SoCon 2024 Predictions and Power Rankings - Week 8

[FUBeAR]

SoCon Schedule - All games on Saturday, 10/12 & ET














AWAY
HOME

TIME

FOR LATER USE


CIT
VMI
1:30P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54421_VMI-vs-CIT_20241019/stats/)



WOF
CHAT
1:30P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54419_CHAT-vs-WOF_20241019/stats/)



WCU
FUR
2P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54219_FUR-vs-WCU_20241019/stats/)



MER
SAM
3P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54430_SAM-vs-MER_20241019/stats/)





ETSU resting up for their stretch run to the Playoffs - @Woffy, @Mercer, then Home vs. WCU in the next 3 weeks. Good time for a bye.


FUBeAR will return later to drop his, possibly less-than-scientific, SoCon Power Rankings

[OrangeAndBlack]

My favorite stat I noticed on Mercer: 0 points allowed in the 4th quarter all season.

Power Ranks:

Mercer
UTC
WCU
ETSU
Samford
Wofford
Furman
The Citadel
VMI

A lot of road teams expected to win this week.

Mercer @ Samford
Wofford @ UTC
The Citadel @ VMI
WCU @ Furman

I’m not predicting any surprises this week. I just hope Mercer is ready for the Samford air raid.

[FUBeAR]

SoCon Schedule - All games on Saturday, 10/12 & ET














AWAY
HOME

TIME

FOR LATER USE


CIT
VMI
1:30P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54421_VMI-vs-CIT_20241019/stats/)



WOF
CHAT
1:30P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54419_CHAT-vs-WOF_20241019/stats/)



WCU
FUR
2P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54219_FUR-vs-WCU_20241019/stats/)



MER
SAM
3P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54430_SAM-vs-MER_20241019/stats/)





ETSU resting up for their stretch run to the Playoffs - @Woffy, @Mercer, then Home vs. WCU in the next 3 weeks. Good time for a bye.


FUBeAR’s SoCon Power Rankings

After flirting with voodoo and other dark arts to inform his SoCon Power Rankings today, FUBeAR has decided to stick with SCIENCE … with 1 minor caveat…




FUBeAR’s
PowerRank


SoCon
Team


Massey
Projected
Overall Record


Massey
Projected
SoCon Record


Massey
Projected
SoCon
Win %


Massey
Projected
SoCon
Finish


Massey Projected
SoCon W/L Details




1

Mercer (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/4649)

11-1


8-0


1.000


1

Only projected loss is @Bama. FUBeAR is not prepared, at this time to opine regarding his projection of the outcome of that contest, so he will leave Mr. Massey's thoughts in place, for now.



2

[U]Chattanooga (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/7809)

9-3


7-1


0.875


2

loss to Mercer



3

ETSU (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/2321)

8-4


6-2


0.750


3

losses to Chatt & Mercer



4*

Furman (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/2800)

5-6


4-3


0.571


4T

losses to Chatt, ETSU, and Mercer



5

Samford (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/6987)

6-5


4-3


0.571


4T

losses to ETSU, Mercer, and Chatt



6

W Carolina (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/8742)

4-8


3-5


0.375


6

wins over Woffy, CIT, and VMI



7

Wofford (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/9126)

4-8


2-6


0.250


7

wins over CIT & VMI



8

Citadel (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/1545)

3-9


1-7


0.125


8

win over VMI



9

VMI (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/8450)

0-11


0-8


0.000


9

0’fer / 0’fer



* Obviously, Mr. Massey has factored in that Furman has opened 2 new Football Dorms - 1 at Greenville County Hospital and the other @ Sunny Daze Day Care of Travelers Rest. So, FUBeAR will accept Mr. Massey’s careful & thoughtful analysis, but also knows, if either of these Dorms were not absolutely necessary, Furman would be occupying the Paladins’ rightful #1 Spot … #1b this season.

[Milktruck74]

* Obviously, Mr. Massey has factored in that Furman has opened 2 new Football Dorms - 1 at Greenville County Hospital and the other @ Sunny Daze Day Care of Travelers Rest. So, FUBeAR will accept Mr. Massey’s careful & thoughtful analysis, but also knows, if either of these Dorms were not absolutely necessary, Furman would be occupying the Paladins’ rightful #1 Spot … #1b this season.

When Ifs and Buts are cherries and nuts, every day will be Christmas.

[OrangeAndBlack]

Mark down Chatty for a victory over Science last week too.

a dark day in the Furman power rankings!

[Reign of Terrier]

Pick the under for the Wofford-Chatt game.

Our offense may be garbage, but our defense is borderline elite. we’re forcing 2.5 turnovers a game, and our pass defense is pretty stellar. Young guys on the DL in Smoak and Brown have shined the last couple weeks. Our linebackers aren’t 100% healthy but they’ve still shined. DBs are playing well too. I think we’ve picked off the ball 3x as many times as we have let up touchdowns. We have a really good coordinator, and I hope we don’t lose him.

Samford scares me because of the air raid, and Lamb is mischievous, but I like the matchup against Chatt. Unfortunately for Wofford, the modal offensive outcome for Chatt’s FCS opponents’ offense is also 10 points.

[FUBeAR]

When Ifs and Buts are cherries and nuts, every day will be Christmas.
Are you taunting hospitalized and future latchkey kids with NO CHRISTMAS!

SHAME!!

[FUBeAR]

Mark down Chatty for a victory over Science last week
MilkTruck had a victory over Science once … for Non-Science majors - pulled a smooth D-

[Milktruck74]

MilkTruck had a victory over Science once … for Non-Science majors - pulled a smooth D-

As FooBare knows...D stands for DONE with that class!!!

[wcugrad95]

Getting my stoopid rating numbers in early this week. Again, this is based on games vs FCS scholarship opponents.



Team
Games Played
Avg Pts For
Avg Pts Against
Difference
Rank
Avg Passing
Avg Rushing
Total
Rank
Passing Against
Rushing Against
Total
Rank


Chattanooga
4
26.50
15.00
11.50
2
295
128
423
1
155
147
302
2


Mercer
5
27.00
7.20
19.80
1
190
180
370
4
192
44
236
1


ETSU
5
28.80
22.80
6.00
3
182
222
404
2
242
105
347
5


Samford
4
24.00
19.75
4.25
4
247
103
350
5
192
123
315
3


WCU
5
25.20
24.00
1.20
5
270
131
401
3
233
208
441
9


Wofford
6
19.83
21.00
(1.17)
6
210
105
315
7
175
156
331
4


Citadel
6
18.67
27.17
(8.50)
7
187
144
331
6
240
155
395
8


Furman
4
17.75
28.75
(11.00)
8
212
86
298
8
147
214
361
6


VMI
5
12.80
33.20
(20.40)
9
119
116
235
9
248
142
390
7




Breaking it down a little, Mercer is way out in front with total D and point differential, and is a respectable #4 in total offense. No-brainer as the top team with their undefeated record. Chattanooga has quickly risen up to #2 as they have the #1 offense, #2 defense, and 2nd best point differential. But I can't put the Mocs at the top given the H2H with the Bears. Farther down the list Furman would be in a relative tie with Citadel and per these numbers the Bulldogs would be ahead based on the better point differential, but I can't put the Bellhops in front of the Paladins again because of the H2H (although if they played again, I might put money on the men from Charleston).



Mercer
Chattanooga
ETSU
Samford (probably surprises some people, but they are clearly "right there" with the Bucs but might fall hard after this coming Saturday)
WCU
Wofford
Furman
Citadel
VMI


Items of note:

Samford only had 13 rushing yards against ETSU. The Bulldogs are not your typical throw it deep kind of team, so short passes with 0 running game against Mercer will be a tall-order.
I see mentions of Woffy as a borderline elite D, but they give up 21 points per game which would put them in 4th place on average points allowed. They also give up 331 total yards a game which would put them in 4th (just a little ahead of ETSU). They also were helped statistically with just playing VMI. The Terrier's next 3 games - UTC (#3 in scoring and #1 in total offense), ETSU (#1 in scoring and #2 in total offense), and Samford. Arguably the best offense Wofford has played was WCU. Western really should have scored somewhere in the 31 or so point range, but we did have 257 yards passing and 218 rushing (total 475) against that crew.
WCU is oddly way last in total yards given up, but are #6 in average points allowed. I hate the "bend but don't break" anology, as Western also has yet to face 3 of the top 4 total offenses. WCU's own early season sketchy offense seems to be finding some footing and the Cats are now #3 in total offense, but need to score TDs against some of the really good defenses left on the schedule. Had Western not pooped the bed against Campbell they might be as high as #3 on this (and many) lists. But sadly, that game did happen.

[OrangeAndBlack]

Wcugrad95– good to hear that Samford is picking up passing yards with dump passes. I’m sure Samford, as everyone else has, will try for some deep bombs. Princeton tried for a deep pass on the first play of the game, and just missed it.

the tough part is if you hit a deep bomb on the bears but don’t get into the end zone. The defense has given up some big plays (as any unit will), and have then shut the door many times!

[Milktruck74]

Wcugrad95– good to hear that Samford is picking up passing yards with dump passes. I’m sure Samford, as everyone else has, will try for some deep bombs. Princeton tried for a deep pass on the first play of the game, and just missed it.

the tough part is if you hit a deep bomb on the bears but don’t get into the end zone. The defense has given up some big plays (as any unit will), and have then shut the door many times!

Chase just over threw a WIDE OPEN Sam Phillips late in the Mercer/Mocs game. HE would have walked it in....that would have put the game 10-10...who knows at that point. I'll give the bears their due...but DAMN I want that one back!!!! HA. I'm sure if the committee has their way, My Mocs will get a second shot at the Bears in the second round!!! you know thats how they screw the SoCon!

- - - Updated - - -


Wcugrad95– good to hear that Samford is picking up passing yards with dump passes. I’m sure Samford, as everyone else has, will try for some deep bombs. Princeton tried for a deep pass on the first play of the game, and just missed it.

the tough part is if you hit a deep bomb on the bears but don’t get into the end zone. The defense has given up some big plays (as any unit will), and have then shut the door many times!

Chase just over threw a WIDE OPEN Sam Phillips late in the Mercer/Mocs game. HE would have walked it in....that would have put the game 10-10...who knows at that point. I'll give the bears their due...but DAMN I want that one back!!!! HA. I'm sure if the committee has their way, My Mocs will get a second shot at the Bears in the second round!!! you know thats how they screw the SoCon!

[wcugrad95]

I am not saying "dump passes" - Samford uses lots of short passes and schemes to get guys the ball in space. Air-raid has really morphed into lots of different flavors. Samford always has dudes who can go deep, and they also typically have a QB who can distribute the ball. They had 306 passing yards against ETSU on 27 for 37 passing, so 11.33 yards per completion or 8.27 yards per attempt (whichever one you want to use). So don't think of it as if they just dink the ball on bubble screens or tons of check-downs. They attempt to get guys the ball in positions to gain yards after the catch, and I have no doubt they will test Mercer deep on several attempts.

[Milktruck74]

I am not saying "dump passes" - Samford uses lots of short passes and schemes to get guys the ball in space. Air-raid has really morphed into lots of different flavors. Samford always has dudes who can go deep, and they also typically have a QB who can distribute the ball. They had 306 passing yards against ETSU on 27 for 37 passing, so 11.33 yards per completion or 8.27 yards per attempt (whichever one you want to use). So don't think of it as if they just dink the ball on bubble screens or tons of check-downs. They attempt to get guys the ball in positions to gain yards after the catch, and I have no doubt they will test Mercer deep on several attempts.

Yeah, while I hate the idea of throw first offense, many of Sammy's passes are runs in disguise. instead of a toss sweep, its a throw sweep. and they are finding ways to move the ball. I think Mercer has the guys to shut it down, but if the bullpups get in a rhythm, lookout.

[Reign of Terrier]

I see mentions of Woffy as a borderline elite D, but they give up 21 points per game which would put them in 4th place on average points allowed. They also give up 331 total yards a game which would put them in 4th (just a little ahead of ETSU). They also were helped statistically with just playing VMI. The Terrier's next 3 games - UTC (#3 in scoring and #1 in total offense), ETSU (#1 in scoring and #2 in total offense), and Samford.



This is just silly. Wofford has a top 5 pass efficiency defense, and a top 30 total defense, near the top in turnovers forced, and interceptions. Our run defense is only average, but it appears that way because we’ve played like 5 teams that love to run the ball (Richmond, Mercer, William and Mary, VMI, and Western). We’ve had like 5 DPOTW in the socon, and we’re only at midseason. We may get another this week, who knows.

The only offense we have played that was awful was VMI. Everyone else was average or better. In fact, there are few teams as good as William and Mary. 4 of our 6 opponents were top 40 offenses.

And we aren’t giving up 21 points per game. We’ve only allowed 37 points in 3 socon games, and 102 points overall (that’s about 17 points). We’ve given up 25 points on special teams and offense. In fact, through 6 games, Wofford is a top 10 defense in terms of touchdowns given up. I’d agree we were just lucky if we got off the field just once when a team seemingly went up and down the field like western, but stops just happening - against Richmond, GW, Mercer, and yes VMI. The only time it didn’t consistently was W&M, but we got robbed by the refs on a few occasions. one time is luck, but 5-6 times is a trend. Wofford gets big plays at opportune times. If Mercer’s wasn’t so godly, Wofford would be the talk.

Compare that to who Samford and Chatt have played. I can give you ETSU, but West Georgia? Alabama State? Portland State? Furman - who can’t run the ball this year? Come on.

[bonarae]

Mercer @ Samford
Wofford @ UTC
The Citadel @ VMI
WCU @ Furman

Agree with these picks.

[wcugrad95]

ROT - see the foundation of my ratings. It is based on all FCS scholarship games played. In those contests, you are giving up an average of 21 points. 20, 19, 28, 22, 21, 16 is 126 points. Over 6 games that is 21 points per game. You are giving up an average of 175 yards passing and 156 yards rushing. If I take the VMI game out you are giving up on average 193/168 for total of 362/game and average points allowed goes to 22. I could lay the same out for yards given up - it is in the spreadsheet. You are #4 in the SOCON in average yards given up per game.

I am simply pulling the numbers.

[gofurman]

WR Josh Harris (starter) - BEST WR. All conference. out for year
TE Josh Burrell (starter) - transfer from FSU. ESPN 300 ranking. OUT
DB AK Burrell (starter)
WR Santino Varvel
DB Jalen Tate (2 deep)
Spur Justin Hartwell (starter)
Ban Alex Maier (2 deep - would play a lot)
RB Jayquan Smith (2 deep - still out from last year)
LB Raleigh Herbert (2 deep - missed a couple of games). BACK 100% now ?..
DE David Alabi (contributor)
DT Bryce Stanfield (starter)

We were down at least 3 starters before the season even started (Stanfield, Hartwell, Burrell), and since then we have lost at least 2 more for multiple games (Burrell and Harris). Add to that 3 guys from the two deep (Maier, Smith, Tate) and that's a lot of guys we were counting on playing a lot of snaps who aren't going to play a ton or at all for us this year. Not to mention we have a true freshman QB starting now as well. This team was already going to be young, but it's even younger than we all expected.

Someone else mentioned it earlier this week I think, but this team has already faced it's fair share of adversity and is having to grow up on the job very quickly.

———-

8 - Moson at DB ? Citadel game gimpy shoulder - sounds like out for year
40 - this is key to me. Xavier is a HUGE part of our DL. HUGE - sounds like out for year
DL 7 Malachi Harrison. Down. DoesnÂ’t look good.
DL. Now 0 JJ went out v Chatt. ? Game. Ok?. Word is he is ok

THATS ALL THREE STARTING DL POSSIBLY OUT. 40 first team all conference. Out for year. Not sure exact status of 0 JJ. And 7 Harrison ?

It was said that DL 94 Bussey was on crutches. Maybe the best Back up DL!! He backs up 7 at DT I think. Which makes the status of 7 Harrison (and 0 JJ ) even more important !!!

And our single killer All-America candidate - 44 Luke Clark Bandit. was said to have his pads off and going to Locker Room. He cleans up a lot of mistakes for us. Well do we have him anymore?? Best player maybe as All America. What the Â…

This is insane. Seriously.

even in that horrible injury year Wofford wasnÂ’t like this.

I wouldnÂ’t favor us now over anyone but MAYBE VMI. healthy 5 / 6 wins. Now? 3. 4 with some luck. We LITERALLY are missing half of our starters

And again, before you tease me Â… I was sympathetic to Wofford when they went through this.

The positive ? At least we werenÂ’t a playoff team this year anyway 😀

[Reign of Terrier]

ROT - see the foundation of my ratings. It is based on all FCS scholarship games played. In those contests, you are giving up an average of 21 points. 20, 19, 28, 22, 21, 16 is 126 points. Over 6 games that is 21 points per game. You are giving up an average of 175 yards passing and 156 yards rushing. If I take the VMI game out you are giving up on average 193/168 for total of 362/game and average points allowed goes to 22. I could lay the same out for yards given up - it is in the spreadsheet. You are #4 in the SOCON in average yards given up per game.

I am simply pulling the numbers.

Samford has played one top 40 FCS offense and lost.

[Reign of Terrier]

And again, before you tease me Â… I was sympathetic to Wofford when they went through this.



Don’t know what you’re referring to. Wofford hasn’t had a season where we could conclusively say “we’d make the playoffs without injuries” in about 15 years.

Wofford sucked for the last few years because we nuked our program, had a legit psycho leading it, who purged everyone who helped us win.

You want to talk about injuries, Wofford’s been in and out with our best pass rusher out for injury in Maina, David Powers was out half the season, and now Odom’s hurt. Next man up. Heck we are only at about 75% at linebacker, and our solution was to incorporate more of the young guys who are more outside linebackers onto the field, and using a freshman Smoak as a pass rusher in what looks like a 2-4-5, but is more like a 3-3. You have to innovate.

Injuries obviously suck, but Furman is in this position because they had like 60 players last year who were redshirt juniors or better. Maybe not all of them saw snaps, but they were so obviously top heavy in an unprecedented post-COVID situation that would 1000% certain take a HUGE step back, and every even-headed Socon observer knew it. The injuries just make it worse, but the red flags were flying when the Paladins lost to Chuck South.

I’m not saying this to revel in purple pain (my favorite state of the World is when Furman is good and we beat them because I love being your villain), because Lord knows I know how it feels to be laid low as a football fan. A lot of times we football fans think when your team is bad or good, it’s an easy explanation. In reality, this game is silently one of the most chaotic in all sports. Sometimes the easiest explanation is “we are bad.”

The good teams and healthy programs embrace badness as an opportunity to get better and grow. The more you’re in denial of the actual badness, the longer you’ll be down there.

[FUBeAR]

The more you’re in denial of the actual badness, the longer you’ll be down there.
Some professionals disagree with this prescription…

DENY! DENY! DENY!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yN2gU0XU5FU

[The Cats]

Picks:
Wofford (3-3, 1-2 SoCon) at Chattanooga (3-3, 2-1 SoCon)
The Citadel (2-5, 0-4 SoCon) at VMI (0-6, 0-2,SoCon)
Western Carolina (3-3, 2-0 SoCon) at Furman (2-4, 1-1 SoCon)
Mercer (6-0, 3-0 SoCon) at Samford (2-3, 1-1 SoCon)


power rankings:
Last week's ranking are in parentheses.

1. (1) Mercer (6-0, 3-0 SoCon)
Next: at Samford (2-3, 1-1 SoCon)

2. (2) Western Carolina (3-3, 2-0 SoCon)
Next: at Furman(2-4, 1-1 SoCon)

3. (3) Chattanooga (3-3, 2-1 SoCon)
Next: Wofford (3-3, 1-2 SoCon)

4. (5) ETSU (4-3, 2-1 SoCon)
Next: Bye week

5. (7) Samford (2-3, 1-1 SoCon)
Next: Mercer (6-0, 3-0 SoCon)

6. (4) Furman (2-4, 1-1 SoCon)
Next: Western Carolina (3-3, 3-0 SoCon)

7. (6) Wofford (3-3, 1-2 SoCon)
Next: at Chattanooga (3-3, 2-1 SoCon)

8. (8) The Citadel (2-6, 0-4 SoCon)
Next: at VMI (0-6, 0-2 SoCon)

9. (9) VMI (0-6, 0-2 SoCon)
Next: The Citadel (2-6, 0-4 SoCon)

[wcugrad95]

Samford has played one top 40 FCS offense and lost.

I purposefully call them “stoopid ratings” and have pointed out it will take until we all have about 3 or 4 SOCON games under our belts for me to think it is at all solid. Samford could get whacked bad this weekend and all their averages might change. Really any team could.

I’d probably argue WCU should be in front of Sammie because I’d say our wins are better and we are 2-0 in league play, but am just using these to show something on a weekly basis. I use point differential as a tie breaker if teams have basically the same average across the 3 categories (point differential, average yards gained, average yards given up). But I still use H2H as the ultimate decider if 2 teams have the same average.

Just numbers vs my gut.

[FUBeAR]

I purposefully call them “stoopid ratings” and have pointed out it will take until we all have about 3 or 4 SOCON games under our belts for me to think it is at all solid. Samford could get whacked bad this weekend and all their averages might change. Really any team could.

I’d probably argue WCU should be in front of Sammie because I’d say our wins are better and we are 2-0 in league play, but am just using these to show something on a weekly basis. I use point differential as a tie breaker if teams have basically the same average across the 3 categories (point differential, average yards gained, average yards given up). But I still use H2H as the ultimate decider if 2 teams have the same average.

Just numbers vs my gut.
That’s a lot of words just to say…

SCIENCE!

[gofurman]

Don’t know what you’re referring to. Wofford hasn’t had a season where we could conclusively say “we’d make the playoffs without injuries” in about 15 years.

Wofford sucked for the last few years because we nuked our program, had a legit psycho leading it, who purged everyone who helped us win.

You want to talk about injuries, Wofford’s been in and out with our best pass rusher out for injury in Maina, David Powers was out half the season, and now Odom’s hurt. Next man up. Heck we are only at about 75% at linebacker, and our solution was to incorporate more of the young guys who are more outside linebackers onto the field, and using a freshman Smoak as a pass rusher in what looks like a 2-4-5, but is more like a 3-3. You have to innovate.

Injuries obviously suck, but Furman is in this position because they had like 60 players last year who were redshirt juniors or better. Maybe not all of them saw snaps, but they were so obviously top heavy in an unprecedented post-COVID situation that would 1000% certain take a HUGE step back, and every even-headed Socon observer knew it. The injuries just make it worse, but the red flags were flying when the Paladins lost to Chuck South.

I’m not saying this to revel in purple pain (my favorite state of the World is when Furman is good and we beat them because I love being your villain), because Lord knows I know how it feels to be laid low as a football fan. A lot of times we football fans think when your team is bad or good, it’s an easy explanation. In reality, this game is silently one of the most chaotic in all sports. Sometimes the easiest explanation is “we are bad.”

The good teams and healthy programs embrace badness as an opportunity to get better and grow. The more you’re in denial of the actual badness, the longer you’ll be down there.

Y’all had a year similar with a ton of injuries.

A TON. Maybe it was dungeon Joe or law dog or who knows that I spoke with about it. Was 8-10 years ago. While back. Several years ago. NOT this year.

Sure we were gonna step back. Sure. I AGREE. But THIRTEEN SURGERIES - name a team and year with documented THIRTEEN SURGERIES. I cannot name one team in FCS or FBS

[gofurman]

Like 2015 or something. Wofford was decimated with injuries.

Anyway. Hendrix is great. He will take this year and we will learn

[OrangeAndBlack]

The AFCA poll very disrespectful towards the SoCon. Only ranking Mercer. While they opted to include Florida A&M, NC Central, Dartmouth and Jackson State.

At least the Stats Perform poll included Mercer, UTC, and ETSU. WCU was the first team out. Much better poll.

[Reign of Terrier]

The AFCA poll very disrespectful towards the SoCon. Only ranking Mercer. While they opted to include Florida A&M, NC Central, Dartmouth and Jackson State.

At least the Stats Perform poll included Mercer, UTC, and ETSU. WCU was the first team out. Much better poll.

Sweet summer child. Everyone knows the coaches’ boll=the SID poll. And the more things change, the more they stay the same…They suck! Have sucked for 20 years lol

[wcugrad95]

But as mentioned every year, the STATS and Coaches poll has at least some influence in who the teams are that make the playoffs after the AQs are set. If we don't have multiple teams in the rankings, it makes it hard to get more than 2 in. If we only have 2, we all know that those teams historically face-off in the 2nd round. Other conferences will have 4-6 teams in, so they are pretty much guaranteed getting somebody to at least the quarters. Rinse and repeat.

[gofurman]

Agree with the poll stuff

did note that old recency bias is in play. Everyone says Mercer has the best D. Mercer allowed 333 passing and roughly 400 yards passing to Citadel. AT MERCER. Furman - when HEALTHY - allowed 100 yards passing and only 260 yards total to Citadel. AT CITADEL. Hmm

and that despite Furman having NO OFFENSE to help the D. Our D was on the field the whole game ! 38 minutes?

i don’t think that Furman is better. I don’t. Just an interesting data point. But now that we are playing 50 freshman 😀 - literally 6 of our front 7 on D were freshman vs UTC because of the injuries - we probably just can’t hold up.

hooe we beat VMI and Wofford

SUCKS we missed out on Samford. Win or lose we need game practice. YET ANOTHER THING that went wrong this year

1). youth….
2). Our starting DL Player DIED !!!!! - now cmon I don’t want to hear how “that’s football”. That’s BS. I think that’s what gets me some when I read well stuff happens etc. This isn’t normal stuff. And my heart goes out to his parents so much 😢 😔. I cannot imagine
3). Thirteen Surgeries confirmed. If you can name any other team with thirteen surgeries please do so.
4). At one time due to injuries 6 of our front 7 on D were ALL FRESHMAN v UTC.
5. Due to injuries we had all freshman at EVERY skill position on offense. Every single one. Partly due to Josh Harris dismissal. Just weird stuff.
6). Then Samford game cancelled. And we need practice. Win or lose we need to play live games

you start to see how crazy this is. A Death. Storm cancellation. Etc.

[BearDownMU]

Dude, how many times are you going to make the same post? We get it. Furman has had a lot of injuries and bad luck. At this point you could just write "See my last 12 posts." lol

[Reign of Terrier]

FWIW Wofford is down somewhere between 3-5 starters, pending on who you ask, due to injury. Next man up.

Injuries are an explanation for sucking in the present, but if you recruit consistently, it's an explanation that waivers after a couple weeks. The unsung benefit of lots of injuries in the long term is added depth.

In 2024, the better/best FCS programs rotate enough players in and out that it's not an issue (with the exception of OL, which as FU Bear will tell you, relies on a line "gelling" ).

In 2018/2019 when Sam Siefkis was Wofford's DC and we didn't suck (and were very good on defense), he made it a policy to rotate 25 players on defense. I don't know if we are at that point now, but we are definitely closer to 22-23 than 11.

I won't go so far to say we won't take a step back next year (losing 2-4 experienced players in each position group - but many of them are out now with injury, or have been). But I'm seeing sufficient contribution by sophomores/juniors and new faces that I think we'll be good enough. So maybe a step back next year. But the year after that? Strength.

As I said before, Furman's problems this year have more to do with reaping what they sewed last year with having a high concentration of players with 4+ years of experience due to COVID.

[FUBeAR]

Furman's problems this year have more to do with reaping what they sewed last year with having a high concentration of players with 4+ years of experience due to COVID.
Furman…

Season before that = sowing
Prior season = some reaping: some sowing
Last season = reaping; not so much sowing
This season = sowing; much of which has been involuntary
Next season = growing; possibly some reaping
Season after next = reaping

Reaping = FUN
Sowing = not so much fun

Ya got yer farmin’ metaphor all a-foul

[Reign of Terrier]

Furman…

Season before that = sowing
Prior season = some reaping: some sowing
Last season = reaping; not so much sowing
This season = sowing; much of which has been involuntary
Next season = growing; possibly some reaping
Season after next = reaping

Reaping = FUN
Sowing = not so much fun

Ya got yer farmin’ metaphor all a-foul

Reaping is also "having the most experience team in socon history" and then the sewing comes when that experience graduates and you're at something of a deficit of experience. That was my point at least.

Unless you have a very good program with an established cast of coaches that can consistently develop players, and effectively distribute playing time across multiple recruiting classes (like 4+), at this level you can expect step backs every couple of years.

It's rare because those kinds of coaches are usually on the move if they can do that at this level. Or the program itself is the causal variable relative to its conference peers (think Jacksonville State, Kennesaw) and the program itself is off to bigger and better things.

Maybe in the era of the transfer portal, things are slightly changing, but at least in the socon, there aren't enough teams with a massive grad school curricula - if they have one at all (think Wofford, Citadel*, VMI, and Furman* ) - where you can expect too many crazy good *experienced* players coming in and making a big impact. If anything, the Samford approach of taking a million grad transfers to plug in holes is proving meh, while pretty much everyone else's selective approach (I like Wofford's - going after G5 sophomore players buried on the bench who want playing time - both of are starting safeties are these kind of player)


*I'm well aware they have grad programs, but Furman only has a couple and the Citadel has their own recruiting programs due to the military school thing

[FUBeAR]

Reaping is also "having the most experience team in socon history" and then the sewing comes when that experience graduates and you're at something of a deficit of experience.
Nope - as the progeny of NC dirt/tobacco farmers & as an occasional summer laborer in their indenture, FUBeAR knows whereof he speaks on this topic.

Reaping is bringing in the harvest that you have previously sown and grown. The most experienced Team in SoCon history (the crop) could have fallen fallow in the field, but it was successfully harvested (or reaped) providing a wealth of joy at ‘market’ (10 wins, a SoCon Championship & Playoff Success, to an extent) for Furman Fans. 2023 was a season of wonderful reaping of what had been sown and grown in previous seasons. “Having” the large covid-augmented crop was not reaping. Winning was reaping.

Sowing is the hard dirty work of preparing the field and seeding the ground. While not definitive at this point, one would not be making an unfounded assessment if one suspects significantly reduced reaping will occur in PaladinWorld this season. As the field is only X number of acres and a large crop was occupying that field last season, less sowing occurred. To some extent, we may be seeing an impact this season from less sowing last season, but FUBeAR and the other FU Agronomists wouldn’t even think about trading a reduced amount of reaping in ‘23 to have had more sowing.

We good.


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

[Reign of Terrier]

I didn’t read your post because you’re wrong

[wcugrad95]

And getting back to football...

As Samford showed some offensive life (at least in the passing game) last week, can they scheme and throw their way into making a game of it against Mercer on Saturday?
Will Wofford or UTC show up with the best D in Chattanooga? I think the Terriers will have to as the Mocs have the better O.
I always appreciate the Military Classic of the South because of what VMI and Citadel stand for. Do the Keydets have a shot?
And will WCU be able to pull off their first win in Travelers Rest since 2014? Or will the wounded Paladins defend their turf?

Those are the questions I am looking for insight on.

[FUBeAR]

I didn’t read your post because you’re wrong
Fair enough.

Watch the video though. Next to Cool Hand Luke, Being There may be the greatest movie of all time and this scene fits PERFECTLY with our Football / Agro conversation.

[FUBeAR]

And getting back to football...

As Samford showed some offensive life (at least in the passing game) last week, can they scheme and throw their way into making a game of it against Mercer on Saturday?
Will Wofford or UTC show up with the best D in Chattanooga? I think the Terriers will have to as the Mocs have the better O.
I always appreciate the Military Classic of the South because of what VMI and Citadel stand for. Do the Keydets have a shot?
And will WCU be able to pull off their first win in Travelers Rest since 2014? Or will the wounded Paladins defend their turf?

Those are the questions I am looking for insight on.
To your question 1 - FUBeAR posted this (below) to help his good friends on the Samford board. Seems appropriate to also share it here…since you asked….

Mercer’s Offense is not really designed to put up points quickly and Samford’s is. The best thing Samford could do is find a way to get a 2 score lead early. Mercer has not had to play from behind very much at all this season. Wofford held a 3-0 lead for 11:03 in the 1st quarter and that’s it. Beyond that, only CIT was even able to tie Mercer for 3:04 in the 2nd. Neither of those Teams are prone to scoring quickly, so we have no idea how Mercer might respond facing an uphill battle against a quick-strike Offense like Samford’s.

On the other hand, Mercer’s D (and Punt Return/Block and Kick Block Teams) will force an opponent to make mistakes and will score points themselves when that happens.

SU’s QB is talented, but mistakes have seemed to be more common, relatively, to prior Samford QB’s. FUBeAR watched Princeton’s QB try to force some throws against Columbia and expected Mercer was going to have a turnover feast last week. The Bears ate well - a 6 course meal!

But, that said, FUBeAR thinks Samford should throw it or QB scramble EVERY play. There really isn’t much point in trying to, traditionally, run the ball - not with the #109-ranked Rushing Offense averaging 2.69 YPA facing off against the (by far) #1-ranked Rushing Defense holding Teams to 1.48 YPA. Maybe fear of Samford’s strong passing game will open up some running lanes, but Chatt’s Passing O is comparable to Samford, if not slightly ahead, statistically, and the Mocs gained no rushing purchase against the Bears’ D - 1.0 YPA. But - there are stylistic differences in those Passing O’s which could play out differently for Samford. FUBeAR will have to see that to believe it though.

CIT lacks a sophisticated Passing game - very unlike Samford’s, but they had some success chunking it deep. If they didn’t let their pride get the best of them, they would have done that EVERY play, but their ego (and the Coaching manual) told them to try to run the ball (a complete waste of downs) and throw some balls underneath or shorter slants / outs, etc. … and … gave up a quick, crucial Pick 6. Samford will be able to complete some of that shorter stuff, but deep balls should be no less than 40%, maybe 50%, of the calls.

To be competitive, Samford must turn this into a score-no-less-than-in-the-30’s track meet. Mercer will want to win 28-10 with a Defensive and a Special Teams score.


Question 2 - Dunno. FUBeAR thinks Chatt should be an FCS Top 10 Team, maybe higher. So, you can extrapolate to infer what he thinks about the outcome of the game…until his infallible Pick / and 100 accurate score are released later in the week.

Question 3 - Without tipping his Pick too much, VMI hasn’t shown any indication, to date, this season, that they are capable of winning a game in the SoCon. CIT has.

Question 4 - ALMOST certainly not, but if the (nearly) unthinkable should come to pass, don’t even so much as glance in the direction of either goal post while you are exiting the stadium. Just be on your way back to your mountain hovel.

[SU DOG]

Sympathy, thoughts, and prayers for Mercer in the loss yesterday of former OL Andrew Robinson, a Birmingham AL native. I read that he played 2017-2019 and went on to receive a MBA from the school in 2022. He was only 24years old. Good student, player, and sounds like he was an even better person.

[gofurman]

Dude, how many times are you going to make the same post? We get it. Furman has had a lot of injuries and bad luck. At this point you could just write "See my last 12 posts." lol

we had a guy DIE. So I agree about last year being old and this year being young. Sure. I keep up. A lot.

But Personally, if I were on the other side of these posts I would offer my condolences and leave it at that. I would say “I’m gonna leave team X alone based on the death etc”.

there is another key piece you probably aren’t aware of too. And I don’t mean Josh Harris

[gofurman]

Sympathy, thoughts, and prayers for Mercer in the loss yesterday of former OL Andrew Robinson, a Birmingham AL native. I read that he played 2017-2019 and went on to receive a MBA from the school in 2022. He was only 24years old. Good student, player, and sounds like he was an even better person.

huge prayers. Absolutely. And that’s a Former player. Just think if it was a current player…

in any case I pray for him and his family !!!

[BearDownMU]

we had a guy DIE. So I agree about last year being old and this year being young. Sure. I keep up. A lot.

But Personally, if I were on the other side of these posts I would offer my condolences and leave it at that. I would say “I’m gonna leave team X alone based on the death etc”.

there is another key piece you probably aren’t aware of too. And I don’t mean Josh Harris

Wait, what? I want to make sure I'm understanding this correctly. The Furman Football family suffered a horribly tragic event, to be sure, but you're saying that no one should say anything about Furman because of that? Or, more specifically, I shouldn't point out that you're constantly repeating yourself? That's a heckuva position to take.

[SU DOG]

You certainly can't say that Furman is alone in this type of tragedy. I can remember it happening two times at Samford during my years of following the team. One was many many years ago when a player was returning from a light workout, collapsed and died. The other happened in 2003 to Charles Williams who was killed in a freak auto accident in downtown Birmingham. Every season Samford has a player chosen to wear #5 in his memory and honor. There are probably others on here who could also relate similar tragic stories. I seem to remember much sympathy and prayers extended to the family of Bryce Stanfield and me praying for his family.

With this and all their injuries, however, Furman is playing football this season as one would expect, and I imagine the young man would have wanted. To expect other fans to now "leave this team alone" is ridiculous. Should UTC have intentionally taken it more easy on them? No, the Paladins are playing and none of us want to see players injured, but none of us will offer condolences and sympathy for the Furman Team during this season. I don't think I have heard Coach Hendrix asking for sympathy for his team. Repeating the Furman injury situation ad nauseum is totally unnecessary, and saying other fans should leave this team alone, IMO, should be re-thought.

[FUBeAR]

Y’all are all very mean and FUBeAR hates it here!

Going to the Samford, Chatt, CIT, and WCU boards where people will be much nicer to FUBeAR and to Furman!

[Reign of Terrier]

Wofford lost Brandon Maina, often called our best player by his own teammates, for the season. I hope he gets a medical redshirt (only played 4 games) for his sake, regardless of if he’d use it with us.

Next man up.

[SU DOG]

We'll sure miss you and your over 12,000 posts FUB. However, I have a feeling your absence will be clocked in minutes rather than days, LOL!

[FUBeAR]

We'll sure miss you and your over 12,000 posts FUB. However, I have a feeling your absence will be clocked in minutes rather than days, LOL!
FUBeAR is back. Seems those people on those other boards were even meaner!

LOVE Y’ALL!!!

[wcugrad95]

Sadly, every school most likely has a similar kind of story. At Mercer, Foobs outlined a series of other athletes and students this year plus we now have the former player SUDOG called out. Cam Brown was a prized LB recruit for WCU back in 2016/2017 who by the time he got to campus found out he had a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. Not long before he passed away, from his hospital bed he told the coaches to "Tell the boys to never give up on the fight, because the fun is in the fight!"

That motto I believe is still up and displayed in the team room.

Damn shame on all of these, but especially heartbreaking when you think about this happening to what are generally considered some of the healthiest and strongest students on our campuses.

[FUBeAR]

Sadly, every school most likely has a similar kind of story. At Mercer, Foobs outlined a series of other athletes and students this year plus we now have the former player SUDOG called out. Cam Brown was a prized LB recruit for WCU back in 2016/2017 who by the time he got to campus found out he had a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. Not long before he passed away, from his hospital bed he told the coaches to "Tell the boys to never give up on the fight, because the fun is in the fight!"

That motto I believe is still up and displayed in the team room.

Damn shame on all of these, but especially heartbreaking when you think about this happening to what are generally considered some of the healthiest and strongest students on our campuses.
Don’t think FUBeAR has said much of anything on this topic in this series of posts. Seems well-covered without FUBeAR’s input.

Will echo SU Dog, though, and offer/ask for prayers for Mercer’s former OLman, Andrew Robinson, and his family/friends/Teammates. He was a good Player and a sweet, funny kid. He was, as they call it, a “Double Bear” (undergrad and grad degrees from MU). Tragic loss of another young man - way too soon.

As it is often said… ”Check on your people.”

If you have the slightest inkling they might need a lift, or a hand, or an encouraging conversation, you are almost certainly correct. Act on your intuition.

[wcugrad95]

FUBeAR - first, absolutely agree with what you are saying. It wasn't in this thread (heck - could have even been on a different board), but I thought I remembered you highlighting several injuries and hardships that hit multiple students and athletes at Mercer earlier this year. So not just football, but across the university. Apolgoies if I mis-remembered that.

[FUBeAR]

FUBeAR - first, absolutely agree with what you are saying. It wasn't in this thread (heck - could have even been on a different board), but I thought I remembered you highlighting several injuries and hardships that hit multiple students and athletes at Mercer earlier this year. So not just football, but across the university. Apolgoies if I mis-remembered that.
OK - got ya - yeah - Mercer Football Player with recent (CIT) in-game, apparent, cardiac event - recovering - great work from EMT’s. Soccer Player died last year from cardiac event during pick-up Soccer game. Recently Student dying from cardiac event after getting hit in chest with ball during intramural soccer game, and women’s XC for Wesleyan - a partner-school of Mercer’s dying from cardiac event during XC meet at Mercer’s Home Course … which is actually Middle Georgia College’s Home Course, in Milledgeville. And, now this former Football Player.

Yep - that’s a lot. Didn’t catch your accurate reference.

[FU_Paladin08]

Week 8 Rankings:
Mercer
Chatt
WCU
ETSU
Wofford
Samford
Furman
CIT
VMI


Picks:
Furman beats WCU
UTC beats Wofford
The Citadel beats VMi
Mercer beats Samford

[gofurman]

Wait, what? I want to make sure I'm understanding this correctly. The Furman Football family suffered a horribly tragic event, to be sure, but you're saying that no one should say anything about Furman because of that? Or, more specifically, I shouldn't point out that you're constantly repeating yourself? That's a heckuva position to take.

let me explain. The backstory. First I have children. I can’t imagine. Is Furman alone in this? No. You are right.

but We were honoring the young man - Bryce Stanfield - with a moment of silence at our first home game this year.. CSU. and I heard the CSU players mocking him ( a DEAD kid) as they left the field in victory. I’ve just never gotten over that. I was in the stands. A few - few not most by any means - said “Hell we killed Furman and that dead player!!!” And walked away laughing. I. Was. Shocked. We all said that **** comes from a coach who allows it. At least in part - As the game got very chippy. What is this CSU coach teaching these kids? I have a new most hated team…. Charleston Southern. Please beat the Shiite out of them.

Does that apply to y’all’s teams.? No. And so I apologize for the projection. Just never got over that.

again, apologize for the projection. Honestly haven’t been back to a home game since then.

[The Cats]

Week 8 Rankings:
Mercer
Chatt
WCU
ETSU
Wofford
Samford
Furman
CIT
VMI


Picks:
Furman beats WCU
UTC beats Wofford
The Citadel beats VMi
Mercer beats Samford

WOW... You rank Furman 7th, and Western 3rd, but you pick #7 to beat #3. That's a head scratcher...

Obviously, you don't believe your own rankings...

[ElCid]

WOW... You rank Furman 7th, and Western 3rd, but you pick #7 to beat #3. That's a head scratcher...

Obviously, you don't believe your own rankings...

Not necessarily. His ranks are possibly just proven history, not predictions. Maybe he is calling the upset. Everybody does it their own way. I don't necessarily rank mine, when I do them, based on anticipated H2H results.

[Reign of Terrier]

Imagine arguing about which team will win and not embracing the chaos and beauty of college football. Arguments and analysis are for sunday morning fellas. Chatt has every right to be favored against Wofford, but we run on vibes now!

[FUBeAR]

FUBeAR found some new Science. Not sure he likes it though. May require more study.

https://theanalyst.com/2024/08/introducing-fcs-football-tracr-metric

https://i.postimg.cc/MZnHw96J/IMG-1438.jpg

[FUBeAR]

FUBeAR’s PICKS & POWER RANKINGS

SoCon Schedule - All games on Saturday, 10/12 & ET














AWAY
HOME

TIME

IMAGINE THIS


CIT
VMI
1:30P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54421_VMI-vs-CIT_20241019/stats/)
The bullets will be flying in this Classic! It will be one Team’s ground attack against the other Team’s air assault…or something like that. Anyway, VMI has the Home ground, but no one wants a war fought on their own soil. GiantRodents will give it the ol’ Institute try, but Coach Drayton continues to make incremental improvements in his bellhop squad. They don’t do anything great, but they have shown they can adapt to do what they need to do to cobble together some semblance of success. So, as they are toting the luggage back in ChuckTown, one of those Samsonites will contain the coveted Corn-Dog-on-a-Flower-Pot Trophy

CIT 31 - VMI 17


WOF
CHATT
1:30P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54419_CHAT-vs-WOF_20241019/stats/)
Now that the SnakeBirds have driven their train back onto a winning track and have completed celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, they are turning their beaks and arrows toward a trap game. After getting their noses rubbed in it for 3 straight weeks, giving the RatDogs GiantRats to hunt at home last week felt like a day at the Dog Park for the PursePups. Despite letting the cheese get taken away with errant bait-tossing 3x, Woffy’s QB2 wasn’t sacked, so he actually gained some confidence last week. Chatt usually finds a way to Chatt it up during a late season SoCon game and they are thinking 2 weeks ahead to a revenge date in Cullowhee, so they will play sloppy, but they’ve scheduled smart this year and are saving trying to overcome their perennial late-season melt-down until their finale against APSU. It may be tight, but the Mocs find a way to stay on track.

CHATT 27 - WOFF 19


WCU
FUR
2P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54219_FUR-vs-WCU_20241019/stats/)
The BabyPaladins are hurting. They remind FUBeAR a lot of FU’s ‘79 Team that had a losing record, but then reeled off 3 straight SoCon Championships. The KittyCats allowed the bellhops to march all over the lobby of the Whitmire Hotel last week, so there are definitely hot spots in that lilac-colored fur. Despite the persistent peals of their own Bell, oftentimes this season, the Cantamount’s vaunted Offense has been completely AWOL or, evidently, replaced by their Soccer Team (kicking to score … get it?). The armor-battered Knights capitalize on the latter and find a way to maneuver their ToddlerWalkers and Wheelchairs into just the right positions to play great Red Zone D. Then the Paragons of Virtue return to their virtuous and glorious ways finding a way to RUN THE DANG BALL against WCU’s suspect D. It’s close, but it’s Homecoming and Paladins Prevail.

FURMAN 17 - WCU 15


MER
SAM
3P (https://nextgen.soconsports.com/fb/game/54430_SAM-vs-MER_20241019/stats/)
Samford is dangerous and, as always has a host of villains on their squad, but Mercer’s Defense is a relentless SWAT Team. Mercer’s QB1 is said to be returning from injury and he may want to have a “Statement” game, but FUBeAR hopes not. Let the Mercer D+ST Boa Constrictor do what it does and use the Offense, primarily, to detain the Samford O in the holding cell on the Home Sidelines of Some-New-Guy’s-Name Stadium.

Sorry…for a minute there, FUBeAR mixed up the “Tips & Reminders” text that Coach Jacobs demands FUBeAR sends to him every week with FUBeAR’s picks. The Bears follow the FUBeAR plan and continue their march to a well-Seeded Playoff run.

Mercer 28 - Samford 20




ETSU resting up for their stretch run to the Playoffs - @Woffy, @Mercer, then Home vs. WCU in the next 3 weeks. Good time for a bye.


FUBeAR’s SoCon Power Rankings

After flirting with voodoo and other dark arts to inform his SoCon Power Rankings today, FUBeAR has decided to stick with SCIENCE … with 1 minor caveat…




FUBeAR’s
PowerRank


SoCon
Team


Massey
Projected
Overall Record


Massey
Projected
SoCon Record


Massey
Projected
SoCon
Win %


Massey
Projected
SoCon
Finish


Massey Projected
SoCon W/L Details




1

Mercer (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/4649)

11-1


8-0


1.000


1

Only projected loss is @Bama. FUBeAR is not prepared, at this time to opine regarding his projection of the outcome of that contest, so he will leave Mr. Massey's thoughts in place, for now.



2

[U]Chattanooga (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/7809)

9-3


7-1


0.875


2

loss to Mercer



3

ETSU (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/2321)

8-4


6-2


0.750


3

losses to Chatt & Mercer



4*

Furman (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/2800)

5-6


4-3


0.571


4T

losses to Chatt, ETSU, and Mercer



5

Samford (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/6987)

6-5


4-3


0.571


4T

losses to ETSU, Mercer, and Chatt



6

W Carolina (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/8742)

4-8


3-5


0.375


6

wins over Woffy, CIT, and VMI



7

Wofford (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/9126)

4-8


2-6


0.250


7

wins over CIT & VMI



8

Citadel (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/1545)

3-9


1-7


0.125


8

win over VMI



9

VMI (https://masseyratings.com/cf2024/8450)

0-11


0-8


0.000


9

0’fer / 0’fer



* Obviously, Mr. Massey has factored in that Furman has opened 2 new Football Dorms - 1 at Greenville County Hospital and the other @ Sunny Daze Day Care of Travelers Rest. So, FUBeAR will accept Mr. Massey’s careful & thoughtful analysis, but also knows, if either of these Dorms were not absolutely necessary, Furman would be occupying the Paladins’ rightful #1 Spot … #1b this season.[/QUOTE]

[FU_Paladin08]

Not necessarily. His ranks are possibly just proven history, not predictions. Maybe he is calling the upset. Everybody does it their own way. I don't necessarily rank mine, when I do them, based on anticipated H2H results.
^^^ding ding ding
Who wants to just pick the team with the better record? Isn’t this site called “any given Saturday,” suggesting any team could win each week?

[kdinva]

UTC 33; Wofford 17
WCU 24; Furman 17
Mercer 34; samford 17
VMI 20; The Citadel 16

[OrangeAndBlack]

UTC 33; Wofford 17
WCU 24; Furman 17
Mercer 34; samford 17
VMI 20; The Citadel 16

If VMI is gonna win a game, it makes sense it would be this one. How much more motivation can they get!? Also I think it's funny that every winning team allows 17, except VMI holding their opponent to 16 xlolx

[ElCid]

UTC over Wofford by 17
WCU over Furman by 10
Mercer over Samford by 8
The Citadel over VMI by 6

[Reign of Terrier]

Okay, so I have been tempted to say this every week I have seen the pick ems, and have been validated (which just means i’ll jinx it this week and be wrong). For the folks thinking Wofford will lose 17-20 and giving up 30, you do realize Wofford has to give up 30 first right?

If William and Mary was the closest at 28 and needed to be bailed out by spots to keep a drive going, it doesn’t bode well. I could see ETSU or Samford being the team to reach that threshold, but not Chattanooga. Remember, Chattanooga struggled with an inferior Wofford team on both sides of the ball last year.

[ElCid]

Okay, so I have been tempted to say this every week I have seen the pick ems, and have been validated (which just means i’ll jinx it this week and be wrong). For the folks thinking Wofford will lose 17-20 and giving up 30, you do realize Wofford has to give up 30 first right?

If William and Mary was the closest at 28 and needed to be bailed out by spots to keep a drive going, it doesn’t bode well. I could see ETSU or Samford being the team to reach that threshold, but not Chattanooga. Remember, Chattanooga struggled with an inferior Wofford team on both sides of the ball last year.

Chatty had been steadily improving the last three games and is on an upswing. Also, W&M is probably a bit overrated.

[wcugrad95]

And I know we didn’t, but Western coulda/shoulda put up at least 30 against the Terriers. Missed FGs, funky TO in the redzone, etc. And before you say the Wofford D caused that, we have done it several times this season. So I will not be surprised to see Wofford give up some points to several of the teams they have left. I had mentioned it earlier, but 3 of the more capable SOCON offenses are still on Woffy’s schedule with Chattanooga, ETSU, and Samford your next 3 games. Won’t be shocked to see all 3 score between 24-34 points.

[Reign of Terrier]

And I know we didn’t, but Western coulda/shoulda put up at least 30 against the Terriers. Missed FGs, funky TO in the redzone, etc. And before you say the Wofford D caused that, we have done it several times this season. So I will not be surprised to see Wofford give up some points to several of the teams they have left. I had mentioned it earlier, but 3 of the more capable SOCON offenses are still on Woffy’s schedule with Chattanooga, ETSU, and Samford your next 3 games. Won’t be shocked to see all 3 score between 24-34 points.

I would agree with you, but Wofford also forced those stops and turnovers against Mercer, Richmond, and VMI, on top of your catamounts. Wofford is #5 in the country in forced turnovers, and we almost certainly practice the linebacker tip drill and forcing fumbles. I typically side on turnovers being random, but the amount of stops of various kinds suggest something much different.

[Reign of Terrier]

Chatty had been steadily improving the last three games and is on an upswing. Also, W&M is probably a bit overrated.

William and Mary lost to Towson with the difference being a scoop and score. Towson is a bubble team. I think they’re easily top 15 with a top 10 offense.

[ElCid]

William and Mary lost to Towson with the difference being a scoop and score. Towson is a bubble team. I think they’re easily top 15 with a top 10 offense.

Yeah, I'm not saying W&M is bad. They are ok, but they are certainly not as good as Chatty right now. Maybe I'm too high on UTC, but looking at the common Furman results certainly says quite a bit. And overall W&M has beaten up on bad teams (VMI, Hampton) and only won by a score or two against average teams (Wofford, Furman). Towson is entirely too inconsistent still. They have one good win. Two pitiful wins.

[Reign of Terrier]

I don’t want to overhype things, but I think I saw Amari Odom warming up on the Wofford football IG story

[Reign of Terrier]

Official Word: Wofford’s hoping Odom to be back in the next couple of weeks.

[Reign of Terrier]

Wofford's offense isn't playing as bad as last week with self inflicted wounds but Chattanooga is just beating us on too many plays.

[Reign of Terrier]

Chattanooga's ESPN+ crew is the most amateur. Went to a commercial break right when Wofford started it's possession. We missed that drive completely. Awful and amateur.

[kdinva]

VMI 10, The Citadel 6, halftime. After Citadel's first (60 yard) drive, VMI's def. has gotten tough, VMI has missed chances, like a def. scoop and score called back (12 men on field), one missed FG, two missed end zone passes (good bulldog Def)

[ElCid]

Mercer off to shaky start. Three and out and 20 yard punt.

[Reign of Terrier]

Samford just scored. This is the game to watch.

[ElCid]

Mercer not up for this game. Getting thumped.

[ElCid]

I thought Mercer might get a poll promotion with Nova shytting the bed. But they are falling apart.

[Reign of Terrier]

Two things to watch with Mercer down 28-0 in the first quarter:

1) they aren't built for a comeback

2) lol I was going to say this has the makings of a comeback game but Samford scored a touchdown halfway through the comment.

[caribbeanhen]

just turned on the Samford game and boom 28-0 wow

[Mocs123]

Bad news for the Bears as they're not built for a comeback. Samford always seems to be spoiler to someone as they can beat anyone when their offense is rolling.

Mercer going down might be good for the Mocs, but probably not a good thing for the SoCon as a whole.

[Milktruck74]

Somebody Check on FooBare...seem like I've said that a few weeks in a row. Is he in the fetal position rocking back and forth with a bottle of purple titos?

[Reign of Terrier]

Meanwhile, Chatt marches down the field to go up 17-5, then Wofford answers by throwing a pick inside our RedZone, Chatt scores two plays later.

Wofford is amazing pathetic on offense. Amari Odom helps us be average but we just suck so amazingly much.

[Reign of Terrier]

Samford, Western, and ETSU are better offenses than any Mercer has faced. It doesn't help that they turned the ball over 3 times, but still. Mercer's offense is not built for comebacks.

[ElCid]

UTC pouring it on now. 24-5 now.

[Reign of Terrier]

The most frustrating thing about wofford's offense is that we have done basically nothing to innovative on offense. We're running the same plays and the same concepts that just don't work. Our receivers can't catch, but our quarterbacks and OL are not poor fundamental players. What we are running is just hot garbage, and there's just no incentive or will to innovate.

[OrangeAndBlack]

Setting records for all the wrong reasons.

[wcugrad95]

I have no idea how the WCU @ Furman game is 17-6. WCU has a TO on a punt return, gave up a KO return for a TD, and has missed a short FG. Oh - that is how.

Western with 353 passing yards in the first half and 394 total yards. Furman with 61 total yards. And they are still only down 11 points!!!

[Milktruck74]

SoCon....Gonzales has 350 yards passing in the first half. Crittendenm has 6 completions for 4 TDs...Just a SoCon kinda day!

[Milktruck74]

Woffy finds a nice way to get a first down on a fake punt...and then UTC gets the int in the Endzone....returned to the 35.

[ElCid]

My Dogs make great goal line stand from the 1! 4 tries. Turn over on downs. Only 99 yards to go. If I was VMI I would have kicked for 3.

[Reign of Terrier]

Woffy finds a nice way to get a first down on a fake punt...and then UTC gets the int in the Endzone....returned to the 35.

Wofford is mathematically eliminated from contending in this game.

[Reign of Terrier]

It's wild that Shawn Watson has coached at the power 5 level and yet is in over his head in the ****ing socon when it comes to running an offense.

[OrangeAndBlack]

The conservative play by the Mercer staff is concerning:

4th and 1 near midfield: punt (Samford TD next play)

4th and 5 at SAM40: Punt (Samford reached the 40 in 2 plays)

4th and 4 at SAM27: FG miss (would be kickers all time long, not enough leg).

[Reign of Terrier]

The conservative play by the Mercer staff is concerning:

4th and 1 near midfield: punt (Samford TD next play)

4th and 5 at SAM40: Punt (Samford reached the 40 in 2 plays)

4th and 4 at SAM27: FG miss (would be kickers all time long, not enough leg).

This works when you're up 13-3 or so. Mercer has to shake this and realize they are down 21...

[Mocs123]

The conservative play by the Mercer staff is concerning:

4th and 1 near midfield: punt (Samford TD next play)

4th and 5 at SAM40: Punt (Samford reached the 40 in 2 plays)

4th and 4 at SAM27: FG miss (would be kickers all time long, not enough leg).

That sounds like Chattanooga playcalling. We're super conservative.

[Milktruck74]

Somewhere in the middle of the quarter the Fighting FooBares are down 59-13

[BearDownMU]

This was always the worry. We aren't built to play from behind or go fast when everything goes wrong.

[Reign of Terrier]

That sounds like Chattanooga playcalling. We're super conservative.

The difference is that Chattanooga has a decent QB and their running game is so simple that they rely on the strength of their players. Just run downhill. Mercer goes a little more zone i think.

[OrangeAndBlack]

This was always the worry. We aren't built to play from behind or go fast when everything goes wrong.

I’d at least go to Newbauer at QB for the 2nd half. 2 turnovers by Smith and uninspired play.

it really does feel the coaching staff hasn’t adjusted their play calling for being behind in this game. So conservative. The staff are “rookies” in the FCS. They’re gaining some knowledge today (hopefully!).

[wcugrad95]

WCU doing non-WCU things. We usually come out and fade and we score 2 third quarter TDs. Western now with 31 points and 576 yards.

Furman with 99.

[Milktruck74]

My Dogs make great goal line stand from the 1! 4 tries. Turn over on downs. Only 99 yards to go. If I was VMI I would have kicked for 3.

Hindsight and all, but I'll bet the wish they had a chance to make a different decision on that 4th down play!

[ElCid]

Well, it was ugly, but we somehow pulled it out.

[Milktruck74]

I’d at least go to Newbauer at QB for the 2nd half. 2 turnovers by Smith and uninspired play.

it really does feel the coaching staff hasn’t adjusted their play calling for being behind in this game. So conservative. The staff are “rookies” in the FCS. They’re gaining some knowledge today (hopefully!).

That is a difficult place to be as a coach. You realize a comeback is not going to happen...but you don't want kill the confidence of your QB for the rest of the season...but do you do more damage by leaving him in there?

[OrangeAndBlack]

I thought Mercer might get a poll promotion with Nova shytting the bed. But they are falling apart.

Maine rips Nova, with former Mercer QB leading Maine (Carter Peevy)

Mercer thumped by SAM.

A well earned win by SAM, but it’s the disaster scenario I mentioned in previous weeks threads. SAM’s overall record isn’t great, so the SoCon is going to be downgraded by the pundits.

[Reign of Terrier]

Wofford is going to be spectacular as soon as we find an average offense lol

[OrangeAndBlack]

That is a difficult place to be as a coach. You realize a comeback is not going to happen...but you don't want kill the confidence of your QB for the rest of the season...but do you do more damage by leaving him in there?

good points. A tough day and week lies ahead.

[ElCid]

Okay, so I have been tempted to say this every week I have seen the pick ems, and have been validated (which just means i’ll jinx it this week and be wrong). For the folks thinking Wofford will lose 17-20 and giving up 30, you do realize Wofford has to give up 30 first right?

If William and Mary was the closest at 28 and needed to be bailed out by spots to keep a drive going, it doesn’t bode well. I could see ETSU or Samford being the team to reach that threshold, but not Chattanooga. Remember, Chattanooga struggled with an inferior Wofford team on both sides of the ball last year.

There is always the first time. I think UTC is the real deal. I bet they wished they Mercer later than they did.

[kdinva]

Well, it was ugly, but we somehow pulled it out.

ElCid's defense the second half the key, especially stopping VMI FOUR times from the two.....and VMI doesn't have a QB who can break 5 seconds in the 40. VMI's receivers are fast in practice in shorts, but game day they look like they are wearing 25-lb boots, easy to defend. plus missing two Field goals, plus a scoop & score nullified by a penalty, these things get under the skin of VMI's players (should not, though).

the game in 2022 in Lex. had a similar 4th quarter, Citadel finally hooked up on a long pass, then Bulldog's defense did the rest.

[wcugrad95]

UTC didn’t go crazy with yards because they didn’t need to. Got the lead, extended it, then coasted with their D. They were no doubt the best 0-3 team in America a few weeks ago.

[Reign of Terrier]

There is always the first time. I think UTC is the real deal. I bet they wished they Mercer later than they did.

I knew I was tempting fate with that post but you only live once.


UTC didn’t go crazy with yards because they didn’t need to. Got the lead, extended it, then coasted with their D. They were no doubt the best 0-3 team in America a few weeks ago.

They had a good first 20 minutes, and maybe one other drive, but we gifted them at least 2 TDs, in the same way they gifted us 5 points.

[wcugrad95]

Gonzales just fit 500 yards passing and WCU is now over 600. Cole also has 3 passing TDs. Furman scored on their last drive or we probably would have taken him out.

- - - Updated - - -

Sorry - he just threw his 4th and now has 520.

[Milktruck74]

There is always the first time. I think UTC is the real deal. I bet they wished they Mercer later than they did.

The Mocs Needed a third WR to emerge as the real deal in order to become a really good FB team. With Sam Phillips (FCS Receiving yards/game leader) going down last week game Chris Domercant the chance to step up and fill spot. He was by far the best option today with 6 grabs for over 100 yards. We have achance to start playing really well in the back half of the season.

- - - Updated - - -


There is always the first time. I think UTC is the real deal. I bet they wished they Mercer later than they did.

The Mocs Needed a third WR to emerge as the real deal in order to become a really good FB team. With Sam Phillips (FCS Receiving yards/game leader) going down last week game Chris Domercant the chance to step up and fill spot. He was by far the best option today with 6 grabs for over 100 yards. We have achance to start playing really well in the back half of the season.

[Milktruck74]

I know it is against everything Hatcher finds holy, but can he try to run the ball a little and run the clodk down? Try taking 35 seconds between plays? Of will he hurry up his way into letting the bears back into it? that Nascar offense is great as long as you move the ball anbd score.

[Reign of Terrier]

The reassuring thing for Wofford is that Furman sucks and we have a chance against the, and the citadel.

[wcugrad95]

I know Bell wanted to send a message to the team this week about finishing teams off, but I think if we weren’t back down on the 1 yard line after an impressive goal line stand he wouldn’t have put Cole back in. Instead WCU drives 99.5 yards and Cole throws his 5th TD. All of it in the air, so he has 620. It is a SOCON record.

[caribbeanhen]

Somewhere in the middle of the quarter the Fighting FooBares are down 59-13

good golly what the heck is going on here

[Milktruck74]

dont look now but hatcher is trying his best to give the bears all the time they need to score 4 more unanswered TDs. THe

're-sub" on Defense is smart...but the offense needs to figure out a way to eat some clock...don't snap it for 35 seconds between plays.

[Mocs123]

The reassuring thing for Wofford is that Furman sucks and we have a chance against the, and the citadel.

The Terriers just need to upgrade their wideouts and give their line more time to transition from option play to more of a spread look. They're a year or two out.

[Mocs123]

I'm not sure that Mercer losing is good for the SoCon, despite it probably helping the Mocs in their chase for a SoCon crown. While we know Samford is dangerous- what voters are going to see are the Bears losing to a team that lost to West Georgia. The Bulldogs are always a dangerous team.

[Milktruck74]

Sammy AD just reached out to Joe Pizzo to see how fast he can get to homewood to call plays in the 4th quarter. RUN THE BALL HATCH!

[Mocs123]

There is always the first time. I think UTC is the real deal. I bet they wished they Mercer later than they did.

Or want that dropped TD pass we had against the Bears. That's football though, and I thought the Bears defense was elite - not sure what happened today.

[Milktruck74]

When I said the Bears are not a "play from behind" team....Clearly, I know nothing about the game with points on the ball!

[ElCid]

Mercer mounting quite the comeback. Only down by 14 now.

[ElCid]

Over 800 yards for WCU now. That's just weird.

[Milktruck74]

Mercer mounting quite the comeback. Only down by 14 now.

Sammy finally moving the chains and marching down the field...but leaving a ton of clock!

[ElCid]

If Mercer can score now and bring it within 7, they will win. Epic comeback of the decade if they do

[wcugrad95]

Coach Bell was very upset with the team last week. On his weekly show he talked about wanting to celebrate every win because none come easy, but he was all over the team about finishing things off, and developing the step on your opponent’s throat mentality. I don’t know what we’ll get out of the Cats given the next 3 games are @ Mercer, UTC, and @ ETSU but today I honestly think he was trying to deliver the message to his team more than he was Furman.

And very tough times for Furple. Those young guys are taking lumps but they’re going to get better.

[ElCid]

I think Mercer just blew it with a fumble, Samford scoop and score. That could be game. Plus Mercers QB down.

[Milktruck74]

If Mercer can score now and bring it within 7, they will win. Epic comeback of the decade if they do

Hatcher's D.....may be helping to keep them from losing this one.

[OrangeAndBlack]

I think Mercer just blew it with a fumble, Samford scoop and score. That could be game. Plus Mercers QB down.

ya that’s a wrap. The comeback was in the works, too.

I think that’s the first 4th quarter points “allowed” by Mercer. But it was a gift from the offense.

[wcugrad95]

And look out - Samford may be wanting that Furman game at the end of the year now.

[Milktruck74]

I'll give the bears their due...coming out of the locker room down 42-7 and playing to win takes heart. and it ain't over yet...but getting closer.

[ElCid]

If it wasn't over, it is now.

[OrangeAndBlack]

I don’t think any SoCon team has given Mercer more problems than Samford. It’s becoming a bit of a curse. I guess this is kinda how WCU must feel.

[wcugrad95]

WCU hadn’t won in Travelers Rest since 2014… until today.

[ElCid]

I don’t think any SoCon team has given Mercer more problems than Samford. It’s becoming a bit of a curse. I guess this is kinda how WCU must feel.

Samford is a sneaky good team sometimes. Their ability to score quickly always makes them dangerous. With a game light, and possibly one or two losses still to come, they are just spoilers though. But they could go 8-3 theoretically.

[wcugrad95]

Not playing Furman could possibly even play in their favor. Let’s say they go 6-1 and several teams go 6-2. Or they go 5-2 and several of us go 5-3. Will they be the SOCON champs? No room for a game at the end since the playoffs start, right? And the champs in that scenario I think would be the best winning percentage.

[Milktruck74]

WCU - We are gonna hang half a hundred on a conference foe to show our Offense is for real.

Sammy - Hold my Beer!!!

[BearDownMU]

What'd we turn the ball over 7 or 8 times today? Definitely can't do that. Among other things. Sammy's offensive game plan was perfect in the first half. Having a bunch of short fields helped, but it was just an avalanche from the start. Props to the boys for staying in it and scoring 21 in the 3rd, but the Smith fumble when we were trying to make it a 1 score game was the coffin nail. Great performance by the Bulldogs.

[Reign of Terrier]

The Terriers just need to upgrade their wideouts and give their line more time to transition from option play to more of a spread look. They're a year or two out.

We haven't run the option since 2019.

[Reign of Terrier]

I don’t think any SoCon team has given Mercer more problems than Samford. It’s becoming a bit of a curse. I guess this is kinda how WCU must feel.

Believe me, your troubles with Samford could be much worse. This is a sweet summer child comment by my standards lol

[Milktruck74]

What'd we turn the ball over 7 or 8 times today? Definitely can't do that. Among other things. Sammy's offensive game plan was perfect in the first half. Having a bunch of short fields helped, but it was just an avalanche from the start. Props to the boys for staying in it and scoring 21 in the 3rd, but the Smith fumble when we were trying to make it a 1 score game was the coffin nail. Great performance by the Bulldogs.'s

Hope Smith injury was just a case of the game getting out of hand...hope he is healthy next week. the bears continued to fight and I know how hard it iws to be down that much and still fight. lots of heart.

[BearDownMU]

's

Hope Smith injury was just a case of the game getting out of hand...hope he is healthy next week. the bears continued to fight and I know how hard it iws to be down that much and still fight. lots of heart.

Not gonna say this out loud, but so far the O looks like it has more pep in its step with Newbauer. lol

[ElCid]

Not gonna say this out loud, but so far the O looks like it has more pep in its step with Newbauer. lol

Or was it a case of I need to play hero? And he played above himself?

[BearDownMU]

Or was it a case of I need to play hero? And he played above himself?

I mean, maybe? But he's a true Freshman and he's done that 2 weeks in a row now.

[ElCid]

So WCU "only" ran for 149 yards today. Compared to their passing yards of 652, not much. Less than 20% of the total. Not a significant stat until you realize it was still, by far, the best rushing total of any of the 8 teams in action today. Only my Bulldogs were the only other team to hit 100 yds rushing besides WCU. I'm tempted to place this on the Furman D, and they do deserve some credit, albeit dubious credit, but WCU might be hitting their stride at the right time.

If they win their next three games, they could win the conf championship.... A tall order, but not that farfetched.

[Reign of Terrier]

I think Western, chatt, and mercer are your playoff contenders

[OrangeAndBlack]

Believe me, your troubles with Samford could be much worse. This is a sweet summer child comment by my standards lol

could be worse! But I do think that since Mercer joined the SoCon, no team has been a tougher out (and in huge spots!). Maybe Furman. But Samford has denied Mercer when it matters most.

[Mocs123]

Mercer has certainly been a thorn in the side of Chattanooga since they joined the SoCon. The Mocs have always seemed to be a problem for Samford - for whatever reason we seemed to have had their number. Of course who knows what could/might happen this year, but it is odd how some teams always seem to struggle with certain teams.

[wcugrad95]

I think it is your typical SOCON race to the finish. It might be different teams, but at least a few teams will have head-scratchers, at least 1 team will play above their expected level, and we’ll have several teams heading into the last 2 weeks with a chance either at playoff spots or even the conference championship.

[Reign of Terrier]

could be worse! But I do think that since Mercer joined the SoCon, no team has been a tougher out (and in huge spots!). Maybe Furman. But Samford has denied Mercer when it matters most.

Wofford has lost like 10 straight to Samford. Doesn’t matter how good Wofford is or how bad Samford is. Wofford losing to samford in 2017, 2018, and 2019 may have cost as playoff seeding. Possibly with 2016 too.

[tallgeorgiagent]

Wow!! Western Carolina with 801 yards total offense


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[kdinva]

Wow!! Western Carolina with 801 yards total offense

that is four games' worth for VMI

[OrangeAndBlack]

Wow!! Western Carolina with 801 yards total offense


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Next week it’s the immovable object vs. the irresistible force! WCU and their insane passing offense vs. Mercer who they haven’t defeated in about a decade.

[The Cats]

https://twitter.com/NCFootballNews/status/1847801123148562794

[wcugrad95]

Orange and Black - weren’t you this past week talking about how bad Samford was? WCU may lay another Campbell egg next week, or we might find out that maybe UTC laid an egg earlier and Mercer had really just beaten up on a bunch of really bad teams. Thinking last year (or the last few) has anything to do with this year is sometimes foolish - especially in this league (heck - VMI won the conference not that long ago). Mercer might beat WCU but it won’t be because of any previous games.

I think Mercer offensively might actually be better with your backup, but I’d prefer him over a more athletic QB. That has been our Achilles heel this year.

Your immovable object today gave up 446 yards against a team who really didn’t even try to run the football. You’ll blame the TOs but those yards were gained and Samford’s offense still scored 42 of those points.

[OrangeAndBlack]

Orange and Black - weren’t you this past week talking about how bad Samford was? WCU may lay another Campbell egg next week, or we might find out that maybe UTC laid an egg earlier and Mercer had really just beaten up on a bunch of really bad teams. Thinking last year (or the last few) has anything to do with this year is sometimes foolish - especially in this league (heck - VMI won the conference not that long ago). Mercer might beat WCU but it won’t be because of any previous games.

I think Mercer offensively might actually be better with your backup, but I’d prefer him over a more athletic QB. That has been our Achilles heel this year.

Your immovable object today gave up 446 yards against a team who really didn’t even try to run the football. You’ll blame the TOs but those yards were gained and Samford’s offense still scored 42 of those points.

a little out of context — I was saying Samford body of work is bad, which was true. They earned a nice win today though and I agree they’re legit. But they shot themselves in the foot to begin the season. Bad loss and squeaked by another bad team.

yes Mercer was bad today! The immovable object is the fact that WCU can’t beat Mercer no matter what year it is. That’ll change eventually, but it hasn’t yet! Foolish? Maybe. But a streak this long can’t be ignored.

[wcugrad95]

You said basically if Samford was a strong team in the SOCON the conference was bad. Samford is 3 scores better than Mercer.

It is common for league teams to screw up either early or late in this conference. Part of that is because the teams know each other so well and we play every team every season. UTC might have given up a seed because of their early season schedule. Samford may miss the playoffs because of a canceled game. The list goes on and on. What is almost certain is very few teams ever go undefeated, and usually multiple teams lose games most people would have never thought they would lose.

[wcugrad95]

And has anybody done a wellness check on FUBeAR???

[OrangeAndBlack]

You said basically if Samford was a strong team in the SOCON the conference was bad. Samford is 3 scores better than Mercer.

It is common for league teams to screw up either early or late in this conference. Part of that is because the teams know each other so well and we play every team every season. UTC might have given up a seed because of their early season schedule. Samford may miss the playoffs because of a canceled game. The list goes on and on. What is almost certain is very few teams ever go undefeated, and usually multiple teams lose games most people would have never thought they would lose.

we’re basically on the same page. I said if Samford is in the mix (obviously they are now), that we’re in trouble as a group. Meaning we’re going to be viewed poorly on the national scene. A scene where we’re already viewed a little poorly. Not good. And to be clear, this is not fair to Samford. It’s just the way it is based on their early season tumble. The pundits will look for any way to keep us down. One more bid to the Big Sky or MVFC. Barf.

and yes let’s send a squad car to FuBears house. I’m depressed so I can’t imagine his current condition!

[The Cats]

And has anybody done a wellness check on FUBeAR???

Foobear is missing in action, but his "two best teams in the SoCon" both lost badly today, he just hasn't thought of a good comeback yet.

However he will pick Mercer/Furman as 1a and 1b in his weekly power ranking for next week, regardless of their wins or losses...

[ElCid]

What is almost certain is very few teams ever go undefeated, and usually multiple teams lose games most people would have never thought they would lose.

Very true. Since 2010 only three teams have gone undefeated in conf play.

2014 - UTC 7-0
2016 - The Citadel 8-0
2022 - Samford 8-0

During that same time, the number of teams blowing playoff spots or championships from late season losses borders on the ridiculous. Familiarity plays a huge part.

[ElCid]

Foobear is missing in action, but his "two best teams in the SoCon" both lost badly today, he just hasn't thought of a good comeback yet.

However will will pick Mercer/Furman as 1a and 1b in his weekly power ranking for next week, regardless of their wins or losses...

Now, now, let's be fair. He did rank Furman fairly far down the list this week, relatively.

[Reign of Terrier]

Wow!! Western Carolina with 801 yards total offense


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


that is four games' worth for VMI

wofford would like to get in on that…it’s allowed to have more than 300 yards?

[Milktruck74]

So WCU "only" ran for 149 yards today. Compared to their passing yards of 652, not much. Less than 20% of the total. Not a significant stat until you realize it was still, by far, the best rushing total of any of the 8 teams in action today. Only my Bulldogs were the only other team to hit 100 yds rushing besides WCU. I'm tempted to place this on the Furman D, and they do deserve some credit, albeit dubious credit, but WCU might be hitting their stride at the right time.

If they win their next three games, they could win the conf championship.... A tall order, but not that farfetched.

Except the Mocs racked up 176 yards on the ground today...and stopped trying, because they didn't need to do more.

[ElCid]

Except the Mocs racked up 176 yards on the ground today...and stopped trying, because they didn't need to do more.

Oh, how'd I miss that. I looked at each box scores in detail. I'm sick in bed on drugs. Yeah,that's it.

[Milktruck74]

[QUOTE=ElCid;3216308]Oh, how'd I miss that. I looked at each box scores in detail. I'm sick in bed on drugs. Yeah,that's it.[/QUOTE


We will letr this once slide, but never AGAIN!!! Congrats on the sivler phallic helmet thinggie!

- - - Updated - - -

[QUOTE=ElCid;3216308]Oh, how'd I miss that. I looked at each box scores in detail. I'm sick in bed on drugs. Yeah,that's it.[/QUOTE


We will letr this once slide, but never AGAIN!!! Congrats on the sivler phallic helmet thinggie!

[FUBeAR]

Spotting ‘em 21 points in the 1st 4 minutes and then winning the remaining 56 minutes of the game by only 1 point has proven, once again, to be an unsuccessful approach.

FUBeAR thought Coach Jacobs would have known that, but he’s new to D1 Football. FUBeAR doesn’t think we’ll see him & the Bears try that strategy again.

—————

FUBeAR is still mystified as to why the SoCon’s and NCAA’s Offices rejected Furman’s application for a Team Redshirt this season. FUBeAR was advised it would be accepted. Oh well, proud of the Paladins for standing up each week and demonstrating truth to power. Death to the Tyrants!

[Mocs123]

I wish Coach Jacobs would have learned that lesson against the Mocs. I'd feel pretty good with a 21 point lead 7 minutes in the game.

[gofurman]

good golly what the heck is going on here

this was actually a LIE. Western won 52 - 20. Furman is in a total rebuild. But whomever posted Western has 59 points was completely off base.

at least use FACTS. FACTS I SAY.

how could Western have 59 points with time left when they finished with 52 ??? I guess that’s what they teach as new math in mountains???

see the link -

https://www.espn.com/college-football/scoreboard/_/group/29

[gofurman]

WCU hadn’t won in Travelers Rest since 2014… until today.

right. Good stat. Wow. I just looked. Furman TWENTY WINS to 4 for Western counting yesterday. TWENTY to FOUR. using year 2000 as the line of demarcation …. And we won some immediately before that too. I was kinda shocked it was that one sided. 20. - 4. ? Wow. Yall really struggle to beat us. Never winning at Furman. Heck we won last year AT Culowhee with your best team in years …. But don’t worry see my next line, not being an azz.

that said, CONGRATS on the win today ! CONGRATS. YOU ABSOLUTELY KILLED US. Though I will say we are HORRIBLE. H O R R I B L E. I mean it’s like putting up yards on VMI right now. LOL. We might beat VMI. Maybe. Win somewhere from 2 - 4 games this year. GOT CITADEL. Stetson. Maybe Vmi. Maybe Wofford.

and before someone says that this is all I repeat. Well OUR FREAKIN COACH - who doesn’t whine and is a very straight shooter - the COACH (Hendrix. Very Well respected ) said “I don’t know who I have left to play now without using all the redshirts.. He said “ I might play 2 new guys for 2 games. And 2 other guys for the last 2 games to maintain redshirts. I don’t know who we have left “

that is rough. 2 new freshman to be replaced by two other new freshman to maintain redshirts. SO 2-4 MORE new guys going in….

what gives us hope is (like the record vs Western) we KNOW Hendrix is a great coach. He is. I’ve seen bad Furman Coaches. Hendrix is very very good. As the last two years have shown. Heck. His first year he inherited a 3-8 team and went something like 7-4. We have won the conference and been to the playoffs several times with Coach Hendrix. Just have to suffer through this year and hope to get some experience and maybe a little talent infusion for next year.

anyway. I hope the SoCon playoff teams do well ! If that’s Western then I wish you well !

probably some of Mercer, Western, and Chattanooga right now have the best chance. For western I hope that Campbell loss doesn’t come back to bite yall

[kdinva]

Gonzales is STATS National offensive player of the week.....

https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/10/stats-perform-fcs-national-awards-week-8


https://twitter.com/NCFootballNews/status/1847801123148562794

[The Cats]

this was actually a LIE. Western won 52 - 20. Furman is in a total rebuild. But whomever posted Western has 59 points was completely off base.

at least use FACTS. FACTS I SAY.

how could Western have 59 points with time left when they finished with 52 ??? I guess that’s what they teach as new math in mountains???

see the link -

https://www.espn.com/college-football/scoreboard/_/group/29

As foosbear likes to say, it's "reading comprehension" I guess you don't have it. Not a single WCU fan said anything about having or scoring 59 points in that beatdown. So much for your "new math in the mountains".

[Reign of Terrier]

As a sidenote, I 100% believe Western throwing for as many yards as they did was because Kerwin Bell wanted to rub it in. Historically (the last 5-7ish years) Furman teams have smacked down Western teams that had a lot going for them, keeping them out of the playoffs.

Given that context, I wouldn’t have a problem with it.

[ElCid]

Furman sucks.

[gofurman]

As foosbear likes to say, it's "reading comprehension" I guess you don't have it. Not a single WCU fan said anything about having or scoring 59 points in that beatdown. So much for your "new math in the mountains".

actually…. IT WAS SAID. Dumbazz.

just by a UTC guy. But it WAS said. Check your facts before you spew off. Making your school look dumb - a SMART guy would have done his research, and replied to the ilk of “ well, yeah that was said, but by a UTC guy”. Instead you imply it was never said. My wife is an attorney. She never ceases to be amazed at the ignorance on this board. You could - and should - have worded you reply better.

here it is. Direct quote “
Somewhere in the middle of the quarter the Fighting FooBares are down 59-13

[gofurman]

As a sidenote, I 100% believe Western throwing for as many yards as they did was because Kerwin Bell wanted to rub it in. Historically (the last 5-7ish years) Furman teams have smacked down Western teams that had a lot going for them, keeping them out of the playoffs.

Given that context, I wouldn’t have a problem with it.

nope. Or at least William and Mary kneeled the ball. On the 3 yard line! Furman does the same. I’ve seen it. We did vs Mercer in Lamb’s last year there. And we have kept them From Conference Titles etc. You play to win. But up 20+ with 7 minutes left it’s STUPID to keep your starters in. Here’s why

1.. right or wrong you piss off the opponent. They might take cheap shots at your QB. We sacked Gonzalez with about 7 minutes left. If I were a Western fan I woulda been PISSED at Bell thinking why is this guy in there.

2… you NEED practice for backups. Here’s your chance. 20 more reps for starters isn’t worth the same as 20 reps for backups. That’s why the same teams - Clemson, Bama , UGA keep winning. Because their 2nd string are ready to go with tons of reps from blowouts. I’ve heard Kirby Smart make that exact statement. And he’s the most successful of the past few years. Says he looks to play 2nd guys as often as he can if a blowout. He even mentioned protecting his starters that was too.


reign of Terrier, Here’s the FACTS. I don’t think it substantiates what you say as you said we “smacked down” Western teams that have a lot going for them. Yes we OWN THEM. OWN THEIR AZZ.
TWENTY TWO to FOUR in last 26 games. That’s almost hard to fathom. Here are the scores. FACTS

here’s the scores of the last 5 to 7 years you mentioned —-
But Furman won last year 29-17 etc. That was a great Western team.. top 10 matchup.
the year prior Furman won 47 - 40.
the year prior Western won 43 - 42
the year before that FU won 35 - 7. Covid year maybe ?
the year prior FU won 28 - 7.
the year prior FU won 44 - 38. 2018. So this is your 5 to 7 year reference.

there’s FACTS. I don’t see Furman RUBBING IT IN /.” Smack down” as you say as a pattern. Win by 12. Win by 7. Lose by 1. Win by 28. Win by 21. Win by 6. Those aren’t smack downs.

I don’t think Bell was justified … not by your logic. Bell ran it up by more than ANY of our wins that you mention as last 5 to 7 years. That Shiite will come to back to bite you. Now that I see all the data I hope Western loses … a lot

[Milktruck74]

actually…. IT WAS SAID. Dumbazz.

just by a UTC guy. But it WAS said. Check your facts before you spew off. Making your school look dumb - a SMART guy would have done his research, and replied to the ilk of “ well, yeah that was said, but by a UTC guy”. Instead you imply it was never said. My wife is an attorney. She never ceases to be amazed at the ignorance on this board. You could - and should - have worded you reply better.

here it is. Direct quote “

Calm Down!!!

Quotes must always be taken in context....While my fingers were ahead of my mind...the actual post should have read, "somewhere in the middle of the FIFTH quarter, the fighting Foobares are down 59-13." This WAS FACTUAL! At that particular moment, the Traveler's Rest (Berea North) arm of the Fighting FooBares was down 17-6 and the Maconga campus was behind 42-7. So, the Fighting Foobares in the Fifth quarter were FACTUALLY down 59-13!

[Milktruck74]

Also, it is quite common on this board for fans of single SoCon teams to refer to Foobie's dual citizenship (or split personality) and combined Saturday results from both his allegiances...especially when a combined score yields a losing overall effort. This Saturday was just an opportunity to pour it on extra strong!

[Milktruck74]

All my apologies for my alcohol induced oversight causing a rift amongst my SoCon brethren.

[gofurman]

All my apologies for my alcohol induced oversight causing a rift amongst my SoCon brethren.

no harm man. You are a good fan... if only Western people would do FACT CHECKING. Hmm.. that's a big thing these days, no? jk, moving on

[The Cats]

http://twitter.com/Catamounts/status/1848855792038121687

[The Cats]

"FCS National Awards on Campus"

(https://x.com/OptaAnalystFCS/status/184905847283644032twitter)
https://twitter.com/OptaAnalystFCS/status/1849058472836440325