I know Harbs isn't happy with this year's games except the outcome in the Citrus Bowl.
Jim's probably never happy with much. I have a feeling he screamed at his kids for losing at Candyland.
What happened to back and forth games or defensive struggles? Where is the pride in some of these teams, players and coaches? Why are there no games on Christmas Day?
My guesses to the poor play.
1. Too many bowl games. Making the post-season is not special any longer. A bowl used to be a reward for a very good season. Now you have Missouri, at 5-7, saying "Thanks, but no thanks."
2. Sticking with a game plan. Look at Michigan State and Iowa. It appeared they were unwilling or unable to change mid-course in game. The Spartans and Hawkeyes needed to abandon their run games and go to some sort of spread or hurry up style of offense. For MSU, it was because they couldn't run on Alabama. For Iowa, they got down too far too fast.
3. The X-Factor. The inability to know what some players are going to do when they're blowing off steam in the week leading up to the games, especially the New Year's Eve and New Year's Day games. Those players, just having finished finals and a 12-game season, are at the bowl city about a week before the game. These are young guys who want to have fun. Some of these cities are known for nightlife.
Look at TCU - their star quarterback Trevone Boykin was drinking at a Pat O'Brien's in San Antonio around midnight. Things got out of hand and he takes a swing at a cop. After a short stay at a San Antonio police precinct, he was excused from playing in this game. This isn't a lone instance - guys are out to have a good time, most just don't end with hitting a police officer and a night in jail. Partying doesn't often equal quality play.
Four more games today - including TCU. If you do a bowl pool, make sure you've switched your pick to Oregon. The Horned Frogs are not only without Boykin. Their best wide receiver is hurt too.
No comments:
Post a Comment