The Short List: Week 4

As the first month of the 2012 season winds its way down, there remain only 57 teams left in contention on the Shortlist to South Beach and they list as grouped by conference affiliation as follows:

LSU, Alabama, Mississippi State, Texas A&M, Mississippi, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Missouri, Wisconsin, Ohio State, Illinois, Purdue, Nebraska, Michigan, Michigan State, Iowa, Northwestern, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Texas, Oklahoma State, West Virginia, TCU, Kansas State, Texas Tech, Baylor, Iowa State, Florida State, Clemson, NC State, Maryland, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, Virginia, Miami, Duke, Southern Cal, UCLA, Arizona, Arizona State, Oregon, Stanford, Oregon State, Washington, USF, Louisville, Rutgers, Cincinnati, Connecticut, Temple, Notre Dame, Ohio, Louisiana Tech and UTSA.

A single team won a game last week that I predicted them to fall from the Shortlist by losing.  Can you guess who it could have possibly been?

1) Well, it's late September, which as all long time Shortlist readers here on Canespace know means it's time for me to start mentioning the myriad number of times the Connecticut Huskies will defy my predictions for their elimination in any given season.  This year we get to start by examining their narrow road win in Maryland against their old coach last week by a score of 24-21 as I can only shake my head is resignation that I just need to stop predicting them to ever lose any game ever.  Barring that, maybe a move back down to FCS play would do the trick as well for me so I can stop being shown up by this team that should instead be wondering how long until Midnight Madness is it now?

A trio of teams fell in one score games that lead to them being taken off the Shortlist in 2012 a fortnight from October, they are:

1) Kentucky waits a whole week to hit the non automatic qualifier letdown switch in the locker-room as they lose in overtime at home to Western Kentucky 32-31.  Just like that Joker Phillips looks to be performing for a completely different court at the end of the year as his team is back on track to suffer their third loosing season in a row.  How long until Midnight Madness is it now?

2) Indiana falls for the third time in a row to Ball State 41-39 in Bloomington.  Kevin Wilson has already doubled last years win total though so this can still be considered progress for the Hoosier football team.  How long until Midnight Madness is it now?

3) Boston College still can't win in Evanston, Illinois as they fall once again to the Wildcats of  orthwestern 22-13.  Surprisingly Chase Rettig isn't Doug Flutie reincarnated early and didn't throw for four football fields' worth of yards, he only does that against Miami every other time he plays them, never against the Big 10.  The Eagles can't even look forward to how long until Midnight Madness is it now, so I guess that makes them the big losers this week?

I expect seven teams to find deletion from the Shortlist this week when the clock reaches zero for them: Missouri, Michigan, Maryland, Virginia, Temple and Louisiana Tech.

From the all time victories leader to the repatriated Big East all time losers, each deleted team will bring the Shortlist incrementally that much closer to the next milestone of only 25 or less teams remaining and the rankings becoming based on worthiness of national title contention resume instead of conference affiliation. 

.

No, I didn't miscount, despite only six teams listed above I left the most crucial pick this week for last when it comes to Canespace reader's awareness, as Georgia Tech and Miami play in what amounts to a Shortlist elimination game in addition to the crucial division race repercussions.  As well as Miami has played the last three years in turning back what had become a nightmare match-up for them when Chan Gailey was the head-coach in Atlanta, this year I just don't see it working out so well for the Hurricanes.  I predict another bad coaching job leads to a disappointing double digit loss to a team that could be stopped cold by some of the better college programs in the country and my final Shortlist elimination prediction this week is: Miami.

Try to enjoy the games this week and join me back here next week as hopefully I'll have a nice big helping of crow with a capital C, not Gray though, served up for me to enjoy here on the Shortlist to South Beach where we'll go through the survivors and see who overcomes and who falls by the wayside as the first month of play prepares to finish up.

Copyright 2012 by Christopher Whelpton for Canespace.com

Comments

[Zakkee]

tj? did i insult you like you just insulted me (child please!)?

I simply stated my opinion about her. Canechic was a daily blogger and staple of the collective "Legion" back in the Omar days--long before a ever saw a post from you. My point is that you can't summarize her posts, allegiance or contribution to this blog or the Cane Nation by the latter 10% of her time on these blogs. I witnessed the other 90% (and wasn't around before she left) and base my opinions on that. So who is truly more ignorant?

I don't participate in group-think and I'm not a blind-follower so your "guestimation"/summation that she offended 90% of the blog is actually the "bs" you speak of. Your whole post was projection and I don't even know you (wasn't even thinking of you when I wrote my post)...but its funny how the shoe fits. I know how to bring em out and you just exposed yourself. Your last post was facebookesqe to a tee! What woman doesn't talk about their kids a lot?

Beefing with a woman...and her memory...OJ Simpson please!

Already following me....GO CANES!!

[tjl3909]

PS-GO CANES

[tjl3909]

Canechic is the only person that I have ever called a bigger Cane fan than myself (NO ONE ELSE IS THOUGH lol!!). This unbelievable/ self-conflicting statement that I made was based on her ability to objectively discuss the team during times of prosperity and adversity.

Child please!-canchic was ignorant in many issues--used this blog as her personal facebook account-- and to let everyone know when her kids took a dump--she offended 90% of the blog with her bs--

[The Dude]

GO CANES!!

[Zakkee]

Family discusses family issues. Real/dedicated Canes or family members are available to work on or discuss issues (our losing/lack of football success). A family member that shows up to a family meeting to say that we don't know enough to find a solution or that as family we should just let things work themselves out and support the family without any question or conjecture--is not a better or more supportive family member than one who pursues a solution even though it may hurt a little. Bandwagon fans don't show up for these discussions, so participating in these Cane interventions (lol) are a clear sign that most posters care in some way. Its very difficult to post when we are losing or aren't good.

Accountability is an aspect of love and is a integral part of growth. We can't ever expect to win again, if we don't question why we are losing now.

I told my girlfriend that we may not be going to Chicago on my b-day weekend for the Notre Dame game because I'm not about to pay $500 to see us get mangled. We can be the underdogs (i actually prefer it), but this team hasn't showed me that they have a fight or desire to overachieve and lay it all out on the field. I'd pay for that hope and that chance that my Canes could make it a good competitive Saturday for me. These next two games will hopefully let me know if this is plausible---and I'm not wrong for having these expectations for my money, of these Canes or for my trip.

Canechic is the only person that I have ever called a bigger Cane fan than myself (NO ONE ELSE IS THOUGH lol!!). This unbelievable/ self-conflicting statement that I made was based on her ability to objectively discuss the team during times of prosperity and adversity. A dedicated Cane fan/family member is there with wants *needed* (not their desire, cliche or status quo).

Every family member plays a role and 86--you have played a very important one and we're extremely appreciative of you. You're that father that spoils the children no matter what--you want to please and make people happy-- a great quality indeed!

Solar--controls the climate of the blogosphere and his comments are a great example of this balance as well. He supplies Us with whats needed, not what we or he wants to hear.

"GO CANES!!" is a great post, but some people are capable of more.

GO CANES!!

[The Brown Recluse]

Guys...the Canes are not playing Alabama tomorrow, it's Georgia Tech. Colin Klein will not be there. I believe that these kids will show up tomorrow pissed off and with a lot to prove. Tech has been figured out, the whipping the Canes got in 2008 will not be repeated. We cannot allow Colin Klein to continue to live rent-free in our thoughts forever!

Now with that being said, the microscope is most definitely on D'Onofrio and his defense. If the Canes get freight trained again, Golden needs to make some decisions...and fast. In closing, I will be in section 129, cheering for the Miami Hurricanes. Woosh...woosh!

[WWIN]

If you have the will to win then you have a chance in every game. I am not saying we will win but when the ball is kicked off to start the game as a Canes fan I hope with every drop of blood in my body that we will and shall find a way to win. That is the edifference between being a follower of the team and being a fan (aka - fanatic). A Cubs fan believes in May they will win the World Series. A Canes fan should feel the same way before every game no matter the odds. Just my opinion.

Posted by: SJMPARMAN | September 21, 2012 at 10:32 PM

I may just post this comment as the next blog for the next 12 weeks! Or I may just post about Orchids. Who knows?

Posted by: 86Cane | September 21, 2012 at 11:00 PM

Great post, even though I said it first lol

[SJMPARMAN]

Butch already had in place a system for restoring the program to greatness. He had already done it once under much more difficult circumstances. He knew he could do it again. Because what ails Miami is not the talent but a plan for how you play that talent over the time you should play the kids over a four year period. That is what Al lacks he wants to play talent without any consideration of what is, in the long term, what is good for the program and these kids.

[Jiggafras]

I'm more worried about our offense against their D. Everyone talks about their offense but their D looked fast and physical everytime i've seen them, if we can't sustain drives and or score we will have a problem stopping their offense as we will just wear down. Its crazy, we have not had one single bust in pass coverage since we started beating them in 09. Hopefully we continue doing that

[SJMPARMAN]

Butch knew he was done at NC. They pride themselves on a belief they are better than others academically. He should have had their full support and didn't. He came to our media market and gave interviews that he would not have done if he was not interested in the job. Why else would he have been here following the firing of Randy Shannon? He had nothing to gain as the UNC coach by doing them so why was he here? He wanted the UM job!

[SJMPARMAN]

You are right raize for 2 reasons. Number one, if I see us out of position consistently against GT as we were against KSU, I may be the one leading the blog about making the Defensive Coordinator change now rather than later, LOL. But I want to give the coordinator the benefit of the doubt considering he limited GT to 134 rushing yards last year.

Second, if the offense doesn't produce, and I know Canes fans don't understand it but it is a difficult thing to do on the road, this could get ugly on here. I just don't think that will happen, one or the other will produce, that is the Miami way.

I think Golden knows all of the above. He knows he has to show a product that resembles the Miami brand as he likes to call it. I think we will see it tomorrow. Let's see.

[TonyCane]

Tomorrow Duke Johnson rushes for 5TDS and Morris throws for another 4.

D'No stuns (and fumigates) the Yellow Jackets offense by inserting Sentreal Henderson into the defensive line. Multiple Georgia Tech running backs disappear into the gravity well of the DL and are never seen again.

Down 63-7, Georgia Tech resorts to something it is little prepared to do. Pass the ball. All two of the wide receivers on their roster are employed....to little effect. Faced with certain defeat, their coach orders the QB to kneel down on every down during the last 6 minutes of the game.

That is how I go to bed tonight, dreaming of the victory to come tomorrow.

[TonyCane]

SJMPARMAN, I'm not sure how true that it was that Butch Davis let it be known that he wanted his Miami job back after Shannon left. First, he was still HC at North Carolina in Dec 2010 and was still seven months away from leaving the Tarheels. Having brought North Carolina to a level where they had its most potent roster ever (before all the suspensions took place in summer 2011), why would Butch leave for a rival ACC school?

And why would UM, knowing that the Shapiro allegations were out there (reported on by the Sun Sentinel in the fall of 2010) replace Shannon with a coach that was being investigated himself in Dec 2010?

Not saying it didn't happen, but seems a bit of a stretch.

[raizecane]

This blog should be fun to read tomorrow, lol.

[SJMPARMAN]

I am done for the night guys. Keep your head up, think positive thoughts and, yes pray for your Canes tomorrow. They face a daunting task tomorrow. But if you believe in them maybe they will believe in themselves, and deliver us a welocme surprise this time tomorrow.

I like these kids. They are fighters not quitters. They will give us all they got. If they win tomorrow, may we party until midnight Saturday night. If they lose tomorrow, lets party tomorrow night anyway because we are Hurricane fans and we love our team win, lose or draw. Let's not get into being analysts every game, disecting every play but remember we are FANS. You are either for the U or against. No one else can understand that loyalty. Let's stay together as fans and as fellow blog members. Go CANES!!!

[orange 'n green in the vein]

Posted by: SJMPARMAN | September 22, 2012 at 12:28 AM

Pretty much all THIS but also, the other key to stopping the option, you must hold at least one rush a set of downs to two yards or less to get them off schedule. Third and three or four is too easy for them to consistently convert and anything less than that is virtually automatic for this offense.

[SJMPARMAN]

Butch is a squeaky clean guy as anyone who followed him when he was here knows. The problem for Butch is that Miami alumni couldn't accept that a guy would leave their program for the NFL, and they cling to their disappointment over it. After Randy was fired, Butch came to Miami and essentially made his willingness to coach this team known before Miami hired Golden. But when you are left at the altar, so to speak, the boosters turned on him and their influence in Miami football prevented him from being rehired.

I hope Golden succeeds in the next year or two. I think he will. The only weakness on the team, in my opinion, is on the defensive side of the ball. But Butch isn't going to be somebody's college defensive coordinator.

If Golden doesn't fix that side of the ball by late in year three, where the defense is not just embarassing but dominant again, the AD will step in and demand a new coordinator. By year 4, Golden will have to have a decent coordinator or he will be done. I just don't think we will ever get to that point because Al is a smart guy. If D'Nofrio doesn't have what looks to him like a good defense by the end of the year, he won't wait until the AD steps in. He will do it himself.

[Alberto]

We make all teams we play look like NC contenders. All I think while watching them run all over our efense is...wtf are we waiting to get a real coach who can hire great assistants. Bring the beatch back. Did anybody read espn news he did not have anything to do with UNC sanctions. His full phone records did not reveal any wrong doing.

[SJMPARMAN]

He had a great game plan last year, and players who executed it well. Defending the option is not rocket science. You stop the dive (Ojomo and the plug did great last year), hit the quarterback whenever he comes down the line, the corner has to get off the block of the reciever and turn the play inside, and the middle linebacker and safeties have to flow to the ball (Spence was all world last year in pursuit on plays not even on his side of the field). Miami has the speed to do that.

My biggest concern is stopping the inside run first. That dictates to them what we will allow them to do. It starts and ends there.

Thanks for being there tomorrow. The team needs you. I know these kids will fight hard to get the job done and will appreciate your support. I started off thinking this was a sure loss for us but I have reevaluated it as the week has gone on. GT is way overconfident. I have herad their fans talking about laying up 50 on us. That aint gonna happen.

The offense will produce this week. I see a nail biter, something in the middle twenties range for each team. I really like our special teams edge over them. I won't predict a score but I would not be surprised if this turned out 28-27 for either team. I just hope we have the 28.

[The Dude]

Man, GTech break a TON of tackles.

[The Brown Recluse]

Will be at Bobby Dodd for the showdown tomorrow. The weather will be perfect, and the Canes will be supported well by the Cane Nation! D'Onofrio better have an awesome gameplan...

[SJMPARMAN]

I think VT is starting. 5 guys who lined up defensively last year against GT will start in this game - Chickillo, the plug, Gaines, VT and McGee. If Perryman and Buchannon had not been hurt, we would have had 7 or 11 guys starting who have plenty of game experience.

Eddie Johnson is a physical guy and I think he will play well tomorrow. I am a little concerned about weakside linebacker where we lack experience. Brandon McGee is a solid player this year especially against the run. The interesting battle will be whether the other corner either Finnie or Howard, can get off their blocks and keep contain on the outside.

[The Dude]

Is VT7 starting?

[orange 'n green in the vein]

So GT's going to win because they can't win the division if they lose and because they haven't won in three years?

Take the points.

[The Dude]

http://www.hurricanesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=28700&ATCLID=205687728

What a difference a year makes.

[The Dude]

http://www.hurricanesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=658365&SPID=103763&DB_OEM_ID=28700&ATCLID=205689539

Behind Enemy Lines? What the? Wasnt this a Canespace deal?

[calGaryCane]

CanesSpace...For the FANS by the FANS :)

[solarcane]

A GT Fans view from the other side

Josh D. Weiss-

I want to take a look at these two teams, who seem to be going in different directions and have quite a history in recent years, and talk a little bit about what this weekend's game means for each. I'll start with Miami.

For Miami, this weekend is all about getting their season back on track. Yes, they're 1-0 in the ACC after an opening-weekend win over Boston College, but they followed that up by being absolutely thrashed in Manhattan against K-State, a loss which didn't really feel much better after defeating Bethune-Cookman 38-10. A win in this game would be huge for their confidence going forward in the season and would actually put them in the thick of the race for the ACC Coastal Division. This team is young with an awful lot of raw talent that Al Golden is yet to really figure out how to make the most of, and it would go a long way for their confidence to pull off the huge upset in Atlanta.

But they won't pull off the upset, because this game is much more important on the other sideline.

It's more important for Georgia Tech for two reasons.

1. If we're going to lose another conference game, this can't be it. We left Blacksburg after nearly pulling a huge upset, and then watched them absolutely shit the bed against Pitt last weekend. That team rose to an occasion that they may not be able to rise to again if called on later this season. Yes, they need to lose two conference games for us to have a shot at the Coastal Division title, but with Clemson and Florida State still on their schedule, this thing's far from over. After this game, our toughest conference opponent left is Clemson -- and even that game isn't looking as daunting as it was a month ago given the struggles that their defense has had. This team knows that it's still got a division title well within reach, and that Miami is not the team that should take that away from us.

2. History. Remember last week, when we absolutely took it to a team that beat us last year even when they likely shouldn't have? Well, consider this. My senior year of high school, my dad brought me down to the Flats on a cold Thursday night, where we absolutely ran circles around the Miami defense. It was incredible to watch as the undisciplined Miami defense didn't ever know where the ball was going, and we hit big play after big play. Why is this relevant? This was the last time we beat Miami. There are two teams that we've played and lost to every year of my time at Georgia Tech, and this is one of them (I'm sure you can guess the other). In 2009, we went to Coral Gables to play our third game in 12 days, and second Thursday nighter in a row after a nailbiting win against Clemson. We were obviously tired and generally looked like we were playing in slow motion. In 2010, we weren't very good and got lit up by a score of 35-10. Last year, we were coming off of a big let down in Charlottesville, and couldn't get it together in Coral Gables, looking sloppy in general and losing a second straight game. Long story short, we whipped Virginia last week after they won last year...it's time to whip Miami

[CaneRock]

When canechic continuously pointed out the then current Canes we selfish, immature, and not as concerned as the fans about winning you eventually axed her for being a debbie downer.
Two seasons later it appears she had some valid points.

Posted by: solarcane | September 21, 2012 at 09:52 PM

While me and CC used to go at it about the state of the program, you may be right, She might have known more about what was going on behind the scenes, than we wanted to believe.

But at the same time, looking at the lack of leadership that we had, and with Miami being what it is, should we be surprised...

[SJMPARMAN]

Solar that is my fear too. But if those 5 kickoffs are after 4 field goals and a touchdown we would still have a chance. It is a huge challenge though, no doubt but why not? Except for when GT had Tashard Choice (NFL talent) we have fared pretty well against the option. The onus is on them to prove they can beat us and not the other way around.

If we catch a break or two early they might think here we go again. Footballs are not round, they are oblong. They take funky bounces sometimes. I say we get a few of those tomorrow and maybe pull an upset.

[Ohio_Cane]

UL-Monroe up 35-34 on the RGIII-less Baylor with 10:45 to go. Good game to watch. ESPN

[SJMPARMAN]

The Duke is the real deal. You can't real game plan for him. He coulda and woulda scored 2 TDs against KSU but he had an off day. I think that will be the exception and not the rule.

Some guys just have it. It is like kicking to Devin Hester. Every team has a game plan for it but the guy is just so good at what he does that it does not matter. And Duke at his age is light years better than what Devin Hester was as a football player when he first came to Miami.

[86Cane]

If you have the will to win then you have a chance in every game. I am not saying we will win but when the ball is kicked off to start the game as a Canes fan I hope with every drop of blood in my body that we will and shall find a way to win. That is the edifference between being a follower of the team and being a fan (aka - fanatic). A Cubs fan believes in May they will win the World Series. A Canes fan should feel the same way before every game no matter the odds. Just my opinion.

Posted by: SJMPARMAN | September 21, 2012 at 10:32 PM

I may just post this comment as the next blog for the next 12 weeks! Or I may just post about Orchids. Who knows?

[solarcane]

sjmp
I agree on Duke having great success on kick off returns.
Even if he doesn't score he will give us field position.
Hopefully GT isn't kicking off more than 5 times

[CaneRock]

I think Jelani Hamilton is due for a breakout game tomorrow, that kid looks studly.

Who ya'll got...

[orange 'n green in the vein]

I'm pretty sure Duke is getting game-planned for this week and every other week the rest of the way. If he can sustain this start though with that being the case as a freshman, man, look out Ottis Anderson rushing records.

[Ohio_Cane]

For all the basketball fans: Davon Reed committed to UM and Coach L tonight!

[SJMPARMAN]

I think Duke will house the opening kick if they kick it to him. If not, I believe he will score the first TD. I think it will be a pass play like the ones he was open on at KSU but didn't pull in the ball. I also expect a better defensive performance this week. Not a shutout but limiting GT to less than 200 yards rushing. I am more concerned about the pass defense because Tevin Washington throws a decent deep ball and if the youngsters nap on the pass playing option runs he could hurt them.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

No, but after four weeks, they're due I figure. Plus I like what Kehoe's fielded to this point, it hasn't been perfect but it's been a lot better than than the experience on the field together suggested you should expect also.

[solarcane]

OGV has GT given up a rushing TD yet this season?

[SJMPARMAN]

Look, I have definite concerns about what we have seen this year on the defensive side of the ball but I also 100% believe Al Golden was the right man for the job and he deserves our 100% support for a full recruiting class. We are not going to be ACC champs this year since we did lose the senior leadership to the NFL.

I do believe it is wrong to play all the freshman because after three years of putting in so much time and effort required to be a starter at a program at Miami they burn out on college ball. But Al Golden didn't play all those guys as freshmen Randy Shannon did. I do think Al has pushed alot of these new recruits to play too early. But if sanctions hit hard then maybe it was the right decision. I don't know.

But I trully think we all need to support Al for 4 years. I think the offense is good and the special teams are improved since he took over. I think it fair to question the defensive coordinator because the numbers have been so bad. I didn't expect it to be a great defense but I didn't expect what we have seen so far. But Al is no dummy, friend or not, if D'Nofrio does not make steady progress throughout the year, I think he will cut him loose. I really do.

This game tomorrow looks like it could be a tough one. But how many times have we faced teams over the years when it looked bleak and we won? It is Canes pride to come back and do the impossible. These guys aren't the Randy kids. These kids showed incredible heart at BC. Last year's team when have folded at 14-0. There is NO doubt about it. And when they were getting pummeled at KSU they fought hard until the end. I didn't see any quit in them. And to me, that was impressive.

If you have the will to win then you have a chance in every game. I am not saying we will win but when the ball is kicked off to start the game as a Canes fan I hope with every drop of blood in my body that we will and shall find a way to win. That is the edifference between being a follower of the team and being a fan (aka - fanatic). A Cubs fan believes in May they will win the World Series. A Canes fan should feel the same way before every game no matter the odds. Just my opinion.

[solarcane]

And fyi I suck at typing on a phone

Posted by: Panamacitycane | September 21, 2012 at 10:23 PM

haaaaaa thats the spirit!!!!

[orange 'n green in the vein]

I've got Clements with the first TD. Morris to any WR would greatly improve the chance of a UM upset though because a few quick strikes will leverage all the pressure onto the triple option to break a few big runs if not completely put them off by relying on the passing game for a TD instead of grinding out the comeback with a clock that's not their friend.

[Panamacitycane]

And fyi I suck at typing on a phone

[solarcane]

soup,
You do more to support the Canes than anyone I know.
I also know from non Canes activities together negativity bums you out.
Reading my comment seems I was talking down to you and that wasn't my objective at all.
I love the people here and on a few other blogs I read that are passionate about their team, sport, city or whatever.
They say their piece and damn the torpedoes

[Panamacitycane]

All the negative stuff really is getting old...just say whats on your mond and move on..u guys are having the same atupud conversations over and over and over..we get it miami is not the greatest team..but we just need to stay positive and hope for a win every week..if you are so smart then why are you on a blog and not coaching or working for the team to help make a change? Truth is your not because you have no clue. Hell I have no clue but I admit it..I just want them to win I dont care how just win baby!!!

[The Dude]

vegascane,
I'll go with my LOF Hurns.

[86Cane]

Solar...U are right once again. I will try to reconsider, just tired of the NEGATIVE comments. I do not think anyone comes here to read:

UM WILL LOSE EVERY GAME FOR THE REST OF ALL TIME.

UM WILL NEVER WIN A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AGAIN.

So OK that's great, what next?

[solarcane]

soup with due respect,
you are letting this get way too personal IMO

When canechic continuously pointed out the then current Canes we selfish, immature, and not as concerned as the fans about winning you eventually axed her for being a debbie downer.
Two seasons later it appears she had some valid points.

To me OGV Six and Zakkee bring thought provoking comments. To drive any one of them away because Chris Freet or some other temporary Miami employee gets their feelings hurt is just tough crap for them to me.

Keep it for the fans by the fans and don't let it slide into for Chris by Tom

[vegascane]

On another note, who's the first Cane to score a TD tomorrow?

I'm thinking TD pass from Morris to Dorsett sounds about right!

[86Cane]

It's great to be a Miami Hurricane!!!

Posted by: vegascane | September 21, 2012 at 09:15 PM

INDEED! I graduated from The U in 1986 and I have always been greatful. I am forever thankful for the great accomplishments I achieved and the incredible experiences I went through at UM.

[86Cane]

WE GOT SOME CANES OVER HERE!!!

Posted by: Jack | September 21, 2012 at 09:12 PM

WOOSH, WHOOSH!!!

[86Cane]

OGV...NO COMMENT.

GO CANES, BEAT GT!!!

[orange 'n green in the vein]

86, I'm not a UM fan, I'm an alumni, subtle but import-- eh, you know the rest. LOL!

[vegascane]

All I know is that Golden could have and bolted after Shapiro's allegations came out...but instead, he showed loyalty to the program and what he believes the U can become again.

In my opinion, we should show him some loyalty ourselves...

[Jiggafras]

I believe in Golden, and i sincerely hope he gets things right. He is trying to build attributes of NT teams. I don't and wont believe in No'D until i see some actual results. Results don't mean giving up 400 yards and bragging about the fact that you won.That is not sustainable and certainly is not a result of that defense. I fear that he will sink Golden, because Golden is a loyal guy and wont give No'D the boot. Next thing fans need to stop talking about how bad of a situation Golden inherited. The shapiro mess was terrible yes but we had a decent roster, with plenty of NFL players, although underperforming ones. We are located in the most fertile recruiting ground in the country and top class academics and traditon. Not alot of new coaches go into such situations coming from Temple. Its get it done period and stop feeling sorry for yourself cause no one else does, every other team is taking their chance to embarass us. We can get up and fight or we can lie down and take it with our built in excuses. Beating GT would be a good start. Something i doubt we can do. I will be drinking very heavily tomorrow.

[vegascane]

IN GOLDEN WE TRUST!

It's great to be a Miami Hurricane!!!!!!!!!

[Jack]

WE

GOT

SOME

CANES

OVER

HERE!!!!!

[86Cane]

OGV...just so you know, I have lost all respect you as a UM fan. Just wanted to say this out loud: I am sad for you.

Even if Miami loses 51-0 tomorrow I'll be cheering for them while you mock Golden and D'no to meet your personal sadistic views.

I hope you get a chance to write up the article summarizing Miami's humilating defeat tomorrow. I am certain that will bring you GREAT pleasure.

GO CANES!!!

[vegascane]

Just brutal how big of bandwagon fans I have noticed on boards throughout the start of this season. Support The U in good times and bad, true Canes fans please stand up!

I rep this U no matter what, win, lose or draw, sanctions or no sanctions, nothing can take me away from supporting The U. That includes supporting all of the coaches, players and administration.

[tjl3909]

Rodney King

[orange 'n green in the vein]

Oh 86, it's already a rebuilding year, no need to add to the drama off the field, there's going to be plenty of it to go around the rest of the way if the division lead gets surrendered anyway.

I'll give you a real good reason why UM has a chance to cover, not to mention actually pull the outright upset, the offensive line has been playing very well on the average right out the gate this year, add in a rounding into game shape Seantrel and there's another level they can reach, combined with Golden's tutelage at the hands of Groh, he'll know the right way to exploit weakness in the 3-4 scheme to gain an advantage. Like I've said, I really think this is the most likely upset UM can pull this year so we'll see if the defense can keep everything in front of them.

[86Cane]

UMike, you're wrong. I absolutely wish I couldn't use mentions of Temple sarcastically and all it would take for that to be true is for Golden to have just once delivered on pre-season expectations in his time there instead of failing to do so ever, single, year he coached the Owls.

Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | September 21, 2012 at 08:33 PM

And with that comment, thanks to OGV, Canespace is offically CLOSED.

[86Cane]

Plus, I don't know for a FACT what happened, I know what's been tossed out there as fact, subtle but important difference.

Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | September 21, 2012 at 08:19 PM

OK, fair enough. I'll just make sure that you don't get any more "FACTS" that U may call into question. No problem there.

Subtle but important difference.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

UMike, you're wrong. I absolutely wish I couldn't use mentions of Temple sarcastically and all it would take for that to be true is for Golden to have just once delivered on pre-season expectations in his time there instead of failing to do so ever, single, year he coached the Owls.

[UMike]

I personally believe Golden has what it takes, but he was thrown into an awful situation. He had decent talent, but the kids didnt want to work, none got bigger or better over the years under RS and RS almost destroyed our lifeline...OUR BACKYARD! Oh, and then the scandal lol...The way he has recruited, the way he has build back the bonds with local coaches, the process he sticks to no matter how tough the situation all point to him being a great coach. I do not think D'No will stick around to see Golden's success, and if he does, that will be Golden's downfall, not that he isnt capable. I know OGV likes to use Temple in a sarcastic way, but it is the only place he was a head coach and he worked miracles...in time. We all want the 2001 Canes back, this wasnt Coker being handed a title team, this was Golden being handed a mess.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

Yes, Golden's fault for failing to reach them, it's not a fatal failure of my opinion of him as a coach but if he had been better at engaging the players, he could have reaped rewards, instead, it's back to building from scratch with a marginal game day coach. Plus, I don't know for a FACT what happened, I know what's been tossed out there as fact, subtle but important difference.

Besides, the whole, who could have been on the roster game is completely irrelevant to the actual situation at hand and Golden's performance to date, guys left, guys signed to replace them, guys that signed to replace them left because guys are being recruited to sign to replace them, the circle of college football life man, nothing new or unique to it. Meanwhile, however, UM is playing Saturday for first place in their division! If Al can't focus the team to capitalize on an opportunity like that, then he's got a lot bigger problems than not changing the upperclassmen's minds on early entries.

[The Dude]

Oh, I see, lol. See, you do crack me up.

Its rough these days, winning cures all.

[86Cane]

Dude...U are cool, I was just askin what was FAIR? LOL

When was Canespace a peprallly?

When it became a slaughterhouse.

[The Dude]

Posted by: 86Cane | September 21, 2012 at 08:05 PM

I dont hope they lose. I've never even insinuated that. I do question whether or not Golden has what it takes. Since when was Canespace a pep rally 86?

[Account Deleted]

unless we completely collapse AG is good for this year no matter what the w's are. Not so sure No'D is though.

Next year I'd agree with 86, he needs 7+ to get a new deal. After that 8+ should be the norm for a college coach to stick around.

Of course the more +'s, the more losses people will accept.

Do I think we can get to 7+ next year??

To early to tell, we'll know by game 8 or 9 if we're on the way up. It would be pretty tough to turn 4-8 into 8-4 in just a year..

[86Cane]

At this point 86, almost anything is fair to question.

Posted by: The Dude | September 21, 2012 at 07:59 PM

OK, since anything is FAIR how about this:

1. Why do you bother being a Canes fan if you are hoping they lose and then fire Golden? U think that helps?

2. Can U stop being a Canes fan NOW?

3. What if I said PLEASE?

[The Dude]

Posted by: 86Cane | September 21, 2012 at 08:02 PM

Ha ha ha ha! 86, you crack me up. I'm sending you an email.

[UMike]

OGV..in no way were those guys leaving on Golden lol

The Dude,..I hear you, I wouldnt be happy with 5 wins and this D. I know there young, but there is talent there

[86Cane]

OGV...U make me SICK. U know exactly why those guys left for a FACT!

Dude...U ain't got the foggiest friggin clue what went on.

Why the hell are U trying to make my life so difficult and this blog so NEGATIVE?

[86Cane]

Team unity from guys who don't want to work out or become better?

Team unity from guys who don't care about their teammates or the team?

Team unity from slackers and corner cutters who have nothing to give?

Team Unity from guys who are dancing on the sideline or throwing snowballs while losing 40-3?

Golden's fault? Just stop! Your delusions has reached epic proportions.

[The Dude]

Posted by: 86Cane | September 21, 2012 at 07:53 PM

I think it is fair to ask why Golden wasnt able to re-recruit some of those kids into staying. Its not totally on Golden, the agents are certainly more to blame. I just wonder if an actual homerun had been hit on the hire, would some of those kids made different choices? At this point 86, almost anything is fair to question.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

86, I never said I expected him to keep those guys either, it was an uphill battle once 2011 turned to warmed over turd-cicle record wise that those guys where checking out, but if the coach can't keep his players from doing things that alienate them from their own program mentally to the point of them surrendering their eligibility then who's to blame for that team mentality that's lacking? Golden is being paid to foster and build that, so far, there's still cracks in the foundation. It's a fair criticism of a coach who's one game over .500 at UM with two wins versus BCC to this point and who saw his probable division favorite go to rebuilding due to roster defections.

[86Cane]

UMike, those defections are on Golden as a failure to create team unity and good roster management.

Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | September 21, 2012 at 07:47 PM

Are U purposely TRYING to be a total and complete idiot or are you ignorantly or accidentally assuming the position?

[The Dude]

Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | September 21, 2012 at 07:47 PM

I was gonna make that point also but you beat me to it.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

UMike, those defections are on Golden as a failure to create team unity and good roster management, so that psyche degree of his might need a little grade examination by some enterprising fans to see if he really knows how to apply it properly instead of just assuming he knows how to do so with ensuing divergent results from those he intended constantly making people mention who could have been on the team as a crutch for his record staying below .500%.

[The Dude]

Posted by: UMike | September 21, 2012 at 07:38 PM

I hear you UMike. You are describing a different football team. But Golden doesnt have that whether its his fault or not. The good news for him is that The U is probably more calm than the fan base. But I ask you this. At the end of the year, would UMike be satisfied with a 5 win season where the D looks as PATHETIC as it has? I'm really just trying to figure where everyone is at rather than trying to say what is right or not.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

Why does everybody keep hoping I'm wrong, go back and reread this post;

"Kirby Holcutt failed to deliver on his joke of presser to start this whole carousel off onto its course. Hope he likes the guillotine he's got his neck resting on now. Paterno is only year to year at this point after all.

Let's hope Special-K's employee is better at delivering than his boss was because unlike last coaching change, this isn't in any way a rebuild situation unless the exodus out the door turns into a flood, which it still always has the possibility to become.

Then again, there's no guarantee this guy doesn't just start playing his own recruits in 2011 since coaches like them best and Golden's best Miami team has virtually no shot of showing up until 2013 at the earliest. Anybody impressed with who he beat in the MAC needs to go research just which teams fell to them and then let me know how impressed you remain. The guy's signature win is barely the one he logged over UConn this year, simply because of the opponent's bowl destination more than anything else.

The math still doesn't add up to this being a great, much less even good or a smart move, yet. Gary Patterson will probably play for a national title out of the Big East before Al Golden does out of the ACC. This is more aptly likened to a single back up the middle that just squeezes through the diving middle infield.

Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | December 13, 2010 at 12:42 AM"

2013 at the earliest? Oh, that would be next year wouldn't it? On the other hand, Patterson won't be coming out of the Big East with Shannon as his LB coach for a national title shot anytime soon either.

[UMike]

Lets not forget what Golden SHOULD of had this year..a veteran team with talented freshman sprinkled in..imagine Miller AND Duke in the backfield and James as a FB..add Streeter to Dorsett and Lewis, add a healthy Forston to the DT rotation and Vernon opposite Chick and we look a lot different.

[The Dude]

Dont think so huh? You think if the defense keeps this up and we only win 5, they force him to fire Simple Mark?

[86Cane]

Dude...Golden ain't going ANYWHERE until after year four. If after year four we are not competing for an ACC title then UM will assess at that time and decide.

[The Dude]

Anyone think if we only win 4 games Golden is gone after the season? Or will The U make all kinds of excuses for him?

[The Dude]

86,
I will just barely give him a pass at six this year and Golden will be taking advantage of me too because I love the Canes. Also it so danf important to get another bowl ban this year, which I think is the right thing to do. I swear at 5 wins this year, we can kick him to the curb, deuces Golden and dont let the door hit you on the way out! Take your buddy with you! Next year he will have to show a whole lot of something if he doesnt win 8 or 9 games. I think 8 gives him 1 LAST chance in 2014.

[UMike]

Got my tix and parking pass..we in biznizz!

[86Cane]

Dude...For me the number is 7 wins this year and 9 wins next year and 11 wins in 2014.

I guess most would take 6 wins, 8 wins and then 10 wins and an ACC title in year four, yes?

[The Dude]

Okay SOUP,
lets flash a little foward to next year. How many wins is good enough for Golden next year? Keep in mind. Gators in Miami, FSU in Tallahassee, V Tech in Blacksburg. Anyone know when Clemson rolls back on our schedule? Whats the must win number for 2013? It may have to do alot with how we look rather than results, but I'm gonna say its probably 8 or 9.

[Tsully76]

86 man I agree with you and share your sentiments. I hope we are right and OGV is wrong on Golden and Golden leads us back to the promise land.

[86Cane]

Alabama is a 51 point favorite ova FAU.

Louisville is a 13 point favorite ova FIU.

[86Cane]

Zilla...is that what SHE said? LOL

[canezilla]

ITS BEEN A 14 POINT SPREAD SINCE MONDAY!!!

[86Cane]

I just saw that FSU is a 14 point favorite over Clemson and Oklahoma is a 15 point favorite over KSU. REALLY?

So if KSU beat us 52-13 and they are 15 point 'dogs to OU then...OK, never mind, scratch that thought.

[86Cane]

Lol 86 with the Dick Cheney duck hunting reference.

Posted by: Tsully76 | September 21, 2012 at 03:31 PM

Dude I was SERIOUS! No way I can take three more years of this. I mean I will always be a UM fan and still buy season tickets and go to games but this blog will become to painful to endure if Golden fails.

SO THEN IT FOLLOWS THAT GOLDEN CANNOT FAIL!

Even if the only good reason for him to succeed is simply to prove OGV wrong about Golden and D'No and Temple. Because if I am wrong about Golden and OGV is right then I and this entire blog is toast.

I would donate to UM today if it meant that the Hurricanes would win tomorrow. Oh and the next week too. And the week after that, and against FSU and VT too.

JUST WIN BABY!!!

[BLH]

Of course they have to honor it. Hassan has it right. Not only that, it's just the right thing to do. It would have been dead wrong to kick him to the curb. You don't get props for doing what you're supposed to do.

[Ohio_Cane]

Wasn't aware they HAD TO honor it, PR nightmare or not. My bad.

[BLH]

86, gotcha. Still, UM didn't have to honor the 'ship

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | September 21, 2012 at 03:21 PM

Actually, yes they did. He was enrolled, on campus, and practicing. Not only that, even if they didn't honor it, it would have been a PR nightmare. I love the u, but lets keep it real