Mind your P's & Q's!

2252 In pubs throughout Britain, ale is ordered by pints and quarts... So in the old days, when customers got unruly, the bartender would yell at them 'Mind your pints and quarts, and settle down.' It's where we get the phrase 'mind your P's and Q's' Afterall, many of us come to the ESPN FanProfiles to try to learn something, for some healthy banter, and for varied sports information, directly from other fans. Hopefully in this endeavor, you don't encounter too many<strike> "unruly customers".</strike> Weeks ago, when the profile changes took place, we posed a suggestion to the ESPN Fan Profiles developers in L.A., requesting basic information letting users know the benefits behind the recent changes and the profiles' "upgrade".  It was hoped to alleviate active users concerns about the changes in the profiles.  The feedback "conversation" thread has been removed and replaced with the "Customer Care" site tool. The reason for this is in the response that follows: RESPONSE#4: (from the members of the moderation team): "The change in that was to let customer service work more with people who are having individual problems because of computer settings." They are referring to the Customer Care Team, in Nebraska, who can be reached directly at (888)549-ESPN if you have questions for them directly. They have been a great resource for many of the users, and thanks to Corey, Josh, and Luke for their assistance. Even if they are Huskers. Active users of the profiles can use this forum to post their comments, feedback, explanations, and suggestions for others to review, share information, and reply. People are less resistant to change when they can see the benefits of such "upgrades". Think Win-Win, let's Synergize, and try to proactively provide useful feedback to help ESPN continue to "sharpen the saw". RESPONSE #1: Response directly from one of the ESPN FanProfiles developers in L.A.: FINDABILITY! : "I think you'll have your explanation coming, but taking a stab at it, I'd say it's all about findability. Without the new changes, how would you know when one of your friends published a blog post? Left a comment? Became friends with someone new? Uploaded a new photo? With ratings...how do we know what the best content is? How would someone new to the site know who the good bloggers are? Best photos? A new user would have no friends, and thus a very static page where nothing appears to be happening, when in fact, we have a crazy active community for people to join. We also added spanish support to help grow that community. Again, I think something more for reasoning is coming down the pipes, but that's part of it. I really like to be able to see what my friends have been doing at a glance." RESPONSE#2: (from a direct email from a Senior Level ESPN Producer) SPORTSNATION! :  "On Monday July 6th, 2009, ESPN2 will be debuting our new "SportsNation" show, daily at 4PM. There is a complete rundown and preview of this exciting programming on <a href="http://www.espn.go.com/sportsnation/">www.espn.go.com/sportsnation/</a> which has also been updated with the new look of SportsNation.  It is  the FANS' voice that will be the driving influence of "SportsNation".  Interactive fan communication will primarily be coming via the SportsNation Fan Profiles.  This was the primary cause for many of the recent changes, as I understand it. Hope this answers many questions of the users, and look forward to "SportsNation" with Colin Cowherd and Michelle Beadle right after the Fourth of July Weekend! There will be further enhancements as needed. Thanks for all the feedback, as we continue to expand and grow the active Fan Profile community of SportsNation!" RESPONSE #3 ( from ESPN FanProfiles moderation team member): STREAMING FEEDS!: "SportsNation TV is more closely tied to the SN index upgrades than the profiles. Fan content should be featured on the show, although polling will probably get bigger play than individual posts (I'm guessing since I haven't been in rehearsals). Features (no single driving force) of the upgrade were improved collection pages of fan content (blogs and eventually photos), better searchability and tagging, addition of voting on everything, better blog interface, twitter. Pretty much every social networking site is influenced by the big players (FACEBOOK), and philosophically, there's a trend across the board to have these stream type of feeds, which a lot of people find confusing the first time they see them. I see pros and cons." JUST PASSING THIS AND ANY HELPFUL DIRECT RESPONSES ALONG...ANY tips, Explanations, Information, and Feedback are greatly appreciated in the comments on this post...and THANKS! true

2009-06-08T17:17:28Z

86990 28 Mind your P's & Q's!

2009-09-08T23:51:25Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ScottiShark/blog/posts/86990

2008-04-14T12:59:31Z

2252 The SCOTTISH SHARK's Musings:

2008-06-02T10:20:26Z

168176

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ScottiShark/blog ScottiShark http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ScottiShark 1103953 As most of you already know college football is just around the corner. Soon you will have more games too chose from then you'll know what to do with. This list is to prevent you from spending an unproductive weekend on your couch. Here's my Opening Weekend edition of 10 games to watch in college football. 10. Colorado State @ Colorado : At first glance not to appealing but in state rivalries are always fun and these two teams tend to produce interesting matchups year in and year out.  Prediction : Colorado State 27 Colorado 24 9. #11 LSU @ Washington : This would appear to be a blow out with the Huskies coming off of an 0-12 season and the Tigers in the top 15, but with how often the PAC 10 and SEC square off I had to include it. It's nice to see an SEC team get out of their comfort zone for once. Prediction : LSU 45 Washington 21 8. #8 Ole Miss @ Memphis : The Rebels are entering the season with high expectations under Houston Nutt, but the fact remains they are the only team from the SEC West to never appear in the conference title. The schedule is set up for them to do it this year with no Florida, but it starts on the road with the rival Tigers. Prediction : Ole Miss 34 Memphis 10 7. Nevada @ #23 Notre Dame : Does this ever really end? It seems every year we are left wondering how ND ended up with their absurdly high preseason ranking. Some Domers are even predicting BCS appearances and Lou Holtz has slated them for the National Championship. The schedule does set up for a decent season but I don't see a 10 or 11 win season. That would mean they would have to beat BC or MSU for a change. As far as Nevada, they return playmaking QB Kaepernick and had one of the best run games in 08. Does anyone remember San Diego State last season? This is my upset special. Prediction : Nevada 42 Notre Dame 38 6. Maryland @ #12 Cal : The Golden Bears were embarrassed last year and are going to be seeking revenge. Jeff Tedford has put together a defense that could be the best in the Pac 10, and with Heisman contender Jahvid Best carrying the football some Bears fans are smelling roses. Prediction : Cal 35 Maryland 14 5. Miami(FL) @ #18 Florida State : Oh how times have changed. In the 90's this game would have had national championship implications. Now both programs are dwarfed by the Gators. This should still be a good game though with implications in the ACC. If Bowden ever wants to catch Paterno the time is now Prediction : FSU 24 Miami 21  4. #20 BYU vs #4 Oklahoma (Cowboys Stadium) : Bronco Mendenhall says his team is ready for a game like this, but I'm not sure how many voters believe him. The Mountain West is looking for respect, and this would be a good place to start. The only problem is what's standing in their way. Heisman trophy winner Sam Bradford is ready to make another National championship run and will not overlook this game. Add in a chance to see the new Cowboys Stadium and this one's a must watch.  Prediction : Oklahoma 52 BYU 31 3. #16 Oregon @ #14 Boise State : This one's a thursday night opener and has all the makings of a classic. Last year the Broncos went into Autzen and stole the thunder from the Ducks. This year Oregon has a chance to return the favor with QB Masoli leading the charge, but  it won't be easy. Boise State is returning 17 starters including QB Kellen Moore from a team that went undefeated in the regular season. Add in that this is the biggest game in smurf turf history and you have a nightmare scenario for the Ducks. Prediction : Boise State 41 Oregon 37 2. # 13 Georgia @ #9 Oklahoma State : Who doesn't love a top 15 matchup between the SEC and Big 12? Answer: BIG 12. Last  year at the biggest stage they were embarrassed and once again allowed the SEC to claim dominance over college football. After the Cowboys Holiday Bowl loss they have to defend the conference's honor as well as their own. OSU is not the only one who has something to prove. The Bulldogs were preseason #1 last season and really had a let down. Add in that they're replacing Moreno and Stafford, and this looks like a big test. Prediction : OSU 40 Georgia 28 1. #5 Alabama vs #7 Virginia Tech : At last the weekend's primetime game and only matchup between top 10 teams. The ACC is depending on VT to deflect questions about the perceptions of the conference's weakness. A victory over the Tide would all but assure the Hokies will be given national championship consideration. Bama has something to prove in this one. After cruising to a 12-0 start. They fell in a close one to the Gators and were subsequently embarrassed in the Sugar Bowl by the Utes prompting calls for change to the system. Prediction : Virginia Tech 38 Alabama 35 true

2009-08-25T18:10:09Z

92467 27 10 games to watch for college football opening weekend.

2009-10-19T21:36:24Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2/blog/posts/92467

2008-11-10T06:37:25Z

1103953 pettyofficerkeller2's Blog

2008-11-10T06:37:25Z

5053625

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2/blog pettyofficerkeller2 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2 1103953 The long opening weekend of college football is now complete, and not without surprises and storylines. From LaGerrate Blount punching a Boise defender to Bradford leaving the game near halftime it has been an exciting weekend. For me, week 1 was a mixture of success with some epic failures. Most notably picking Notre Dame to lose by 4, then watching them beat the wolfpack by 35. I think it is safe to say after last year's Hawaii bowl and this year's opener the Irish would do well in the WAC. For me week one went Overall:6-4 Against the spread: 5-5. Could have been worse but not making a whole lot of money either. Week 2 again has some intriguing matchups.  10. Fresno State @ Wisconsin: This is the second year in a row these teams meat on the same day as the USC-Buckeye showdown and if it goes anything like last years game we should be in for a good one. Coach Bielema and the Badgers are coming off a disappointing season, and a less than stellar opener against Northern Illinois. Meanwhile in Fresno Bulldog fans are fed up with coach Hill's constant talk of busting the BCS while unable to win the WAC. It's kind of a put up or shut up year for him and the Bulldogs. Fresno's special teams play could be a factor in this one. Last week against UC Davis Fresno blocked their 45th punt since 2002, the most of any team in the nation in that time period, and had 2 blocked kicks in last year's contest with the Badgers. I don’t think that will happen though. Prediction:Wisconsin 16 Fresno State 10 9. Iowa @ Iowa State: Their have been grumbles from Hawkeye fans about discontinuing the series with Iowa State. Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz isn't having it. He insists this instate battle for bragging rights is here to stay pointing out the Cyclones have been to 5 bowl games this decade. More than Illinois or Michigan State, and Ferentz is currently 4-6 against ISU. Rivalry game aside the Hawkeyes have something to prove. After last weeks block party, in which Iowa needed 2 blocked kicks in the final seven seconds to beat Northern Iowa, people are wondering whether the Hawkeyes are on their way to a losing season. The time to prove them wrong is now Prediction: Iowa 24 Iowa State 10 8. Purdue @ Oregon: Has anyone ever had a worse first day on the job than Chip Kelly? He took the job at a program with a preseason 16 ranking and Pac 10 championship asperations. In one night he was 0-1, out of the rankings with a PR disaster on his hands and his starting running back gone for the season. You know you've had a bad day when the fact that your team couldn't get a first down until mid way through the 3rd quarter is the last thing on your mind. Meanwhile the Boiler makers under first year coach Danny Hope had an impressive rushing attack against Toledo. They will look for that momentum to carry over against the Ducks Prediction: Oregon 34 Purdue 20 7. Stanford @ Wake Forest: Coach Harbaugh is beginning to turn things around at Stanford which is evident considering the schools decision to fork over a lot of cash for his new bathroom. Last week the Cardinal opened up Pac 10 play with a convincing win over Washington State, but this week they travel all the way across the country to take on ACC foe Wake Forest who has had success under coach Jim Grobe but lost a tough one last week to Baylor. Prediction: Stanford 27 Wake Forest 24 6. #19 North Carolina @ Connecticut: North Carolina was dominate defensively in their opener. They're going to get a tougher test this week when they face a Connecticut team who despite losing their top rusher, has potential to be a dominate running force. This will also be a revenge game for the huskies. Then #24 Connecticut was upset by the Tar Heels last season. The start of a 2-5 stretch to end a promising season which began 5-0. Prediction: North Carolina 28 Connecticut 21 5. East Carolina @ West Virginia: Skip Holtz has built a team capable of upsets at ECU, and no program knows it better than West Virginia. Last season the Mountaineers were embarrassed 24-3. This year it will be interesting to see how WVU fares against a Pirates team returning many players from that contest. It will also be interesting to see how West Virginia fares in the post Pat White era. They still have a talented and speedy running back in Noel Divine that could get East Carolina trouble. I think the Pirates will be able to overcome though. Prediction: East Carolina 30 West Virginia 27 4. South Carolina @ #21 Georgia: The post Matthew Stafford era did not get off to a good start last week. The Bulldogs were beat by a better cowboy team in Boone Pickens new stadium. Meanwhile the ol'ball coach won a hard fought defensive battle against North Carolina State. Prediction: Georgia 16 South Carolina 7 3. Clemson @ #15 Georgia Tech: Paul Johnson enters his second season running the Triple Option offense at Georgia Tech. Although not thrilled with his team's opening victory he is confident they can improve and contend for the Coastal Division title. Jonathan Dwyer the 2008 ACC player of the year will need to have a big game if the Yellow Jackets want to hold off Clemson. The Tigers have some injury questions from their running back C.J. Spiller who tweaked his hamstring in the second quarter and did not return in Clemson's 37-14 victory over Middle Tennessee State but Clemson coach Dabo Swinney insists that Spiller will be ready to play and could have returned in last weekends game but didn't want to risk further injury. Prediction:GT 17 Clemson 10 2. #18 Notre Dame @ Michigan: I'm big enough to admit when I'm wrong. Last week I was embarrassed by Notre Dame. I was convinced that ND was the same Irish team from the last 2 years, and the media was to blame for their absurdly high preseason ranking. I know they were playing Nevada, but they shut down a really good offense with an outstanding qb for 4 quarters. I'll admit that they deserve their ranking. They face an interesting challenge this week from the wolverines and second year coach Rich Rodriguez in one of the underrated rivalries in college football. Rodriguez and the Wolverines got by Western Michigan last week with solid defense play and a good game from freshman quarterback Tate Forcier who went 13 of 20 for 179 yards and 3 TD passes. They're going to need another good game out of him as they face a defense who shut out one of the nations top rushing offenses from 2008 who were returning 3 1000 yard rushers. Prediction: Notre Dame 27 Michigan 13 1. #3 USC @ #8 Ohio State: At last the game of the week if not the season. The premier non-conference match up of the 2009 season, and the game the Buckeyes have had circled on their calender since September 13, 2008. The Buckeyes will get their chance at revenge for the 35-3 beat down they took at the hands of the Trojans last year at the coliseum. This is more than just 2 top 10 teams squaring off in the regular season. This is 2 of the 4 of 5 premier BCS programs meeting for a larger than life showdown. They have a combined 14 BCS appearances, 10 BCS victories, and 2 1/2 national championships between the 2 of them in the BCS era. This is also a must win for the Big 10 conference. There is a national perception that the conference is week due mostly to OSU's inability to win big games. Also the Big Ten's inability to beat USC. The Trojans have beaten everybody the Big Ten's thrown at them by double digits the past seven years. To make matters worse it was all against the Big Ten's top teams Ohio St., Penn St., Mich, Iowa, Illinois. They need to find a way to make the game close and get their reputation back. They have a shot, Terrell Pryor is a tremendous quarterback and is facing a young defense but I don't think it will be enough. Prediction: USC 31 Ohio State 17 true

2009-09-10T21:37:07Z

93868 24 Week 2: Ten games to watch for college football

2009-09-17T18:02:27Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2/blog/posts/93868

2008-11-10T06:37:25Z

1103953 pettyofficerkeller2's Blog

2008-11-10T06:37:25Z

5053625

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2/blog pettyofficerkeller2 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2 707361 ESPN's BUTTHURT FORM Date and time you experienced the butthurt _________________________________________ PLEASE DESCRIBE THE NATURE OF YOUR BUTTHURT ____ Bill Simmons article ____ Message board post ____ Game conversation thread ____ ESPN Blog Post ____ Mike Ditka game prediction ____ ESPN Article ____ Streak For The Cash meltdown ____ Other (please specify) PLEASE TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE INCIDENT OF BUTTHURT ____ ESPN posted an article about my team(s) I didn't agree with ____ Someone wrote something that brought back bad memories and made me cry ____ I asked someone to critique my fantasy team ____ Someone posted a naughty word that hurt my virgin eyes and ESPN failed to block it due to the ability to use periods to get past the censors ____ I lost an argument regarding my team and now my chat room cred is shot to hell ____ I can't stop picking losers on Streak for the Cash ____ I resorted to name calling and was labeled as acting childish ____ Other (please describe and attach additional sheets if necessary) (Y) (N) Were there tears? (Y) (N) Was there permanent scarring from the butthurt? (Y) (N) Did you lose sleep from the butthurt? (Y) (N) Did you miss work or did your productivity drop from battling the butthurt? (Y) (N) Were you forced to employ a coping mechanism, such as turning off your phone or computer for a while and going outside? (Y) (N) Were there any incidents of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome resulting from you typing long winded butthurt rebuttals?   PLEASE TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE PERSON THAT CAUSED THE BUTTHURT ____ They are a big, mean, poopy pants who should be banned from the internet forever until they learn that I am right and superior and they are wrong and should worship me now ____ They deserve to be hunted down like a dog and shot on their front porch ____ They should be kicked out of the US because we just DON'T do chit like that here ____ They should have to post the Detroit Lions as their favorite team (and only the Detroit Lions) ____ They should be deported to Canada ____ They should be just as accountable for their actions online as they are in the real world ____ All of the above DID YOU TAKE ANY ACTIONS YOURSELF REGARDING THE BUTTHURT ____ I wrote a three thousand word response detailing the extent of my butthurt and posted it on their blog ____ I sent an incoherent flame to them from a friends email account ____ I used a spam program to send them multiple flame emails ____ I got all my online BFFs together and organized a flame war ____ I realized that arguing online is usually pointless and found something else to do with my time   AFTER COMPLETING THIS FORM, FEEL FREE TO KICK OUT THE CHAIR THAT IS CURRENTLY UNDERNEATH YOU WHILE YOU'RE DANGLING FROM THE RAFTERS  true

2009-10-05T21:04:20Z

95947 23 ESPN's New Complaint Form

2009-11-06T21:32:35Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BlondiesCowboys/blog/posts/95947

2008-08-05T21:47:16Z

707361 Kennedy's Fun House *Enter at your own risk*

2008-08-14T17:30:58Z

3233963

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BlondiesCowboys/blog BlondiesCowboys http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BlondiesCowboys 1279217 ok i know we lost ariza and we are right on the edge of the salary cap but seriously who can stop the lakers? the best coach in history, the best basketball player in the world, and an ultimate experienced supporting cast. what else is there to say? honestly artest isnt a downgrade. PPG:16.1 RPG:5.1 APG:3.2 FG pct:42.2 Steals PG:2.1(03-04 Defensive Player of The Year) How are these stats a downgrade? if artest were to join any other team or if he were to stay with the rockets he would be the second best player if not the #1. this pick up is by far the best this offseason. and with artest's experience it more than not improves the lakers chances. i look for the lakers to win at least 65 games this season if not more and a back to back title. It makes sense on paper, because Artest allows the Lakers to play against small lineups with a grouping of Fisher-Bryant-Artest-Odom-Gasol, even though that group isn’t actually “small,” thanks to the length of Gasol and Odom plus Artest’s brute strength. That crew could well counter, for example, a small Boston lineup of Rajon Rondo – Ray Allen – Paul Pierce – Garnett – Rasheed Wallace. On the other hand, Jackson could go big with a defensively intimidating squad of (also newly-signed) Shannon Brown, plus Artest-Bryant-Gasol-Bynum that dwarfs a potential Cleveland lineup even with Shaquille O’Neal’s inclusion (Mo Williams – Delonte West – LeBron James – Anderson Varejao – O’Neal). Obviously, versatility was a key in L.A.’s 2008-09 title run with Trevor Ariza in place of Artest, so there’s no re-inventing of the wheel here … But in part because of his bigger body, Artest does give the Lakers some potentially powerful new looks. So everyone that says the lakers downgraded because of the loss of ariza look at the stats the only difference is age. ariza had his chance to stay on the best team in basketball and his immaturity forced his to join a team that is totally falling apart with mcgrady very questionable and yao....... who knows whats gonna happen to yao. So next season when kobe is holding the Larry O'Brien Trophy and ariza is at home wating on tv he's gonna realize the mistake he made with his selfish acts just for a little more money.GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!2009 NBA Champions! true

2009-07-09T18:37:34Z

88842 22 Lakers 2010!

2009-07-29T10:09:44Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BucksBray7/blog/posts/88842

2009-07-09T18:05:49Z

Just Another Fan Profile Blog 1279217 BucksBray7's Blog

2009-07-09T18:05:49Z

7267850

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BucksBray7/blog BucksBray7 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BucksBray7 1243057 So its Finals time in the NBA, and while everyone endlessly analyzes the matchups and the teams, I find myself asking one question that I ask myself every year around this time. Can anyone out there please explain to me the reasoning for the NBA changing their home court format in the Finals? For those of you casual NBA fans out there, here's how it works. In the first three rounds, there is a 2-2-1-1-1 format. That means that "Team A" plays two games at home, then "Team B" plays two games at home, then "Team A" has a home game, followed by "Team B" at home, and finally "Team A" at home. However, once you get to the finals, the format changes. In the NBA Finals, there is a 2-3-2 format. So in this year’s Finals there will be two games in L.A., followed by three games in Orlando, and the final two games in L.A. While this change seems inconsequential and subtle, I think it makes a huge difference. Why would you change the format when you arrive at the culmination of the entire season? There are multiple things wrong with this scenario. First off, the team with the home court "advantage" has it pulled away from them in this format. Don't get me wrong, I hope the Magic wipe the floor with the Lakers, but this format hurts the team that’s supposed to have the "advantage" and that’s not fair. Let's look at it this way...hypothetically, home court advantage says that you can just win your home games and still win the series without ever being behind. However, if this occurs in the 2-3-2 format, there is a huge problem come game 6. Let's say home court holds up for the first 5 games. That means that even though the Lakers won the games that they were supposed to at home, they are still under a huge amount of pressure when game 6 arrives because they are in a MUST WIN situation. Does that sound like an "advantage" to you?  Now, I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "C'mon man, that would never happen. That is a totally unrealistic scenario. You're just complaining about nothing." (Actually, I don't know if that's what you're thinking, I'm by no means a mind reader) However, if you are thinking that, then please allow me to bring your attention to the 2006 NBA Finals. The Mavericks destroyed the Heat in the first two games in Dallas. Then, the Heat did what they were supposed to do and won their three games at home. However, while winning these games they built momentum and confidence. A series that was completely in the Mavs control suddenly took a 180 degree turn into the Heat's favor without the Mavs losing a game at home. In the end, as you all know, the Heat got the ring and the Mavs began their descent to mediocrity. I have no idea why the NBA annually makes this change during the Finals, but I have to assume that they think that the 2-3-2 format improves the series (especially since they're only willing to do it for their championship round). However, if they think this, then why not make all of the playoffs in the 2-3-2 format? I think that this change is completely unnecessary, and the idea that it still provides home court advantage is ludicrous. They should either change the entire playoffs, or leave it in the same format as the first three rounds.   true

2009-06-04T21:36:23Z

86752 20 NBA Finals Home Court Format

2009-07-27T19:57:36Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ChadJavonOchoCinco/blog/posts/86752

2009-06-04T21:08:01Z

Just Another Fan Profile Blog 1243057 ChadJavonOchoCinco's Blog

2009-06-04T21:08:01Z

5134083

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ChadJavonOchoCinco/blog ChadJavonOchoCinco http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ChadJavonOchoCinco 1103953 Week 2 was a little disappointing for me. Not in terms of my overall record, I managed to go 7-3, but my record against the spread was an abysmal 2-8. I'm not moping around too much though thanks to Matt Barkley’s game winning TD drive against the Buckeyes, and the 49ers impressive come from behind victory against the Cards on Sunday. For the season I currently stand 13-7 overall, and 7-13 against the spread. Let's just be thankful the Navy hasn't let me get out to Vegas much lately. Unlike last week there were a lot of intriguing matchups for Week 3, it was very hard for me to choose between a couple, but here's my narrowed down list of the top 10 games in college football for Week 3. 10. Arizona @ Iowa: The Wildcats are coming off an impressive bowl victory against BYU, and two victories against lackluster opponents. They will get their first test of the season in Iowa City against a Hawkeye team who was #22 in the preseason polls, but fell out after needing 2 blocked field goals in the closing seconds to knock off Northern Iowa, but then followed it up with a 35-3 drubbing of rival Iowa State. This is also a must win for the Big Ten. They are already currently 0-2 against the PAC, including last week's high profile loss to USC, and with Cal scheduled to play Minnesota, if the Hawkeyes lose they are looking at a potential 0-4 record against the PAC. I have a feeling that Arizona rides their recent success to an upset over a potentially overrated Iowa team Prediction: Arizona 30 Iowa 28 9. Tulsa @ #12 Oklahoma: It's time for Landry Jones to prove himself. Sure he looked impressive in last week's 64-0 victory, but let's put it in perspective, they were playing Idaho State. This week they will face a better than average mid-major in Tulsa, in a potential trap game a week before their big showdown with Miami. Their national championship hopes are already on life support, another loss to a mid-major with Texas still on the schedule and they're over. The Golden Hurricanes looked impressive in their 37-13 victory over Tulane with Damaris Johnson gaining 252 all purpose yards. They're going to need a big game from him against the Sooners. Prediction: Oklahoma 41 Tulsa 24 8. Michigan State @ Notre Dame: Notre Dame fell in a close one last week to rival Michigan. Notre Dame fans shouldn't be too discouraged however, Jimmy Clausen is more and more starting to look like a top level college quarterback. There defense does look a little vulnerable however. They face a Michigan State team that has dominated the Irish as of late winning 3 of the last 4 meetings. There is a noticeable lack of talent on the Spartans squad this year, which could pose problems when trying to match up with the Irish offense. Charlie Weis is doing himself no favors either in the court of public opinion saying he didn't blame the officials for a loss, then went on to blame the Big 10 officials for the loss. Prediction: Notre Dame 30 MSU 17 7. #10 Boise State @ Fresno State: Boise State and Fresno square Friday night in the battle for the milk can. The Broncos begin the quest for their 8th WAC title in 9 years. Also on the line is their 4th undefeated regular season in 6 years and a potential BCS appearance. The Broncos are 54-2 in conference play since joining the WAC, but one of those losses was in Fresno 27-7, the worse loss in WAC play for Boise. They face a Fresno State team coming off a heartbreaking 34-31 loss in double OT to Wisconsin at Camp Randall Stadium. The Bulldogs have an impact rusher in Ryan Mathews, but he will have a tough time facing a Boise defense that through 2 games is holding opponents to 34.5 rushing yards a game. Prediction: Boise State 42 Fresno State 3 6. #17 Cincinnati @ Oregon State; The Big East is in desperate need of a team to carry the banner for the conference. The Bearcats may just be that team. One week after going into Piscataway and stomping on Rutgers, they came back and took down South East Missouri State 70-3. They'll travel out west to face an Oregon State team who while undefeated has looked suspect. Jacquizz Rodgers will be the key in this one. If the Bearcats can contain him they will cruise to a victory, but that's easier said than done. Prediction: Cincinnati 34 Oregon State 27 5. Florida State @ #7 BYU: The cougars are a lot of people's dark horse to get to the national title game. That's understandable considering they took down the #3 ranked team in non-conference play. This week they will get another challenge from ACC foe Florida State at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Look for altitude to be a factor in this one. The Seminoles will travel from Tallahassee, FL elevation 180 feet, to Provo, UT elevation 4600 feet, by far the highest they will play all season long. That should start to affect the Seminoles in the fourth quarter. Look for Max Hall to have a big game in front of his home crowd for the first time this season. Prediction: BYU 33 FSU 24 4. Texas Tech @ #2 Texas: Last year Texas Tech spoiled the Longhorns national championship homes on Michael Crabtree's game winning touchdown reception. Mack Brown, Colt McCoy, and the rest of the Longhorns are eager for payback and won't be going easy on the Red Raiders. Texas Tech has looked impressive despite losing their top two playmakers on offense, but the talent and hatred from Texas will prove to much for the Red Raiders. Prediction: Texas 34 Texas Tech 17 3. #14 Georgia Tech @ #20 Miami: The Yellow Jackets got a crucial victory against Clemson last week in the closing seconds, but have another crucial contest this week in ACC play. Paul Johnson's triple option offense will get a challenge from the Hurricanes stout defense, but Miami's offense will be the key in this one. If they can get a lead early in this one they will have a great chance to win. The option offense is not designed to score points quickly. Another key for the Hurricanes will be getting tackles for losses on first down. Prediction: Miami 28 GT 24 2. Tennessee @ #1 Florida: Lane Kiffin was quoted saying "I'm really looking forward to embracing some of the great traditions at the University of Tennessee, for instance the Vol Walk, running through the T, singing 'Rocky Top' all night long after we beat Florida next year". Now it is time to pay for those comments. Urban Meyer insists that he is not worried about Lane Kiffin, and is focused on Tennessee's Defense, but Urban Meyer is one to hold grudges. Last year he called 2 timeouts late in a blowout against Georgia, so the Bulldogs could savor the defeat. This was in retaliation for Georgia's players storming the field after their first TD the previous season. Look for some timeout's to be saved for Lane Kiffin. Prediction: Florida 52 Tennessee 10 1.#19 Nebraska vs #13 Virginia Tech: Is the big red really back? Time to find out. They travel to Blacksburg this weekend to take on Virginia Tech in what is a statement game for the Cornhuskers. Look for Nebraska's Defense in this contest. If it holds up strong it could be an indicator of good things to come in a conference that’s known for their offense more than their defense. Prediction: Nebraska 13 Virginia Tech 10   <input /><input /> true

2009-09-15T19:46:02Z

94346 19 Week 3: 10 games to watch for college football

2009-09-23T01:12:16Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2/blog/posts/94346

2008-11-10T06:37:25Z

1103953 pettyofficerkeller2's Blog

2008-11-10T06:37:25Z

5053625

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2/blog pettyofficerkeller2 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/pettyofficerkeller2 26 4 p.m. ET, Monday-Friday, ESPN2 <object width="440" height="361"><param name="movie" value="http://espn.go.com/broadband/player.swf?mediaId=4233848"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"/><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"/><embed src="http://espn.go.com/broadband/player.swf?mediaId=4233848" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="440" height="361" allowScriptAccess="always"></embed></object> true

2009-06-30T22:21:30Z

88380 16 SportsNation TV -- You're the Star!

2009-07-10T18:48:21Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/CommunityEds/blog/posts/88380

2008-04-18T18:31:26Z

The goings and comings in the ESPN.com community 26 Notes from Bristol

2008-07-25T19:29:02Z

511742

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/CommunityEds/blog CommunityEds http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/CommunityEds 1120648 This season could be a make or break season for some teams and coaches, but could be one of the best we've seen in a while. For the first time in over 34 years, we could see a Heisman winner win the award twice with SEC Player of the year and 07 winner in Tim Tebow and the Big 12 Player of the Year and 08 winner in Sam Bradford. But there are many other dark horses that have great chances to win it such as Cal RB Jahvid Best, Texas QB Colt McCoy, Oklahome State QB Zac Robinson, Oklahoma State RB Kendall Hunter, and Ole Miss QB Jevan Sneed. There are many potenial record breakers this season too. Tim Tebow only needs 36 total touchdowsn to be the career leader in TD's, which he will probably get in week 9. Those 36 touchdowns will also make him the career leader in points. Colt McCoy needs less than 3,000 passing yards this season to put him in the top 10 in career passing yards, Western Michigan quarterback Tim Hiller needs 36 TD's this season to be 3rd on the career passing touchdowns list, Southern Miss running back Damion Fletcher needs less than 1,500 rushing yards thi season to be in the top 5 in career rushing yards, and Central Michigan wide reciver Bryan Anderson needs less than 1,600 reciveing yards this season to be in the top 5 in career receiving yards and only 67 receptions to be the career leader in receptions. Last season's shockings will not be matched this year, but this season will have it's share of upsets and surprises. Many are expecting Florida to repeat as National Champs, there are three teams that I think can give Florida a run for their money: Texas, who has the coaching and leadership at QB, Oklahoma who has, in my opinion, the best NFL ready QB, and Ole Miss who has a very SEC ready coach in Houston Nutt and a very very good leader in Jeaven Sneed. However, I think Florida repeats for many reasons, but mostly because of their experiance. They have been there 2 times in the past 3 years and have won both. Florida just has way to much depth for other teams to handle. They have 8, yes 8, All-Americans, 4 on offense and 4 on deffense. They have the best athlete in Tim Tebow and the best line backer in the nation in Brandon Spikes. Florida also has the best coach in the SEC in Urban Meyer, who has had great succes in Florida's spread-type of offense. I think that if Miamai doesnt have a winning season, this could be the fianl year with Randy Shanon at the helm. They have the offense and certanly has the D to have a winning season, so Shannon's job should be safe. Up north, however, this is a make or break season for Notre Dame and Charlie Weis. If Weis doesnt win this year, he will be gone, but he should make and possibly win a BCS bowl. With many new coaches accepting jobs with other teams, this too could make a very, very interesting season. New Washington coach Steve Sarkisian will see great, early succes with quarter back Jake Locker. I dont think Washington will contend for the Pac-10, but they could see 3-4 or possibly 5 wins this year. With Bill Snyder coming back, look for K-State to have a break out year in the Big 12. Before Bill Snyder came to K-State in the 80's they were the laughing stock of college football literly every year. While he was there for 20 years he completily turned them around and had them contending for the National Championship. New Clemson coach Dabo Sweeny has big shoes to fill. Tommy Tuberville left a great lasting impression there and was one of the best teams in the ACC while he was there. Oregon had one the best and most sucsessful coaches in college football in Mike Belotti. He's gone. After Belotti took the AD job at Oregon, Offenseive cooridinator Chip Kelly has taken over. Chip Kelly has done well and worked wonders with Oregon's offense and will see very early succes and could lead them to a Pac-10 championship his first year. Tennessee struck gold in getting Lane Kiffin to coach them. He's a very young coach with great swagger and smarts (he coached uner Pete Carrol for more than 5 years). However, his cockyness his hurting him more than helping him. He needs to stop worrying about all the violations and just coach. He will see very good and early succes in that tough SEC. ACC Atlantic: 1. Florida State 2. NC State 3. Clemson 4. Wake Forest 5. Maryland 6. Boston College ACC Coastal: 1. Va tech 2. Georgia Tech 3. North Carolina 4. Miamai 5. Virgina 6. Duke Big East: 1. Pitt 2. West Virgina 3. Cincinatti 4. South Florida 5. Rutgers 6. UConn 7. Louisville 8. Syracuse Big Ten: 1. Ohio State 2. Penn State 3. Iowa 4. Michi State 5. Illinois 6. Michigan 7. Minnesota 8. Wisconsin 9. Northwestern 10. Purdue 11. Indiana Big 12 North: 1. Kansas 2. Nebraska 3. Mizzou 4. Colorado 5. Iowa State 6. K-State Big 12 South: 1. Texas 2. Oklahoma 3. Oklahoma State 4. Baylor 5. Texas Tech 6. Texas A and M C-USA East: 1. ECU 2. Southern Miss 3. Memphis 4. Marshall 5. UCF 6. UAB C-USA West: 1. Houston 2. Tulsa 3. UTEP 4. Rice 5. SMU 6. Tulane Pac-10: 1. SC 2. Oregon 3. Cal 4. Oregon State 5. ASU 6. UCLA 7. Stanford 8. Washington 9. Zona 10. WSU SEC East: 1. Florida 2. Gerogia 3. Tennessee 4. South Carolina 5. Kentucky 6. Vanderbilt SEC West: 1. Ole Miss 2. LSU 3. Bama 4. Arkansa 5. Auburn 6. Miss State WAC: 1. Boise 2. Nevada 3. Fresno State 4. La Tech 5. Hawaii 6. San Jose State 7. Utah State 8. New Mexico State 9. Idaho Mountain West: 1. Utah 2. BYU 3. TCU 4. UNLV 5. Air Force 6. Colorado State 7. New Mexico 8. SDSU 9. Wyoming MAC East: 1. Buffalo 2. Bowling Green 3. Temple 4. Ohio 5. Akron 6. Miami (Ohio) 7. Kent State MAC West: 1. WMU 2. CMU 3. Northern Illinois 4. Ball State 5. Toledo 6. Eastern Michigan Sun Belt: 1. Troy 2. FAU 3. Arkansas State 4. Middle Tennessee 5. Louisiana Monroe 6. FIU 7. North Texas 8. Louisana Lafayette 9. WKU Preseason Top 25: 1. Florida 2. Texas 3. USC 4. Oklahoma 5. Virgina Tech 6. Ole Miss 7. Oklahoma State 8. Boise State 9. Alabama 10. Oregon 11. Ohio State  12. Georgia Tech 13. LSU 14. Gerogia 15. Penn State 16. TCU 17. Florida State 18. Oregon State 19. North Caloina 20. BYU 21. Nebraska 22. Iowa 24. Notre Dame 25. Kansas Post Season Top 25: 1. Florida 2. Oklahoma 3. Texas 4. Ole Miss 5. Virnia Tech 6. Oklahoma State 7. Alabama 8. Ohio State 9. Oregon 10. Boise State 11. LSU 12. Gerogia Tech 13. Penn State 14. Gerogia 15. TCU 16. Florida State 17. North Carolina 18. Oreon State 19. Utah 20. Iowa 21. Nebraska 23. Notre Dame 24. Cal 25. BYU First team All-Americans: QB: Tim Tebow, Florida RB: Kendall Hunter, Oklahoma State RB: Johnathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech WR: Arrelious Benn, Illinois WR: Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State TE: Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma OL: Ciron Black, LSU, Brandon Carter, Texas Tech, Rodney Hudson, Florida State, Kristofer O Dowd, USC, and Bryan Bulaga, Iowa K: Kai Forbath, UCLA P: Ross Thevent,Tulane KR: Perirsah Cox, Oklahoma State PR: Brandon James, Florida DL: George Selvie, South Florida, Jerry Hughes TCU, Gerlad McCoy Oklahoma, and Ndamunkong Suh, Nebraska LB: Rolando McLain, Alabama, Brandon Spikes, Florida, and Sergio Kindle, Texas DB's: Joe Haden, Florida, Taylor Mays, USC, Walter Thurmond, Oregon, and Eric Berry, Tennessee Heisman winner: Tim Tebow, Florida Maxwell award: Sam Bradford, Oklahoma Davey O'Brien award: Tim Tebow Fred Bilenticoff award : Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State Doak Walker award: Johnathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech Jon Mackey award: Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma Dave Rimington award: Kristofer O'Dowd Outland award: Ciron Black Butckus award: Brandon Spikes Thorpe award: Taylor Mays Ray Guy award: Ross Thevent Lou Groza: Kai Forbath Freshman of the Year: Bryce Brown RB Tennessee Bowl games: Gator Bowl: Florida State 24 vs West Virgina 31 ChampSports Bowl: NC State 17 vs Illinois 28 Emerald Bowl: Wake Forest 21 vs ASU 24 Meineke Car Care bowl: Clemson 34 vs South Florida 28 Eagle Bank Bowl: Maryland 14 vs Navy 17 Orange Bowl: Va Tech 27 vs Boise State 17 Music City Bowl: Georgia Tech 27 vs South Carolina 24 Chick Fila Peach Bowl: North Carolina 17 vs Georgia 24  Humanatarion Bowl: Miamai 28 vs Fresno State 17 Sugar Bowl: Pitt 31 vs Ole Miss 34 St. Petersburg Bowl: Rutgers 24 vs Southern Miss 18 International Bowl: Cincinatti 27 vs Buffalo 14 Papajohns.com Bowl: UConn 10 vs Kentucky 17 Rose Bowl: Ohio State 28 vs USC 24 Capital One Bowl: Penn State 28 vs LSU 24 Alamo Bowl: Michigan State 17 vs Nebraska 20 Outback Bowl:Iowa 21 vs Alabama 28 Insight Bowl: Michigan 17 vs Mizzou 21 Motor City Bowl: Northwestern 14 vs Western Michigan10 Holliday Bowl: Kansas 24 vs Oregon  34 Texas Bowl: Colorado 21 vs Memphis 14 Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma 34 vs Notre Dame 28 Cotton Bowl: Oklahoma State 28 vs Auburn 20 Sun Bowl: Texas Tech 24 vs Oregon State 18 Inependence Bowl: Baylor 17 vs Arkansas 21 GMAC Bowl: ECU 27 vs Bowling Green 17 New Orleans Bowl: Houston 20 vs Troy 10 Liberty Bowl: Tulsa 14 vs Tennessee 27 Armed Forces Bowl: Rice 17 vs TCU 28 Las Vegas Bowl: Cal 31 vs BYU 28 Poinsetta Bowl: UCLA 17 vs Utah 24 New Mexico Bowl: Nevada 27 vs Temple 10 Hawaii Bowl: Hawaii 14 vs Stanford 20 National Championship: Florida 27 vs Texas 20 2010 NFL Draft Top 11: 1. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma 2. Taylor Mays, USC 3. Ndamunkong Suh, Nebraska 4. Jermaine Greshem, Oklahoma 5. Kendall Hunter, Oklahoma State 6. Colt McCoy, Texas 7. Brandon Spikes, Florida 8. Ciron Black, LSU 9. Johnathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech 10. Brandon Carter, Texas Tech 11. Tim Tebow, Florida Most Intruiging Hiring: Gene Chizick, Auburn. Auburn was on the look for a new coach to replace great coach Tommy Tuberville. So, to replace him they brought a coach with...a losing record? Yes they hired former Iowa State who was 5-19, yes 5-19. There were many other options such as as former Clemson coach Tommy Bowden. Watch this Auburn this year and to see what they can do under coach Chizick. I predict vthey go 3-9 and 5th in the SEC West and 9th in the SEC overall.               true

2009-08-11T14:59:36Z

91220 13 College football 2009-2010 predictions

2009-09-27T15:06:01Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/tjroundup/blog/posts/91220

2008-11-28T13:27:09Z

1120648 tjroundup's Blog

2008-11-28T13:27:09Z

4606170

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/tjroundup/blog tjroundup http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/tjroundup 942845 Wishing for a new video game system? Wanting a new gaming option just in time for summer? You're in luck ... WIN a new gaming system from ESPN RISE! We're giving one lucky winner the change to choose between a <a href="http://www.windsoreats.com/img/blog/nintendo_wii.jpg">Nintendo Wii</a>, <a href="http://www.8bitreview.com/blog/files/russ_playstation3.jpg">PlayStation 3</a> or <a href="http://www.techdigest.tv/xbox_360.jpg">Xbox 360</a>. And of course we'll throw in some new games too! To enter, post a comment below telling us which gaming system you want! The contest is open to high school students in grades nine (9th grade) through twelve (12th grade). The winner will be randomly selected. For more of the rules and eligibility, <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/highschool/rise/news/story?id=4164355">check out the Official Rules and fine print</a>. Entries/comment posts must be received by June 19. So, what'll it be? Nintendo Wii? PlayStation 3? Xbox 360? Tell us in the comment box below! true

2009-05-13T15:41:36Z

85687 13 Win a video gaming system!

2009-06-18T17:55:00Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ESPNRise/blog/posts/85687

2008-08-18T16:07:24Z

942845 ESPNRise's Blog

2008-08-18T16:07:24Z

3468193

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ESPNRise/blog ESPNRise http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ESPNRise 1279217  This is to all of the fans in this world that call their teams their own, because they are. I recently got a message from a guy on my blog saying i was "gay" for  saying "we" when i was talking about the Lakers. Idk about other fans but i know we are just as important to the team as it's players, if not more. I live in the LA area, I go to numerous laker games yearly, I buy Lakers jerseys and caps and many other Lakers things. Without us fans our teams would be nothing, and  this goes to every fan of every team not just the lakers. We are the team, we are part of this organization. So i have every freaking right to refer to the Lakers as "we." We fans give the organization our hard earned money not only to watch the team play one night, but to keep the team playing for years to come. It's our money that signs all of our star players, it's our money that buys the players equipment, and it's our money that keeps great professional organizations all around the United States alive during this recession. So for anyone that says its "gay" to fefer to your team as "we" or "us" tell them to go suck a nut because they dont know anything about sports and they obviously aren't real fans. true

2009-07-24T03:57:45Z

89820 12 This is OUR team!

2009-08-13T19:44:26Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BucksBray7/blog/posts/89820

2009-07-09T18:05:49Z

Just Another Fan Profile Blog 1279217 BucksBray7's Blog

2009-07-09T18:05:49Z

7267850

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BucksBray7/blog BucksBray7 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/BucksBray7 5508 BYU's win is not only huge overall, but will help the Mountain West continue to build its case against the BCS. Yes Sam Bradford went down, but honestly the Sooners were struggling even when Bradford was in the game. Not only that when your Oklahoma perception is that even the backups could start on a Mountain West team is it not? College Football needs a playoff, and BYU's upset, along with Boise State beating the Sooners in the Fiesta Bowl two years ago, and Utah's beat down of Alabama in the Sugar Bowl. Non-BCS teams are now beating the best of the best, as well as the other teams in the BCS conferences. Boise State knocked off Oregon, yeah Oregon may be a middle of the pack team in the Pac-10, but it's still a BCS conference. FCS teams are beating ACC teams, granted, once again it's lower class ACC schools, but they're still BCS schools. The top BCS schools are being caught by the non-BCS teams, and is an exact reason the 12 team playoff format that I came up with last year needs to be put in place. Think about it more. The bottom line is the NCAA is afraid they'll lose their big bucks, when in fact they could actually make more money off of a playoff, as well as in the regular season if a playoff were implemented. First off I said that a 12 team playoff would include all 11 conference champions plus an at large bid. Think about this, how many people are showing up to the Troy versus Middle Tennessee State to battle it out for the Sun Belt title and a trip to the New Orleans Bowl now? Not very many, at least not as many as there would be if that game meant one of those two teams would make into the playoffs. I can almost guarantee you that would be a sell-out. Not only that how many teams would host potential conference champions at home, even when their team didn't have a shot a making to the playoffs, but could play spoiler? You would get more fans and attention at that game. Not to mention the fact that media outlets would be all over these games, in turn creating more TV and radio revenue for the NCAA, because would you watch a game between two middle of the road Big 10, or SEC teams play, or would you like to see BYU and Utah throw down for the Mountain West and a shot at the College Playoffs? Now you can still keep the bowls for the other teams. A 2nd place Big 10 team, and a 2nd place Pac-10 team would still make for a damn good Rose Bowl. Not to mention the crowds of those two teams would still show up at the Rose Bowl to support their team, so it would be a win-win situation. Bottom line is though, BYU's win over Oklahoma makes the argument that much better for those like Sen. Hatch, and everyone else who dispises the BCS in favor of a playoff. true

2009-09-06T04:11:22Z

93356 11 BYU's win helps playoff argument

2009-09-14T15:04:56Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ADEVARTS/blog/posts/93356

2008-03-24T16:44:58Z

5508 7330's Blog

2008-03-24T16:44:58Z

132082

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ADEVARTS/blog ADEVARTS http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ADEVARTS 10228 Week four looks to be the best of the season so far. Here are my picks and predictions. Game of the Week: (9) Miami vs (11) Virginia Tech: Its been a few years since the Hokies and Canes were considered some of the best teams in the country. Now, they're back in a battle between 9 and 11, and one sure to make some noise. Why Miami will win: Jacory Harris. He has fueled Miami to the season that they have had so far, and their #9 ranking. He is one of the best dual-threats in the nation, and I think he is better than Tyrod Taylor. Miami's defense has yet to prove themselves, but look for them to come out fired up and ready to dominate up front. But playing in Lane Stadium changes everything. Why Virginia Tech will win: Tyrod Taylor showed how well he can perform under pressure with his game-winning drive against Nebraska last week. And he will be ready to do it again in front of what will be an energetic Lane Stadium. VT will find a way to win by dominating on the ground and going right through the heart of the Miami defense. PREDICTION: Though VT is playing at Lane Stadium, there offense was shaky against Nebraska's Big 12 defense. Playing against an unproven defense like Miami's will be an interesting matchup. Look for Miami's defense to have another shaky game, but force a lot of turnovers while keeping VT below 30. FINAL: Miami- 38  Virginia Tech- 26 Upset Alert (5) Mississippi vs South Carolina: Mississippi is one of the biggest surprises being rank at number five. Look for Steve Spurrier to do what his teams do best, and pull of an upset. (15) TCU vs Clemson: TCU is another one of those mid-major teams that will play great throughout the entire year, but never have a real statement game to make themselves a worthy team in the eyes of coaches and fans. This is that game for them, however, it won't turn out in their favor. Teams on the Rise Michigan: Another win, and they stay on the list of teams that will make noise this year UCLA: 3-0, yet they move down in the polls. They have a tough stretch of games ahead of them with Oregon and Cal back-to-back. Houston: Still look impressive, but we can really tell after this Saturday's game vs Texas Tech. Pretenders: This is the section for teams that really shouldn't be where they are in the rankings. (5) Mississippi. They have played no real great teams, and seem a little overhyped (9) Miami: I think they should be moved up. The only team that has 2 very good wins on their resume. (24) Washington: They were ranked in the 80s, and are now in the Top 25 despite one loss? true

2009-09-24T20:58:45Z

95200 8 College Football Analysis: Week 4

2009-09-27T00:00:47Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/uclabruin094/blog/posts/95200

2008-04-10T03:51:19Z

10228 uclabruin094's Blog

2008-04-10T03:51:19Z

1339229

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/uclabruin094/blog uclabruin094 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/uclabruin094 10228 This Saturday (couple of games Thursday) kicks off week 3 of the college football season. Here are my picks and predictions   GAME OF THE WEEK: Virginia Tech (13) vs Nebraska (19) Why VT will win: VT has one of the nation's best dual-threat quarterbacks in Tyrod Taylor, and he should play a big part in Virginia Tech's offense this weekend. Against Nebraska's so far unproven defense, will put up quite a fight. Also, Nebraska has started 2-0, but with those wins coming against Florida Atlantic and Arkansas State, you have to belive that Nebraska may not be completely in their expected Top 25 form. Why Nebraska will win: Nebraska has offense. Period. They're 10th in the nation in points scored, and 18th in passing yards respectively. Virginia Tech hasn't seen an offense that it incredible with the pass all year, and one of Nebraska's keys, is that they can balance it out with the rushing game too. RESULT: VT is not happy with the way they have started, and have one of the best dual-threat QBs in the nation, whom Nebraska will have to create a scheme directed entirely towards him. Not to mention the Huskers have the difficult task of playing VT in Lane Stadium, arguably one of the best home-field advantages in all of college football. FINAL SCORE: VT- 31  Nebraska- 21   UPSET ALERT: (7) BYU vs Florida State: Florida State lost a heart-breaker to Miami in week one, and let their guard down in week 2, almost being defeated by Jacksonville State. Look for Bobby Bowden to fire up his squad and defeat one of the more overrated teams this year. (17) Cincinatti vs Oregon State: The Bearcats have yet to play a good defense this year, and will be in for a rude awakening by the Beaver defense. Also, the playmaking ability of the Rodgers brothers, James and Jaquizz, doesn't hurt the Beavers.   TEAMS ON THE RISE Michigan: The rise of true freshman QB Tate Forcier has this team moving in the right direction for the first time since Rich Rodriguez has taken over the job. Like they say, practice makes perfect. UCLA: Neuheisel and Norm Chow have this team moving in the right direction. But with the injury of QB Kevin Prince, the emergence of backup QB Richard Brehaut will be essential. Not to mention S Rahim Moore leads the nation in interceptions (5), and would of had 6 if an offsides wasn't called in the final minutes of the Tennessee game. Houston: With a key win over Oklahoma State, and the rise of QB Case Keenum, look for this team to make headlines as their season progresses.     true

2009-09-16T18:24:24Z

94434 8 College Football Analysis: Week 3

2009-09-20T18:46:15Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/uclabruin094/blog/posts/94434

2008-04-10T03:51:19Z

10228 uclabruin094's Blog

2008-04-10T03:51:19Z

1339229

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/uclabruin094/blog uclabruin094 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/uclabruin094 1177442 Last year, the NFL season had so many surprises and thrilling moments. With teams like the Dolphins and Falcons coming out of the basement of their respective divisions and the Arizona Cardinals making a run all the way to the Super Bowl and were 2 minutes and a Ben Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes miracle to winning the Vince Lombardi Trophy. I am going to do my best to predict this year's season and playoffs even though I probably won't even come close to predicting what occurs. AFC East Defending Champions: Miami Dolphins Predictions: 1. New England Patriots 13-3: Brady is back, thats all that needs to be said 2. New York Jets 9-7: The Jets are starting a rookie QB, but have a great running game and a solid defense with former Ravens D coordinator at HC 3. Buffalo Bills 8-8: T.O. is in town, but the team still has questions surrounding it's defense and QB 4. Miami Dolphins 6-10: Tougher schedule this season which doesn't play out well for last season's darlings of the NFL   AFC North Defending Champs: Steelers Predictions: 1. Pittsburgh Steelers 13-3: Defending Super Bowl Champs, enough said 2. Baltimore Ravens 10-6: Lost Bart Scott and Rex Ryan to Jets but this defense will be just fine with Ray Lewis guiding them 3. Cincinnati Bengals 7-9: Ochocinco seems to think its going to be better for the Bengals, but we will see 4. Cleveland Browns 5-11: This team has talent but they need either Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn to step it up for this team to have success   AFC South Defending Champs: Tennessee Titans Predictions: 1. Indianapolis Colts 11-5: As long as Manning is still running the show, the Colts are a playoff team 2. Houston Texans 10-6: Team is young and talented, I see them making a cindarella-like run to the playoffs 3. Tennessee Titans 8-8: Defense takes a huge hit with the loss of Haynesworth 4. Jacksonsville Jaguars 7-9: This team has a premier running back in MJD but doesn't have much else   AFC West Defending Champs: San Diego Chargers Predictions: 1. San Diego Chargers 12-4: Great offense and defense will get better with the return of Shawne Merriman 2. Kansas City Chiefs 7-9: With guys like Larry Johnson and Dwayne Bowe this has a stable offense but won't be able to stop anybody from scoring 3. Oakland Raiders 6-10: The Raiders need JaMarcus Russell to step up dearly for them to have a chance to contend 4. Denver Broncos 4-12: Denver had a tulmoltuous off-season with their star players wanting out of town   AFC Playoffs: San Diego def. Houston Baltimore def. Indianapolis   Pittsburgh def. Baltimore San Diego def. New England   Pittsburgh def. San Diego   AFC Champs: Pittsburgh   NFC East: Defending Champs: New York Giants Predictions: 1. Philadelphia Eagles 12-4: This team is stacked on the offensive end and the acquistion of Mike Vick will only make the team better 2. New York Giants 11-5: Big Blue lost Plax to a New York prison but the team has a dominant runnning game and defense with a Super Bowl winning QB 3. Washington Redskins 9-7: Haynesworth will make this defense a force 4. Dallas Cowboys 9-7: The Cowboys are a soap opera that are just in a tough division to win in   NFC North Defending Champs: Minnesota Vikings Predictions: 1. Green Bay Packers 11-5: Aaron Rodgers is an elite QB on a great offense in this league and I look for the defense to come back to the defense of 2007 2. Chicago Bears 10-6: Da Bears finally got a half decent QB in town 3. Minnesota Vikings 9-7: Favre's body will collapse during the last half of the season and keep the talented Vikings out of the playoffs 4. Detroit Lions 3-13: Calvin Johnson is a stud but I'm not sure who will get him the ball   NFC South Defending Champs: Carolina Panthers Predictions: 1. Carolina Panthers 12-4: On the backs of studs DeAngelo Williams and Steve Smith, the Panthers will win a second consecutive division title 2. Atlanta Falcons 11-5: This offense is even more explosive with the acquistion of Tony Gonzalez 3. New Orleans Saints 8-8: The Saints are a mediocre team with a great quaterback 4. Tampa Buccaneers 6-10: The Bucs just aren't as fierce on defense as they were earlier this decade   NFC West: Defending Champs: Arizona Cardinals Predictions: 1. Arizona Cardinals 11-5: Some people say last year was a fluke, but I am not one those people 2. Seattle Seahawks 8-8: If Hasselbeck stays healthy this team can contend 3. San Francisco 49ers 8-8: If only this team had a QB 4. St. Louis Rams 2-14: I don't see any reason why they will better, but SJax is a beast at running back   NFC Playoffs: Green Bay def. Atlanta New York def. Arizona   Carolina def. New York Philadelphia def. Green Bay   Philadelphia def. Carolina   Super Bowl 44: Philadephia def. Pittsburgh 24-21 SB MVP: Brian Westbrook (It was really hard for me to pick against Pitt since I am Steeler fan, its really hard to repeat so I figured I better pick somebody else)   Awards: MVP: Larry Fitzgerald Coach of the Year: Gary Kubiak, Texans Offensive Player of the year: Adrian Peterson Defensive Player of the Year: Ed Reed Comeback player of the year: Michael Vick       true

2009-09-07T03:09:15Z

93461 8 NFL Preview

2009-09-13T18:26:37Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/manny24435/blog/posts/93461

2009-02-11T18:34:37Z

I post a new blog about once per week so stop by and let me know what you think. 1177442 manny24435's Blog

2009-06-08T20:18:57Z

773882

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/manny24435/blog manny24435 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/manny24435 262431 With the recent announcement of true freshmen Matt Barkley as starting QB for the Trojans, critics are piling on head coach Pete Carroll. Here’s what I have to say about that; when I heard the news I first thought hmm, but it took me about 10 seconds to get over it. I mean, what has he done to not get the benefit of the doubt? Has the 2 National Championships suddenly made him dumb? Or is it the 3 Heisman Trophy winners he’s coached? Every move that Carroll has made since going to USC has worked out for him and the Trojans.  Carroll has started a freshman at every position except QB while at USC, this is one of the biggest reasons recruits pick USC … its called competition! What do the critics see in Aaron Corp that they think he should be the starter? Is it because he is a sophmore? It can't be because he has more experience because he has not started a game either. Lets give Carroll a chance and see how it plays out, I belive he has earned that. In Carroll we trust and win forever is a must. true

2009-08-31T02:11:33Z

92888 8 In Carroll we Trust!

2009-09-04T22:36:18Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ISLASNP/blog/posts/92888

2008-05-11T02:06:47Z

262431 ISLASNP's Blog

2008-05-11T02:06:47Z

1725199

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ISLASNP/blog ISLASNP http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ISLASNP 1271002 You know, every single day I see posts about how the SportsNation show is terrible. People bashing it for being the worst show ever. Saying Colin has a face for radio (OK, I made that one up myself). It's a whole lot of self-deprecating language. Why self-deprecating? Well, for one simple reason... WE ARE ALL SportsNation! This show can only be as good as we make it. Create a screen test, make a fake athlete phone call, write a blog, vote, post comments. It's all right there. And for some to decide that it is awful, well, you are part of the reason you don't like it. I really enjoy SportsNation (well, except the time slots) because it provides me with a cross-section of the fan culture from all over the world. It lets me see other opinions about Michael Vick or the Steroids era. It lets me have a voice to say what I do or do not want to see. It gives the fans a place to come together as fans of Sport, then divide as fans of different teams and sports. Hating this show is exactly like hating your self-portrait. The only person that can do something about it is you. I mean, have you seen the web site? You can do all sorts of thing with your profile. Start a weekly, daily, HOURLY blog. Tweet. Express yourself as the fan of the sport in the way you see yourself. And, yeah, make the case why everyone else should feel the same way! I challenge everyone out there who hates SportsNation (4 et and midnight et) to do the following things: 1 - Create a screen test telling us how the show can be better. 2 - Make an athlete fake call and have them tell SN how it could be better. 3 - Create a blog post of all the things that could make the SN better. 4 - Follow the web site and the fan feed on your profile page for one week. If every one of you that doesn't like SN does these things, they cannot be ignored. Me? I actually like the show and the forums a lot. They give me the chance to express my love/hate relationship with Sport to a whole lot of people, and to find out if others feel that way, too. I can come on a blast an athlete or and organization. I can tell the rest of the Nation how much I hate the current trickling of anonymous PED test failures. I can comment on a story just to say how much I agree or disagree with it. Or I can add content to the site and show by creating a blog and trying to write about something I find interesting, sad, outrageous, fantastic a couple times a week or so. And whether anyone reads it or not I can't say. But I can say that I am contributing to the answer instead of those that would simply state the problem while providing no practical solutions. Complete the 4 challenges I listed and the show is bound to get better for you. If you don't, it's because you didn't want the show to succeed in the first place. Which is sad, because you'd be giving up the one thing you have always wanted for as long as you have been a fan... The Chance to be heard. The chance to make a difference in the sports you love. The chance to share your opinion with the world. And yes, the chance to argue why you are right and they are wrong. Really, you will just be giving up on the one chance you have had to make a difference in sport. And that's a shame. The bottom line is that this is the only sports show that is giving us the chance to write it. So what are you waiting for? I'm taking my chance seriously and enjoying myself. Why aren't you? Don't just be a critic. Just throwing the negative out there, being the bad-vibe guy. Be a part of the solution. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and write and episode. We DARE you... true

2009-08-11T13:25:01Z

91217 7 SportsNation is People. IT'S PEEEOPLE!!!!!!

2009-08-17T02:18:14Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/thehunter000/blog/posts/91217

2009-06-24T20:26:15Z

A blog about sports and their relation to the rest of our lives. Touches on a little of everything. 1271002 Sport vs Life

2009-08-07T14:29:07Z

411359

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/thehunter000/blog thehunter000 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/thehunter000 1095032 Hi guys, and mostly guys...I've recently had some problems with men (with the maturity level of a schoolboy) thinking they can boss me around like I'm their slave just because I'm a girl. They've cursed at me and called me rude names, which is fine with me, because I'm not like most girls that go and cry when that happens. But, to their surprise I also fight back and turn the heat up another notch. I morph into a very angered and frustrated young woman that likes to defend herself against insults forked out by others. I'm not a girly girl that cries in the corner once insulted, as a few guys out there know. I'm not too quick to forgive at times, especially if I feel as though you've burned me just for your enjoyment. I've just recently had a man who, no longer than 2 weeks ago, decided to attack me and belittle me, come back and apologize. I'm bound to forgive him soon, but he was not a major instigator in the argument that I was in roughly 2 weeks ago on the threads. Most people have seen it, or maybe even heard about it, there was even a group that was created, that was inspired by me and that day on the threads. But, anywho, i just wanted to write this blog to let EVERYONE out there know that I'm a force to be reckoned with if you try to mess with me and get under my skin...cause most of the time I just toy around with you to make you regret and feel remorse for what you had said. As most people know aswell, I'm one of the nicest girls you will ever meet, with the most respectful attitude, if you don't make me mad. So, for all of you people out there who like to insult and antagonize others to have fun, just be warned...my friends and I are not people you would like to mess with... :) true

2009-08-07T01:28:04Z

90952 7 Just so you know...

2009-09-07T21:13:10Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/hanksgal30/blog/posts/90952

2008-10-31T18:24:21Z

1095032 hanksgal30's Blog

2008-10-31T18:24:21Z

4963212

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/hanksgal30/blog hanksgal30 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/hanksgal30 737 i would have to say no.heres why.i liken the steroids problem to the war on drugs the united  states is currently battling.while the government has unlimited resources to fight the problem.the drug dealers have just as much money to find new ways to smuggle it into the country.while MLB has unlimited monies also, the players they are dealing with are all wealthy people some of whom have unlimited resources themselves. trying to find a way to hide the illegal drugs they are currently using to enhance the way they play.so since i don't know how MLB tests the players or how often they test them.the only way i would feel they have the problem licked is to inform the public on how the tests are performed.how often.then i feel they would have a good handle on it.also print the players names who fail the tests in national newspapers.suspend first time offenders 1 calender year for first offense.no pay ( thats the only way to get these guys attention) second time is a lifetime ban from baseball.then they would get the message. true

2009-08-02T21:49:38Z

90559 7 does MLB have the steroids problem under control?

2009-08-07T21:21:01Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/swimmer1957/blog/posts/90559

2008-04-18T18:31:30Z

737 swimmer1957s Blog

2008-04-18T18:31:30Z

128907

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/swimmer1957/blog swimmer1957 http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/swimmer1957 1097852 In these few paragraphs I will sell you on the wonderful game of horse racing. If you don't like to gamble, great. Come out and watch incredible athletes (human and equine) perform in poetic fashion. If you do like to risk your money (Wall Street never even bothers staging great races. You either win or lose based on mob mentality) then consider horse racing as something better than watching a lady in a white dealer's blouse hand you a 20 in blackjack then proceed to draw five cards to hit 21 and beat you. In horse racing YOU create your own play. You study the Daily Racing Form or you pick colors, names, jockeys. But either way, you make the choice. It's not dealt to you by a lady in a white dealer's blouse. Yes, the action is slower than casino gaming. It's upwards of 40 minutes between races on the Triple Crown days. But that's your time. Your time to study all the angles, to come up with YOUR decision about how you're going to invest. And the payoff is usually far greater than even 1.5-1 for the occasional blackjack handed you at random from the lady in the white blouse. There's no poetry there. But you might find it at a track when a beautiful animal sweeps wide around the field or cuts between horses to emerge in the final yards. Separately, our episode is about horse poop. But don't let that throw you. <object width="440" height="361"><param name="movie" value="http://espn.go.com/broadband/player.swf?mediaId=4246152"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"/><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"/><embed src="http://espn.go.com/broadband/player.swf?mediaId=4246152" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="440" height="361" allowScriptAccess="always"></embed></object>   true

2009-07-07T14:50:19Z

88691 7 Sweet Smell of Success

2009-07-11T00:35:11Z

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ESPN_KennyMayne/blog/posts/88691

2008-11-03T14:27:48Z

1097852 ESPN_KennyMayne's Blog

2008-11-03T14:27:48Z

5009339

http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ESPN_KennyMayne/blog ESPN_KennyMayne http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/ESPN_KennyMayne