AGS Poll - Week Five Results

[AGSPoll]

Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

(First place votes in parenthesis), Points
1. James Madison (106) 3027
2. Appalachian St. 2711
3. Montana (7) 2709
4. McNeese St. (3) 2579
5. Cal Poly 2245
6. Richmond 2229
7. New Hampshire (3) 2166
8. Eastern Washington 1936
9. Wofford 1885
10. Northern Iowa 1827
11. Southern Illinois (1) 1796
12. Villanova (1) 1791
13. North Dakota St. 1675
14. Elon 1531
15. Furman (1) 1437
16. Delaware 1376
17. Massachusetts 1250
18. The Citadel 979
19. South Dakota St. 947
20. Central Arkansas 692
21. Western Illinois 631
22. Liberty 599
23. Jacksonville St. 356
24. Northern Arizona 271
25. Sam Houston St. 159
Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Georgia Southern (34), Hampton (28), Eastern Illinois (22), Montana St. (22), Tennessee St. (18), Prairie View A&M (17), William & Mary (16), Lafayette (13), Youngstown St. (13), Weber St. (12), Brown (7), San Diego (5), Tennessee-Martin (5)

MOST SIGNIFICANT WIN OF THE WEEK: Villanova
MOST SIGNIFICANT LOSS OF THE WEEK: Richmond

--------------

Press Release:

AGS Poll Week Five: James Madison Takes Over No. 1

Chicago, IL -- The Dukes of James Madison University are the new No. 1 in the AnyGivenSaturday.com (AGS) Poll of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) this week, garnering 106 first place votes.

Following the Dukes in the top ten were (in order): Appalachian State, Montana, McNeese State, Cal Poly, last week's No. 1 Richmond, New Hampshire, Eastern Washington, Wofford, and Northern Iowa.

The full results are listed below.

Six other teams received first place votes including Montana (7), McNeese State (3), New Hampshire (3), Southern Illinois (1), Villanova (1), and Furman (1).

A total of 13 squads received at least the five votes required to receive mention outside of the top 25.

The Colonial Athletic Association, the FCS’s largest league, lead the way with six teams in the Top 25; the Southern and the Missouri Valley Football Conferences placed five each; the Big Sky and Southland Conferences had three each, and the Ohio Valley, Great West Football, and Big South Conferences were represented with one squad.

Villanova improved the most gaining five spots while Richmond and Northern Iowa fell the furthest, five spots each. Eastern Illinois, Georgia Southern, Youngstown State, and Harvard all dropped from the top 25 as Liberty, Jacksonville State, Northern Arizona, and Sam Houston State entered at No. 21 to 25 respectively.

The pollsters also named Villanova's win over Richmond as both the Most Significant Win and Significant Loss Of The Week.

* * *

AGS is the world’s largest online community devoted to all of the FCS and has been hailed as "the largest collection of FCS afficionados on the planet." The AGS Poll was created in 2004 to give distinguished members of the AGS community a place to voice their opinion, vote for the top 25 FCS programs in the nation, and provide the media and coaches of FCS a valuable resource to gauge general sentiment.

In comparison to other polls, the AGS Poll had as many or more of it’s preseason top 25 on it’s final regular season poll than either of the other two polls (coaches and media) had on their’s since their inception four years ago. The AGS Poll also had as many or more of it’s preseason top 25 on it’s final regular season poll make the playoffs than either of the other two polls the past four years.

In order to ensure that the poll is accurate and fair, a committee of AGS veteran members has established guidelines for voter eligibility and accountability. The AGS Poll will be announced weekly throughout the season on Mondays and a final poll will be announced shortly after the National Championship game.

Complete rankings:

Team (First-place votes) Record Points Previous Rank
1. James Madison (106) 4-1 3027 2
2. Appalachian State 2-2 2711 4
3. Montana (7) 4-0 2709 3
4. McNeese State (3) 2-1 2579 6
5. Cal Poly 2-1 2245 7
6. Richmond 3-2 2229 1
7. New Hampshire (3) 4-0 2166 9
8. Eastern Washington 2-2 1936 8
9. Wofford 3-1 1885 11
10. Northern Iowa 2-2 1827 5
11. Southern Illinois (1) 2-1 1796 15
12. Villanova (1) 3-1 1791 17
13. North Dakota State 2-2 1675 10
14. Elon 4-1 1531 12
15. Furman (1) 4-1 1437 16
16. Delaware 2-2 1376 14
17. Massachusetts 2-1 1250 13
18. The Citadel 3-1 979 20
19. South Dakota State 3-2 947 18
20. Central Arkansas 4-1 692 19
21. Western Illinois 2-2 631 21
22. Liberty 4-0 599 NR
23. Jacksonville State 3-1 356 NR
24. Northern Arizona 3-1 271 NR
25. Sam Houston State 2-1 159 NR

Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Georgia Southern (34), Hampton (28), Eastern Illinois (22), Montana State (22), Tennessee State (18), Prairie View A&M (17), William & Mary (16), Lafayette (13), Youngstown State (13), Weber State (12), Brown (7), San Diego (5), Tennessee-Martin (5).

Dropped out: Eastern Illinois, Georgia Southern, Youngstown State, Harvard.

MOST SIGNIFICANT WIN OF THE WEEK: Villanova
MOST SIGNIFICANT LOSS OF THE WEEK: Richmond

[WrenFGun]

This is the best poll I've seen, yet. I believe I had 23 of the 25 teams that got ranked, ranked, though I did have Lafayette and Hampton ranked in my poll (if I remember correctly). Nice work on the positioning as well, pollsters, though I think it still might be far-fetched to see UNH (three), 'Nova (one), Furman (one) and SIU (one) getting first place votes.

Congrats to James Madison on being #1.

[appfan2008]

who is voting furman, siu, and villanova first?

[93henfan]

UNH=too low

[appfan2008]

UNH=too low

they sure are doing well and beating everyone pretty soundly

[brownbear]

I had 23 of 25 also (I had Lafayette in at 22 and Brown at 24, instead of Jacksonville State and Northern Arizona).

I had JMU #1, but I had McNeese at #2 and UNH at #3

[smallcollegefbfan]

who is voting furman, siu, and villanova first?

While I don't think Villanova should have a #1 vote I do think they are underrated. They should be top 10 at this point. The Furman and SIU #1 votes are very wacky. I don't understand how Villanova beats Richmond and has one less loss but is still ranked behind them. That makes no sense. I had Richmond at like 9 and Villanova at #7.

[RabidRabbit]

who is voting furman, siu, and villanova first?

xlolx xlolx Well, we know it's not the same voter! xnodx xnodx :p

[jlcharles]

Thanks to whoever voted Nova 1, but you're crazy! xsmiley_wix

[brownbear]

I assume the SIU vote is a Northern Iowa fan

[danefan]

I had 24 of 25 with GSU in instead of Sam Houston.

pretty close.

[RabidRabbit]

Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

(First place votes in parenthesis), Points
1. James Madison (106) 3027
2. Appalachian St. 2711
3. Montana (7) 2709
4. McNeese St. (3) 2579
5. Cal Poly 2245
6. Richmond 2229
7. New Hampshire (3) 2166
8. Eastern Washington 1936
9. Wofford 1885
10. Northern Iowa 1827
11. Southern Illinois (1) 1796
12. Villanova (1) 1791
13. North Dakota St. 1675
14. Elon 1531
15. Furman (1) 1437
16. Delaware 1376
17. Massachusetts 1250
18. The Citadel 979
19. South Dakota St. 947
20. Central Arkansas 692
21. Western Illinois 631
22. Liberty 599
23. Jacksonville St. 356
24. Northern Arizona 271
25. Sam Houston St. 159
Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Georgia Southern (34), Hampton (28), Eastern Illinois (22), Montana St. (22), Tennessee St. (18), Prairie View A&M (17), William & Mary (16), Lafayette (13), Youngstown St. (13), Weber St. (12), Brown (7), San Diego (5), Tennessee-Martin (5)

MOST SIGNIFICANT WIN OF THE WEEK: Villanova
MOST SIGNIFICANT LOSS OF THE WEEK: Richmond

McNeese St and Cal Poly - SDSU Rabbits' next two games, both in Brookings. xeekx Hopefully, if the Jacks can pull these out at Brookings, we may see them out of the high teens (but do need to win them, or Jacks will fall out)

[appfan2008]

conference breakdown:
CAA= 6
SOCON= 5
MVFC= 5
Big Sky= 3
SLC= 3
OVC= 1
Big South= 1
Great West= 1

The Big Sky and SLC are on the rise...

[appfan2008]

I had 24 of the 25 teams with the exception being Hampton instead of Sam Houston St
Week 5
Approved
1. James Madison
2. Montana
3. McNeese St.
4. Cal Poly
5. Appalachian St.
6. Eastern Washington
7. Wofford
8. New Hampshire
9. Elon
10. Southern Illinois
11. Villanova
12. Richmond
13. Northern Iowa
14. North Dakota St.
15. Massachusetts
16. Furman
17. Western Illinois
18. Liberty
19. The Citadel
20. Delaware
21. South Dakota St.
22. Hampton
23. Northern Arizona
24. Jacksonville St.
25. Central Arkansas
W. Southern Illinois
L. Richmond

[93henfan]

I had 24 of the top 25. No Sam Houston St yet for me, though they are certainly deserving of getting in at this point.

[93henfan]

conference breakdown:
CAA= 6
SOCON= 5
MVFC= 5
Big Sky= 3
SLC= 3
OVC= 1
Big South= 1
Great West= 1

The Big Sky and SLC are on the rise...

The CAA and SoCon numbers can easily go up by one each with big wins by GaSou or W&M.

[89rabbit]

McNeese St and Cal Poly - SDSU Rabbits' next two games, both in Brookings. xeekx Hopefully, if the Jacks can pull these out at Brookings, we may see them out of the high teens (but do need to win them, or Jacks will fall out)


We need to get healthy fast! xeekx

[Appguy]

I know its the W that counts but who really thinks Montana is #3 after barely beating a D2 school? or does the final score not tell the whole story?
I put them at least a few spots lower than that.

[OL FU]

I voted for JMU number one. But it seems to me that number is wide open. I think JMU deserves it but it is also the fall back position to the team that beat APP. Look for number one to get crazier as time passes unless JMU doesn't lose another gamexnodx

[OL FU]

I know its the W that counts but who really thinks Montana is #3 after barely beating a D2 school? or does the final score not tell the whole story?
I put them at least a few spots lower than that.

All teams can have an off week. This one was a little surprising but let's face it, Samford hadn't done anything to make anyone think they would give Elon a close game (IMHO)

[Seven Would Be Nice]

who is voting furman, siu, and villanova first?

xflaggedx xflaggedx xflaggedx

xhomerx xhomerx xhomerx
xhomerx xhomerx xhomerx

xdohx xdohx xdohx xdohx

[PurpleandGold]

can't be homers because their ballot would be thrown out.

[SunCoastBlueHen]

I know its the W that counts but who really thinks Montana is #3 after barely beating a D2 school? or does the final score not tell the whole story?
I put them at least a few spots lower than that.

Should a 2-2 team without a quality win be #2? xeyebrowx

[patssle]

Should a 2-2 team without a quality win be #2? xeyebrowx

Should McNeese who is 2-1 with D2 and NAIA wins be #4?

[GOKATS]

I know its the W that counts but who really thinks Montana is #3 after barely beating a D2 school? or does the final score not tell the whole story?
I put them at least a few spots lower than that.

Same thoughts, I had the griz at #6 and that's as high as I've had them this year.

[Ivytalk]

I actually dropped Montana a couple notches after the Griz performance last week. It was a tough poll at the bottom of the bracket.

[AGSPoll]

I can state with certainty that teams receiving only one vote for #1 did not have that vote provided by a supporter of that team. I can state with almost certainly, change that to, almost all of the votes for teams receiving a few #1 votes were not provided by supporters of said teams. It may very well be that none of the votes were from supporters of said teams, but I am way too tired of looking a friggin ballots to go back and check right now:p xrotatehx xlolx

[appfan2008]

Should a 2-2 team without a quality win be #2? xeyebrowx

no... its everything else...

look at who the losses were...

and our record the last three years speaks for itself...

I have us at #5 and that is up from last week so it aint me putting them up there

[appfan2008]

I can state with certainty that teams receiving only one vote for #1 did not have that vote provided by a supporter of that team. I can state with almost certainly, change that to, almost all of the votes for teams receiving a few #1 votes were not provided by supporters of said teams. It may very well be that none of the votes were from supporters of said teams, but I am way too tired of looking a friggin ballots to go back and check right now:p xrotatehx xlolx

Thanks for all you do... where would we be with out your services xbowx

[AGSPoll]

Thanks for all you do... where would we be with out your services xbowx

Your welcome. but I am sure AGS would find some other dumbass to do it:o :)

[Appguy]

Should a 2-2 team without a quality win be #2?
nope, thats why I had us at 4 I think...
besides at least we played an actual FCS team even if they are the "Blue Hos" in addition to LSU and JMU

[UNHWildCats]

Your welcome. but I am sure AGS would find some other dumbass to do it:o :)
But he wouldnt be purple in the face. xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx

[WrenFGun]

I really don't think there's anyone who is a clearcut #2. Montana has a quality win over Cal Poly (and another quality win over UC Davis, despite their record), and Appalachian State has Armanti Edwards and their pedigree. Neither are a particularly strong candidate for #2. Richmond now has two losses, and people don't seem to think Villanova or UNH are for real. I'd love to hear people's opinions on their top 6 or 7, because I had a real hard time with it.

[ericsaid]

montana way too high.

[UNHWildCats]

I really don't think there's anyone who is a clearcut #2. Montana has a quality win over Cal Poly (and another quality win over UC Davis, despite their record), and Appalachian State has Armanti Edwards and their pedigree. Neither are a particularly strong candidate for #2. Richmond now has two losses, and people don't seem to think Villanova or UNH are for real. I'd love to hear people's opinions on their top 6 or 7, because I had a real hard time with it.
If my top 7 all win next week im just gonna put them all in a hat and draw them out :p

[UNCBears2010]

How did NAU move into the poll???

UNC is a lousy team that played like crap, and that game would AT LEAST have gone to overtime if not for the Bears making the worst play call in the history of football. I was at that game, and if NAU is a top 25 team in FCS, then holy *****, FCS is worse than I thought.

[RabidRabbit]

Your welcome. but I am sure AGS would find some other dumbass to do it:o :)

xbowx xbowx xbowx xbowx xbowx xbowx
Congrats on having a poll close at 12 noon, CDT, and have it up for viewing at 12:03!!
xeekx xeekx xthumbsupx xthumbsupx xthumbsupx xthumbsupx

[Cap'n Cat]

I can state with certainty that teams receiving only one vote for #1 did not have that vote provided by a supporter of that team. I can state with almost certainly, change that to, almost all of the votes for teams receiving a few #1 votes were not provided by supporters of said teams. It may very well be that none of the votes were from supporters of said teams, but I am way too tired of looking a friggin ballots to go back and check right now:p xrotatehx xlolx


Man, 89Hen, I don't know how you squeeze Mass, Confession and the AGS Poll in one day.

xnodx

[UNHWildCats]

How did NAU move into the poll???

UNC is a lousy team that played like crap, and that game would AT LEAST have gone to overtime if not for the Bears making the worst play call in the history of football. I was at that game, and if NAU is a top 25 team in FCS, then holy *****, FCS is worse than I thought.
Averaging 9 yards rushing allower per game after four weeks might have helped them get ranked.

When it comes to the bottom 5 theres probably any where from 15-25 teams that could make the spot.

[Dukie95]

Not only is Montana too high, but how in the world do seven people believe that the absolute BEST that this league has to offer barely sqeakes out a win agasint a DII team at home?

Seriously? Honestly?

This is not about wanting more JMU votes, give them to someone, anyone else...

[dbackjon]

How did NAU move into the poll???

UNC is a lousy team that played like crap, and that game would AT LEAST have gone to overtime if not for the Bears making the worst play call in the history of football. I was at that game, and if NAU is a top 25 team in FCS, then holy *****, FCS is worse than I thought.


The question is, why NOT NAU over the other contenders. Still very early in the season, with not a lot of FCS-FCS games played.

Fact is, NAU has won TWO FCS road games. And held both to negative rushing. That alone is worth a ranking.

[Rob Iola]

I can state with certainty that teams receiving only one vote for #1 did not have that vote provided by a supporter of that team. I can state with almost certainly, change that to, almost all of the votes for teams receiving a few #1 votes were not provided by supporters of said teams. It may very well be that none of the votes were from supporters of said teams, but I am way too tired of looking a friggin ballots to go back and check right now:p xrotatehx xlolx
I'll come clean - I've been the 1 voter (now joined by 2 others) who's been voting UNH #1 - and I hate UNH (they keep beating Delaware). They're #1 based on their undefeated record with all division 1 wins (now up to four) including an FBS win, and will stay #1 until they lose, which given their schedule might not be until the 3rd round of the playoffs. Their offense has been unstoppable, Toman's taken over for Santos in a big way, their D is jellin' like Magellan, and now they've got the bye week to cure a few aches and pains (e.g., Kackert). Argue all you like, but results speak volumes in my book (JMU should've at least been competitive with Duke, ASU has 2 losses, etc. etc.)...

[appfan2008]

The question is, why NOT NAU over the other contenders. Still very early in the season, with not a lot of FCS-FCS games played.

Fact is, NAU has won TWO FCS road games. And held both to negative rushing. That alone is worth a ranking.

I agree... I grabbed NAU as my last team to move in because I was looking for someone to fill out my 25 and noone was jumping out at me so why not

[89Hen]

I assume the SIU vote is a Northern Iowa fan
No, that would be me.

Week 5
Approved
1. Southern Illinois
2. Montana
3. James Madison
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. Richmond
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Cal Poly
10. North Dakota St.
11. Eastern Washington
12. Villanova
13. New Hampshire
14. South Dakota St.
15. Massachusetts
16. The Citadel
17. Sam Houston St.
18. Furman
19. Hampton
20. Elon
21. Delaware
22. Central Arkansas
23. Liberty
24. Western Illinois
25. Jacksonville St.
W. Villanova
L. Richmond

[UNCBears2010]

Averaging 9 yards rushing allower per game after four weeks might have helped them get ranked.

When it comes to the bottom 5 theres probably any where from 15-25 teams that could make the spot.

Even considering that stat, UNC, who is not a good team, played easily their worst game of the year last week, and NAU needed a gift to beat them in regulation. Either UNC is a lot better than I think, or the rest of FCS is a lot worse than I think.

[appfan2008]

I'll come clean - I've been the 1 voter (now joined by 2 others) who's been voting UNH #1 - and I hate UNH (they keep beating Delaware). They're #1 based on their undefeated record with all division 1 wins (now up to four) including an FBS win, and will stay #1 until they lose, which given their schedule might not be until the 3rd round of the playoffs. Their offense has been unstoppable, Toman's taken over for Santos in a big way, their D is jellin' like Magellan, and now they've got the bye week to cure a few aches and pains (e.g., Kackert). Argue all you like, but results speak volumes in my book (JMU should've at least been competitive with Duke, ASU has 2 losses, etc. etc.)...

my question for you rob is how would asu or jmu have done with that schedule??? my guess is ASU is also 4-0 right now looking like a damn good bet for 4 in a row... how would unh have done with ASU's schedule? probably 2-2 also and not ranked...

[UNHWildCats]

No, that would be me.

Week 5
Approved
1. Southern Illinois
2. Montana
3. James Madison
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. Richmond
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Cal Poly
10. North Dakota St.
11. Eastern Washington
12. Villanova
13. New Hampshire
14. South Dakota St.
15. Massachusetts
16. The Citadel
17. Sam Houston St.
18. Furman
19. Hampton
20. Elon
21. Delaware
22. Central Arkansas
23. Liberty
24. Western Illinois
25. Jacksonville St.
W. Villanova
L. Richmond

I was gonna comment on you hate of UNH, but then noticed you're an equal opportunity hater with Delaware way down at #21

[appfan2008]

No, that would be me.

Week 5
Approved
1. Southern Illinois
2. Montana
3. James Madison
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. Richmond
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Cal Poly
10. North Dakota St.
11. Eastern Washington
12. Villanova
13. New Hampshire
14. South Dakota St.
15. Massachusetts
16. The Citadel
17. Sam Houston St.
18. Furman
19. Hampton
20. Elon
21. Delaware
22. Central Arkansas
23. Liberty
24. Western Illinois
25. Jacksonville St.
W. Villanova
L. Richmond

looks good and i like where asu is... i had them at #5 as well

[SunCoastBlueHen]

no... its everything else...

look at who the losses were...

and our record the last three years speaks for itself...
I have us at #5 and that is up from last week so it aint me putting them up there

Thank you for making my point. I think it is possible that THIS ASU team gets too much credit for what PAST ASU teams accomplished. The fact is that the Mountaineers are 0-1 against quality FCS competition. Some other teams have a better resume to date.

For the record, based on what has happened THIS season, I think 'Nova and UNH are a bit too low in the rankings. xtwocentsx

[appfan2008]

Thank you for making my point. I think it is possible that THIS ASU team gets too much credit for what PAST ASU teams accomplished. The fact is that the Mountaineers are 0-1 against quality FCS competition. Some other teams have a better resume to date.

For the record, based on what has happened THIS season, I think 'Nova and UNH are a bit too low in the rankings. xtwocentsx

what poll or ranking is based solely on the results of the current season?

none...

there has to be a starting point every year... and we started high and lossed to great teams and have stayed high..

[Dukie95]

Thank you for making my point. I think it is possible that THIS ASU team gets too much credit for what PAST ASU teams accomplished. The fact is that the Mountaineers are 0-1 against quality FCS competition. Some other teams have a better resume to date.

For the record, based on what has happened THIS season, I think 'Nova and UNH are a bit too low in the rankings. xtwocentsx

Unfortunately, far too many teams on this poll are where they are relative to where they were in the first pre-season poll and final post-season poll, so they're ALL based on what they did last year.

[Black Saturday]

I'll come clean - I've been the 1 voter (now joined by 2 others) who's been voting UNH #1 - and I hate UNH (they keep beating Delaware). They're #1 based on their undefeated record with all division 1 wins (now up to four) including an FBS win, and will stay #1 until they lose, which given their schedule might not be until the FIRST round of the playoffs. Their offense has been unstoppable, Toman's taken over for Santos in a big way, their D is jellin' like Magellan, and now they've got the bye week to cure a few aches and pains (e.g., Kackert). Argue all you like, but results speak volumes in my book (JMU should've at least been competitive with Duke, ASU has 2 losses, etc. etc.)...

you meant 1st round, didn't you?

[89Hen]

The question is, why NOT NAU over the other contenders. Still very early in the season, with not a lot of FCS-FCS games played.

Fact is, NAU has won TWO FCS road games. And held both to negative rushing. That alone is worth a ranking.
Because it's still very early in the season and the fact is, NAU's two I-AA road wins are teams that are a combined 7-46 in the last three seasons.

The negative yardage two weeks in a row is a pretty neat stat... but SUU did pass for over 300 yards and UNC 261 so I'm not really sure it's anything to hang your hat on. xpeacex

[WrenFGun]

I do not believe that UNH is a #1 calibur team right now, though I appreciate the voting. There is absolutely something to be said about being 4-0 against all Division I competition (particularly considering that McNeese State and Eastern Washington have not won against any DI competition). I don't believe UNH should be above Montana, though the close win over a DII school may influence my thought process. A Villanova team that has only lost to WVU and has a quality win should be higher than UNH, IMO.

[89Hen]

I was gonna comment on you hate of UNH, but then noticed you're an equal opportunity hater with Delaware way down at #21
The only UNH game I've seen this year was the URI game... really not impressed with your D yet. xpeacex

[appfan2008]

Because it's still very early in the season and the fact is, NAU's two I-AA road wins are teams that are a combined 7-46 in the last three seasons.

The negative yardage two weeks in a row is a pretty neat stat... but SUU did pass for over 300 yards and UNC 261 so I'm not really sure it's anything to hang your hat on. xpeacex

sounds similar to ASU's defense... which reminds me that as I was watching the game against PC I was really getting scared of the Elon game in a few weeks... we are very vulnerable to great passing team which they are...

[SunCoastBlueHen]

what poll or ranking is based solely on the results of the current season?

none...

there has to be a starting point every year... and we started high and lossed to great teams and have stayed high..

The first poll of a new season is, of course, based largely on what a team had done the previous year. After four games things start to shake up a little bit (see Southern Cal). I just don't think the #2 team should be 0-1 against like competition. That is putting an an awful lot of weight toward a "good loss" IMHO.

BTW, I have no problem with your ranking of ASU at #5. That is about where I would have them. xtwocentsx

[Screamin_Eagle174]

I do not believe that UNH is a #1 calibur team right now, though I appreciate the voting. There is absolutely something to be said about being 4-0 against all Division I competition (particularly considering that McNeese State and Eastern Washington have not won against any DI competition). I don't believe UNH should be above Montana, though the close win over a DII school may influence my thought process. A Villanova team that has only lost to WVU and has a quality win should be higher than UNH, IMO.

You might want to check facts before you post. Last time I checked, ISU was still a D-I team (albeit not a very good one, D-I nonetheless).

[danefan]

You might want to check facts before you post. Last time I checked, ISU was still a D-I team (albeit not a very good one, D-I nonetheless).

that's why he said DI competition.....xrolleyesx

[WrenFGun]

that's why he said DI competition.....xrolleyesx

Actually, I'm a nimrod and didn't know that. Changes my thoughts, surely, but I still think EWU is a bit overrated based on their wins/games played.

[appfan2008]

that's why he said DI competition.....xrolleyesx

hey danefan i dont see you crying for votes this week whats up???

it aint normal to have poll results posted and you to not be complaining about something!!!

[dbackjon]

what poll or ranking is based solely on the results of the current season?

none...

there has to be a starting point every year... and we started high and lossed to great teams and have stayed high..


Unfortunately, far too many teams on this poll are where they are relative to where they were in the first pre-season poll and final post-season poll, so they're ALL based on what they did last year.

Which is why I advocate redoing your poll from scratch every week...

[appfan2008]

The first poll of a new season is, of course, based largely on what a team had done the previous year. After four games things start to shake up a little bit (see Southern Cal). I just don't think the #2 team should be 0-1 against like competition. That is putting an an awful lot of weight toward a "good loss" IMHO.

BTW, I have no problem with your ranking of ASU at #5. That is about where I would have them. xtwocentsx

do you not vote?

if you dont vote you cant say anything IMO

[danefan]

hey danefan i dont see you crying for votes this week whats up???

it aint normal to have poll results posted and you to not be complaining about something!!!

No reason to complain today. That's why I'm not complaining.

Danes laid an egg and don't deserve to get votes.


And, BTW....I was contemplating complaining as a joke, but decided against it. xnodx xlolx xlolx

[89Hen]

if you dont vote you cant say anything IMO
I don't have a vagina, does that mean I can't be a gynocologist?

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Actually, I'm a nimrod and didn't know that. Changes my thoughts, surely, but I still think EWU is a bit overrated based on their wins/games played.

Agreed, although I'd be more inclined to say we're prerated instead of overrated. We haven't had many games yet to prove where we stand in the rankings (2-5, IMO). Although if we played like we did against CU everyweek, we'd be #1 after Oct. 11.

[appfan2008]

I don't have a vagina, does that mean I can't be a gynocologist?

is that really what you do?

how did i not know that...

[appfan2008]

No reason to complain today. That's why I'm not complaining.

Danes laid an egg and don't deserve to get votes.


And, BTW....I was contemplating complaining as a joke, but decided against it. xnodx xlolx xlolx

no thats cool... glad you didnt but as i and others have said if you win you get ranked plane and simple!

[LehighFan11]

Week 5
Approved
1. James Madison
2. Appalachian St.
3. Wofford
4. Montana
5. Southern Illinois
6. Cal Poly
7. McNeese St.
8. Northern Iowa
9. Richmond
10. Villanova
11. New Hampshire
12. Furman
13. Eastern Washington
14. Elon
15. North Dakota St.
16. Delaware
17. Massachusetts
18. The Citadel
19. Georgia Southern
20. South Dakota St.
21. Liberty
22. Jacksonville St.
23. Sam Houston St.
24. Western Illinois
25. Montana St.
W. Southern Illinois
L. Richmond


I dont really understand how Southern Illinois isn't a top 10 team. I wanted to drop Montana a few spots after their unimpressive preformance but only App and JMU are better IMO. I did drop EWU however, until they do something I dont think they deserve to be ranked ahead of teams like Nova, Furman, etc.

[89Hen]

is that really what you do?

how did i not know that...
It's more a hobby than a job. xpeacex

[dbackjon]

Because it's still very early in the season and the fact is, NAU's two I-AA road wins are teams that are a combined 7-46 in the last three seasons.

The negative yardage two weeks in a row is a pretty neat stat... but SUU did pass for over 300 yards and UNC 261 so I'm not really sure it's anything to hang your hat on. xpeacex


What does prior season have to do with anything? NADA, ZILCH, ZIPPO. Winning games on the road is tough, no matter the opponent.


And you rank Hampton 19th, which struggled to beat 1-3 Jackson State (and the JSU win was over a DII team) at home, beat 1-3 Howard (only win vs Savannah) and 2-2 NC A&T.

Whole poll is still a crap shoot this early.

[appfan2008]

It's more a hobby than a job. xpeacex

xlolx thats quality... xlolx

[SunCoastBlueHen]

do you not vote?

if you dont vote you cant say anything IMO

I can't have an opinion because I don't fill out a ballot each week? Should I also be removed from the discussion board because I don't fill out a ballot? In your infinite wisdom, what am I allowed to have an opinion on as it relates to FCS football?

[89Hen]

Whole poll is still a crap shoot this early.
That was part of my point. You just seemed to want to belittle anyone that doesn't have NAU in their ballot as not knowing anything about I-AA football. You can have NAU and that's great. Somebody else might not and that's great too. xpeacex

[89Hen]

What does prior season have to do with anything? NADA, ZILCH, ZIPPO.
BTW, this early in the season "with not a lot of FCS-FCS games played" as you say, previous years DO enter into it... especially when you're talking about teams that have a horrendous history. IF a team like SUU or UNC suddenly had a decent year, THEN it would make your wins better. But until they do change, they simply don't look very good.

[dbackjon]

That was part of my point. You just seemed to want to belittle anyone that doesn't have NAU in their ballot as not knowing anything about I-AA football. You can have NAU and that's great. Somebody else might not and that's great too. xpeacex

I have not belittled anyone (not intentionally). I have asked questions. NAU was belittled by a poster. I responded.

I lobby for NAU, but know that there are other teams with claims almost as legit ;)

[OhioHen]

my question for you rob is how would asu or jmu have done with that schedule??? my guess is ASU is also 4-0 right now looking like a damn good bet for 4 in a row... how would unh have done with ASU's schedule? probably 2-2 also and not ranked...

If you say UNH would be unranked at 2-2, do you also say that ASU deserves to be unranked at 2-2?

[appfan2008]

I can't have an opinion because I don't fill out a ballot each week? Should I also be removed from the discussion board because I don't fill out a ballot? In your infinite wisdom, what am I allowed to have an opinion on as it relates to FCS football?

THANK you for putting words in my mouth... My INFINITE WISDOM says you can debate about FCS football on this board but just like if you dont like the president but didnt vote then I dont want to hear it... if you dont vote in the poll and are eligible and able then I dont want to hear how the poll is wrong!...


most definately did not say you cant share your opinion on fcs football!

[appfan2008]

If you say UNH would be unranked at 2-2, do you also say that ASU deserves to be unranked at 2-2?

I have UNH ranked 8th... I have already posted my poll in this thread... please read... xrulesx xcoffeexxreadx

[PurpleandGold]

Not that I think that JMU deserves all the #1 votes, but I imagine that the Duke loss has a lot to do with us not getting some of them. And that has everything to do with the recent history of Duke football, which we all know is horrible. They're looking much improved so far this year which will slowly make our loss look less embarrassing. There's no way to keep history out of it, unless you use a computer model.

[UNCBears2010]

I have not belittled anyone (not intentionally). I have asked questions. NAU was belittled by a poster. I responded.

I lobby for NAU, but know that there are other teams with claims almost as legit ;)

I wasn't meaning to belittle NAU, I was just wondering what it was about their win over UNC merited a Top 25 ranking. I'm thinking I may have to adjust my entire perception of the Bears.

[SunCoastBlueHen]

THANK you for putting words in my mouth... My INFINITE WISDOM says you can debate about FCS football on this board but just like if you dont like the president but didnt vote then I dont want to hear it... if you dont vote in the poll and are eligible and able then I dont want to hear how the poll is wrong!...


most definately did not say you cant share your opinion on fcs football!


What a bunch of crap!

I had an opinion on the poll as expressed it. You have a problem with my opinion and claimed I should not be able to offer it because I didn't vote in the poll. What words did I put in your mouth?

I enjoy the poll each week and think the voters do a good job with it, but I also reserve the right to comment if I choose, a right you claim I shouldn't have.

[Bearkat-Backer]

I am glad to see Sam Houston crack the top 25. I thought that since we sat most of our starters in the second half and let G-W roll of 20+ unanswered points that we might not quite get in there. UCA and Mcneese in back to back weeks should be a great measuring stick for us.

Eat'em up Kats!

[Tribe4SF]

I would guess that anyone who watched Villanova win on Saturday ranked them in the top 10, and would appreciate why someone would give them the top spot. I've been a believer, having voted them #5 last week, and moving them up to #3 this week.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

I wasn't meaning to belittle NAU, I was just wondering what it was about their win over UNC merited a Top 25 ranking. I'm thinking I may have to adjust my entire perception of the Bears.

It's not just the win over UNC, it's a combination of all their wins thus far, a respectable showing against a ranked BCS team, and their stifling run defense, AND other ranked teams having poor showings/losses.

[appfan2008]

What a bunch of crap!

I had an opinion on the poll as expressed it. You have a problem with my opinion and claimed I should not be able to offer it because I didn't vote in the poll. What words did I put in your mouth?

I enjoy the poll each week and think the voters do a good job with it, but I also reserve the right to comment if I choose.

You then said I told you couldnt comment on FCS football which I never said anything of the such... Please do... I welcome your comments on FCS football... you were complaining about something in the poll... something you could help to control if you voted... but you dont... comment on fooball all you want but leave the poll to the people who actually take the time to do something about it... without them it wouldnt happen...

as for the bolded part you are welcome to do as you please I just disagree... I believe you should take part in it to comment on it...

[SunCoastBlueHen]

THANK you for putting words in my mouth... My INFINITE WISDOM says you can debate about FCS football on this board but just like if you dont like the president but didnt vote then I dont want to hear it... if you dont vote in the poll and are eligible and able then I dont want to hear how the poll is wrong!...


most definately did not say you cant share your opinion on fcs football!

If non-poll voters, in your opinion, are not permitted to comment on the poll itself, it has no business being on the FCS discussion board.

[SunCoastBlueHen]

You then said I told you couldnt comment on FCS football which I never said anything of the such...


Read better and learn what a rhetorical question is...

[appfan2008]

Read better and learn what a rhetorical question is...

And by the way you are putting words in my mouth bc I didnt say that! read my post!

[McNeese75]

Should McNeese who is 2-1 with D2 and NAIA wins be #4?

xlolx What's wrong Patssle, not feeling the love???

25 out of 25 for me xwhistlex

[UNHWildCats]

has a weekly poll thread ever been shut down for content lol

[SunCoastBlueHen]

do you not vote?

if you dont vote you cant say anything IMO


And by the way you are putting words in my mouth bc I didnt say that! read my post!


Sounds to me like you are saying I shouldn't comment...

If not, can you please translate that for me?

[appfan2008]

has a weekly poll thread ever been shut down for content lol

it will be in a minute if sun coast doesnt grow a pair...

[appfan2008]

Sounds to me like you are saying I shouldn't comment...

If not, can you please translate that for me?

I will if you need me to since you cant read...
I am saying not on a poll thread if you dont vote...
The normal FCS discussion is fine... never said anything about that!

[mcveyrl]

I do this only to divert attention...

My poll:

Week 5
Approved
1. James Madison
2. McNeese St.
3. Appalachian St.
4. North Dakota St.
5. Richmond
6. Northern Iowa
7. Cal Poly
8. Montana
9. Eastern Washington
10. Villanova
11. New Hampshire
12. Massachusetts
13. Wofford
14. Southern Illinois
15. Furman
16. Delaware
17. Western Illinois
18. Elon
19. South Dakota St.
20. Liberty
21. Central Arkansas
22. The Citadel
23. Jacksonville St.
24. Sam Houston St.
25. Hampton
W. Southern Illinois
L. Richmond

EDIT: for dbackjon, NAU is on the brink...

[appfan2008]

I do this only to divert attention...



Thank you...

[BisonBacker]

I do this only to divert attention...

My poll:

Week 5
Approved
1. James Madison
2. McNeese St.
3. Appalachian St.
4. North Dakota St.
5. Richmond
6. Northern Iowa
7. Cal Poly
8. Montana
9. Eastern Washington
10. Villanova
11. New Hampshire
12. Massachusetts
13. Wofford
14. Southern Illinois
15. Furman
16. Delaware
17. Western Illinois
18. Elon
19. South Dakota St.
20. Liberty
21. Central Arkansas
22. The Citadel
23. Jacksonville St.
24. Sam Houston St.
25. Hampton
W. Southern Illinois
L. Richmond

EDIT: for dbackjon, NAU is on the brink...

NDSU with two losses at #4 and Montana with zero losses at #8? xconfusedx

[WrenFGun]

It's clear I missed the boat on WIU. I'm going to have to take that into account for next week.

[SunCoastBlueHen]

it will be in a minute if sun coast doesnt grow a pair...


I will if you need me to since you cant read...
I am saying not on a poll thread if you dont vote...
The normal FCS discussion is fine... never said anything about that!

OK we're in agreement. That is the only thing I have disagreed with all along. The rest seems to have missed the mark with you, so I'll leave it alone.

As for the “grow a pair comment”, I will exercise restraint and be the man in this god awful discussion I have fallen into.

[mcveyrl]

NDSU with two losses at #4 and Montana with zero losses at #8? xconfusedx

Right now, I still think NDSU is that good. Their loss to Wyoming was competitive and I will usually give a team one "slip up" game before dinking them too much.

Montana had a huge "slip up" (IMO) against CWU and I also considered their game against UC Davis, who I don't think is that great.

Both will sort themselves out during conference play.

[already123]

I would say that NAU should be in the top 25...no higher than 25 though. And watch out for Weber state. We will get a chance to see how good this team is this weekend as they go up against Montana

[93henfan]

No, that would be me.

Week 5
Approved
1. Southern Illinois
2. Montana
3. James Madison
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. Richmond
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Cal Poly
10. North Dakota St.
11. Eastern Washington
12. Villanova
13. New Hampshire
14. South Dakota St.
15. Massachusetts
16. The Citadel
17. Sam Houston St.
18. Furman
19. Hampton
20. Elon
21. Delaware
22. Central Arkansas
23. Liberty
24. Western Illinois
25. Jacksonville St.
W. Villanova
L. Richmond

So you're saying you'd take Hampton straight up over Delaware on a neutral field? I'd take you up on that bet.

[UNHWildCats]

it will be in a minute if sun coast doesnt grow a pair...
you arent an angel xnonox xnonox xnonox

[Retro]

Should McNeese who is 2-1 with D2 and NAIA wins be #4?

I would consider Delta State a quality opponent as the have beaten other FCS teams in the past, but we can only beat who we play and next week we will get a better gauge of that.. Plus an 8 point loss to UNC looks much more impressive than JMU's 24 point loss to Duke!

[UNIFanSince1983]

mcveyrl - I am curious as to how UNI is number 6 still, while SIU is only 14? Now I would not have dropped UNI very far after a close game with SIU. I guess I don't care because I think we are better than SIU, but after the game I can't justify why I think that.

[89Hen]

So you're saying you'd take Hampton straight up over Delaware on a neutral field? I'd take you up on that bet.
xconfusedx Rankings are not predictors. Northeastern beat the Hens in 2003... I guess they should have been ranked #1. xeyebrowx

[appfan2008]

you arent an angel xnonox xnonox xnonox

where did that come from unh?

[appfan2008]

OK we're in agreement. That is the only thing I have disagreed with all along. The rest seems to have missed the mark with you, so I'll leave it alone.

As for the “grow a pair comment”, I will exercise restraint and be the man in this god awful discussion I have fallen into.

fine... you can be the man i will just wander off and continuing posting and getting everyone mad at me... I dont mean too but I do and I am sorry to you and everyone that I have made mad... just passionate

[mcveyrl]

mcveyrl - I am curious as to how UNI is number 6 still, while SIU is only 14? Now I would not have dropped UNI very far after a close game with SIU. I guess I don't care because I think we are better than SIU, but after the game I can't justify why I think that.

I had SIU low in my poll last week (maybe too low), but could not, based on a field goal win justify jumping them much higher than that. Plus, I think that if UNI and SIU play 10 times, UNI still wins at least 6 or 7. I also had UNI at two and couldn't justify dropping them much lower.

You don't have to put a team that beats another team ahead of that team, otherwise Liberty would be in the top three (beat YSU who beat NDSU).

Again, this will all work itself out shortly...

[Proud Griz Man]

Not only is Montana too high, but how in the world do seven people believe that the absolute BEST that this league has to offer barely sqeakes out a win agasint a DII team at home?

Seriously? Honestly?

This is not about wanting more JMU votes, give them to someone, anyone else...

Not my vote, but out of curiousity Dukie: To whom then?

[89Hen]

Plus, I think that if UNI and SIU play 10 times, UNI still wins at least 6 or 7.
Not picking on you mcveyrl, but those kind of comments always crack me up when you're talking about fairly equal teams. We KNOW SIU beat UNI once this year, but you can only guess at the other nine. xpeacex

[jlcharles]

Week 5
Approved
1. James Madison
2. Appalachian St.
3. Wofford
4. Montana
5. Southern Illinois
6. Cal Poly
7. McNeese St.
8. Northern Iowa
9. Richmond
10. Villanova
11. New Hampshire
12. Furman
13. Eastern Washington
14. Elon
15. North Dakota St.
16. Delaware
17. Massachusetts
18. The Citadel
19. Georgia Southern
20. South Dakota St.
21. Liberty
22. Jacksonville St.
23. Sam Houston St.
24. Western Illinois
25. Montana St.
W. Southern Illinois
L. Richmond


I dont really understand how Southern Illinois isn't a top 10 team. I wanted to drop Montana a few spots after their unimpressive preformance but only App and JMU are better IMO. I did drop EWU however, until they do something I dont think they deserve to be ranked ahead of teams like Nova, Furman, etc.

Without knowing how you voted last week, I'm just curious why you have Richmond ahead of Nova in your poll? I could understand if you had them separated by a few spots, but when you probably dropped Richmond and moved Nova up, why did you stop there instead of switching them? I'm just interested in your rationale since you probably saw Nova against Lehigh.

[Rob Iola]

my question for you rob is how would asu or jmu have done with that schedule??? my guess is ASU is also 4-0 right now looking like a damn good bet for 4 in a row... how would unh have done with ASU's schedule? probably 2-2 also and not ranked...
short answer - I'm not guessing or playing hypotheticals - win your damn games, and don't schedule LSU...

[mcveyrl]

Not picking on you mcveyrl, but those kind of comments always crack me up when you're talking about fairly equal teams. We KNOW SIU beat UNI once this year, but you can only guess at the other nine. xpeacex

Guess, give our opinion, etc... Either way, that's the basis of my decision and my poll. Wasn't saying that as a definitive, just giving what I thought and why I ranked it the way I did.

[UNIFanSince1983]

If you had them low last week I guess that makes more sense. I was just curious as what your thinking was and I feel you reasoned it very well.

[appfan2008]

short answer - I'm not guessing or playing hypotheticals - win your damn games, and don't schedule LSU...

ok i was just throwing it out there!

[mlbowl]

.

Montana had a huge "slip up" (IMO) against CWU .

How so...pretty sure we won and remained undefeatedxrolleyesx same ol' crap from some of you guys...Montana will ALWAYS be overratedxthumbsupx oops...I forgot...I'm not allowed to have an opinion on the poll...because I don't always have time to vote...sorry...disregard!

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

The only UNH game I've seen this year was the URI game... really not impressed with your D yet. xpeacex

Disclosure: Voted last year, but screwed up this year and didn't get registered. Skipped the Spring pre-season poll for philosophical reasons then got caught in the system problems around the first poll in late Summer -- bad timing, busy whenever a window of opportunity existed.

This is not meant to pick on 89Hen, but to highlight a dilemma that I usually found myself in last year. I'll venture to guess that virtually every pollster makes his decisions without a solid, thorough analysis of all games played.

He's made a decision about UNH based on one out of four games because he saw it on TV. Much better than making your opinion without seeing a single game, but it misses two solid defensive efforts against Army and Dartmouth. And it also misses pretty solid defense once UNH went down 10 to Albany including a couple of huge stops in the fourth quarter. And I know I don't watch TV games of other teams closely enough to notice changes in defensive schemes like UNH did after going up 17-0 and allowing only one first down to Rhody on three possessions during that time. BTW, that initial defensive scheme is the base defense rather than the one that Rhody lit up.

I'm not trolling for a higher ranking for UNH. One, I don't think UNH deserves to be ranked higher at this time and I think the defense is a work in progress, juggling some players and schemes, being molded for the long run, etc. Two, I have faith that when the week number hits double digits that everything will shake out. What I am trying to say is that you really have to peel the layers of the onion to make a good evaluation. For example, you can't just look at a final score, you have to read enough to know whether the losing team scored two TDs against subs to make the score closer or whether both times played first strings to the end and it really was that close.

Not saying it's easy, but even with tight timelines and amateur pollsters (even those that are extremely knowledgeable have family and work obligations), the AGS Family does a very commendable job. Sometimes it takes a few games for some performance to be fully acknowledged, that's the nature of the beast.

[mcveyrl]

How so...pretty sure we won and remained undefeatedxrolleyesx same ol' crap from some of you guys...Montana will ALWAYS be overratedxthumbsupx oops...I forgot...I'm not allowed to have an opinion on the poll...because I don't always have time to vote...sorry...disregard!


First of all, I didn't say anything about not voting and having an opinion. Second, you don't know what you're talking about. Some probably remember me defending Montana and their schedule last year because they were doing what they were supposed to do to the teams they had.

My thought is, kill the teams you're supposed to kill and beat the teams you're supposed to beat and I'll keep you where I had you preseason. YOU DID NOT DO THAT. When I saw CWU on the schedule and ranked Montana pre-season (at 4 I think), I did not have them there based on a 3-point come from behind win against Cent. Wash.

I'm not saying you needed to crush CWU (they are a good DII team), but you needed to do more than be down 3 at the half and come back to win. You definitely get credit for pulling out the win, but you were at home to a DII, that's a "slip up" in my book

[Screamin_Eagle174]

First of all, I didn't say anything about not voting and having an opinion. Second, you don't know what you're talking about. Some probably remember me defending Montana and their schedule last year because they were doing what they were supposed to do to the teams they had.

My thought is, kill the teams you're supposed to kill and beat the teams you're supposed to beat and I'll keep you where I had you preseason. YOU DID NOT DO THAT. When I saw CWU on the schedule and ranked Montana pre-season (at 4 I think), I did not have them there based on a 3-point come from behind win against Cent. Wash.

I'm not saying you needed to crush CWU (they are a good DII team), but you needed to do more than be down 3 at the half and come back to win. You definitely get credit for pulling out the win, but you were at home to a DII, that's a "slip up" in my book

5 TOs to ANY team is a slip, IMO. But, the Griz are a good team, and still found a way to win.

[mcveyrl]

5 TOs to ANY team is a slip, IMO. But, the Griz are a good team, and still found a way to win.

I think they're a good team too. And the Big Sky is no Big Fluffy this year, so they'll definitely move up with some wins in conference.

I just took offense to the comment that my ranking would have anything to do with prejudicing the Griz when I justified it by commenting on their play.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

I think they're a good team too. And the Big Sky is no Big Fluffy this year, so they'll definitely move up with some wins in conference.

I just took offense to the comment that my ranking would have anything to do with prejudicing the Griz when I justified it by commenting on their play.

I understand. I wasn't taking either side, just adding my xtwocentsx

[mlbowl]

First of all, I didn't say anything about not voting and having an opinion. Second, you don't know what you're talking about. Some probably remember me defending Montana and their schedule last year because they were doing what they were supposed to do to the teams they had.

My thought is, kill the teams you're supposed to kill and beat the teams you're supposed to beat and I'll keep you where I had you preseason. YOU DID NOT DO THAT. When I saw CWU on the schedule and ranked Montana pre-season (at 4 I think), I did not have them there based on a 3-point come from behind win against Cent. Wash.

I'm not saying you needed to crush CWU (they are a good DII team), but you needed to do more than be down 3 at the half and come back to win. You definitely get credit for pulling out the win, but you were at home to a DII, that's a "slip up" in my book

I don't know what I'm talking about???...because I don't agree that it was a "huge" slip up to grind out a tough win against much adversity...I think you're a pretty knowledgeable FCS fan but I think I'm going to exercise my right to a difference of opinionxnodx ...btw, I know you weren't the one that said you can't comment if you didn't vote...I threw that in for app2008xlolx

[mcveyrl]

I don't know what I'm talking about???...because I don't agree that it was a "huge" slip up to grind out a tough win against much adversity...I think you're a pretty knowledgeable FCS fan but I think I'm going to exercise my right to a difference of opinionxnodx ...btw, I know you weren't the one that said you can't comment if you didn't vote...I threw that in for app2008xlolx

Sorry, should have clarified. I meant you didn't know what you were talking about regarding any perceived Montana bias on my part. xpeacex

I would never argue with anybody else's knowledge/opinion of FCS football. I will admit that mine is fairly limited compared to a lot of others.

Difference of opinion is fine, but mine is based on what I thought Montana should have done and didn't have anything to do with what I think of Montana rating or overrating.

[McTailGator]

Should McNeese who is 2-1 with D2 and NAIA wins be #4?

I guess we will find out where McNeese should be in 19 days by about 5:pm.

I'm guessing you will say Number 4 by then.

Of course others might say that we still have not played anybody at that time either won't they.

[mlbowl]

Sorry, should have clarified. I meant you didn't know what you were talking about regarding any perceived Montana bias on my part. xpeacex

I would never argue with anybody else's knowledge/opinion of FCS football. I will admit that mine is fairly limited compared to a lot of others.

Difference of opinion is fine, but mine is based on what I thought Montana should have done and didn't have anything to do with what I think of Montana rating or overrating.

No beef here...I understand your reasoning...but if you were at the game you would understand what I mean by "much adversity"...a poor performance to say the least....but we did grit it out in true Griz fashionxnodx

[Black Saturday]

I do not believe that UNH is a #1 calibur team right now, though I appreciate the voting. There is absolutely something to be said about being 4-0 against all Division I competition (particularly considering that McNeese State and Eastern Washington have not won against any DI competition). I don't believe UNH should be above Montana, though the close win over a DII school may influence my thought process. A Villanova team that has only lost to WVU and has a quality win should be higher than UNH, IMO.

Yes, there is alot to be said about the wins against DIV I opponents.

UNH opponents records to date are as follows:

ARMY 0-4 xeekx

RHODE ISLAND 1-4 xcoffeex

ALBANY 1-3 :(

DARTMOUTH 0-2 xlolx

[WrenFGun]

Yes, there is alot to be said about the wins against DIV I opponents.

UNH opponents records to date are as follows:

ARMY 0-4 xeekx

RHODE ISLAND 1-4 xcoffeex

ALBANY 1-3 :(

DARTMOUTH 0-2 xlolx

Yes. If UNH were 4-0 and those teams faired better against other competition, then UNH would be #1 overall. Their lack of strong opponent win percentage is why they're seventh despite being undefeated.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Yes, there is alot to be said about the wins against DIV I opponents.

UNH opponents records to date are as follows:

ARMY 0-4 xeekx

RHODE ISLAND 1-4 xcoffeex

ALBANY 1-3 :(

DARTMOUTH 0-2 xlolx

What are you talking about?!? I thought Army had a win against Al-Queda?

Ohhhhhhhh......... my bad. xbangx

[mlbowl]

What are you talking about?!? I thought Army had a win against Al-Queda?

Ohhhhhhhh......... my bad. xbangx


Rep points for you!

[JMU2K_DukeDawg]

Since everyone else is doing it, more fuel for an interesting conversation - lots of good points being made. I suppose my ranking for NAU and UNH are too high. lol If I were to vote again today, I would probably switch Elon and Villanova.

Week 5
Approved
1. James Madison
2. New Hampshire
3. Montana
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. Richmond
7. Southern Illinois
8. Wofford
9. Northern Iowa
10. Elon
11. Villanova
12. Cal Poly
13. Furman
14. North Dakota St.
15. The Citadel
16. Delaware
17. Massachusetts
18. Eastern Washington
19. Liberty
20. Jacksonville St.
21. Central Arkansas
22. Northern Arizona
23. William & Mary
24. Tennessee St.
25. Sam Houston St.
W. Liberty
L. Richmond

[MaximumBobcat]

How did NAU move into the poll???

UNC is a lousy team that played like crap, and that game would AT LEAST have gone to overtime if not for the Bears making the worst play call in the history of football. I was at that game, and if NAU is a top 25 team in FCS, then holy *****, FCS is worse than I thought.

xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx

xoutofrepx

[dbackjon]

xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx

xoutofrepx

We beat Southern Utah. You lost by two touchdowns to Southern Utah.

Scoreboard, NAU

[Houndawg]

No, that would be me.

Week 5
Approved
1. Southern Illinois
2. Montana
3. James Madison
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. Richmond
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Cal Poly
10. North Dakota St.
11. Eastern Washington
12. Villanova
13. New Hampshire
14. South Dakota St.
15. Massachusetts
16. The Citadel
17. Sam Houston St.
18. Furman
19. Hampton
20. Elon
21. Delaware
22. Central Arkansas
23. Liberty
24. Western Illinois
25. Jacksonville St.
W. Villanova
L. Richmond


Curious as to why you think SIU is the best team in the country. I'm a Saluki fan and I can't figure a way to make that case with my wildest flights of homerism. I believe we're Top 10, but #1........?xconfusedx

[UNHWildCats]

Disclosure: Voted last year, but screwed up this year and didn't get registered. Skipped the Spring pre-season poll for philosophical reasons then got caught in the system problems around the first poll in late Summer -- bad timing, busy whenever a window of opportunity existed.

This is not meant to pick on 89Hen, but to highlight a dilemma that I usually found myself in last year. I'll venture to guess that virtually every pollster makes his decisions without a solid, thorough analysis of all games played.

He's made a decision about UNH based on one out of four games because he saw it on TV. Much better than making your opinion without seeing a single game, but it misses two solid defensive efforts against Army and Dartmouth. And it also misses pretty solid defense once UNH went down 10 to Albany including a couple of huge stops in the fourth quarter. And I know I don't watch TV games of other teams closely enough to notice changes in defensive schemes like UNH did after going up 17-0 and allowing only one first down to Rhody on three possessions during that time. BTW, that initial defensive scheme is the base defense rather than the one that Rhody lit up.

I'm not trolling for a higher ranking for UNH. One, I don't think UNH deserves to be ranked higher at this time and I think the defense is a work in progress, juggling some players and schemes, being molded for the long run, etc. Two, I have faith that when the week number hits double digits that everything will shake out. What I am trying to say is that you really have to peel the layers of the onion to make a good evaluation. For example, you can't just look at a final score, you have to read enough to know whether the losing team scored two TDs against subs to make the score closer or whether both times played first strings to the end and it really was that close.

Not saying it's easy, but even with tight timelines and amateur pollsters (even those that are extremely knowledgeable have family and work obligations), the AGS Family does a very commendable job. Sometimes it takes a few games for some performance to be fully acknowledged, that's the nature of the beast.
To be fair, I dont think he's basing his complete opinion of UNH on the one game he has seen, but is basing his view of the defense on that game and thats fair, UNH hasn't had a good defense for most of the recent sucessful run and who knows how it will end up at the end of this season.

UNH's defense is a fair argument for ranking them low, however when you have an offense as explosive as UNH's it can make up for the lackluster D.

[siuham]

EWU fans you may want to avert your eyes:
Rank - Team - (Last) - [AGS]
1. James Madison (1) [1]
2. Appalachian St. (6) [2]
3. McNeese St. (7) [4]
4. Montana (4) [3]
5. Cal Poly (5) [5]
6. New Hampshire (9) [7]
7. Richmond (2) [6]
8. North Dakota St. (8) [13]
9. Villanova (16) [12]
10. Southern Illinois (14) [11]
11. Northern Iowa (3) [10]
12. Wofford (10) [9]
13. Delaware (13) [16]
14. Elon (11) [14]
15. South Dakota St. (12) [19]
16. Massachusetts (15) [17]
17. Furman (18) [15]
18. Central Arkansas (17) [20]
19. Eastern Washington (23) [8]
20. The Citadel (22) [18]
21. Western Illinois (21) [21]
22. Jacksonville St. (NR) [23]
23. Liberty (NR) [22[
24. Eastern Illinois (19) [NR]
25. Northern Arizona (NR) [24]

Dropped: Youngstown St. (20), Tennessee St. (24), Yale (25)

I still have issues with where I'm placing Nova, Wofford, Delaware, and Elon. EWU needs to get through conference play and show me something and I'll keep moving them up. For now, sorry, no top 10 for you.

Yes, I was one of those people that kept YSU in their top 25, thinking they were just getting beat by good teams. But losing to Liberty at home was the last straw. Until they beat UNI or SIU, they're not getting back in. Oh, and McNeese gets to leapfrog Montana because they actually know how to beat a DII team.

[Screamin_Eagle174]

EWU fans you may want to avert your eyes:
Rank - Team - (Last) - [AGS]
1. James Madison (1) [1]
2. Appalachian St. (6) [2]
3. McNeese St. (7) [4]
4. Montana (4) [3]
5. Cal Poly (5) [5]
6. New Hampshire (9) [7]
7. Richmond (2) [6]
8. North Dakota St. (8) [13]
9. Villanova (16) [12]
10. Southern Illinois (14) [11]
11. Northern Iowa (3) [10]
12. Wofford (10) [9]
13. Delaware (13) [16]
14. Elon (11) [14]
15. South Dakota St. (12) [19]
16. Massachusetts (15) [17]
17. Furman (18) [15]
18. Central Arkansas (17) [20]
19. Eastern Washington (23) [8]
20. The Citadel (22) [18]
21. Western Illinois (21) [21]
22. Jacksonville St. (NR) [23]
23. Liberty (NR) [22[
24. Eastern Illinois (19) [NR]
25. Northern Arizona (NR) [24]

Dropped: Youngstown St. (20), Tennessee St. (24), Yale (25)

I still have issues with where I'm placing Nova, Wofford, Delaware, and Elon. EWU needs to get through conference play and show me something and I'll keep moving them up. For now, sorry, no top 10 for you.

Yes, I was one of those people that kept YSU in their top 25, thinking they were just getting beat by good teams. But losing to Liberty at home was the last straw. Until they beat UNI or SIU, they're not getting back in.

I see how it is. Still feeling the sting from 2004? xsmiley_wix

[siuham]

I see how it is. Still feeling the sting from 2004? xsmiley_wix

xbawlingx

Nah. Not at all, actually. I moved them 4 spots up after a game they should have won regardless. And I did that before moving teams down for losing. Like I said, play like you should, you'll keep going up in my poll. :)

[WrenFGun]

Disclosure: Voted last year, but screwed up this year and didn't get registered. Skipped the Spring pre-season poll for philosophical reasons then got caught in the system problems around the first poll in late Summer -- bad timing, busy whenever a window of opportunity existed.

This is not meant to pick on 89Hen, but to highlight a dilemma that I usually found myself in last year. I'll venture to guess that virtually every pollster makes his decisions without a solid, thorough analysis of all games played.

He's made a decision about UNH based on one out of four games because he saw it on TV. Much better than making your opinion without seeing a single game, but it misses two solid defensive efforts against Army and Dartmouth. And it also misses pretty solid defense once UNH went down 10 to Albany including a couple of huge stops in the fourth quarter. And I know I don't watch TV games of other teams closely enough to notice changes in defensive schemes like UNH did after going up 17-0 and allowing only one first down to Rhody on three possessions during that time. BTW, that initial defensive scheme is the base defense rather than the one that Rhody lit up.

I'm not trolling for a higher ranking for UNH. One, I don't think UNH deserves to be ranked higher at this time and I think the defense is a work in progress, juggling some players and schemes, being molded for the long run, etc. Two, I have faith that when the week number hits double digits that everything will shake out. What I am trying to say is that you really have to peel the layers of the onion to make a good evaluation. For example, you can't just look at a final score, you have to read enough to know whether the losing team scored two TDs against subs to make the score closer or whether both times played first strings to the end and it really was that close.

Not saying it's easy, but even with tight timelines and amateur pollsters (even those that are extremely knowledgeable have family and work obligations), the AGS Family does a very commendable job. Sometimes it takes a few games for some performance to be fully acknowledged, that's the nature of the beast.

I believe this to be true. Well said. I don't think a lot of people even have the ability to note this kind of information, however, because there is simply not enough media coverage to allow for it. When UNH has Steve Young, Kyle Maroney, Jordan Long and Brian McNally in their front four, they are a potentially league average or better defense. They got blown up in Rhode Island when players like Lance Mailloux, John Duffey and Mike Perkins were playing regularly, for one reason or another.

[th0m]

5 TOs to ANY team is a slip, IMO. But, the Griz are a good team, and still found a way to win.

While a win is a win, does this mean every team should just go ahead and create 5 turnovers and edge out a win every week to eventually get to #1 instead of simply blowing them out of the water?

Yes Montana found a way to win with 5 TO's but lets not pat them on the back for doing so.

[siuham]

While a win is a win, does this mean every team should just go ahead and create 5 turnovers and edge out a win every week to eventually get to #1?

Yes Montana found a way to win with 5 TO's but lets not pat them on the back for doing so.

In the same light, UNI had 5 turnovers and lost in the last second and dropped what, 5 spots? I almost dropped Montana but no one below them deserved the bump yet.

[DB_Atlantic10]

no... its everything else...

look at who the losses were...

and our record the last three years speaks for itself...

I have us at #5 and that is up from last week so it aint me putting them up there
I agree App St. is an unquestionable #2 at this point....only LSU and JMU can challenge that right now....

[DB_Atlantic10]

Not only is Montana too high, but how in the world do seven people believe that the absolute BEST that this league has to offer barely sqeakes out a win agasint a DII team at home?

Seriously? Honestly?

This is not about wanting more JMU votes, give them to someone, anyone else... Yes, I do remember how JMU was punished for barely squeeking by DII Power Bloomsburgs a couple or years ago...

[blackfordpu]

I see how it is. Still feeling the sting from 2004? xsmiley_wix

Are you?:p xrotatehx ;)

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Are you?:p xrotatehx ;)

xlolx Touche'.

I was at that game on the field right behind the endzone when they scored that go ahead TD with a couple seconds remaining. Pitiful how our secondary gave away that game after we had a comfortable lead. xbawlingx

[LehighFan11]

Without knowing how you voted last week, I'm just curious why you have Richmond ahead of Nova in your poll? I could understand if you had them separated by a few spots, but when you probably dropped Richmond and moved Nova up, why did you stop there instead of switching them? I'm just interested in your rationale since you probably saw Nova against Lehigh.

I had Richmond 3rd and Villanova 20th the week before. This weeks poll was very tough to place UNI, SIU, Richmond, and Villanova correctly. I felt like both Richmond and Villanova were strong enough to be right around 10. The reason I think I didn't have Nova jump Richmond was beacuse it wasn't that big of an "upset" in my mind. Yea they beat the #1 team, but it was an in conference game at home. I still have some questions about Villanova, they were fairly impressive vs. Lehigh but unimpressive vs. Penn. Then again it is very hard to compare the games because of the QB switch. Richmond is a proven team the last few years and showed they have strength this year winning @ Elon. Overall, I think if the game was @ Richmond, I would of had Villanova jump Richmond. I have a few teams in my poll in the 7-14 range that I'm still deferring judgement on, Villanova kind of being one of them.

[bigchocolate]

What does prior season have to do with anything? NADA, ZILCH, ZIPPO. Winning games on the road is tough, no matter the opponent.


And you rank Hampton 19th, which struggled to beat 1-3 Jackson State (and the JSU win was over a DII team) at home, beat 1-3 Howard (only win vs Savannah) and 2-2 NC A&T.

Whole poll is still a crap shoot this early.


I think Hampton between # 15 and #22 is about right. Winning on the road is difficult...their 6 point lost @ SIU should tell you something about the quality of this team. I'll pass some game Stats for the Hampton/SIU game: HAMPTON STATISTICS S ILLINOIS
18 FIRST DOWNS 21

25% (4 of 16) THIRD DOWN EFFICIENCY 31% (4 of 13)
100% (2 of 2) FOURTH DOWN EFFICIENCY 67% (2 of 3)
450 TOTAL NET YARDS 416
11-88 PENALTIES: Number-Yards 3-25
31:33 TIME OF POSSESSION 28:27

These Stats in my mind don't represent 12-20+ poll positions. I'll let you in on a little secret...Hampton is the 3rd best team in the MEAC this year.xsmiley_wix Forget about the DSU and NSU flash in the pan last year.

[Dukie95]

Yes, I do remember how JMU was punished for barely squeeking by DII Power Bloomsburgs a couple or years ago...

We went from 8th to 12th, and we won by 11.

[dgreco]

I thought both UTM and Brown would have had more votes. Otherwise I think the top 35 or so are pretty spot on.

[bjtheflamesfan]

I had 23 of 25 (with Prarie View and Montana State receiving votes)

[JALMOND]

I've tried to read all the posts (amazing this thread can already have 150 posts since noon) but I was getting a headache reading about this team belongs and this team doesn't. Here is how I voted...this week (last week). Hope it gives someone a headache in return.

1. James Madison (1)
2. Appalachian State (2)
3. McNeese State (4)
4. New Hampshire (8)
5. Eastern Washington (6)
6. Montana (5)
7. Villanova (12)
8. Southern Illinois (13)
9. Richmond (3)
10. Cal Poly (9)
11. Wofford (10)
12. North Dakota State (11)
13. Jacksonville State (14)
14. Delaware (16)
15. Northern Iowa (7)
16. Massachusettes (17)
17. Elon (20)
18. South Dakota State (22)
19. Furman (24)
20. Hampton (18)
21. The Citadel (NR)
22. Liberty (NR)
23. Weber State (21)
24. Cornell (NR)
25. Youngstown State (15)

Dropped out: Central Arkansas (19), Tennessee State (23), Georgia Southern (25)

[jlcharles]

I had Richmond 3rd and Villanova 20th the week before. This weeks poll was very tough to place UNI, SIU, Richmond, and Villanova correctly. I felt like both Richmond and Villanova were strong enough to be right around 10. The reason I think I didn't have Nova jump Richmond was beacuse it wasn't that big of an "upset" in my mind. Yea they beat the #1 team, but it was an in conference game at home. I still have some questions about Villanova, they were fairly impressive vs. Lehigh but unimpressive vs. Penn. Then again it is very hard to compare the games because of the QB switch. Richmond is a proven team the last few years and showed they have strength this year winning @ Elon. Overall, I think if the game was @ Richmond, I would of had Villanova jump Richmond. I have a few teams in my poll in the 7-14 range that I'm still deferring judgement on, Villanova kind of being one of them.

Thanks for that. I think just about every game we've played at Penn has come down to the last possession or so. Like I said in this thread or elsewhere, our defense can hang with anyone in the country. I'm not sold on our O yet. They can put points up on the board and move the ball, but haven't shown the consistency I'd like to see. The next two weeks will be a big test with them on the road. (Or maybe it's 3 weeks. Two games between now and Oct 25) W&M has been a bad place for us to play historically. If we can somehow get out of there with a win, I will feel real good about URI and JMU.

[appfan2008]

We went from 8th to 12th, and we won by 11.

that doesnt seem right when compared to what happened with montana

[89Hen]

This is not meant to pick on 89Hen, but to highlight a dilemma that I usually found myself in last year. I'll venture to guess that virtually every pollster makes his decisions without a solid, thorough analysis of all games played.

He's made a decision about UNH based on one out of four games because he saw it on TV. Much better than making your opinion without seeing a single game, but it misses two solid defensive efforts against Army and Dartmouth. And it also misses pretty solid defense once UNH went down 10 to Albany including a couple of huge stops in the fourth quarter. And I know I don't watch TV games of other teams closely enough to notice changes in defensive schemes like UNH did after going up 17-0 and allowing only one first down to Rhody on three possessions during that time. BTW, that initial defensive scheme is the base defense rather than the one that Rhody lit up.
NP CT, but I think UD's defensive performance against Albany was far superior to UNH's, so I'm really basing it on the one game I saw, and the one common opponent that I knew. Honestly, I wouldn't put any weight in a UNH/DC game as they've all seemed to have the same result lately. xpeacex

[89Hen]

Curious as to why you think SIU is the best team in the country. I'm a Saluki fan and I can't figure a way to make that case with my wildest flights of homerism. I believe we're Top 10, but #1........?xconfusedx
I had you at #4 preseason and you moved up. xpeacex

[yorkcountyUNHfan]

NP CT, but I think UD's defensive performance against Albany was far superior to UNH's, so I'm really basing it on the one game I saw, and the one common opponent that I knew. Honestly, I wouldn't put any weight in a UNH/DC game as they've all seemed to have the same result lately. xpeacex

I've seen UNH 4 times this year and I still can't figure them out.xrotatehx

[UNHWildCats]

my ballot http://redsox.travisliles.com/2008/09/my-week-5-fcs-poll.html

[89Hen]

my ballot
1. James Madison (4-1)
2. New Hampshire (4-0)
6. Delaware (2-2)
8. Villanova (3-1)
9. Richmond (3-2)
xconfusedx You skipped UMass to round out the top 10.

[mcveyrl]

my ballot http://redsox.travisliles.com/2008/09/my-week-5-fcs-poll.html

I like the CAA love, but Furman at 13 and Delaware at 6? I need some 'splainin' in that one.

[UNHWildCats]

I like the CAA love, but Furman at 13 and Delaware at 6? I need some 'splainin' in that one.
I dropped the ball on that big time..... xbawlingx xbawlingx xbawlingx

I promise to make it right next week

[CopperCat]

I like the CAA love, but Furman at 13 and Delaware at 6? I need some 'splainin' in that one.

I had FU at 19th and UD at 13th. I think those are much better spots based on what has transpired so far this season.

[mcveyrl]

I had FU at 19th and UD at 13th. I think those are much better spots based on what has transpired so far this season.

I like Furman over UD just a little right now because of the head to head, but don't have much of a problem over those spots. I think a lot of teams can fall in that range.

[bjtheflamesfan]

my ballot:

1. James Madison
2. Montana
3. McNeese St.
4. Appalachian St.
5. North Dakota St.
6. Wofford
7. Eastern Washington
8. New Hampshire
9. Richmond
10. Cal Poly
11. Massachusetts
12. Furman
13. Villanova
14. Southern Illinois
15. Northern Iowa
16. South Dakota St.
17. Central Arkansas
18. Liberty
19. The Citadel
20. Western Illinois
21. Northern Arizona
22. Jacksonville St.
23. Sam Houston St.
24. Montana St.
25. Prairie View A&M
W. Liberty
L. Richmond

(To all you blue hen fans I know that they arent ranked in my ballot...I'l have them back in for week 6 with another win)

[SunCoastBlueHen]

my ballot:

1. James Madison
2. Montana
3. McNeese St.
4. Appalachian St.
5. North Dakota St.
6. Wofford
7. Eastern Washington
8. New Hampshire
9. Richmond
10. Cal Poly
11. Massachusetts
12. Furman
13. Villanova
14. Southern Illinois
15. Northern Iowa
16. South Dakota St.
17. Central Arkansas
18. Liberty
19. The Citadel
20. Western Illinois
21. Northern Arizona
22. Jacksonville St.
23. Sam Houston St.
24. Montana St.
25. Prairie View A&M
W. Liberty
L. Richmond

(To all you blue hen fans I know that they arent ranked in my ballot...I'l have them back in for week 6 with another win)

Wow, we're behind Prairie View, Liberty, Jacksonville State, Central Arkansas...

We need another win in your book?... :p

Flame on BJ!

Side note: apologies to af2008 for offering another opinion on a thread for which I am not (apparently) permitted.

[bjtheflamesfan]

Hey I know yall are better...I just didnt get em in this week. I figure youll win this weekend and all will be made right with the world again

[skinny_uncle]

No, that would be me.

Week 5
Approved
1. Southern Illinois
2. Montana
3. James Madison
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. Richmond
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Cal Poly
10. North Dakota St.
11. Eastern Washington
12. Villanova
13. New Hampshire
14. South Dakota St.
15. Massachusetts
16. The Citadel
17. Sam Houston St.
18. Furman
19. Hampton
20. Elon
21. Delaware
22. Central Arkansas
23. Liberty
24. Western Illinois
25. Jacksonville St.
W. Villanova
L. Richmond

We appreciate your faith in us, Hen.
xthumbsupx

[umassfan]

I guess BYE really ****ed up UMass to make them drop 4 spots on an off week.xrolleyesx

[bjtheflamesfan]

Its more what the teams around UMass did as opposed to what UMass didnt do that affected their position (at least on my ballot)

[umassfan]

Its more what the teams around UMass did as opposed to what UMass didnt do that affected their position (at least on my ballot)


Im sorry but that much of a drop on a bye week is ****ed up and shows amatures do the poll

[bjtheflamesfan]

Im sorry but that much of a drop on a bye week is ****ed up and shows amatures do the poll
Here is my week 4 ballot:

Week 4
Approved
1. Richmond
2. James Madison
3. Montana
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. North Dakota St.
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Eastern Washington
10. New Hampshire
11. Massachusetts
12. Elon
13. Cal Poly
14. Furman
15. Villanova
16. Southern Illinois
17. South Dakota St.
18. Central Arkansas
19. Western Illinois
20. The Citadel
21. Northern Arizona
22. Georgia Southern
23. Liberty
24. Eastern Illinois
25. Harvard


Here is my week 5 ballot again:

1. James Madison
2. Montana
3. McNeese St.
4. Appalachian St.
5. North Dakota St.
6. Wofford
7. Eastern Washington
8. New Hampshire
9. Richmond
10. Cal Poly
11. Massachusetts
12. Furman
13. Villanova
14. Southern Illinois
15. Northern Iowa
16. South Dakota St.
17. Central Arkansas
18. Liberty
19. The Citadel
20. Western Illinois
21. Northern Arizona
22. Jacksonville St.
23. Sam Houston St.
24. Montana St.
25. Prairie View A&M


I actually kept UMass in the same spot. As far as why they dropped I cant speak for the other voters and their ballots

[FCS Go!]

Its more what the teams around UMass did as opposed to what UMass didnt do that affected their position (at least on my ballot)

I dropped UMass one spot on my ballot this week- basically to jump S. Illinois over them (and several others). I try not to drop teams that don't play but sometimes other teams performance make that necessary. Another thing about bye weeks is that teams that UMass (in this case) has already played are playing and their performance may affect how I view UMass' body of work so far this season.

[umassfan]

Look at UMass and App St for example:

UMass lost to Texas Tech
App lost to LSU

UMass lost to JMU
App lost to JMU

UMass beat Albany
App beat Presbretaryian

UMass beat Holy Cross
App beat Jacksonville

So why is App ranked that much higher with UMass having the better body of work ? Dont give me an answer of 3 peat.

[McNeese75]

xrolleyesx

Threepeat xnodx

[LehighFan11]

Look at UMass and App St for example:

UMass lost to Texas Tech
App lost to LSU

UMass lost to JMU
App lost to JMU

UMass beat Albany
App beat Presbretaryian

UMass beat Holy Cross
App beat Jacksonville

So why is App ranked that much higher with UMass having the better body of work ? Dont give me an answer of 3 peat.

Easy buddy. Umass has looked terrible, they couldn't stop a high school team on D right now. App St didn't win the SoCon and lost some games in the reg season last year and still won the NC, so eventhough they haven't had an impressive win yet, they are App.

[umassfan]

Easy buddy. Umass has looked terrible, they couldn't stop a high school team on D right now. App St didn't win the SoCon and lost some games in the reg season last year and still won the NC, so eventhough they haven't had an impressive win yet, they are App.

I wouldnt quite go that far... thats like saying the Pats will win it all this year in the NFL because they are the Pats.

[spelunker64]

13 over 11

[UNHWildCats]

Here is my week 4 ballot:

Week 4
Approved
1. Richmond
2. James Madison
3. Montana
4. McNeese St.
5. Appalachian St.
6. North Dakota St.
7. Wofford
8. Northern Iowa
9. Eastern Washington
10. New Hampshire
11. Massachusetts
12. Elon
13. Cal Poly
14. Furman
15. Villanova
16. Southern Illinois
17. South Dakota St.
18. Central Arkansas
19. Western Illinois
20. The Citadel
21. Northern Arizona
22. Georgia Southern
23. Liberty
24. Eastern Illinois
25. Harvard


Here is my week 5 ballot again:

1. James Madison
2. Montana
3. McNeese St.
4. Appalachian St.
5. North Dakota St.
6. Wofford
7. Eastern Washington
8. New Hampshire
9. Richmond
10. Cal Poly
11. Massachusetts
12. Furman
13. Villanova
14. Southern Illinois
15. Northern Iowa
16. South Dakota St.
17. Central Arkansas
18. Liberty
19. The Citadel
20. Western Illinois
21. Northern Arizona
22. Jacksonville St.
23. Sam Houston St.
24. Montana St.
25. Prairie View A&M


I actually kept UMass in the same spot. As far as why they dropped I cant speak for the other voters and their ballots

UNH wins by 36 and drops two spots

xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx

[UNHWildCats]

Villanova beats the #1 team in the nation and moves up 2 spots while Eastern Washington struggles again with an inferior opponent and also moves up 2 spots

[umassfan]

Villanova beats the #1 team in the nation and moves up 2 spots while Eastern Washington struggles again with an inferior opponent and also moves up 2 spots

Like I said... amatures.

[UNHWildCats]

Like I said... amatures.
UMass needs to prove something this weekend, and they need to prove it in a real big way.

[umassfan]

UMass needs to prove something this weekend, and they need to prove it in a real big way.

We dont lose at home and we will prove that again :D

[Screamin_Eagle174]

Like I said... amatures.

It's amateur. Damn amateur. xsmhx


:D

[LehighFan11]

UNH wins by 36 and drops two spots

xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx xlolx

Up two spots, not down. UNH isn't all that anyway, anything above 15 should please you.

[FargoBison]

My Poll

Team-Rank-Previous
1. James Madison(3)
2. Montana(2)
3. Cal Poly(4)
4. Appalachian St.(6)
5. Villanova(9)
6. Richmond(1)
7. McNeese St.(7)
8. Wofford(8)
9. Southern Illinois(14)
10. Furman(10)
11. Northern Iowa(5)
12. North Dakota St.(12)
13. Eastern Washington(13)
14. New Hampshire(15)
15. South Dakota St.(16)
16. Central Arkansas(11)
17. The Citadel(17)
18. Massachusetts(18)
19. Elon(19)
20. Jacksonville St.(22)
21. Western Illinois(21)
22. Liberty(NR)
23. Hampton(NR)
24. Sam Houston St.(NR)
25. Northern Arizona(NR)

[appfan2008]

Up two spots, not down. UNH isn't all that anyway, anything above 15 should please you.

well they are undefeated and have a fbs win

[WrenFGun]

well they are undefeated and have a fbs win

...and much like last season, people will discount the value of the FBS win and vote accordingly. And much like last year, it'll make a difference for UNH's playoff chances.

[LehighFan11]

...and much like last season, people will discount the value of the FBS win and vote accordingly. And much like last year, it'll make a difference for UNH's playoff chances.

Any FCS top 25 team with a solid offense could beat Army. UNH has such a weak schedule they can't lose more than 1 game and get into the playoffs IMO.

[uofmman1122]

Any FCS top 25 team with a solid offense could beat Army. UNH has such a weak schedule they can't lose more than 1 game and get into the playoffs IMO.If UNH loses just one game, they'll get a seed. Guaranteed.

[LehighFan11]

If UNH loses just one game, they'll get a seed. Guaranteed.

Yea only 1 though. 2 losses, they shouldn't, especially if that loss is @ Umass, their only legit game.

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

Any FCS top 25 team with a solid offense could beat Army. UNH has such a weak schedule they can't lose more than 1 game and get into the playoffs IMO.

How I'd love to see Lehigh's record if they had to play the UNH schedule! I'd love to see any Patriot League team's record with that same schedule!! I don't think it would be pretty. No guarantee that UNH ends up with a gaudy record either.

If it were to happen, I'm pretty sure an 8-3 UNH team would make the playoffs in a heartbeat over any PL team with an 8-3 record based on SOS. I'm not sure a PL team with a 9-2 record could get an at large bid over an 8-3 UNH. Unless the Ivy steps up BIG time, all those OOC games the PL has with the Ivy aren't going to get it done for the PL. And so far I don't think the PL's other OOC games are going to get it done either.

Correct me if I'm wrong:

UNH whips Dartmouth in Hanover. Better hope that all the Ivy also spanks the Big Green as well as Colgate and Holy Cross doing the same.

The Citadel beats Princeton. Better hope that Colgate and your Engineers do the same.

Brown beats Stony Brook. That win is losing luster with every week of the season. Better hope that Brown beats URI Saturday.

Penn loses to Villanova in OT. Better hope that Penn finishes high in the Ivy Standings so that this game doesn't look like a rivalry aberration and 'Nova looking ahead to their game with Richmond.

Towson beats Columbia. Arguably the worse CAA team this year beats arguably the worst Ivy team. No bump for the PL from this game.

Translation: No quality wins by the Ivy to help boost the PL's national standing.

Fordham's win over URI was a quality OOC win. How much has that been neutralized by Dayton's win over Fordham and the Flyer's subsequent loss to Duquesne as well as the loss at home to Colgate? Is it an any given Saturday type win?

Colgate's win over Coastal Carolina is tarnished with the apparent zebra screw-up. Sixteen point loss to Stony Brook is looking worse and worse each week. Twenty one point loss at home to Furman isn't going to help the Raider's cause.

Holy Cross had a good game with UMass, the next few weeks will tell us how good it actually was. Too bad the rest of the Crusaders OOC games are with the Ancient Eight.

Lafayette has a chance to boost the PL's cause with its game with Liberty.

Lehigh beat Drake and got beat by Villanova. Don't think they get any bump from those results.

Bucknell beat Duquesne and has a game with Hofstra coming up that could give the PL a bump.

Georgetown plays Richmond down the road which could give a huge boost, but how realistic is that?

Translation: I don't see resumes for any PL team that is going to get it an at large bid over a team from the CAA, SoCon, MVC, or Big Sky. And good luck with OVC, MEAC and Southland teams.

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

Any FCS top 25 team with a solid offense could beat Army. UNH has such a weak schedule they can't lose more than 1 game and get into the playoffs IMO.


If UNH loses just one game, they'll get a seed. Guaranteed.


Yea only 1 though. 2 losses, they shouldn't, especially if that loss is @ Umass, their only legit game.

Two losses and they probably don't get a seed, but here's a news flash for you -- they'll make the playoffs. There won't even be a question about that. xeekx

UMass as their only legit game? OMG, that's just too hilarious coming from a Patriot League school fan. Guess that means that your Engineers don't have any legit games because you don't consider Villanova a legit game. xwhistlex xwhistlex

[jlcharles]

Two losses and they probably don't get a seed, but here's a news flash for you -- they'll make the playoffs. There won't even be a question about that. xeekx

UMass as their only legit game? OMG, that's just too hilarious coming from a Patriot League school fan. Guess that means that your Engineers don't have any legit games because you don't consider Villanova a legit game. xwhistlex xwhistlex

Beat me to it. News flash, UNH will win the CAA North. Book it.

[appfan2008]

Two losses and they probably don't get a seed, but here's a news flash for you -- they'll make the playoffs. There won't even be a question about that. xeekx

UMass as their only legit game? OMG, that's just too hilarious coming from a Patriot League school fan. Guess that means that your Engineers don't have any legit games because you don't consider Villanova a legit game. xwhistlex xwhistlex

thanks to that schedule

[jlcharles]

...and much like last season, people will discount the value of the FBS win and vote accordingly. And much like last year, it'll make a difference for UNH's playoff chances.

Beating Marshall last year was akin to beating up on your little sister. I still think the better conference record should have gotten Nova in over UNH. But, whatever. UNH is going to make the playoffs and it won't come down to the wire like last year.

[jlcharles]

thanks to that schedule

No CAA game is easy, no matter how bad the team may be. Richmond made the playoffs last year and lost to Towson.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Two losses and they probably don't get a seed, but here's a news flash for you -- they'll make the playoffs. There won't even be a question about that.

Agreed on making the playoffs at 9-2, but what if they go 8-3 with their only losses coming to Villanova, UMass and... Maine or Northeastern? Their only quality win will be against an (IMO) 0-11 Army team. And make no bones about it: Army is an awful team. They would be under .500 in the CAA for sure.

If they go 9-2, they will be sent on the road to either Montana or McNeese. Book that, too.

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

thanks to that schedule

It's still a better schedule than the vast majority of FCS teams play just because of the overall quality and depth of the CAA. Remember "all of FCS" includes the Ivy, Big South, NEC, Patriot, Pioneer, MEAC, SWAC, OVC, etc. And I'll say it again, until the entire schedule plays out the overall strength of Villanova and William & Mary vis-a-vis Richmond, JMU and Delaware won't be know. And even if they don't prove to be their equal, they are still quite formidable opponents.

And none of our eleven opponents will flop over and virtually forfeit the games. Dang, Albany was like a team full of Rudy's with better size and more ability but with the same attitude!! If Army is such an easy opponent, then why didn't UMass and URI win there in the past few years?

Just curious, what do you think UNH's changes would be to earn the AQ in the Patriot, MEAC, OVC?

The UNH schedule sure as heck isn't a free ride into the playoffs. xrolleyesx I'm a long way from being convinced that UNH is the playoff lock that Gannon Fan and 89Hen think they are. (I think both you guys expressed that opinion. xconfusedx )

[Rob Iola]

um, as a general rule any CAA team that goes 9-2 gets a playoff berth, AQ or not...

same for most, but not all (e.g., MEAC), AQ conferences...

baring injury (big if obviously) - UNH goes 9-2 or better this season...

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

Agreed on making the playoffs at 9-2, but what if they go 8-3 with their only losses coming to Villanova, UMass and... Maine or Northeastern? Their only quality win will be against an (IMO) 0-11 Army team. And make no bones about it: Army is an awful team. They would be under .500 in the CAA for sure.

At 8-3 it depends on what many other teams do and how many teams get the seven D-I wins. In your scenario, W&M can still be a quality win. Shoot we haven't played enough league games yet to know where most of the CAA teams fall. And you conveniently forget that just about every CAA win is a good win and that I betcha with five CAA wins that there will be one or two viewed as a quality win. I'll take our chances at 8-3 in the at-large comparison with teams from the Patriot, MEAC, OVC and possibly the Southland (because of hurricanes and the status of Central Arkansas). Teams from the SoCon, CAA, Big Sky and NVC that play 12 game schedules could cause a problem for UNH in any comparison.


If they go 9-2, they will be sent on the road to either Montana or McNeese. Book that, too.

Duh, we don't out bid too many teams and because of our location are prime candidates for the "since they have to get on a plane anyway" decision -- see GA Southern in 2004, Northern Iowa in 2007. It would be an honor and fantastic experience to play at Montana or McNeese even in a losing effort. Beats the hell out of not making the playoffs. And one has to beat them somewhere along the way to progress in the playoffs. And there won't be any whining from outside the Northeast that UNH got a free pass to the Quarterfinals because we played the Patriot League Champion.

Personally, I love those inter-sectional games in the playoffs because they just won't happen in the regular season. They make the season and the experience so much richer than just playing the same teams in the Northeast. Of course I'd prefer one that I could drive to, but I have absolutely no regrets about going out to Northern Iowa last year. Had a great time and left proud as hell with the performance of my alma mater.

[WrenFGun]

Good to see Lehigh apparently hates UNH. Add it to the list.

UNH will not be penalized for playing their portion of the CAA schedule. It is not their fault that they are not playing the elite CAA south competition, though they will be penalized when compared to other 8-3 teams from the CAA, if they are 8-3. I don't even want to hear the nonsense about the schedule...UNH plays a WEAK CAA schedule, but plays a fine schedule when it considers the rest of FCS. With the exception of the SoCon, MVFC and Big Sky, UNH's schedule is better than any other team in any other conference.

Additionally, UNH currently has quality games lined up with William & Mary, UMass, Villanova and Maine. While I agree I would feel more comfortable if we beat either UMass or 'Nova, I think there would be very minimal chance UNH wouldn't get in at 8-3, and there's absolutely no chance they don't get in at 9-2.

There was a DIRECT QUOTE during last year's bracket announcements that said that the value of win over any FBS team is significant. PERIOD. Live with it.

What is this? Is UNH the new Montana all of a sudden?

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

Beating Marshall last year was akin to beating up on your little sister. I still think the better conference record should have gotten Nova in over UNH. But, whatever. UNH is going to make the playoffs and it won't come down to the wire like last year.

I don't think Marshall went anywhere close to 0-11 or 0-12 last year. Seem to recall them playing West Virginia pretty tough the week before the UNH game. I'm sorry but I don't buy into the mediocre FBS team is a slam dunk for a good FCS team theory. There would be significantly more FCS wins if that was the case. Marshall was a quality win for UNH last year.

And here's something I posted in the "Playoff Quality" Thread a couple of months ago. I think there was a pretty good reason why the committee picked UNH over Villanova despite having a poorer CAA record.


Common opponents for the Wildcats last year:

Maine: Nova at home by 7 in OT; UNH at home by 25
JMU: Nova loses in VA by 28; UNH loses in VA by 17
Richmond: Nova loses in VA by 8; UNH loses in VA by 7 (UNH throwing non-hail Mary pass into the end zone as time expires)
Delaware: Nova at home by 16-10; UNH wins at home by 5, 35-30 after having 35-10 lead.
Hofstra: Nova at home by 4; UNH wins in NY by 40-3
UMass: Nova loses in MA by 8 in 4OT; UNH loses in MA by 20

First time I've actually looked at the results versus common opponents and I sure can see why the committee picked UNH. I'll give the Main Liners the UMass advantage, but UNH has a significant advantage versus Hofstra and Maine as well as a slight advantage versus JMU and maybe even Delaware since Santos got hurt during that game and UNH had a huge lead.


And don't forget that both Hofstra and Delaware were undefeated when UNH beat them in October.

[mcveyrl]

At 8-3 it depends on what many other teams do and how many teams get the seven D-I wins.

The only thing about an 8-3 UNH that would scare me is where the 3 losses came from. Here's their CAA schedule:

v. W&M
@ N'Eastern
v. Towson
v. Hofstra
@ Villanova
v. UMass
@ Maine



Best case scenario for 3 losses is losing to Villanova, UMass and either W&M or N'Eastern (neither of those would be a "good" loss, IMO).

That means that your in conference wins aren't that impressive (Maine already has two conference losses and neither Hofstra nor Towson appears to be headed anywhere good, no offense to those fans).

I would not be comfortable as a UNH fan with an 8-3 record.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Good to see Lehigh apparently hates UNH. Add it to the list.

UNH will not be penalized for playing their portion of the CAA schedule. It is not their fault that they are not playing the elite CAA south competition, though they will be penalized when compared to other 8-3 teams from the CAA, if they are 8-3. I don't even want to hear the nonsense about the schedule...UNH plays a WEAK CAA schedule, but plays a fine schedule when it considers the rest of FCS. With the exception of the SoCon, MVFC and Big Sky, UNH's schedule is better than any other team in any other conference.

Lehigh hates UNH??? xconfusedx I fail to see how you make that leap of faith.

Hey, UNH played the hardest schedule in FCS last year, and got rewarded for it by being the 5th CAA team to make the playoffs. But this year, there is a chance (not a certainty, but a chance) that you'll be 2006 UMass who went 8-3 and didn't make the playoffs since they didn't have a "quality win". If I'm on the committee, I don't see Army as that "quality win".

What this should do is start a new debate about the merits of a 12-team conference where one year UNH plays one of the most brutal schedules in FCS and the next they play a bunch of sub-.500 leaguemates. With a 12-team conference (soon to be 14), there's a near-guaranteeg that there is going to be one or multiple 2007 Hofstra or 2006 UMass-type teams every year that simply can't claim that "the CAA is hard" as a reason for the fourth or fifth-place team from their conference should be automatically given an at-large bid over, say, Cal Poly.

But it won't.

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

LFN, the 2006 UMass team wasn't 8-3, they went to the National Championship game after an 8-0 A-10 record. You might be thinking about 2005, but they were 7-4 that year.

The 2007 Hofstra team was also 7-4 and tied with UNH in the CAA North. The UNH 40-0 win at Hofstra pretty much answers the question of why they didn't make the playoffs.

[LehighFan11]

How I'd love to see Lehigh's record if they had to play the UNH schedule! I'd love to see any Patriot League team's record with that same schedule!! I don't think it would be pretty. No guarantee that UNH ends up with a gaudy record either.

If it were to happen, I'm pretty sure an 8-3 UNH team would make the playoffs in a heartbeat over any PL team with an 8-3 record based on SOS. I'm not sure a PL team with a 9-2 record could get an at large bid over an 8-3 UNH. Unless the Ivy steps up BIG time, all those OOC games the PL has with the Ivy aren't going to get it done for the PL. And so far I don't think the PL's other OOC games are going to get it done either.

Correct me if I'm wrong:

UNH whips Dartmouth in Hanover. Better hope that all the Ivy also spanks the Big Green as well as Colgate and Holy Cross doing the same.

The Citadel beats Princeton. Better hope that Colgate and your Engineers do the same.

Brown beats Stony Brook. That win is losing luster with every week of the season. Better hope that Brown beats URI Saturday.

Penn loses to Villanova in OT. Better hope that Penn finishes high in the Ivy Standings so that this game doesn't look like a rivalry aberration and 'Nova looking ahead to their game with Richmond.

Towson beats Columbia. Arguably the worse CAA team this year beats arguably the worst Ivy team. No bump for the PL from this game.

Translation: No quality wins by the Ivy to help boost the PL's national standing.

Fordham's win over URI was a quality OOC win. How much has that been neutralized by Dayton's win over Fordham and the Flyer's subsequent loss to Duquesne as well as the loss at home to Colgate? Is it an any given Saturday type win?

Colgate's win over Coastal Carolina is tarnished with the apparent zebra screw-up. Sixteen point loss to Stony Brook is looking worse and worse each week. Twenty one point loss at home to Furman isn't going to help the Raider's cause.

Holy Cross had a good game with UMass, the next few weeks will tell us how good it actually was. Too bad the rest of the Crusaders OOC games are with the Ancient Eight.

Lafayette has a chance to boost the PL's cause with its game with Liberty.

Lehigh beat Drake and got beat by Villanova. Don't think they get any bump from those results.

Bucknell beat Duquesne and has a game with Hofstra coming up that could give the PL a bump.

Georgetown plays Richmond down the road which could give a huge boost, but how realistic is that?

Translation: I don't see resumes for any PL team that is going to get it an at large bid over a team from the CAA, SoCon, MVC, or Big Sky. And good luck with OVC, MEAC and Southland teams.

You serious? When did I even mention the PL when talking about wether UNH should make the playoffs? Such a cheap shot. Yea the PL sucks, 1 bid league, duh don't beat it to death.
OK heres the story on UNH.
Win over Army is solid, doesn't put you in the playoffs tho.
Wins over Darthmouth and URI are neutral.
Win over Albany could end up being solid.
Games vs. NU, Towson, Hofstra, and Maine can only hurt UNH.
Quality games remaining are: W&M, @ Nova, Umass.
So if they go 1-2 vs. those quality games, you think they should get in? They need to beat atleast 1 playoff team. If they lose to Nova and Umass and beat WM ( they probably aren't a playoff team), UNH won't get in.

Next time, defend your own team, don't take a shot at the PL if they are completely irrelevant to the topic.

[WrenFGun]

Well, a win over Marshall last year was enough to get a 7-4 team in, along with a tough schedule. It's reasonable to make the same leap that an 8-3 team with an FBS win would get in. You're correct, though, I won't sleep easily if we're 8-3 without a win over 'Nova or Umass.

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

What this should do is start a new debate about the merits of a 12-team conference where one year UNH plays one of the most brutal schedules in FCS and the next they play a bunch of sub-.500 leaguemates. With a 12-team conference (soon to be 14), there's a near-guaranteeg that there is going to be one or multiple 2007 Hofstra or 2006 UMass-type teams every year that simply can't claim that "the CAA is hard" as a reason for the fourth or fifth-place team from their conference should be automatically given an at-large bid over, say, Cal Poly.

But it won't.

It won't because the CAA slate is truly difficult no matter how the schedule breaks out. As long as the CAA teams continue to do well in the playoffs and in their match-ups with FBS teams, the perception of the conference strength will continue. What if Maine ends up at 4-4 or under .500, they'll have two wins against Stony Brook and Monmouth. What if UNH ends up at 4-4 or sub .500, they still have wins over FBS Army, Albany and Dartmouth. What if Delaware ends up 4-4 or sub .500, they'll have a seven point loss at Maryland, a close lose at Furman and a decisive win over Albany. What if Northeastern ends up 4-4 or sub .500, they'll have an overtime loss at GA Southern, a close loss at FBS Syracuse and a win over UC Davis.

And it's why even when "they play a bunch of sub-.500 league mates", that they'll fare well in the at-large discussion. Until more Ivy, Patriot, MEAC, and NEC teams schedule more games against power leagues and/or have more 2003 Colgate playoff success, then the perception of the relative strength of mid-tier CAA teams probably isn't going to change either. You should be thankful that Albany had the relative success this year that they did. (And hope that UMass, Hofstra, UNH and Delaware have continued success so the Dane's performance doesn't lose some luster.) Too bad more teams didn't step up the same way.

[mcveyrl]

Well, a win over Marshall last year was enough to get a 7-4 team in, along with a tough schedule. It's reasonable to make the same leap that an 8-3 team with an FBS win would get in. You're correct, though, I won't sleep easily if we're 8-3 without a win over 'Nova or Umass.

I guess my issue would be that if you beat 'Nova or UMass, who did you lose to in order to go 8-3...depending on who that it, it could hurt you.

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

You serious? When did I even mention the PL when talking about wether UNH should make the playoffs? Such a cheap shot. Yea the PL sucks, 1 bid league, duh don't beat it to death.
OK heres the story on UNH.
Win over Army is solid, doesn't put you in the playoffs tho.
Wins over Darthmouth and URI are neutral.
Win over Albany could end up being solid.
Games vs. NU, Towson, Hofstra, and Maine can only hurt UNH.
Quality games remaining are: W&M, @ Nova, Umass.
So if they go 1-2 vs. those quality games, you think they should get in? They need to beat atleast 1 playoff team. If they lose to Nova and Umass and beat WM ( they probably aren't a playoff team), UNH won't get in.

Next time, defend your own team, don't take a shot at the PL if they are completely irrelevant to the topic.

Oh, and you didn't take a cheap shot saying my team wouldn't get into the playoffs with two losses? xconfusedx xconfusedx You did say that. I wasn't supposed to take that seriously? xconfusedx xconfusedx xconfusedx

I mentioned the PL because they are one of the leagues that could earn an at-large bid and wanted to prove that UNH at 8-3 was more deserving. And I know more about the PL because they are in the same region of the country and I previously researched the PL and Ivy teams schedules. If you've been paying attention these past couple of months, I've never said the PL sucks. I have often said that the PL is hurting itself with its scheduling philosophy.

There are eight at-large bids. I don't think the Patriot will get one and you seem to concur. UNH's opportunity at 8-3 will be dependent on what teams from other conferences do, not whether they beat a playoff team. AFAIK, that's not an actual criteria. If the Patriot, NEC, MEAC, Southland, Big South and Ohio Valley don't happen to have too many teams in the at large discussion, then more at-large teams will come from the CAA, SoCon, Big Sky and MVC. If those conferences have multiple teams with seven D-I ones, then UNH's chances are lessened at 8-3. If they don't provide sufficient teams with the seven wins and a superior resume, then UNH would probably get a bid regardless if they beat a playoff team or not.

Read the thread about Liberty's chances for a bid and you'll see how precarious it is for Liberty and Coastal. No one else in the Big South has a chance. Read the thread about McNeese's playoff chances and you'll see that there's a good chance that the Southland will be a one bid league. Does anyone in the NEC have a chance? Is anyone in the OVC or MEAC looming to be an at large candidate? Have you read about Eastern Washington's rough road with those two FBS losses and a game vs. a D-II?

How many teams in the CAA, SoCon, NVC and Big Sky are going to end the season with seven D-I wins? It's an attrition game. At 8-3 UNH is not a lock, but they most assuredly will be in the discussion and have a good chance for an at large bid. If they don't make it then I'll chalk it up to the SOS and fall back on making it last year because of our SOS like LFN pointed out. But to say they won't be in the discussion nor worthy is just crazy.

[LehighFan11]

Oh, and you didn't take a cheap shot saying my team wouldn't get into the playoffs with two losses? xconfusedx xconfusedx You did say that. I wasn't supposed to take that seriously? xconfusedx xconfusedx xconfusedx

I mentioned the PL because they are one of the leagues that could earn an at-large bid and wanted to prove that UNH at 8-3 was more deserving. And I know more about the PL because they are in the same region of the country and I previously researched the PL and Ivy teams schedules. If you've been paying attention these past couple of months, I've never said the PL sucks. I have often said that the PL is hurting itself with its scheduling philosophy.

There are eight at-large bids. I don't think the Patriot will get one and you seem to concur. UNH's opportunity at 8-3 will be dependent on what teams from other conferences do, not whether they beat a playoff team. AFAIK, that's not an actual criteria. If the Patriot, NEC, MEAC, Southland, Big South and Ohio Valley don't happen to have too many teams in the at large discussion, then more at-large teams will come from the CAA, SoCon, Big Sky and MVC. If those conferences have multiple teams with seven D-I ones, then UNH's chances are lessened at 8-3. If they don't provide sufficient teams with the seven wins and a superior resume, then UNH would probably get a bid regardless if they beat a playoff team or not.

Read the thread about Liberty's chances for a bid and you'll see how precarious it is for Liberty and Coastal. No one else in the Big South has a chance. Read the thread about McNeese's playoff chances and you'll see that there's a good chance that the Southland will be a one bid league. Does anyone in the NEC have a chance? Is anyone in the OVC or MEAC looming to be an at large candidate? Have you read about Eastern Washington's rough road with those two FBS losses and a game vs. a D-II?

How many teams in the CAA, SoCon, NVC and Big Sky are going to end the season with seven D-I wins? It's an attrition game. At 8-3 UNH is not a lock, but they most assuredly will be in the discussion and have a good chance for an at large bid. If they don't make it then I'll chalk it up to the SOS and fall back on making it last year because of our SOS like LFN pointed out. But to say they won't be in the discussion nor worthy is just crazy.
Ok so if we assume that the only 2+ bid leagues are CAA, SoCon, Big Sky, and MVC. That is an average of 2 atlarge bids per league. You think UNH is top 3 CAA w/ that schedule? They don't even play the top two teams. 9-2 UNH will have a strong case, I don't see it at 8-3. Just because UNH goes 9-2, doesn't mean they will get in because of that lack of quality wins. If they lose to Nova and Umass, how are they going to get in over those teams, let alone JMU and Richmond. UNH is top 6 in CAA, but CAA isn't getting 6.

[yorkcountyUNHfan]

Ok so if we assume that the only 2+ bid leagues are CAA, SoCon, Big Sky, and MVC. That is an average of 2 atlarge bids per league. You think UNH is top 3 CAA w/ that schedule? They don't even play the top two teams. 9-2 UNH will have a strong case, I don't see it at 8-3. Just because UNH goes 9-2, doesn't mean they will get in because of that lack of quality wins. If they lose to Nova and Umass, how are they going to get in over those teams, let alone JMU and Richmond. UNH is top 6 in CAA, but CAA isn't getting 6.


Who are the top two CAA teams?

[LehighFan11]

Who are the top two CAA teams?

JMU
Richmond(I'm not bumping them because of a loss @ Nova)

[UNH_Alum_In_CT]

Ok so if we assume that the only 2+ bid leagues are CAA, SoCon, Big Sky, and MVC. That is an average of 2 atlarge bids per league. You think UNH is top 3 CAA w/ that schedule? They don't even play the top two teams. 9-2 UNH will have a strong case, I don't see it at 8-3. because UNH goes 9-2, doesn't mean they will get in because of that lack of quality wins. If they lose to Nova and Umass, how are they going to get in over those teams, let alone JMU and Richmond. UNH is top 6 in CAA, but CAA isn't getting 6.

When was the last time a team from the CAA/A-10/Yankee, SoCon, MVC or Big Sky didn't get into the playoffs with a 9-2 record? Has it ever happened? There have only been a few at 8-3 that didn't make the 16 team field. I think it is pretty safe to say that ANY CAA team is an absolute lock at 9-2 in the current environment.

BTW, if UNH loses to Nova and UMass, they could get in before those teams if Nova loses to JMU, UD and W&M or if UMass loses to UD and Richmond. There are lots of ways it could happen, everybody is assuming no upsets will occur which just isn't reasonable. Just like there is no guarantee that JMU and Richmond will be at the top of the CAA. Just like I've said there is no guarantee that UNH gets to 8-3, let alone 9-2. People on AGS try to map out the playoff field in late October and things don't go to form. That's why they play the games on the field. Injuries happen, bad weather happens, bad travel circumstances happen, teams get fired up, bad match-ups occur, teams have to play at Parsons (:p :p and yes UNH is one of them and I am sufficiently worried), etc.

There's too much football to play yet!!!!! And I'm glad that I'm busy the next few days so I don't get drawn into this discussion any deeper. :p :D

[yorkcountyUNHfan]

JMU
Richmond(I'm not bumping them because of a loss @ Nova)


So 3-2 Richmond is better than 3-1 Villanova despite the head to head game because LF11 says so.

WM may be better then you think... along with Maine or NU. Give it a month.

[LehighFan11]

So 3-2 Richmond is better than 3-1 Villanova despite the head to head game because LF11 says so.

WM may be better then you think... along with Maine or NU. Give it a month.

I don't overreact because of 1 game. Good win for Nova but the season isn't defined by 1 game.