No Lo Mo for Bucky -- maybe The Amalgamated?

It was the longest of shots but now it's official.

Ranking the Big Ten Programs 2000-2005

						Bowl Appearances
	Overall	Big Ten	Big Ten Champs	National Champs	Bowls	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005
1. Ohio State	57-17	35-13	2002, 2005	2002	6	Outback	Outback	Fiesta	Fiesta	Alamo	Fiesta
2. Michigan	53-21	37-11	2000, 2003, 2004	X	6	Citrus	Citrus	Outback	Rose	Rose	Alamo
3. Iowa	48-25	32-16	2002, 2004	X	5	X	Alamo	Orange	Outback	Capitol One	Outback
4. Purdue	42-31	27-21	2000	X	5	Rose	Sun	Sun	Capitol One	Sun	X
5. Wisconsin	47-29	24-24	X	X	5	Sun	X	Alamo	Music City	Outback	Capitol One
6. Minnesota	42-30	21-27	X	X	5	MicronPC	X	Music City	Sun	Music City	Music City
7. Penn State	36-34	23-25	2005	X	2	X	X	Capitol One	X	X	Orange
8. Northwestern	34-37	23-25	2000	X	3	Alamo	X	X	Motor City	X	Sun
9. Michigan St.	34-37	18-30	X	X	2	X	Silicon Valley	X	Alamo	X	X
10. Illinois	26-43	14-34	2001	X	1	X	Sugar	X	X	X	X
11. Indiana	20-48	10-38	X	X	0	X	X	X	X	X	X

BT Bowl Standings

Golden Goblins Win!

GG 298
HS 276
BG 272
FF 000


BG -- 272

QB1 Brett Basanez 27
QB2 Troy Smith 29
QB3 Michael Robinson 16
QB4 Drew Tate 27
RB1 Mike Hart -- 10
RB2 Lawrenece Maroney 12
RB3 Tyrell Sutton 15
RB4 Brian Calhoun 28
RB5 Tony Hunt 0
WR1 Jason Avant -- 7
WR2 Deon Butler 2
WR3 Brandon Williams 26
WR4 Santonio Holmes 18
WR5 Ed Hinkel 20
WR6 Shawn Herbert 12
K1 Garrett Rivas -- 4
K2 Taylor Melhoff 6
K3 Josh Huston 12

HS -- 258

QB-Michael Robinson 16
QB-Brett Basanez 27
QB-Drew Tate 27
QB-Troy Smith 29
RB-Laurence Maroney 12
RB-Gary Russell 9
RB-Brian Calhoun 28
RB-Tyrell Sutton 15
RB-Albert Young 4
WR-Ed Hinkel 20
WR-Santonio Holmes 18
WR-Shaun Herbert 12
WR-Jason Avant -- 7
WR-Brandon Williams 26
WR-Deon Butler 2
K-Josh Huston 12
K-Joel Howells 4
K-Joel Monroe 8

GG --298

BB Troy Smith 29
QB Brett Basanez 27
QB Drew Tate 27
QB Stocco 21
RB Ty Sutton 15
RB Lo Mo 12
RB Ant Pittman 20
RB “Brandon” Calhoun 28
RB Al Young 4
WR Santonio Holmes 18
WR Jason Avant -- 7
WR “Brian” Williams 26
WR Clinton Soloman 15
WR Shawn Herbert 12
WR Mark Philmore 12
K Huston 12
K Schlicker 9
K Rivas – 4

FF -- Absolute 0

Players in RED picked by all three participants.

Players in GREEN picked exclusively by that player.

Farmer Nation Holds its Breath ...

Buckeye junior WR drops a few clues to draft decision… College underclassmen on the bubble still have three weeks to make up their minds as to whether to apply for entry to the 2006 draft, but Ohio State junior Santonio Holmes, who is reportedly exploring his options, says he wants to be drafted near the top of the first round and has indicated that he might stay I school if he isn’t going to be selected until the latter part of the first round. Holmes does have a chance to be the first WR selected this year if he does enter the draft, but in a weak yaer at the position could indeed last past the 20th pick. Holmes is one of at least three Ohio State juniors – the others are CB Ashton Youboty and safety Donte Whitner – to have asked the NFL’s special advisory panel what are their respective draft prospects. As with most other top underclassmen considering entering this year’s draft, the three Buckeye juniors won’t make a formal announcement about their intentions until after Ohio State’s Fiesta Bowl date with Notre Dame.

Big Ten Bowl Fantasy Football

Anyone interested?

Pick a team of Big Ten players from the Big Ten teams in Bowls (Michigan, Minnesota, Northwestern, Iowa, Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Penn State) consisting of 4 QB, 5 RB, 6 WR, 3 K.

Same scoring as the regular league, high score wins.

Post your roster here before the start of the Alamo Bowl, December 28, 7:00 PM.

Ranking the Big Ten Coaches 2005

Stealing this idea from a post at CFN but

Top Tier -- These guys actually did a good job:
1 Barry Alvarez -- team expected to be bad 3rd in BT
2 Joe Paterno -- Left for dead, Patreno could be in NC game
3 Randy Walker -- Any time NW is above .500 the coach has done a lot right
---------------------------------------------------------
Middle Tier -- Ehh, not great, not terrible:
4 Kirk Ferentz -- An inconsistent season
5 Terry Hoeppner -- Team showed signs of life
6 Glen Mason -- Could have been better, could have been worse
7 Jim Tressell -- Not playing Troy Smith cost OSU big Texas win
8 Ron Zook -- Couldn't expect much more
---------------------------------------------------------
Bottom Feeders -- These teams should have done better:
9 Lloyd Carr -- Another joke season for a team that should be in the top 5 in the nation
10 John L Smith -- What an amazing collapse
11 Joe Tiller -- What an even more amazing collapse

BTFFL Annual Awards Ballot!

Here’s the BTFFL Awards ballot. I think we need to come up with College Football like names for the individual awards. Please follow this format and vote for a top 5 with your top choice first in this post. This will be the first season that the ballots will be made public! Candidates are awarded 5 points for a first place vote, 4 for a second place vote and so on. The winner will be compiled by someone when all the ballots are in.

League MVP (Nagurski Winner?)
1
2
3
4
5


Freshman of the Year
1
2
3
4
5

Outstanding QB
1
2
3
4
5

Outstanding RB (Hirsh Award?)
1
2
3
4
5

Outstanding WR
1
2
3
4
5

Outstanding Kicker
1
2
3
4
5

Comeback Player of the Year
1
2
3
4
5

Senior Most Likely to Break NFL Records
1
2
3
4
5

Senior that Displayed the Best Sportsmanship and Competitive spirit
1
2
3
4
5

Best Athletic Director (Please vote for one and do not vote for yourself)

1

Wednesday Predictions

Wisconsin 70
Hawai'i 63

Nine Months of ...

Hey Andy, it is a long nine months but here’s a start.

Print out the rosters

Cross out the Seniors.

Note the probable and possible keepers. You can do this in a variety of ways. One issue is what to do with the Juniors that might turn pro. Do you ignore a guy like Lawrence Maroney and assume another keeper or assume he is a keeper until he actually declares for the draft (I prefer the latter). Another issue has to do with some of the “potential” guys, say Morelli. He might be a keeper by the time we get to next season but he might not (remember Terrell Jordan last season?). I look at the teams and ask myself who would the owner keep if the cut down date was today? I mark those players and then I ask myself who else might be protected and mark those players.

I mark all Juniors that might turn pro to keep an eye on them.

You are now in position to begin obsessing about the 2006 season. Watch the news, recruiting, police blotter, academics, and injury reports. Make changes as required.

Season stays at #5 all time...but a Sun Bowl win would move it up.

1) 2003 10-3, 5-3, 4th, Win Sun Bowl v. Oregon 31-30
2) 1999 8-4, 5-3, 4th, Lose Sun Bowl v. Oregon
3) 2002 8-5, 3-5, 7th, Win Music City Bowl v. Arkansas
4) 2004 7-5, 3-5, 8th, Win Music City Bowl v. Alabama
5) 2005 7-4, 4-4, 7th, Lose Sun Bowl v. UCLA ...probably
6) 2000 6-6, 4-4, 5th, Lose Micronpc Bowl v. NC State
7) 1998 5-6, 2-6, 7th
8) 1993 4-7, 3-5, 8th
9) 2001 4-7, 2-6, 10th
10) 1996 4-7, 1-7, 9th
11) 1992 2-9, 2-6, 10th
12) 1995 3-8, 1-7, 10th
13) 1994 3-8, 1-7, 11th
14) 1997 3-9, 1-7, 9th
15) 1991 2-9, 1-7, 10th

Big Ten Power Rankings (The 5 Tiers)

1. Penn State 10-1 (7-1) BCS Bowl
2. Ohio State 9-2 (7-1) BCS Bowl
----------------------------
3. Michigan 7-4 (5-3) Outback Bowl v. Georgia
4. Iowa 7-4 (5-3) Alamo Bowl v. Oklahoma
5. Northwestern 7-4 (5-3) Music City Bowl v. South Carolina
6. Wisconsin 8-3 (5-3) Capitol One Bowl v. Alabama
----------------------------
7. Minnesota 7-4 (4-4) Sun Bowl v. UCLA
----------------------------
8. Purdue 5-6 (3-5)
9. Michigan State 5-6 (2-6)
----------------------------
10. Indiana 4-7 (1-7)
11. Illinois 2-9 (0-8)

Long post that no one will read #1

NORTHWEST

1. Oregon (10-1) PAC Ten
2. Boise State (8-3) WAC
3. California (7-4) PAC Ten
4. Oregon State (5-6) PAC Ten
5. Washington State (4-7) PAC Ten

6. Washington (2-9) PAC Ten

WEST
1. UTEP (8-2) C-USA
2. Colorado (7-3) Big XII
3. Missouri (6-5) Big XII
4. Colorado State (6-5) Mtn. West
5. Hawaii (4-6) WAC
6. Kansas State (5-6) Big XII

EAST
1. Penn State (10-1) Big Ten
2. West Virginia (8-1) Big East
3. Rutgers (6-4) Big East
4. Pittsburgh (5-5) Big East
5. Connecticut (4-5) Big East
6. Vanderbilt (5-6) SEC

MIDWEST
1. Iowa State (7-3) Big XII
2. Minnesota (7-4) Big Ten
3. Northwestern (7-4) Big Ten
4. Michigan State (5-6) Big Ten
5. Northern Illinois (6-4) MAC
6. Illinois (2-9) Big Ten

Goodgers Win Blue Ox Bowl and Set Scoring Record

The Goodgers win their 3rd consecutive Blue Ox Bowl Championship by setting the BTFFL scoring record with 159 points. Congrads to the Goodgers and coahc Wendelberger on finding a way to blow away the competition again!

Well, I guess that's it...it's over.

9 more months until college football....Dear GOD!

DON'T extend Mason's contract! This is not acceptable. How many times do we have to get blown out in the Big Ten and how many times do we have to collapse in the fourth quarter before people get upset? This is rediculous! Please Mason, go to K-State...please! And by K-State I mean Kent State because there's NO WAY Kansas State wants you!

THANKS ANDY!

Matt said this in an earlier post but I thought it should be at the top of the Blog for a while.

The BTFFL is a lot of fun and it was a ton of fun this year. Thanks for setting up and maintaining the web site and the blog for all of us.

Thanks

Pulling Out All the Stops

The not so typical Friday night Fighting Farmers Pillsbury pep rally really went off w/ a bang! Motley Crue performed for three straight sets lasting into the wee hours of the morning. The throng of Farmer's fans couldn't get enough of hard rock vibe or the crispy and light bisquits that were purchased at stands on the east side of DeKalb corn field with proceeds going towards the Three Presidential Term National Ballot Initiative Fund. Pillsbury reportedly sold over four thousand bisquits for a total of $6000! The US Army National Recruiting Corp tank test drives were a blast too. Coach Kennedy's wife was seen tooling around in M1A1 Abrams and nearly signed up for duty in Fort Knox herself. There were also hourly tug of war competitions and various endurance test given by beret clad soldiers. Tony Hillerman also stopped by to sign his fourth edition of Hunting Badger. With Farmer fans stoked for a victory, Coach Kennedy gave his starting line up to a roars of applause over the Singular microphone.

Blake Powers

Chad Henne

Gary Russell

Pierre Thomas

Santonio Holmes

Jason Avant

Steve Breaston

Kyle Schlicher

Go Farmers!!!

The Mason Squint

While Bucky's Goodgers researched every campus newspaper, blog, and rivals site across the Big Ten for timely news and pick ups, the Fighting Farmers coach/GM did nothing. That is nothing but the Mason squint. The look of huh? hung across the face of Coach Kennedy like a horses tail hangs over it's backside as he was "broadsided" week after week during the season. Somehow, Coach Kennedy failed to make any significant roster moves until the last week of the season. Was it sheer stupidity to sit and watch others make moves and deals, or just the blind arrogance of winning so many early games by wide margins? Either way, the complacency displayed by Coach Kennedy will likely cost him in the single most important game of the season, the Blue Ox Bowl.

Blue Ox Bowl Preview

Blue Ox Bowl III



Minnesota Fighting Farmers at Bucky’s Goodgers

These two teams battled for supremacy in the Big Ten Fantasy Football League all year long and the regular season did not determine much. The Goodgers won the Regular season title but the two teams were tied at 8-5. The Goodgers won the tiebreaker of points scored by just 21 points. The Farmers won the season series – 2 games to 1. But those victories came with Brian Calhoun – the highest scoring player in the BTFFL this season. The Farmers are going to have to find a way to win without him. The Farmers cut their entire team to get him and he led them to the Blue Ox Bowl but he can’t help them now.

For the Goodgers, they try and hold the Ox for another season.

Breaking down the Big Game:

The Fighting Farmers:

Chad Henne vs. Ohio State. Henne is the definition of Sophomore Slump – or is it the absence of Edwards Decline? Nevertheless, Henne has not been very good and Ohio State will crush him. I wouldn’t be surprised if he doesn’t finish the game, he’s going to get hit so much. Prediction: 170 yards passing, 1 passing TD – 11 fantasy points.

Blake Powers vs. Purdue. Powers started strong but has come down to earth in the second half of the Big Ten season. Purdue’s defense is precisely the opposite. Things are moving in the wrong direction for the Farmers. Prediction: 180 yards passing, 40 yards rushing, 1 TD – 17 fantasy points.

Gary Russell vs Iowa. Russell has been spectacular this season. A touchdown machine, Little Earl certainly can put up the fantasy points. He hit his head real hard last week, though, and the status of Lawence Maroney could impact his playing time. Nobody can stop the Gophers running game and Russell will carry his weight for the Farmers. Prediction: 120 yards, 3 TD – 30 fantasy points.

Pierre Thomas vs Northwestern. Thomas has had a decent season but he won’t do much this Saturday. Northwestern will take the lead 7-0 on its first possession and it won’t give that up the rest of the game. Thomas won’t get 10 carries. Prediction: 30 yards rushing, 40 yards receiving – 7 fantasy points.

Santoio Holmes vs. Michigan. Holmes could be huge against Michigan. He is a talented WR who may be headed to the NFL. But the emergence of the running game at OSU will limit his production a bit. Prediction: 100 yards receiving, 1 TD – 16 fantasy points.

Jason Avant vs. Ohio State. Avant will be frustrated by the end of the day as Henne will deliver passes above his head and at his feet all day long. Prediction: 70 yards receiving – 7 fantasy points.

Steve Breaston vs. Ohio State. He started out on the Goodgers roster this season. He was the first keeper dropped after an injury dampened start. He has, once again, tantalized the Michigan and Farmer faithful with his recent play. But Ohio State won't let him do too much. Prediction: 50 yards receiving, 30 yards rushing, 1 TD – 14 fantasy points.

Kyle Schlicter vs Minnesota. 7 fantasy points.

The Goodgers:

Brett Basanez vs Illinois. If you’ve read this far, you know that I think Basanez is headed for a big, big day. Basanez’s week 7 fantasy output of 42 points is the highest weekly score for a QB this season. He might do better than that this week as he finishes up his Northwestern career against doormat and intrastate rival Illinois. Prediction: 400 yards passing, 20 yards rushing, 4 passingTD – 34 fantasy points.

Michael Robinson vs. Michigan State. Will he be pulled early? That seems like the only thing that could prevent Mrob from having a very good fantasy outing versus a defenseless Michigan State team. I said this in another thread, I think PS will try and impress poll voters and they will not let off the gas peddle in this game. Prediction: 220 yards passing, 60 yards rushing, 1 rushing TD, 2 passing TD – 29 fantasy points.

Albert Young vs. Minnesota. Young has gotten more impressive as the season has gone on. If Iowa is going to win on Saturday, it will be on Young’s back (or feet). But I Don’t think Iowa is going to win on Saturday. A good day for Young but not great. Prediction: 80 yards rushing, 30 yards receiving, 1 TD – 17 fantasy points.

Lawrence Maroney vs. Iowa. Putting up a zero in the Blue Ox Bowl could be devastating but this is what Maroney was acquired at the trade deadline so he’ll be in the line up. Mike Hart vs. OSU, no. Chris Taylor vs. Purdue – tempting but no. So LoMo must be on the go and I think he will. Prediction: 150 yards, 1 TD – 22 points.

Dorien Bryant vs. Indiana. Bryant isn’t Curtis Painter’s security blanket the way he was for Kirsch but he still gets his share of looks. Purdue will play well and will want to win big. Prediction: 110 yards receiving – 11 fantasy points.

Deon Butler vs. Michigan State. Someone will have a big day for the Nittany Lions I just don’t think it will be Butler. I hope I’m wrong but … Prediction: 50 yards receiving – 5 fantasy points.

Ed Hinkel vs. Minnesota. Hinkel is back, Tate throws him the ball. Will he get in the end zone? Probably not. Prediction: 60 yards receiving – 6 points.

Josh Huston vs. Michigan. 8 fantasy points.

Predicted Final Score

Expect a Threepeat!

Farmers 109
Goodgers 132

The Candy Everyone Wants!

Goodgers Starters

Barring any last minute changes ...

Brett Basanez
Michael Robinson
Lawrence Maroney
Albert Young
Dorien Bryant
Deon Bulter
Ed Hinkel
Josh Huston

Mason's opportunity and my dream

Everyone has posted so many interesting topics that I wish I had more time and typing stamina to respond. Maybe we should start a Big Ten FF conference call each week so we can discuss all these issues. For now I will settle for writing some tidbits here rather than try to go back and respond on each thread.

- I would be thrilled if Maroney went to the Packers. I like Green Bay (behind the Seahawks and Vikes) and it would allow me/us to see him on TV a lot as the GB games are almost always on TV here. Plus, it is better he go to a northern team rather than some southern or coastal team. Would you rather he go to Carolina or Oakland? Yuck!! Also, I bet he will not end up with GB anyway, the predictions this far out are always wrong and GB already tried Thompson and Darkins and got burned so I doubt they will chance an early pick on Maroney. Finally, if dad could hear how much you hate GB Andy-his team- he would disown you!

- I noticed that Michigan is ranked ahead of both Wisc. And Mn. In the B© S standings. What a joke! Wisc. Has 8 wins and beat Michigan and mn could end up with 8 wins and also beat Michigan. Michigan’s last two wins came against the powerhouses Northwestern and Indiana. It sickens me how much the same old teams are always elevated no matter what their record. Wisconsin and Minnesota should be ahead of Michigan- period!

- I am totally bummed that Czech beat Norway out for a spot in the world cup. I am sorry, I do not have anything against the Czechs, but they have experienced enough success in international competition. They won in hockey recently and I’m tired of them. Plus, every other team I wanted to win in the playoffs lost- except Switz. managed to beat Turkey. I hope that England gets paired with either Sweden or Portugal. I want revenge against Portugal for that BS loss England suffered in Portugal during the semis of Euro 2004. In case you missed it, England scored the winning goal in regulation but it was disallowed and eventually Portugal won in a shoot-out. It is clear that the goal should have counted and Portugal got the favorable the call on their home field. Revenge!

- Is anyone surprised by the mayoral election results in Mpls? I thought MCL would give Ryback more of a contest.

- Alabama lost!!! YES! What an overrated team- the gophers would beat them again if they played this year.

- Did I miss something or did the oil companies recently announce record profits and there is still no sings of outrage from the American people? What sheep! It’s just supply and demand! By the way, my property taxes for 2006 are going up 16.5%. I’d just like to thank Jesse and the Republicans for gutting education funding, city aid and basically making the cost of simply breathing ridiculously expensive. And still the Democrats will lose the senate and governor’s race in this state next year.

- OK I put it off long enough now I am going to be sucked into the Mason debate once again. It’s funny this issue came up again as I was thinking that if the gophers win tomorrow I am prepared to argue that this was Mason’s best coaching job in his tenure at mn- even with the wisc debacle. As far as I am concerned if you beat Michigan and Iowa in the same year you are wildly successful. The last time Minnesota beat them both in the same year was 1967- the last time we won the conference title too. So Mason can actually accomplish a rare feat and something that I personally consider significant. I want to beat Michigan and Iowa more than any other teams in the country and if Mason can do it then he deserves credit. Don’t misunderstand me, I still think Mason should be fired for the totality of his work here, his inability to win a title or finish in the top three is inexcusable after 9 years, and a win at Iowa will actually magnify this inability as the Wisconsin melt-down will then be the loss standing in the way of a 9-2 season and an outright third place finish in the Big Ten. But in this one season Mason managed to get a lot of moneys off his/our back. Beating Purdue for the first time in a decade, beating Michigan for the first time in almost two decades, beating Indiana in Bloomington for the first time in 2 decades and winning the final three games of the season for only the second time since 1973 all in the same year is an accomplishment (that only reveals how pathetic we have been over the last 40 years) I did not expect going into the season. Minnesota had a tougher conference schedule this year than they have had in the past 3 years and losing to Penn State and Ohio State (both legitimate top 5 teams in my opinion- OSu would have beaten texas if smith had played all game) is no disgrace. So I am sorry Andy but I think a win over Iowa easily vaults this year above last year and may be number one in the Mason era because of our schedule and who we beat to get our wins. Maybe a more accurate assessment is to say that beating Iowa with the jug already in hand will be the most satisfying year (regular season) that I have experienced in all my years of following gopher football. It is saying a lot but when you have never beaten Michigan and Iowa in the same season- in your life!- it takes on more meaning than one might assume and combine it with finishing 8-3 overall and on a three game winning streak to close out the year- then yes it should be ranked number 1. Of course, all this is dependent on Minnesota winning, which I doubt will happen. If Minnesota loses I still think this was a good year- not great- but certainly on par with last season if not a little better and still better than I expected before the start of the season. Mason has a great opportunity to make gopher football history and turn at least one detractor into a temporary supporter tomorrow- I hope he does it for both our sakes.

- incidentally, assuming that tomorrows game gives us no memorable plays I think the two plays that I will remember from this season- even 20 years from now -are the Cupito option run that tied the game against Purdue (it was huge at the time) because it was so unlikely and the come-back and OT win was really Cupito’s “moment in the sun” and I was genuinely happy for him after all the abuse and criticism he has endured and I was thrilled with a big win at the time. And the other play of course is Russell’s run against Michigan to set up the winning kick. The run will live forever in gopher history and watching him run down the sidelines as I screamed “Go” at the top of my lungs is a moment of joy and exhilaration that I will re-live for the rest of my life and that win makes all the years of suffering, torment, and frustration almost worth it. Thank you Gary! Only a big ten title or a national title could possibly feel better.

- As for Mason’s future I think it’s hard to say. I think Mason will get some offers after this year but nothing that is an obvious “take’ job. I think it may boil down to his contract offer from Maturi. I suspect he is frustrated with manurei and his foot dragging as well as the small salary increase he is likely to get. In my mind this is the biggest reason why mason might leave- he has soured on his contract, the football budget is low or at least lower than Mason thinks it should be, and the stadium delays irritate him. Jay might be right that he decides to cut and run one last time but on the other hand I think his daughter is still in High school and I doubt that his family wants to move at this stage. If I were laying odds I’d say it is 70/30 that he says at Minn. I think he has to win tomorrow, get a low-ball contract offer and be offered a pretty sweet job in a power conference- Syracuse, Tennessee? If those things happen then I would not be surprised to see him leave otherwise I think he knows that he can coach here until he dies if he wants and if he ever breaks through he will be a hero on the scale of alverez. I would be shocked if he took the K-state job and yes I think he still holds out hope for the PSU job. And by the way, if Mason leaves Maturi will take incredible heat from alumni and will probably be sacked as a result. But don’t worry chances are the gophs lay an egg tomorrow as they have every year at Iowa since 1989 and Mason will have a chance to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory again next year against one of our rivals.

Blue Ox Bowl III Predictions

-Babe?
I'm sure coach Wendelberger won't like the karma of having the chickens counted before they're hatched(or any other cliche you want to insert here), but I think this one is already over. Are the Goodgers buffing and shining (glueing and repairing) Babe the Blue Ox in preperation for it being immortalized with a third Bucky's Goodgers Championship ("Bucky's Goodgers - 2005"). I'm getting my paint brush and red paint ready tonight!
I wanted to insert a photo of the Ox here, but I realized I don't have one on my work computer...sorry :(

-Now to the predictions...

I hate to say it, but I see two blowouts:

Blue Ox Bowl III

Bucky's Goodgers - 125

MN Fighting Farmers - 102

Gopher Bowl

Golden Goblins - 113

Halifax Spitfires - 89

No Change in the Rankings

Even after the Michigan State win the standings dont change. A loss to Iowa and a win in the Motor City Bowl isnt as good as last years 6-5 and win over Alabama in the Music City...but we'll see, there's still 2 games to play!

1) 2003 10-3, 5-3, 4th, Win Sun Bowl v. Oregon 31-30
2) 1999 8-4, 5-3, 4th, Lose Sun Bowl v. Oregon
3) 2002 8-5, 3-5, 7th, Win Music City Bowl v. Arkansas
4) 2004 7-5, 3-5, 8th, Win Music City Bowl v. Alabama
5) 2005 7-3, 4-3
6) 2000 6-6, 4-4, 5th, Lose Micronpc Bowl v. NC State
7) 1998 5-6, 2-6, 7th
8) 1993 4-7, 3-5, 8th
9) 2001 4-7, 2-6, 10th
10) 1996 4-7, 1-7, 9th
11) 1992 2-9, 2-6, 10th
12) 1995 3-8, 1-7, 10th
13) 1994 3-8, 1-7, 11th
14) 1997 3-9, 1-7, 9th
15) 1991 2-9, 1-7, 10th

Final Transactions of the Season are Posted

I can't believe its almost over....what will I do for the next nine months of my life?

Gopher Bowl Preview

Gopher Bowl 2006


Halifax Spitfires (1-10) at Golden Goblins (5-6)

Can a team with one win be surging? The Halifax Spitfires certainly think so. The Spitfires lost their first 9 games of the Big Ten Fantasy Football season but they won in week ten, shortly after jettisoning their team leader and high scorer Lawrence Maroney. Maroney’s criticism of the teams quarterbacking had worn thin in the Spitfires locker room and he was let go as the team looked toward the future. The team responded with its only win of the season. Tony Pittman and Tony Hunt have thrived in Maroney’s absence, causing many of the Spitfire faithful to wonder whether the season would have been different without the locker room distractions now apparent coming from Maroney.

For the Golden Goblins, the Goblet is half full (or, more likely, according to Coach Carhart, half empty). Participants in the Blue Ox Bowl in the previous two years, a third place finish and 5-6 record has to be disappointing. However, this team has clearly reloaded and there is guarded optimism that 2006 might be the year that the Goblins win the whole thing. Moreover, it is hoped that the Goblins can be dominant beyond 2006. The team is stocked with Freshman and Sophomore talent that includes Troy Smith, Tyrell Sutton and James Hardy – possibly the most productive three players going into next season. A win in the Gopher Bowl to end the season on a high note is just what the Goblins and their young, inexperienced team needs to build on for a 2006 run for the Ox.

Breaking down the match-up

Spitfires:

Tim Brasic vs. Northwestern. Brasic may have more trouble with this match-up than it appears. He does run the ball and that added to Brasic’s pedestrian passing numbers has produced a serviceable starter all season. Playing from behind might push these numbers up. Prediction: 210 yards, 1 TD, 60 yards rushing – 19 fantasy points.

Tony Pittman vs. Michigan. Pittman has come on as defenses have tried to stop QB Troy Smith. This is a huge game for both teams and Ohio State is hoping to get a BCS at large berth with a win. That ussually means Michigan will sneak up and destroy the Buckeyes hope but not this year. Prediction: 120 yards rushing, 2 TD – 24 fantasy points

Tony Hunt vs Michigan State. This is a favorable match up for the Spitfires. Penn State needs a win, Michigan State is a team in free fall. Tony Hunt will have his best game of the season. Prediction: 170 yards rushing, 45 yards receiving, 3 TD – 38 fantasy points

Kevin Grady vs. Ohio State. Not so favorable. Ohio State has the best defense in college football. Grady will see action but Michigan will be behind all game. Prediction: 40 yards rushing, 10 yards receiving – 5 fantasy points.

Shawn Herbert vs. Illinois. This is a tough call. Northwestern will score, they will score a lot, and I believe they will look to get B squared a big game to go out on. But will Herbert be the beneficiary? I think yes. Prediction: 130 yards receiving, 3 TD – 31 fantasy points

Ted Ginn, Jr vs. Michigan. Another tough call, Ginn has been a monumental disappointment for the Buckeyes this season. He’s unreliable and this is a big game that OSU needs. Ginn will be invisible on offense. Prediction: 25 yards receiving – 2 fantasy points.

Random extra reciever – 5 fantasy points

Random Big Ten Kicker – 8 fantasy points

Golden Goblins:

Troy Smith vs. Michigan. This one is simple. Huge game for Ohio State = huge game for Troy Smith. Prediction: 180 yards passing, 90 yards rushing, 1 passing TD, 2 rushing TD – 33 points

Drew Tate vs. Minnesota. Iowa has been inconsistent and so has Tate. This will be a close game, the Gophers will control the clock and Tate will struggle to produce. Prediction: 220 yards passing, 2 passing TD – 17 fantasy points

Tyrell Sutton vs. Illinois. Watch out. This is the key player in the Gopher Bowl. Northwestern’s offense will manhandle Illinois’ defense. Sutton will have a big game – the question will be touchdowns. I think Randy Walker sends off Basanez with a bang – Sutton has years ahead of him, Saturday, is the senior quarterback’s day. 200 yards rushing, 20 yards receiving, 1 TD – 28 fantasy points.

Javon Ringer vs. Penn State. Penn State has a great defense, John L. Smith’s team checks out a half time. Ringer has a bright future but he will struggle Saturday. Prediction: 50 yards rushing, 40 yards receiving – 9 fantasy points.

Jerod Void vs. Indiana. Void, an untalented and useless player in this writer’s opinion, has had a very good fantasy season. A senior playing against a bad Indiana team looks good. But I think Indiana believes they can win this and end Hoeppner’s first season on a high note. They won’t, but they will play a good game for 3 quarters. Prediction: 80 yards rushing, 1 TD – 14 points.

Clinton Soloman vs. Minnesota. Soloman is another player that wants to close out his college career with a bang. Again, this match-up looks good on paper but Soloman will struggle. Prediction: 70 yards receiving – 7 points.

Jeremy Scott vs. Penn State. Tough match-up. Team giving up. Prediction: 50 yards receiving – 5 fantasy points.

Random Wide Receiver -- 5 fantasy points

Ben Jones – 7 points

Predicted Final Score

Spitfires get the upset!

Halifax Spitfires 132
Golden Goblins 116

The catnip will be flowing in Halifax!

Spitfires Gopher Bowl Press Release

The Halifax Spitfires will be wearing their alternate logo helmet for their 3rd straight appearance in the Gopher Bowl.
The Spitfires starting lineup is not complete, with question marks at the 3rd receiver position and the kicking position, but the following starters have been announced.

QB-Tim Brasic
RB-Tony Pittman
RB-Tony Hunt
RB-Kevin Grady
WR-Shaun Herbert
WR-Ted Ginn

The Spitfires will leave Friday morning for the airport as they head off to the face the Golden Goblins in Gopher Bowl III.

2006 Mock Draft

Laurence Maroney to the Packers!? THERE IS NO GOD!

http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/sub/mockdraft.html

Big Ten Photo of The Year

It's A Tie!

Wednesday Predictions

Penn State - 35
Michigan State - 20

Ohio State - 31
Michigan - 20

Northwestern - 44
Illinois - 16

Iowa - 38
Minnesota - 17

Purdue - 38
Indiana - 17

This Weeks Pick 'em Games

Virginia Tech at Virginia
Oklahoma at Texas Tech
Cincinnati at South Florida
Boston College at Maryland
Vanderbilt at Tennessee
Missouri at Kansas State
Oklahoma State at Baylor
Mississippi State at Arkansas
Utah at BYU
Washington State at Washington
Alabama at Auburn
SMU at Houston
UAB at UTEP
California at Stanford
Clemson at South Carolina
Georgia Tech at Miami
Memphis at Southern Miss
Fresno St. at USC

...and dont forget the Big Ten...of course.

Goodgers Win BTFFL Regular Season Championship!

The Goodgers clinched the BTFFL Regular Season Title and homefield advantage in the Blue Ox Bowl with their 113-74 win over the Halifax Spitfires in the final week of the regular season. The final standing had the goodgers and Farmers tied atop the BTFFL with 8-3 records, but the Goodgers won the tiebreaker by a mere 21 pts. (1300-1279) to win the title. Congratulations to the Goodgers and coach Wendelberger on yet another trip to the Blue Ox Bowl and a chance for a 3-peat!

Happy Super Conference Standings

NORTHWEST

1. Oregon (9-1) PAC Ten
2. Boise State (7-3) WAC
3. California (6-4) PAC Ten
4. Oregon State (5-5) PAC Ten
5. Washington State (3-7) PAC Ten

6. Washington (2-8) PAC Ten

WEST
1. UTEP (8-1) C-USA
2. Colorado (7-3) Big XII
3. Missouri (6-4) Big XII
4. Colorado State (5-5) Mtn. West
5. Hawaii (4-6) WAC
6. Kansas State (4-6) Big XII

EAST
1. Penn State (9-1) Big Ten
2. West Virginia (8-1) Big East
3. Rutgers (6-4) Big East
4. Pittsburgh (5-5) Big East
5. Connecticut (4-5) Big East
6. Vanderbilt (4-6) SEC

MIDWEST
1. Minnesota (7-3) Big Ten
2. Iowa State (7-3) Big XII
3. Northwestern (6-4) Big Ten
4. Michigan State (5-5) Big Ten
5. Northern Illinois (5-4) MAC
6. Illinois (2-8) Big Ten

Big Ten Power Rankings

THE THREE TIERS

1. Penn State (9-1)
2. Ohio State (8-2)
---------------------
3. Michigan (7-3)
4. Iowa (6-4)
5. Northwestern (7-3)
6. Wisconsin (8-3)
7. Minnesota (7-3)
---------------------
8. Purdue (4-6)
9. Michigan State (5-5)
10. Indiana (4-6)
11. Illinois (2-8)

Ranking Them

1. Texas (10-0)







2. USC (10-0)







3. TCU (10-1)
4. Penn State (9-1)
5. Oregon (9-1)
6. UCLA (9-1)
7. Alabama (9-1)
8. LSU (8-1)
9. Miami (8-1)
10. Virginia Tech (8-1)
11. West Virginia (8-1)
12. Fresno State (8-1)
13. UTEP (8-1)
14. Ohio State (8-2)
15. Auburn (8-2)
16. Texas Tech (8-2)
17. Notre Dame (7-2)
18. Georgia (7-2)
19. Louisville (7-2)
20. Toledo (7-2)
21. Wisconsin (8-3)
22. Iowa State (7-3)
23. Florida State (7-3)
24. Michigan (7-3)
25. Minnesota (7-3)
26. Boston College (7-3)
27. South Carolina (7-3)
28. Florida (7-3)
29. Colorado (7-3)
30. Boise State (7-3)
31. Central Florida (7-3)
32. Western Michigan (7-3)
33. Georgia Tech (6-3)
34. Oklahoma (6-3)
35. Virginia (6-3)
36. Miami, OH (6-3)
37. Nevada (6-3)
38. LA Tech (6-3)
39. South Florida (5-3)
40. Southern Miss (5-3)
41. Iowa (6-4)
42. Northwestern (6-4)
43. California (6-4)
44. Clemson (6-4)
45. Missouri (6-4)
46. Nebraska (6-4)
47. Rutgers (6-4)
48. Tulsa (6-4)
49. BYU (6-4)
50. New Mexico (6-4)

BOWL ELIGIBLE
---------------------------------------------
BOWL BUBBLE

51. Stanford (5-4)
52. Maryland (5-4)
53. Navy (5-4)
54. Bowling Green (5-4)
55. Northern Illinois (5-4)
56. Arkansas State (5-4)
57. Houston (4-4)
58. Arizona State (5-5)
59. Kansas (5-5)
60. Oregon State (5-5)
61. Michigan State (5-5)
62. Texas A&M (5-5)
63. Pittsburgh (5-5)
64. Utah (5-5)
65. Colorado State (5-5)
66. Central Michigan (5-5)
67. Louisiana-Lafayette (5-5)
68. Tennessee (4-5)
69. North Carolina (4-5)
70. North Carolina State (4-5)
71. Oklahoma State (4-5)
72. Cincinnati (4-5)
73. Connecticut (4-5)
74. Memphis (4-5)
75. UAB (4-5)
76. Ohio (4-5)
77. Marshall (4-5)
78. Louisiana Monroe (4-5)
79. Akron (4-5)
80. Middle Tennessee State (3-5)

BOWL BUBBLE
----------------------------------------------------
OUT OF BOWL CONTENTION

81. Purdue (4-6)
82. Kansas State (4-6)
83. Indiana (4-6)
84. Vanderbilt (4-6)
85. Baylor (4-6)
86. Wyoming (4-6)
87. San Diego State (4-6)
88. Hawaii (4-6)
89. Troy (4-6)
90. Ball State (4-6)
91. Kentucky (3-6)
92. Arkansas (3-6)
93. Mississippi (3-6)
94. Army (3-6)
95. SMU (3-6)
96. East Carolina (3-6)
97. Wake Forest (4-7)
98. Florida International (2-6)
99. Arizona (3-7)
100. Washington State (3-7)
101. Air Force (3-7)
102. Eastern Michigan (3-7)
103. Mississippi State (2-7)
104. Tulane (2-7)
105. North Texas (2-7)
106. Idaho (2-7)
107. Utah State (2-7)
108. Illinois (2-8)
109. Washington (2-8)
--------------------------------------
THE TERRIBLE TEN

110. UNLV (2-8)
111. Florida Atlantic (2-8)
112. Syracuse (1-8)
113. San Jose State (1-8)
114. Rice (1-8)
115. Duke (1-9)
116. Buffalo (1-9)
117. Kent State (1-9)
118. New Mexico State (0-10)
119. Temple (0-10)

Goodger's Starters

Goodgers Go For Regular Season Title

With their victory last week against the Golden Goblins, the Goodgers have put themselves in a position to win the BTFFL regular season championship with a win. The Goodgers hope to win the championship and play for the Blue Ox Bowl at home.

The Goodgers will play the Fightin' Farmers in that game, no matter what the results this weekend. The Goodgers hope to avoid a return trip to Dekalb Corn Field where they lost 2 weeks ago. Goodgers coach Wendelberger was reportedly angry after he and his players were pelted mercilessly by the "Nothin' Goodie" homecoming Candy distributed by school officials. "Those Angry Hick fans at Fallow Field can kiss my ass. The candy was as hard as a rock and I tried the damn thing and it tasted like cow dung ... I guess that's what they eat there."

The coach seems easily distracted when facing the Farmers this season and there are worrries that the team might not be on top of thier game when the play the Farmers in the Bowl this year.

QB1 Curtis Painter
QB2 Drew Stanton
RB1 Albert Young
RB2 Lawernce Maroney
WR1 Dorien Bryant
WR2 Brandon Williams
WR3 Herb Grigsby
K Josh Huston

pick'em winners!

Another tie! I'd just like to thank Iowa for finding yet another way to screw me! If they hang on against NW I win it all! When the revolution comes all Iowa fans and players are going to be the first up against the wall!

Jay 7 missed .25 winnings
Matt 7 missed .25 winnings
Andy 8 missed
Shawn 11 missed

I'll update winnings later

Update on Ranking the Gopher Football Seasons

2005 surpasses 2000. With 2 loses this season will stay where it is. If they win1 or two more and can win the Bowl game it'll move up. I can't believe I've watched that many years of shitty football. I cany imagine how Matt and Shawn feel. Damn, that must suck!

1) 2003 10-3, 5-3, 4th, Win Sun Bowl v. Oregon 31-30
2) 1999 8-4, 5-3, 4th, Lose Sun Bowl v. Oregon
3) 2002 8-5, 3-5, 7th, Win Music City Bowl v. Arkansas
4) 2004 7-5, 3-5, 8th, Win Music City Bowl v. Alabama
5) 2005 6-3, 3-3
6) 2000 6-6, 4-4, 5th, Lose Micronpc Bowl v. NC State
7) 1998 5-6, 2-6, 7th
8) 1993 4-7, 3-5, 8th
9) 2001 4-7, 2-6, 10th
10) 1996 4-7, 1-7, 9th
11) 1992 2-9, 2-6, 10th
12) 1995 3-8, 1-7, 10th
13) 1994 3-8, 1-7, 11th
14) 1997 3-9, 1-7, 9th
15) 1991 2-9, 1-7, 10th

Watch out for 'Digital Maroney' this weekend!

This Weeks Pick 'em Games

Boise State at Fresno State (Thursday)
Rutgers at Louisville (Friday)
Texas A&M at Oklahoma
Connecticut at Pittsburgh
Maryland at North Carolina
Florida at South Carolina
Central Michigan at Western Michigan
Baylor at Missouri
Georgia Tech at Virginia
USC at California
LSU at Alabama
Stanford at Oregon State
Arizona State at UCLA
Colorado at Iowa State
North Carolina State at Boston College
Auburn at Georgia
Oregon at Washington State

plus the Big 10...OF COURSE!

Spitfires Win!

The Orange Fur is loving it.

Go Spitz!

Oh yeah...and the Farmers and Goodgers have clinched spots in Blue Ox Bowl III. Homefield advantage for the game will be determined this week. This will mark that first Blue Ox Bowl that did not match the Goblins and Goodgers.

And the Goblins will host the Spitfires in the 3rd annual Gopher Bowl.

Wednesday Predictions

Purdue 28
Illinois 17

Michigan 35
Indiana 10

Iowa 24
Wisconsin 38

Michigan State 28
Minnesota 31

Northwestern 14
Ohio State 35

Transactions Finally Up

I finally got the pick-ups and rosters from last week updated. I probably wont get to the scores until tomorrow. Sorry.

1. USC (9-0)







2. Texas (9-0)







3. Alabama (9-0)







4. Penn State (9-1)
5. TCU (9-1)
6. Oregon (8-1)
7. Virginia Tech (8-1)
8. Texas Tech (8-1)
9. UCLA (8-1)
10. Miami (7-1)
11. LSU (7-1)
12. Georgia (7-1)
13. West Virginia (7-1)
14. Fresno State (7-1)
15. UTEP (7-1)
16. Wisconsin (8-2)
17. Ohio State (7-2)
18. Auburn (7-2)
19. Florida (7-2)
20. Colorado (7-2)
21. Florida State (7-2)
22. Boise State (7-2)
23. Toledo (7-2)
24. Notre Dame (6-2)
25. Georgia Tech (6-2)
26. Louisville (6-2)
27. California (6-3)
28. Michigan (6-3)
29. Boston College (6-3)
30. Northwestern (6-3)
31. Minnesota (6-3)
32. Iowa State (6-3)
33. South Carolina (6-3)
34. Rutgers (6-3)
35. Miami, OH (6-3)
36. Central Florida (6-3)
37. Western Michigan (6-3)
38. Oklahoma (5-3)
39. Virginia (5-3)
40. Navy (5-3)
41. Nevada (5-3)
42. Louisiana Tech (5-3)
43. South Florida (4-3)
44. Southern Miss (4-3)
45. Iowa (5-4)
46. Michigan State (5-4)
47. Kansas (5-4)
48. Nebraska (5-4)
49. Missouri (5-4)
50. Arizona State (5-4)
51. Clemson (5-4)
52. Texas A&M (5-4)
53. Oregon State (5-4)
54. Colorado State (5-4)
55. Utah (5-4)
56. New Mexico (5-4)
57. Tulsa (5-4)
58. BYU (5-4)
59. Bowling Green (5-4)
60. Northern Illinois (5-4)
61. Central Michigan (5-4)
62. North Carolina (4-4)
63. Stanford (4-4)
64. North Carolina State (4-4)
65. Maryland (4-4)
66. Connecticut (4-4)
67. Cincinnati (4-4)
68. Marshall (4-4)
69. Memphis (4-4)
70. UAB (4-4)
71. Houston (4-4)
72. Arkansas State (4-4)
73. Middle Tennessee State (3-4)
74. Vanderbilt (4-5)
75. Kansas State (4-5)
76. Baylor (4-5)
77. Indiana (4-5)
78. Pittsburgh (4-5)
79. Ohio (4-5)
80. Wyoming (4-5)
81. Louisiana Lafayette (4-5)
82. Troy (4-5)
83. Akron (4-5)
84. Tennessee (3-5)
85. Oklahoma State (3-5)
86. Mississippi (3-5)
87. East Carolina (3-5)
88. Louisiana Monroe (3-5)
89. Wake Forest (4-6)
90. Florida International (2-5)
91. Arizona (3-6)
92. Purdue (3-6)
93. Washington State (3-6)
94. Hawaii (3-6)
95. SMU (3-6)
96. San Diego State (3-6)
97. Eastern Michigan (3-6)
98. Ball State (3-6)
99. Arkansas (2-6)
100. Kentucky (2-6)
101. Army (2-6)
102. North Texas (2-6)
103. Tulane (2-6)
104. Idaho (2-6)
105. Utah State (2-6)
106. Air Force (3-7)
107. Illinois (2-7)
108. Mississippi State (2-7)
109. UNLV (2-7)
THE TERRIBLE TEN:
110. Syracuse (1-7)
111. Washington (1-8)
112. Kent State (1-8)
113. Florida Atlantic (1-8)
114. San Jose State (1-8)
115. Duke (1-9)
116. Rice (0-8)
117. Buffalo (0-9)
118. New Mexco State (0-9)
119. Temple (0-10)

Andy Happy Super Conference Standings

Logjam atop Midwest Division Continues.

NORTHWEST

1. Oregon (8-1) PAC Ten
2. Boise State (7-2) WAC
3. California (6-3) PAC Ten
4. Oregon State (5-4) PAC Ten
5. Washington State (3-6) PAC Ten

6. Washington (1-8) PAC Ten

WEST
1. UTEP (7-1) C-USA
2. Colorado (7-2) Big XII
3. Missouri (5-4) Big XII
4. Colorado State (5-4) Mtn. West
5. Kansas State (4-5) Big XII
6. Hawaii (3-6) WAC

EAST
1. Penn State (9-1) Big Ten
2. West Virginia (7-1) Big East
3. Rutgers (6-3) Big East
4. Connecticut (4-4) Big East
5. Vanderbilt (4-5) SEC
6. Pittsburgh (4-5) Big East

MIDWEST
1. Minnesota (6-3) Big Ten
2. Iowa State (6-3) Big XII
3. Northwestern (6-3) Big Ten
4. Michigan State (5-4) Big Ten
5. Northern Illinois (5-4) MAC
6. Illinois (2-7) Big Ten

Power Rankings

1. Penn State 9-1
2. Ohio State 7-2
------------------
3. Michigan 6-3
4. Northwestern 6-3
5. Wisconsin 8-2
------------------
6. Iowa 5-4
7. Michigan State 5-4
8. Minnesota 6-3
-----------------
9. Purdue 3-6
10. Indiana 4-5
11. Illinois 2-7

Almost forgot - Go Cyclones!

It's Gameday!

Everyone else is still sleeping, but I'm up and nervous before the big game. The Gophers have to win this one if they want to reach the Motor City Bowl this year...otherwise its a stay at home Christmas.

...ok, now Shawn and Michelle are awake(I can hear them whispering), but dont want to get up.

Can the Gophers get a win in Bloomington for the first time since Lou Holtz in 1985?... I don't think so, but we'll find out soon.

Go Gophers!

One day ...three Big Ten campuses

It's the night before the game and we're getting prepped in the Super 8 in Martinsville after our successful break-in at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, IL. One day and three Big Ten campuses...started the day in Madison, lunch and stadium break-in in Champaign, and now in the hotel outside Bloomington. I think we set some record!

Why Weis, but not Willingham?

Great article...check it out.

sports.espn.go.com/espn/p...ock/051101

Week 10 pick-em - lets get it in before we leave tonight

Toledo at Ohio (Friday)
South Florida at Rutgers
Nebraska at Kansas
Kansas State at Iowa State
Tennessee at Notre Dame
Wyoming at Utah
Missouri at Colorado
California at Oregon
Arizona State at Washington State
UCLA at Arizona
Texas A&M at Texas Tech
Colorado State at TCU
Miami at Virginia Tech
LA-Lafayette at North Texas
Tulsa at UTEP
Stanford at USC

Plus the Big Ten of course...

Mistake in Week 9 Scores

Matt told me I made a mistake int he week 9 scores. The Goblins actually started Javon Ringer, and not Bryan Cuptio. It only made a 1 pt. difference, from 96 to 95, so it doesnt really matter, but I changed and updated everything on the site.

Farmers Starters

QB Powers (vs. Minnesota's horseshit D)
QB Kirsch (starter for now)
RB Calhoun (won't repeat last weeks effort)
RB Russell (I see 100 yards and 2 tds in my glass ball)
WR Holmes (another 100 yds, but only one td)
WR Ingraham (40 yds, no tds)
WR Trannon (purely desperation here)
K Schlicher

Andy may actually get a win if Calhoun doesn't produce

Pick'em winner

WOW! The farmer continues to roll or should I say bale!
I think he set a record for fewest games wrong in a week!
Nice work farmer!

1 Shawn only 2 missed games- both out of the Big 12 (NEB, MIZZU)
2 Matt 6 missed -but perfect in the big ten
3 Andy 8 missed
4 Jay 12 missed


Winnings

Shawn 2.00
Andy 1.75
Matt .50
Jay ......

.25 cents still needs to be split b/t Andy, Jay and Matt and is not included in the above winnings.

Wednesday Predictions

Ill 3
OSU 30

IA 21
NW 31

MSU 41
PU 21

MN 28
IU 24

WI 21
PS 28

Goodgers likely Starters

QB1 Drew Stanton
QB2 Michael Robinson
RB1 Albert Young
RB2 Lawrence Maroney
WR1 Dorien Bryant
WR2 Deon Butler
WR3 Brandon Williams
K Josh Huston

Before I forget

I'm bidding 5 on Penn State K Kevin Kelly and dropping Wisconsin K Taylor Melhaff. I'm starting Kelly. Please don't outbid me (Jay)as I'll be gone tomorrow night! Thanks :)

Photos from Our Date with Iowa State 2 Weeks Ago

You gotta love outdoor football. This was just the warmup for this weekend as we head down to the only Southern campus in the Big Ten to watch the Gophers battle the Hoosieres in Bloomington, IN. If there's a wireless connection in our hotles I'll post some photo updates as the trip develops. DONT FORGET TO GET YOUR PICKUPS AND LINEUPS IN BEFORE WE LEAVE TOMORROW OR JAY WILL BE PISSED!!

Why just play the BTFFL?

When you can own your own pro team.... Click on the link provided for this interesting listing;

http://cgi.ebay.com/Pro-Football-UIF-Franchise-For-Sale-Wheeling-WV_W0QQitemZ7193691232QQcategoryZ2024QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

When can draft our own players for real right from our very own favorite schools onto our team. Hell, the Greyhounds already have two former Gophers and a Badger so part of our work is already done. I think Thomas Hamner is still unemployed, and Jay, you can draft John Orr if you want him. All we have to do is come up w/ 25K each. If we don't like the coaching, we can simply install ourselves. I think my dream job has finally arrived.

The offical team site link is at the bottom of the ebay listing.

Looking Forward – The Keepers

If the season ended today:

Bucky’s Goodgers

Definite Keepers: Drew Stanton, Mike Hart, Lawrence Maroney, Albert Young, Dorien Bryant

On the Bubble: Dion Butler

Keep an eye on: Curtis Painter

Could be gone early: Drew Stanton, Lawrence Maroney

Will be missed: Brett Basanez, Michael Robinson

Minnesota Fighting Farmers

Definite Keepers: Blake Powers, Brian Calhoun, Gary Russell, Mario Manningham

On the Bubble: Brandon Kirsch, Chad Henne, Pierre Thomas, Santonio Holmes, Kyle Ingraham

Keep an eye on: Demetrius McCray

Could be gone early: Brian Calhoun, Santonio Holmes

Will be missed: Jason Avant

Halifax Spitfires

Definite Keepers: Derrick Williams

On the Bubble: Anthony Morelli, Tim Brasic, Tony Pittman, Tony Hunt, Ernie Wheelwright, Ted Ginn, Jr

Keep an eye on: Kevin Grady, Jay Thomas, EB Halsey

Could be gone early: None

Will be missed: None

Golden Goblins

Definite Keepers: Troy Smith, Kory Sheets, Javon Ringer, Tyrell Sutton, James Hardy

On the Bubble: Drew Tate

Keep an eye on: Rashard Mendenhall, Jeremy Scott

Could be gone early: None

Will be missed: None

Scores Are Up!

Just posted this week scores. All 3 teams in the BTFFL are still in contention for the Blue Ox Bowl.

Power Rankings

1. Penn State 8-1 (win out: 10-1, BCS Bowl)
2. Ohio State 6-2 (win out: 9-2, Capitol One Bowl)
3. Michigan 6-3 (beat IN and lose to OSU: 7-4, Alamo Bowl)
4. Wisconsin 8-1 (lose to PSU and beat IA and Hawaii: 10-2, Outback Bowl)
5. Iowa 5-3 (beat NW and MN, lose to WI: 7-4, Sun Bowl)
6. Michigan State 5-3 (beat PU and MN, lose to PSU: 7-4, Music City Bowl)
7. Northwestern 5-3 (lose to IA and OSU, beat IL: 6-5, Motor City Bowl)
8. Indiana 4-4 (beat MN and PU, lose to MI: 6-5, At-Large Bowl...Independence?)
9. Minnesota 5-3 (lose out: 5-6)
10. Purdue 2-6 (beat IL, lose to MSU and IN: 3-8)
11. Illinois 2-6 (lose out: 2-9)

No scores today...ESPN.com!

ESPN doesnt have box score for Indian-MSU listed, so I cant finish the scores today. i'm going to wait a couple days to see if they get that up. If they dont I;ll have to use CBS or something else just for that game this week.

Andy Happy Super Conference Standings

Minnesota remains in 4-way tie for first in Midwest Division with Michigan State, Northwestern, Iowa State....Oregon, Penn State and UTEP also still leading their Divisions.

NORTHWEST

1. Oregon (7-1) PAC Ten
2. California (6-2) PAC Ten
3. Boise State (6-2) WAC
4. Oregon State (4-4) PAC Ten
5. Washington State (3-5) PAC Ten

6. Washington (1-7) PAC Ten

WEST
1. UTEP (6-1) C-USA
2. Colorado (6-2) Big XII
3. Missouri (5-3) Big XII
4. Colorado State (5-3) Mtn. West
5. Kansas State (4-4) Big XII
6. Hawaii (3-5) WAC

EAST
1. Penn State (8-1) Big Ten
2. West Virginia (6-1) Big East
3. Rutgers (6-2) Big East
4. Connecticut (4-3) Big East
5. Vanderbilt (4-4) SEC
6. Pittsburgh (4-4) Big East

MIDWEST
1. Minnesota (5-3) Big Ten
2. Iowa State (5-3) Big XII
3. Northwestern (5-3) Big Ten
4. Michigan State (5-3) Big Ten
5. Northern Illinois (4-4) MAC
6. Illinois (2-6) Big Ten