James Brown, a 6-3 220 pound TE from Orlando Jones HS in FL has verbaled to Tennessee.
He had one other offer, which was from UMass as a QB.
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Monday, October 31, 2016
Monday before Troy--October 31st, 2016
Adam Breneman hightlights. Breneman has gone 52-622 6 TD's. He's #1 in total receptions for a TE, tied for #1 in TD's and second to yards by a TE.
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Ross Comis and Shane Huber both had successful ACL repairs. Huber was having an excellent season before he was injured. However, with two ACL tears, maybe he should consider life after football. He's got a lot of life to live after he graduates.
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UMass is a 21 point underdog to Troy according to Las Vagas odds.
Keepers College football ratings has Troy by 28+ (.pdf download). Keepers has UMass at #117 nationally (another .pdf download).
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The UMass Daily Collegian says the Minutemen put it all together in the game against Wagner.
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The State says South Carolina's defense turned it around after "letting up" on UMass. Yeah, right.
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The Salt Lake Triburne says the rested Cougars are ready for the last third of their season.
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The Montgomery Advertizer says Neal Brown is a bright young coach and has a bright future.
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Sunday, October 30, 2016
Day after Wagner--October 30th, 2016
UMass rang up 507 total yards of offense against the Seahawks yesterday. Be sure to watch Adam Breneman's highlight one handed catch. He went 8-138 and 2 TD's. A good day for the offense. Could have been better as Isabella dropped a sure TD catch and Sekai Lindsay had two drops.
Wonder of wonders, we went 2-for-2 on field goal attempts. Logan Laurant had a 49 yard punting average to go with the two field goals. We're up to a stratospheric 33% in field goal percentage.!
The defense controlled a pretty good Wagner passing game. UMass had an unsportsmanlike penalty that kept the only Seahawk scoring drive alive.
We'll take the win and hope we get some of the walking wounded back for the last three games of the season.
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UMass writeup here.
Wagner writeup here.
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Dan Malone reports UMass ended a senior day losing streak.
Dan said the UMass passing game had some big numbers.
Matty Vautour reports UMass rolled over Wagner on Senior Day.
Matty also says the injuries to Marquis Young and John Robinson-Woodgett were not serious.
The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass scored early and often.
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The Florida Gators are 6-1 after a 24-10 win over Georgia.
Boston College beat North Carolina State for their first ACC win in 700 days.
Florida International lost to Middle Tennessee.
Tulane blew a 10 point lead and lost to SMU.
Old Dominion beat UTEP and needs one win to be bowl eligible.
Louisiana Tech rang up 735 yards of offense in a 61-16 beatdown of Rice.
South Carolina held Tennessee to 21 points in a big upset over the Volunteers.
Troy had a bye.
BYU had a bye.
Hawaii lost to New Mexico.
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Saturday, October 29, 2016
Game Day Wagner--October 29th, 2016
Well hopefully UMass will add its second win to the 2016 season. Wagner is not North Dakota State or James Madison, but they're not Delaware State or Prairie View A & M either. They scored 10 points on BC, but had only 107 yards of total offense. BC's less-than-awesome offense totaled 490 yards on the Seahawks.
UMass needs to move the ball, stop the mistakes and get ahead early. the Minutemen could then rest the starters and let the freshmen and backups get some playing time. Please don't make this into a 24-17 grinder. Wagner is only the second FCS team UMass has played since moving into FBS. We lost to Maine in 2013. The Black Bears went 10-2 in the regular season that year and lost at Big 10 Northwestern by 13 points. Since then Maine went 5-6 in 2014, 3-8 in 2015 and they are 4-3 so far in 2016 and unlikely to make the playoffs. Shows the way things have gone for the Minutemen so far in FBS.
I'll be there to say goodbye to the Seniors. Hope to see a good crowd of regulars. Go UMass!!!
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The game will be available on ESPN3 and NESN+. Dish network will have the game on channel 442 ALT here in New Hampshire. UMass fans in other parts of the country should check here (.pdf download) for availability in other areas.
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Matty Vautour says UMass wants to end a number of droughts. He also reports that Joe Previte is out with a dislocated elbow and his future status is undetermined. That's too bad. Previte had been a pleasant surprise on the defensive line.
Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" predicts UMass 38 Wagner 13.
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SLive says the Seahawks brace for UMass.
The Boston Herald says UMass aims to send the seniors off with a win in Amherst.
Campus Insiders predicts UMass 35-Wagner 20.
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UMass needs to move the ball, stop the mistakes and get ahead early. the Minutemen could then rest the starters and let the freshmen and backups get some playing time. Please don't make this into a 24-17 grinder. Wagner is only the second FCS team UMass has played since moving into FBS. We lost to Maine in 2013. The Black Bears went 10-2 in the regular season that year and lost at Big 10 Northwestern by 13 points. Since then Maine went 5-6 in 2014, 3-8 in 2015 and they are 4-3 so far in 2016 and unlikely to make the playoffs. Shows the way things have gone for the Minutemen so far in FBS.
I'll be there to say goodbye to the Seniors. Hope to see a good crowd of regulars. Go UMass!!!
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The game will be available on ESPN3 and NESN+. Dish network will have the game on channel 442 ALT here in New Hampshire. UMass fans in other parts of the country should check here (.pdf download) for availability in other areas.
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Matty Vautour says UMass wants to end a number of droughts. He also reports that Joe Previte is out with a dislocated elbow and his future status is undetermined. That's too bad. Previte had been a pleasant surprise on the defensive line.
Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" predicts UMass 38 Wagner 13.
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SLive says the Seahawks brace for UMass.
The Boston Herald says UMass aims to send the seniors off with a win in Amherst.
Campus Insiders predicts UMass 35-Wagner 20.
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Friday, October 28, 2016
Recruiting 2017--Dominique Maiden
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| Maiden #80/Susanne Hara image |
247sports page here.
Hudl.com has video from this season.
Besides UMass, Maiden has a recent offer from West Virginia and an offer from Alabama-Birmingham.
Partial quote from a Scout.com article on Maiden dated 10/18/16 by Jeff Cobb:
"As far as eligibility, Maiden says he will enroll in his school of choice in December and will have three years to complete his final two seasons of eligibility. Right now, he also has offers from UMass and the University of Alabama-Birmingham.
"I don't plan on committing until after the season on signing day. I'm still waiting for the PAC-12 offers to come in," Maiden said."
Friday before Wagner--October 28th, 2016
The UMass senior class.
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Dan Malone reports UMass needs a win against FCS Wagner.
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Wagner finally has their game notes up. Note the game will be available on ESPN3 as well as NESN+.
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Rotoworld notes Adam Breneman 9-94 2 TD's against South Carolina.
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The end of this article talks about UMass and the MAC as lessons for a UConn move to the Big East.
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Thursday, October 27, 2016
Recruiting 2017--Davyn Flenord
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| Jason Caldwell image |
247 Sports page here.
Hudl.com has video.
Scout.com says Flenord is the definition of a sleeper in this year's class.
Maxpreps has some stats.
Besides UMass, Flenord has offers from South Alabama, Toledo and Troy.
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Thursday before Wagner--October 27th, 2016
Double header in Amherst on Saturday. UMass football meets Wagner at Noon and UMass Hockey plays against hated Boston College at 7:00 PM. See both!
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Adam Aucoin of the UMass Daily Collegian says UMass is looking to get back on track against Wagner.
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Sports Chat Place predicts a blowout win for the Minutemen Saturday.
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Fox Sports reports Coach Whipple is in the bottom 20 college coaches in salary.
The top 20 college coaching salaries are between $4 million and $9 million.
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Adam Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian reports on Adam Breneman's outstanding season with UMass.
Breneman has gone 44-484 4 TD's; that places him tied for first place in the NCAA in number of catches by a TE and third in total yards.
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Under the having a really bad season category are the UMass field goal kickers. The NCAA does not have national ranking stats for field goals, but in total scoring, UMass is the only team in football with only one field goal for 2016.
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The second half of the season is crucial for Victor Cruz's future with the Giants.
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Adam Aucoin of the UMass Daily Collegian says UMass is looking to get back on track against Wagner.
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Sports Chat Place predicts a blowout win for the Minutemen Saturday.
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Fox Sports reports Coach Whipple is in the bottom 20 college coaches in salary.
The top 20 college coaching salaries are between $4 million and $9 million.
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 |
| Jeffrey Roberts image |
Breneman has gone 44-484 4 TD's; that places him tied for first place in the NCAA in number of catches by a TE and third in total yards.
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Under the having a really bad season category are the UMass field goal kickers. The NCAA does not have national ranking stats for field goals, but in total scoring, UMass is the only team in football with only one field goal for 2016.
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The second half of the season is crucial for Victor Cruz's future with the Giants.
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Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Wednesday before Wagner--October 26th, 2016
Highlights from the South Carolina game.
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The Garnet & Black Attack has final (somewhat incoherent) thoughts about the South Carolina-UMass game.
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Matty Vautour has a story about UMass TE Adam Breneman keeping tabs on presidential election.
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Andrew Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian reports UMass is not overlooking FCS Wagner.
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After starting against UMass last week, the Gamecocks will stay with QB Jake Bentley.
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Victor Cruz has modest numbers since his return, but that's OK.
North Jersey.com says Cruz is proving the doubters wrong.
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Tuesday, October 25, 2016
Recruiting 2017--Kam Stephens
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| Hustle Belt image |
247 Sports page here.
NCSA has some stats .
Hudl.com has highlights.
Junior highlights here.
This article from August features Stephens.
This article features Stephens during a recruiting visit to Kent State.
Besides UMass, Stephens has offers from MAC schools Kent State, Ohio, Toledo and Akron.
Tuesday before Wagner--October 25th, 2016
UMass has its game notes for Wagner up.
Wagner lost to Bryant last week in a game that knocked the Seahawks out of sole possession of first place in the Northeast comference.
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Michael Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" recaps the Minutemen's game at South Carolina.
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The Troy Trojans are bowl eligible.
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Tajae Sharpe has a knee sprain.
Titansized says Tennessee needs to target Tajae Sharpe more.
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UMass has two tough games remaining in it's 2016 schedule (Sun Belt leading Troy University and BYU) and one we should win (Wagner) and one competitive (Hawaii).
Boston College finishes its ACC schedule with NC State, Louisville, Florida State and 4-2 Wake Forest. Ouch!
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Monday, October 24, 2016
Monday before Wagner--October 24th, 2016
UMass has the post-game notes and quotes from the South Carolina game up.
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Matty Vautour reports mistakes at South Carolina will haunt the Minutemen. He's right. UMass could have won that game. The Minutemen played perhaps their best game of the season Saturday. They moved the ball all game against the Gamecocks defense. Clearly UMass had it's best balance on offense this season. They ran the ball effectively and that always helps. I think the UMass offensive line is coming together.
The defense too held their own on the line of scrimmage. Except for the first series, the defense defended the run game all afternoon. And remember the Gamecocks had great field position all day.
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The State's Dave Cloninger says the UMass defense "couldn't stop warm butter sliding down a knife". It's always nice to be a gracious winner.
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No Vegas line on UMass' game with Wagner. Keepers College Football rankings has UMass by 8 points+ (.pdf download). At 1-7 Keeper has UMass at #125 (another .pdf download).
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A British sports writer interviews Victor Cruz.
Tajae Sharpe caught four balls for 59 yards in Tennessee's loss to Colts.
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As you remember, I'm an amateur astronomer. I've blogged about UMass Large Millimeter Telescope before.
Space.com reports on UMass getting a grant to install a new state-of-the-art imaging system for the LMT.
More info on the TolTEC camera. Congrats to the UMass astronomy team. They're doing exciting work.
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Matty Vautour reports mistakes at South Carolina will haunt the Minutemen. He's right. UMass could have won that game. The Minutemen played perhaps their best game of the season Saturday. They moved the ball all game against the Gamecocks defense. Clearly UMass had it's best balance on offense this season. They ran the ball effectively and that always helps. I think the UMass offensive line is coming together.
The defense too held their own on the line of scrimmage. Except for the first series, the defense defended the run game all afternoon. And remember the Gamecocks had great field position all day.
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The State's Dave Cloninger says the UMass defense "couldn't stop warm butter sliding down a knife". It's always nice to be a gracious winner.
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No Vegas line on UMass' game with Wagner. Keepers College Football rankings has UMass by 8 points+ (.pdf download). At 1-7 Keeper has UMass at #125 (another .pdf download).
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A British sports writer interviews Victor Cruz.
Tajae Sharpe caught four balls for 59 yards in Tennessee's loss to Colts.
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| James Lowenthal image |
Space.com reports on UMass getting a grant to install a new state-of-the-art imaging system for the LMT.
More info on the TolTEC camera. Congrats to the UMass astronomy team. They're doing exciting work.
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Sunday, October 23, 2016
Day after South Carolina--October 23rd, 2016
Well we could have won that game. The 13 points off turnovers were the difference. Minus the turnovers the Minutemen played another strong game against an SEC team. The depleted UMass defense held the Gamecocks to 7 points in the second half and allowed no points in the fourth quarter. Also note five of South Carolina's drives started in UMass territory.
The UMass offense moved the ball all day with 23 first downs. The Minutemen went 3-4 on fourth downs and had 389 total yards of offense. South Carolina is a very bad offensive team, but their defense is another story.
We had another crappy day kicking the ball. We shanked a punt. Kicked the ball out of bounds on a kickoff and missed another reasonable field goal.
Anyway, it was another good effort and something to build off of.
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The UMass website says the Minutemen comeback fell short.
The South Carolina website says the Gamecocks claimed a victory. Quotes from Coach Whipple and the UMass players here.
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Dan Malone reports early miscues derailed a good UMass effort.
Matty Vautour reports the UMass comeback fell short.
Matty says UMass RB Marquis Young broke through in the loss to South Carolina.
The State says South Carolina held off UMass.
The Garnet & Black attack says the Gamecocks held off UMass.
Dave Cloninger says UMass abused the Gamecock defense all day.
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Florida had a bye.
Boston College lost to Syracuse to run their ACC losing streak to a dozen.
FIU was blown out by Louisiana Tech.
Mississippi State lost to Kentucky on a last minute kick.
Tulane was dominated by Tulasa.
Old Dominion was crushed by Western Kentucky.
Hawaii beat Air Force in double overtime.
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The UMass offense moved the ball all day with 23 first downs. The Minutemen went 3-4 on fourth downs and had 389 total yards of offense. South Carolina is a very bad offensive team, but their defense is another story.
We had another crappy day kicking the ball. We shanked a punt. Kicked the ball out of bounds on a kickoff and missed another reasonable field goal.
Anyway, it was another good effort and something to build off of.
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The UMass website says the Minutemen comeback fell short.
The South Carolina website says the Gamecocks claimed a victory. Quotes from Coach Whipple and the UMass players here.
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Dan Malone reports early miscues derailed a good UMass effort.
Matty Vautour reports the UMass comeback fell short.
Matty says UMass RB Marquis Young broke through in the loss to South Carolina.
The State says South Carolina held off UMass.
The Garnet & Black attack says the Gamecocks held off UMass.
Dave Cloninger says UMass abused the Gamecock defense all day.
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Florida had a bye.
Boston College lost to Syracuse to run their ACC losing streak to a dozen.
FIU was blown out by Louisiana Tech.
Mississippi State lost to Kentucky on a last minute kick.
Tulane was dominated by Tulasa.
Old Dominion was crushed by Western Kentucky.
Hawaii beat Air Force in double overtime.
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Saturday, October 22, 2016
Game Day South Carolina--October 22nd, 2016
UPDATE: The SEC network is on channel 408 on Dish Network here in New Hampshire. They're currently interviewing John Calipari...
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Another Saturday, another SEC team. UMass has started to show some damage from their tough schedule. We'll see how many of the walking wounded play today. The Gamecocks are definitely not an offensive powerhouse. Hopefully, the UMass defense can keep it close with no third quarter collapse.
We've come close with Vanderbilt, Colorado and Temple. An upset against South Carolina would be balm to the battered egos of Minutemen fans.
Whatever the outcome, I'll be cheering for the Maroon & White. Go UMass!!!
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Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews the South Carolina game.
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Matty Vautour says the Gamecocks are the Minutemen's latest chance for a big win.
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The State wonders if UMass can play another SEC team close.
The Big Spur has five keys to victory over the Minutemen.
Fox Sports says South Carolina and Massachusetts have the same problem: no offense.
The Garnet & Black Attack has five questions with Mike Traini.
The Independent says all eyes will be on Jake Bentley.
Dave Cloninger says Jake Bentley should stay on the bench.
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CBS Sports says take the Minutemen an the points.
FBS Schedules says the Gamecocks will cover the points.
SEC Country says watch Da'Sean Downey against the Gamecock's offensive line.
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Another Saturday, another SEC team. UMass has started to show some damage from their tough schedule. We'll see how many of the walking wounded play today. The Gamecocks are definitely not an offensive powerhouse. Hopefully, the UMass defense can keep it close with no third quarter collapse.
We've come close with Vanderbilt, Colorado and Temple. An upset against South Carolina would be balm to the battered egos of Minutemen fans.
Whatever the outcome, I'll be cheering for the Maroon & White. Go UMass!!!
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Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews the South Carolina game.
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Matty Vautour says the Gamecocks are the Minutemen's latest chance for a big win.
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The State wonders if UMass can play another SEC team close.
The Big Spur has five keys to victory over the Minutemen.
Fox Sports says South Carolina and Massachusetts have the same problem: no offense.
The Garnet & Black Attack has five questions with Mike Traini.
The Independent says all eyes will be on Jake Bentley.
Dave Cloninger says Jake Bentley should stay on the bench.
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CBS Sports says take the Minutemen an the points.
FBS Schedules says the Gamecocks will cover the points.
SEC Country says watch Da'Sean Downey against the Gamecock's offensive line.
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Friday, October 21, 2016
Friday before South Carolina--October 21st, 2016
From the UMass Athletic Dept:
UMASS vs. SOUTH CAROLINA
PREGAME RECEPTION INFORMATION
Saturday, October 22, 2016
We are excited that you will be joining us for the South Carolina game this weekend. For your convenience, see map indicating our tailgate location (Seawell's Banquet Facility) marked by a yellow star located just northwest of Williams-Brice Stadium. Look for the University of Massachusetts Welcome sign at the entrance of Seawell's. Reception will be held from 9:30-11:30am. A cash bar will be available during the tailgate for your enjoyment. Tickets remain available for purchase upon entrance at $25 per individual.
Representatives from UMass Athletics and the UMass Amherst Alumni Association will be happy to assist you on game day with any questions you may have.
Seawell's Banquet Facility
1125 Rosewood Drive
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
(803) 771-7385
UMASS vs. SOUTH CAROLINA
PREGAME RECEPTION INFORMATION
Saturday, October 22, 2016
We are excited that you will be joining us for the South Carolina game this weekend. For your convenience, see map indicating our tailgate location (Seawell's Banquet Facility) marked by a yellow star located just northwest of Williams-Brice Stadium. Look for the University of Massachusetts Welcome sign at the entrance of Seawell's. Reception will be held from 9:30-11:30am. A cash bar will be available during the tailgate for your enjoyment. Tickets remain available for purchase upon entrance at $25 per individual.
Representatives from UMass Athletics and the UMass Amherst Alumni Association will be happy to assist you on game day with any questions you may have.
Seawell's Banquet Facility
1125 Rosewood Drive
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
(803) 771-7385
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Dan Malone reports UMass hopes the third time is the charm against the SEC.
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Matty Vautour reports Marquis Young and Tedrick Lowery are still "questionable" for Saturday's game. Whipple said Bilal Ally and Sekai Lindsay will get reps from the TB slot. John Robinson-Woodgett and JUCO Malik Lee could get some carries out of the fullback position.
Tedrick Lowery played well against SEC opposition early in the season. With Shane Huber out for the season with an ACL Lowery is a big component in UMass' run-stopping.
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The State has a guide to game day activities, if you're lucky enough to be attending.
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Who's starting for the Gamecocks at QB is still top secret.
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The Big Lead says UMass will keep it under the spread.
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SEC Country reports the Gamecocks are looking for offensive consistency.
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Troy beat South Alabama to become bowl eligible last night. Troy is 6-1 for the season and undefeated in the Sun belt. Looks like Neal Brown has it going down in Alabama.
BYU lost to Boise State by one point despite having a 5-0 edge in turnovers.
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Troy beat South Alabama to become bowl eligible last night. Troy is 6-1 for the season and undefeated in the Sun belt. Looks like Neal Brown has it going down in Alabama.
BYU lost to Boise State by one point despite having a 5-0 edge in turnovers.
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Two UConn players arrested on drug and weapons charges.
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Thursday, October 20, 2016
Recruiting 2017--Jalen Shelton
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| Hudl.com image |
247 Sports page here.
Hudl.com has video.
From the same HS as Sekai Lindsay.
Besides UMass, Shelton has offers from Buffalo and Middle Tennessee.
Thursday before South Carolina--October 20th, 2016
UMass hires David Biancamano as development head. Spearheaded renovations to two JMU stadiums.
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Penn Live reports former Penn State TE Adam Breneman is back on the field at UMass and feeling healthy.
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Adam Aucoin of the UMass Daily Collegian reports the Minutemen are preparing for their third SEC team of the season.
Andrew Cyr says the Minutemen are getting ready for another hostile environment.
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Larenz Bryant SR 6-0 225 will start at strong side linebacker for the Gamecocks against UMass Saturday.
Brandon McIlwain's mom is upset her son is not starting Saturday. Key quote from her: "Obviously, any quarterback will shine against UMass who has given up over 400 yards a week passing. It's a total set-up to justify making the switch to the coach's son.” Full text of her quote here.
Third down has been the Gamecocks bugbear.
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The Big 12's decision not to expand shows problems. Meanwhile, the Big 12's brass release some do's and don'ts.
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Wednesday, October 19, 2016
Recruiting 2017--Devin Darrington
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| Twitter.com image |
247Sports three-star player.
Rivals three-star player.
Hudl.com has video.
Partial quote from a 9/30/16 article by Brian Dohn on Scout.com.
"The 5-foot-9, 198-pound Darrington was at Indiana last weekend, will be at Penn State (no offer) on Saturday, and Rutgers continues to push for a visit. In addition, Ohio, Temple, Army, Navy, Massachusetts, Louisville (no offer), Virginia Tech (no offer) and a handful of Ivy League schools remain in contact with him.
"With the Ivy League, if it turns out that I like it and my visit was cool and I really like the school, I would see nothing wrong with committing," the 5-foot-9, 198-pound Darrington said. "I don't really have a preference of playing in the Ivy League or not. I just look forward to playing good football."
Darrington has 22 offers including Pitt, Syracuse and Rutgers from the Northeast.
Wednesday before South Carolina--October 19th, 2016
 |
| MassLive image |
Sekai Lindsay has gone 16-70 4.4 AVE 1 TD LONG 22.
Bilal Allay has totals of 10-42 4.2 AVE LONG 16.
Neither player has lost a yard rushing.
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Campus Insiders previews the Minutemen-Gamecocks contest.
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South Carolina still has a bowl bid in sight.
Jake Bentley, a four-star recruit out of Opielika, Alabama is likely to start for South Carolina against the Minutemen. And I bet that they have some awesome Friday night football in Opielika.
The Gamecocks are last in the nation in scoring and 126th in total offense, the Gamecocks hope Bentley can light a fires under the offense. UMass is #123 in total offense (318.7 yards/game) and South Carolina is #126 (304.5 yards/game).
In scoring, UMass is #118 (138 points scored) and South Carolina is #128 (84 points scored).
South Carolina may shuffle its offensive line against the Minutemen.
Gamecock offensive coordinator Kurt Roper says South Carolina needs to play better.
South Carolina has struggled returning punts.
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Victor Cruz is excited to be playing in London this weekend.
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And now, robot sports writers.
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Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Recruiting 2017--Robert Drew Kirkpatrick.
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| Huld.com image |
247 Sports page here.
Hudl.com has some highlight video from Blinn.
Besides UMass, Kirkpatrick has an offer from Louisiana Monroe.
Tuesday before South Carolina--October 18th, 2016
UMass has their game notes for South Carolina up.
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Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" recaps the Louisiana Tech game.
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Patriot punter Ryan Allen watched his alma mater Louisiana Tech play UMass Staurday.
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The State says South Carolina catches a break with UMass coming to town.
The State scouts UMass.
Sports Chat place says take UMass and the points.
The Post and Courier reports FR QB Jake Bentley may start for the Gamecocks.
Freshman RB Rico Dowdle may carry the ball for South Carolina.
Senior LB Larenz Bryant may see his first action of the season against the Minutemen.
South Carolina wants to focus on running the ball.
SEC Country reports the Gamecocks believe their offense is close to clicking.
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Victor Cruz honors his fire fighter father at the Greenwich Boys & Girls Club.
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Meanwhile with the Tennessee Titans, Tajae Sharpe is in a slump.
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Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" recaps the Louisiana Tech game.
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Patriot punter Ryan Allen watched his alma mater Louisiana Tech play UMass Staurday.
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The State says South Carolina catches a break with UMass coming to town.
The State scouts UMass.
Sports Chat place says take UMass and the points.
The Post and Courier reports FR QB Jake Bentley may start for the Gamecocks.
Freshman RB Rico Dowdle may carry the ball for South Carolina.
Senior LB Larenz Bryant may see his first action of the season against the Minutemen.
South Carolina wants to focus on running the ball.
SEC Country reports the Gamecocks believe their offense is close to clicking.
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Victor Cruz honors his fire fighter father at the Greenwich Boys & Girls Club.
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Meanwhile with the Tennessee Titans, Tajae Sharpe is in a slump.
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Monday, October 17, 2016
Monday before South Carolina--October 17th, 2016
 |
| Hampshire Gazette image |
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Dan Malone has notes from the Louisiana Tech game. He talks about the field goal problems and also says, despite the number of injuries, none were apparently serious.
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Matty Vautour has notes from the game including the nearly textbook case of offensive interference that allowed a Louisiana Tech touchdown.
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The Shreveport Times talks about Carlos Henderson's 235 yards and 5 TD day against the Minutemen.
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Las Vegas has South Carolina by 22.5 over the Minutemen.
Keepers Collge football ratings has the Gamecocks by 21.65 (.pdf download)
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South Carolina won't decide on their starting QB until game time.
Three key Gamecocks players may miss the UMass game.
Garnet and Black Attack looks at the remaining games on South Carolina's schedule.
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Tajae Sharpe gains NFL lessons at 35,000 feet.
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Sunday, October 16, 2016
The Day after Louisiana Tech--October 16th, 2016
Well the last game at Gillette ended just like the first---a blowout. Not that we couldn't have made it closer. UMass missed two field goals and Ford fumbled for an easy Bulldog score. That's a thirteen point swing right there.
The defense got three turnovers, but we didn't score off them. By the end of the game UMass was losing defensive players at an alarming rate. Not much else to say except the Bulldogs are one of the top Group-of-Five teams and we're not. We showed some flashes, but not enough.
BTW, five years into FBS and we still can't kick a field goal. That's making me crazy. Hold a tryout from the soccer team or something. Damn...
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UMass write-up on the game. Post game quotes (.pdf)
Louisiana Tech's write-up.
Dan Malone says the Bulldog offense was too much for UMass.
NCAA.com reports Carlos Henderson had a monster night of 326 yards and 5 TD's.
Matty Vautour says UMass couldn't keep up.
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BYU, Mississippi State and Tulane all played Friday night.
Florida blew out Missouri 40-14 and move into the top of the SEC East.
Boston College had a bye.
Old Dominion had a bye.
South Carolina had a bye.
Troy beat Georgia State 31-21.
UNLV edged Hawaii 41-38.
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The defense got three turnovers, but we didn't score off them. By the end of the game UMass was losing defensive players at an alarming rate. Not much else to say except the Bulldogs are one of the top Group-of-Five teams and we're not. We showed some flashes, but not enough.
BTW, five years into FBS and we still can't kick a field goal. That's making me crazy. Hold a tryout from the soccer team or something. Damn...
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UMass write-up on the game. Post game quotes (.pdf)
Louisiana Tech's write-up.
Dan Malone says the Bulldog offense was too much for UMass.
NCAA.com reports Carlos Henderson had a monster night of 326 yards and 5 TD's.
Matty Vautour says UMass couldn't keep up.
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BYU, Mississippi State and Tulane all played Friday night.
Florida blew out Missouri 40-14 and move into the top of the SEC East.
Boston College had a bye.
Old Dominion had a bye.
South Carolina had a bye.
Troy beat Georgia State 31-21.
UNLV edged Hawaii 41-38.
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The Day after Louisiana Tech--October 16th, 2016
Well the last game at Gillette ended just like the first---a blowout. Not that we couldn't have made it closer. UMass missed two field goals and Ford fumbled for an easy Bulldog score. That's a thirteen point swing right there.
The defense got three turnovers, but we didn't score off them. By the end of the game UMass was losing defensive players at an alarming rate. Not much else to say except the Bulldogs are one of the top Group-of-Five teams and we're not. We showed some flashes, but not enough.
BTW, five years into FBS and we still can't kick a field goal. That's making me crazy. Hold a tryout from the soccer team or something. Damn...
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UMass write-up on the game. Post game quotes (.pdf)
Louisiana Tech's write-up.
Dan Malone says the Bulldog offense was too much for UMass.
NCAA.com reports Carlos Henderson had a monster night of 326 yards and 5 TD's.
Matty Vautour says UMass couldn't keep up.
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BYU, Mississippi State and Tulane all played Friday night.
Florida blew out Missouri 40-14 and move into the top of the SEC East.
Boston College had a bye.
Old Dominion had a bye.
South Carolina had a bye.
Troy beat Georgia State 31-21.
UNLV edged Hawaii 41-38.
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The defense got three turnovers, but we didn't score off them. By the end of the game UMass was losing defensive players at an alarming rate. Not much else to say except the Bulldogs are one of the top Group-of-Five teams and we're not. We showed some flashes, but not enough.
BTW, five years into FBS and we still can't kick a field goal. That's making me crazy. Hold a tryout from the soccer team or something. Damn...
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UMass write-up on the game. Post game quotes (.pdf)
Louisiana Tech's write-up.
Dan Malone says the Bulldog offense was too much for UMass.
NCAA.com reports Carlos Henderson had a monster night of 326 yards and 5 TD's.
Matty Vautour says UMass couldn't keep up.
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BYU, Mississippi State and Tulane all played Friday night.
Florida blew out Missouri 40-14 and move into the top of the SEC East.
Boston College had a bye.
Old Dominion had a bye.
South Carolina had a bye.
Troy beat Georgia State 31-21.
UNLV edged Hawaii 41-38.
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Saturday, October 15, 2016
Game Day Louisiana Tech-- October 15th, 2016
Well, the Foxborough forecast is sunny and highs near 60. Should be a perfect day for Band Day and the Minutemen.
Louisiana Tech is one of the top teams in the Group-of-Five leagues. The Bulldogs are fifth in the nation in passing offense at 365 yards/game. Louisiana Tech is 13th in total offense. They're 48th in rushing defense and that's where UMass could make the game competitive today. Run the ball and the clock and keep the Bulldogs high octane offense on the sidelines.
Last week the turning point came with the Minutemen trailing 16-23. The UMass defense got a stop and the Minutemen had good field position. Ford was sacked for an eight yard loss and UMass went three-and-out. Old Dominion scored on the next possession. UMass went three-and-out again and the game was effectively over. Hopefully, the UMass defense will be back to full strength minus Shane Huber.
I'll be there and cheering for UMass. Hope to see everyone at the last game at Gillette until 2018.
Go UMass!!!
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Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews the Louisiana Tech game.
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Matty Vautour reports UMass is host high-flying Louisiana Tech.
Bulldog HC Skip Holtz plays up UMass.
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The News Star reports the Bulldogs plan to bring their own juice to an empty Gillette stadium.
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Underdog Dynasty says Louisiana Tech will light up the scoreboard.
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State College says Adam Breneman's comeback couldn't happen to a nicer guy.
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Athlon Sports says take the over when the Bulldogs and Minutemen meet.
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In Friday night games:
Tulane lost to Memphis.
BYU beat Mississippi State in a double overtime thriller.
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Friday, October 14, 2016
Friday before Louisiana Tech--October 14th, 2016
Saturday will the 2016 Band Day. Hope everyone will come out to see the event. The weather is lookin' good. Sunny with the high around 60.
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Dan Malone reports Louisiana Tech is coming to town with its high octane offense.
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Andrew Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian talks about Andy Isabella's emergence as the Minutemen's leading receiver.
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Campus Insiders has Louisiana Tech over the Minutemen 41-20.
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BPT online previews the UMass-Louisiana Tech game.
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South Carolina is concentrating on football after losing three straight SEC games.
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For the first time since his first game as a pro, Victor Cruz was shut out against Green Bay last week.
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Tajae Sharpe's grandmother will be the honorary "twelfth Titan" during this week's game. Heart warming story.
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Dan Malone reports Louisiana Tech is coming to town with its high octane offense.
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| Doug Steinbock image |
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Campus Insiders has Louisiana Tech over the Minutemen 41-20.
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BPT online previews the UMass-Louisiana Tech game.
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South Carolina is concentrating on football after losing three straight SEC games.
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For the first time since his first game as a pro, Victor Cruz was shut out against Green Bay last week.
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Tajae Sharpe's grandmother will be the honorary "twelfth Titan" during this week's game. Heart warming story.
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Thursday, October 13, 2016
Thursday before Louisiana Tech--October 13th, 2016
Adam Breneman has been added to the John Mackey Award watch list. Breneman has gone 28-296 2 TD's.
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Matty Vautour report UMass Junior LB Colburt Calhoun (5-11 219) is ready to take over Shane Huber's spot as middle linebacker for the Minutemen.
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Adam Aucoin of the UMass Dailey Collegian says UMass gets ready for the offense-heavy Louisiana Tech Bulldogs.
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Louisianan Tech QB Ryan Higgins has been added to the Manning Award watch list.
Through the first six games, Higgins is averaging 373.8 passing yards, a mark that ranks third in the nation – more than any quarterback in the ACC, SEC or the Big Ten. In his last 17 quarters, Higgins is 118-of-181 passing (65.1 pct.) with 1,615 yards, 15 touchdowns and no interceptions.
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| Soobum Im image |
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Meanwhile, South Carolina in an off week, is trying to get its offense together to face UMass.
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Wednesday, October 12, 2016
Wednesday before Louisiana Tech--October 12th, 2016
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| Image credit unknown |
Whiple said Colburt Calhoun and Vondell Langston will see an increased work load. Whipple also mentioned Lucas Amato and Leon Flanagan may get some reps. Amato played in 20 games in 2015 and 2014. Flanagan is a true freshman.
Matty also reports Tedrick Lowery may return for the Louisiana Tech game. As I have mentioned before, I think Lowery was having an outstanding year before he was injured.
Matty has Whipple as non-committal on Ross Comis' status. At least he's not saying Comis is done for the year.
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Andrew Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian has more on Huber's injury.
Mike Traini has a post on Huber.
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Louisiana Tech picks up a local QB recruit.
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The Virginia Pilot says ODU is defying preseason predictions.
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Former UMass foe Mississippi State and future 2016 opponent BYU play each other this weekend.
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Vladimir Ducasse has been signed by the Baltimore Ravens.
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The Tennessee Titans hope Tajae Sharpe has a breakout game against the Dolphins.
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Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Tuesday before Louisiana Tech--October 11th, 2016
UMass has it's game notes for Louisiana Tech up.
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Louisiana Tech's kicker Jonathan Barnes and WR Carlos Henderson were named C-USA special teams and offensive players-of-the-week respectively. Henderson had a fairly mind-boggling 232 receiving yards and 3 TD day against WKU.
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UMass falls to #119 in Keepers College football ratings (.pdf download).
His weekly predictions has the Bulldogs by almost 19 over the Minutemen (another .pdf download).
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South Carolina has announce a Noon kickoff time for the UMass game. They also have a bye week prior to the Minuteman game.
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Sports Chat Place says Louisiana Tech will cover the 15-point spread against UMass.
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Victor Cruz likes flying under the radar.
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Louisiana Tech's kicker Jonathan Barnes and WR Carlos Henderson were named C-USA special teams and offensive players-of-the-week respectively. Henderson had a fairly mind-boggling 232 receiving yards and 3 TD day against WKU.
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UMass falls to #119 in Keepers College football ratings (.pdf download).
His weekly predictions has the Bulldogs by almost 19 over the Minutemen (another .pdf download).
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South Carolina has announce a Noon kickoff time for the UMass game. They also have a bye week prior to the Minuteman game.
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Sports Chat Place says Louisiana Tech will cover the 15-point spread against UMass.
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Victor Cruz likes flying under the radar.
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Monday, October 10, 2016
Monday before Louisiana Tech--October 10th, 2016
Sorry for the late post today. My internet connection was down.
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Bulldog QB Ryan Higgins has been having a great year so far. He's gone 142-216 1869 YARDS 65.7% AVE 17 TD's 378.8 yards/game.
Las Vegas has Louisiana Tech opening by 17 point favorite, now down to 15.
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Louisiana Tech signs a contract to play Grambling in 2019. Grambling has to bring their band.
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BC Interruption notes that Northeast football really sucks this year.
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Talk about the Big 12 expanding is dying down.
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Tajae Sharpe had a quiet game against the Dolphins.
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| Louisiana Tech image |
Las Vegas has Louisiana Tech opening by 17 point favorite, now down to 15.
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Louisiana Tech signs a contract to play Grambling in 2019. Grambling has to bring their band.
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BC Interruption notes that Northeast football really sucks this year.
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Talk about the Big 12 expanding is dying down.
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Tajae Sharpe had a quiet game against the Dolphins.
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Sunday, October 09, 2016
Sunday before Louisiana Tech--October 9th, 2016
I feel a little better about the Old Dominion loss after learning at least five UMass starters missed the game. It was hard to see UMass player numbers in the blurry video feed on my laptop. Hopefully, the extra day this week will allow some of most of them to return.
I've been meaning to mention Tedrick Lowery. He led the Minutemen in tackles against Florida and was 2nd in TT for FIU and Mississippi State. Over the first four games, I felt he was having a First Team All-Conference year (if we were in a conference). He was an impact player for the Minutemen. Hope he returns soon.
Another player we've already talked about is Joe Previte. He had another good game against Old Dominion. Previte had 3.0 TFL and 1.5 sacks and 6 TT. That's a lot of production for a defensive lineman. The Minutemen had 7 TFL in that game.
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The UMass Daily Collegian report the Minutemen lost their third straight at Old Dominion.
The Virginia Pilot says Ray Lawry and Jeremy Cox emerged as a potent one-two punch for the Monarchs.
The Daily Press reports Old Dominion pasted UMass.
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Florida-LSU was canceled due the hurricane.
Clemson cranked out nearly 500 yards of offense against Boston College's vaunted defense.
FIU won its second straight over UTEP.
Tulane-Central Florida was rescheduled.
Auburn handled Mississippi State 38-14.
South Carolina plays Georgia today at 2:30.
Columbia beat Wagner with a program-record five field goals.
Troy had a bye.
BYU had an impressive win at Michigan State.
Hawaii handled San Jose State.
I've been meaning to mention Tedrick Lowery. He led the Minutemen in tackles against Florida and was 2nd in TT for FIU and Mississippi State. Over the first four games, I felt he was having a First Team All-Conference year (if we were in a conference). He was an impact player for the Minutemen. Hope he returns soon.
Another player we've already talked about is Joe Previte. He had another good game against Old Dominion. Previte had 3.0 TFL and 1.5 sacks and 6 TT. That's a lot of production for a defensive lineman. The Minutemen had 7 TFL in that game.
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The UMass Daily Collegian report the Minutemen lost their third straight at Old Dominion.
The Virginia Pilot says Ray Lawry and Jeremy Cox emerged as a potent one-two punch for the Monarchs.
The Daily Press reports Old Dominion pasted UMass.
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Florida-LSU was canceled due the hurricane.
Clemson cranked out nearly 500 yards of offense against Boston College's vaunted defense.
FIU won its second straight over UTEP.
Tulane-Central Florida was rescheduled.
Auburn handled Mississippi State 38-14.
South Carolina plays Georgia today at 2:30.
Columbia beat Wagner with a program-record five field goals.
Troy had a bye.
BYU had an impressive win at Michigan State.
Hawaii handled San Jose State.
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