead to the 2015 season for better or for worse.

The Collegian said the Minutemen defense came up short.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The MAC Conference championship between NIU and Bowling Green will be next Friday.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday-- November 29th, 2014

Let's first focus on a good thing. The turnout for yesterday's game was fantastic. Friday looked and felt like UMass had scheduled a game on January 15th. It was below freezing all day and the snow cover made it feel even colder. Despite this, Minutemen fans turned out in large numbers. Lot's of kids and families. When some sports writer says UMass fans are not interested, e-mail him and tell him to STFU.

In fact, I think UMass led the MAC in attendance yesterday. Fans were clearing snow off  the seats to find a place to sit.

1. Toledo-EMU 15,226, remember EMU earlier this year said there were 19,000 at this game.

2. UMass-Buffalo 13, 417
3. NIU-WMU 11,195 (two teams with a combined 20-6 record)
4.  Ball State-BGU 8,534
5.  Kent State-Akron 5,118.

Take a bow UMass fans!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

As for the game, Buffalo looked bigger, faster stronger. I don't know how it looked on ESPN, but in person the size differential between the Bull offense and the Minutemen defense was striking. Buffalo had a bigger offensive line, a faster running back and a better QB.

Austin Whipple played better. He had at least four drops, which did not help.

I really hope we add some defensive recruits this recruiting cycle. We can't expect next year for Blake Frohnapfel to win every game 45-42.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone says a frustrated Coach Whipple is looking for answers. Actually, in the article Whipple said he knows what to do: R-E-C-R-U-I-T.

Dan also has five takeaways from the Buffalo game.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty Vautour says Austin Whipple looks to be in the mix to back up Frohnapfel next year.

Matty has slow starting UMass falls to the Bulls 41-21.

Matty also says UMass finds its motivation for 2015.

------------------------------------------------------------------

The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass falls to Buffalo 41-21.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

All the MAC results here.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Eric Frohnapfel had two TD's in Marshall's 67-66 loss to Western Kentucky (and no that's not a basketball score)

------------------------------------------------------------

Game Day---Buffalo November 28th, 2014

We had 15+ inches of snow yesterday. Our internet service was down most of the day, but the power stayed on, which was a blessing because everybody was coming to our house for Thanksgiving dinner. No TV either, because our satellite dish on the roof is buried.

------------------------------------------------------------------

All right, let's close out 2014 with a victory. The day is going to be chilly, but partly sunny. Four wins will be a good step up from 1. The Minutemen have enough talent to beat the Bulls even without Blake Frohnapfel.

We need to run the rock, not turn the ball over and score some points. UMass still has Tajae Sharpe, Jean Sifrin and a good offensive scheme. UMass needs to play with emotion and send the seniors out with a win.

I'll be there and hope to see a good crowd of UMass fans too.

Let's go UMass!!!

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone says UMass looks to finish the season on a high note.

Dan has media information for those who can't make it to Amherst.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty Vautour reports UMass seniors prepare for their final game.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Jesse Allen of Hustle Belt looks at the Minutemen-Bulls game.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Buffalo News picks the Bulls 34-16.

The Buffalo News says the Bulls offensive line takes their final bow.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

The Boston Herald says Austin Whipple is in line for his second start.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Stanley Andre #35/ click on image for a larger view

The UMass Daily Collegian reports Stanley Andre reflects on his UMass career.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanksgiving--November 27th, 2014

Hey, I'm thankful for my country. I'm thankful for Mrs Blog, who is the best thing that ever happened to me. I'm thankful for UMass Football, so that I have something to obsess about. Happy Thanksgiving to all UMass fans and readers.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Jean Sifrin

Jean Sifrin weighs declaring for the NFL Draft. Complex decision. Anytime a football player steps on the field, it could be their last. To me, the decision would be if Sifrin would be drafted and how high. The amount of guaranteed money rises almost exponentially for draft position. Free agency is not a good deal. Being drafted means the team is vested in the player. Rob Blanchflower was placed on IR and given time to recover, something that probably not happen to a free agent.

In addition, agents and teams are working for their own benefit. What they say is not necessarily what will happen. If Sifrin is certain he be drafted above the fifth round than he should declare at his age.

If not, then another college year and a potential bowl game, could boost him to a much bigger payout next season.

Matty Vautour says a winding road has brought Jean Sifrin close to a NFL career.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

A Bleacher Report writer says UMass wins against Buffalo if Frohnapfel plays.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The MAC Conference reprimands four CMU players who refused to shake hands.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Yahoo Sports bowl predictions.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Now I've got to go shovel more snow....

Wednesday--November 26th, 2014

UMass athletic dept Tweet

UPDATE 1:40 PM:   UMass practice this morning. Here in Jaffrey, NH we've got about eight inches so far.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass has its game notes for Buffalo up.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone says Blake Lucas will do extra points and field goals against Buffalo.

Going into the Buffalo game UMass is last in the MAC in punting: 50-1764 35.3 AVE 79 Ret 1.6 AVE 4 TB 32.1 Net Punting AVE.

UMass is #12 (ahead of only Buffalo) in field goals 6-11 .543 Pct. Don't look for Friday's game to be decided by a 50 yarder.

The Minutemen are 13th (last) in PAT going 35-41 .854 Pct.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The last practice for the seniors is always an emotional time. Unlike other sports, most football players don't ever again get to put on the pads and play as a team.

This Football Scoop article talks about how teams send their seniors off after the last practice.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Buffalo News reports on Blake Frohnapfel probably being out for the Bulls game.

The Buffalo News also says the frustrated Bulls are intent on a big finish against UMass.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

This article on Wagner football mentions current UMass defensive coordinator Tom Mesella.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ohio beat Miami on a last second field goal to become bowl eligible last night.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

The MAC Conference will investigate Central Michigan's captain's refusal to shake hands at CMU-Western Michigan game.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sports Cheat Sheet names Victor Cruz as one of the top five all-time undrafted wide receivers.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Brandon London will return to Explosive Training Systems.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday--November 25th, 2014

Blake Frohnapfel

Blake Frohnapfel has won the Bulger Lowe Award. Presented by the Gridiron Club of Boston, it's often referred to as the "New England Heisman". The Gridiron Club of Boston's website. Previous year's award winners.

Previous UMass recipients were:


Kole Ay - 2000 - Defense
Khari Samuel - 1998 - Defense
Rene Ingoglia - 1995 - Offense
Dave Palazzi - 1988 - Offense
Garry Pearson - 1982 - Offense (fixed)
Greg Landry - 1967
Jerry Whelchel - 1964

That's a pretty good group folks!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mark Whipple's quotes from yesterday's MAC Conference teleconference.

Dan Malone reviews Whipple's talking points.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass has Todd Stafford taking reps at QB to back up Austin Whipple for Friday's game.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Minutemen center Matt Sparks says the UMass OL needs to help Austin Whipple to be successful.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The Boston Globe says UMass wants to finish the season on a high note.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sports Chat Place says Buffalo wins Friday "with ease"

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Keepers College Football Ratings says the Minutemen by 5.56.

Vegas Insider has UMass by 7.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matt Stewart of the Leominster Sentinel & Enterprise looks back at covering UMass football. Mentions former UMass greats and current UMass freshman Jerell Addo.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

NIU and Western Michigan meet for the MAC East Championship Friday.

Ohio has a bowl bid on the line against Miami.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday--November 24th, 2014

UMass Athletic Dept image

Mrs Blog and I may hit the Hadley Mall after the game...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Buffalo Bulls team is upset by the cancellation of their game against Kent Stat. Defensive lineman Kristjan Sokoli says "A win against UMass will solve everything for us".

The Bulls keep their opponents guessing about run or pass.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Minutemen's loss to Akron, dropped UMass to 9th in the Hustle Belt MAC power rankings.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

After Saturday's games, UMass is still tied for second in the MAC east. Scroll down on the MAC Conference page to get the standings.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

James Ihedigbo says the Lions still have a great defense. Ihedigbo had one INT against the Pats and just missed another.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Full FCS playoff bracket here. UNH got a bye in the first round as CAA champs.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunday--November 23rd, 2014

UMass Athletic Dept image

Randall Jette in 2014 has gone 30 UT 22 AT 58 TT (fifth on the team) 0.5-0 TFL 4-49 INT (leads team) 14 BKUP 18 PD 1 FF. That's 3rd in the nation in passes defended per game.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the only MAC game yesterday, Ball State beat EMU 45-30.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monmouth QB Brandon Hill, a UMass transfer went 13-29 161 in his final collegiate game , a victory over Gardner Webb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Detroit Free Press reports James Ihedigbo learned his work ethic from his immigrant parent's time in Amherst.

Bill Belichick says James Ihedigbo is important to the Lions defense.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

UNH turned the ball over six times, but squeaked out a 20-12 win over Maine to win the CAA title yesterday.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ladainian Tomlinson's collegiate rushing single game record of 406 yards stood for 15 years---and now it's been broken two weeks in a row.

Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon could break Barry Sanders' single season NCAA rushing record.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday--November 22nd, 2014

Dan Malone reports Austin Whipple said "I need to play better". Blake Frohnapfel watched Friday's practice on crutches...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty Vautour reports Austin Whipple is hoping to improve in his second game.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hustle Belt previews today MAC conference game between Eastern Michigan and Ball State.

Ball State's 3-7 season is causing the Cardinal's head coach Pete Lembo's stock to drop.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

UConn coach Bob Diaco says Husky football was a giant mess---and now it's a smaller mess.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BC gets #1 Florida State today.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Longtime rivals UNH and Maine square off in Orono. A win will give UNH an undefeated FCS season and a #1 seed going into the FCS playoffs.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

A ESPN Poll says most college coaches favor an eight team playoff.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday--November 21, 2014

The MAC Conference has canceled Buffalo-Kent State. Dan Malone has a story about the cancellation.

Buffalo players react to the cancellation.

Blame Kent State's equipment truck driver.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass Athletic Dept image

Jovan Santos-Knox is having a monster season.

Single season record

Total Tackles:

1. 140.5 Kole Ayi 1998 (15 games)
2. 136.5 Khari Samuel 1998 (15 games)
3. 129.0 Jovan Santos-Knox 2014 (11 games)
4. 123.0 Justin Riemer 1996 (11 games)

He's fourth in the nation in tackles/game. Note Stanley Andre is 20th.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coach Whipple is in the middle of the pack in head coaches compensation.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Western Michigan's HC P.J. Fleck has been named a semi-finalist for the Maxwell Coach of the Year.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Jerron Seymour a RB at Vanderbilt who had 57 yards and a TD against UMass last year, has been dismissed from the team.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

USA Today says rugby punts are bounding through college football.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday--November 20th, 2014

The Boston Globe said UMass football was in a deep freeze in Akron.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Fresno Bee reports Akron QB Kyle Pohl and the Akron Zips beat UMass.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass trainer Jennifer Brodeur gets a number of quotes in this article on high school football helmets.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Toledo beat Bowling Green last night to keep their hope of a MAC West title alive.

Hustle Belt said that's five in a row for the the Rockets over Bowling Green.

Because of the snow emergency in Buffalo the Bulls game against Kent State was postponed.

More on the postponed game here and here.

---------------------------------------------------------------

Blake Frohnapfel's old team, undefeated Marshall is looking to prove itself against top competition.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Detroit News says James Ihedigbo is thriving with the Lions.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

OT: but after losing 72-40 to John Calipari's Kentucky team Kansas' head coach Bill Self says the Wildcats could go undefeated. Includes a quote from Calipari about his UMass teams.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday--November 19th, 2014

Well, UMass lost to Akron who looked bigger, stronger and faster. The defense blew one coverage, but other than that the Minutemen were obviously trying to keep the Zips in front of them. Late in the game the announcers said Akron had 60-something plays and 40 of them were on the Minutemen side of the field. The defense forced two fumbles and competed all night.

Our kicking game was terrible, as usual. We missed an extra point and had an eight-yard punt.

Without Frohnapfel, the UMass offense was anemic. Austin Whipple threw three INT's. The Zips defense controlled the line of scrimmage and then some. Time after time, Akron blew up running plays. The Minutemen had 67 yards rushing.  The Zips front seven looked a lot faster than the UMass offense. Whipple only had one sack, but was hurried on many plays.

So we learned (I learned) what we already knew: Coach Whipple still has a number of pieces missing from a winning team. He needs a couple of more recruiting classes.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Not a lot of press coverage for a Tuesday night game.

UMass write-up on the game.

The Zips website says Akron cruised by the Minutemen.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone says UMass was out-manned and overmatched.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Hampshire Gazette said Austin Whipple and UMass struggled in the Akron cold.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The UMass Daily Collegian reports UMass fell 30-6 at Akron.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Ohio.com has observations on the Zips 30-6 win.

----------------------------------------------------------------

In the other MAC game last night, NIU beat the Ohio Bobcats 24-14.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

ESPN looks at Texas Tech who is struggling with a 3-7 season. Their coach says they're focusing on the future. You know you're having a bad season when your defensive coordinator shows up drunk for a morning staff meeting...

------------------------------------------------------------------

Game Day--Akron November 18th, 2014

Well, today it'll be an uphill battle for our Minutemen. The weather is supposed to be in the middle teens with wind and snow showers----not the best conditions for UMass' vertical passing attack. In addition, we will likely start a QB who has never thrown a pass in college.

It's a day to run the rock. We can hope that the UMass defense will have another energized day and get some turnovers. A short field for the offense would make a big difference. I don't know what to make of Akron, last week with supposedly one of the best defenses in the MAC, they gave up 55 points to a mediocre Buffalo team.

With bad weather and a nearly empty stadium, it'll probably come down to who wants it more. Football is one sport that you need to play with emotion. If you want to play in the pros, you have turn it on when the light goes green.

Go UMass!!!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

UPDATE 7:45 PM:

Offshore Gaming.com says the UMass QB situation is cloudy

-----------------------------------------------------

UPDATE 3:45 PM:

The Akron Journal has four keys to beating UMass.

Pregame.com likes the "over" odds on the Minutemen vs Zips game.

CBS Sports has UMass rising out the their "bottom 25".

Fansided.com thinks Blake Frohnapfel will play against Akron.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coach Whipple's comments from Monday's MAC teleconference.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lots of news today.

Jean Sifrin was named a semi-finalist for the Mackey TE Award. Phil Steele also mentions Sifrin.

UMass write-up on Sifrin.

Dan Malone has a story about Sifrin being named to the semi-finalist list.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tajae Sharpe was named the MAC offensive player-of-the-week.

Dan Malone has more on Sharpe.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan previews the UMass-Akron game.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty V. reports Blake Frohnapfel will be a game-time decision.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The UMass Daily Collegian says the Minutemen will look to run the ball if Frohnapfel can't go.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Boston Globe says UMass will huddle before deciding who starts at QB.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The Boston Herald talks about the UMass QB question.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass is tied for 7th in the Lambert Meadowlands Trophy rankings.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Cleveland.com says Akron looks to get back in the win column today against the Minutemen.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Hustle Belt's Week #13 pick 'em.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Keepers College football ratings has UMass by 5.28. In Vegas, the line has moved up to the Zips by 7, probably due to Frohnapfel's injury.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Lately there have been a lot of UMass sports on ESPN3. I bought a Chromecast and it works great with my setup. You need a wireless-enabled computer (my desktop Lenovo has a wireless card) and your TV needs an unoccupied HDMI port. The Chromecast can be powered from a usb port on the TV. If your set does not have one, Chromecast comes with a wall-wart power supply. It works out-of-the-box with Windows and Apple. I could not get to work with my version of Linux.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday--November 17th, 2014

UMass rises to a tie for #6 in the Hustle Belt Power Poll.

Hustle Belt has MAC Bowl predictions after week #13.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Ball State Daily says UMass brought the Cardinals rushing attack to a halt.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Akron opens as a 4.5 favorite in the Las Vegas odds.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sports Chat Place previews UMass-Akron.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Blake Frohnapfel's 424 passing yards against Ball State makes NBC Sports Statistically Speaking column.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Keepers College football rankings has the Minutemen as #113.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The Berkshire Eagle says how about playing the Western Mass Football Championship games at newly shined up McGuirk?

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Last year Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon gained 144 yards against the Minutemen. Saturday, he set the FBS record with 406 rushing yards against Nebraska.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

SB Nation reports Iowa Western Community College is what a JUCO powerhouse looks like.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

UNH blew out Delaware and will remain #1 in the FCS rankings.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunday--November 16th, 2014

Blake Frohnapfel watch

So far in 10 games Frohnapfel has gone 132.2 EFF 241-437-10 55.1% 3345 yards 23 TD 334.5 Ave/game

Single season records

Pass attempts:

1. 525 Todd Bankhead 1998 (15 games)
2. 437  Blake Frohnapfel 2014

Pass completions

1. 303 Todd Bankhead 1998 (15 games)
2. 259 Todd Bankhead 1999 (13 games)
3. 241  Blake Frohnapfel 2014

Passing yards

1. 3919 Todd Bankhead 1998 (15 games)
2. 3345  Blake Frohnapfel 2014

Passing TD's

5. 24 Liam Coen 2008
6. 23 Tim Day 2004
6. 23  Blake Frohnapfel 2014

Passing yards/game

1.  334.5 Blake Frohnapfel 2014
2   261.3 Todd Bankhead 1998 (15 games)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass has their game notes for Akron up.

The Zips have their UMass notes up.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass says the Black Friday game against Buffalo will be at 1:00 PM. I was hoping for an evening game. The students will be away and some people still have to work.

A Toledo Blade writer thinks the MAC's TV contract sucks.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone says Austin Whipple is ready to go if needed against Akron.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The UMass Daily Collegian reports Austin Whipple continues to work with the first team offense.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

In yesterday's MAC Conference action, Western Michigan blew out Eastern and Central Michigan edged Miami.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

The Tampa Bay Times predicts five MAC teams in bowls.

------------------------------------------------------------------

USA Today has winners and losers from yesterday's college football schedule.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday--November 15th, 2014

Blake Frohnapfel

Dan Malone has news on Blake Frohnapfel's injury. Apparently, Frohnapfel has a "bone bruise" and is making progress. As of now, Austin Whipple is taking the first team reps. The sounds positive as far as it goes. If Blake can't go for Akron with the short week, maybe he'll be available for Buffalo.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

I received the following E-mail. Not sure if it went out to all the season ticket holders or just the Gridiron Club.


That was a heck of a game Wednesday night, wasn't it? Your Minutemen — our Minutemen — played tough on both sides of the ball for 60 minutes and delivered a strong 24-10 win in front of a great home crowd and a national TV audience. That's what we've been building toward this season.

I hope we made you proud. I know you made us proud.

It was incredible, on a night when winter temperatures descended on Amherst, to look up into the stands and see all of you — students, alumni, community members … UMass fans, more than 13,000 strong — there to cheer on our team.

Thank you for being part of a great night for UMass football.

I've been saying this all season: We Win Together. Last night, that's just what we did. Won. Together.

I hope you'll come back to McGuirk Stadium November 28 when we wrap up our season against the Buffalo Bulls. Show our senior players how much their efforts have meant to you. And let's all head into the recruiting season on a high note.

If you're traveling for the holiday and you can't make it, tell your friends who are staying in the area or coming back to Western Mass for Thanksgiving about the team we have and the tradition we're building. Encourage them to get out to the game, and bring their families. Tell them what it means when we say, We Win Together.

Go UMass!

Mark Whipple

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Spencer Riddenhour, who played one season for UMass after transferring from Penn State, is in trouble again.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This article speaks about Akron's improvement under Terry Bowden. Note that Bowden has 14 FBS transfers and 8 JUCO's playing for the Zips. Akron's best game this year was a 21-10 win over Pitt. The Panthers own website said the Zips dominated.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The MAC website features Akron OL Travis Switzer. Switzer's Zips bio.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

I forgot to mention that former UMass assistant coach John Strollo in on the Ball State staff as offensive line coach.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the MAC Conference, Western Michigan is the team currently making the biggest turnaround.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday--November 14th, 2014

Ron Chimelis says the turnout Wednesday shows Western Massachusetts wants its team back.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone has three up and three down from the Ball State game.

Dan also reports the UMass-Akron game has been pushed to ESPN3 from ESPNU. That sucks. I watched Wednesday's game yesterday on DVD. ESPNU had excellent production values. They had a shot of the Old Chapel and the pond. They even did Antonio's in downtown Amherst.

Again, kudos to the UMass fans who turned out and the Minutemen players displayed lots of energy. It was good reflection of UMass spirit. I forgot to mention there were lots of trash barrels everywhere and some excellent UMass students recycled lots of trash.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty V. says Blake Frohnapfel's status is unknown for Akron. We should hear today. I don't agree that the final two games are meaningless. The conference clock is still ticking. Five and seven looks a hell of a lot better than 3-9. I'd give Austin Whipple the full package. Maybe Austin doesn't have the big arm Frohnapfel does, but I refuse to believe Tajae Sharpe can't get open against any MAC defense. Maybe fewer deep bombs that Coach Whipple loves, but other than that, let Austin play.

Andrew Verboys in the Spring Game

If Whipple goes down, then we are pretty much screwed. Punter Brian McDonald played QB in DIII. Walk-on QB Andrew Verboys would probably trade his redshirt for some playing time.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back in October, Akron offered an incentive for Zips students to attend a televised Akron game---a raffle for a free semester's tuition. Almost 4,000 students showed up.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A kind blog reader sent me this link about Northbridge's football coach Ken LaChapell breaking the state record for wins. LaChapelle is a UMass grad 1970.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

A doctor at Boston's Children's hospital has a better idea on treating ACL tears.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

AND IN AMHERST, PEOPLE WERE CLUCKING BECAUSE THE STUDENTS LEFT SOME TRASH

In Miami, someone stole the NFL Network's production truck.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday--November 13th, 2014

UPDATE:  Dan Malone says no update on Fronapfel's injury until tomorrow.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Click on an image and Blogger displays a larger view.

First off, congats to UMass fans and students! There were a legitimate  13,500 fans at the game and there was a lot of energy in the stadium. The weather was great and it was a fun game and atmosphere.

Second, kudos to the UMass defense. For the first time this season, the defense dominated. They were flying to the ball all night. Sha-ki Holines has a great first half. Trey Seals was all over the place in the second. Ball State was a running team and UMass shut that down. The defense really seemed energized.

On offense Tajae Sharpe has another monster game. He was open all night. I especially liked the performance of Lornezo Woodley. He looked like a three star running back last night. After a couple of good runs in the first half, he didn't get in the game until Shadrach Abrokwah went out. Woodley looked quick; he picked his holes, ran with his shoulders square and ran down hill. He had an impressive 90 yards.

Frohnapfel was having another productive game. He appeared to suffer an ankle or foot injury. Froh was in a lot of pain at the end and they put a boot around his foot and ankle.

On a personal note, I parked up by Whitmore. After the game I walked back through Southwest. By stock and by stone, it's been a long, long time since I was walking through Southwest close Midnight. I drove back to New Hampshire listening to a lot of ghosts in my head :)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hey! UMass is tied for second in the MAC East.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

UMass write-up on the game here. The UMass website has video highlights and post game interviews.

Ball State's coverage here.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone covers the game here and here.

He also reports on Frohnapfel's injury.

Tajae Sharpe says if Frohnapfel is out, UMass will have to come together.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty Vautour says the Cardinals couldn't stop Tajae Sharpe.

Matty's game report here.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Indy Star says Ball State lost 24-10.

The South Bend Tribune says the Minuteman air game thumped the Cardinals.

The News-Sentinel said the loss ended Ball State's bowl hopes.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

ABC40 said the UMass defense shined.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The Boston Globe said UMass looked prime time ready.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Max Moore of Hustle Belt recaps the game.

---------------------------------------------------------------

Game Day Ball State--November 12th, 2014

Well, there is a chance of showers early today, but clearing by afternoon. Cloudy late, but cloud cover will keep it warmer.

This is the start of the home stretch for the Minutemen. UMass' offense gives us a chance to win all three of the remaining games. As UMass fans, we've had to put up with a lot of snark the last three years. Closing 2014 with a win streak would be balm to my maroon & white soul. Hope to see everybody there and waive the the ESPN cameras!

Go UMass!!!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Where to catch the game if you can't make it to Amherst.

ESPN broadcast crew meets with Coach Whipple

Dan Malone reports on what to watch for in tonight's game.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty Vautour says UMass returns to action against Ball State tonight.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Jesse Allen of Hustle Belt previews tonight's MACtion between the Minutemen and the Cardinals.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

The Boston Herald says the Minutemen play in prime time.

------------------------------------------------------------------

The News-Sentinel says Ball State needs a win to stay bowl eligible.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

The UMass Daily Collegian say Jean Sifrin is rested and ready to go.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

In last night's MACtion, NIU won the MAC West and Buffalo upset Akron. If you missed the game last night, Toledo was down to playing its fourth string QB.

The MAC website previews tonight's league games.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

CBS Sports still has UMass in their Bottom 25.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

ESPN reports 117 teams have been eliminated and 17 remain in contention for the first college football playoff.

----------------------------------------------------------

Recruiting 2015--James Sosinski

David Jolkovski image

James Sosinski, a 6-7 240 pound QB from Hamilton HS, AZ has verbaled to UMass.

USA Today story about the commit here. (fixed link)

Hudl.com has video here.

MaxPreps has Sosinski's stats.

This article from September features Sosinski.

Sosinski drew interest from Arizona, but had no other offers. Whipple played his HS ball in Arizona and may have had some inside information about Sosinski.

Veterans Day---November 11th, 2014

UMass has its game notes for tomorrow's contest with Ball State up.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mark Whipple's quotes from yesterday's MAC coaches teleconference.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dan Malone reports that Jovan Santox-Knox will play and Kassan Messiah will not.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matty Vautour says UMass players are excited to be on TV.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Boston Globe says UMass starts its final stretch Wednesday night.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The Star Press previews the Minutemen-Cardinals game.

Get to know UMass from the Ball State perspective.

Ball State has eight former walk-ons under scholarship.

Jack Milas, the Cardinals QB, looks to put a sub-par performance behind him.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Las Vegas has UMass as a 3.5 favorite.

Keepers College football ratings has UMass by 6.72.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hustle Belt picks this week's MAC games.

Tonight's Toledo-NIU game should decide the MAC.

Akron and Buffalo put their combined losing streaks on the line tonight.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Otto Greule image

Michale Cox broke his leg in the Giants loss to Seattle. Get better soon Mike!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

North Dakota State lost Saturday, that moved New Hampshire up to #1 in FCS football rankings. (fixed link, I was really having a tough morning).

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday--November 10th, 2014

UMass Football Show tonight at 7:00 PM.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

From the UMass Athletic Dept.

UMass doesn't keep receiving records by position.  So far in 2014 Jean Sifrin has gone 34-549 549 16.1 AVE 5 TD's 68.1 yards/game.

Career receiving records

Pass receptions

4. 74 Kerry Taylor (15 games) 1998

Receptions per game

9. 4.93 Kerry Taylor (15 games) 1998

Single game records

Pass receiving yards

4. 190 Anthony Nelson 2010
5. 185 Jean Sifrin 2014
6. 182 Jeremy Horne 2008

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sports Chat Place previews the Minutemen-Cardinals game and picks UMass.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ball State has their UMass game notes up.

Ball State safety Martez Hester is trying to play with an injured back.

The Cardinals are thin at defensive back. They lost cornerback Eric Patterson for the season with a broken arm last week.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

The UMass Daily Collegian says student volunteers will aid in trash recycling during Wednesday's game.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hustle Belt looks at MAC bowl possibilities after week #10.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

State College.com does a feature on current Penn State defensive coordinator Bob Shoop. Mentions his time at UMass.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mike Muhholland image

MLive talks to James Ihedigbo on his 70-yard interception against the Dolphins.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------