Well, the Minutemen played hard, but not much went right, especially offensively, in last night's game. The lone bright spot was UMass finally found it's running game as Marquis Young had 163 yards and over a 7 yards/carry average. The killer was the Monarchs finished drives with a field goal or a TD. UMass did not. The offense went 2-10 on third downs and 0-2 on fourth. Ford tossed two bad INT's, both of which stopped potential scoring drives.
The Minutemen defense was able to dial up pressure on Old Dominion's QB all night, but was vulnerable to the run. UMass' two best run stoppers, Shane Huber and Tedrick Lowery DNP. That hurt. UMass was also without Khary Bailey-Smith and Lee Moses in the secondary. Both starting safeties DNP.
QB Ross Comis was hurt. Not sure what his status is.
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UMass write-up.
Old Dominion's write-up.
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Dan Malone reports UMass suffered its third straight loss.
The Hampshire Gazette says UMass falls at Old Old Dominion.
Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" recaps the Old Dominion game.
The Virginia Pilot says the Monarchs bowled over the Minutemen.
The Daily Press reports Jeremy Cox's 162 yards and two TD's powered Old Dominion past UMass.
Rotoworld says Cox plowed his way to 162 yards and two TD's.
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Louisiana Tech's QB Ryan Higgins threw for 454 yards and five TD's in the Bull Dogs win over Western Kentucky.
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Clemson crushed Boston College 56-10.
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Saturday, October 08, 2016
Friday, October 07, 2016
Game Day Old Dominion--October 7th, 2016
Good Morning from Gettysburg, PA. Mrs Blog and I are in a fall-back position after leaving Tidewater. It's disappointing to miss the game after driving all that way, but hopefully I'll be at least able to get an audio feed.
The Minutemen face another challenge this week: an away game in bad weather in a short week. UMass faces yet another teams that likes to run the ball, so we need to stop the ground game while still defending the deep pass. The Minutemen need a win to get some momentum for the second half of the season.
The UMass defense has been tenacious this season. Faced with a series of Power Five teams, the defense has played well. The Minutemen need more offensive production. Hopefully the team of Comis' legs and Ford's passing ability will produce more points. If anything, opposing defenses will have to plan for both.
Go UMass!!!
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The game will be available on Conference USA-TV for a fee. You can get a 24 hour pass for $6.95.
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UPDATE: Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews the game and predicts Monarchs 27 Minutemen 21.
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Matty Vautour reports UMass is trying to reverse course at Old Dominion.
The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass prepares for the Monarchs after a change in schedule.
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The Daily Progress previews the UMass-Monarchs game.
The Virginia Pilot says UMass and Old Dominion are far different programs that when they met in 2011.
The Pilot picks Old Dominion over UMass 31-28.
Campus Insiders picks the Monarchs over the Minutemen 27-20.
Sports Handicapper reviews the point spread and points out "from every indicator, UMass has played a substantially tougher schedule".
The Richmond Times says UMass has played a savage schedule.
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The Salt Lake Tribune says if BYU does not get into the Big 12, it should stay independent.
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FBschedules.com looks at the college games affected by hurricane Matthew.
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The Minutemen face another challenge this week: an away game in bad weather in a short week. UMass faces yet another teams that likes to run the ball, so we need to stop the ground game while still defending the deep pass. The Minutemen need a win to get some momentum for the second half of the season.
The UMass defense has been tenacious this season. Faced with a series of Power Five teams, the defense has played well. The Minutemen need more offensive production. Hopefully the team of Comis' legs and Ford's passing ability will produce more points. If anything, opposing defenses will have to plan for both.
Go UMass!!!
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The game will be available on Conference USA-TV for a fee. You can get a 24 hour pass for $6.95.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UPDATE: Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews the game and predicts Monarchs 27 Minutemen 21.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Matty Vautour reports UMass is trying to reverse course at Old Dominion.
The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass prepares for the Monarchs after a change in schedule.
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The Daily Progress previews the UMass-Monarchs game.
The Virginia Pilot says UMass and Old Dominion are far different programs that when they met in 2011.
The Pilot picks Old Dominion over UMass 31-28.
Campus Insiders picks the Monarchs over the Minutemen 27-20.
Sports Handicapper reviews the point spread and points out "from every indicator, UMass has played a substantially tougher schedule".
The Richmond Times says UMass has played a savage schedule.
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The Salt Lake Tribune says if BYU does not get into the Big 12, it should stay independent.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FBschedules.com looks at the college games affected by hurricane Matthew.
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Thursday, October 06, 2016
Thursday before Old Dominion--October 6th, 2016
Well, Mrs Blog and I bailed out of Virginia Beach. We were right on the water and it just seemed to much of a chance to stay put. Our travel day would have Saturday or Sunday. Either way we could have been stuck in Tidewater. If the civilian authorities ordered an evacuation, we could have been competing with three quarters of a million people trying to get up I-64. UMass will have to win without us.
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Dan Malone talks about the status of the UMass team with the Old Dominion game bumped to 8:00 PM Friday.
Matty Vautour has some more details on the game move and media information for fans who want to listen or view streaming video.
The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass prepares for the Monarchs after a change in schedule.
The Virginia Pilot talks about game and the change in schedule.
The Augusta Free Press previews the UMass-Old Dominion game.
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Old Dominion players say their Black Lives Matter protest is largely misunderstood.
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The NCAA proposes sweeping changes to satellite camps and football signing periods.
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Victor Cruz supports Odell Beckham and says he should just play the game.
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Sports Blog has an interview with Tajae Sharpe.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dan Malone talks about the status of the UMass team with the Old Dominion game bumped to 8:00 PM Friday.
Matty Vautour has some more details on the game move and media information for fans who want to listen or view streaming video.
The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass prepares for the Monarchs after a change in schedule.
The Virginia Pilot talks about game and the change in schedule.
The Augusta Free Press previews the UMass-Old Dominion game.
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Old Dominion players say their Black Lives Matter protest is largely misunderstood.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The NCAA proposes sweeping changes to satellite camps and football signing periods.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Victor Cruz supports Odell Beckham and says he should just play the game.
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Sports Blog has an interview with Tajae Sharpe.
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Wednesday, October 05, 2016
Wednesday before Old Dominion--October 5th, 2016
Old Dominion has a preview for UMass up.
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The UMass-ODU football game may be moved to get around hurricane Matthew. Options could be Saturday at Noon or Friday night. Or the game could be canceled outright. Even if played Friday night, UMass could face trouble in getting a flight out.
Mrs Blog and I may be bailing out of the Tidewater area. Local officials say Matthew may be a "generational" storm.
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Matty Vautour says Whipple may use both Ford and Comis against Old Dominion.
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Bobby Wilder talks about Coach Whipple and the upcoming UMass game.
With Old Dominion, the Minutemen will be facing another team that wants to run the ball.
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Andrew Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian says UMass may play both quarterbacks against the Monarchs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
There's been quite a bit of discussion about attendance and student participation at UMass games. The NY Times reports that students are a problem all over the college football landscape. Basically, students would rather hang out and play with their personal electronics. And these schools are Power Five programs that win consistently.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The UMass-ODU football game may be moved to get around hurricane Matthew. Options could be Saturday at Noon or Friday night. Or the game could be canceled outright. Even if played Friday night, UMass could face trouble in getting a flight out.
Mrs Blog and I may be bailing out of the Tidewater area. Local officials say Matthew may be a "generational" storm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Matty Vautour says Whipple may use both Ford and Comis against Old Dominion.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bobby Wilder talks about Coach Whipple and the upcoming UMass game.
With Old Dominion, the Minutemen will be facing another team that wants to run the ball.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andrew Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian says UMass may play both quarterbacks against the Monarchs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
There's been quite a bit of discussion about attendance and student participation at UMass games. The NY Times reports that students are a problem all over the college football landscape. Basically, students would rather hang out and play with their personal electronics. And these schools are Power Five programs that win consistently.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, October 04, 2016
Tuesday before Old Dominion--October 4th, 2016
Mrs Blog and I drove to Virginia Beach by way of US17 from Fredericksburg to the bridge crossing over to the Norfork/Virginia Beach side of Tidewater. We stopped at George Washington's Birthplace National Monument. It's a real nice place. The atmosphere is quiet and serene. Far different from the I-95 and I-64 corridor craziness. If you like history, I highly recommend it. Listening to the Ranger give a talk on Washington's early life, both Mrs Blog and I were struck by contrast between Washington and the choices in the 2016 Presidential election...
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass has their game notes for Old Dominion up.
Monarch's HC Bobby Wilder's weekly press conference transcript.
Video interview with Wilder on Old Dominion's victory over Charlotte and the upcoming UMass game.
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NOLA.com has a post on Tulane's big offensive day against the Minutemen.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keeper's college football rankings has UMass at #113 after week #5 (.pdf download).
Keeper has Old Dominion a 16.5+ point favorite over the Minutemen (another .pdf download)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pilot Online says UMass players will join Old Dominion's Circle of Protest prior to Saturday's game.
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ESPN reports Victor Cruz feels like an athlete again.
Victor had five catches for 50 yards against the Vikings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tajae Sharpe, battling a hamstring problem, was held to two catches against the Texans.
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass has their game notes for Old Dominion up.
Monarch's HC Bobby Wilder's weekly press conference transcript.
Video interview with Wilder on Old Dominion's victory over Charlotte and the upcoming UMass game.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOLA.com has a post on Tulane's big offensive day against the Minutemen.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keeper's college football rankings has UMass at #113 after week #5 (.pdf download).
Keeper has Old Dominion a 16.5+ point favorite over the Minutemen (another .pdf download)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pilot Online says UMass players will join Old Dominion's Circle of Protest prior to Saturday's game.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ESPN reports Victor Cruz feels like an athlete again.
Victor had five catches for 50 yards against the Vikings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tajae Sharpe, battling a hamstring problem, was held to two catches against the Texans.
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Monday, October 03, 2016
Monday before Old Dominion--October 3rd, 2016
Good Morning from Fredericksburg, VA. Mrs Blog and I are heading for the Tidewater area for a short vacation and we'll also take in the UMass-Old Dominion game. I have a less than optimal internet connection and that might mean less content in the blog today.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" recaps the Tulane game.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Las Vegas has the Monarchs by 7 over UMass.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Virginia Pilot reflects on Old Dominion's most lopsided FBS victory.
The Charlotte Observer says the Monarchs were unstoppable.
The Charlotte and Old Dominion players linked arms is a show of unity.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The UMass Street festival was a success for both the students and the police.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" recaps the Tulane game.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Las Vegas has the Monarchs by 7 over UMass.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Virginia Pilot reflects on Old Dominion's most lopsided FBS victory.
The Charlotte Observer says the Monarchs were unstoppable.
The Charlotte and Old Dominion players linked arms is a show of unity.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The UMass Street festival was a success for both the students and the police.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, October 02, 2016
Sunday after Tulane--October 2nd, 2016
Well that was disappointing. UMass made some mistakes that we just could not make against a beatable team like Tulane. Once again, the Minutemen could not run the ball. Ford was ineffective after the first two series. The Minutemen WR corps, except for Andy Isabella, disappeared. The UMass defense, which was on the field a long time, did not wrap up in a couple of Tulane's possessions. And the UMass defensive secondary allowed a number of big plays over the top.
It ended up being an exciting game as Comis, still favoring his shoulder, brought us back in the fourth quarter. However, it ended up as another loss.
There was a very large crowd around the stadium, but it looked like most of the students didn't go in. And those that did left after the first quarter, when UMass was winning.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass write-up. Post game quotes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dan Malone says a change in quarterback was not enough to avoid a loss to Tulane.
He also reports an early surge was not enough to defeat Tulane.
Matty Vautour reports UMass faded after an early lead.
In his notes, Matty relates UMass was playing without three defensive starters.
The UMass Daily Collegian reports the Minutemen dropped a close game.
The Advocate reports Tulane had its biggest comeback win since 2009.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass opponents went 10-1 over the weekend. BYU beat Toledo Friday night.
Florida eeked out a win against Vanderbilt.
Boston College held Buffalo to 67 total yards.
FIU got their first win over FAU.
Old Dominion blasted Charlotte 52-17.
Louisiana Tech beat UTEP 28-7.
South Carolina lost to Texas A&M.
Troy spoiled Idaho's Homecoming.
Wagner crushed Sacred Heart.
Hawaii ended a nine-game conference losing streak.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
It ended up being an exciting game as Comis, still favoring his shoulder, brought us back in the fourth quarter. However, it ended up as another loss.
There was a very large crowd around the stadium, but it looked like most of the students didn't go in. And those that did left after the first quarter, when UMass was winning.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass write-up. Post game quotes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dan Malone says a change in quarterback was not enough to avoid a loss to Tulane.
He also reports an early surge was not enough to defeat Tulane.
Matty Vautour reports UMass faded after an early lead.
In his notes, Matty relates UMass was playing without three defensive starters.
The UMass Daily Collegian reports the Minutemen dropped a close game.
The Advocate reports Tulane had its biggest comeback win since 2009.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass opponents went 10-1 over the weekend. BYU beat Toledo Friday night.
Florida eeked out a win against Vanderbilt.
Boston College held Buffalo to 67 total yards.
FIU got their first win over FAU.
Old Dominion blasted Charlotte 52-17.
Louisiana Tech beat UTEP 28-7.
South Carolina lost to Texas A&M.
Troy spoiled Idaho's Homecoming.
Wagner crushed Sacred Heart.
Hawaii ended a nine-game conference losing streak.
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Saturday, October 01, 2016
Game Day--Tulane--October 1st, 2016
Hey! The weather is supposed to stop raining by 12:45 PM and shift to cloudy with a chance of showers by game time. Check the "McGuirk Weather" link in the blog sidebar. I'm going and hope to see all the UMass faithful.
Should be an interesting game with the Tulane spread option against Whipple's Pro Set. Last week against Mississippi State the UMass wide receivers showed what they can do. During the August practice I attended, the Minutemen were catching everything that was thrown. The UMass offense needs that quick strike. The last time we made the FCS playoffs with Whipple the offense had 20 or so scoring drives of less than 2 minutes. We need to score when we have the ball today to get around Tulane's ball control offense. I think we will.
Go UMass!!!
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In a distinct bummer, Mass Live has decided to cut UMass Sports coverage. Dan Malone will no longer be a beat reporter for UMass sports. Not a great business decision by MassLive.
The acid test of any writer is if you enjoy reading his stuff. Dan has always covered the Minutemen with class. He didn't add any personal axe grinding. In addition, he was always friendly and civil to me when I met him at various UMass functions, which definitely was not the case with some media types I interacted with.
I'm sure all UMass fans wish him well and hope his career continues.
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Matty Vautour has UMass hosts Tulane for Homecoming game.
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NESN+ will cover the game and it'll simulcast on NESN National.Here in Southern NH that will be channel 438 CSNCA on Dish Network.
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NOLA.com reports Tulane looks to slow down UMass' versatile offense.
"Big Easy Believer" predicts Green Wave 31 Minutemen 23.
The Tulane Hullabaloo says the Green Wave will be a strong contender against UMass.
The Advocate reports Tulane wants to add more passing to its offense.
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#23 Florida meets Vanderbilt.
Boston College hopes for another tuneup against Buffalo.
The 0-4 FIU Panthers meet Florida Atlantic.
Mississippi State has a bye.
Old Dominion plays Charlotte.
Louisiana Tech meets UTEP.
South Carolina meets #9 Texas A&M. Football is different down South: Aggie fans deep fry a South Carolina Helmet.
Wagner has Homecoming against Sacred Heart.
Troy travels west to meet Idaho.
BYU beat Toledo in a wild 55-53 game that ended early this morning.
Hawaii plays at home against Nevada.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Should be an interesting game with the Tulane spread option against Whipple's Pro Set. Last week against Mississippi State the UMass wide receivers showed what they can do. During the August practice I attended, the Minutemen were catching everything that was thrown. The UMass offense needs that quick strike. The last time we made the FCS playoffs with Whipple the offense had 20 or so scoring drives of less than 2 minutes. We need to score when we have the ball today to get around Tulane's ball control offense. I think we will.
Go UMass!!!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In a distinct bummer, Mass Live has decided to cut UMass Sports coverage. Dan Malone will no longer be a beat reporter for UMass sports. Not a great business decision by MassLive.
The acid test of any writer is if you enjoy reading his stuff. Dan has always covered the Minutemen with class. He didn't add any personal axe grinding. In addition, he was always friendly and civil to me when I met him at various UMass functions, which definitely was not the case with some media types I interacted with.
I'm sure all UMass fans wish him well and hope his career continues.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Matty Vautour has UMass hosts Tulane for Homecoming game.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NESN+ will cover the game and it'll simulcast on NESN National.Here in Southern NH that will be channel 438 CSNCA on Dish Network.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOLA.com reports Tulane looks to slow down UMass' versatile offense.
"Big Easy Believer" predicts Green Wave 31 Minutemen 23.
The Tulane Hullabaloo says the Green Wave will be a strong contender against UMass.
The Advocate reports Tulane wants to add more passing to its offense.
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#23 Florida meets Vanderbilt.
Boston College hopes for another tuneup against Buffalo.
The 0-4 FIU Panthers meet Florida Atlantic.
Mississippi State has a bye.
Old Dominion plays Charlotte.
Louisiana Tech meets UTEP.
South Carolina meets #9 Texas A&M. Football is different down South: Aggie fans deep fry a South Carolina Helmet.
Wagner has Homecoming against Sacred Heart.
Troy travels west to meet Idaho.
BYU beat Toledo in a wild 55-53 game that ended early this morning.
Hawaii plays at home against Nevada.
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Friday, September 30, 2016
Friday before Tulane--September 30th, 2016
Don't forget the UMass hoops slam dunk exhibition! OT, but basketball starts practice.
UMass homecoming parade before the game.
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Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews the UMass-Tulane game and says the Minutemen look to win their first Homecoming game since 2009.
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Campus Insiders picks UMass by four over the Green Wave, but in one paragraph they refer UMass as Alcorn State, so what do they know...
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News OK picks Tulane over UMass 19-14. They also pick Buffalo over BC. Note that Buffalo lost to Albany in the opening week.
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Tulane is prepared for a road test at UMass.
The New Orleans Advocate reports Tulane DE Ade Aruma is a athletic freak.
Green Wave punter Zack Block is becoming a weapon for Tulane.
A Tulane booster just gave $2.5 million to their athletic club.
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SB Nation says take UMass and the points.
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Watched Houston dismantle UConn last night 42-14.
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Your tax dollars at work: The National Institution of Health spends $50 thousand to discover if college students eat junk food when they drink.
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Thursday, September 29, 2016
Thursday before Tulane--September 29th, 2016
 |
| AP image |
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The UMass Daily Collegian says with a 63% completion ratio, Andrew Ford looks to lead the Minutemen for the foreseeable future.
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UMass' close loss to Mississippi State kept them out of ESPN's Bottom Ten.
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New Amherst restaurant Sunset Grill & Pizza will offer buy-one-slice, get one free if UMass beats Tulane Saturday.
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This article features RSSO DT Joe Previte 6-2 269. So far this year Previte has 4-2 GP-GS 2 UT 10 AT 12 TT 1.5-3 TFL and 1 fumble recovery (which was the one that ended FIU's chances).
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Tulane will feature a revamped offensive line against the Minutemen after starting center Junior Diaz suffered a season ending injury against Navy. John Leglue 6-7 298 will move to center and Kenneth Santa Marina 6-6 325 will move to Leglue's left tackle spot.
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Tulane HC Willie Fritz was pleased with the Green Wave's Wednesday practice.
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Tajae Sharpe was limited in Wednesday's Titan's practice due to a hamstring problem.
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Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Wednesday before Tulane--September 28th, 2016
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UMass hoops will hold a fan event before Saturday's Homecoming football game. This looks like it'll be fun!
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Matty Vautour reports Andrew Ford is comfortable running the UMass offense. I would infer that Ford will be at QB again against Tulane.
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 |
| Glen King image |
Coach Fritz warns the Green Wave not to get complacent after an emotional win over Louisiana Lafayette.
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Adam Aucoin of the UMass Daily Collegian reports Andy Isabella has found his niche in the UMass offense.
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The Bangor Daily News reports UCF and UMass will be Maine's next FBS opponent.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Sports Chat place looks at UMass-Tulane and has the Green Wave by 2 points.
Jeff Sagarin has Tulane 2 rating points ahead of UMass, but if you add three points for UMass being the home team (as per the heading), it's UMass by one.
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Victor Cruz is going to try to keep Odell Beckham cool.
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Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Tuesday before Tulane--September 27th, 2016
UMass has it's game notes for Tulane up.
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Tulane kicker Andrew DiRocco earned three weekly awards for his four field goal-three extra point performance against Louisiana Lafayette.
Green Wave LB Nico Marley earned a Louisiana weekly sportswriter award for his 11 TT 5 UT 1.0 SACK, 3.0 TFL 1 FF effort against Louisiana Lafayette.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tulane opens as a 4 point favorite over the Minutemen. Currently 2.5
Keepers College Football ratings has Tulane over the Minutemen by 12+ (.pdf download).
He has the Green Wave ranked at #87, Minutemen #118 (another .pdf download).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Former Green Wave football player Devon Walker looks to complete his education after suffering a devastating spinal cord injury in 2012.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AT & T boosts mobile internet coverage at Tulane's stadium.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fox Sports has five candidates to replace Ron Turner at FIU.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ESPN has the latest developments in the Big 12 expansion.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tajae Sharpe had only three receptions for 48 yards against the Raiders.
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-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tulane kicker Andrew DiRocco earned three weekly awards for his four field goal-three extra point performance against Louisiana Lafayette.
Green Wave LB Nico Marley earned a Louisiana weekly sportswriter award for his 11 TT 5 UT 1.0 SACK, 3.0 TFL 1 FF effort against Louisiana Lafayette.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tulane opens as a 4 point favorite over the Minutemen. Currently 2.5
Keepers College Football ratings has Tulane over the Minutemen by 12+ (.pdf download).
He has the Green Wave ranked at #87, Minutemen #118 (another .pdf download).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Former Green Wave football player Devon Walker looks to complete his education after suffering a devastating spinal cord injury in 2012.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AT & T boosts mobile internet coverage at Tulane's stadium.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fox Sports has five candidates to replace Ron Turner at FIU.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ESPN has the latest developments in the Big 12 expansion.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tajae Sharpe had only three receptions for 48 yards against the Raiders.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, September 26, 2016
Monday before Tulane--September 26th, 2016
Tulane's HC is Willie Fritz. He spent his last two years at Georgia Southern and went 9-3 in 2015 with the Eagles. Fritz brings the famous Georgia Southern spread offense to Tulane. At Georgia Southern in 2015, Fritz ran 1,370 times and passed 292 (82.4% rushing --per Phil Steele).
This year the Green Wave has rushed the ball 139-953 4.8 AVE 63 LONG 9 TD's 238 yards/game.
Passing 30-67-348 44.8% AVE 4 TD's 2 INT 102 yards/game.
Whipple went 1-1 against the Georgia Southern in FCS. The Minutemen rushing defense has been stout this year, but the spread offense will control the time of possession and will be tough to shut down. The UMass offense needs to score some points like we did with Mississippi State. Tulane's defense has been only giving up 21 points a game and held Wake Forest to 7 points. We need to score to win.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Florida International fired HC Ron Turner Sunday.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andrew Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian reports despite improvement, UMass has yet to capture a marquee Win.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Louisiana Lafayette (which lost to Tulane Satruday) newspaper discusses the problems Tulane's spread option offense gives opposing teams.
Green Wave QB Glen Cuiellette threw three TD's in Tulane's win over Louisiana Lafayette.
The Tulane win over Louisiana Lafayette was a four-overtime thriller.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newsday features current Jets RB coach Marcel Shipp. His Jets bio.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tulane is #119 and UMass is #125 in total offense.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OT, but I've been watching a lot of football and football commercials. Anyone besides me think the Burger King plastic faced avatar is kinda creepy? It has a Clockwork Orange vibe.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
This year the Green Wave has rushed the ball 139-953 4.8 AVE 63 LONG 9 TD's 238 yards/game.
Passing 30-67-348 44.8% AVE 4 TD's 2 INT 102 yards/game.
Whipple went 1-1 against the Georgia Southern in FCS. The Minutemen rushing defense has been stout this year, but the spread offense will control the time of possession and will be tough to shut down. The UMass offense needs to score some points like we did with Mississippi State. Tulane's defense has been only giving up 21 points a game and held Wake Forest to 7 points. We need to score to win.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Florida International fired HC Ron Turner Sunday.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andrew Cyr of the UMass Daily Collegian reports despite improvement, UMass has yet to capture a marquee Win.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Louisiana Lafayette (which lost to Tulane Satruday) newspaper discusses the problems Tulane's spread option offense gives opposing teams.
Green Wave QB Glen Cuiellette threw three TD's in Tulane's win over Louisiana Lafayette.
The Tulane win over Louisiana Lafayette was a four-overtime thriller.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newsday features current Jets RB coach Marcel Shipp. His Jets bio.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tulane is #119 and UMass is #125 in total offense.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OT, but I've been watching a lot of football and football commercials. Anyone besides me think the Burger King plastic faced avatar is kinda creepy? It has a Clockwork Orange vibe.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Sunday after Mississippi State--September 25th, 2016
Hey that was a good game. We were trading punches with an SEC team. They were better, but not by much. It was fun to watch and featured a couple of ESPN highlight reel catches by our receivers. The offense broke out with 411 total yards.
WE made some mistakes and Mississippi State made some good ones. I still feel this team is light years ahead of the past in athletic ability and grit. Be sure to check out the post game quotes where Whipple said he enjoys coaching this team and he enjoyed coaching this game.
We were right there with 'em all game. I truly believe the future is bright.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass' writeup. Post game quotes.
Mississippi State writeup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mike Traini of Fight Massachusetts recaps the game.
Dan Malone says the UMass comeback attempt came up short.
Video of Coach Whipple's post game interview.
Matty Vautour says UMass was unable to hold the lead.
Matty says Andrew Ford played well enough to continue to start.
The Jackson Clarion Ledger says Mississippi State avoided the upset.
Maroon & White nation has five Bulldog players who played well against UMass.
SB Nation highlights Jalen Williams outrageous catch.
For Whom the Cowbell Tolls has five quick thoughts about the game.
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Florida lost by 10 at Tennessee.
Boston College beat Wagner 42-10.
UCF crushed FIU 53-14.
Tulane beat Louisiana Lafayette in 4 overtimes.
Old Dominion beat UTSA 33-19.
Louisiana Tech lost to Middle Tennesse State 38-34.
South Carolina lost to Kentucky in a defensive struggle.
Troy blew out New Mexico State.
BYU lost to West Virginia.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WE made some mistakes and Mississippi State made some good ones. I still feel this team is light years ahead of the past in athletic ability and grit. Be sure to check out the post game quotes where Whipple said he enjoys coaching this team and he enjoyed coaching this game.
We were right there with 'em all game. I truly believe the future is bright.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
UMass' writeup. Post game quotes.
Mississippi State writeup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mike Traini of Fight Massachusetts recaps the game.
Dan Malone says the UMass comeback attempt came up short.
Video of Coach Whipple's post game interview.
Matty Vautour says UMass was unable to hold the lead.
Matty says Andrew Ford played well enough to continue to start.
The Jackson Clarion Ledger says Mississippi State avoided the upset.
Maroon & White nation has five Bulldog players who played well against UMass.
SB Nation highlights Jalen Williams outrageous catch.
For Whom the Cowbell Tolls has five quick thoughts about the game.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Florida lost by 10 at Tennessee.
Boston College beat Wagner 42-10.
UCF crushed FIU 53-14.
Tulane beat Louisiana Lafayette in 4 overtimes.
Old Dominion beat UTSA 33-19.
Louisiana Tech lost to Middle Tennesse State 38-34.
South Carolina lost to Kentucky in a defensive struggle.
Troy blew out New Mexico State.
BYU lost to West Virginia.
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Saturday, September 24, 2016
Game Day Mississippi State--September 24th, 2016
Another Saturday, another SEC team. Another real challenge to a still building UMass squad. Unlike Michigan or Wisconsin in our first couple of years, I think the Minutemen will be competitive again today. It'll be a good day to work on our run game and get Ford more reps.
I was really impressed with the UMass defensive secondary last week with their nine pass BkUp's. The Bulldog's offense has not been very productive so far this year. Mississippi State is #109 in total offense. If the UMass defense can keep the game reasonable into the fourth quarter. We could have a chance. Or we could get run over by a big, physical SEC team. After today, six of the eight remaining games are against Group-of-five opponents.
In addition, the 2016 Minutemen recruiting class continues to shine. In the weekly Gridiron Club e-mail Coach Whipple said:" What is really exciting is that we had 13 freshmen play a combined 330 plays which is really promising for the direction of our program. "
I was really impressed with the UMass defensive secondary last week with their nine pass BkUp's. The Bulldog's offense has not been very productive so far this year. Mississippi State is #109 in total offense. If the UMass defense can keep the game reasonable into the fourth quarter. We could have a chance. Or we could get run over by a big, physical SEC team. After today, six of the eight remaining games are against Group-of-five opponents.
In addition, the 2016 Minutemen recruiting class continues to shine. In the weekly Gridiron Club e-mail Coach Whipple said:" What is really exciting is that we had 13 freshmen play a combined 330 plays which is really promising for the direction of our program. "
That does not include JUCO's Andrew Ford, Ali Ali-Musa, Tedrick Lowery, Colbert Calhoun and more.
I'll be at Gillette. Hope to see everyone there. Go UMass!!!
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Matty Vautour says UMass seeks a Power Five victory.
Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews today's game.
Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews today's game.
NESN says UMass-Mississippi State highlights their Saturday schedule. BTW, here in Southern NH, the game will be on Dish Network's channel 440 ALT.
The Boston Herald reports the Minutemen look to shock Mississippi State.
Fox Sports reports Mississippi State looks to put together a total game at UMass.
Team Speed Kills predicts Bulldogs 34 Minutemen 13.
dJournal.com says Power Five opponents are nothing new for UMass.
Maroon & White Nation says the keys to victory for the the Bulldogs is to manhandle UMass.
The Hattiesburg American says it's no time like the present for Mississippi State to start winning.
The Columbus Dispatch has five things to watch for in the Mississippi State-UMass game.
First year Mississippi State DL coach Brian Baker considers the state of the Bulldogs defensive line.
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Friday, September 23, 2016
Friday before Mississippi State--September 23rd, 2016
Matty Vautour has a post on college football and says North Dakota State is an FCS team to be avoided.
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Nick Traini has a list of recruits that attended the UMass-FIU game.
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Gobbler Country says take UMass and the points.
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The American Sports Network has a post on the Andrew Ford to Adam Breneman connection.
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Bulldogs 247 says Mississippi State QB Nick Fitzgerald looks to bounce back against UMass.
SEC Country reports Fitzgerald looks to have a big day against the Minutemen.
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A Clarion Register writer picks Mississippi State 35-UMass 14.
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Vanderbilt Hustler says the Bulldogs have five winnable games coming up starting with UMass this Saturday.
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Maroon & White nation reports on the Bulldogs fall-off in rushing production over the last two years.
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In 2016 opponent news:
#19 Florida meets Tennessee. Gator QB Luke Del Rio is out with an injury.
BC meets "lowly" Wagner.
FIU meets UCF.
Tulane plays at home vs Louisiana Lafayette.
Old Dominion plays 1-2 UTSA.
Louisiana Tech meets Middle Tennessee State.
South Carolina meets Kentucky.
Troy faces New Mexico.
BYU flies East to meet West Virginia.
Hawaii has a bye.
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Nick Traini has a list of recruits that attended the UMass-FIU game.
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Gobbler Country says take UMass and the points.
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The American Sports Network has a post on the Andrew Ford to Adam Breneman connection.
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Bulldogs 247 says Mississippi State QB Nick Fitzgerald looks to bounce back against UMass.
SEC Country reports Fitzgerald looks to have a big day against the Minutemen.
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A Clarion Register writer picks Mississippi State 35-UMass 14.
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Vanderbilt Hustler says the Bulldogs have five winnable games coming up starting with UMass this Saturday.
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Maroon & White nation reports on the Bulldogs fall-off in rushing production over the last two years.
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In 2016 opponent news:
#19 Florida meets Tennessee. Gator QB Luke Del Rio is out with an injury.
BC meets "lowly" Wagner.
FIU meets UCF.
Tulane plays at home vs Louisiana Lafayette.
Old Dominion plays 1-2 UTSA.
Louisiana Tech meets Middle Tennessee State.
South Carolina meets Kentucky.
Troy faces New Mexico.
BYU flies East to meet West Virginia.
Hawaii has a bye.
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Thursday, September 22, 2016
Thursday before Mississippi State--September 22, 2016
Today's the autumn equinox at 14.21 UT. It's autumn in New England. My favorite time of year.
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Mississippi State features a power running attack. In three games the Bulldogs have nearly doubled opponents rushing yards 585 to 305. Mississippi State has averaged 5.3 yards a carry. That's against two SEC opponents (LSU and South Carolina).
Their leading gainer is huge QB Nick Fitzgerald (6-5 230) He totaled 32-240 6.8 AVE 74 LONG 73.0 yards/game.
Next is RB Brandon Halloway (5-8 165) 31-111 3.6 AVE 1 TD 22 LONG 37.0 yards/game
The third leading rusher is QB Damian Williams (6-1 229) 15-88 5.9 AVE 1 TD 23 LONG 44.0 yards/game
RB Ashton Shumpet (6-2 218) is fourth with 14-76 5.9 AVE 11 LONG 25.3 yards/game.
Saturday should be a busy day for the Minutemen linebackers. They'll have to contend with the Bulldog running backs and keep contain on Fitzgerald who should be a load to tackle since he's bigger than any of the UMass LB's.
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Matty Vautour has a podcast about the win over FIU and speaks with a Tennessee Titans writer about Tajae Sharpe's success in the NFL.
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Adam Aucoin of the UMass Daily Collegian reports UMass is looking for an upset against Mississippi State.
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Mike Train of "Fight Massachusetts" has five questions for Paul Jones of Bulldogs 247.
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FIU coach knows "FIU should have beaten UMass".
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Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen is pleased with the way the UMass schedule turned out.
The Bulldogs defense is using different personnel to improve their third down performance.
Maroon & White nation power ranks the SEC going into Week #4.
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BC coach Steve Addazio says UMass was "pretty athletic".
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Mississippi State features a power running attack. In three games the Bulldogs have nearly doubled opponents rushing yards 585 to 305. Mississippi State has averaged 5.3 yards a carry. That's against two SEC opponents (LSU and South Carolina).
Their leading gainer is huge QB Nick Fitzgerald (6-5 230) He totaled 32-240 6.8 AVE 74 LONG 73.0 yards/game.
Next is RB Brandon Halloway (5-8 165) 31-111 3.6 AVE 1 TD 22 LONG 37.0 yards/game
The third leading rusher is QB Damian Williams (6-1 229) 15-88 5.9 AVE 1 TD 23 LONG 44.0 yards/game
RB Ashton Shumpet (6-2 218) is fourth with 14-76 5.9 AVE 11 LONG 25.3 yards/game.
Saturday should be a busy day for the Minutemen linebackers. They'll have to contend with the Bulldog running backs and keep contain on Fitzgerald who should be a load to tackle since he's bigger than any of the UMass LB's.
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Matty Vautour has a podcast about the win over FIU and speaks with a Tennessee Titans writer about Tajae Sharpe's success in the NFL.
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Adam Aucoin of the UMass Daily Collegian reports UMass is looking for an upset against Mississippi State.
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Mike Train of "Fight Massachusetts" has five questions for Paul Jones of Bulldogs 247.
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FIU coach knows "FIU should have beaten UMass".
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Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen is pleased with the way the UMass schedule turned out.
The Bulldogs defense is using different personnel to improve their third down performance.
Maroon & White nation power ranks the SEC going into Week #4.
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BC coach Steve Addazio says UMass was "pretty athletic".
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Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Wednesday before Mississippi State--September 21st, 2016
Matty Vautour has a post on Mississippi State's Dan Mullen, who's a New Hampshire native. Mullen's Mississippi State bio.
Matty also reports that Ross Comis is still limited by an injury. Whipple said he like John Robinson-Woodget as a late-game clock killer. I'd use him for more than that. He'd be my choice for a third down and anything inside the five yard marker.
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The UMass Daily Collegian says Comis and Ford are still neck-and-neck for starting QB.
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Bulldog fans will be able to watch the UMass-Mississippi State game on local TV.
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Mississippi State has a QB controversy of their own. Bulldog QB Nick Fitzgerald is 6-5 230. He's an SEC-sized quarterback.
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A CBS writer has UMass out of his "bottom 25" list.
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Florida is trying to poach Mississippi State's A.D.
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Fan Sided wants Mississippi State to run the ball more on third down.
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Victor Cruz set the Giants up for a game-winning field goal last Sunday.
The NY Post says Cruz went up and came down with a legendary comeback.
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Matty also reports that Ross Comis is still limited by an injury. Whipple said he like John Robinson-Woodget as a late-game clock killer. I'd use him for more than that. He'd be my choice for a third down and anything inside the five yard marker.
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The UMass Daily Collegian says Comis and Ford are still neck-and-neck for starting QB.
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Bulldog fans will be able to watch the UMass-Mississippi State game on local TV.
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| Butch Dill image |
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A CBS writer has UMass out of his "bottom 25" list.
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Florida is trying to poach Mississippi State's A.D.
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Fan Sided wants Mississippi State to run the ball more on third down.
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Victor Cruz set the Giants up for a game-winning field goal last Sunday.
The NY Post says Cruz went up and came down with a legendary comeback.
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Tuesday, September 20, 2016
Tuesday before Mississippi State--September 20th 2016
UMass has its game notes for the Mississippi State game up.
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Bulldogs HC Dan Mullen previews the Mississippi State-UMass game.
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The Bulldogs will wear Patriots-themed unis for their visit to Gillette.
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Matty Vautour reports Coach Whipple didn't shed much light on the QB situation during Monday's phone interview.
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Keepers college football rankings has UMass #110 and Mississippi State at #80 (.pdf download).
He has the Bulldogs as a 19+ point favorite.
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History of Mississippi State traditions. Bulldog fans have special dispensation from the SEC to use cowbells during league games.
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The Clarion-Ledger says Bulldog DB Cedric Jiles and DL Wil Coleman may be available for the UMass game.
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Andrew Cyr of the Daily Collegian reports on the QB situation and relates Coach Whipple said "Mississippi State is a different animal than FIU".
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Maroon & White Nation relates how UMass and Mississippi State ended up playing after both sides needed to fill their 2016 schedule.
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Conference USA took it on the chin last Saturday with FIU and four other C-USA teams losing to Group-of-Five games.
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East Carolina's Zay Jones had a mind-boggling 22 receptions against South Carolina last Saturday.
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Bulldogs HC Dan Mullen previews the Mississippi State-UMass game.
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The Bulldogs will wear Patriots-themed unis for their visit to Gillette.
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Matty Vautour reports Coach Whipple didn't shed much light on the QB situation during Monday's phone interview.
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Keepers college football rankings has UMass #110 and Mississippi State at #80 (.pdf download).
He has the Bulldogs as a 19+ point favorite.
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History of Mississippi State traditions. Bulldog fans have special dispensation from the SEC to use cowbells during league games.
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The Clarion-Ledger says Bulldog DB Cedric Jiles and DL Wil Coleman may be available for the UMass game.
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Andrew Cyr of the Daily Collegian reports on the QB situation and relates Coach Whipple said "Mississippi State is a different animal than FIU".
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Maroon & White Nation relates how UMass and Mississippi State ended up playing after both sides needed to fill their 2016 schedule.
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Conference USA took it on the chin last Saturday with FIU and four other C-USA teams losing to Group-of-Five games.
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East Carolina's Zay Jones had a mind-boggling 22 receptions against South Carolina last Saturday.
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Monday, September 19, 2016
Monday before Mississippi State-September 19th, 2016
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Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" recaps Saturday's game against FIU. As he says, it wasn't artistic, but we've beaten the one Group-of-Five team we've met. That's a start.
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Matty Vautour has a post about Andrew Ford and Adam Breneman were back on the field together at McGuirk on Saturday.
He also reports Victor Cruz and Tajae Sharpe helped their teams to victory in NFL Week #2.
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Las Vegas has Mississippi State by 23 over the Minutemen.
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Mississippi State saturates the Cleveland area with billboards touting former Bulldog players.
The 2017 schedule for Mississippi State is out. We play 'em the week before the Bulldogs play Alabama. Maybe UMass can catch them looking ahead.
For whom the cowbell tolls, says the Bulldogs need a fired up Dan Mullen.
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