Mark Ingram Hits Homerun In Saints' Debut

In what he can only hope will be a foreshadowing of a long, successful, career in New Orleans, former Alabama running back, Mark Ingram belted a home run in a charity softball event hosted by fellow Saint, Heath Evans. Ingram tweeted the following after the big hit:

The Charlie Sheen "winning" reference aside, it seems like the affable back is off to a good start with his new team.

As for the other former Heisman winner the Saints once loved so dearly—Reggie Bush—he struck out in his at-bat.

Coincidence?

VIDEO FLASHBACK: Georgia Beats Auburn, Wins Third Consecutive SEC Title

November 13, 1982: the Georgia Bulldogs were the No. 1 team in the nation with one of the nations best players on their roster, Herschel Walker, poised to take home the Heisman Trophy.

Georgia's task that day was understood—beat Auburn and wrap up a third straight SEC Championship—but Auburn made the Bulldogs work harder than they had all season in securing the victory. 

The Tigers fought the dogs tooth and nail for four quarters, and led for a time before surrendering the lead late in the fourth. Even so, with less than a minute to go in the game, the Tigers still had the opportunity to win the game.

Georgia led 19-14 when Auburn quarterback , Randy Campbell, stepped up to the line of scrimmage—hoping to make something big happen on 4th-and-17. Once the ball was snapped, Campbell came under immense pressure from Georgia's front seven and, in response, heaved the ball toward the blue jerseys in the endzone—he didn't hit any of them. Ronnie Harris and Jeff Sanchez, two of Georgia's defensive backs, knocked the ball to the ground.

Game over.

(h/t apgarbin)




Herschel was the difference in this one.

(h/t apgarbin)




Interesting note: If you listen closely, Buck Belue—former teammate of Walker and QB for the 1980 Championship team—is one of the color commentators for the game. Belue essentially walked from the football field to the press box after his career at Georgia and he's been in broadcasting ever since.

Mark Ingram: "I'm A Complete, All-Around, Back"

Mark Ingram is a projected first-round pick—some are saying he could go as high as 15th to the Miami Dolphins—however, in this year's draft, anything is possible.

Ingram was the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner who helped lead the Alabama Crimson Tide to BCS Glory that same season. His standout performance against the Florida Gators in the 2009 SEC Championship showcased just how dominant a player he can be when he's healthy and running at his best. He would be a nice fit for the Dolphins at 15—assuming they select him—since both Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams could be gone via free agency.

Either way, if Ingram can stay healthy, he would be a nice addition to any team looking for a versatile back who can play every down.

(h/t sanfrancisco49ers)

Related articles

• 2011 NFL Draft: Do the Miami Dolphins Need Mark Ingram? (football.rawsignal.com)
• Alabama's Mark Ingram runs in the 4.5s at Combine (profootballtalk.nbcsports.com)

Careful, Cam, Someone Might Think You've Got A Big Head

Cam Newton may need to temper that god-like complex he's developed since leading the Auburn Tigers to a national championship, winning the Heisman, and securing a million dollar endorsement deal with Under-Armour. If there's one thing people don't like, it's an arrogant SOB and, despite his intention, Newton came off as such when making the following statement to Sports Illustrated's Peter King—as revealed via King's Twitter account last night,

an "icon", eh? Alrighty then. However, if that wasn't enough, he had this to say about his one-year of college domination, "I don't want to sound arrogant but I did something in one year people couldn't do in their whole collegiate careers."

Yeah, okay. Well, perhaps the one thing you didn't do in that one year is learn a little bit about humility. And, for the record, you didn't win that national championship all by yourself—Nick Fairley, Michael Dyer, and a few other guys on that team made a contribution as well.

Wow, a No. 1 pick you definitely will not be—hope you're ready to sit in the green room for a few slots past that point.

Jeez, some people. I don't mind confidence in one's ability, but this is borderline narcissism in my humble opinion and Newton would do well to keep his egoist ways in the parking lot when he starts his rounds of interviews at the combine this weekend if he expects his stock to rise even the slightest bit.

Imagine What Herschel Walker Could Have Done If...

Imagine what Herschel Walker might have done if he had been fully aware during his 1982 season at Georgia. Check this excerpt taken from an article written by Sam Friedman of newsminer.com,

Herschel Walker has said he doesn’t remember winning college football’s highest individual honor because of mental illness.

Walker, who went on to play in the NFL and compete in the Olympic in two-man bobsled, suffers from Dissociative Identity Disorder — formerly known as multiple personality disorder. As a result, he has said he does not remember the entire 1982 football season when he won the Heisman Trophy for the University of Georgia Bulldogs.

Read more: Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Heisman Trophy winner to speak with soldiers on Fort Wainwright

1982 was Walkers last season with the Georgia Bulldogs, and he tallied 1,752 yards and 6 touchdowns that year—he won the Heisman that season and then made the jump to the USFL—and he essentially admits to doing so on auto-pilot.

Talk about impressive.

(h/t GADawgyDawg)

Cam Newton and Under-Armour Make A Deal

Under-Armour must have a lot of faith in what Cam Newton can do for them, and their brand, after offering the Heisman winner $1 million to endorse their athletic training products—beating out Nike for his services.

While some are predicting that Newton could go be a Top 5 pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, it is much more likely that his name in the public arena already dwarfs whatever his actual draft position turns out to be.

As for Nike, they tried to get in on the Newton sweepstakes, but they obviously felt comfortable that they had enough in their coiffures to remain atop the sports apparel, and shoe mountain, if he didn't jump on board. Under-Armour, however, needed a name to push their brand forward and there isn't a hotter name out there right now than Cam Newton currently. The high degree of public interest in him will only trend higher between now and the NFL Draft (April 28-30) and that can only help Under-Armour.

Related articles

• Under Armour Looks for the Cam Newton Effect (UA, NKE) (247wallst.com)
• Cam Newton signs largest endorsement deal for rookie ever (thegrio.com)

CFB Rumors: Gus Malzahn Still Mulling Over Vanderbilt Job—Seriously?

Announcer: Hey Gus, your team just won the SEC Championship, your quarterback is a Heisman Trophy Winner, your team is 13-0, and on their way to Arizona to play in the National Championship Game...what are you going to do now. 

Gus: I'm going to Tennessee?

Announcer: Huh?...What did you say?

Gus: I'm going to become the next head coach at Vanderbilt!

*record scratches*

Okay, enough with the jokes. Seriously, folks, if Gus Malzahn's best offer is a head coaching job at Vanderbilt, then he should hold out for something better.

This is in no way meant to offend the fine alumni of Vanderbilt University, but, your football team is awful. They've been awful for a long time and, due to the academic restraints placed on them via entry requirements, that isn't likely to change anytime soon.

That said, why on earth would Gus Malzahn take his offense, and his recruiting wares to a program that has become a perennial doormat in the SEC (13-67 over the last 10 years)? Does he feel that his stock is as high as it can possibly get at the moment?

After all, Auburn averaged better than 40 points per game this season using Malzahn's scheme—with the right personnel. However, he's not likely to get the same result at Vanderbilt as he will be competing with Tennessee for the state's best players and could find it difficult to pitch a perennial loser to a guy who wants to build an NFL resume.

On the other hand, if he wants a challenge, then Vanderbilt would definitely be the place to go. Since joining the SEC in 1933, the Commodores are 102-351-15—not including their dismal 2010 record. Have at it, Gus. If Dan Mullen can do it, why can't you?

Quite honestly, though, he's better off staying where he is and seeing how things shake out after 2011. More job openings, with a much higher profile, are likely to become available at that time and, if Auburn manages to stay relevant without Cam Newton (many feel the Heisman winner will bolt for the NFL this season), then he will have proven that he's not a one-trick pony.

That alone would pay dividends.

Hold out for something better, Gus. Vandy definitely isn't Disneyland. 

Related articles

• Gus Malzahn Leaves Auburn to Coach Vanderbilt (thebiglead.com)

NCAA Clears Cam Newton, But Punishes Father—What The Hell?

Here's the gist of the NCAA's conversation with Cam Newton on Tuesday:

NCAA Representative: Your daddy, Cecil, asked for money. 

Cam Newton: I don't know anything about that, sir. 

NCAA Rep: Alrighty then, now that we've cleared that up—good luck on Saturday.

Okay, maybe it didn't happen quite like that, but you have to wonder what the hell the NCAA was thinking when they decided Cam Newton was free of any guilt. Honestly, not to say that any of us were flies on the wall, but Newton's decision to attend Auburn was made by his father—that's been documented.

That said, how likely is it that Cam knew nothing about what his daddy was doing with Mississippi State? Does the NCAA really expect a rational individual to believe that Cecil Newton was pimping his son to the highest bidder, yet his son didn't realize he was being pimped?

If they do, then that's naivete to the fullest extent.

In addition, what kind of horrific precedence does this decision leave for the rest of college football's "amateur" athletes. Should they all just start using the Shaggy defense whenever they're approached about a potential scandal—just say, "it wasn't me":



Seriously, if Auburn saw fit to deem him ineligible on Monday, then there was plenty enough there to keep him that way for more than just 48-hours. This same NCAA took three weeks to investigate A.J. Green's jersey incident, yet they need less than three days to deem Cam Newton fit to play—even with knowledge that his father was soliciting money on his behalf.

That's ridiculous.

If Cam Newton was unaware of what his daddy was doing, fine, then in all honesty, he shouldn't be penalized. However, that's not how the NCAA claims to work. Ignorance of wrong-doing doesn't exempt you from punishment—or so they say. 

In response to the NCAA's decision, SEC Commissioner, Mike Slive had this to say, "The conduct of Cam Newton’s father and the involved individual is unacceptable and has no place in the SEC or in intercollegiate athletics...the actions taken by Auburn University and Mississippi State University make it clear this behavior will not be tolerated in the SEC."

(scratches head)...How exactly does it do that, Mike? All this proves is that if you're doing well and making the NCAA, and the SEC a ton of money, we're willing to overlook your transgressions. If Auburn were 0-11, and not in the BCS picture, would the outcome have been as favorable?

Lets be honest here, this is as much about the SEC maintaining its foothold as it is about doing things the right way. The NCAA, the SEC, nor the Heisman Trophy committee give a rats patoot about Cam Newton or his daddy. They just don't want another Reggie Bush situation on their hands this soon—they're protecting themselves from the negative backlash such a decision could have caused.

Nothing more.

Shame on them all for being the biggest pimps in college football.

One thing is certain, if Auburn goes on to win this weekend and compete for a national title, there will be changes to the NCAA's rules prior to the 2011 season. The loopholes their mind-boggling act leaves in its wake are too obvious to be overlooked, and they cannot allow them to remain if they expect any integrity to be maintained in this sport.

That is, of course, assuming there ever was any.

Related articles

• NCAA clears Auburn star Cam Newton to play (cnn.com)

ESPN's Bob Griese: "I Would Not Vote For Cam Newton"

Bob Griese was asked—today during ESPN's broadcast of the Northwestern/Iowa game— if he would feel comfortable giving Cam Newton his Heisman vote—given the circumstances. He had this to say:

"Yeah, you know, as a voter, I'm a little bit concerned with what I'm hearing, especially on top of all this with the Reggie Bush situation and all that. My feeling right now is, there's just too much going on, and then, especially with the Auburn people coming out and saying, well we have "no comment"—where they have been commenting before. I would not vote right now and, if I had to vote, I would not vote for Cam Newton."

The controversy with the Auburn star took an interesting turn last night when, yet, another unnamed "source" came forth and confirmed that Cecil Newton did indeed solicit his son to Mississippi State in exchange for signing a letter of intent.

The story has not been confirmed or denied by any of the involved parties but, according to a story published by Mark Winne (an admitted Auburn alum) of WSB-TV, Cecil Newton admitted that he asked Mississippi State for money—without his son's or his wife's knowledge. Furthermore, Newton, allegedly, claimed that his son is clean of any wrongdoing.

All of this has led to doubts about Newton's eligibility to play in today's game.

Auburn has issued a firm "no comment" about the matter and has said nothing since the report on yesterday.

Beware Auburn Fans! The Cam Newton Smear Campaign Is In Full Effect

Boy, that Cam Newton sure has a lot of "haters" all of a sudden.

If it's not FoxSports.com's, Thayer Evans, urging voters to leave Newton off their Heisman ballots, then it's the Orlando Sentinel grabbing onto whatever negative stories they can find to discredit Newton's season.

There's so much mud-slinging going going on with this kid right now, you'd think he was running for a political office.

To be fair to the vitriol-spewing media, we have to admit that some trepidation in voting for Newton will be present. Based on the pay-for-play allegations and the newest dagger that accuses Newton of academic cheating while he was at Florida (although given the fact that Thayer Evans wrote the article, you have to wonder how much truth there is to the account), some voters are bound to be getting a little gun-shy.

That said, it doesn't seem fair to penalize the kid for unproven actions—we have seen proof of nothing, yet, so why risk your credibility grasping at the whispers?


If Newton ends up being blameworthy of either, or both, of the allegations then, by all means, re-evaluate his worthiness for receiving any post-season accolades.


Until then, let the NCAA do their job, let Newton continue his season, and refrain from damaging the reputation of a, to this point, innocent young man.

Cam Newton: Paid or Not...It Was All About What Daddy Wanted

ESPN.com has reported that Auburn quarterback, Cam Newton, was offered to Mississippi State for the sum of $180,000. That was the discounted price that Kenneth Rogers (a supposed associate acting on behalf of Newton's camp) was willing to accept in exchange for Newton's signature on a letter of intent.

Newton, it's no secret, was going to Mississippi State. He liked Dan Mullen and felt comfortable with the Bulldogs. Many fans and boosters of the program were touting Newton as a done deal and felt secure that there was no way he would sign elsewhere.

Well, unfortunately for them, they didn't count on the influence that Newton's father, Cecil, had in the decision.
In an interview given after Cam Newton decided to sign with Auburn, his father gave his reasons for why he didn't feel Mississippi State was the place for his son:

"...They (Mississippi State) just don't have all the moving parts. Cam was going to have to be the star. He'd have to do everything himself. I didn't want him to be a rented mule. Auburn has far more varsity players returning, they have more skill players, they're attracting more highly recruited players and it's right down the street."

So, location and talent level played a part but, correct if wrong, isn't Newton a "rented mule" at Auburn? Seriously, does anyone really believe that the Tigers would be 9-0 without him as their quarterback?

Yet, no need to digress.

Mr. Newton didn't bother to stop there with his comments. When asked point blank if the Bulldogs were Cam's choice, he says the following:

"Absolutely they were. Auburn came on strong at the end. A lot of people pre-supposed that (Cam) would hook up with Dan Mullen. He made an official visit around Thanksgiving and that went really well. I just wasn't sure about it. I like Dan Mullen and I think he has a very bright offensive mind. He's just having to go against the odds in Starkville. I just didn't want Cam to be blinded by an affiliation."

Daddy Newton held all the cards in this situation and Cam had very little choice in the matter.  With that being said, you have to wonder if there is any validity to the rumors—especially when you start throwing in allegations about a sinking church and a pastor who is suddenly able to guarantee that all will be well within six months.

ESPN reports that "Cecil Newton said the family received a letter from the NCAA "about a month ago" asking for financial statements. He said he submitted bank statements and records for the church where he is pastor, Holy Zion Center of Deliverance in Newnan, Ga., along with other records."

The only question worth asking about the above information is how much did Mr. Newton divulge in turning over the financial statements of Holy Zion? It may seem like an ignorant question to ask, but, what if the money were received in cash or via an anonymous donor?

Better still, if he's involved with five other churches, why not siphon the money through another of his ministries? Wouldn't that make Holy Zion's financial statements irrelevant?

Hopefully this story turns out to be a whole lot of hogwash and innuendo based on a wild rumor, started by a disgruntled party. But, where the NCAA has been concerned this season—where there is smoke, there's fire.

No doubt more information will be forthcoming but for Auburn, and Cam Newton, this little distraction can't be fun to have with an undefeated season, a Heisman Trophy, and a potential spot in the BCS Championship all, seemingly, on the line. 

Related articles

• Meet Cam Newton's Father, Cecil Newton (sbnation.com)

Heisman Oversight Committee: What College Football Players Aren't Getting Enough Love?

Cam Newton?...Yeah, we know all about him.


Denard Robinson?...Old news—next!

Kellen Moore?...Boring.


Mark Ingram?...Meh.


All of the above either have been, are, or will be placed in a discussion that suggests possible Heisman Trophy candidacy. However, there is not enough chatter about the following four guys, in particular, who have been lighting the scoreboard up for their respective teams as well.

For them, this site has appointed itself chair of the Heisman Oversight Committee. The number one goal of which is to bring these players to your attention since no one else seems willing or able to do so:


1. Robert Griffin III, QB—Baylor Bears 


It's amazing how much love you get when you play in the SEC or the Big Ten. Neither Cam Newton nor Denard Robinson have lacked in the attention department this season.

Robinson, despite having played bits and pieces of the last several games (losing them all) is still mentioned in the same breath as Newton based on what he did in the first five games of the year— when he seemed unstoppable.

Meanwhile, Robert Griffin has been doing a little playmaking of his own for the Baylor Bears.

He might not have the staggering rushing totals of either Newton or Robinson, but he's been an efficient passer, used his legs when he needed to, and has the Bears (7-2) bowl eligible for the first time in 15 years. Oh, and did we mention that his team is currently tied for first place in the Big 12 South?

Baylor is in position to win the Big 12 South. If that's not worthy of a little more love, then what is?


2010 season stats: 196/294 for 2,592 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. 92 carries for 401 yards and 7 touchdowns. 



2. Bilal Powell, RB—Louisville Cardinals


LaMichael James is all you hear about these days. He's the man that the Heisman committee drools over as he gets closer to eclipsing the 1,600 yard mark on the season. That said, Bilal Powell has come on mighty strong the last four weeks, breaking the 200-yard rushing mark in consecutive weeks as well as making mince meat of a tough Connecticut run defense (rushing for 105).

He's only hit paydirt nine times this season, but that's more than Mark Ingram or Roy Helu Jr. Add to that, he's averaging nearly 20.0 yards per carry—for the year.


2010 season stats: 153 carries, 1,067 yards, and 9 touchdowns.  



3. Da'Quan Bowers, DE—Clemson Tigers

Ryan Kerrigan of Purdue and Nick Fairley are both monsters—no question. But, how about a little more props going the way of the equally beastly Da'Quan Bowers? On top of his 17.5 tackles for loss—through just eight games—he's managed to record 10 sacks and 42 tackles.

His most impressive game this season came against Maryland a couple weeks ago where he tallied four tackles for loss and three sacks. The kid is sick—don't sleep on him.


2010 season stats: 42 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles, and 8 hurries



4. Dan Persa, QB—Northwestern


If it's impressive to see the efficiency ratings of both Kellen Moore (188.30) and Ricky Stanzi (180.28), then it's downright awe-inspiring to look at Dan Persa's numbers as well.

He not only has a higher completion percentage (74.4) on more attempts (244) than the aforementioned quarterbacks, but he's also doing it with his legs as much as with his arms—strapping the Wildcats on his back and nearly willing them to victory.


Perhaps his performance gets lost in the, somewhat, weaker schedule they've played this year, but, that's never hurt Boise's Kellen Moore now—has it?

2010 season stats: 174/234 for 2,062 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 121 carries, 360 yards, and 6 touchdowns. 



What say you? Have a few nominees of your own to offer?

Heisman Hopeful: Is The Cam Newton of 2010 Better Than The Tim Tebow of 2007?

Is Cam Newton better than Tim Tebow was in 2007—the year he won the Heisman Trophy?

It's an easy debate to get embroiled in lately as Cam Newton has set the SEC ablaze this season with both his arm and his legs. He's carried the Auburn Tigers to new heights in just his first year and the Heisman Trophy chatter that surrounds his name has gone from a dull whisper to an all-out roar.

Some feel that the honor is already Newton's to lose. It's much the same as when Tim Tebow won it in 2007 as a true sophomore. The numbers No. 15 put up in Gainesville that season didn't seem natural for any football player—regardless of the system. Tebow was a god in 2007 and there were few who believed that any player would come close to doing what he's done anytime soon.

Enter Cam Newton, who, through eight games already has more rushing yards, on less carries, and is a mere nine touchdowns away from matching Tebow's 23 rushing scores from that 2007 season.

That said, it seemed only fair to see just how closely these two players really are in what they were able to do in their respective seasons.

Rushing:

Cam Newton: 8 games, 157 carries, 1077 yards, and 14 touchdowns 

Tim Tebow: 13 games, 210 carries, 895 yards, and 23 touchdowns

A lot of Tebow's damage came on third downs. He wasn't a running back type player but, rather, a big hulking body who was capable of moving the pile on third-and-short, or picking up the first on a n 8-12 yard draw play.

Newton, by contrast, can flat-out run the ball. He's as dangerous with the ball in his hands as a running back as he is as a passer. He's got the size, the speed, and the elusiveness to break one at any time and that makes him hell to defend.

2010 Regular Season Projection: 236 carries for 1,616 yards, and 21 touchdowns.  

Passing:

Cam Newton: 90/138 for 1,364 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions (Pass Eff. Rating: 172.08)

Tim Tebow:  234/350 for 3,286 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions (Pass Eff.  Rating: 172.47)

Tim Tebow had guys like Louis Murphy, Percy Harvin, Cornelius Ingram, and Andre Caldwell at his disposal. Finding a legitimate target to get the ball to that season was not the problem. On the contrary, it was a bigger issue just keeping the many speedsters on the roster happy with the touches they were able to get.

Cam Newton has Darvin Adams (mainly) and then a conglomeration of guys who may or may not be considered as legitimate—Terrell Zachary has made a small contribution this season, but no one else has really stepped up. Acknowledging that point makes explaining the rushing yards Newton has amassed this season, much easier.

Even so, there is no denying the arm and accuracy of Tim Tebow during his time at Florida.

2010 Regular Season Projection:135/207 for 2,024 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions

Strength of Schedule:

In 2007, Florida had the toughest schedule in the SEC and finished the season 9-4:

Auburn, arguably, has the toughest schedule in the SEC this season and they are, currently, undefeated:

If the Tigers manage to finish the season without a loss, Newton will have navigated a slate that is every bit as challenging as what Tebow faced—except with less weapons to compliment his play.

Points Responsible For:

Cam Newton: 162 total points (through 8).

Tim Tebow: 330 total points.

There is no denying how important each player was/is to his team. During his sophomore year, Tebow was responsible, on average, for 25.38 points per game. Cam Newton, so far this season, is responsible for 20.25 points per game.

Both players led the SEC in that category.

The difference is the way Cam Newton has taken over games. Tebow had a way of rallying guys and getting every one on the field ready to make plays—he was a team focused guy. Newton is content to put the team on his back and find a way to make it happen—all by himself.

He's been successful at doing so thus far, at least four of the Tigers' wins are a direct result of what Newton has been able to do with his own skills to guide him.

Is Cam Newton better than Tim Tebow was a mere three seasons ago? That point is debatable.

However, there is no doubt that Newton deserves to be sitting front-and-center come Heisman time. His presence is the one certainty that cannot be denied.

What say you?

*Stats appearing in this article are courtesy of ncaa.org and cfbstats.com

BCS Rankings: Should The Auburn Tigers Be No. 1?

Lets try and forget for a moment that Ohio State is getting their backside handed to them by Wisconsin right now—after all, there is still plenty of football left to play in that particular game.

That said, Auburn and Arkansas have played their game and, minus the arm and skill of Ryan Mallett, the Hogs did fall 65-43 to the Tigers in "The Plains".

If you negate the 43 points that the Auburn defense gave up, and look solely at the sheer domination of the offense—most notably, Cam Newton—you have to start asking yourself this one question: can any team in the country beat Auburn right now?

Newton has been an absolute beast this season, he's done everything he was advertised to do and then some, leading an Auburn team that, two seasons ago, became a mockery in the SEC after hiring the likes of Gene Chizik. A guy who no one felt was an SEC-caliber head coach after tallying a horrific 5-15 record at Iowa State—that crowd of naysayers included some of the Auburn faithful.

What a difference a, potentially, undefeated season, consecutive top 20 recruiting classes, a top 10 ranking, and a big time quarterback can make, eh?

Auburn hasn't won any Division-I football games as convincingly as they won over Arkansas today and, despite the absence of Ryan Mallet, it's hard to say that there is another team they will face this season that will have the necessary personnel to stop this roll they have started.

Cam Newton is the Heisman winner...not just a candidate—the winner. No one comes close to doing what he's done against the SEC this year. The performances, or lack thereof, of both Denard Robinson (vs Iowa) and Taylor Martinez (vs. Texas) today showed just how much distance there is between a great player and Cam Newton—trust, it's quite a margin.

Through today's game, Newton now has close to 900 yards rushing—he leads the SEC—and he will, assuredly, reach the 1,000 yard mark this year. When he does, it will be impossible not to lock him in for the Heisman because he'll likely have close to 20 rushing touchdowns as well—that's unreal.

Either way, Auburn has found lightning in a bottle and, for the moment, it seems that there are no legitimate contenders to rain on their parade. 

Is Reggie Bush Kidding or Delusional—The Lady's Friday Links (9/17)

Reggie Bush returned his 2005 Heisman trophy to the Heisman Trophy Trust on yesterday. The former USC running back stated that: “It’s definitely not an admission of guilt. It’s me showing my respect to the Heisman Trophy and to the people who come before me and the people who come after me. You’re going to keep hearing the same thing because that’s what it is. It’s not an admission of guilt it’s me feeling like this is the best thing for me and the Heisman Trust right now.” Awww, isn't that special, Reggie is finally thinking of someone other than himself. Seriously, if he doesn't think he did anything wrong, why bother returning the trophy in the first place? Not inclined to buy that he's suddenly become enlightened about the situation, despite what he says.

Are Alabama and Oregon heading for disappointment in week three?...Doubtful, but I guess the story makes for good copy. On the other hand, that Tennessee over Florida pick makes perfect sense—just saying.

Isaiah Crowell is skipping his visit to the University of Georgia football game this Saturday, but the AJC assures that this is nothing to be worried about, if you're a Georgia Bulldog fan.

Speaking of the Georgia Bulldogs, wide receiver A.J. Green will be heard by the NCAA at some point today. The junior is currently serving a four-game suspension for selling his bowl game jersey. UGA hopes that his suspension is reduced and he will be allowed to play with the team on tomorrow—don't hold your breath.

After a few stellar performances, Michigan phenom, Denard Robinson, is already being analyzed as a future NFL prospect. It may be a little too early for the Michael Vick comparisons, but I guess the college football world needs something to hang onto right now.

Florida hasn't been impressive this season, thus far, so I suppose that gives writers an opportunity to turn their attention to the other things about Urban Meyer's program that is worthy of mention...like whether or not he's running a "dirty program" in Gainesville. Wow. what a difference a Tebow-less team makes. 

If you have been impressed by the performance of the Kentucky Wildcats, under new coach Joker Phillps, so far this season, then this writer has a little bit of reality to impart about just how good the Wildcats really are—don't get your hopes up. 

Tulane head coach isn't saying it's okay that his team lost to Ole Miss last weekend, but he is able to find the silver-lining—it wasn't like they were blown out by the Rebels (they lost 27-13). Said Bob Toledo, "“That’s the first time I’ve seen our offensive line run off the ball and knock people back...we were more physical in that game than we’ve been in four years since I’ve been here. Our physicality on both sides of the line impressed me.” No offense to the Green Wave but, Ole Miss is looking less and less impressive by the day.

This writer thinks the SEC East is the weaker of the two divisions this season (due mostly to Florida's offensive losses). Hmmm, that's funny, I don't recall one of the Eastern Division teams losing to it's I-AA opponent—just saying.

Middle Tennessee State will get their prized quarterback/running back, Dwight Dasher back in time to play conference power, Troy, on October 5th. Dasher was suspended for four-games due to accepting an impermissible loan of $1500.

I'll tell you this much, Bruce Pearl (Head Basketball Coach at Tennessee) has one hell of an agent. Despite his recent admission of guilt, Tennessee may not be able to terminate his contract. Man, that AD over in Knoxville has a way of getting screwed by his head coaches—didn't Kiffin get away free as a bird with a menial buyout? I think they need a new overseer in that department because the current one is not exactly top-notch.

Cool videos of the week—the SEC is well-represented.



That Beano Cook cracks me up! Do they actually pay him for his analysis or what?



Georgia has turnover issues?...What games has this guy been watching?

New USC AD Pat Haden Could Be Trouble For Lane Kiffin

Today, the USC Trojans did some house cleaning and, in the process, sent a message to the NCAA and the college football world that "Playtime Is Over" in Southern California.

Athletic Director Mike Garrett was fired,  replaced by the clean-cut, wholesome, image of Pat Haden—a former Trojan and member of the USC board of trustees. He has since resigned from the latter.


He is a well-respected figure in the community and, at USC, few will find any reason to disagree with the choice—especially given the recent turmoil the program has suffered with Garrett at the wheel.

Also gone is any material memory of Reggie Bush. His No. 5 jersey along with the Heisman Trophy he won in 2005 have both been removed from Heritage Hall. Said president-elect Max Nikias, "The Trojan Family honors and respects the USC sporting careers of those persons whose actions did not compromise their athletic program or the opportunities of future USC student-athletes,". 

USC is certainly following the guidelines set forth by the NCAA which advised them to disassociate themselves from Bush in the wake of the scandal. However, it does make you wonder, will they return all the revenue they reaped as a result of his jersey sales? Will they return the money that was likely generated from the boosters and alumni who gladly opened their checkbooks thanks to his greatness on the field?

Don't get me wrong, Reggie Bush was a punk for what he did and he deserves to be stripped of the Heisman, but lets not be naive to how much money USC made off his success either—just saying.

But, I digress.

It's all business now at USC and that means there will be a lot less hand-wringing and side-chatter surrounding the program and it's dealings where the athletes and coaches are concerned. Which naturally leads us to new head coach, Lane Kiffin.

I seriously doubt that his "dream job" entailed him having a semi-permanent set of eyes looking over his shoulder. However, that may very well be the case now that J.K. McKay will be appointed the associate athletic director of football.

McKay's primary job will be to act as the liaison between new AD, Pat Haden, and the football program. In other words, Kiffin's freedom just got a whole lot more restrained.

It's no secret that McKay and Haden have a close relationship and that leaves little doubt as to where McKay's loyalty will be.  He will surely scrutinize Kiffin's every move and that could make Kiffin's time on the sidelines a lot less enjoyable.

It doesn't help that Kiffin has already come under fire for his, somewhat, questionable recruiting tactics at USC already.

The first red flag came after he accepted the job. One of his assistants, with Kiffin's blessing, was rumored to have called some of Tennessee's (Kiffin's former employer) best prospects in an effort to get them to switch their commitment to USC instead.

Then came the Seantrel Henderson debacle.

Kiffin was, allegedly, dishonest with Henderson about the severity of the upcoming sanctions. Henderson never did sign with the Trojans due in large part to deception.

Add to that, the recent transfer of a number of junior and senior players to other Division I schools, and Kiffin has already been through the wringer without having called a snap.

If more of these shenanigans continue, I foresee swift and definitive action by Haden to cut Kiffin loose.  After all, USC can undoubtedly find a more experienced, less media-obsessed coach for $4 million.

Either way, I set the over/under on Kiffin's departure at 2-years because his dream just turned into a nightmare.

NCAA Football: Five SEC Offensive Players Who Won't Endure A Sophomore Slump

A "sophomore slump" is easy to explain. It's a condition which has effected enough second-year players that its become a well-known, oft-expected, affliction. Some guys will manage to avoid it, but most players do hit that proverbial wall at some point.

Why? The main reason is opposing defenses begin to familiarize themselves better with that guy's style of play.

See, the great thing about being new to a conference is defenses aren't familiar with a player's tendencies yet. Film can only show so much—the real test comes on the field. Many times, a players speed, agility, and strength can be underestimated.

That said, upon first encounter, many defenses will be a bit unprepared. However, defensive coordinators don't get paid to only watch tape, they are paid to not be fooled twice and, that means, by the second time around, most defenses will have adjusted their schemes to impede a particular player's progress.

Once that happens, it becomes that player's job to adjust his tendencies again. That is not done easily as many of these guys have been running, catching, juking, and cutting the same way their whole life. Many simply cannot make those adjustments without seeing a drop in their production from the previous season—therein lay the foundation for the dreaded sophomore slump. 

Even so, there are players who will be able to defy those odds and make a run at being even better than the year before—a sophomore superstar if you will. 

In my opinion, these guys are primed to be even better player as sophomores (be they true or redshirt) than they were as mere freshmen:

1. Trent Richardson—Alabama 

2009 Stats: 144 Attempts, 749 yards, and 8 Touchdowns (5.20 YPC)

He's got great size, tremendous strength, and an uncanny ability to leave defenders diving at his heels. He also plays for a team that has a Heisman trophy winner starting at the tailback position.

Mark Ingram, the 2009 Heisman winning running back for the Tide, returns for his junior season. He will still command the bulk of the Tide's carries, leaving Richardson free to run as dangerously as he pleases in 2010—no pressure means very little drop in production.

The spotlight on him is brighter, but it's still Ingram's team until further notice. That means Richardson can keep auditioning for 2011—the year he's likely to take over the top spot for the Tide.

I see big things for him in 2010—how could you not?

Fearless Prediction: 175 attempts, 962 yards, and 12 Touchdowns

2. Ronnie Wingo, Jr.—Arkansas

2009 Stats: 50 Attempts, 318 yards, and 3 Touchdowns (6.36 YPC)

Everyone knows that the Razorbacks can throw the ball behind the arm of, probable Heisman candidate, Ryan Mallett, but the key to a Hog revival in the SEC West won't come through the air, but on the ground.

In the SEC, it's nice to have a good passing game in your arsenal but if you expect to win the close ones, you have to establish a good running game to offset your air attack. The Hogs have no less than three talented men to fill that void and none of them is full of more promise than Ronnie Wingo.

His 6'3" frame coupled with his 200+ pounds of muscle are daunting enough but coupled that with his speed and vision and you have one serious player on your hands.

He didn't get nearly the carries he deserved last season but don't expect that to happen again in 2010.

Fearless Prediction: 115 Attempts, 667 Yards, and 7 Touchdowns

3. Orson Charles—Georgia

2009 Stats: 23 Receptions, 374 Yards, and 3 Touchdowns (16.26 YPC)

Charles may have been one of the last to sign in Georgia's 2009 recruiting class, but he was one of the first to make some noise on the football field last season.

He is listed as a tight end for Georgia, but his overall skill set makes him every bit as dangerous as a wide receiver.

The Bulldogs will break in a new quarterback this year—Charles' good friend and teammate from Plant High—Aaron Murray. The two had great chemistry in high school and have renewed that bond as teammates at Georgia. That bodes well for Orson who became a safe target for former QB Joe Cox in multiple situations last season.

Add to that, the receiving corps is thin for the Bulldogs this season and that means more looks toward the tight end spot this year—expect Orson to take advantage of more opportunities to shine brightly for Georgia.

Fearless Prediction: 38 Receptions, 665 Yards, and 5 Touchdowns

4. Tori Gurley—South Carolina

2009 Stats: 31 Receptions, 440 Yards, and 2 Touchdowns (14.19 YPC)

It would have been easy to pick Alshon Jeffery here, after all, he's one of the most talented receivers on the Gamecock squad and he too is just a sophomore.

However, the pressure to succeed in the face of tremendous expectations will be much higher on Jeffery than on Gurley. Which, in my opinion, means Gurley is more likely to continue his consistency into 2010 and make an even bigger name for himself in Columbia this coming season.

At 6'5", 230 lbs, he's already a load. However, it's his stifling ability to make the big grab that makes him one of the most dangerous weapons in South Carolina's arsenal—assuming he has a competent quarterback to throw him the ball.

Look for more production out of Gurley this season as he struts out of the shadow of his fellow teammates meteoric rise.

Fearless Prediction: 52 Receptions, 769 Yards, and 7 Touchdowns

5. Rueben Randle—LSU

2009 Stats: 11 Receptions, 173 Yards, and 2 Touchdowns (15.73 YPC)

As a freshman, Randle wasn't able to make as big an impact as he might have liked.

The Tigers of 2009 were squared away at the No.'s 1 and 2 receiver position, with both Brandon LaFell and Terrance Tolliver towing the line. However, with LaFell moving on to the NFL and Tolliver laying claim to the No. 1 spot, Randle could finally get his opportunity to show the SEC what he can do—sitting pretty at No. 2.

He will get a little interference from Russell Shepard, that other sophomore dynamo who recently moved over from the quarterback spot, but the benefit of playing as a true wide receiver last season will give him a bit of an edge,development wise,over his teammate.

Randle has great ability as a playmaker and he will, no doubt, break off some highlight reel runs after the catch this coming season. Add to that, the introduction of Billy Gonzalez (the former Florida Gators receiving coach) as his new position coach and the sky could be the limit for Randle in 2010.

Fearless Prediction: 52 Receptions, 780 Yards, and 5 Touchdowns 

(This article appears courtesy of The Lady Sportswriter)

Mark Bradley Is Making People Angry Again—Why, Mark, Why?

Mark Bradley, one of the Atlanta-Journal Constitution's most trusted writers, has once again laid forth another brilliant article. As usual, it's not flattering of the Georgia Bulldogs and I don't know that I can agree with 50 percent of what he has to say regarding them or any of the other teams he dares to mention. 

Here are some of it's moset head-scratching assertions and, of course, my vain attempt to rip them to shreds:

Georgia will go 9-3 but will finish third in the SEC East. Todd Grantham represents an upgrade. Given time, Aaron Murray will represent an upgrade. Thing is, the Bulldogs’ second game is in Columbia, and that seems a bridge too far. (More precisely, a bridge too soon.) The guess is that Georgia will be rolling come November, but that Sept. 11 loss — and one the next week against Arkansas in Athens — will keep the Bulldogs from a true breakthrough.

Losses to both Arkansas and South Carolina? Under coach Richt, Georgia is 12-2 against Arkansas and South Carolina combined. Explain how they will lose to a South Carolina team that 1) has no idea who it will play at quarterback and 2) hasn't had a viable running game since....well, since...I can't even remember. I can agree that the game will be close, that's the way this game has been played since coach Richt's arrival in  2001 but, Columbia or not, I cannot see the Gamecocks just outright beating Georgia.

As for Arkansas, last time I checked, Ryan Mallett was gimpy and the matchup against Georgia will be his first true test of the season (no disrespect to Tennessee Tech and Louisiana-Monroe, but, seriously?). He was 0-4 on the road against the SEC last season—is he going to be monumentally better than that in 2010? And what will the defense be like? There are some holes to fill in their secondary and there is no guarantee that the new offensive coordinator will be as good under Garrick McGee as it was under the, now departed, Paul Petrino.

My guess is this, if Georgia loses to either Arkansas or South Carolina, it won't be a huge surprise but, no way in heck they lose to both—that I don't see.

Even more, if they go 9-3 and South Carolina goes 9-3, what game is the tie-breaker? If Georgia beats Florida, wouldn't Georgia win the East? After all, according to Mark's article:

Florida will go 11-1 because of a remarkably kind schedule. The Gators play four road games: Two against teams (Tennessee and Florida State) with new coaches and one against Vanderbilt. The Gators will lose in Tuscaloosa on Oct. 2, but they’ll see Alabama again.

There is a lot of love for Florida, as usual, despite the loss of 1) Tim Tebow, 2) Charlie Strong, 3) six offensive starters, and 4) six defensive starters (including both defensive ends).  Florida may return one of the stronger offensive lines in the country, but, what difference will that make if they can't stop anybody? Even more, John Brantley may be the man that everyone says he is, but he hasn't been tested on the road or in the SEC, so, how about a little more realism?

Florida has scheduled it's buffet of cupcakes, as per normal, but the SEC is still a tough place to play and without Tebow, no one is all that scared of Florida anymore.

Tim Tebow will win the Heisman Trophy. Whoops. Force of habit. Case Keenum — Houston QB — will win the Heisman Trophy.

Case Keenum is an outstanding quarterback but his team plays a cupcake schedule in a non-BCS conference. I don't care what he does this season, he won't win the Heisman.

The ACC Coastal will be the nation’s toughest division. There’s not a great team therein, but there are four good ones. Miami will be the disappointment. North Carolina will be the surprise. Virginia Tech will win the division. And Georgia Tech …

It will be the toughest division yet it doesn't have "a great team therein..."? That just seems foolish to say. Aside from that, the most balanced team in that division is Virginia Tech. Miami needs to find a running game, North Carolina needs a passing game, and Georgia Tech just lost their 2nd best offensive weapon to the NFL. I don't see the ACC Coastal being the toughest division, that distinction could belong to the Pac-10 this season.

Georgia will beat Georgia Tech. A.J. Green will catch the winning touchdown pass from Murray with 41 seconds remaining. The score will be 27-24. Paul Johnson will suppress the urge to punch somebody in the face.

Georgia will, essentially, have the same offensive personnel and will be playing this game at Sanford. If its close enough that Georgia will need game-winning heroics from A.J., then I'm setting my "SEC homer" card on fire. Georgia will have a week to prepare for this game and I more than expect the 3-4 to be in full swing by this time. I don't see it being close at all—Tech won't get to 24 points. Yes, I said it.

Well, I could pick on Mark some more, but, it's not necessary. Go read the article and have at it yourself.

Back later today with a little more.