Mary Knows Football: Week 7

Before I give you this week’s picks and brilliant analysis, I want to give a shout out to Steve Walsh, Bennie Blades, and Gary Dunn for helping the UMAA Palm Beach ‘Canes Club by signing footballs for me at the Ring of Honor induction luncheon.  I had the opportunity to attend the event with Janice Leis (seen here), my good friend and mother of Ben Leis, the President of the Palm Beach ‘Canes Club. 

 

Hurricane fans attending any of our upcoming game watches will have the opportunity to win the footballs signed by the Ring of Honor inductees (Gary’s signature in Eddie Dunn’s stead, obviously) at Miller's Ale House in east Boca Raton. 

 

This money will help the Palm Beach ‘Canes Club establish a scholarship for an incoming UM student in Palm Beach County and give back to the U. 

 

Okay, end of shameless PBCC game watch plug.

 

9 LSU vs. 3 Alabama: Alabama

 

Since Tattletale Timmy and the University of Felons are playing Vandy, an opponent they likely don’t need biased ref calls (I was a biased ref for Halloween, but even I wasn’t as flagrant as SEC officials) or eye gouging to defeat, let’s take a look at the bitter rivalry between LSU and Bama.  Alabama, who is coming in off a bye, hasn't won against LSU on its own field since 1999.  I would like to apologize in advance to my awesome friend Missy, a big LSU fan and genuine N'awlins gal who invented a combination U/shocker sign to celebrate Shockey's touchdowns, but I think this is going to Bama's year.  Bama's offense is led by Heisman trophy candidate RB Mark Ingram who has already topped 1,000 yards this season.  QB McElroy also has good receiving targets in Jones, Peek, and Maze.  Bama's defense is ranked #4 in the nation and anchored by DT Terrence Cody (who blocked two field goals to save the Tennessee game), LB Rolondo McClain, S Mark Barron, and CB Javier Arenas.  Remember these names.  We will likely be cheering for them the first week of December.  LSU's defense is no slouch, however.  Led by playmakers Jones at S, and Sheppard, Riley, and Coleman at LB, they limited the Crocs to one TD.  The problem? The Tigers' offense.  They rank 100 nationally in yards per game and 67th at scoring offense.  QB Jefferson's stats are more impressive (63% completion for 1,421 yards, 11 TD/4 Int.).  Nonetheless, I don't think the Tigers will be able to put enough points on Bama and we will see the same kind of struggles they had against Floriduh.

 

11 Penn State vs. 16 Ohio State: Penn State

 

The Luckeyes don’t look impressive on offense this year with QB Pryor struggling and calling a certain Sponge-Bob-loving QB down south for help on his game.  The Suckeyes even resorted to trick plays to move the ball against New Mexico State. THE Ohio State University does have a decent defense though.  On the other hand, Penn State comes into this game leading the nation in scoring defense, allowing just over 9 ppg.  This is due in large part to their OLB duo, Bowman and Lee, who led in tackles in the Nittany Lion’s win over Northwestern last week.  QB Clark has his choice of great receivers in Royster, Moye, Powell, and Quarless.  Where is Penn State lacking?  Special teams.  The Nittany Lions are ranked 114 in net punting, 110th in kick returns and 101 in punt returns.  In the Iowa game, Jeremy Boone had his punt blocked and returned for a go-ahead touchdown by DE Clayborn.  Boone had another punt blocked at Michigan.  I predict a Penn State win in a defensive battle, but if Joe Pa drops this game to sweater vest, the Lion’s special teams play is to blame. 

 

10 Georgia Tech vs. Wake Forest:  GA Tech

 

I’m going to skip all the stats since we are pretty familiar with what both teams bring to the table.  Similar to the UNC/VA Tech game last week, boy would I like to be wrong about this pick!  If Riley Skinner plays, maybe I could be.  As much as ‘Canes fans are down on the team for being behind to Wake Forest to most of last week’s game (except for when it counted, of course), Wake Forest does have a good offense and a very good QB.  After GA Tech’s trouble at Vandy and the regression of their defense to what it looked like earlier this season, it is clear they are not invulnerable.  Further, the Deamon Deacons have seen GA Tech’s offense before in a monsoon during their 10-13 loss to Navy.  Still, I think Duke has the better chance for the GT upset.  Oh well.  Let’s send Skinner some “get well soon” cards, ‘Canes fans and hope for the best.

 

Florida State vs. Clemson:  Clemson

 

I haven't done this in a while, and I hope my favorite 'Nole, Julie (she's okay guys, undergrad at FSWho, but med school at UM) will forgive me - but I don't see the 'Noles having a chance against Clemson.  Frankly, I think the Criminoles should just scrap the next few games and should just start preparing for Floriduh now.  Seriously.  You probably aren't going to a decent bowl game this year, Bobby, but if you beat the Crocs and send Saint Timmy off in tears, I bet you get another season to "go out on top."  Anyway, although Clemson's best pass rusher is out this game (Da’Quan Bowers sprained his MCL and PCL), I don't think even an all-world bruised-ribbed Ponder can make up for the 'Noles D in this matchup.  As if things weren’t bad enough before, players have to be distracted by Mickey Andrew’s retirement announcement on Tuesday. Instead of stopping CJ Spiller, I expect to see Criminole defenders running along beside him for 30-40 yards, almost as if they are chatting about the weather and the good crowd at the game.  My advice to avoid embarrassment, 'Noles?  If the coaches say squib, for God's sake, SQUIB!!!  SQUIB!!!

 

17 Miami vs. UVA:  Miami

 

Ah, yes.  It’s finally here.  We get UVA back at home, for our homecoming game no less.  This time, I don’t think our Miami boys will let the Cavaliers spoil the celebration.  We know the problems the ‘Canes are having - I’m not going to beat a dead horse, or in our case, a beleaguered defense and an offense allowing a few too many sacks, interceptions and dropped passes for our liking. 

 

Virginia is the only team in the ACC who runs a 3-4 D and Coach Shannon has been preparing the guys for an eight man front, man coverage, and a very physical crew of CBs.  The Cavaliers are ranked 19th in pass coverage, giving up only 4 passing touchdowns this season.  The ‘Canes had success on the ground against UVA last year, with Coop having a career-best 24 carries for 131 yards.  With the news today that Javaris James will return from injury to play this Saturday, you can expect to see more of a running game between JJ, Cooper and Berry this week.  On offense, UVA gives up more sacks than our O-line – 28 so far – so I think our D will still have success disrupting the Cavalier’s drives despite so many men out.  Further, QB Sewell has been plagued by injuries and dropped passes have been an issue for UVA.  I think the ‘Canes can capitalize on this.

 

I predict an easier game to watch than the last couple of weeks.  No need to constantly change seats in Landshark stadium, change out of your referee costume during half time because you think it is cursed, or  switch the TV you are watching to change the team’s karma – um, not that I do this or anything, but I hear some crazies do. 

 

So enjoy the kegs and eggs tailgating, ‘Canes fans, catch up with old friends at Homecoming, celebrate our alma mater, and watch our beloved Miami boys bring home another W.  This one’s for the Old Girl.  May she rest in peace once we destroy those who dared to stomp on her grave.

Comments

[DZ8]

pb

I think he was told to do this. This will go away... it's just vanderbilt brandon

[miamimike01]

Shayon is an unknown.

When we know about Shayon, It'll be Kevin's turn. RS is giving KN #52 FOR A REASON.

Just like Coop, Ray Ray, and LaRon. There's a purpose.

[CaneSawMassacre]

I'm fine with beating you with our athletes but that doesn't work when guys bite on simple play fakes, misdirections, and loss of containment.

Plus I really see no D0-lineman really working technique and making dominant moves. They have the skills I'm not seeing the technique.

[CaneSawMassacre]

LOL he was probably told to do it or the Goergia player was going to officially press assault charges. Intent to harm/maim/kill with an unfriend/undeadly weapon... a.k.a. Brandon Spike's pinky ring finger.

[DZ8]

Absolutely there is a purpose.

Who knows more about Cane football... me or miamimike01...;) We will see. I just believe from what I've seen of The Randy, he wants players that have been there ( Cook/Sharpton/?Green/Nelson). Maybe with veterans all around the MIKE he can play a true freshman. Will Kevin early enroll? If he doesn't... do bet on him making an impact. We are starting to get depth again.

REALITY

[86Cane]

I wasn't wearing MY OFFICIALLY SANCTIONED CANESPACE SEAN TAYLOR T-SHIRT! wont happen again

Posted by: DZ8 | November 04, 2009 at 10:37 PM

Like I said the other day, I know who was to blame, but I ain't naming names, or numbers.

[DZ8]

don't bet on him making an impact

dont sleep on #11, if he switches to #4 he might look F A T enough to get in the game at middle linebacker

[Esteban]

CSM, I think figs has played well. They highlighted him for not picking up a rusher against wake but who knows if he was supposed to pick him up if someone else was according to the blocking scheme. Plus mauling is what figs excels at. Didn't see him throw the wake DT to the ground and just pound on him after? Dude couldn't get up til a couple seconds after the play figs finally let him.

As for the disguising...the coaches might be telling the players not to show too soon and they do. We don't know. One guy who seems to always be all over the place pre snap is Campbell. Will be at the line of scrimmage than ten yards back then back up. Then drop into coverage. Comes with knowing what ur doing and having savy. That combo is rare at this point for a lot of the players on D.

[DZ8]

shoot,

didn't know U were around

that #4 joke above wasn't from me. I'm having a party and everyone is allowed to type, wont happen again...:)

[86Cane]

CSM...apparently the onlyt hing we CAN disguise around here is the JSQ as a referee.

[86Cane]

DZ8...don't make me come over there and spoil your little party. LOL

[DZ8]

All good. Thinking of a party/balloon/big-head joke but I'm tired... working a lot.

Thanks again 86. Canespace is The Source for Miami Hurricane news, especially football.

(Tried to comment on the other sports but... its just not the same. Live in the DC area and just finished watching the Heat beat the Wizards. But can't comment on other sports at Miami while football is going on.)

[CaneSawMassacre]

Esteban I'm just talking about run blocking. When he pulls, Figs looks lost, if gets lucky and somebody is right in front of him he blows him up, otherwise he can't pick a guy to block it is sickening.

[CaneSawMassacre]

I mean we had a perfect run play called in the 1st quarter for the alignment that Wake Forest had on their D-Line @ the 7:18 mark. All Figs had to do was seal Boo and he gets completely manhandled.

Going from what would have easily been 7-8 yard run, to a a no gainer.

[raizecane]

Did anyone see this? Spikes extending his own suspension?

WTF is going on up there??

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4623708

Posted by: pb(CSROH10) | November 04, 2009 at 10:49 PM

Thats easy....Urban knows he screwed up by only giving him a 1/2 game suspension so they asked him to make a statement that he is going to sit out the whole game. IMO it should be 2 games....

[JCane]

On the interesting recruiting/hs football front, I saw that Pahokee will have to forfeit two games for having used an ineligible player. The 2nd game that will be forfeited isn't clear yet, but depending on the opponent it could knock them right out of the district race and potentially out of contention for another state title.

[CaneSawMassacre]

The Ref missed a blatant pass interference call on TB3 at the 6:37 mark I mean that was bad... Even the Wake Forest player was lookin garound for flags for a minute before shaking his head...

[86Cane]

I saw that Pahokee will have to forfeit two games for having used an ineligible player.

Posted by: JCane | November 04, 2009 at 11:27 PM

Same thing happened this week at Lakeland Kathleen also.

[CaneSawMassacre]

I want to know how the ACC hasn't come out and said that ref made a bad call, that is pass interference if there ever was such a thing. I mean he completely knocked TB3 out of contention for the ball.

[CaneSawMassacre]

Several good routes and call, and throws but the WR slipped.... Why are we not prepared for the field conditions??????????

Can we get a specialist.

LOL I wish I could post the TB3 interference... The dumb ESPN announcers show it 4 times and even segway into commercial with a close up, and say" Defense has been the story so far, Okowo with the knockaway". The darn player never touches the ball but sures knocks TB3 away from catching it.

[miamimike01]

DZ8,

It's not who knows more. Or who knows what, when.

All I'm saying is that Nelson is going to be special.

Shayon asked for 52 and the coaches didn't give it to him. Not saying they were holding it for Nelson, but someone else the staff had in mind for the future.

DZ8, always respected your opinion. When I catch up on the blog I make sure to read your posts.

Not 86's, he stinks! We disagree all the time, and really, don't even like the guy all that much. LOL!

(NOW WE ALL KNOW THAT WAS A LIE, OR WAS IT?)

Joking. I love Canespace and all U guys and gals.

[pb(CSROH10)]

The best part of the whole Spikes thing is Meyer came across looking like a total douche.

[CaneSawMassacre]

DS at the 6:19 mark drops back into a zone, everybody else is playing man, Darry's running back is open in the flats and Brandon jumps that route trying to account for DS's mistake... Then Brandon Harris' guy is open for a first down.

[CaneSawMassacre]

I don't understand it #50 is the only one running away from a man.... Everybody is budding up, and locking up with their man. He is dropping like he doesn't have anybody.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

He's a douche who's the most successful coach in football during his time as the head coach pb. I'd take him running the Hurricanes any day, but for the long run stick with Shannon since Urban's going to the NFL sooner rather than later.

[DZ8]

Posted by: miamimike01 | November 04, 2009 at 11:39 PM

So glad I learned to cut and paste...lol

[phillyscott]

It does seem to me that RS is willing to take chances at some positions, but absolutely will NOT at LB....well, cook and sharpton is taking chances, but I would take sharpton over cook....If you say no, then that means sam shields is the second best corner we have? I dont think so....Like I have said many times, you dont know what you have, until he gets some meaningful PT. That chance was at FAMU, and he got in last 3 plays...
I give the guy major credit for staying around, when he could probably roll tomorrow, and play at Tenn with his brother.
Another thing I have issue is, is that FL are so much better than non-florida...if you can ball, you can ball....Cooper came from TN, and is better than JJ...Coop has missed what, 2 games in 3 years, and JJ has missed most of 2 seasons, and part of this one....Coop blocks, runs,catches and returns better than JJ...where you are from doesnt mean crap, either you can ball, or you cant.....some areas have more talent as a WHOLE than other areas, that I will agree on, and south florida as a WHOLE has an over abundance

[DZ8]

Point being watch the Early Enrollees... they always seem to do something THAT year.

Somewhere that big loveable mellon head has me saying Jamal Reid WILL make an impact THIS year. I'm being quiet... don't make any noise miamimike01...be quiet...

[orange 'n green in the vein]

CaneSaw, LB play this year has been abysmal since Spence got nicked and targeted by the opposition. McCarthy misses a 1/3 of the tackles he makes, Sharpton brings the pain but rarely gets there to do so, Robinson looks good in pads but hasn't shown he's got it yet, Brown, is he even on the team anymore? Losing Futch really hurt in hindsight, he looked like he was a good one from day one as a freshman. I could have lived with a healthy Spence, Futch coming into his own and McCarthy lost in pass defense as the first unit this year, maybe next year instead?

[JCane]

A storied and frequent state champion like Pahokee doing something so unnecessary and risking so much. What? Do they think they're Corch Urban playing Teboy and risking his health when games are out of reach?

It will be interesting to see what goes down with J. Shaw during his 12/11 visit to Coral Gables. I have a feeling we could be slightly interested in a tall cb....

[86Cane]

The best part of the whole Spikes thing is Meyer came across looking like a total douche.

Posted by: pb(CSROH10) | November 04, 2009 at 11:41 PM

He does that very well, but the guy can also recruit and coach like OGV said.

[pb(CSROH10)]

Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | November 04, 2009 at 11:43 PM

I would never, ever, ever want that dirt bag running this program.

Mark my words, within the next 36 months his program will implode like Erickson's did here.

He is a total scumbag who would step on his mother's throat if it would help him look good.

[DZ8]

Meyer will NOT be a Good NFL coach. Vault that ish...

[86Cane]

some areas have more talent as a WHOLE than other areas, that I will agree on, and south florida as a WHOLE has an over abundance

Posted by: phillyscott | November 04, 2009 at 11:47 PM

Philly...U going to any games? UNC?

[DZ8]

I get the coach from Cincinnatti if I'm Dan Snyder. 4-5year plan they'll be all right.

[phillyscott]

have to agree PB, there will be a scandal in Gatorville, and Knoxville before it's all said and done....well, ANOTHER scandal, one they wont be able to avoid

[CaneSawMassacre]

How did the holding call against Sharpton get tacked on after the scramble by Riley Skinner with 2:32 in the 1st??

Defensive holding means Darryl Sharpton was holding a WR or RB from their route right? Shouldn't the ref have had to have Wake choose between a 1st and 5 or the gain they recieved. The yardage was tacked on after the QB scrambled for 20 yards. I must be wrong on the rule here right?

[DZ8]

Not Marvin Lewis... great guy... I myself(DZ8) had a few beers with him. But the Bearcats is what I'm talkin' about.

[86Cane]

Damn Yankees...

[DZ8]

My dad is happy... as a yankees fan.

[phillyscott]

doesnt look like it 86....im expanding my biz, opening up 2 more beer stores, 1 at NJ shore (any of you that visit wildwood,nj let me know, will put you on discount list!), so i am swamped here....
Next year, number 1 son will be a college graduate in accounting, and dad will be semi-retired, and attending ALL games in the RV....

[CaneSawMassacre]

Then the fact that that the refs didn't at least review the catch, which was clearly being bobbled on his legs...

I mean that is some garbage, a big difference maker.

HOW IS THAT NOT REVIEWED..

THE OFFICIATING WAS OFFICIALLLY HORRIBLE AFTER THE 1st quarter alone.

[DZ8]

86 do you have a preview set up(solar). Can I do a mid season report?

[Daytoncane]

guys no need in continuing to complain about the defense. at this point, it is what it is.

the offense is going to have to carry this team for the rest of the season. all those great WRs are gonna have to show how great they are now.

[phillyscott]

Phillies should have started Happ instead of Pedro....
All good, Phillies have put some bucks in my pocket last 2 years....now time for E-A-G-L-E-S to make a run.....

[DZ8]

CSM
Its over.

phillyscott
Weren;t U the one talking about Savage and how "I got this!" (not that he'd be playing right now but just wanted to konw if you were the same guy)

[_HM_]

http://herbalminded.blogspot.com/2009/11/darryl-sharpton-60235-vs-aurtur-brown.html

A. Brown vs D. Sharpton

exclusive video breakdown

[phillyscott]

OL, IMO...Figs and Pipho need some bench time, 55 and 72 in place...or Gunn...seems like his PT has slipped...he hurt too?

Daytoncane, I have come to that realization myself....but SOMEBODY need to be in mddle of field to light up these crossing routes....one guy gets laid out, next guy will be looking before he tries to catch...WF, nobody was even close to them..

[CaneSawMassacre]

2: 02 Mark Jacory makes a good throw after Pipho wiffed on a blitz pick-up..... Whew!

[miamimike01]

Canespace After Dark in full force...

cut and paste rocks.

BTW, Kevin and Devont'a are enrolling in June.

No comment, 86?

DZ8 and JSQ, my nominations.