ATN podcast: Only the scores surprised
26
Nov
2007
Nov
2007
So Keith McMillan and I were on the record as not being surprised at the eight teams which won in Saturday’s second round.
The margins of victory? Definitely a difference. Does it matter that Bethel/UW-Eau Claire was so close? Which conferences made big leaps forward in Week 12 and 13? Who leaves the second round of the playoffs disappointed and who leaves them with an optimistic outlook?
We’ve got two rematches and two new matchups. Now that we’re down to eight teams, who will benefit the most from the reshuffled bracket? And where will we find ourselves on Saturday?
More in the ATN podcast.
November 26th, 2007 at 10:58 am
Keith,
I left a longer post in “Game Day from Regional Semifinals,” but Bethel - Central have 4 common opponents, not 2…BV, UST, Simpson, SJU…Central 4-0, Bethel 3-1
I’m expecting a showdown on Saturday in Pella
November 26th, 2007 at 11:22 am
Good update on the podcast.
Another November comes to a close, and another year I am thankful that I played/follow/and fan of D3 football - a place where champions are decided ON THE FIELD! D1 facing another year where an undefeated team won’t have an opportunity to play for a championship and a whole slew of 1 and 2 loss teams lobbying a board room to get their multi million dollar pay day in a BS Bowl.
Can’t way for this weekend’s matchup
November 26th, 2007 at 11:56 am
Remind me — the BS Bowl is played where again? Is that the Big Ten’s seventh team against the WAC’s No. 3?
November 26th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
what do you guys make of the third straight regional matchup between MHB and Wesley do you think Wesley has what it takes to pull out another win agiants the Cru
November 26th, 2007 at 1:58 pm
Listen to the podcast.
November 26th, 2007 at 3:54 pm
Okay….just my picks for the Semis….
Mount Union vs Central
Mary Hardin Baylor vs UWW
November 26th, 2007 at 7:43 pm
i think it is about time that wesley gets some respect for beating umhb 2 straight years!!! the question should not be does wesley have what it takes to pull out another win over the cru, but does the cru have what it takes to finally beat wesley. same teams, almost same personnel, what makes you think the results will be different?
November 26th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
I think I specified pretty clearly, actually, what led me to that belief. You did listen, I take it?
November 26th, 2007 at 8:07 pm
WESLEY HAS ALMOST NEVER GOTTEN ANY RESPECT FROM THE D3
FOLKS. THEY PICKED UMHB OVER WESLEY IN 2005 AND I THINK 2006. UMHB MAY BEAT WESLEY IN 2007, BUT WHAT DOES IT MEAN, THEY ARE BOTH GREAT TEAMS. IN MY OPINION THERE ARE NOT MANY GOOD TEAMS IN D3, MAY BE SIX. GOOD LUCK TO ONE AND ALL THIS WEEKEND.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:24 pm
pat, i did listen and your point is no different than the one i have made several times when it comes to wesley’s offense, can the qb get the job done? i think keith also stated that schatz has improved as the year has gone on. my comment is about umhb and their offense, they did not move the ball very well last year and wesley’s defense is better against the run this year. umhb returns 4 lineman, thrasher and welch. the run the same offense so it will be interesting to see if they can run the ball. if not, it has been mentioned here by several people that if they have to throw the ball they may be in trouble.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:54 pm
relax wesleydad, you’re going to get to see 2 excellent teams this weekend…the one player that you have omitted is quincy daniels. despite the terrible weather conditions he put up excellent numbers(38 degrees driving rain). he was a workhorse, and carried the load after thrasher left in the 1st qtr(ankle?)….
this team has had 2 seasons this year: before and after UWW. its the after that should concern all the remaining teams. the CRU is all business ie. jersey tucked in, respect for the opposition(except on the scoreboard) and a maturity level you only achieve after being beaten by a team you were supposed to beat…the CRUs’ businees like determination is going to be tough to beat….Good Luck
November 27th, 2007 at 1:17 am
What I think is going to be interesting to see is the Wesley and UMHB ground attack. If you look at both team’s rushing stats they look alot alike:
-Wesley averages 261.3 rushing yards per game. UMHB allows 36.2 rushing yards per game. Wesley has scored 30 rushing touchdowns. UMHB has allowed 9 rushing touchdowns.
-UMHB averages 382.4 rushing yards per game. Wesley allows 88.8 rushing yards per game. UMHB has scored 63 rushing touchdowns. Wesley has allowed 12 rushing touchdowns.
I really think the key to this game is if Wesley can stop UMHB rushing offense. If they can, then UMHB will have some trouble trying to get a passing offense going. If Wesley can get it going offensively through the air then UMHB will have some defensive troubles:
-Wesley averages 224.9 passing yards per game. UMHB allows 229.2 passing yards per game. Wesley has scored 25 passing touchdowns. UMHB has allowed 16 passing touchdowns.
-UMHB averages 144.1 passing yards per game. Wesley allows 169.9 passing yards per game. UMHB has scored 22 passing touchdowns. Wesley has allowed 10 passing touchdowns.
Also something to think about…UMHB has lost their leading reciever (Patrick Oliver, 6-7, with 560 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns) to a torn ACL.
I have seen UMHB play since my freshman year (the 2004 Stagg Bowl Runner-Up Team) and I really think that this year’s team is better then the past couple of years. So it should be interested to see what happens. It should be an amazing game, wish I could afford to make it to the game.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:25 am
Also, just as a side note… I have a question that I would like to hear other D3 Football fan’s opinions on. Spectator conduct. I know that sportsmanship announcements are made at the beginning and during NCAA sporting events (required by the NCAA), and I know that it is up to the host school’s game manager to deal with unruly fans. My question is…Is there problems at other D3 universities with both home and visiting fans shouting obscenities at players, officials, and other fans? Throughout this season I have noticed it more then ever. Sometimes it is so bad you can hear it across the field in the upper sections of the stadium. Is it really bad other places, or do us Texans really make everyone that mad?
November 27th, 2007 at 1:28 am
We have a separate recent topic on that:
http://www.d3football.com/dailydose/2007/11/15/support-participants-in-a-positive-manner/
November 27th, 2007 at 1:43 am
Sorry about the Central/Bethel common opponents, that’s too much off the top of the head, not enough research. We’ll make sure the writers get it right this week. Have features planned on both.
As for Wesley getting no respect from the D3 folks, wah-wah.
First, they get a ton of respect from us, in the rankings, face-to-face, etc. What you mean to say is that UMHB was perceived to be better than Wesley the past two years and that turned out not to be the case.
The 46-36 game in Texas was an upset, no shame in picking UMHB there. UMHB was a Stagg Bowl team the year before and Wesley was a playoff upstart.
Last year, UMHB’s 7-3 game against Whitewater, which dominated Wesley the year before (and again later), greatly influenced the perception of the Cru’s strength. I would probably make that pick again today.
As for this year, the past two results weigh heavily on my mind, even though some key personnel have changed. UMHB has been ultra-dominant in every game but UW-W, which is a non-factor comparing them to Wesley. But Wesley plays well in Dover and has tested itself with a very strong schedule this season, so they’re battle tested.
I think these two teams’ speed is a wash and depth is a wash. It’s easy to say the game will be won up front, or with turnovers … those can apply to most games.
I will have to go back and study the factors in the past two games. If I recall correctly, turnovers were a huge factor in the win in Texas. I think Beavers had a huge game then too. Last year, getting ahead really helped, but UMHB still made it a game until the late fumble return TD. But Warrick played really well, and Drass reminded me of that this week. He was all over UMHB’s blitzes, the hot reads, and the UMHB D couldn’t really get the pressure on Wesley. Covering those WRs for long periods of time usually doesn’t produce a good results.
I think both of these teams respect each other a lot, apparently more than the fans do.
A lot has changed even though much of the lineups are the same. Both teams are three tailbacks deep and can go with a change-of-pace back. Huntbach is out and Mario Harris is gone, so it’s not the same run D that stopped UMHB last year. Kubiak is gone for UMHB, Daniels plays a major role now and Schatz is a different QB than Warrick. And oh yeah, Larry Beavers is back.
My initial thought is that if Wesley’s OL can control UMHB’s smaller-but-faster defense, they might have their way. The Wolverines, for all their receiving prowess, actually gain more yards rushing. If they can achieve that balance again, the offense is bound to have a good day. If UMHB can rattle Schatz, or stop the run, different story.
Sounds like UMHB MLB Eric Henri was fine last week and should play again this week. Having Trasher healthy would help the Cru, but they’re without 6-foot-7 WR Patrick Oliver, who was really good when I saw him vs. HSU and is (or was) to UMHB what Wesley hopes Teron Murray will someday be.
If one were to use NCWC results (common opponent) as a measuring stick, picking against Wesley again would not be without reason. If one were to look at results from previous seasons that basically have no bearing on this season, picking Wesley would be a no-brainer.
I’m still undecided. I think both teams can do damage to the other. It’ll probably be Saturday’s best game, although you never know.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:21 am
On Wesley’s respect level - it is a top program. You don’t score wins over UMHB and advance as far as you do in the playoffs not being one. I think the reason why those that may be unfamilar with your program don’t want to be (speaking for me only) is that when you do lose in the playoffs it is been by huge margins.
So, from a respect standpoint - I think it can only go so far when there is that big of a gap.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:24 am
Now on to what will prove to be the biggest surprise of the weekend game: SJFC at MUC
Saw a replay of the IC game. They moved the ball on MUC all game. Three scoring drives, plus to drives that ended with INT’s in the endzone. IC was the third place team in the E8. . . Translation: Fisher will move the ball and put points up on this team to level that most of you here refuse to think is possible - - -
November 27th, 2007 at 9:58 am
D3keith:
Nice job on the Wesley/UMHB analysis. Shows how much you understand the ins and outs of D3.
Larry Beavers killed UMHB in 2005. UMHB double teamed Marcus Lee and Larry ran wild. His stats were something like 5 catches for 200+ yards and three long TDs. I was at the game in 2006 and I thought it was one of the best games I ever saw. Two good teams going head to head. Remember, Warrick fumbled on the first play last year that UMHB returned for a fumble and UMHB’s QB fumbled after getting ‘jacked up” in that same game which Wesley returned for a TD. I have seen ever Wesley game except Brockport this year and all of them last year. You are correct, they are a completely differ team this year. Much more balanced. It should be a great game.
The NCWC was Schatz’s first trip under center. He is a different player now but still prone to mistakes on reads and throws. He threw three red zone picks in the MCS game, the only game Wesley lost. I hope all that is behind him and that Jackson, etc. have another big day.
Since you picked against Wesley the last two years you may be our good luck charm so a UMHB pick might be in our favor.
By the way, I never cry just try to point out what happened.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:58 am
This is a really interesting thread. I started watching Wesley last year, being a neighborhood football fan needing a home team…. So I am a real late comer here.
A couple things I noticed this year for Wesley that marks a distinct difference. Obviously with Warrick gone, a lot of the magic of the passing game left with him. It’s been hard for Schatz to shed his reciever mentality and put the ball where it needs to go. Thankfully, it hasn’t resulted in too many short balls. As a result, Wesley has consistently started slow and built momentum as Schatz gets his passing arm warmed up and the Offensive line finds the lanes for the runners, pretty much opposite of last year. Luckily, Schatz is starting to use his legs more, which is paying off.
Turnovers have kept a lot of games close for Wesley as well. This was really evident at the start of the season, leading directly to the loss to Monclair State. Wesley’s ball discipline really improved over the second half of the season, however, that nasty bugger showed up for Muhlenberg with 2 fumbles giving the Mules the short field.
Now comes the real saving grace for Wesley: the defense. They repeatedly shut down opposing offenses when it really counted. Sure, their focus got lost in quite a few games when the lead got decent, but they hold the line. Judging by UMHB’s running vs passing stats, you would think that Wesley should do well if they hold the run. However, Mulhenberg passed the ball quite a bit in the first half and used that to establish the run, keeping the game an extremely close affair until the big plays came in. Will UMHB adjust their game plan to disrupt Wesley’s defence? Why run into a wall when you can run around it?
There is really no way we can assume either team’s dominance in this Saturday’s game. The trip for UMHB has to be taken into consideration as it was for NCWC, however. People wrote off Muhlenberg, but they really impressed me in the first half. But, again, you have to be there for both halves to win a game. Will UMHB be there for the second half?? I know Wesley will be….
I digress…. Either way, it will be very interesting to see what happens.
-Ski
November 27th, 2007 at 9:59 am
SJF
After you saw the IC film, did you watch the New Jersey film? Mount let the country know that what happened in the IC game will never happen again. It’s a shame that The lions had to be the scape goat. Trust what I say, Mount knows how tough SJF is and that makes the Purple Raiders all the more dangerous. (If that’ possible).
November 27th, 2007 at 10:05 am
I forgot to add that I would have loved to have seen a UMHB/WJC matchup. That would have a really been a telling game. But, of course, that is why D3 has a playoff. To bad the fools who run D1 cannot get the message. Wouldn’t you love to see how “real” Hawaii is during a playoff???????
November 27th, 2007 at 10:09 am
did I see TCNJ no - I don’t know if they replay it on their web or not - don’t really care though, they weren’t an E8 team.
SJF’s O-Line is a lot better than it was last year, and are way, way better than IC’s. Even after losing one of the best backs in D3 last year, as a team, are avg. more points than last year per game. MUC’s D-Line should be ready (I’m sure they will be) for their longest afternoon in a couple of years.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:04 pm
Teamski:
I like your post, it sheds some light on the subject. But I do want to respond to your last question. “Will UMHB be there for the second half??”
SCORE BY QUARTERS 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total
————————– — — — — —–
Mary Hardin-Baylor.. 140 219 209 105 -673
Opponents……….. 55 52 35 59 - 201
UMHB outscores their opponents 209 to 35 in the third quarter and 105 to 59 in the fourth (mainly because the score is so high they put in their 2nd and third stringers).
Score by quarters 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total
Wesley 84 129 124 120 457
Opponents 50 75 32 45 202
It might look like Wesley could have trouble in the first quarter, just based off of these stats. After the first quarter it looks like Wesley is pretty balanced the rest of the game.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:27 pm
R24Raider, TCNJ does not have a very good O at all, their D has been the main reason for their success. I don’t think TCNJ O is a good comparison to IC O or SJF O. I think MUC wil be pretty fired up though I hope SJF can make a good showing.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
umbhfella, one thing to look at this week is the quarterback position and how schatz comes out to start the game. all the games i have seen this year he has come out to fired up and makes some bad passes to start the game but once he settles down he can put the ball almost anywhere he wants to. also it seems like in the last two games wesley came out and started slow 7-7 halftime (38-21 final) last week and 17-3 (45-17 final) halftime against hampden-sydney 3-0 HS end of first quarter. if they start out slow again against umhb they might not have a shot in this game unless there defense makes big plays. if they come out and play like they did in the second half of last weeks game and hold on to the ball they have a really good shot to win the game.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
dlippiel -
SJF if going to do way more than make a good showing.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:56 pm
dlippiel,
Mount hung 59 on “the main reason for their success.” And 42 on IC. What I don’t understand is during the season everybody wants to bash Mount for competing in the “weak” OAC. So, the number one team in the nation gets moved to the east. Now, they’re lambasting everyone in that region and still these opponents aren’t worthy. IC and TCNJ were good football teams. Probably would have pushed any other team to the limit. Mount destroyed UWW in the Stagg Bowl two years in a row (and as I recall UWW is pretty solid). When will the the rest of D3 supporters realize that Mount doesn’t play in a weak conferance. They are not lucky. They don’t sneak in pro or div. I athletes each weak, and they are NOT a DIV II team playing in DIII. They are simply the best coached team in the country with players who will not compromise fundamentals at any cost. NO MAGIC!
November 27th, 2007 at 2:32 pm
r24aider~~~~~~~~~good post………..
November 27th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
R24aider - TCNJ is not of E8 quality. And as bad as the beating that MUC gave them, TCNJ still managed to put more points on the board than 7 of the 8 OAC teams MUC faced this season - go figure.
The most highly slurped player at MUC is a product of the E8 (Garcon).
And the third place team in the E8 drove the ball on IC “all day long” according to everyone (MUC fans) that watched the game.
SJF’s O-Line and offense in general is of higher quality than IC and of all the other teams MUC has seen in ‘07 thus far. . .
You’re right, MUC has beat up UWW the last two years - wake up, the prior two years don’t win today’s games and they’re not at the Stagg - they’re still in the Regionals and are facing a team that was one of their hardest opponents in two years and is improved over last.
November 27th, 2007 at 3:07 pm
SJF Fan,
You have got to be kidding me! Not of E8 quality? I, by no means mean to bash other teams in the E8, but WHAT QUALITY? You are trying to compare an entire conferance with a Nine, count em, Nine time National Champion! (soon to be 10). If you need to be reminded of the strength of the E8 and OAC, just look at the front page of the D3 website. Now, I’ll give you this, if SJF is planning on bringing the entire conferance Saturday to Alliance to help them, then Mount might, be in trouble. By the way, Capital has been one of Mounts toughest opponents the last two years. Hardly, SJF. SJF lost to Hartwick, and how long did they last this year? Pierre left that conferance to win a championship or 3, because lord knows nobody in the powerful E8 will win one.
Good Luck Saturday and may the best team win.
November 27th, 2007 at 3:11 pm
R24Raider I was not knocking MUC. I was simply pointing out that statisitically speaking TCNJ is not a strong offensive team hence the comparison to IC ’s O is not very applicable.
November 27th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
r24raider - I said TCNJ is not of E8 quality.
Just thinking about it, MUC would be a nice addition to the E8 though. And with Norwich leaving the door is open if MUC is looking for an upgrade in weekly comp. . .
November 27th, 2007 at 3:17 pm
hoping it is obvious - joking on the 2nd part of that last post.
November 27th, 2007 at 3:22 pm
Back to talking smack I see SJF fan…
The truth is Mount Union and the Raider fans dont need your respect…
We’ve got nine national championships in the last eleven years that proves the program knows how to win…And youre right, the prior two years dont win today’s games…our defense will though….just as last year’s close game doesnt mean SJF will still be in Sat’s game by halftime….by the way, I know Garcon is great…but if I were you Id be concerned about Nate Kmic a little too…ran all over the SJF D last year, and if we have success throwing the ball on Saturday,open up the field a little, he’ll do it again….and even if these two teams were evenly matched, and they’re not, but if they were…id still take Larry Kehres over any coach in the nation…SJF is more familiar now, and they’ll have the game plan in place and ready to go…you go ahead and talk your smack the rest of the week…. and I would hope SJF’s O is better than anything MUC has seen this year…it would be disappointing not to see better competition in the regionals for heavens sake…this week the Raiders will show you just how good they are, since nothing else seems to do it….
November 27th, 2007 at 3:24 pm
SJF,
The thing you seem to be forgetting is that Mount has seen your team before. They exploited your run defense last year, and with a healty Garcon this year they will exploit more than that. Like I’ve said before, Kehres is the best coach in D3 and always finds the weakness in his opponent. It’s not Mount’s defense you should be concerned with, it’s your defense you should be very, very, very worried about. If they can’t at least slow down Kmic it will be ugly.
Your prediction that Mount wouldn’t go through the east like it did the OAC hasn’t come about. So far the tally is Mount 101 East 25. Probably will be looking at a similar score this weekend instead of the score Mount won by last year.
November 27th, 2007 at 4:07 pm
TDD - the tally (meaningless) is that after two games the east has put more points than the OAC in 9.
I think you and MUCnash, have a conversation in your head then project, then type replies to items I never actually posted. Did I ever say Kehres was not the best? Did I ever say I didn’t know how many Nat Titles you guys have won? And I’ve already said about 2 dozen times that MUC is the best until someone beats them - - which will happen on Saturday BTW.
So relax - no one is disrespecting anybody (except for TCNJ it seems). MUC is the best and is the best team any other team has faced (UWW? perhaps). SJF will be by far the best MUC has seen this year. IC was the third place team in the E8 and moved the ball on MUC all game long. These really aren’t in dispute are they??
And on the, now that MUC has seen them, they’ll be more ready for them theory - that maybe true - it is a two way equation though and are you that naive to think SJF won’t be better prepared??
Its going to be a great Saturday!
November 27th, 2007 at 4:14 pm
TDD - one more thing - on your Kmic assessment - I agree totally. Kmic put in one of the best performances I ever saw a back put in on one team in one game in last year’s semi’s. He’s a hard charger for sure.
November 27th, 2007 at 4:31 pm
ALL MOUNT UNION FANS:
Everyone there in Alliance, OH seem to be pretty cocky. I would expect fans and followers of MUC to be a little more respectful than that. Oh Well, I guess that is what you get from people that are ignorant.
Let’s take a serious look at this game.
1. Mount Union is the best team in DIII football as we speak. But that doesn’t mean that they can not be beaten. Do not put them on a pedastal like they are some untouchable team.
2. SJF is by far a better team this year than they were last year. Rob Kramer has a little more experience, the offensive line is vastly improved, and the defense is also improved from last year.
3. There is all this talk about comparing previous opponents and looking at each others conference. Throw that stuff right out the window. This is the playoffs, a different season, anything can happen. Take LSU for instance, back at #1, suppose to be that team that wins the National Championship, LOST!!!
So please, don’t be so arrogant to think you team can not be beat, THEY CAN BE, and my prediction is that they WILL BE..
I am neither a MUC follower or a SJF follower, but from my view, I see SJF prevailing in this matchup:
Mount Union 31
St. John Fisher 42
November 27th, 2007 at 4:37 pm
SJF,
I know you’ve never said anything disrespectful about Kehres,but you are in a way disrespecting Mount by saying they play in a weak conference. Just because the first two opponents put a couple of points on the board doesn’t mean they gave Mount any more resistance than any OAC team. You were the one who said Mount was going to be tested. Did you mean tested on the football field or in the classroom because if those were test on the football field then I would say they get an A++++++++++. SJF may throw 14 on the board but when they give up 49 will that still be considered a stiff test. I would say no matter which conference they are in they would be a dominating team.
November 27th, 2007 at 4:56 pm
SJF Fan is just this year’s version of the guy we see every year. After Saturday we probably won’t see him again…or…he’ll be here to make excuses.
Same tired old record plays nearly every year.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:01 pm
SJF Fan Says:
November 27th, 2007 at 9:24 am
Now on to what will prove to be the biggest surprise of the weekend game: SJFC at MUC
Saw a replay of the IC game. They moved the ball on MUC all game. Three scoring drives, plus to drives that ended with INT’s in the endzone. IC was the third place team in the E8. . . Translation: Fisher will move the ball and put points up on this team to level that most of you here refuse to think is possible - - -
I guess when you look hard enough you can see anything you want. Two int’s in the endzone? Are you sure you were watching the right game? Just asking. Ithaca played a good game. I’m sure they’d say they could have played better. St. John’s will need to play better than that and I don’t know if they will and neither do you and your continuously telling us they will is a bit old.
Will you be around next week? And no moral victories right? By the way you talk nothing less than beating the Raiders will do, do I have that right?
November 27th, 2007 at 5:05 pm
SJF fan,
Fisher’s ride to Salem will end in Alliance….end of story.
And the only imagination at work on this board is yours…for several weeks now.
I only brought up Kehres and the 9 titles b/c your comments reflect that you forgot…And it does work both ways….fisher will be prepared as well…it also works both ways regarding level of competition. MUC will be the best D, the best O, the best coaching SJF has seen since last year’s game. Will Fisher be better prepared? It wont matter.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:12 pm
Ric and Bucks - you are correct - I am very biased. And Ric - yes, I personally do not believe in moral victories - play to win - period end of story.
On the IC game - I think I also said that I was clearly using law of small samples to form my opinion. Obviously the benefit of having a playoff is we get to see if our gut feelings were correct or if way off base. And as I have said all along - if I’m wrong - I’ll admit it - I don’t see a problem with that.
Ric - you may not have seen my very first post after the announced pairings of the NCAA’s which was “I always wondered how MUC would do if it had to play in the East on a weekly basis - now I get a chance to find out”. I pointed out that MUC’s avg margin of victory in ‘07 over the OAC was 51-1 and that I just didn’t think that would happen in the East region. Given D3 doesn’t have national TV exposure its not like I get a chance to view games, only what’s on the web and interpretation from available stats - so, I think it is fair to wonder that no?
Me posting that thought was interpreted as disrespect etc. etc. etc. Its not - I’ll repeat it one more time in case it has been mod’ed out: MUC is the best, and remains the best until proven otherwise. My strong belief (hope) is: that happens this Saturday.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
ric,
SJF Fan is too chicken to answer anything that will nail him down to having to stick to a position/prediction…arent you SJF?
November 27th, 2007 at 5:14 pm
WOW … Good job Wesley followers and Keith. I guess I don’t have to carry the Wesley banner alone anyore!
Teamski
Great observations.
Piperarcher
I disagree though that Wesley doesn’t get any respect here. There are always posters that say things just to get someones ire up. I think Pat and Keith have given good assessments of what they see.
I think that a lot of people see the scores and assume Wesley isn’t the team they were the last couple years. Well they aren’t!! The Offense has changed from a pass first, second and third and then run a little too run half the time pass half the time. A combination that has helped keep the Defense fresh and off the field for long periods of time. The quick score ability is still there and Schatz has the arm to make the big play. Teams that Wesley played this year have some good defenses. And it took a while for Wesley to find it’s new identity
November 27th, 2007 at 5:17 pm
wow…SJF you did answer it…good for you…
November 27th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
SJF Fan I just dont’ think comparing the East as a general statement to the OAC when what you are actually doing is comparing the playoff teams from the East the entire OAC is illogical, at least to me. How does Ithaca stack up against the OAC this year? In my opinion, well. How will St. John Fisher? I think equally well. How does the entire East? Not as well. The only OAC team that made the playoffs lost to Mount Union 37-0 and so far the East is averaging 50.5 to 12.5, an average of 38 pts a game, pretty much the same. Is that logical? No, but more so than lumping everyone as you keep doing.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:27 pm
TDD Says:
November 27th, 2007 at 4:37 pm
SJF,
I know you’ve never said anything disrespectful about Kehres,but you are in a way disrespecting Mount by saying they play in a weak conference”
——————–
On Post Patterns, a lot of MUC fans have been implying all season long that OAC has had an off year in ‘07. And after the IC game, there were quotes from fans that saw that game like: it was nice to see a real game, been waiting all season long, etc. etc.”
So I just picked up on their comments, backed by available stats (avg. score 51-1) and came to a conclusion on OAC (for ‘07 only). I don’t think that takes away from MUC. Especially if they continue to roll the brackets like its nobody’s business .
- I like SJF’s chances this week.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
deuces,
If I am not mistaking, Mount did lose. ONCE. In the last 400yrs or so! You are absolutely ridiculous. The reason Mount is as good as they are is because every week the coaches led by “The KING” make sure every player on Mounts team, all 210, know that they can be beat by each weeks opponant. Hence, they do not take anyone lightly, and they don’t make too many mistakes. It’s you outsiders that think our players and fans take winning for granted. You see, WINNING is a way of life at Mount, not just something you try and do on Saturday’s. Get it, yet. That is what separates US from the rest of the world!! Please, if your not a Mount follower, how would you know anything about the fans or team. Later.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
R24aider-
You are joking right? Mount Union destroyed Whitewater the last two years? Wow, I could be wrong but last time I checked winning by 7 and 19 isn’t exactly destroying another team. And the 19 point difference really is decieving, I believe Whitewater only trailed by 1 at the half and if that blocked punt wouldn’t have occured who knows how the game would have turned out, but we can’t do anything about that now.
I have lots and lots of respect for the Mount Union program because they are a dynasty and everyone is looking to knock them off. That being said Raider fans you are getting way too cocky. You do realize that you’re not unbeatable right? Every football team has a weakness, some bigger than others, but if a team figures out how to exploit it they could *gasp* lose.
As a big time Whitewater fan I hope Mount Union gets back to the Stagg Bowl and I’m sure most of the Warhawks fans and players feel the same way. I want my second ride back from Salem to be much sweeter than my first. But both teams will have to take care of business first, as I said earlier good luck to all 8 teams this weekend. Hopefully we won’t see anymore blowouts this week.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
Is SJF d3knowitall in disguise?
November 27th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
BiasD3FootballFan,
To be honest the Mount Fans are tired of seeing UWW. It’s the same old story, UWW blows everybody out in the self proclaimed “world’s toughest conf.” Then meets Mount only to lose. Blaa, Blaa, Blaa. Oh, by the way whether you lose by 7 or 19 it’s still a big fat “L”. Since the NCAA gave us new blood for the bracket, it would be fun to beat some new blood if we make it to the stagg. Like I said before we don’t take anyone for granted. Mount has two games left before it can think about the Stagg. But I will leave you with a couple of things to ponder: when your team has NINE National Champ rings, you can be a little cocky. That leaves you and the rest of the country wanting. Hunger is a good thing. Second, Dear UWW fan, to be the best, you got to beat the best.
Pretty original huh? Just like Mount winning.
later
November 27th, 2007 at 5:54 pm
Hi — it’s not just the self-proclaimed toughest conference in Division III.
http://www.d3football.com/columns/around-the-nation/2007-09-26/How+we+ranked+the+conferences
http://www.d3football.com/columns/around-the-nation/2006-08-30/ATN%27s+2006+conference+rankings
It’s great to have the best team in the country, yes. Get back to us if Muskingum beats Platteville or Wilmington beats UW-River Falls.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:57 pm
Destroyed is a little strong, but BiasD3….no one thinks Mount is unbeatable…you dont have to look very far back to see that they are not…no one could have predicted Ohio Northern to go into Alliance and shock the Raiders two years ago…but they did…
Im gonna stay off the board until Salem….I should have just followed my gut and let Mount’s play do the talking….SJF fan got me going…I’m out…
November 27th, 2007 at 6:56 pm
dlippiel - You beat me to the punch……..SJF Fan is last year’s d3knowitall (still the second greatest oxymoron next to jumbo shrimp!!). It’s like me talking smack about the Eagles in the week leading up to Sunday night’s game…….as the greatest underdog in the last 25 years……with a journeyman, backup QB and a fourth string safety (against those receivers)…..on a visiting field……and actually believing that they had a chance to win. Uh oh…….bad point…….they almost did just that!!
I get a kick at how SJF is just making a bunch of @#$% up, without any belief or conviction, and how the Mount Youngstown State Union fans are taking the bait. Mount……..you make someone like SJF Fan go away by ignoring him….not by acknowledging him!! Yes, you will win yet another Stagg and will bring another gazillion kids into the program next year so you can be 10 deep at each position and the relatively few programs that genuinely care about even remotely attempting to achieve that level of success……..you are the standard!!
piperarcher - and I quote, “wouldn’t you love to see how “real” Hawaii is in a playoff”? Let’s see………each player saving their parents about $150K (considerably more with interest on loans) by getting a D1 scholarship…….a “heaven on earth location”…….and some of the most beautiful women in the world (sounds just a tad bit better than the typical D3 setting in the midwest and northeast, especially Dec - March!!)…….Hawaii sound “real” awesome to me right about now!!
November 27th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
# dlippiel Says:
November 27th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
Is SJF d3knowitall in disguise?
———-
Nope - SJF Fan is my only ID - d3knowitall is not me. . . . now, whether or not I THINK I know it all in D3 football is another matter . . . (of course, the answer is yes!)
November 27th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
dukefinadv Says:
November 27th, 2007 at 6:56 pm: I get a kick at how SJF is just making a bunch of @#$% up, without any belief or conviction
——————
What specifically have I made up?
You don’t see any conviction behind what I’m saying? ? ?
Another example of why hedge funds have the largest collection of over rated brains in one industry in the U.S.
November 27th, 2007 at 7:06 pm
Ric Says:
November 27th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
SJF Fan I just dont’ think comparing the East as a general statement to the OAC . . . . . . is illogical,
——
Ric - I see your point - One: a conference vs. region, two, every conference has some teams that are at different levels on any given year, and in the playoffs, they are only going to be squaring off vs. the teams that are in the upper part of the conference. you are correct.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:11 pm
Yup. Mt. Union is beatable…Ask the last team that beat them in the playoffs in Alliance…UMHB! As crazy as the Pro’s and D1 has been this year with “sure” winners, I’ll be the first to predict a new D3 champion for 2007. UWW? UMHB? Wesley? SJF? If you aren’t an excited fan about the 4 matchups this weekend, then you need to spend some time reading the BCS articles….D3 football is the best.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:14 pm
SJF Fan - MUCnash is the one who questioned your having to stick to a position/prediction. You have not put a score out here as of yet. As far as the hedge fund comment…..please don’t go there for you are even further out of your league in this arena (the minimum investmnet for my services starts at $2.5 million) than SJF will be against Mount Union. Care to make a “hedge fund type” wager on it? My clients are up (in aggregate) 32.7% YTD……..long oil, titanium, wheat, euro, loonie……short US financials, homebuilders and the dollar. I’d bet that return is beating your 401K return by quite the margin?! SJF…..you’re going to make the East look bad (football-wise……..not where it really matters, academically) if SJF gets rolled…..and I’m an East Coast snob so lay low, shhhhhhhhh and cross your fingers!!
November 27th, 2007 at 8:27 pm
Anyone who posts on a football site with “duke” in the name should be banished. Can’t believe they lost to ND!!!! I’d be interested in seeing some predictions!
November 27th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
Wow, holly Napoleon complex Duke.
First: In case your reading comprehension is rusty from a prior question posed - play to win. Does not matter how by how much or how little, win period. No moral victories allowed. SJF will win or they won’t - I think they will. Not sure it can be spelled out any clearer -
Second: Yes, MUC did question and he was answered and acknowledged that answer, and you clearly failed to answer when caught in a lie: so the question still stands - what did I make up? and how is it that I don’t have conviction?
Third: As to the hedgies, two five is pocket change found in the cushions in a sofa somewhere in CT. As it relates to your performance, your segment is unregulated and claims are rarely backed up so - essentially, I’m saying your full of it unless you can prove otherwise. So shut up, and get back to answering the phones for your boss.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:21 pm
I have been reading the posts and keeping silent as usual, but I feel I must respond to the repeated comments on the MUC vs. Ithaca game and how the IC offense moved the ball at will, but for an interception in the endzone, could have been different, etc. I have not yet heard anyone mention the fact that MUC held the ball for the last 7 minutes of the game and took a knee at IC 5 yard line as the last minute ticked off the clock, after marching the ball all the way down the field uncontested. So those of you who are determined to talk about “what if’s” don’t forget to add another 7 pts to the MUC total.
I was at the game people and bottom line is that IC played well but was still completely overmatched. MUC won the game in a decisive fashion, period.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:31 pm
Can MUC be beaten? Of course. If a team scores more points than Mount they will most likely win the game.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:38 pm
MUC93 - I don’t recall anyone saying the result would have been different - if not for the INT’s in the endzone - it was mentioned as further evidence in regards to IC being able to move the ball on the vaunted MUC D. You’re projecting (a common affliction amongst the supporters of MUC football I might add) on that.
If you feel so miffed by the assertions you may wish to go to Post Patterns on the OAC board and consult with the several dozen that are MUC supporters and were at the game and posted the comments to begin with. I simply saw the tape, and concurred with their own quotes.
As far as winning decisively, yes, three TDs plus is a pretty large margin of victory.
——
November 27th, 2007 at 9:41 pm
Now that you guys got me started ranting I can’t stop.
Last I checked, interceptions in the red zone were part of the game, and something that a good defense does. They also tend to happen on occasion when a team is COMPLETELY UNABLE TO RUN THE BALL (like IC was against MUC defense).
Did IC throw the ball well? Yes, and props to them. But how many of you have seen a team win when they gained a total of 13 yds on the ground? I don’t know the answer but I’m guessing it is pretty rare.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:46 pm
BaylorFan - I went to a school with a significantly higher average SAT score than Duke…….so please don’t offend me!!
SJF Fan - There have been more than enough people on this board (not including me) who have busted your chops and have made comments like “there’s one of these guys on the board this time every year” when talking about you. You’re full of bravado and have predicted an outright victory………and have knocked the OAC teams in the process (without reason). As far as my “claims”, my clients satisfaction is all that matters (I’m not in it for the money…….yea, right:). If you’re a good boy (and if SJF is wins as you assure all of us), I’ll consider letting you use my home in Fort Lauderdale for a vacation week to escape the upcoming beauty that is the five month long Rochester winter!! I’ll also let my friends, Lawrence Golub and Karen Finerman know that $2.5 million is pocket change in a sofa in CT (you can have Stamford……give me Manhattan!!!)…..at 2.0% per annum + 17.5% of profits, we’ve been laughing all the way to the bank, along with our clients for years. How much of the VMWare IPO did you get big boy?! I answer the phones all day for my bosses (not boss)………my clients. Now, you go back and stop breaking The Fisher Creed, specifically, the one about respect. Dr. Bain would be very disappointed with you!! SHORT THE DOLLAR WITH THE IMPENDING FED RATE CUT ON DECEMBER 4……..but I’m sure that you’ve been doing that all along!!
November 27th, 2007 at 9:46 pm
R24aider Says:
November 27th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
“BiasD3FootballFan,
To be honest the Mount Fans are tired of seeing UWW. It’s the same old story, UWW blows everybody out in the self proclaimed “world’s toughest conf.” Then meets Mount only to lose. Blaa, Blaa, Blaa.”
Mt. Union has a fabulous football team. However, as good as your team is R24aider, your arrogance exceeds it. As much as you believe the Raiders success entitles you to be arrogant, the NCAA still does not allow you to actually CHOOSE your opponent in the Stagg Bowl. Personally, I hope it is UWW and firmly believe they will “destroy” MUC by 7. I don’t know much about most of the other teams, but I do believe UMHB also could beat mighty MUC any given Saturday. I watched the last two Stagg Bowls. MUC is very good. They are far from unbeatable.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:46 pm
Finally, the team that has put up the most fight against MUC the last two years in the playoffs was not UWW or SJF, but CAPITAL (of the OAC).
November 27th, 2007 at 9:59 pm
MUC93 - Capital - 3pts last year right?
Duke - I can only hope your some dopey intern, if you go back and re-read what you just posted, its pretty beneath the industry and you’ll be regretting it in the future. Further, only the sheep and the mass ham and egg public are shorting the dollar on the rate cut now of all times - it’s already in the cake . . what’s your next words of wisdom, buy the Euro now too??? - - its yesterday’s bull market. Be a man, use the brain you claim to have and think differently than what was reported on CNBC - go long on USD with a tight stop - prep for the squeeze, Wheat, Sugar, and Corn.
And yes, I accept your apology.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:01 pm
SJF- there were actually several earlier posts that stated how the “score should have been closer” but for the red zone interception. I admit I don’t remember if it was you. I think you will agree with my point that taking a knee in the opponents red zone also could potentially alter the final score.
For the record, I don’t think you are the entity formerly known as D3knowitall. You actually say some rational things (I’m glad you agree that 3+ TD’s is a decisive margin of victory, for example). I dont recall the other guy ever saying anything remotely rational.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:03 pm
Um, I don’t know if we’re reading the same threads or you’re just fishing for some bulletin board material, but as far as I can tell, no one thinks Fisher will get skunked.
We just think it’s highly unlikely they will win. Because it is.
Seems like you’re the one that refuses to look at all the possibilities.
Not interested in a confrontation, just sayin’ …
VERY good question.
Pipearcher and Teamski, both good posts at 9:58 this morning. Good insight.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
SJF Fan, again, I don’t know what made you think there were two interceptions in the endzone, there were not. Go back and look at the stats of the game.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:08 pm
I asked (MUC All-American DE) Justen Stickley face-to-face after the Stagg Bowl who they toughest/best team they played was and he said … drum roll please … Whitewater. Hands down.
FWIW.
I tried a quick Google but didn’t see it, but if I wrote it somewhere and I find it, I will post it.
By the way, if that guy isn’t taking down Wall Street or whatever, he can work with us anytime. Stickley was sharp.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:10 pm
Keith if by no one you mean you - fine, I will opt to believe you. The other MUCers seem to think otherwise though.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:22 pm
Actually, they’re usually fine and among our smartest, most respectful fans. You’ll have to pardon them if they’ve seen this before. This happens every year, some team that’s hot within its conference or its region gets a few jaw-jackers yapping on the board and then their team gets pummeled 70-30 or 66-0 or 35-14.
Again, as you all know, I have no connection to Mount Union and haven’t been the hugest Purple Raiders supporter over the years, I’m just speaking the truth. Ignore me if you will …
Mount Union is not unbeatable, but I hope (and am fairly confident) the players aren’t as blase about facing Mount Union as some of the posters are. It’s going to take your team’s best effort by far.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:25 pm
Yeah, I am reading in order, and at the time of the post I responded to, it was looking pretty tame. Not as much … but then again, you guys do come on here asking for it
November 27th, 2007 at 10:27 pm
“. . .Everyone there in Alliance . . . ”
I think most people ignored that comment because it was way off base -
At last year’s Semi’s the folks from Alliance (at least in the parking lot before and after the game) were fairly welcoming and good sports.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:46 pm
Re: ignored … sorry, sometimes I skim and respond to weirdest stuff first. I don’t always have my “ignore that” filter on.
Yes, re: UWW … haven’t seen them this year either, but “are they better than last year?” has been a frequent topic of discussion since I had them No. 5 in my rankings in June, behind UMHB, Wesley and Fisher. … the theory then was so much turmoil for UWW and a lot of key losses but a lot back, they would maybe lose a regular season game and take a while to hit their stride … that’s basically played out to form, although I’m not sure I thought the game would be St. Cloud State, so I’m not patting myself on the back too hard.
I do have some insight on UWW and we do have a feature going up probably tomorrow a.m. that seeks to answer those questions (I know because I asked the writer the questions) with regard to their defense, anyway.
November 27th, 2007 at 11:12 pm
MUC smashing UWW is a bit of an exaggeration, but they did prove to be the better overall team-all things considered. As I recall, in the first Stagg, UWW made a dramatic comeback, perhaps the result of “first time” jitters. Last year, although the score was lopsided, was anything but a MUC blowout. I give MUC credit for punt blocks and solid play at QB and receiver, but MUC had nothing to do with the UW QB fumbling the ball without contact, center exchange or missed throws to wide open receivers when passing lanes were clear. I am not saying UWW beats them this year if they (UWW) gets the chance, but in now way do I think MUC is beyond beatable by the Warhawks. UWW has to figure out how to match the mental aspect that MUC brings, the talent is there already.
November 27th, 2007 at 11:32 pm
I didn’t see a response to Baylorfan’s post at 8:11pm from any Mount Union fans. I really would like to know what you guys think. Would you like to see a UMHB/Mount Union rematch? I wouldnt mind seeing it again. I had to sit in my dorm last time and listen to it on the radio, maybe if it happens I will get to actually watch it.
November 28th, 2007 at 12:06 am
Also, I would like to point out that UMHB is the only school in Division III that has both Football and Men’s Basketball ranked in the top 10 in the nation at the moment. (Football #4, Men’s Basketball #9)
November 28th, 2007 at 1:39 am
As far as the schedule, off the top, I can’t say it was the most ambitious, but with the WIAC being a balanced league and our No. 1, then adding a D2 team and a D3 top 5 in Mary Hardin-Baylor in non-conference, yeah, you’d be hard-pressed to find a team who played a better slate.
November 28th, 2007 at 1:51 am
I’m a simpleton so I love jokes like this.
In all seriousness, there have been years when Mount Union looked beatable by other elite teams. If you go back to the 03 and 04 teams that lost, they were good Mount Union teams, but did not have the talent at certain positions, or were playing with a rotation, that they have now.
This is basically last year’s team without the stud DEs and with Micheli taking all the snaps at QB. Some other changes, I think they lost two OL, but in a program that size … well anyway, they have replaced everyone and their good players you’d think have gotten a year better.
So not trying to be a naysayer or dream-squasher, I’m just saying what reason to we have to believe that they won’t win again?
They are healthy.
Kehres does not let them lose focus or believe there’s an opponent that can’t beat them if they have a bad day.
I believe in Any Given Saturday as much as anyone, but for a superior team to lose it must be outplayed.
So that’s basically what you have to do, have your best game and make MUC make some mistakes.
It can happen. I doubt it, but won’t rule it out completely.
If it ends up being UWW and MUC again, I guess the new twist is that Leipold and Zebrowski will scheme up something they haven’t seen before, that Jones isn’t Jacobs, etc., etc.
I usually buy into the idea that every Stagg Bowl is going to be a great matchup (and they often are), so I’m hook, line and sinker on whatever is cooked up.
November 28th, 2007 at 7:30 am
D3Keith
I really love this, there is almost a full week of comments about the Fisher MUC game and really, no one gives Fisher an even chance except SJF Fan. The other key issue in regards to these comments is that those who make them really, really don’t know a darn thing about the St. John Fisher squad other than they have won a few games.
Well, I am glad you folks are gloating in your ignorance. I am sure it is just what we Fisher Fans are enjoying about these comments. As I see it, there is little respect shown for what Fisher has accomplished to date with any of these comments. I am sure those who keep yelling that there is no respect for MUC will get the same wake up call that occurred last year, this Saturday. Just keep looking beyond this game!
Assuming Fisher wins on Saturday, which most of you believe hell would also freeze over, will you then start you doing your job and get the facts right.
No matter what happens Saturday, it will be the game of the week.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:23 am
bleedpurple,
I think you and your team(s) better worry about the opponants this week and next. Climbing the Mount should be the last thing on your mind right now. This is silly! We Mount fans can say just about anything about our team and coach because our team has the credentials to back it up. How many National Championships does your team have? How many consecutive conferance championships does your team have? How many times did your team break the consecutive win record? I could go on and on. I think you should be addressing the Wabash fans and stop worrying about something as “Mountumental” as beating the Purple Raiders.
November 28th, 2007 at 9:21 am
pat and keith:
I do not where else to post this so I will post it here. GREAT article by Jason Bowen on the Wesley running backs. I go to almost every practice and I have seen the four backs up close and personal. The article caught their relationship exactly. Four fine young men. Alfa Kroma is one of Wesley’s captains as well and has handled the whole situation like a true captain. I am honored that coach Drass has allowed me on the field during practice and proud the Alfa and the others refer to me as just “Doc!” Good luck to them this Saturday. No matter the outcome they will still be four great young men!
November 28th, 2007 at 9:38 am
I highly dought our fans or players are looking past sjf.They never do any team, thats why they are always prepared.
November 28th, 2007 at 10:37 am
wjbtms,
“Assuming Fisher wins on Saturday, which most of you believe hell would also freeze over, will you then start you doing your job and get the facts right.(sic)”
I have “no dog in this hunt”, but there has been no mis-attribution or mis-characterization of the facts by MUC fans.
For the continued success that MUC has had for over a decade, they have remained one of the most humble group of fans that I have seen in watching sports since the early 1960’s.
I really don’t think that the MUC game will be the game of the week considering the uncertainty surrounding the outcomes of Wesley-UMHB and Central-Bethel. The real upset this week will be Wabash over UWW.
If the expectation of the SJF-MUC game has been lowered, then perhaps anything less than a “monkey-stomp” will be considered a moral victory. If SJF prevails, then I think that the remaining three teams in the playoff instantly see their chances of winning the Stagg improve immensely. SJF caught MUC on that 1-in-20 bad day that they have. (That is p = .05 for you probability fans and qualifies as being statistically significant
)
Travel safely, all.
November 28th, 2007 at 11:54 am
deuces,
re: I am neither a MUC follower or a SJF follower, but from my view, I see SJF prevailing in this matchup:
Mount Union 31
St. John Fisher 42
I have no problem with fans predicting that their team will win. As a matter of fact, i think all fans should have the belief that their team can win any game they are in. However, to predict that SJF will score 41 points is pretty gutsy. No one in the past two years has scored more than 18 (Ithaca). If Mount is to lose this game, I would guess the score will be in the 20’s. If SJF lets Mount score 31 as you predict, I doubt they will be going home happy. SJF played a very good game last year, and scored 14. If they play a great game this year, 21, maybe 24. Either way, i doubt that it will be enough to win.
November 28th, 2007 at 1:05 pm
Mainjack - until the game is played - you’re opinion is worth just as much as “deuces”.
It is laughable that the MUC’ers think life is such a given and that certain things are impossible to do -
we’ll all find out for sure Saturday afternoon..
November 28th, 2007 at 1:34 pm
we’ll all find out for sure Saturday afternoon.. We sure will SJF Fan…we sure will *S* GO RAIDERS!
November 28th, 2007 at 3:38 pm
can somebody KICK SJF FAN OFF THE BLOG? Everything he says is irrational and could be giving a lot of people the wrong impression of Fisher fans. I can appreciate his strong belief Fisher will win, but it just seems like he is trying to instigate and I can’t stand it. And I’m not saying this just as protection if we were to be blown out on Saturday, I would still maintain this even if we were to win.
Like I said before about the upcoming game. By all accounts Mount Union is better this year than last year and by my own personal account having seen about 10 games last year and 7 so far this year….Last year’s Fisher team was flat out better offensively, defensively this year’s team seems to be performing really well as of late but if Stepnick is not performing to his full potential our defense will be suffering dramatically because he changes everything we do on defense. I believe Fisher is a very good team this year, just not historically good like that version of Mount Union appears to be. If we play to what we are capable of (Kramer not over and under throwing all his receivers like he has done with increased frequency this year, Stepnick being able to play at full strength) no doubt we can hang with them and the chance of an upset could be there.
November 28th, 2007 at 3:45 pm
The only reason SJF Fan is here is because everyone keeps responding to his posts. Ignore D3knowitall, I mean SJF FAN, and he will go away.
November 28th, 2007 at 4:04 pm
Everything I have said is irrational? That’s bull - What specifically has been irrational that was not said in obvious jest???
Further, on SJF - on your OPINION that they are not as good as on off. as last year, the numbers don’t really back that up as they are avg. more points per game this season than they were last season. Given that we lost one of the best backs in D3 - I think that would suggest that we must have a monster o-line - would it not? or is that irrational as well???
Who are you to judge if someone’s opinions have anymore merit than yours???
November 28th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
dlippiel Says: November 28th, 2007 at 3:45 pm
The only reason SJF Fan is here is because everyone keeps responding to his posts.
—————–
Not true - I’m here because I love the SJF program, and D3 in general. And this is a place where we are free to present how we feel and what we think. If you and your bruh booby never posted or replied to me ever again in my life, I’d still be here sharing my thoughts and what I believe . .
I believe that SJF can do, what apparently few others except the players themselves believe they can do - - win in Alliance.
November 28th, 2007 at 4:20 pm
ra24aider,
Now you not only want to choose your Stagg Bowl opponent, but you want to control the comments of other teams fans:
“I think you and your team(s) better worry about the opponants this week and next. Climbing the Mount should be the last thing on your mind right now. This is silly! We Mount fans can say just about anything about our team and coach because our team has the credentials to back it up.”
UWW may make it to the Stagg Bowl. They may not. I’m not assuming anything. Mount may make it to the Stagg Bowl, they may not. I am not disrespecting the entire field or their fans the way you are. My previous post simply pointed out that Mount is beatable and that you (not Mount Union, not other Mount Union fans, YOU) are arrogant. I hate to be the one to break it to you, (actually, I kind of like being the one to break it to you, but that sounds ..um..arrogant) but Mount Union’s prowess as a football team does not actually give you a greater freedom of speech than the rest of us enjoy. I can say it: Mount Union sucks! In fact, I may even get it printed up on a tee shirt and sell it to whoever gets the pleasure of playing you next. (Any SJF fans want to place an express order?) For all we know, Mount’s next game after Saturday may be next year! Oh that’s right, I should be addressing the Wabash fans this week. Wabash fans, dress warm (weather turned pretty cold), have a safe drive to Whitewater, and let’s enjoy a great D3 football game. Sorry, R24aider, haven’t seen any arrogance to respond to from those folks.
For those of you who think I’ve completely lost my mind, I’m aware that the Mount Union football team does not suck. But do you have any idea how fun it was to type that and say it out loud? i may have to make it the tagline in all my emails! Go ahead and try it, it’s fun!!
November 28th, 2007 at 4:26 pm
boobyhasgameyo Says:
November 28th, 2007 at 3:38 pm// . . . and could be giving a lot of people the wrong impression of Fisher fans.. .
————————-
Booby you are insulting the intelligence level of everyone else on the boards with that statement. My name is Fan not Fans - meaning singular. Everyone I have had some dialogue with gets that.
————————
Also, blogs, posting comments sites etc. is a place to express opinions, middle of roaders (unless you are the moderator) is a place where no respect is earned. Take a stand. Do you think SJF can win or not? Have the guts to say so without the apologist, UN-like, hedging statements.
Either you’re in or out.
November 28th, 2007 at 4:36 pm
BiasD3FootballFan I just love it when someone just as yourself says well if the blocked punt didn’t happen the game would have been a lot closer. Have you stopped to think for a second that Whitewater had a big kickoff return? If you’re going to eliminate the block lets scratch that as well. Now Whitewater doesn’t score a touchdown since that resulted in their only TD drive, two plays, four yards. I don’t think Mount Union killed you guys but the argument like yours is just silly.
November 28th, 2007 at 5:26 pm
Ralph Turner
Please understand, I have read the statistics about MUC for the last five years and how many games they have won. I can’t argue with history, it is what it is. Do I think they are a good team, yes.
I went to the game last year in Alliance and had a great time even though we lost. The people/fans there were great.
My problem with the noise on this blog is that almost everyone speaking about the MUC - SJF game are pretty much assuming Fisher is exactly the same team as last year while MUC has gotten so much better. I believe both assumptions are a bit naive.
Now your last statement, lets break it down a bit. You believe Fisher will probably get stomped. Because Mount Union is so great. But if Fisher beats Mount Union, then immediately the other teams now would have an improved opportunity to get to the Stag Bowl.
My take on a win by Fisher would be they are better than Mount Union (this year) and the other teams remaining may have less chance to get to the Stag Bowl. So far, everything I have read pretty much puts Mount Union as basically unbeatable. So a Fisher win should put them in the same category for the playoffs. I believe this is to the tune of “You can’t have your cake and eat it too”.
So Ralph which is it?
November 28th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
Ric-
I was trying to make a similar point yesterday. Many bloggers seem to think that interceptions and blocked punts are not part of the game, conveniently forgetting the breaks their team gets.
November 28th, 2007 at 5:39 pm
Good teams make their own breaks, like the MUC blocked punt, and the UWW kick return.
November 28th, 2007 at 6:13 pm
SJF Fan,
Do I think Fisher can win? Yes
Do I think they will win? No
Is that clear enough?
Also, am I really insulting their intelligence by saying you are giving Fisher fans a bad name? You may only be one poster but you make rediculous comments that really stick in peoples’ minds and when they think of you they think of St. John Fisher and when they think about the fans of St. John Fisher I bet you and your dumb comments come to mind first.
November 28th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
MUC93 - good point and is so very much true - the reason why the good teams seem to have the “breaks” is because they were good enough to create them in the first place. I think you and Ric have it figured out.
————-
Boobs I’m placing you in the same category as the napoleon complex Duke guy. You projected some statements, and when called out on them, you couldn’t produce and instead just kept babbling and babbling and babbling. I feel sorry for people like you, never having the guts to go for a win in fear of failure. . .
————————
What is FAN short for again???
November 28th, 2007 at 7:07 pm
Ok Colin Cowherd clearly you are beyond reach. Have fun making statements that will surely come back to bite you.
November 28th, 2007 at 7:51 pm
SJF Fan, we’re gonna miss you after Saturday. Don’t go away mad, just go away….
I’m looking forward to an entertaining game. We’ll see soon enough who can bring what to this game. Ultimately we’ll see just where in the “Purple Pansy Conference” SJF would fit in… My guess is about third or fourth. Good Luck.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:06 pm
MUC VA - don’t worry about missing me this Saturday, I won’t be going away immediately. Regardless of the outcome, I promised a few of your brethren that I would be willing to compare our speculations post game - plus, our two schools will likely be seeing each other (and hearing from each other!) 4 times over the next two seasons.. . which is great BTW.
… on a side note, I want to correct something that may seem like a small detail, but hope you’ll appreciate as to why… you are misquoting an adjective I used in my initial description of OAC as it related to the whole PPC thing - if you have access to a Webster’s dictionary please look up the difference between the words Patsies (the term I actually used) vs. Pansy (the word you cited above claiming that I used) - as you’ll see from the definition, the one I used is not so insulting, the one you misquoted is not exactly PC in today’s day and age, and you probably owe Boobyhasgameyo an apology!
November 28th, 2007 at 8:08 pm
wjbtms,
I believe that MUC is more likely to have a “bad” game, or play a “beatable” game, than the likelihood that the team that beats them can continue to play at that level in the next game or two.
UMHB almost did in 2004, in losing in the last minutes to Linfield. UWW tried very hard to knock off MUC in the Staggs. ONU could not sustain that level of play in 2005. MUC has three losses in the Staggs, a regular season loss and a loss in the semis. Beating MUC in the Regionals has not been done in the last decade.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
Boobes by opting to call me a name instead of trying to back up your assertions you’re only further proving my point. You and Duke are cut from the cloth - sad, but I will always hold out hope you’ll find that inner strength some day.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:11 pm
its d 3 who cares
November 28th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
MUC VA,
So I’m assuming you don’t think Fisher is worthy of it’s #5 national ranking if you think they would finish 3rd or 4th in the OAC. I think they would be right in contention for the number 2 spot with Capital, I don’t see Ohio Northern or JCU as on Fisher’s level.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:15 pm
wjbtms Says:
November 28th, 2007 at 5:26 pm //… My problem with the noise on this blog is that almost everyone speaking about the MUC - SJF game are pretty much assuming Fisher is exactly the same team as last year while MUC has gotten so much better. I believe both assumptions are a bit naive…..I believe this is to the tune of “You can’t have your cake and eat it too”.
————————
Thank you wjbtms - I was feeling like I was standing alone.
November 28th, 2007 at 9:52 pm
I always find this blog entertaining. However, The noise on this blog about MUC is just that, noise. My son plays for MUC and tells me repeatedly all he hears when they they play other teams is pure smack. He said SJF players told them all game long last year how much better they were than MUC and that it was luck that they even beat them. He said the clock was winding down and SJF was giving it to them. He laughed and said look at the score.Those boys work hard and get their butts chewed by Kehres if they even attempt talking smack. They have a level of dedication and class that few have. That is why they win.
November 28th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
Ralph,
I really get a kick out of your viewpoint. The only way MUC will lose is when they have a bad day, it JUST COULDN’T BE that the other team was better. Well, in my book any time a team gets beat, the other team was better. Are you looking for an excuse if MUC gets beat, this Saturday or any of the next Saturdays?
I am starting to think MUC fans and the OAC fans has drunk too much of their own cool-aid.
November 28th, 2007 at 10:22 pm
My one and only post of the day (unlike SJF FAN who posted during his “lunch break” at 1:05pm and after the whistle blew signifying the end of his shift at 4:00pm!!). Despite the fact that I wasn’t on the board all day, numerous people still went back and forth with SJF Fan (that’s all he wants fellows, STOP placating him)…..which tells you that it’s a SJF Fan issue, not a “duke” issue and SJF Fan couldn’t help himself by bringing my name up in three separate posts.
You win SJF Fan/d3knowitall……….I promised not to enter the fray but, like all of the others, I can’t help myself. I started by wanting SJF to win, to carry the banner for the East (and I kind of liked their team when they came down to Doylestown and lost to sleepy little Delaware Valley College in the playoffs a couple of years ago)………….now, I find myself wanting Mount Union to win. The final score is inconsequential due to your guarantee of a Fisher victory. I’ll miss you after Saturday afternoon IF Fisher loses (but they won’t because you’ve said so), but I’m sure that we’ll hear from you come July or August, after the Rochester winter thaw, talking about how Fisher will beat Mount in Alliance next September!!
I’m going to tell Dr. Bain that you are in direct violation of The Fisher Creed….tsk…tsk…tsk!!
November 28th, 2007 at 10:30 pm
MUCDad - Touche!!! Same thing happened in Doylestown a couple of years ago in the playoffs……..and this from a Christian college who’s students live by a formal creed!!! I felt like I was in the 700 level of Veterans Stadium at an Eagles game hearing the potty-mouthed Fissures walk off the field…..St. John was turning over in his grave!!
Tell your son to have all of the players read SJF Fan’s posts…….especially the one’s about “patsies” and the OAC.
SJF Fan………KNEEL AT THE FOOT OF ZOD (MOUNT UNION)!!!!!!!
November 28th, 2007 at 11:10 pm
They are well aware of what SJF says. Many of the players read the DIII blogs as I am sure some of the SJF players do as well.
November 29th, 2007 at 4:49 am
For the record, everyone does not say that. Most of us who’ve seen games in the OAC, or at least outside the Empire 8 — which is a very good Division III conference in its own right — have a healthy respect for the OAC, especially the top half.
As a football conference, we’ve been pretty clear and consistent on where the OAC stands.
Do I really have to look up the conference ranking links again and post them? Maybe I should just give up on writing a column altogether
I think it’s fair to say MUC would win any D3 conference it is in.
I’ll take it one step further. Been thinking about tossing this one out there for a while.
I think Mount Union might make the playoffs in D2. Maybe not every year, maybe they’d be more like an 8-3 type. I bet there are some leagues in which they could grab the automatic bid.
I saw some of an Abilene Christian game this year, and it was pretty plain to see ACU is biggerfasterstronger than any D3 team I’ve seen. But Mount Union doesn’t really rely on physical dominance (although that of its O-Line could probably be linked to some of the high completion percentages and backs’ success) … They are a sharp, well-coached team that makes few mistakes, and makes great in-game adjustments and adjustments seeing a team a second time.
I don’t see why that wouldn’t carry over into a league where most teams might overpower Mount Union but still not outplay them, if that makes any sense.
I know that doesn’t have a ton to do with SJF-MUC, just thought I’d mention because both the parts quoted above reminded me of that thought.
November 29th, 2007 at 4:52 am
I appreciate you stepping up to the plate. Your posts are usually good and your point above is duly noted.
Believe it or not, your boy has already been removed from the blog once this postseason. I don’t do board enforcement, but my best guess as to what Pat would say is that as long as its within the terms of service — i.e. not obscene, etc. — we would usually let it go. Some posts never make it past moderation, and some don’t get caught automatically for moderation … but basically, we don’t ban people for being knuckleheads.
November 29th, 2007 at 4:57 am
Just for the record, smart guy, Ralph is from Texas and has no dog in this fight. He is, however, one of our most thoughtful and respectful posters. If you want to ignore the unbiased observers and plod along with your Cardinal-colored glasses on, be my guest, but please try to get a clue about who you’re insulting. The observers with no link to either team are few and far between, and given that their opinions tend to be rational and grounded, they are very much welcomed and appreciated.
November 29th, 2007 at 5:02 am
Back to Wesley-UMHB, was thinking of something.
Wesley’s usually got some pretty nice tailgating going on, but I rarely get to partake. Was thinking of arriving early enough this week to do so … to promote some goodwill between fans of D3 of course.
I propose Wesley fans invite anyone who’s making the trip up from Texas to their tailgate to enjoy a little pre-game. You all probably would anyway, just thought I’d mention where everyone can see. If you travel that far for a D3 game, you should be welcomed with open arms even if you throw down at noon.
Same deal for SJF fans travelling to Ohio, MUC peeps, hook them up. Although in my experience, MUC Game Day is less of a tailgate and more of a cafeteria brunch
November 29th, 2007 at 5:17 am
Oh? Do you think your boy SJF Fan broke down some John Carroll/Baldwin-Wallace tape before he called the entire OAC weak 47 times over the past two weeks?
Puh-leeze. 99% of you are blowing smoke when you start talking about a team other than the one you follow/play for every Saturday. You’re lucky the people in the know don’t have the time or interest to call you on all of your false assumptions. You know, stuff like:
Um, no. No it won’t be. Right now, I’d say the Game of the Week would be in Dover, since it’s the closest thing to a toss-up of the four. But you know, what happens is kind of important in determining which game was the Game of the Week.
So what is it that you’re showing for what Mount Union has accomplished to date?
And what is it you’re doing with your ignorance?
Please don’t put my name and ignorance about D3 football in the same post. There isn’t enough time between now and kickoff on Saturday for me to school you.
November 29th, 2007 at 5:22 am
Good morning wjbtms,
I think that you missed the precision with which I tried to describe games versus MUC. As I look at the mtunionfootball.com web site, I think that the only “bad” game that MUC fans would say the team has had in the last decade has been the 2005 ONU game.
Over the last decade there have been some “beatable” MUC performances, only a few of which have resulted in losses. The game that I mentioned, the 2004 UMHB Semis,
http://www.mtunionfootball.com/2004season/04maryhardinbaylor.htm
was an outstanding performance on a day that MUC was “beatable”. If one looks at the stats, UMHB just played smash-mouth football in the fourth quarter. Look at those drives after the blocked UMHB punt for the MUC TD to go up 35-21. The CRU scored 17 unanswered points in the snow flurries in Alliance in the fourth quarter to win 38-35. The game was relatively mistake free; one INT each, one fumble lost each and only three penalties each.
UMHB did not maintain that same level of execution against Linfield in the Stagg. They gave up lots of passing yardage in the first quarter, shut Elliott down for most of the remainder of the game and then could not execute to get the win in the Stagg.
I see this as the most likely scenario by which SJF wins out. They catch MUC on a “beatable” day, and then sustain that level of play on the road the next week. (When was the last time that SJF flew to a football game?) They either catch UMHB at home or fly again for the Semis. Then, they fly to Salem for the Stagg. Along the way, they do not have another game like they played at Hartwick. By my analysis, MUC has a game like Hartwick about once a decade. SJF, more frequently.
Good luck and travel safely!
November 29th, 2007 at 5:29 am
My bad…only the plane flight in the Semis if they catch Central. They will then fly to the Stagg. (UMHB will not go to Pittsford this year).
November 29th, 2007 at 7:27 am
d3keith, thanks for the mention about the tailgating, i put out an invite to all the umhb fans earlier in the week on their board. we have hooked up with stone station the last 2 weeks and plan to do so again this week. we are planning to be there around 915 so stop by if you can. so if you are from umhb and plan on being in dover, stop by the tailgate area, directly across from the field and join us in pregame banter and post game relaxation.
November 29th, 2007 at 8:45 am
Boobs, do I think SJF is worthy of #5? Sure - no issue whatsoever. All I am saying is we’ll see where they would rate in the OAC after this weekend. They might be #1!
SJF Fan - I didn’t realize calling someone a “purple pansy” was a PC issue, considering thats what the flower looks like… regardless, my mis-read but the point still stands - Patsy or Pansy.
November 29th, 2007 at 8:58 am
My apologies for the earlier “its D3 who cares” comment. That would be my son trying to be funny. I have to remember to sign out when I leave the room.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:07 am
Keith - On the OAC thing. I already mentioned it - but obviously due to the numbers I can see why it would get glossed over or forgotten.
How I formed my opinion came from: reading comments from mainly MUC supporters and a few others on the OAC boards on Post Patterns, coupled with available stats from this site. And from that, I don’t think it is a crime to wonder, at least aloud anyway, if a conference is having an off year (as in 2007 only).
I have no idea about prior seasons - maybe it was by far the strongest in the past I don’t know. And, unfortunately there is no real, factual way to assess, except maybe from the small glimpse we get in the playoffs.
I do not think that diminishes in any way what MUC has accomplished in the past, or may have yet to accomplish in the future.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:14 am
dukefinadv Says:
November 28th, 2007 at 10:22 pm // . . . due to your guarantee of a Fisher victory.. .
————-
I think you missed your calling - you should work for the Times given your flare. Letting people know who you are in the tank for is not a guarantee.
Do I think Fisher can and will win - yes. Not a guarantee. I know the team that typically wins controls the LOS, and we have a very, very strong O-Line so I very much like our chances in Alliance.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:21 am
D3Keith ,
Just a side bar, One of my best friends, former teamate is a coach at muc. I finally got a chance just to ask him ” do you think Mount could beat NAIA DII Walsh college? He looked me square in the face and said ” they would kill us!”
Mount players are a humble group of kids. From the time they are freshman they just want to someday play Varsity and “Maybe” win a ring. The coach for TCNJ summed it up, when he said every team in the county should experience playing Mount (not exact quote). What people don’t understand is the enormous amout of pressure the team and coaches have to endure winning all of the time. Think about it, in the eyes of the world a one loss Mount team is an unsuccessful team! Watch the hoopla on this site when Mount finally does lose.
Everybody involved with DIII, fans or players should be very thankful to be able to witness and be part of this journey Coach Kehres and the rest of the staff and players have taken us on. All are welcome along for the ride. Someday this ride will end and Mount will come back to be with the mortals (I hope not in my life time) So let’s enjoy the ride. Good luck to the remaining teams and all of their fans.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:22 am
Ok, given how emotionally charged everyone seems to get when I pose a question or thought - I’m signing off and won’t be coming back until Sat. evening or Sunday to compare my opinions vs. the reality (as promised) and then that’ll be that.
Hope it is a great game and that everyone stays healthy and injury free.
My prediction is a Fisher win.
Good luck to MUC players.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:36 am
Travel safely, SJF Fan!
November 29th, 2007 at 9:59 am
I dont know about that comment about walsh killing mount. That just doesnt sound right, but thats another topic for another day.
November 29th, 2007 at 1:07 pm
SJF Fan-
Look forward to your return this weekend- you have some valid points and a big thanks for putting Duke in his place- that guy is annoying.
Central wins
UWW loses
UMHB wins
Mt wins
November 29th, 2007 at 2:08 pm
Malone or Walsh beating Mount this season..ummm…no.
November 29th, 2007 at 5:01 pm
yellow_jacket…