Pre-Season 2014 FCS Champion Prediction Thread

[centennial]

NDSU - Till someone knocks us off
UNI - Somehow they manage to screw it up every time, I do think they have a chance
EWU- They will be hard to beat with Adams
Others-
Montana
UNH
Maine
Furman
Chatt
SELA
McNesse

Who do you think will take it all in 2014-15?

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

I'd add Fordham and Coastal Carolina to your list...

As for the title game, I'll go with UNH vs UNI. These two have crossed paths before. My guess is we have a first time champion....

[Yotes]

I'll go with EWU or NDSU for the title.

[IBleedYellow]

I'll go with EWU or NDSU for the title.

That'd be five years straight of EWU or NDSU winning. I'd be okay with this.

[BisonFan02]

The champion will come out of the MVFC...I'll leave it at that for now.

[gumby013]

My prediction is that I have tickets for Frisco.

[Bisonator]

I'll go with EWU or NDSU for the title.

I agree.

[citdog]

I like Southeastern Louisiana.

[Cocky]

JSU will be the NC.

[Redbirdz]

I agree. They might run the table.

[lionsrking2]

I like Southeastern Louisiana.

I don't make predictions, and I have a healthy respect for the other top programs in the country, but we do have the talent and depth on both sides of the ball to make a serious run at it.

[citdog]

I don't make predictions, and I have a healthy respect for the other top programs in the country, but we do have the talent and depth on both sides of the ball to make a serious run at it.

Bennett is a TALENT. Going to have to be stout up front to compete with the NDSU's and UNI's who are talented there. Your defense was streaky but when they were good they were REALLY good and when they weren't.......

[PaladinFan]

Good to see Furman back in the conversation. I'm not prepared to say they will compete for a title, but they gave NDSU as tough a game as anyone last year in the playoffs (for a half at least, which is more than most teams could muster) with a roster of freshmen and sophomores and, once healthy, carved up the SoCon. Stands to chance the Paladins could make a decent run in 2014.

[FCS_pwns_FBS]

I'd be tempted to pick NDSU, but I do kind of wonder how not having a QB with a zillion starts of experience will affect their offense. I also don't think Crockett will be quite as effective when he has to carry part of the load that was shared with Ojuri. I'm sure that they lose some seasoned veterans who have many starts on defense as well.

I am intrigued by Furman and I think it'll be interesting to see what they do. They really matured as a team throughout the year and I think they have a case for last year's silver medal.

I also expect the Griz to be in the conversation late in the regular season. Why not?

[clenz]

I also expect the Griz to be in the conversation late in the regular season. Why not?
They play in the Big Sky so they are pretty much a lock for at least 7 wins, plus a D2, so that's 8. They then get a bottom 1/3rd MVFC school so that should be 9

Wyoming, NDSU, and EWU are the only games they should lose on that schedule. It's about like my pillow....pretty soft.

[BisonBacker]

I'd be tempted to pick NDSU, but I do kind of wonder how not having a QB with a zillion starts of experience will affect their offense. I also don't think Crockett will be quite as effective when he has to carry part of the load that was shared with Ojuri. I'm sure that they lose some seasoned veterans who have many starts on defense as well.

I am intrigued by Furman and I think it'll be interesting to see what they do. They really matured as a team throughout the year and I think they have a case for last year's silver medal.

I also expect the Griz to be in the conversation late in the regular season. Why not?

I think you are going to be pleasantly surprised at 2 guys who will be seeing considerable playing time at RB. Last year one wasn't with our team "frazier" and Chase Morlock played sparingly as a Freshman. They are both going to compliment Crockett and see considerable playing time. Both are very good.

[BisonBacker]

Clenz how many guys did you lose on O and D to graduation? Sorry to lazy to look I'm sure it's been covered somewhere just easier to ask. :D

[Bisonator]

Good to see Furman back in the conversation. I'm not prepared to say they will compete for a title, but they gave NDSU as tough a game as anyone last year in the playoffs (for a half at least, which is more than most teams could muster) with a roster of freshmen and sophomores and, once healthy, carved up the SoCon. Stands to chance the Paladins could make a decent run in 2014.

Furman is one to watch this year. Great young team you guys got coming back. xthumbsupx

[Bisonator]

I think you are going to be pleasantly surprised at 2 guys who will be seeing considerable playing time at RB. Last year one wasn't with our team "frazier" and Chase Morlock played sparingly as a Freshman. They are both going to compliment Crockett and see considerable playing time. Both are very good.

I wouldn't count out Darius Anderson either. He's looked pretty good this spring again. Not to mention that Desouza(spelling) kid who has come out of no where. Bison have a pretty stacked RB corp.

[PaladinFan]

Furman is one to watch this year. Great young team you guys got coming back. xthumbsupx

Most Bison fans were not even tuned into the FCS, but Furman in the national conversation used to be a yearly thing :) As a fan, it is nice to see the ship might now have once again been righted. I would have loved to have seen our 2004 and 2005 teams play up in Fargo last fall.

[clenz]

Clenz how many guys did you lose on O and D to graduation? Sorry to lazy to look I'm sure it's been covered somewhere just easier to ask. :D
OL was 1....though he was a 3 or 4 year starter at guard. UNI usually rotates 6-7 lineman though so there will be experience there.
DL was the 2 DE's but we get our top DT back so we will go back to a 4-3 look with 6'2 290lb Mac O'Brien and 6'4 315lb Xavier Williams in the middle.

The DE's (Chris Jepsen and Colin Albrecht) had very good years but did a lot of rotating with a Isaac Ales (JR this coming year) and Brett McMakin (rSO this year). McMakin was playing a ton at the end of the year.

With the way players were rotating last year with the injuries it's so hard to tell how many starters are back. I would guess there are 10 official starers back on offense, but the team also gets Brett Lemaster (the teams top WR) and the top TE back.

Defense loses the 2 DEs and LB Jordan Gacke but I think according to the media guide I read over the spring returns 9 starters so one of the DE's must not have been a "starter" somehow.

Last years UNI team had just 13 total seniors - and one of them got a medical for last season. Of those 13 only 6 saw "real" PT and one of those was the kicker - the new kicker hit a 55 yarder in the spring game.

Basic stat break down of what returns is something like this (doesn't take into account if someone leaves the program over the summer)

Rushing:
469 attempts last season
469 attempts returning (100%)
2180 yards last season
2180 yards returning(100%)
16 TDs last season
16 TDs returning(100%)

Passing
331 attempts last season
328 attempts returning (a FR and a SO transfered)...Sawyer is only a JR this year....(99.1%)
198 completions last season
197 completions returning (99.5%)
2281 yards last season
2262 yards returning (99.2)
16 TD last season
16 TD returnining (100%)

Most importantly Sawyer is healthy again

Recieving
198 receptions last saeason
192 returning (97%)
2281 yards last season
2203 returning (97%)
16 touchdowns last season
15 returning (94%)
Plus getting back the top WR and top TE.

I'll have to get the defensive stats later. That will take more time.

As long as UNI can avoid OT they should be fine...

Scoring by quarter last season





1st
2nd
3rd
4th
OT
Total


UNI
78
86
83
59
9
315


Opponents
44
42
67
47
26
226



That goes to show the area UNI needs to improve - the red zone...which having the top WR and TE will help with. Scored just 20 TD's on 48 red zone trips and scored just 37 times (77%) of the time in the red zone.

[dcpsujag]

Southeastern,but dont sleep on Tennessee state doubt they make the championship however they will make noise in the playoffs

[chattownmocs]

Jacksonville state's band of sorry SEC castoffs that made the "best recruiting class in fcs history" will win it all. Oh, nevermind. They suck.

[Daytripper]

As much as it pains me, I will have to give the nod to SELA. It will be interesting to watch the impact Coach Keeler has at Sam Houston. If they find a QB who can play, they may surprise a few people (but I have no illusions that they will be in Frisco). But I will be in Frisco to watch, no matter who is playing.

[Silenoz]

They play in the Big Sky so they are pretty much a lock for at least 7 wins, plus a D2, so that's 8. They then get a bottom 1/3rd MVFC school so that should be 9

Wyoming, NDSU, and EWU are the only games they should lose on that schedule. It's about like my pillow....pretty soft.

Should lose.... like a fox


Well, yeah probably

[clenz]

Should lose.... like a fox


Well, yeah probably
I'm not saying that will but out of their entire schedule if they are going to lose games those are the only three they "should"...

I guess I could have had could but that doesn't take into account upsets.

[Silenoz]

Our playbook*:

18948


*Also, defensive scheme and 4th-down playcalling

[Sammy94]

As much as it pains me, I will have to give the nod to SELA.

I'll agree with this.

[clenz]

OL was 1....though he was a 3 or 4 year starter at guard. UNI usually rotates 6-7 lineman though so there will be experience there.
DL was the 2 DE's but we get our top DT back so we will go back to a 4-3 look with 6'2 290lb Mac O'Brien and 6'4 315lb Xavier Williams in the middle.

The DE's (Chris Jepsen and Colin Albrecht) had very good years but did a lot of rotating with a Isaac Ales (JR this coming year) and Brett McMakin (rSO this year). McMakin was playing a ton at the end of the year.

With the way players were rotating last year with the injuries it's so hard to tell how many starters are back. I would guess there are 10 official starers back on offense, but the team also gets Brett Lemaster (the teams top WR) and the top TE back.

Defense loses the 2 DEs and LB Jordan Gacke but I think according to the media guide I read over the spring returns 9 starters so one of the DE's must not have been a "starter" somehow.

Last years UNI team had just 13 total seniors - and one of them got a medical for last season. Of those 13 only 6 saw "real" PT and one of those was the kicker - the new kicker hit a 55 yarder in the spring game.

Basic stat break down of what returns is something like this (doesn't take into account if someone leaves the program over the summer)

Rushing:
469 attempts last season
469 attempts returning (100%)
2180 yards last season
2180 yards returning(100%)
16 TDs last season
16 TDs returning(100%)

Passing
331 attempts last season
328 attempts returning (a FR and a SO transfered)...Sawyer is only a JR this year....(99.1%)
198 completions last season
197 completions returning (99.5%)
2281 yards last season
2262 yards returning (99.2)
16 TD last season
16 TD returnining (100%)

Most importantly Sawyer is healthy again

Recieving
198 receptions last saeason
192 returning (97%)
2281 yards last season
2203 returning (97%)
16 touchdowns last season
15 returning (94%)
Plus getting back the top WR and top TE.

I'll have to get the defensive stats later. That will take more time.

As long as UNI can avoid OT they should be fine...

Scoring by quarter last season





1st
2nd
3rd
4th
OT
Total


UNI
78
86
83
59
9
315


Opponents
44
42
67
47
26
226



That goes to show the area UNI needs to improve - the red zone...which having the top WR and TE will help with. Scored just 20 TD's on 48 red zone trips and scored just 37 times (77%) of the time in the red zone.
From what I can piece together on ST and defense

All kick and punt return yards are back...the team wasn't real impressive in either though with 6 yards per punt return and 21 per kick return.

10 of 11 INTs are back

This is what I can do for defense. At that time Farley broke his leg he was the leading tackler by a decent margin...Red is graduated



DEFENSIVE LEADERS
GP
Solo
Ast
Total
TFL-Yds
No-Yds
Int-Yds
BU
PD
Qbh
Rcv-Yds
FF
Kick


35
Gacke, Jordan
12
46
44
90
6.5
- 20
.

1
- 15
.
1
2
1
- 0
.
.


37
Busher, Max
12
40
35
75
5.0
- 15
2.0
- 7

.
2
2
1

.
.
.


98
Williams,Xavier
11
39
35
74
12.0
- 35
5.5
- 24

.
2
2
1
1
- 9
1
.


41
Tim, Sam
12
42
29
71
6.0
- 20
2.0
- 12

.
3
3
2
1
- 0
1
.


15
Omli, Tate
12
30
29
59
1.0
- 1
.

2
- 27
1
3
.

.
.
.


1
Hall, Deiondre'
12
38
19
57
6.5
- 30
3.0
- 16
2
- 68
5
7
1

.
.
1


46
Farley, Jake
5
23
33
56
2.0
- 8
1.5
- 8

.
1
1
.
1
- 20
1
.


11
Mitchell, Ray
12
33
22
55
2.0
- 4
.

4
- 179
3
7
.
1
- 0
.
.


5
Dorleant, Makinton
12
34
20
54
4.0
- 31
.

1
- 0
4
5
.

.
1
.


24
Kilfoy, Tim
8
24
18
42
.

.


.
1
1
.
1
- 0
2
.


23
Cutkomp, Zach
12
20
12
32
1.5
- 7
.


.
1
1
.

.
1
.


92
Albrecht,Collin
11
19
13
32
13.5
- 93
8.0
- 60

.
.
.
2

.
1
.


49
McMakin, Brett
8
22
7
29
2.0
- 13
2.0
- 13

.
1
1
.
1
- 0
1
.


91
Jepsen, Chris
12
13
12
25
7.5
- 32
2.0
- 14

.
1
1
2

.
.
.


94
Ales, Isaac
11
13
10
23
4.5
- 20
3.0
- 18

.
.
.
.

.
.
.


29
Whiting,Jamison
11
18
3
21
1.0
- 3
.


.
3
3
.

.
.
.


4
Brown, Charles
11
13
6
19
.

.

1
- 12
.
1
.

.
.
.


2
Feldpausch, Joe
11
8
6
14
.

.


.
.
.
.

.
1
.


47
McNeil, Ronelle
11
10
3
13
3.0
- 18
2.0
- 16

.
1
1
.
1
- 0
.
1


36
Webb, Jordan
12
4
6
10
.

.


.
.
.
.
1
- 0
.
.


6
Barnes, Jalen
11
6
4
10
.

.


.
.
.
.

.
1
.

[paward]

I am going with the homer pick. Richmond Spiders!

[IBleedYellow]

I'll agree with this.

That same team that got manhandled by UNI last year?

Nope.

[344Johnson]

That same team that got manhandled by UNI last year?

Nope.

You are thinking mcneese I think

[NoDak 4 Ever]

You are thinking mcneese I think

Has to be.

[BisonBacker]

I wouldn't count out Darius Anderson either. He's looked pretty good this spring again. Not to mention that Desouza(spelling) kid who has come out of no where. Bison have a pretty stacked RB corp.

I'm not but he's like Ryan Smith size wise maybe a little bigger but the point is he's not big enough to carry the load as a primary RB. The occasional run like they did with Ryan I certainly could see him doing though.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

They play in the Big Sky so they are pretty much a lock for at least 7 wins, plus a D2, so that's 8. They then get a bottom 1/3rd MVFC school so that should be 9

Wyoming, NDSU, and EWU are the only games they should lose on that schedule. It's about like my team....pretty soft.

FIFY

[clenz]

FIFY
2 FBS games plus an attempt at picking up a upper tier FCS game.

At least UNI finally gets Indiana State back on the schedule to get another W....

[centennial]

2 FBS games plus an attempt at picking up a upper tier FCS game.

At least UNI finally gets Indiana State back on the schedule to get another W....
Hawaii is no better than bottom half MVFC team. Otherwise I agree.

[clenz]

Hawaii is no better than bottom half MVFC team. Otherwise I agree.
Iowa+Hawaii>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Wyoming+anyone on Montana's OOC schedule

The best team Montana faces UNI sees every year in conference...so...that SOS is gone

[IBleedYellow]

Oh wow, Sorry SELA, I didn't mean to confuse you and McNeese.

[Sammy94]

Sorry SELA, I didn't mean to confuse you and McNeese.

There is no comparison. McNeese may have lost a few games but they are still the class act of the SLC. SELA has just rounded up a nice array of FBS talented transfers and will be tough to beat in 2014.

[The Ville]

Jacksonville state's band of sorry SEC castoffs that made the "best recruiting class in fcs history" will win it all. Oh, nevermind. They suck.
Really? Two guys I believe from SEC that may contribute this season. Looking forward to the trip to Chattanooga the week after we warm up with Michigan State.

[Silenoz]

Is there any particular reason we're going after Montana's OOC schedule? It has to be one of the better* ones in FCS this year... plus I take anything Ursus ever says as tongue-in-cheek


*All winnable, 3 out of 4 are quality with a sadly necessary DII game

[darell1976]

I will go with someone but NDSU will win the NC. NDSU may get there but not win it. No team will 4 peat.

[centennial]

Iowa+Hawaii>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Wyoming+anyone on Montana's OOC schedule

The best team Montana faces UNI sees every year in conference...so...that SOS is gone
I think Wyoming will be an improved team this year, same for South Dakota and they play NDSU. Outside of that, MVFC is better than the Big Sky and SOS will reflect that. Their biggest priority is getting into the playoffs, scheduling upper BCS teams that will give them a beat down doesn't make sense for them. Most of the MVFC need a money game more than Montana.

[344Johnson]

I will go with someone but NDSU will win the NC. NDSU may get there but not win it. No team will 4 peat.

I don't like the way this post is structured. Nor the message I think it is intended to convey.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

I will go with someone but NDSU will win the NC. NDSU may get there but not win it. No team will 4 peat.



The Bison have a very good chance to 4-peat this year. The Defense is going to be very good this year and that will keep the Bison in every game.

The running game is also going to be awesome....like it usually is. Pound teams into the ground and play good defense. Wentz (QB) does not have to be all-world but just manage the game and move the chains when needed.

That said: Teams that I think have a legit chance of winning the NC in '14.

UNI
EWU
Furman
SELA
UNH
NDSU

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

They play in the Big Sky so they are pretty much a lock for at least 7 wins, plus a D2, so that's 8. They then get a bottom 1/3rd MVFC school so that should be 9

Wyoming, NDSU, and EWU are the only games they should lose on that schedule. It's about like my pillow....pretty soft.





If UNI stays healthy, they are going to be tough to beat. They have a ton of talent coming back. Those two DTs are going to be beasts in the middle for that defense.

IMO, the only teams that have a chance of beating UNI this year are Iowa, NDSU and maybe SIU.

[clenz]

If UNI stays healthy, they are going to be tough to beat. They have a ton of talent coming back. Those two DTs are going to be beasts in the middle for that defense.

IMO, the only teams that have a chance of beating UNI this year are Iowa, NDSU and maybe SIU.

You forgot to add UNI to that just.

I've never seen a team so good at beating themselves year after year after year after year after decade

Sent from my S4 using Tapatalk

[Bogus Megapardus]

I'm going to go with SE Louisiana and N. Iowa in the championship but I have no guess who will win.

As much as I like NDSU I'm not feeling the 4-peat. I think NDSU will be in the final four, though, along with a CAA team like UNH or Towson.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

You forgot to add UNI to that just.

I've never seen a team so good at beating themselves year after year after year after year after decade

Sent from my S4 using Tapatalk


Maybe clenz but I think this is the year that UNI could win it all. Too many returning starters coming back plus Farley will be back (?).

Injuries are always the 'X' factor for all teams but a healthy UNI team is going to be tough to beat.

[clenz]

Maybe clenz but I think this is the year that UNI could win it all. Too many returning starters coming back plus Farley will be back (?).

Injuries are always the 'X' factor for all teams but a healthy UNI team is going to be tough to beat.

I want so badly to believe that, I really do but I can point directly to the 2009 season as to why I'm holding back.

07 UNI goes undefeated into the playoffs. The following year that 07 team that had a number of sophs playing gets to the semis. The vast majority of that team returned for 09. Something like 19 total starters. Individual talent like crazy on the field.... The 07 team got done in by Flacco and Flacco alone. That 08 team would have destroyed Montana in the title game had the last 1:42 not been a donkey show that is the epitome of being a UNI fan. The experience ess all over the field

Sounding relatively familiar yet?


That 09 team was the preseason conference favorite and,I believe, a top 3-5 ranking opened with Iowa....again, sounding familiar?

That 09 team went to Iowa City and dominated the Hawkeyes for 59 minutes...then lost as only UNI could...literally the only team to ever lose that way. That team completely and utterly feel apart on and off the field with egos and miss the playoffs in only a way UNI could. I've covered that Illinois State game before and prefer not to completely rehash it again.


I know ndsu fans have said things like "no wonder the program doesn't win, if the players have the attitude you do" but there's a reason for it.

I'll celebrate a title this year like a Red Sox fan did their WS in 04...minus the rioting...but I try to keep my feelings mostly tempered in that regard. I'll talk a lot when it's going good knowing all too well that it's like ice fishing in March...can pay off huge but likely isn't going to end well

Sent from my S4 using Tapatalk

[achrist70]

Here is my case for UNI (which I know has been made on here already) on a position by position basis

QB: Sawyer needs to be the man, Brion should see the field but not as the starting QB, he can't use the weapons around him the way Sawyer can
RB: David Johnson is the most complete running back in the nation, and there is solid depth behind him with guys like Evan Williams and Tyvis Smith
WR: UNI is loaded at this position and appears to have depth, but that can change like it has the last two year, but with guys like Veeren, Owens, LeMaster, Lintz, Cunningham, and Brown I like this group
TE: Rohr returning is huge, great pass catching TE, Lehman and Rathmacher I see both playing but are more of the blocking type of TE
OL: Rummells, Bingaman, Harris, and Rathje all had a ton of time last year, I think there is going to be some young talent step up and the line will be better than the last couple of year, replacing Kruger won't be easy though
DL: Williams, O'Brien, Ales, McNeil, and McMakin all saw a lot of time last year, some youth will have to step up, but I am excited to see what Bryce Paup coaching this group for a 2nd year will do.
LB: Farley should be back, Busher is solid, Cutkomp I believe was granted another year, solid starters, again the youth is going to have to step up a bit for depth.
DB: Solid and deep, Hall, Feldpausch, Dorleant, Mitchell, Omli, Kilfoy, Young, and Whiting are all very good and I believe that we have had a couple of transfers. I almost wonder if we will go with sort of a 4-2-5
K: Should be solid there with a kid out of Waterloo
P: Hopefully we don't have to punt a ton but we do return our starter, but I expect him to be pushed for his job.

We do have to develop some depth, but the talent is there.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

I want so badly to believe that, I really do but I can point directly to the 2009 season as to why I'm holding back.

07 UNI goes undefeated into the playoffs. The following year that 07 team that had a number of sophs playing gets to the semis. The vast majority of that team returned for 09. Something like 19 total starters. Individual talent like crazy on the field.... The 07 team got done in by Flacco and Flacco alone. That 08 team would have destroyed Montana in the title game had the last 1:42 not been a donkey show that is the epitome of being a UNI fan. The experience ess all over the field

Sounding relatively familiar yet?


That 09 team was the preseason conference favorite and,I believe, a top 3-5 ranking opened with Iowa....again, sounding familiar?

That 09 team went to Iowa City and dominated the Hawkeyes for 59 minutes...then lost as only UNI could...literally the only team to ever lose that way. That team completely and utterly feel apart on and off the field with egos and miss the playoffs in only a way UNI could. I've covered that Illinois State game before and prefer not to completely rehash it again.


I know ndsu fans have said things like "no wonder the program doesn't win, if the players have the attitude you do" but there's a reason for it.

I'll celebrate a title this year like a Red Sox fan did their WS in 04...minus the rioting...but I try to keep my feelings mostly tempered in that regard. I'll talk a lot when it's going good knowing all too well that it's like ice fishing in March...can pay off huge but likely isn't going to end well

Sent from my S4 using Tapatalk

You wouldn't have destroyed **** in the title game just as you never have any other time we've played clenz. You can live in your own fatasy land if you'd like though.

[Red & Black]

Iowa+Hawaii>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Wyoming+anyone on Montana's OOC schedule

The best team Montana faces UNI sees every year in conference...so...that SOS is gone

Dude...no offense, but are you seriously trying to play up Hawaii being on your schedule? No.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[darell1976]

I don't like the way this post is structured. Nor the message I think it is intended to convey.


Damn autocorrect on my phone. I meant to say NDSU could get to the title game but won't win it. I think their 3 year reign of terror in the FCS is over, and it's time for a new champ. Maybe EWU, maybe UNI, maybe Montana. Had to guess 4 months before the first game of the year.

[BisonBacker]

Damn autocorrect on my phone. I meant to say NDSU could get to the title game but won't win it. I think their 3 year reign of terror in the FCS is over, and it's time for a new champ. Maybe EWU, maybe UNI, maybe Montana. Had to guess 4 months before the first game of the year.


Here I just thought it was that un_ education shining through xlolx

[McNeese72]

NDSU - Till someone knocks us off
UNI - Somehow they manage to screw it up every time, I do think they have a chance
EWU- They will be hard to beat with Adams
Others-
Montana
UNH
Maine
Furman
Chatt
SELA
McNesse

Who do you think will take it all in 2014-15?

Huh? What? We can't even get by our first games in the playoffs if we even get there. ;)

[centennial]

Huh? What? We can't even get by our first games in the playoffs if we even get there. ;)
I think you guys have a chance. Are you losing a lot of seniors?

[IBleedYellow]

I want so badly to believe that, I really do but I can point directly to the 2009 season as to why I'm holding back.

07 UNI goes undefeated into the playoffs. The following year that 07 team that had a number of sophs playing gets to the semis. The vast majority of that team returned for 09. Something like 19 total starters. Individual talent like crazy on the field.... The 07 team got done in by Flacco and Flacco alone. That 08 team would have destroyed Montana in the title game had the last 1:42 not been a donkey show that is the epitome of being a UNI fan. The experience ess all over the field

Sounding relatively familiar yet?


That 09 team was the preseason conference favorite and,I believe, a top 3-5 ranking opened with Iowa....again, sounding familiar?

That 09 team went to Iowa City and dominated the Hawkeyes for 59 minutes...then lost as only UNI could...literally the only team to ever lose that way. That team completely and utterly feel apart on and off the field with egos and miss the playoffs in only a way UNI could. I've covered that Illinois State game before and prefer not to completely rehash it again.


I know ndsu fans have said things like "no wonder the program doesn't win, if the players have the attitude you do" but there's a reason for it.

I'll celebrate a title this year like a Red Sox fan did their WS in 04...minus the rioting...but I try to keep my feelings mostly tempered in that regard. I'll talk a lot when it's going good knowing all too well that it's like ice fishing in March...can pay off huge but likely isn't going to end well

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The reason we say this is because we know what the right attitude does to a program. We weren't a winning program until the winning culture/attitude was brought to our school back in the 60's.

[buffalobill]

Damn autocorrect on my phone. I meant to say NDSU could get to the title game but won't win it. I think their 3 year reign of terror in the FCS is over, and it's time for a new champ. Maybe EWU, maybe UNI, maybe Montana. Had to guess 4 months before the first game of the year.
If NDSU gets to the title game and loses it will still be a reign of terror for everyone else.xsmiley_wix

[clenz]

The reason we say this is because we know what the right attitude does to a program. We weren't a winning program until the winning culture/attitude was brought to our school back in the 60's.
Just because one jaded fan (who is also a Twins, Vikings, and Clippers fan) has that attitude doesn't mean the entire program does.

Only a moran would believe that.

[McNeese72]

I think you guys have a chance. Are you losing a lot of seniors?

We lost some good WR's. We have some potential there but they have to prove themselves. We lost a couple of very good running backs but from what I hear the two BCS transfers might be an upgrade. We lost 1 offensive lineman and a couple of DL guys. We lost a couple of LB's and a couple of DB's and I hear they are shifting guys around now to try to get more speed on the field.

Our main loss is at QB. We have four guys vying for the spot but none of them is standing out ahead of the others, yet.

So, we are a big question mark for next season. The final spring scrimmage was actually very boring to photograph. Kelvin Bennett broke a long run early but other than that it was a yawner. Does that mean the defense is good or does it mean the offense sucks. ;)

Edit: It was 3 Wr's but one didn't play much. And it was 3 good DB's. And a place kicker but we have that covered.

[buffalobill]

Just because one jaded fan (who is also a Twins, Vikings, and Clippers fan) has that attitude doesn't mean the entire program does.

Only a moran would believe that.

What is a moran? (sic) A UNI honor student!:) No that would be the correct spelling!

[clenz]

What is a moran? A UNI honor student!:)

And only a moran wouldn't understand a decade old reference

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[clenz]

http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/get-a-brain-morans

[buffalobill]

UNI would be one of the favorites to win it all next year.

[BEAR]

We lost ALL OF OUR WR's. We have NO potential there but they have to prove themselves. We lost ALL OUR very good running backs but from what I hear the two BCS transfers might be an upgrade, BUT WE DOUBT IT. We lost ALL offensive lineman and a ALL DL guys. We lost ALL LB's and ALL DB's and I hear they are shifting guys around now to try to get more speed on the field.

Our main loss is at QB. We have four RIGHT TACKLES vying for the spot but none of them is standing out ahead of the others, yet.

So, we are a big question mark for next season. The final spring scrimmage was actually very boring to photograph. Kelvin Bennett broke a long run early but RAN THE WRONG WAY. Does that mean the defense is BAD or does it mean the offense sucks. ;)

Edit: It was 6 Wr's but one didn't play much. And it was 6 good DB's. And a place kicker but we have that covered WITH A CHEERLEADER.

FIFY. SANDBAG DEPLOYED.

[McNeese72]

FIFY. SANDBAG DEPLOYED.

xthumbsupx xthumbsupx

You have to ease into it. You need to be subtle this time of year, increase it gradually during preseason workouts, and then go into full mode when the season starts.

Doc
Named the Sandbag King in 1995 by the gang on the old AOL Div I-AA messageboard.

But really, I don't think we will have much of an offense and that was making our defense look better in the spring. :)

[WM2001]

Bunch of mid-country homers on here. A CAA team will win it. UR, WM, or TU is my pick to beat someone from the frozen tundra.

[bkrownd]

This is finally Austin Peay's year! Go...um...Fighting Peas!

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Bunch of mid-country homers on here. A CAA team will win it. UR, WM, or TU is my pick to beat someone from the frozen tundra.



I'll take a Valley team (UNI or NDSU) over anyone in the CAA this year.

[Bisonator]

Bunch of mid-country homers on here. A CAA team will win it. UR, WM, or TU is my pick to beat someone from the frozen tundra.

Mid Country Bias > East Coast Bias

:D

[Gil Dobie]

Bunch of mid-country homers on here. A CAA team will win it. UR, WM, or TU is my pick to beat someone from the frozen tundra.

That's so 2009

[Yotes]

Go mid-country!

[frozennorth]

if NDSU can find a third and fourth interior lineman and Wentz is as advertised I expect a repeat of last year.

[Lehigh'98]

Villanova, W&M, Fordham, Misery St. , Illinois St will all be serious contenders this year.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

I said this earlier in another thread but IMO, Furman is going to be a very good team this year.....probably NC contender.

They had the best defense of all the playoff teams the Bison saw last year and they were young/athletic. I think they win the SoCon and get a top 4 seed.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Villanova, W&M, Fordham, Misery St. , Illinois St will all be serious contenders this year.


Agree with the 1st three but MSU and Ill State?

Maybe, but they have a ways to go.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I said this earlier in another thread but IMO, Furman is going to be a very good team this year.....probably NC contender.

They had the best defense of all the playoff teams the Bison saw last year and they were young/athletic. I think they win the SoCon and get a top 4 seed.

Everybody poo poos it (including me) but losing ASU and GSU is going to take the rigor out of the SoCon. I'll have to see it to believe it.

[citdog]

Everybody poo poos it (including me) but losing ASU and GSU is going to take the rigor out of the SoCon. I'll have to see it to believe it.

Because Greenville, Spartanburg, Charleston, and Birmingham are such EASY places to go and get a W at. We'll be fine. I don't even remember who you're talking about.

- - - Updated - - -


I said this earlier in another thread but IMO, Furman is going to be a very good team this year.....probably NC contender.

They had the best defense of all the playoff teams the Bison saw last year and they were young/athletic. I think they win the SoCon and get a top 4 seed.

furman sucks

[DJKyR0]

I will go with someone but NDSU will win the NC. NDSU may get there but not win it. No team will 4 peat.


Considering the above is coming from a guy who thought UN_ would do this:


North Dakota

vs Valparaiso = W- Should be a blowout as Valpo is picked last in their conference

vs South Dakota State= W- UND in front of a huge crowd as it is the Potato Bowl will have home field advantage.

vs Montana=W- UND beat Montana with a horrible defense last season and racked up 660 yards passing on their defense. UND has a new DC and the same WR's facing the Griz.

vs Montana St= W- I am going with UND in this one because UND will be coming off of a bye week so all the players will be well rested, plus dome field advantage

@ Idaho St= W- UND beat ISU in our first year of DI in 2008 they should be able to get it done again.

vs EWU= L- If UND has to lose a home game it will be this one. if our QB's are top notch form UND wins or else the Eagles take it.

@ PSU=W- UND passed all over the place on PSU last season with our backup QB, I think UND takes this in a close one.

vs Sac St=W- UND's D actually played well at Sac St last season and beat them, no problem beating them in the dome.

@ NAU=L- Last time UND played at NAU they got thumped in the 1980's, this time closer game but NAU takes it.

vs UNC=W- UND struggles historically in Greeley but should find a way to win at home.

@ UC Davis=W- UND beat UC Davis its last time out there and should do it again, as UC Davis seems to have problems as of late.

9-2 thanks to 7 home games and a weak road schedule (except NAU). It all depends on two things....Defense, and our RFr QB's.

Playoff bound!!!!!!!

...I trust that pretty much the exact opposite will happen when _arell makes a football prognostication. Fortunately for NDSU, this means four-peat.

[Bisonator]

Considering the above is coming from a guy who thought UN_ would do this:



...I trust that pretty much the exact opposite will happen when _arell makes a football prognostication. Fortunately for NDSU, this means four-peat.

xlolx

Thanks for resurrecting that post! xlolx

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Because Greenville, Spartanburg, Charleston, and Birmingham are such EASY places to go and get a W at. We'll be fine. I don't even remember who you're talking about.

- - - Updated - - -



furman sucks



Well that team beat The Citadel last year 24-17 and they played the Bison tough. I don't remember El Cid making the playoffs last year....xcoffeex

[citdog]

Well that team beat The Citadel last year 24-17 and they played the Bison tough. I don't remember El Cid making the playoffs last year....xcoffeex

furman sucks


even when they win

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

furman sucks


even when they win


IMO, they will win the SoCon this year. What I saw in Fargo last year was a young, athletic team that will only get better.

[citdog]

IMO, they will win the SoCon this year. What I saw in Fargo last year was a young, athletic team that will only get better.

They will NOT win in Charleston. The 'Dogs will be THRUSTING in '14.

[Tribal]

Youngstown State or the second most balanced team last season, SE LA. Maybe McNeese State if they can improve their defense while maintaining a top 10 offense and W&M is a strong contender if we find a QB and he stays healthy.

[clenz]

Youngstown State

http://youtu.be/WEtRoZ5FWNc

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[saxbison]

http://youtu.be/WEtRoZ5FWNc


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n5E7feJHw0

[BisonFan02]

http://youtu.be/WEtRoZ5FWNc

Sent from my S4 using Tapatalk


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n5E7feJHw0

Haha...this and this. If anything, YSU regresses from last season.

[Red & Black]

Well, I'd like to say this is the year we'll get back to the chipper but after two straight years of losing in the semi's who knows. I still think we have as good a chance as anyone.

Other than EWU, I'd say NDSU from the MVFC, Furman from the SOCON, SELA from the Southland, and Vanilla since I have to pick a CAA team.


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[slostang]

If Cal Poly can settle on one QB and get good production from that position I really think they can be a very dangerous team and might be able to make a deep run.

[chattownmocs]

So Furman is mentioned consistently as national title contender because they "Only" lost by 4 tds in Fargo. WTF. They really aren't all that athletic or talented or good. They really had no business being in the playoffs last year other than the dumb socon tie break rules. I really don't see anywhere that they are elite and overall they are no national title contender unless the rest of the country is pretty bad.

[Tribe4SF]

If Cal Poly can settle on one QB and get good production from that position I really think they can be a very dangerous team and might be able to make a deep run.

Same for W&M. Everything in place except QB. Have to survive usual CAA meat grinder, though. Look for six or seven teams to be in the mix.

[Tribe4SF]

So Furman is mentioned consistently as national title contender because they "Only" lost by 4 tds in Fargo. WTF. They really aren't all that athletic or talented or good. They really had no business being in the playoffs last year other than the dumb socon tie break rules. I really don't see anywhere that they are elite and overall they are no national title contender unless the rest of the country is pretty bad.

Like Richmond, they showed enough at the end of last season to be in the conversation.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

So Furman is mentioned consistently as national title contender because they "Only" lost by 4 tds in Fargo. WTF. They really aren't all that athletic or talented or good. They really had no business being in the playoffs last year other than the dumb socon tie break rules. I really don't see anywhere that they are elite and overall they are no national title contender unless the rest of the country is pretty bad.


Really?

Young teams tend to keep improving.

We'll see in '14 wont we.....xnodx

[Cocky]

Really? Two guys I believe from SEC that may contribute this season. Looking forward to the trip to Chattanooga the week after we warm up with Michigan State.
I'll take what we have coming back (which is about everyone) and play anyone in the country.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Haha...this and this. If anything, YSU regresses from last season.


This here.

YSU will be a mid pack team in the Valley this year.

[chattownmocs]

I think Jacksonville State should have played Furman in "the battle of the pretenders"

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

I think Jacksonville State should have played Furman in "the battle of the pretenders"


Both of those 'pretenders' made the playoffs last year and will be playoff contenders this year also.

[PaladinFan]

So Furman is mentioned consistently as national title contender because they "Only" lost by 4 tds in Fargo. WTF. They really aren't all that athletic or talented or good. They really had no business being in the playoffs last year other than the dumb socon tie break rules. I really don't see anywhere that they are elite and overall they are no national title contender unless the rest of the country is pretty bad.

It is probably premature to have them as a title contender, but I think Furman will easily be a top 15 team. I think the reason they get noticed is they in fact did give NDSU a tough game for a half, which is significantly longer than any other team managed in the playoffs.

You're hyperbole is lost on everyone. Furman is athletic, talented, and good. They return virtually the entire team on both sides of the ball as well as all key backups. This is as deep a team that Furman has had in 10 years. Remember, a crippled Furman team took the field against UTC last season. They played with a fourth string true freshman quarterback who has now been moved to TE.

I still don't understand your beef. The tiebreaker rules are what they are. You had three teams with the exact same record that were all 1-1 against one another. How would you decide it? At the end of the day, Furman handled its business and UTC simply didn't. If there are any fingers to be pointed, it is at your football team, not the conference. The rules are the same for everyone.

[clenz]

This here.

YSU will be a mid pack team in the Valley this year.

That's all they ever are

Sent from my S4 using Tapatalk

[chattownmocs]

It is probably premature to have them as a title contender, but I think Furman will easily be a top 15 team. I think the reason they get noticed is they in fact did give NDSU a tough game for a half, which is significantly longer than any other team managed in the playoffs.

You're hyperbole is lost on everyone. Furman is athletic, talented, and good. They return virtually the entire team on both sides of the ball as well as all key backups. This is as deep a team that Furman has had in 10 years. Remember, a crippled Furman team took the field against UTC last season. They played with a fourth string true freshman quarterback who has now been moved to TE.

I still don't understand your beef. The tiebreaker rules are what they are. You had three teams with the exact same record that were all 1-1 against one another. How would you decide it? At the end of the day, Furman handled its business and UTC simply didn't. If there are any fingers to be pointed, it is at your football team, not the conference. The rules are the same for everyone.

How do you return everyone when you lost your best player? You also lost one of your top running backs, at least a few defensive starters and possibly more than just Dozier on the Oline. Where exactly is Furman elite? What is going propel Furman to a national title? Trust me, I remember last year's game well. Yes, your QB was hurt, but it wasn't even a very big game, because Furman wasn't a very good team. It wasn't a game in which Chattanooga would have been in much trouble in regardless. And its not like Furman's offensive woes against Chattanooga started last year, they go back several years. As far as "taking care of business" It one thing to say Chattanooga didn't, to say Furman did is utterly ridiculous. Maybe the socon should use margin of victory or something, maybe Furman would have still won it but at least it wouldn't be because they beat the 4th or 5th team in the conference.

[OL FU]

It is probably premature to have them as a title contender, but I think Furman will easily be a top 15 team. I think the reason they get noticed is they in fact did give NDSU a tough game for a half, which is significantly longer than any other team managed in the playoffs.

You're hyperbole is lost on everyone. Furman is athletic, talented, and good. They return virtually the entire team on both sides of the ball as well as all key backups. This is as deep a team that Furman has had in 10 years. Remember, a crippled Furman team took the field against UTC last season. They played with a fourth string true freshman quarterback who has now been moved to TE.

I still don't understand your beef. The tiebreaker rules are what they are. You had three teams with the exact same record that were all 1-1 against one another. How would you decide it? At the end of the day, Furman handled its business and UTC simply didn't. If there are any fingers to be pointed, it is at your football team, not the conference. The rules are the same for everyone.

I certainly agree with the first statement. We were a different team at the end of the year than the first. There were still enough reasons from last year to be both optimistic and cautious. I think it is certainly early to call us contenders for the championship but we well could be. After all we have been in that position before (even if it was a while ago) unlike some schools.:D

I also think that ending the regular season against the Mocs shows that someone in the SoCon had some really good scheduling foresight.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

That's all they ever are

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No argument here. I think the 3 game slide at the end of the year and missing the playoffs will have residual effects this season. I think the top 4 in the Valley this year are:

UNI
NDSU
SDSU
Ill State/SIU

[Sir William]

Furman...WTF. They really aren't all that athletic or talented or good...had no business being in the playoffs last year...

Chattanooga...one FCS playoff appearance all-time...1984, 37-10 first-round loss.

Now what were you yappin' about? I had a hard time hearing you over the roar of your historical mediocrity.

[chattownmocs]

Chattanooga...one FCS playoff appearance all-time...1984, 37-10 first-round loss.

Now what were you yappin' about? I had a hard time hearing you over the roar of your historical mediocrity.


Your current mediocrity is what has me "yappin."

[OL FU]

Your current mediocrity is what has me "yappin."


Strictly from my recollection, most things have you yappin':p:)

[clenz]

No argument here. I think the 3 game slide at the end of the year and missing the playoffs will have residual effects this season. I think the top 4 in the Valley this year are:

UNI
NDSU
SDSU
Ill State/SIU
Couple that with the less of Hess - we saw what they looked like without him last season - and I see no reason to put them above 5th or 6th in the conference...especially not the nation.

Though, in reality, 5th or 6th in the MVFC is between 20-30/35 in the nation.

[PaladinFan]

How do you return everyone when you lost your best player? You also lost one of your top running backs, at least a few defensive starters and possibly more than just Dozier on the Oline. Where exactly is Furman elite? What is going propel Furman to a national title? Trust me, I remember last year's game well. Yes, your QB was hurt, but it wasn't even a very big game, because Furman wasn't a very good team. It wasn't a game in which Chattanooga would have been in much trouble in regardless. And its not like Furman's offensive woes against Chattanooga started last year, they go back several years. As far as "taking care of business" It one thing to say Chattanooga didn't, to say Furman did is utterly ridiculous. Maybe the socon should use margin of victory or something, maybe Furman would have still won it but at least it wouldn't be because they beat the 4th or 5th team in the conference.

Let's be specific. I said Furman returns virtually everybody. We lose starters at LT, TE, WR, S, CB, and our K/P. We return 17 starters, 48 letter winners, and all backups. Yes, Dozier is gone, but Furman rotated a lot of linemen this year. There are a number of options for our lineup, including several versatile players that plays a number of positions along the line.

It wasn't a big game because Furman was not very good. Furman was 2-3 and likely should have been 1-4. They had just lost to the conference's worst team in Elon, they were decimated by injuries, they had reserves all over the field and numerous players out of position. Quite literally, they were a skeleton crew on both sides of the ball.

You ignore a critical facts. After the UTC game Furman got Hannon back. They got healthy. They started to steamroll the conference. The only SoCon team in the second half of the season that stayed within a touchdown of the Paladins was Georgia Southern (at home, no less). Furman routed Samford the week before UTC lost in Birmingham.

If you don't like the tie breaker, write your congressman. UTC had their chance to punch their ticket. They flopped.

[PaladinFan]

Your current mediocrity is what has me "yappin."

Furman coming off its worst season in 20 years still made the playoffs over a UTC team coming off their best season in 20 years. Who is mediocre?

[Bisonator]

Your current mediocrity is what has me "yappin."

Don't you have your own personal thread to go to throughout the year to do your yappin? And the rest of us can do our xlolx

[IBleedYellow]

The season hasn't even started yet and we already have CTM doing this.

http://blog.ndulge.net/files/2013/04/oh-boy.gif

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Your current mediocrity is what has me "yappin."

Your current mediocrity has you yappin, usually incorrectly.

[Canyoncat]

I would love to say Montana State, but we have way too many questions going into the season. Number one on who is going to play QB and number 2 who is actually going to be able to play? We were decimated with injuries this spring. Those who will still be standing by the time fall arrives is who we will go with and hope for the best. Might be a rough year in Bozeman.

[centennial]

I would love to say Montana State, but we have way too many questions going into the season. Number one on who is going to play QB and number 2 who is actually going to be able to play? We were decimated with injuries this spring. Those who will still be standing by the time fall arrives is who we will go with and hope for the best. Might be a rough year in Bozeman.
I think no one is expecting Montana State to win the NC here. I would be surprised if Big Sky gets 4 teams in this year, Montana State could possibly be 3-4 Big Sky at best.

[Canyoncat]

I think no one is expecting Montana State to win the NC here. I would be surprised if Big Sky gets 4 teams in this year, Montana State could possibly be 3-4 Big Sky at best.

Which is why I said "I would love to say Montana State". I realize nobody on here thinks we can go on and win the NC not even me. If MSU is able to pull out 8 wins, the Cats are probably going to the playoffs, but on the road. If we are able to pull off 9 wins then we are at home for the first round.

[BisonFan02]

Which is why I said "I would love to say Montana State". I realize nobody on here thinks we can go on and win the NC not even me. If MSU is able to pull out 8 wins, the Cats are probably going to the playoffs, but on the road. If we are able to pull off 9 wins then we are at home for the first round.

http://media2.giphy.com/media/dFA067Ki8grsc/giphy.gif

Sorry.....had to. :D

[IBleedYellow]

Rabble rabble, big sky sucks, rabble rabble, Valley is the best. Rabble rabble.

*circlejerking intensifies*

[BisonFan02]

Rabble rabble, big sky sucks, rabble rabble, Valley is the best. Rabble rabble.

*circlejerking intensifies*

We all know that you want to be a Big Sky fan and #chuckthepigskin....its okay...we get it. :D

[centennial]

We all know that you want to be a Big Sky fan and #chuckthepigskin....its okay...we get it. :D
I think he is doing the job of Griz fans calling MSU chokers. Also MVFC>Big Sky.

[Red & Black]

I think he is doing the job of Griz fans calling MSU chokers. Also MVFC>Big Sky.

HTH competition in the playoffs the past 4 years doesn't suggest that.


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[344Johnson]

HTH competition in the playoffs the past 4 years doesn't suggest that.


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Not NDSU's fault you folks can't seem to make it far enough to play us.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

Not NDSU's fault you folks can't seem to make it far enough to play us.

We'll have to settle for keeping the greatest, toughest, meat grinder, never an easy game, any team in the MVFC would finish in the top two in any other conference, conference teams from getting to play you as well.

NDSU was at a different level and that is what I've said the last few years. The rest of the MVFC teams ain't a cut above and have found that out...no matter what they say before and after the game.

[Bisonator]

We'll have to settle for keeping the greatest, toughest, meat grinder, never an easy game, any team in the MVFC would finish in the top two in any other conference, conference teams from getting to play you as well.

NDSU was at a different level and that is what I've said the last few years. The rest of the MVFC teams ain't a cut above and have found that out...no matter what they say before and after the game.

And aside from EWU the BSC hasn't been all that either.xcoffeex

[Bisonator]

How many HTH playoff games between MVFC and BSC teams have been played at the MVFC teams stadium? Home field is pretty big advantage.

[Red & Black]

Not NDSU's fault you folks can't seem to make it far enough to play us.

Very true, although I'd offer that EWU's offensive style would have given NDSU's defense a better challenge both in 2012 and 2013. That said, teams from the Big Sky have played other teams from the MVFC in the playoffs in recent years.

2013 - EWU 41, South Dakota State 17
2012 - EWU 51, Illinois State 35
2011 - Montana 48, UNI 10
2010 - EWU 38, NDSU 31...also NDSU 42, MSU 17
2009 - Montana 61, South Dakota State 48

I may be missing a game, but in the past 5 years, that's a 5-1 overall record for the Big Sky versus the MVFC in head to head competition in the playoffs. EWU is 3-0 and Montana is 2-0 versus the MVFC in that stretch.

In two of the above instances, the MVFC teams were beaten badly (SDSU in '13 and UNI in '11). I agree that homefield advantage plays a part, but not to the tune of 24-38 points. NDSU has also been the benficiary of homefield advantage in every playoff game since 2011 - does that make their wins against anyone they've played during that time any less valid? I would say no...that is how you are rewarded for taking care of a business during the regular season, and any team from the Big Sky, MVFC, CAA, that goes through their conference undefeated should get that.

I'm not illustrating this to gloat, just trying to figure out why many MVFC fans constantly try to tout their conference as somehow superior to the Big Sky, when the HTH clearly indicates that's not the case. I get the Massey and Sagarin ratings, but that is a cummulative representation of a 13 member conference where not every team plays each other every year.

[marenlee]

Very true, although I'd offer that EWU's offensive style would have given NDSU's defense a better challenge both in 2012 and 2013. That said, teams from the Big Sky have played other teams from the MVFC in the playoffs in recent years.

2013 - EWU 41, South Dakota State 17
2012 - EWU 51, Illinois State 35
2011 - Montana 48, UNI 10
2010 - EWU 38, NDSU 31...also NDSU 42, MSU 17
2009 - Montana 61, South Dakota State 48

I may be missing a game, but in the past 5 years, that's a 5-1 overall record for the Big Sky versus the MVFC in head to head competition in the playoffs. EWU is 3-0 and Montana is 2-0 versus the MVFC in that stretch.

In two of the above instances, the MVFC teams were beaten badly (SDSU in '13 and UNI in '11). I agree that homefield advantage plays a part, but not to the tune of 24-38 points. NDSU has also been the benficiary of homefield advantage in every playoff game since 2011 - does that make their wins against anyone they've played during that time any less valid? I would say no...that is how you are rewarded for taking care of a business during the regular season, and any team from the Big Sky, MVFC, CAA, that goes through their conference undefeated should get that.

I'm not illustrating this to gloat, just trying to figure out why many MVFC fans constantly try to tout their conference as somehow superior to the Big Sky, when the HTH clearly indicates that's not the case. I get the Massey and Sagarin ratings, but that is a cummulative representation of a 13 member conference where not every team plays each other every year.

Kinda hard to dispute that. However you are missing South Dakota State over Northern Arizona last year 26-7

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Very true, although I'd offer that EWU's offensive style would have given NDSU's defense a better challenge both in 2012 and 2013. That said, teams from the Big Sky have played other teams from the MVFC in the playoffs in recent years.

2013 - EWU 41, South Dakota State 17
2012 - EWU 51, Illinois State 35
2011 - Montana 48, UNI 10
2010 - EWU 38, NDSU 31...also NDSU 42, MSU 17
2009 - Montana 61, South Dakota State 48

I may be missing a game, but in the past 5 years, that's a 5-1 overall record for the Big Sky versus the MVFC in head to head competition in the playoffs. EWU is 3-0 and Montana is 2-0 versus the MVFC in that stretch.

In two of the above instances, the MVFC teams were beaten badly (SDSU in '13 and UNI in '11). I agree that homefield advantage plays a part, but not to the tune of 24-38 points. NDSU has also been the benficiary of homefield advantage in every playoff game since 2011 - does that make their wins against anyone they've played during that time any less valid? I would say no...that is how you are rewarded for taking care of a business during the regular season, and any team from the Big Sky, MVFC, CAA, that goes through their conference undefeated should get that.

I'm not illustrating this to gloat, just trying to figure out why many MVFC fans constantly try to tout their conference as somehow superior to the Big Sky, when the HTH clearly indicates that's not the case. I get the Massey and Sagarin ratings, but that is a cummulative representation of a 13 member conference where not every team plays each other every year.


BSC has had better success against the Valley from these scores.

In reference to your comment on EWU's style vs NDSU...IMO, it wouldn't have been any different. In last year's playoffs, Towson ran pretty effectively against EWU in their playoff game. NDSU pretty much shut down Towson except when the 2nds were in at the end of the game. Maybe in '12 EWU would have played the Bison tough but not this year. An NDSU/EWU championship game this last year would have had the same outcome/score as the Towson game. That's not a slight to EWU but NDSU was head/shoulders above everyone in the FCS (ex a healthy UNI) last year.

NDSU plays two BSC teams this year Weber and Montana.

[Red & Black]

Kinda hard to dispute that. However you are missing South Dakota State over Northern Arizona last year 26-7

Knew I was missing one, thanks. So 5-2 during that stretch.


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[Red & Black]

BSC has had better success against the Valley from these scores.

In reference to your comment on EWU's style vs NDSU...IMO, it wouldn't have been any different. In last year's playoffs, Towson ran pretty effectively against EWU in their playoff game. NDSU pretty much shut down Towson except when the 2nds were in at the end of the game. Maybe in '12 EWU would have played the Bison tough but not this year. An NDSU/EWU championship game this last year would have had the same outcome/score as the Towson game. That's not a slight to EWU but NDSU was head/shoulders above everyone in the FCS (ex a healthy UNI) last year.

NDSU plays two BSC teams this year Weber and Montana.

Oh, I don't necessarily think the outcome would have been different had we beaten Towson, I just think it would've NDSU's defense more of a challenge. Towson was a bit one-dimensional offensively. Still beat us, though.

NDSU will beat Weber State by 30+ points most likely (sorry Wildcat fans). I actually think the game against Montana could be a very good game.


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[Bison Fan in NW MN]

^^^^^

I'm looking forward to the Montana game and watching JJ in person. If he can play like he did in '12 then the Griz are a NC contender for sure. Very good FCS match up in this game.

For the Bison it will come down to Wentz (QB) in '14. The defense is going to be very good again and the running game will be there. The O-line lost two starters and another that had to give up FB because of injuries but the back ups are very capable and I have no worries with that unit. The Bison will be good and if Wentz plays up to his capability then they will be a NC contender.

Even though I don't like writing this sentence, EWU will be a strong favorite to win the NC this year. The only thing that will hamper their title chances IMO is their defense. EWU will be able to score points no doubt but if they run into a team that can control the clock (like NDSU) and play good defense then they are in trouble. Problem is that there are not many teams that play very good defense. Looking at EWU's schedule is looks pretty favorable. Montana, SHSU at home. Washington will be a tough one on the road but other than that I see a 10 or 11 win season and probable top 4 seed.

I'm hoping for a EWU/NDSU match up this year. NDSU returns 3 DBs and all 3 LBers that played in the NC....see how they would match up against VA.

[catamount man]

Coastal wins it all in 2014.

[frozennorth]

Knew I was missing one, thanks. So 5-2 during that stretch.


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5-2 as the home team every time, and in every case the top seed from the big sky against the 2 or 3 seed from the valley. The top of both conferences are pretty comparable, but the middle and bottom of the sky are weaker.

[IBleedYellow]

Welp, My last post did exactly what I was expecting. xlolx

[clenz]

http://instapage-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/ac7556/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/landing-page-templates-hook-e1332976799879.jpg

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Very true, although I'd offer that EWU's offensive style would have given NDSU's defense a better challenge both in 2012 and 2013. That said, teams from the Big Sky have played other teams from the MVFC in the playoffs in recent years.

2013 - EWU 41, South Dakota State 17
2012 - EWU 51, Illinois State 35
2011 - Montana 48, UNI 10
2010 - EWU 38, NDSU 31...also NDSU 42, MSU 17
2009 - Montana 61, South Dakota State 48

I may be missing a game, but in the past 5 years, that's a 5-1 overall record for the Big Sky versus the MVFC in head to head competition in the playoffs. EWU is 3-0 and Montana is 2-0 versus the MVFC in that stretch.

In two of the above instances, the MVFC teams were beaten badly (SDSU in '13 and UNI in '11). I agree that homefield advantage plays a part, but not to the tune of 24-38 points. NDSU has also been the benficiary of homefield advantage in every playoff game since 2011 - does that make their wins against anyone they've played during that time any less valid? I would say no...that is how you are rewarded for taking care of a business during the regular season, and any team from the Big Sky, MVFC, CAA, that goes through their conference undefeated should get that.

I'm not illustrating this to gloat, just trying to figure out why many MVFC fans constantly try to tout their conference as somehow superior to the Big Sky, when the HTH clearly indicates that's not the case. I get the Massey and Sagarin ratings, but that is a cummulative representation of a 13 member conference where not every team plays each other every year.

You'll notice that your sample size for the BSC is 15% of the league whereas the MVFC sample is 50% of the league.

You have a much more precipitous drop off and a larger pool of mediocrity in the BSC.

[clenz]

Some fun from a sheet I'm working on for the site...

Playoff W/Lhrough 2013

Alphabetical



Win
Loss
Total
%
Years


American West
0
0
0
N/A
17


Big Sky
79
67
146
54.11%
35


Big South
5
6
11
45.45%
35


Colonial
85
81
166
51.20%
12


Great West
1
2
3
33.33%
28


Gulf Star
0
0
0
N/A
24


Independant
64
45
109
58.72%
4


Ivy
Ab
Ab
Ab
Ab
4


Metro Atlantic
0
0
0
N/A
32


Mid-Continent
1

1
100.00%
21


Mid-Eastern
8
30
38
21.05%
4


Missouri Valley
67
51
118
56.78%
9


Northeast
1
4
5
20.00%
35


Ohio Valley
27
53
80
33.75%
Abst.


Patriot
10
22
32
31.25%
15


Pioneer
0
1
1
0.00%
32


Southern
100
63
163
61.35%
35


Southland
52
55
107
48.60%
35


Southwestern
0
18
18
0.00%
19



By Wins



Win
Loss
Total
%
Years


Southern
100
63
163
61.35%
32


Colonial
85
81
166
51.20%
35


Big Sky
79
67
146
54.11%
35


Missouri Valley
67
51
118
56.78%
28


Independant
64
45
109
58.72%
35


Southland
52
55
107
48.60%
32


Ohio Valley
27
53
80
33.75%
35


Patriot
10
22
32
31.25%
17


Mid-Eastern
8
30
38
21.05%
35


Big South
5
6
11
45.45%
12


Great West
1
2
3
33.33%
9


Northeast
1
4
5
20.00%
21


American West
0
0
0
N/A
4


Gulf Star
0
0
0
N/A
4


Metro Atlantic
0
0
0
N/A
15


Pioneer
0
1
1
0.00%
24


Southwestern
0
18
18
0.00%
19


Ivy
Ab
Ab
Ab
Ab
Abst.


Mid-Continent
***
***
***
0.00%
4




By Win %



Win
Loss
Total
%
Years


Southern
100
63
163
61.35%
32


Independant
64
45
109
58.72%
35


Missouri Valley
67
51
118
56.78%
28


Big Sky
79
67
146
54.11%
35


Colonial
85
81
166
51.20%
35


Southland
52
55
107
48.60%
32


Big South
5
6
11
45.45%
12


Ohio Valley
27
53
80
33.75%
35


Great West
1
2
3
33.33%
9


Patriot
10
22
32
31.25%
17


Mid-Eastern
8
30
38
21.05%
35


Northeast
1
4
5
20.00%
21


Pioneer
0
1
1
0.00%
24


Southwestern
0
18
18
0.00%
19


Mid-Continent
***
***
***
0.00%
4


American West
0
0
0
N/A
4


Gulf Star
0
0
0
N/A
4


Metro Atlantic
0
0
0
N/A
15


Ivy
Ab
Ab
Ab
Ab
Abst.

[Red & Black]

You'll notice that your sample size for the BSC is 15% of the league whereas the MVFC sample is 50% of the league.

You have a much more precipitous drop off and a larger pool of mediocrity in the BSC.

I had left out the NAU/SDSU game from this year, but either way 4/13 does not equal 15%. For whatever reason many of the playoff teams that come out of the BSC get paired with teams from the Southland.

As for mediocre teams, the Big Sky has more mediocre teams because it's a bigger conference. As I've stated before in other threads, it's kind of relative because you're typically not playing UNC, ISU, Weber, et al. in the same season.

Another comparison might be number of different National Semi-finalists during that period. The Big Sky has had one in each of the past 5 years, with two different teams playing in the NC during that time.

Outside of NDSU, nobody else has really done anything of note in the playoffs recently. If you're talking about superior depth in a conference it would be logical to assume that more than just one team would be having some recent success.


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[Red & Black]

5-2 as the home team every time, and in every case the top seed from the big sky against the 2 or 3 seed from the valley. The top of both conferences are pretty comparable, but the middle and bottom of the sky are weaker.

NDSU has been the Top seed and has had home field advantage in every playoff game the past three seasons. I guess we should dismiss that?

If the #2 or #3 team from the Big Sky had had to make a trip to Fargo during that time, would you be making the same argument? Why is home field advantage in the playoffs ok for NDSU, but not for EWU, Montana, or MSU?

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[clenz]

I had left out the NAU/SDSU game from this year, but either way 4/13 does not equal 15%. For whatever reason many of the playoff teams that come out of the BSC get paired with teams from the Southland.

As for mediocre teams, the Big Sky has more mediocre teams because it's a bigger conference. As I've stated before in other threads, it's kind of relative because you're typically not playing UNC, ISU, Weber, et al. in the same season.

Another comparison might be number of different National Semi-finalists during that period. The Big Sky has had one in each of the past 5 years, with two different teams playing in the NC during that time.

Outside of NDSU, nobody else has really done anything of note in the playoffs recently. If you're talking about superior depth in a conference it would be logical to assume that more than just one team would be having some recent success.


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkThe Big Sky also averages more teams in the playoffs than the MVFC - more chances to get to the semi's.

The CAA can brag about all of their semi finals as well - but they average just under 4 teams in the field per year since 2000. They are bound to have teams advance further.

As far as getting matched up with the SLC...I'd take that over getting matched up with the CAA (see the Gateway/MVFC) prior to NDSU/SDSU shifting the playoffs west. Everyone else is still going to get thrown east for the MVFC.

Drawing the SLC is a HUGE advantage for the Big Sky..prior to SHSUs little run the SLC had 7 total playoff wins since the turn of the century and have a 48% all time playoff win %

the MVFC has 7 less years of existence and 20 less bids..yet the MVFC has just 2 less titles (and that's not counting SIUs 1983 title), just 12 less wins and a better win%

[Bisonator]

NDSU has been the Top seed and has had home field advantage in every playoff game the past three seasons. I guess we should dismiss that?

If the #2 or #3 team from the Big Sky had had to make a trip to Fargo during that time, would you be making the same argument? Why is home field advantage in the playoffs ok for NDSU, but not for EWU, Montana, or MSU?

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No one is saying that. We are simply stating the obvious which is home field is a huge advantage and most of the HTH matchups between the MVFC and BSC have favored the BSC. Had a few of those been at the MVFC stadiums the outcomes may have been different. Trust me as an NDSU fan I know how important home field is come PO time.

[centennial]

No one is saying that. We are simply stating the obvious which is home field is a huge advantage and most of the HTH matchups between the MVFC and BSC have favored the BSC. Had a few of those been at the MVFC stadiums the outcomes may have been different. Trust me as an NDSU fan I know how important home field is come PO time.
The whole comparison is a sham and its just statistical manipulation. Let's see MVFC vs Big Sky in the last 5, 10 years. Outside of EWU and Montana which Big Sky teams give MVFC trouble? And it completely ignores the fact that Massey and Sagarin rate the MVFC higher top 5 and otherwise. This does not include that the strongest league in FCS gets 2-3 teams, while the CAA gets 5 when they are strong, and Big Sky gets 4 even when they aren't even top 5 FCS. The whole thing just smells of nepotism and corruption in the playoff selection committee.

[Red & Black]

The whole comparison is a sham and its just statistical manipulation. Let's see MVFC vs Big Sky in the last 5, 10 years. Outside of EWU and Montana which Big Sky teams give MVFC trouble? And it completely ignores the fact that Massey and Sagarin rate the MVFC higher top 5 and otherwise. This does not include that the strongest league in FCS gets 2-3 teams, while the CAA gets 5 when they are strong, and Big Sky gets 4 even when they aren't even top 5 FCS. The whole thing just smells of nepotism and corruption in the playoff selection committee.

Your rhetoric is really better suited for a homer site. If you truly believe that the Big Sky is not one of the top 5 conferences in the FCS, then you are clearly showing your ignorance of FCS football.

You can continue to cite Massey and Sagarin - we start citing intangible when we don't have a compelling argument. I'll continue to cite HTH competition in the playoffs, which is a much more significant comparison, IMO. Prior to league expansion, the Big Sky was consistently ranked in the top 1-3 in all of the various rankings every year - before we only had ISU and Weber State dragging our GPI down. Now it's UNC, UC-Davis, and North Dakota as well. The top 4-5 teams in the Big Sky (for argument's sake, let's say EWU, UM, Cal Poly, MSU, NAU) compare very favorably to the top 4-5 in the MVFC.

[Red & Black]

No one is saying that. We are simply stating the obvious which is home field is a huge advantage and most of the HTH matchups between the MVFC and BSC have favored the BSC. Had a few of those been at the MVFC stadiums the outcomes may have been different. Trust me as an NDSU fan I know how important home field is come PO time.

It is absolutely an obvious point, but I don't really see how it's relevant to what we are discussing, considering anyone could make the same argument for any team at any time. For instance, I could say that NDSU perhaps would not have had the same level of success in the playoffs the past three years had they not had the (seemingly overwhelming) advantage of playing every single playoff game at home. See how that works?

We will continue to agree to disagree on this, but until someone not named NDSU does anything in the playoffs in the near future, my argument (HTH competition in the playoffs) will be 100% valid.

Even a simpleton can see that a conference that has a 5-2 post-season advantage over the other in the past 5 years is not vastly inferior to said conference (as many on here have suggested).

[Red & Black]

The Big Sky also averages more teams in the playoffs than the MVFC - more chances to get to the semi's.

The CAA can brag about all of their semi finals as well - but they average just under 4 teams in the field per year since 2000. They are bound to have teams advance further.

As far as getting matched up with the SLC...I'd take that over getting matched up with the CAA (see the Gateway/MVFC) prior to NDSU/SDSU shifting the playoffs west. Everyone else is still going to get thrown east for the MVFC.

Drawing the SLC is a HUGE advantage for the Big Sky..prior to SHSUs little run the SLC had 7 total playoff wins since the turn of the century and have a 48% all time playoff win %

the MVFC has 7 less years of existence and 20 less bids..yet the MVFC has just 2 less titles (and that's not counting SIUs 1983 title), just 12 less wins and a better win%

Drawing the Southland may be an advantage for some teams, but historically it hasn't been any advantage for us.

2013 - Defeated SDSU (MVFC), 41-17
2012 - Defeated Illinois State (MVFC), 51-35
2012 - Lost to Sam Houston State (Southland), 45-42
2010 - Defeated NDSU (MVFC), 38-35
2009 - Lost to SFA (Southland), 44-33
2007 - Defeated #2 seed McNeese State (Southland), 44-15
2005 - Lost to Northern Iowa (MVFC), 41-38
2004 - Defeated #1 Seed S. Illinois (MVFC), 35-31
2004 - Lost to Sam Houston State (Southland), 34-35
1997 - Defeated NW State LA (Southland), 40-10
1997 - Lost to Youngstown State (Gateway), 14-25
1992 - Lost to Northern Iowa (Gateway), 14-17
1985 - Lost to Northern Iowa (Gateway), 14-17

EWU's Overall playoff record versus members of the Southland Conference= 2-3
EWU's Overall playoff record versus members of the Missouri Valley/Gateway Conferences=4-4

[centennial]

Your rhetoric is really better suited for a homer site. If you truly believe that the Big Sky is not one of the top 5 conferences in the FCS, then you are clearly showing your ignorance of FCS football.

You can continue to cite Massey and Sagarin - we start citing intangible when we don't have a compelling argument. I'll continue to cite HTH competition in the playoffs, which is a much more significant comparison, IMO. Prior to league expansion, the Big Sky was consistently ranked in the top 1-3 in all of the various rankings every year - before we only had ISU and Weber State dragging our GPI down. Now it's UNC, UC-Davis, and North Dakota as well. The top 4-5 teams in the Big Sky (for argument's sake, let's say EWU, UM, Cal Poly, MSU, NAU) compare very favorably to the top 4-5 in the MVFC.
Oh come on. No one says that the top of the Big Sky isn't good, just that it isn't a strong league top to bottom. I still rate MVFC, CAA and Southland ahead currently and on par with OVC and Southern. Montana got beat by Coastal Carolina, and scraped by SD . NAU and SUU got embarrassed. Jacksonville St QB got injured before you could get into the Semi-Finals. Cherry picking stats does not make a better league. When you start having a better SOS and national rankings we can talk, for now all you have is some rhetoric. I do agree that ND, Weber, UNC and Idaho State are terrible teams and does pull down the league, MVFC only has 2 of those.

Overall the biggest problems is the NCAA FCS SRS, it is a terrible, terrible system that prioritizes cheap wins over SOS. Can someone honestly say that NAU at 12 is better than SDSU at 17 or Towson is 9th best FCS team or Harvard is the 14th best FCS in the country?

[Red & Black]

Oh come on. No one says that the top of the Big Sky isn't good, just that it isn't a strong league top to bottom. I still rate MVFC, CAA and Southland ahead currently and on par with OVC and Southern. Montana got beat by Coastal Carolina, and scraped by SD . NAU and SUU got embarrassed. Jacksonville St QB got injured before you could get into the Semi-Finals. Cherry picking stats does not make a better league. When you start having a better SOS and national rankings we can talk, for now all you have is some rhetoric. I do agree that ND, Weber, UNC and Idaho State are terrible teams and does pull down the league, MVFC only has 2 of those.

Overall the biggest problems is the NCAA FCS SRS, it is a terrible, terrible system that prioritizes cheap wins over SOS. Can someone honestly say that NAU at 12 is better than SDSU at 17 or Towson is 9th best FCS team or Harvard is the 14th best FCS in the country?

Fair points, although I'd argue that the MVFC isn't a strong conference from top to bottom, either...see Indiana State (1-11), Western Illinois (4-8), South Dakota 4-8), et al.

Additionally, I've never said that the bottom of the Big Sky isn't weak, but rather, because we are a larger conference we just have more of those types of teams than say, the MVFC. There isn't a large disparity between an Idaho State or UNC and a Western Illinois or Indiana State, who are equally as horrible. It's just that now we have a couple more of those type teams than we used to.

Therefore, cummulative type ratings for a 13 member conference in which not every team plays one another mean very little when you are talking about the top teams in the Big Sky.

You still haven't explained to me why the rest of the MVFC has failed to do anything in the playoffs the past several years. If it was a salient argument against the Big Sky and Montana during the later part of the 90's and part of the 00's, then it's just as applicable to the MVFC and NDSU now, don't you think?



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[centennial]

Fair points. I've never said that the bottom of the Big Sky isn't weak, but rather, because we are a larger conference we just have more of those types of teams than say, the MVFC. There isn't a large disparity between an Idaho State or UNC and a Western Illinois or Indiana State, who are equally as horrible. It's just that now we have a couple more of those type teams than we used to.

Therefore, cummulative type ratings for a 13 member conference in which not every team plays one another mean very little when you are talking about the top teams in the Big Sky.

You still haven't explained to me why the rest of the MVFC has failed to do anything in the playoffs the past several years. If it was a salient argument against the Big Sky and Montana during the later part of the 90's and part of the 00's, then it's just as applicable to the MVFC and NDSU now, don't you think?



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I agree MVFC has choked in playoffs games. I am all for fairness and a understandable system which looks at SOS and national polls, even when the MVFC is weak. Either way, EWU is one of my picks for taking it all next year.

[Red & Black]

I agree MVFC has choked in playoffs games. I am all for fairness and a understandable system which looks at SOS and national polls, even when the MVFC is weak. Either way, EWU is one of my picks for taking it all next year.

That we can agree on for sure. I'm really looking forward to the home and home with UNI. Our AD has done a great job of setting up H&H's with some of the better FCS teams in Sam Houston and UNI, it will be fun to see who he lines up next...NDSU? Probably won't happen given the amount of revenue NDSU most likely generates from a home game...and EWU isn't going to do a 2-1 with anyone in the FCS.

As for EWU, who knows. Much will depend on a drastic need for improvement on the defensive side of the ball...even the overwhelming majority of our own fans know that.

I think we'll know more about what type of team this is (mentally) come Aug 23rd. I think on paper we are a better team than SHSU - that coupled with playing at home should give us the advantage. But there is the mental aspect of playing a team that you are 0-3 against all-time...with 2 very recent losses fresh in their memories. If Adams can lead the team and get the SHSU monkey off of EWU's collective backs, I think it will set us up for a nice season down the road.

I'm really interested in seeing how NDSU looks this year. I think it's natural to assume that there will be some level of drop-off with the loss of a HC and a large number of graduations, but it seems like with NDSU, it's more about the system than the individual makeup of the team or coaching staff. I think the same is true of EWU to an extent, although if Baldwin left tomorrow I don't think we'd be the same team going unto 2014.

[Bisonator]

It is absolutely an obvious point, but I don't really see how it's relevant to what we are discussing, considering anyone could make the same argument for any team at any time. For instance, I could say that NDSU perhaps would not have had the same level of success in the playoffs the past three years had they not had the (seemingly overwhelming) advantage of playing every single playoff game at home. See how that works?

And I don't think anyone would really argue with you. That's really my whole point of the HTH records being in favor of BSC, because the games were played in their house! All I am saying is the HTH record may be a little more even if the games were more evenly split as far as home field goes, not which conference is better because I don't think you can really judge that by the few teams and games played in the post season.

Anyway you're right we will just have to agree to disagree. About what I'm not real sure....xlolx

[frozennorth]

You still haven't explained to me why the rest of the MVFC has failed to do anything in the playoffs the past several years. If it was a salient argument against the Big Sky and Montana during the later part of the 90's and part of the 00's, then it's just as applicable to the MVFC and NDSU now, don't you think?
k

you might not have noticed, but you can pull the same trick with the Big Sky. Without EWU, the Big Sky would look pretty awful over the last few years. (or the Socon without GSU or the SLC without SHSU)

the MVFC has one irredeemable disaster of a football program, ISU-b. The big sky has ISU-P and UNC. The Big sky has 4 teams that I would expect to be regular contenders, UM, MSU, EWU and Cal Poly. The MVFC has NDSU, SDSU, UNI, SIU and YSU.

Out of the great west, the MVFC got the division superpower, split the solid second tier teams (Cal Poly and SDSU) and the Big Sky got 4 of the five chaff schools, SUU, UCD UND and Noco.

[Silenoz]

5 years ago it was the CAA, and now it's the MVFC. People really have a hard-on for knocking the BSC down a peg or two for some reason...

Conference wars are dumb anyways. As a Pitt + Georgia Tech guy, I really don't feel like trying to leverage FSU's accomplishments, but that's just me.

[Yotes]

Fair points, although I'd argue that the MVFC isn't a strong conference from top to bottom, either...see Indiana State (1-11), Western Illinois (4-8), South Dakota 4-8), et al.

.500+ teams in the Big Sky.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

.500+ teams in the Big Sky.

In the years they are that in the MVFC they might be that in the BSC as well. Other than that you can forget about those dreams.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

In the years they are that in the MVFC they might be that in the BSC as well. Other than that you can forget about those dreams.

When you can regularly play the lower 2/3ds of your conference, no. There's a lot of easy wins in the BSC.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

When you can regularly play the lower 2/3ds of your conference, no. There's a lot of easy wins in the BSC.

Agreed, having WIU and USD would provide some extra wins for everyone.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Agreed, having WIU and USD would provide some extra wins for everyone.

Do you not see how at least 50% of the MVFC can be considered competitive when barely 1/4th of the Big Sky is?

Look at the example above, who besides UM and EWU is in that list?

[centennial]

Nice trash talking to a USD fan when you needed a couple of breaks to beat them. I love how every Griz fan thinks USD is an automatic win when they know what happened last year. Also what is funny is USD and WIU are ranked along MSU and NAU in sagarin.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

Nice trash talking to a USD fan when you needed a couple of breaks to beat them. I love how every Griz fan thinks USD is an automatic win when they know what happened last year. Also what is funny is USD and WIU are ranked along MSU and NAU in sagarin.

Ok, I guess it's uncalled for when I get to keep seeing the "MVFC teams would...in the BSC"?

BTW, it was a twist on words to NoDak anyway. The response to Yotes was legit.

On the needing a couple of breaks to win there? Big deal? The Griz have needed much bigger breaks at times to get by ID State but does that suddenly make them better?

You MVFC fans have all talked yourselves into something that the rest of us don't buy into and if you like your sagarin ranking then good for you, I'm very proud of you I guess?

I am fine with you guys having that and the BSC having the playoff record in head to head I guess. The MVFC high horse doesn't like to be challenged...got it. xlolx

[Bisonoline]

Ok, I guess it's uncalled for when I get to keep seeing the "MVFC teams would...in the BSC"?

BTW, it was a twist on words to NoDak anyway. The response to Yotes was legit.

On the needing a couple of breaks to win there? Big deal? The Griz have needed much bigger breaks at times to get by ID State but does that suddenly make them better?

You MVFC fans have all talked yourselves into something that the rest of us don't buy into and if you like your sagarin ranking then good for you, I'm very proud of you I guess?

I am fine with you guys having that and the BSC having the playoff record in head to head I guess. The MVFC high horse doesn't like to be challenged...got it. xlolx

Never cared for Sagarin myself. It seems some grasp at anything to justify our legitimacy. Kind of like the red head step child always trying to curry favor and prove himself. I dont really give a shizzz what others think of NDSU as I am comfortable with where we have been and where we are now.

[Silenoz]

Nice trash talking to a USD fan when you needed a couple of breaks to beat them. I love how every Griz fan thinks USD is an automatic win when they know what happened last year. Also what is funny is USD and WIU are ranked along MSU and NAU in sagarin.
The USD fan who's in here trying to ride your coattails?

[ursus arctos horribilis]

Never cared for Sagarin myself. It seems some grasp at anything to justify our legitimacy. Kind of like the red head step child always trying to curry favor and prove himself. I dont really give a shizzz what others think of NDSU as I am comfortable with where we have been and where we are now.

Ok, not all MVFC fans. xlolx

It normally comes from the fans that need to justify something and NDSU ain't in that category.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Ok, not all MVFC fans. xlolx

It normally comes from the fans that need to justify something and NDSU ain't in that category.

http://www.kcci.com/image/view/-/10537758/medRes/1/-/maxh/460/maxw/620/-/rt29sxz/-/UNI-Panthers-jpg.png

[Bisonator]

Must be some truth or BSC fans wouldn't be so defensive.xwhistlexxsmiley_wix

[centennial]

Ok, I guess it's uncalled for when I get to keep seeing the "MVFC teams would...in the BSC"?

BTW, it was a twist on words to NoDak anyway. The response to Yotes was legit.

On the needing a couple of breaks to win there? Big deal? The Griz have needed much bigger breaks at times to get by ID State but does that suddenly make them better?

You MVFC fans have all talked yourselves into something that the rest of us don't buy into and if you like your sagarin ranking then good for you, I'm very proud of you I guess?

I am fine with you guys having that and the BSC having the playoff record in head to head I guess. The MVFC high horse doesn't like to be challenged...got it. xlolx
In my opinion USD was the better team in that game. I remember seeing that game and wondering if Montana was having a bad day or just wasn't as good as I thought they were.

http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2013/295/1/3/there_is_no_need_to_be_upset_by_pearlcom123-d6rgogo.gif

[Red & Black]

When you can regularly play the lower 2/3ds of your conference, no. There's a lot of easy wins in the BSC.

I'd agree. The problem with that argument is that nobody regularly plays the bottom 2/3ds of the conference. You may have an easier or more difficult schedule on any given year, but as has been mentioned several times before, nobody is playing ISU, UNC, Weber, etc all in the same year.

The best thing for the Big Sky would be to add a 14th school for football and split into two Divisions. That way you'd get a composite ranking for both Divisions that'd be a little more accurate for those respective schools rather than a 13 school average. I think you'd probably end up with a little more top-heavy "North" Division, but I'd be ok with that.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

In my opinion USD was the better team in that game. I remember seeing that game and wondering if Montana was having a bad day or just wasn't as good as I thought they were.

http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2013/295/1/3/there_is_no_need_to_be_upset_by_pearlcom123-d6rgogo.gif

We were not that good last year. We were middlin'.

I can admit that, some can not. We were on the road and still beat an MVFC team and since that was a hot topic I guess it's kosher to throw out there. If you took it as me being upset I'm sorry but that is off a bit.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

Must be some truth or BSC fans wouldn't be so defensive.xwhistlexxsmiley_wix

If there is some truth it would probably show up elsewhere is my guess. Again if flipping the coin is defensive then I think it may just be taken wrong so I'll try and be more clear.

[centennial]

We were not that good last year. We were middlin'.

I can admit that, some can not. We were on the road and still beat an MVFC team and since that was a hot topic I guess it's kosher to throw out there. If you took it as me being upset I'm sorry but that is off a bit.
How is your team looking for this year? Any chance of taking down EWU? How many seniors graduated? What are the biggest concerns?

[ursus arctos horribilis]

How is your team looking for this year? Any chance of taking down EWU? How many seniors graduated? What are the biggest concerns?

This early I an not up to speed with our strengths and weaknesses but the concern I always have early is how does the Oline look and since I didn't make the spring festivities I can't tell ya much. Maybe someone else can give a more informed opinion if they saw anything. Apologies, I'm just not a good souce of information at this point. I can tell you with the losses at LB etc. it's also a concern but anybody would tell you that.

[clenz]

I'd agree. The problem with that argument is that nobody regularly plays the bottom 2/3ds of the conference. You may have an easier or more difficult schedule on any given year, but as has been mentioned several times before, nobody is playing ISU, UNC, Weber, etc all in the same year.

The best thing for the Big Sky would be to add a 14th school for football and split into two Divisions. That way you'd get a composite ranking for both Divisions that'd be a little more accurate for those respective schools rather than a 13 school average. I think you'd probably end up with a little more top-heavy "North" Division, but I'd be ok with that.

Based on 2013 standings - Teams played that finished the season .500 or lower

EWU: Weber State, No Dak, Idaho State, Portland State (I'm not sure where PSU "fits" but they have won more than 4 games just three times since I enrolled in college...I've been out of college for 4 years)
NAU:Davis, Idaho State, No Dako, UNC, Sacramento State
Montana:No Dak, Portland State, Davis, Weber State, Sacramento State
Southern Utah: UNC, Davis, PSU, Idaho State, Weber State, Sac State

EWU played 4 of their 8 conference games against .500 or worse teams
NAU 5 of 8
Montana 5 of 8
Southern Utah 6 of 8 - NOT TO BRING THIS UP AGAIN BUT HOW THE **** DID THEY GET IN THE ****ING PLAYOFFS WITH THAT CONFERENCE SCHEDULE PLUS A ****ING D2


While you don't play them all every year the Big Sky is rather weak after the first 3 or 4 and abhorrently bad after the first 5 or 6.

I haven't looked at 2014 schedules again but I'd bet they set up in a rather similar fashion.


Where as the MVFC has Indiana State at abhorrently bad you've then got WIU, USD and MSU that aren't great on a yearly basis but competitive though "weak" most years.

Thanks to the complaining of the eastern schools UNI (went the last 2 years without Indiana State), SDSU, USD, and NDSU will miss one of the bad schools infrequently due to the bitching about having to travel west.


Southern Utah is exactly what I was talking about in the thread of mine that you split from the scheduling one ursus. You said you see it being an exception and not the norm that the BSC gets 4 teams in and I disagree.

In the Big Sky you're probably going to have 4 or 5 "bad teams" out of your 8 game conference schedule, put that with a D2 (though I do completely understand how hard it is to get FCS games out there so no "beef" there), split the tough conference games, and don't screw the OOC up and you're promised 5-6 conference wins plus a D2 plus lets say 1 OOC game and you're at a schedule with only 3 losses while playing in the Big Sky (something that is vastly overrated based on Montana and EWUs past success)...much like the B10, B12, SEC, or ACC in the mens basketball tournament (yes, as bad as jays' example in that thread was it does *kind of fit* with the fact that 2 or 3 teams will carry the torch for a conference with 12+ members and the other 10-13 members get to ride the wave of it.

I see that being the example that Big Sky teams use going forward and it's going to work....exploiting the gaudy record to those members of the committee who look at record and not substance.

[Red & Black]

Based on 2013 standings - Teams played that finished the season .500 or lower

EWU: Weber State, No Dak, Idaho State, Portland State

We played 4 teams with .500 or worse records during the regular season, but still managed to destroy the #2 playoff team out of the MVFC the past two seasons. I know football is about matchups, and maybe neither of those teams matched up well with EWU, but from my perspective neither was any better than any of the teams we played in conference during the regular season (including the bad ones). Even lowly Idaho State played us tougher. So that probably has a little to do with my perspective.


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[clenz]

We played 4 teams with .500 or worse records during the regular season, but still managed to destroy the #2 playoff team out of the MVFC the past two seasons. I know football is about matchups, and maybe neither of those teams matched up well with EWU, but from my perspective neither was any better than any of the teams we played in conference during the regular season (including the bad ones). Even lowly Idaho State played us tougher. So that probably has a little to do with my perspective.


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Yet you have yet to beat UNI...ever....

See, basing a season/program off of a rather small sample size can be fun or not fun.

Getting into the playoffs creates something completely different than what happens in the regular season. SHSU winning a game in the playoffs last a season doesn't justify them being there with 5 (maybe 6 depending how their OOC is viewed as counters) D1 wins over programs with 7 or 8 D1 wins.

The OVC winning a game for the first time in 14 years doesn't justify them getting that many teams on a yearly basis.

Had SDSU had the ability to play 5 games against .500 or lower teams in stead of 4 they might have gotten a better spot in the playoffs.

Or maybe the should have been rewarded to thumping SELA.

Oh, that SELA team that SDSU thumped then thumped SHSU

That SHSU thumped the ever loving crud out of EWU.


You see how fun it can be to start playing these things and taking match ups completely out of it?

SDSU was/is a terrible match EWU's style of play. SDSU matches up well agaisnt SDSU style teams - they don't have the athletic capability to keep up with EWU style teams from last season. However, they match up quite and would do much better against Montana, NAU, SUU, and the also rans of the Big Sky. SDSU likely would have been second or third in the Big Sky....EWU was the champion. Makes sense that they'd lose to EWU....but....semantics really

[IBleedYellow]

Clenz, when you start going with a transitive property, you lose your argument. xcoffeex

[clenz]

Clenz, when you start going with a transitive property, you lose your argument. xcoffeex

I realize...but I was proving a point that to base an entire season off one game/match up is rather asinine.

To think the Big Sky is "that far" ahead of the MVFC based on the fact SDSU matched up terribly with EWU is just as asinine, or more so, add the transitive property

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[centennial]

We played 4 teams with .500 or worse records during the regular season, but still managed to destroy the #2 playoff team out of the MVFC the past two seasons. I know football is about matchups, and maybe neither of those teams matched up well with EWU, but from my perspective neither was any better than any of the teams we played in conference during the regular season (including the bad ones). Even lowly Idaho State played us tougher. So that probably has a little to do with my perspective.


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SDSU was doing well till they decided that fake punt was a good idea and stopped running(I cannot understand what their coach was thinking). I do think that EWU was the only Big Sky team that could beat SDSU like that. At the end of the year I would put Missouri State and UNI better and SIU on par with SDSU. All 3 of these teams would have done better against EWU, in my opinion.

[Red & Black]

SDSU was doing well till they decided that fake punt was a good idea and stopped running(I cannot understand what their coach was thinking). I do think that EWU was the only Big Sky team that could beat SDSU like that. At the end of the year I would put Missouri State and UNI better and SIU on par with SDSU. All 3 of these teams would have done better against EWU, in my opinion.

SDSU decided to stop running because they weren't having any success doing it. 88 yards rushing the entire game for a team that is very run-oriented. When a coach decides to stop running the ball, it generally means it's because the other team is a more physical team at the line of scrimmage.


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[Red & Black]

I realize...but I was proving a point that to base an entire season off one game/match up is rather asinine.

To think the Big Sky is "that far" ahead of the MVFC based on the fact SDSU matched up terribly with EWU is just as asinine, or more so, add the transitive property

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I don't think the Big Sky is that far ahead of any of the power conferences. My original point on this whole thread was that it's not that far behind, either...which was the assertion that was made and one that a lot of MVFC fans like to parrot...I offerered a HTH comparison in the playoffs the past 5 years to illustrate that. Apparently that is not a valid argument because the Big Sky played those games at home, sample size...and also Sagarin. So I guess we will continue to agree to disagree on this. Best way is to let it play out on the field, and we get UNI in 2015!


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[clenz]

And they threw for more yards than they did in pretty much any other hand all season. And had over 400 yards of offense


It's funny how much a bad match up can affect things.

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[Grizo406]

How is your team looking for this year? Any chance of taking down EWU? How many seniors graduated? What are the biggest concerns?

What my biggest concern is our losses at the the LB position.

As far as your other questions, I don't have a clue.

[BisonFan02]

What my biggest concern is our losses at the the LB position.

As far as your other questions, I don't have a clue.


This early I an not up to speed with our strengths and weaknesses but the concern I always have early is how does the Oline look and since I didn't make the spring festivities I can't tell ya much. Maybe someone else can give a more informed opinion if they saw anything. Apologies, I'm just not a good souce of information at this point. I can tell you with the losses at LB etc. it's also a concern but anybody would tell you that.

Maybe if you two guys spent less time riding tandem bikes with each other while going on brunch dates, maybe you would be more up to speed..... :D xlolx

[Kemo]

In regards to the SDSU @ EWU game debate:

The game was tied at halftime, so the final score was not indicative of the competitive level of the game. EWU ran away at the end due to the combination of great play by Vern Adams (people like to bring up the botched fake punt as the turning point in the game, but I believe an even bigger play was that 4th down conversion in which Adams eluded would-be tacklers until a receiver finally came open), Coach Baldwin's game plan to contain Zenner, and the Jacks just being flat out of gas.

I don't think a lot of people realize that this game was essentially SDSU's 6th playoff game in a row since our mid season lapse put the team behind the eight ball and every game was win-or-go-home after game #8. Couple that with the Jacks going against a talented, rested team with an extra week to game plan and things like the 2nd half collapse can happen.

I'm a little surprised the Jacks aren't getting more love as an MVFC title contender being that they return the conference's #1 quarterback, rusher, and *receiver (in terms of total yards). It's probably for the best though, as the Jacks seem to play better with lower expectations.

*correction: Jason Schneider had the most catches, 2nd most yards to Zach Vraa

[clenz]

#1 qb? Did Kollmorgen transfer?

DJ is twice the total weapon that Zenner is

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[Bisonoline]

In regards to the SDSU @ EWU game debate:

The game was tied at halftime, so the final score was not indicative of the competitive level of the game. EWU ran away at the end due to the combination of great play by Vern Adams (people like to bring up the botched fake punt as the turning point in the game, but I believe an even bigger play was that 4th down conversion in which Adams eluded would-be tacklers until a receiver finally came open), Coach Baldwin's game plan to contain Zenner, and the Jacks just being flat out of gas.

I don't think a lot of people realize that this game was essentially SDSU's 6th playoff game in a row since our mid season lapse put the team behind the eight ball and every game was win-or-go-home after game #8. Couple that with the Jacks going against a talented, rested team with an extra week to game plan and things like the 2nd half collapse can happen.

I'm a little surprised the Jacks aren't getting more love as an MVFC title contender being that they return the conference's #1 quarterback, rusher, and receiver (in terms of total yards). It's probably for the best though, as the Jacks seem to play better with lower expectations.

Well you had four losses last year and you didnt win it with all those number ones so why would anyone be excited this year?

[Houndawg]

#1 qb? Did Kollmorgen transfer?

DJ is twice the total weapon that Zenner is

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DJ has better hands but ZZ is tougher.

[Kemo]

#1 qb? Did Kollmorgen transfer?

I specified "total yards", though I should have said passer instead of quarterback. http://www.mvc.org/football/stats/CONFLDRS.HTM
And it wasn't just because Kollmorgen got hurt, as Sumner averaged 214 yards/game to Kollmorgen's 182 yards/game. I'm not even saying Sumner is better, as he has consistency issues, but in terms of passing yards, he did put up the most in the conference.



DJ is twice the total weapon that Zenner is

This is an asinine comment. I would love to see how you justify this besides that you like the color purple more than blue. Even if you think DJ is better, how could you possibly rationalize that he is "twice the total weapon" as a guy coming off back-to-back 2,000 rushing yard seasons?

[Kemo]

Well you had four losses last year and you didnt win it with all those number ones so why would anyone be excited this year?
[/B] Because players generally continue to improve as their career progresses (baring injury) and many other teams lose their statistical leaders to graduation.

Honestly, I hope everyone doubts the Jacks because they seem to always preform better when they have low expectations. I'm optimistic about the upcoming season, but at the same time, I've been a SDSU fan long enough to know it's hard enough to predict what's going to happen from game-to-game let alone season-to-season.

[BisonFan02]

Neutral party here.....seen both. DJ is better than ZZ. Both are ridiculous (outside of ZZ's games against the Bison), but I would take DJ.

Disclaimer alert: DJ needs to stay healthy....that will be the question this year along with the rest of UNI.

[mgbison]

1. I've only watched Sumner play 3 or 4 games, but he's terrible. If rabbit fans are excited about having him for another year, I'm just gonna say oh my.

2. DJ is a more complete back. DJ concerns me catching passes out of the backfield more than he does running the ball. Both are solid backs, but DJ is a freak.

[citdog]

Maybe if you two guys spent less time riding tandem bikes with each other while going on brunch dates, maybe you would be more up to speed..... :D xlolx

Or perhaps making sure the new hot rod moto scooter ACTUALLY RUNS........

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

In regards to the SDSU @ EWU game debate:

The game was tied at halftime, so the final score was not indicative of the competitive level of the game. EWU ran away at the end due to the combination of great play by Vern Adams (people like to bring up the botched fake punt as the turning point in the game, but I believe an even bigger play was that 4th down conversion in which Adams eluded would-be tacklers until a receiver finally came open), Coach Baldwin's game plan to contain Zenner, and the Jacks just being flat out of gas.

I don't think a lot of people realize that this game was essentially SDSU's 6th playoff game in a row since our mid season lapse put the team behind the eight ball and every game was win-or-go-home after game #8. Couple that with the Jacks going against a talented, rested team with an extra week to game plan and things like the 2nd half collapse can happen.

I'm a little surprised the Jacks aren't getting more love as an MVFC title contender being that they return the conference's #1 quarterback, rusher, and *receiver (in terms of total yards). It's probably for the best though, as the Jacks seem to play better with lower expectations.

*correction: Jason Schneider had the most catches, 2nd most yards to Zach Vraa



Sumner has never proven he can win the 'big' game. Plus SDSU plays both UNI and NDSU on the road this year....more than likely 2 losses there. And if I'm not mistaken, I thought another Jacks fan said the team needs to replace a lot on both lines this coming year. The Jacks will be good but will not win the Valley title IMO.

ZZ is very good but when he can run for 100+ against the Bison defense then he'll be comparable to DJ. If DJ stays healthy he'll be an AA.

Top 3 in the Valley right now in my opinion:

UNI
NDSU
SDSU

I think all three will be in the playoffs.

[Houndawg]

Sumner has never proven he can win the 'big' game. Plus SDSU plays both UNI and NDSU on the road this year....more than likely 2 losses there. And if I'm not mistaken, I thought another Jacks fan said the team needs to replace a lot on both lines this coming year. The Jacks will be good but will not win the Valley title IMO.

ZZ is very good but when he can run for 100+ against the Bison defense then he'll be comparable to DJ. If DJ stays healthy he'll be an AA.

Top 3 in the Valley right now in my opinion:

UNI
NDSU
SDSU

I think all three will be in the playoffs.

I think SIU moves into the top 3 this year. UNI will look good on paper, as usual, but something will go wrong, as usual. I'm higher on Sumner than most here seem to be, I think he's better than Faulkner was as an underclassman and has a lot of upside.

[clenz]

I think SIU moves into the top 3 this year. UNI will look good on paper, as usual, but something will go wrong, as usual. I'm higher on Sumner than most here seem to be, I think he's better than Faulkner was as an underclassman and has a lot of upside.
SIU has things go wrong more than UNI.

SIU has been using the injury excuse much longer than UNI.

[Houndawg]

SIU has things go wrong more than UNI.

SIU has been using the injury excuse much longer than UNI.

I knew that would smoke you out...

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I think SIU moves into the top 3 this year. UNI will look good on paper, as usual, but something will go wrong, as usual. I'm higher on Sumner than most here seem to be, I think he's better than Faulkner was as an underclassman and has a lot of upside.

I love your bourbon fueled optimism HD but I tell ya, SIU has to do something in the Lennon era for me to believe it.

[IBleedYellow]

Oh off-season discussion, you are getting very though out and well placed now.

My bets are still on the winner of the MVFC, Big SKy or CAA to do the most damage in the playoffs.

If that isn't the safest bet you can make, I'm not sure what is.

[CrazyCat]

These threads are always a blast to read. It is amazing how much some people know about teams and how they will finish in the fall. Colter Nuanez (Bobcat Beat writer)wrote an article a couple days ago chronicling the past 15 months of Bobcats football. It shows how high expectations can be derailed for numerous reasons and could not have been predicted. I don't bring this up as an excuse for last year and definitely not as a predictor for next, but just a little reminder on what can actually happen over the course of a year for a football team.

Bobcat Beat and this article require a subscription. http://bobcatnation.com/node/856

[NoDak 4 Ever]

These threads are always a blast to read. It is amazing how much some people know about teams and how they will finish in the fall. Colter Nuanez (Bobcat Beat writer)wrote an article a couple days ago chronicling the past 15 months of Bobcats football. It shows how high expectations can be derailed for numerous reasons and could not have been predicted. I don't bring this up as an excuse for last year and definitely not as a predictor for next, but just a little reminder on what can actually happen over the course of a year for a football team.

Bobcat Beat and this article require a subscription. http://bobcatnation.com/node/856

We were intentionally not mentioning MSU out of pity.

[Kemo]

And if I'm not mistaken, I thought another Jacks fan said the team needs to replace a lot on both lines this coming year.
Offensive line should be fine. They do lose 3 to graduation from that unit, but 2 of those 3 were in and out of the line up due to injuries or losing their spot to an underclassman. Witzmann at left tackle will be the biggest loss being that he has made numerous All-American teams over the last 2 years, but his replacement is another massive human-being who is very capable, so the drop off shouldn't be that dramatic.

Defensive line is really what's going to make or break SDSU's season. Cole Langer is a stud at DT and Jack Sherlock has been productive in the defensive line rotation for the last 2 years, but after that, there are a lot of unknowns. Auston LaBlance has some experience at the other DT spot and JR Plote (who is ironically a junior this year) has seen spot minutes at DE, so at least they aren't completely green and are upperclassmen. After that it's pretty much unproven underclassman, hence why defensive line depth is my biggest concern heading into this season.

[Bisonator]

These threads are always a blast to read. It is amazing how much some people know about teams and how they will finish in the fall. Colter Nuanez (Bobcat Beat writer)wrote an article a couple days ago chronicling the past 15 months of Bobcats football. It shows how high expectations can be derailed for numerous reasons and could not have been predicted. I don't bring this up as an excuse for last year and definitely not as a predictor for next, but just a little reminder on what can actually happen over the course of a year for a football team.

Bobcat Beat and this article require a subscription. http://bobcatnation.com/node/856

That was karma...:D

[clenz]

I specified "total yards", though I should have said passer instead of quarterback. http://www.mvc.org/football/stats/CONFLDRS.HTM
And it wasn't just because Kollmorgen got hurt, as Sumner averaged 214 yards/game to Kollmorgen's 182 yards/game. I'm not even saying Sumner is better, as he has consistency issues, but in terms of passing yards, he did put up the most in the conference.Keep in mind that Kollmorgen was pulled at half time of Drake, early in the 4th against Northern Colorado, and early in the 4th Against McNeese State due to the games being completely in hand. The UNC game wasn't about passing for UNI. It was a complete commando raid from the start...and UNI ran the ball 42 times and Sawyer threw for 248. Iowa State - the one OOC game that Sawyer played the whole game he threw for 229 but DJ ran for 199. UNI ran the ball 44 times against Drake to get the game over. Sawyer threw 14 passes (completed 11). McNeese State he threw for 288 in basically 3 quarters...and UNI took the ball out of the air half way through the 3rd.

What hurt Sawyer, physically and statiscally, was the NDSU game - NOTE TO NDSU FANS...I'M NOT SAYING IT WAS DIRTY...Sawyer suffered a concussion (From multiple reports) but finished the game. You could tell from watching him that he was off more than just the "NDSU had a great defense" off. Couple that with Sawyer being without his top WR and top TE all season and UNI having to move a LB to RB half way through the season (who average nearly 5 yards per carry after the move)

Without that NDSU game he played games and went 144-215 (67%) 1703 yards (214 per game....he actually averaged 203 per game, not sure where you got 184 from) with 14 TD and just 4 INT which all comes to an efficiency of 151.28.

Sumner played 5 more games, thew just 4 more TDs, 3 more picks, lower completion %, only 11 yards more per game and a lower efficiency...all while throwing 7 more passes per game

For fun lets take Sawyers stats over 14 games

238-322 (63%) 2,842 yards 19-20 TD 6-7 INT

I get we all like "our guy" but be real on this...It took twice the number of passes from Sumner and Sawyer being pulled out of 3 of the 4 OOC games early for Sumner to have a 12 yard per game average lead on him




This is an asinine comment. I would love to see how you justify this besides that you like the color purple more than blue. Even if you think DJ is better, how could you possibly rationalize that he is "twice the total weapon" as a guy coming off back-to-back 2,000 rushing yard seasons?
ZZ is a very very good back...the vast majority of object/outside people seem to want DJ based on this thread - and previous threads.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Keep in mind that Kollmorgen was pulled at half time of Drake, early in the 4th against Northern Colorado, and early in the 4th Against McNeese State due to the games being completely in hand. The UNC game wasn't about passing for UNI. It was a complete commando raid from the start...and UNI ran the ball 42 times and Sawyer threw for 248. Iowa State - the one OOC game that Sawyer played the whole game he threw for 229 but DJ ran for 199. UNI ran the ball 44 times against Drake to get the game over. Sawyer threw 14 passes (completed 11). McNeese State he threw for 288 in basically 3 quarters...and UNI took the ball out of the air half way through the 3rd.

What hurt Sawyer, physically and statiscally, was the NDSU game - NOTE TO NDSU FANS...I'M NOT SAYING IT WAS DIRTY...Sawyer suffered a concussion (From multiple reports) but finished the game. You could tell from watching him that he was off more than just the "NDSU had a great defense" off. Couple that with Sawyer being without his top WR and top TE all season and UNI having to move a LB to RB half way through the season (who average nearly 5 yards per carry after the move)

Without that NDSU game he played games and went 144-215 (67%) 1703 yards (214 per game....he actually averaged 203 per game, not sure where you got 184 from) with 14 TD and just 4 INT which all comes to an efficiency of 151.28.

Sumner played 5 more games, thew just 4 more TDs, 3 more picks, lower completion %, only 11 yards more per game and a lower efficiency...all while throwing 7 more passes per game

For fun lets take Sawyers stats over 14 games

238-322 (63%) 2,842 yards 19-20 TD 6-7 INT

I get we all like "our guy" but be real on this...It took twice the number of passes from Sumner and Sawyer being pulled out of 3 of the 4 OOC games early for Sumner to have a 12 yard per game average lead on him



ZZ is a very very good back...the vast majority of object/outside people seem to want DJ based on this thread - and previous threads.

Durability and toughness are things that seem to be lacking at UNI. You have to be able to play the whole game to be good.

[TheRevSFA]

SFA..

Why not throw a longshot out there?

In all seriousness, SELA will be a solid one to watch for. At least for this year, before they get nailed for academic issues due to letting transfers in that shouldn't be enrolled at SELA and have to vacate anything they win.

[BisonFan02]

That was karma...:D

Their season was over when they tucked their **** between their legs and grabbed their purse.

[lionsrking2]

SFA..

At least for this year, before they get nailed for academic issues due to letting transfers in that shouldn't be enrolled at SELA and have to vacate anything they win.

Please explain yourself. Who exactly "shouldn't" be enrolled and what "academic issues" are you referring to specifically?

[IBleedYellow]

That UNI game the Panthers got beat up. Such a physical game that we basically broke their backs for the rest of the season. I just can't believe we hurt their RB the way we did, he was such a tank, I didn't think anything would stop him, then he goes down in such a weird tackle after 55 yard run. Freak tackles can change an entire season.

Edit: I'd only take DJ if he had a S&C coach that wasn't from UNI...Seriously.

[clenz]

That UNI game the Panthers got beat up. Such a physical game that we basically broke their backs for the rest of the season. I just can't believe we hurt their RB the way we did, he was such a tank, I didn't think anything would stop him, then he goes down in such a weird tackle after 55 yard run. Freak tackles can change an entire season.

Edit: I'd only take DJ if he had a S&C coach that wasn't from UNI...Seriously.
The injuries have nothing to do with a SC program. No matter how hard you train you can't do anything as a SC coach to prevent torn ACLs, broken feet that require surgery, or concussions...which is what all of them were last season minus DJs freak hip flexor.

DJ is a physical freak and for that to happen like it did was an extremely freak issue.

[centennial]

Please explain yourself. Who exactly "shouldn't" be enrolled and what "academic issues" are you referring to specifically?
Are you the only active SELA fan on AGS? You have a homing radar for whenever SELA is mentioned. It is impressive.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

The injuries have nothing to do with a SC program. No matter how hard you train you can't do anything as a SC coach to prevent torn ACLs, broken feet that require surgery, or concussions...which is what all of them were last season minus DJs freak hip flexor.

DJ is a physical freak and for that to happen like it did was an extremely freak issue.

The dude that fell into Farley was getting pushed around pretty good, that's a S&C issue.

[IBleedYellow]

The dude that fell into Farley was getting pushed around pretty good, that's a S&C issue.


That's not what I said in my post, but that's the type of situation I was talking about.

[Houndawg]

I love your bourbon fueled optimism HD but I tell ya, SIU has to do something in the Lennon era for me to believe it.

Me too, but I think this is the year. Top 3. We beat UNI and SDSU last year.

[BEAR]

As a Bear fan, I can see us scoring quite a few points this year. The offense is finally healthy but I'm not sure our defense will take us all the way to the final game. Especially with Texas Tech, SELA, UT Martin, and Mo state on the schedule. Nice strong schedule...maybe too strong for a brand new coach with new schemes and new ideas.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

That's not what I said in my post, but that's the type of situation I was talking about.

It is part of a whole scenario. Tired players get injured/cause injuries more easily.

[Houndawg]

Durability and toughness are things that seem to be lacking at UNI. You have to be able to play the whole game to be good.

And he says I use the injury excuse too much.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Me too, but I think this is the year. Top 3. We beat UNI and SDSU last year.


Pretty optimistic there houndawg.

SIU is in the same boat as NDSU with having to replace a lot of coaches.

Is Lennon on the hot seat if SIU has a .500 or below season this year?

[Houndawg]

Pretty optimistic there houndawg.

SIU is in the same boat as NDSU with having to replace a lot of coaches.

Is Lennon on the hot seat if SIU has a .500 or below season this year?

Everybody is optimistic in May.



We're rolling with this guy for a while I think. His biggest problem is having to follow Jerry Kill.

His recruiting has slowly improved and changing S&C coaches was already paying off last season from what I saw, not that there isn't plenty room for improvement there. Ws and Ls have been disappointing but hes done a pretty fair job otherwise. Don't see many players on the police report these days.

[mgbison]

I put some blame on UNI's oc for not protecting their QB. The last three plays before halftime vs NDSU, UNI ran a read option and the QB kept it both times. Both times, he got lit up by our 250 lb defense end. I do not know why you'd expose your QB to unnecessary punishment.

[Yotes]

Sumner has never proven he can win the 'big' game. Plus SDSU plays both UNI and NDSU on the road this year....more than likely 2 losses there. And if I'm not mistaken, I thought another Jacks fan said the team needs to replace a lot on both lines this coming year. The Jacks will be good but will not win the Valley title IMO.

ZZ is very good but when he can run for 100+ against the Bison defense then he'll be comparable to DJ. If DJ stays healthy he'll be an AA.

Top 3 in the Valley right now in my opinion:

UNI
NDSU
SDSU

I think all three will be in the playoffs.
I agree with your top three, but don't think SDSU makes the playoffs. With just 11 games (not counting the D3 game) when most everyone else is playing 12, they can likely only afford three losses. Road games at UNI, NDSU, and Missouri will likely be those three losses, and they would need a lot of luck to sweep the rest of their schedule. We know 8-4 MVFC teams don't make the cut over comparable records from other leagues, no way a 7-4 record would make the cut.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

I agree with your top three, but don't think SDSU makes the playoffs. With just 11 games (not counting the D3 game) when most everyone else is playing 12, they can likely only afford three losses. Road games at UNI, NDSU, and Missouri will likely be those three losses, and they would need a lot of luck to sweep the rest of their schedule. We know 8-4 MVFC teams don't make the cut over comparable records from other leagues, no way a 7-4 record would make the cut.


Probably right.

Is the DD going to be sold out when the Bison come down this year?

What are Coyote fans expectations this year?

[Pant8her]

I put some blame on UNI's oc for not protecting their QB. The last three plays before halftime vs NDSU, UNI ran a read option and the QB kept it both times. Both times, he got lit up by our 250 lb defense end. I do not know why you'd expose your QB to unnecessary punishment.

Ding, Ding, give this man a cigar!

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Probably right.

Is the DD going to be sold out when the Bison come down this year?

What are Coyote fans expectations this year?

I'm heading up for that game! I'm sure I'll have no problem.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[BisonFan02]

Probably right.

Is the DD going to be sold out when the Bison come down this year?

What are Coyote fans expectations this year?

The Bison have scored 106 unanswered points against USD (spanning two games and the end of a third) since their 4th quarter FG against NDSU in 2010...start there. #babysteps

[clenz]

I put some blame on UNI's oc for not protecting their QB. The last three plays before halftime vs NDSU, UNI ran a read option and the QB kept it both times. Both times, he got lit up by our 250 lb defense end. I do not know why you'd expose your QB to unnecessary punishment.

There has been a lot...and I mean A LOT...of frustration with our OC for the last decade or so. Many fans in the UNI fan base point straight to the play calling late in games as the reason that UNI hasn't won a title...or blown it in big games.

UD in 2007 UNI was in complete control and the OC went away from what was working into something completely different and it allowed UD, and Flacco to take full advantage of it.
In 2008...Richmond in the semi's...Up by 6 with 2 minutes left with the ball and UR has 3 time outs but we have the ball at about the 40 yard line. What does he dial up? Jet sweep, off tackle and jet sweet. 3 plays 10 seconds. Ensuing punt sharked and UR has to go only 50 yards on a completely deflated UNI defense, at that point, for the go a head score.

2010 was a complete disaster. Two QBs trying to get the starting job. One a rJr who felt he was the "heir apparent" and the other a JUCO transfer that was more highly regarded than Cam Newton at times in recruiting (I'm not joking on that one sadly). The first a QB UNI is used to having...pocket guy that has enough mobility to do some things. The other a complete wildcat. Coaches fight and fight over who gets the nod. It tears the locker room apart. Rennie gets the nod and Davis, from many accounts, does what he can to sabotage the locker room and Rennie. That would be able to be dealt with if the OC was willing to call plays that suited Rennie. For those that watched him you'd know exactly the plays I'm talking about. With WR like Josh Collins, Jared Herrig, and Sinkfield on the roster, who were all fast as hell, and Rennie not having a big arm (or any arm really) running a ton of 10 yard and less slant, ins, out, roll outs, screens, etc... What does he call in stead? The same offense he is calling with Sawyer and Eric Sanders and Pat Grace (who could throw the ball 60-70 yards from his knees - I watched it happen). A lot of 15+ yard routes...deep drags, flys, posts, flags, stop and go, etc... Rennie NEVER had a chance to succeed.

With Sawyer you see him doing just stuff that makes you shake you head - like exactly what you mentioned.

That's why many UNI fans were "happy"...so to speak...when the rumors of him going to NDSU when Coach K was promoted flared up. It would suck to lose a long time OC to a conference rival...but it means NDSU is stuck with that play calling and it gets that play calling out of UNI.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Fordham will be in the mix if their defense is improved. With Nebrich running the show, the Rams will be the EWU of the East.

Their schedule does have the potential to produce a couple losses. @ Villanova, Lafayette, @ Lehigh, Penn and @ Army will be tough games. The key will be earning a seed....

[NoDak 4 Ever]

There has been a lot...and I mean A LOT...of frustration with our OC for the last decade or so. Many fans in the UNI fan base point straight to the play calling late in games as the reason that UNI hasn't won a title...or blown it in big games.

UD in 2007 UNI was in complete control and the OC went away from what was working into something completely different and it allowed UD, and Flacco to take full advantage of it.
In 2008...Richmond in the semi's...Up by 6 with 2 minutes left with the ball and UR has 3 time outs but we have the ball at about the 40 yard line. What does he dial up? Jet sweep, off tackle and jet sweet. 3 plays 10 seconds. Ensuing punt sharked and UR has to go only 50 yards on a completely deflated UNI defense, at that point, for the go a head score.

2010 was a complete disaster. Two QBs trying to get the starting job. One a rJr who felt he was the "heir apparent" and the other a JUCO transfer that was more highly regarded than Cam Newton at times in recruiting (I'm not joking on that one sadly). The first a QB UNI is used to having...pocket guy that has enough mobility to do some things. The other a complete wildcat. Coaches fight and fight over who gets the nod. It tears the locker room apart. Rennie gets the nod and Davis, from many accounts, does what he can to sabotage the locker room and Rennie. That would be able to be dealt with if the OC was willing to call plays that suited Rennie. For those that watched him you'd know exactly the plays I'm talking about. With WR like Josh Collins, Jared Herrig, and Sinkfield on the roster, who were all fast as hell, and Rennie not having a big arm (or any arm really) running a ton of 10 yard and less slant, ins, out, roll outs, screens, etc... What does he call in stead? The same offense he is calling with Sawyer and Eric Sanders and Pat Grace (who could throw the ball 60-70 yards from his knees - I watched it happen). A lot of 15+ yard routes...deep drags, flys, posts, flags, stop and go, etc... Rennie NEVER had a chance to succeed.

With Sawyer you see him doing just stuff that makes you shake you head - like exactly what you mentioned.

That's why many UNI fans were "happy"...so to speak...when the rumors of him going to NDSU when Coach K was promoted flared up. It would suck to lose a long time OC to a conference rival...but it means NDSU is stuck with that play calling and it gets that play calling out of UNI.

Good thing Tim Polasek is calling the plays.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[Yotes]

Probably right.

Is the DD going to be sold out when the Bison come down this year?

What are Coyote fans expectations this year?
I'd say the NDSU game is a sure sellout, especially since there is going to be a strong visitor showing.

I really like our offense and front 7 on defense, we've got a lot of talent there. I think every unit looks improved this year, except the secondary. We have to break in an entirely new secondary, and it could kill us. I pray that unit is able to pull together, because we stand to take a huge step forward if they can hold their own. We'll be very good against the run, and we are a threat both on the ground and through the air.

We also bring a lot more depth than we have had the last couple years, the dividends of Joe Glenn redshirting his first recruiting class will be paying off soon. Last year we were greatly hamstrung by the RBs getting injured (lost two in camp, the other two were in no condition to play the final three games, ended up starting QB/WR Josh Vander Maten against SDSU), but we've got them all back and it'll take an Iowa-like sequence of events to replicate what happened last year. We're also sporting like 8 WRs that could start this year, whereas last year we were burning redshirts because we needed more receivers.

Like I said, it all comes down to the secondary. If I knew we could count on that unit, I'd say we go 7-5 (which includes a win over an NAIA opponent). If it ends up being a mess, and we give up bomb after bomb, then we aren't going to be much better than the 4-8 we posted last year. I pray that group spends the summer fully dedicated to learning their position.

2015 is when we start really being a factor in the MVFC. We were led by a bunch of underclassmen last year, this is still a very young team. I really like what I see in the football program, it just takes a long damn time to build a program.

[Yotes]

The Bison have scored 106 unanswered points against USD (spanning two games and the end of a third) since their 4th quarter FG against NDSU in 2010...start there. #babysteps
Not that it's some great achievement, but there is no way we'll see the same game we saw in Sioux Falls and Fargo the last two years. We get at least two scores this year.

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

Good thing Tim Polasek is calling the plays.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD


This here!

Coach P has said he is going to keep the north/south power running game and the west coast offense but said he will take advantage of Wentz' arm....so I think there might be some more deep balls this year.

[Bisonator]

Not that it's some great achievement, but there is no way we'll see the same game we saw in Sioux Falls and Fargo the last two years. We get at least two scores this year.

Couple field goals? xthumbsupx

[Houndawg]

I'd say the NDSU game is a sure sellout, especially since there is going to be a strong visitor showing.

I really like our offense and front 7 on defense, we've got a lot of talent there. I think every unit looks improved this year, except the secondary. We have to break in an entirely new secondary, and it could kill us. I pray that unit is able to pull together, because we stand to take a huge step forward if they can hold their own. We'll be very good against the run, and we are a threat both on the ground and through the air.

We also bring a lot more depth than we have had the last couple years, the dividends of Joe Glenn redshirting his first recruiting class will be paying off soon. Last year we were greatly hamstrung by the RBs getting injured (lost two in camp, the other two were in no condition to play the final three games, ended up starting QB/WR Josh Vander Maten against SDSU), but we've got them all back and it'll take an Iowa-like sequence of events to replicate what happened last year. We're also sporting like 8 WRs that could start this year, whereas last year we were burning redshirts because we needed more receivers.

Like I said, it all comes down to the secondary. If I knew we could count on that unit, I'd say we go 7-5 (which includes a win over an NAIA opponent). If it ends up being a mess, and we give up bomb after bomb, then we aren't going to be much better than the 4-8 we posted last year. I pray that group spends the summer fully dedicated to learning their position.

2015 is when we start really being a factor in the MVFC. We were led by a bunch of underclassmen last year, this is still a very young team. I really like what I see in the football program, it just takes a long damn time to build a program.

So you'll be blitzing a lot this year?

[Houndawg]

Not that it's some great achievement, but there is no way we'll see the same game we saw in Sioux Falls and Fargo the last two years. We get at least two scores this year.

We got two scores against them last year.


Lost 31-10

[chattownmocs]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.

[Mattymc727]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.

YESSSSSS!!!!!

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.

You actually thought that chatty had a chance against the Best of All Time™. What makes you think they wouldn't get thumped again?

[chattownmocs]

You actually thought that chatty had a chance against the Best of All Time™. What makes you think they wouldn't get thumped again?


who?

[Bisonator]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.

Pffftttt. UTC has to earn the right to get thumped by NDSU. So far they haven't come close. Maybe try getting out of the socon first.xlolx

[PaladinFan]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.

You really are unbelievable. UTC couldn't beat a Samford team playing simply awful football at the end of the season with the conference championship in their hands. What makes you think they can beat North Dakota State?

Samford crawled over the finish line to end the season. Furman ran them out of the stadium. Jacksonville State ran them out of the stadium. It took them until the very last play of the game on a miracle to beat awful Elon at home with their season on the line. Oh, and they beat UTC.

[centennial]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.
Even in 2014 chatt is 4 touchdown underdogs. Our 2nd and 3rds would beat chatt.

[citdog]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.


http://www.benelliforum.com/forum/attachments/general-benelli-discussion/7589d1390066191t-2014-benelli-photo-competition-2014-eye-bleach.jpg

[BisonFan02]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.

UTC! Best D line in the history of the FCS!!!................that didn't win anything.

[chattownmocs]

You really are unbelievable. UTC couldn't beat a Samford team playing simply awful football at the end of the season with the conference championship in their hands. What makes you think they can beat North Dakota State?

Samford crawled over the finish line to end the season. Furman ran them out of the stadium. Jacksonville State ran them out of the stadium. It took them until the very last play of the game on a miracle to beat awful Elon at home with their season on the line. Oh, and they beat UTC.

Dude, Furman is a joke. You guys have scored 2 Tds in 3 years against us with your current coach. For a team that uses an injury to a mediocre QB as an excuse for your terrible play early last year you sure do gloss of chattanooga's multiple injuries at the end of last year. I struggle to find an area where Furman is better, let alone how they can beat us. You guys stink.

[PaladinFan]

Dude, Furman is a joke. You guys have scored 2 Tds in 3 years against us with your current coach. For a team that uses an injury to a mediocre QB as an excuse for your terrible play early last year you sure do gloss of chattanooga's multiple injuries at the end of last year. I struggle to find an area where Furman is better, let alone how they can beat us. You guys stink.

Harsh words coming from a fan of a team who is 3-16 against Furman since 1995 with a vast majority of those games being blowouts. The reality is Furman came off the worst season in 20 years and made the playoffs over a UTC team coming off its best season in 20 years.

You know as well as I do Furman is not a joke and they don't stink. If joke teams make the second round of the playoffs, how do you classify UTC?

I don't make excuses for injuries-you play with the players you have. I have said UTC did not play the Furman team that the rest of the SoCon saw the latter part of the season. That is completely accurate. UTC may have won the game anyway (that game was not played), but stick UTC's fourth string freshman quarterback out there (do you even know his name?) and see how good the Mocs are.

[dewey]

Dang, these chump teams are bragging about who got thumped the least by NDSU. Bring NDSU, bring them to chattown, F it, we will go to Fargo. Lets see who these Punks really are in 2014.

That is some funny stuff:-)

Dewey

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

]Dude, Furman is a joke.[/SIZE] You guys have scored 2 Tds in 3 years against us with your current coach. For a team that uses an injury to a mediocre QB as an excuse for your terrible play early last year you sure do gloss of chattanooga's multiple injuries at the end of last year. I struggle to find an area where Furman is better, let alone how they can beat us. You guys stink.



You really believe this? Off your meds?

Furman is going to be very good this year. Young team last year and they will only get better in '14. Their defense should be a top-10 FCS defense in '14.

[citdog]

furman sucks

[Bison Fan in NW MN]

furman sucks

Beat your team.

xlolx

[OL FU]

Harsh words coming from a fan of a team who is 3-16 against Furman since 1995 with a vast majority of those games being blowouts. The reality is Furman came off the worst season in 20 years and made the playoffs over a UTC team coming off its best season in 20 years.

You know as well as I do Furman is not a joke and they don't stink. If joke teams make the second round of the playoffs, how do you classify UTC?

I don't make excuses for injuries-you play with the players you have. I have said UTC did not play the Furman team that the rest of the SoCon saw the latter part of the season. That is completely accurate. UTC may have won the game anyway (that game was not played), but stick UTC's fourth string freshman quarterback out there (do you even know his name?) and see how good the Mocs are.

Chattown is good for a laugh or a smirk, but one should realize that he doesn't necessarily deserve a replyxrotatehx

[PaladinFan]

Chattown is good for a laugh or a smirk, but one should realize that he doesn't necessarily deserve a replyxrotatehx

Oh, I know. Don't feed the trolls. I need to start up a SoCon thread or something. Just ready to talk some football.

[OL FU]

Oh, I know. Don't feed the trolls. I need to start up a SoCon thread or something. Just ready to talk some football.

Sometime feeding the trolls is fun, it is just difficult to find the right poison:)

On the other hand, I am looking forward to this season like no other probably since 2005. Still cautious though last year was like the best of times and the worst of times to go back to British Lit. From what I have heard, the coaches seem pretty pleased with the way spring went.

I wouldn't necessarily put us in the contenders bracket yet but there is certainly reason to think about it. Looking forward to all the games and I am not discounting any of them considering our horrible start last year, but certainly the 4th and 6th game prior to heading into the larger part of conference play (SC State and CCU) should be an interesting look at where we are.