Sophomore quarterback Cameron Newton hasnt been named second-string quarterback yet, but he could play a huge role in the offense this season.

With Meyer wanting to see Tebow throw more and carry less, he said theres a chance that Newton could see a lot of action this season as the single-wing back instead of Tebow at times.

ll tell you the one thing Camerons doing is running the football really well, Meyer said. I wouldnt be surprised to see him do that (in games). I think he gives us that element because I think hes a very functional runner and hes very tight with the ball right now.

The idea is to use Newton in running situations as opposed to Tebow to limit the number of hits Tebow takes during games.

Kicking battle

One of the forgotten battles at UFs camp is the battle for No. 1 place-kicker.

Freshman Caleb Sturgis came in the favorite, but senior Jonathan Phillips isnt making it easy.

We got a good battle, Meyer said. Jonathan Phillips is not giving that thing up. He got accepted to Miami Law School and we had a long discussion and he came back because he wanted a chance to kick at Florida. Hes not done a darn thing yet, but his whole approach to the game has been very impressive. accuracy has been an issue since arriving this spring, but he turned things up during UFs spring game when he knocked one through from 60 yards setting a spring-game record.

I made a comment that when his foot hits the ball it sounds different from most other kickers, Meyer said of Sturgis. He hits bombs, but hes also go to split the uprights with them. Theres a great battle going on over there.

Meyer excited about special teams

UF ranked seventh nationally and first in the Southeastern Conference in punt returns last season with an average of 15.08 yards per return with two touchdowns and Meyer hopes to increase those numbers.

To do so, Meyer is looking to find more weapons to put on the field.

re really going to work hard on that, Meyer said. The good thing is Brandon James is dynamic and theres a couple guys right behind him. Joe Haden, I watch him catch those punts and hes going to be a punt returner. We got Joe Haden, we got (Chris) Rainey, (Louis) Murphys back there catching punts. Weve got some guys. I remember my first year we had Vernell (Brown) and me. It wasnt a good deal.

Running backs to catch more

Running backs coach Kenny Carter said Thursday that hes hoping to get more production out of his running backs in the passing game by using more dump off passes if the rest of the field doesnt open up.

If its not down the field, then you get available underneath, Carter said. And if theyre putting their man-to-man against you and theyre trying to match you up then you create separation and you go and you get open. Were (an) offense thats based on matchups.

Meyer said the dump offs make up the part of UFs passing game. All that he asks is that his runners make some guys miss once they get the ball.

Our running backs are very productive right now, he said. Having a productive running back that can catch the ball and run a route (helps the offense). The reason you havent see them in there is because they werent productive and they didnt do their stuff the right way. Our guys are doing a good job with them.

Two tight ends still possible

Even with the loss of Cornelius Ingram (ACL) for the season UF will still look to fifth-year senior Tate Casey and sophomore Aaron Hernandez to be productive on the field together.

s still there, tight ends coach John Hevesy said of still using a two tight end set. The things you get with Tate being that second tight end compared to a CI, youre dealing with a little bit of a speed difference. In terms of blocking and everything else and assignments, everythings still there.

Etc.

Meyer said junior receiver Percy Harvin didnt participate in contact drills, but did do some conditioning during practice. He is still unsure of his return. Freshmen defensive linemen Omar Hunter (back) and Matt Patchan (peck) were held out of team drills again, but did work out individually and Meyer said they are starting to look healthier. Redshirt senior offensive lineman Jim Tartt (shoulder) went through individual drills and Meyer expects him back healthy in a week. Redshirt senior offensive lineman Phil Trautwein (shoulder) was limited because Meyer and his staff are being extra cautious, but Meyer said his injury is minor.

Similar posts: football playoffs

Both Clintonville teams start the gridiron action this Friday The Watterson Eagles visit Columbus South while Whetstone visits Columbus Briggs.

Watterson comes off a down year where they did not make the playoffs for the first time since 1998 . The Eagles also lost to their main rival, St. Francis DeSales for the first time in 10 games . This years Watterson -DeSales Games will be held at Crew Stadium, which holds over 18,000 for football.

Whetstone hopes to keep the solid 6-4 record of last campaign moving forward. The Braves lost 3 games last year by a combined 15 points. Braves new coach, Jim Worden takes over for coach Todd Boyd.

Here to successful seasons for both the Eagles and Braves. Hopefully Watterson will return to the playoffs and the Braves challenge for a City League North Title

See you at the game.

Similar posts: football playoffs

(Or, pretentious reflections before another NFL season)

What draws me to football is often the story, the narrative. There are overarching narratives: the Minnesota Vikings, a long storied history, always so close to transcendent glory, but always failing in tragic and comic fashion and falling just short. It is the narrative of a quest (will they ever finally reach the goal?) but it is also a narrative of tragedy (no, they cannot). And there is the narrative of a season for each team. All the little dramas, all the conflicts, all the events and plot. A team could be successful but for one tragic flaw, one weakness, one area of the game it performs poorly at. The drama may come from the team's repeated efforts to improve on (or cover up that weakness), or it may come from the team's repeated failures because of that weakness. Each season has a narrative, each franchise has a narrative, each game has a narrative, each player has a narrative. Many of the expected narratives have already been constructed for the 2008 season. "Tarvaris Jackson is the weak link on a Super Bowl contender: can he perform?" "How will the Patriots respond to a season that included 18 straight wins but one ultimate loss?" "Will Aaron Rodgers be able to replace a beloved legend?" These are the "stories" we'll follow, and we don't know how they'll end, but we know the dramatic issues the stories will be full of. We know the theme. Mostly it is a quest narrative, and it is also a plot with explicit conflict, explicit action. Each game is a clear moment, episode, event.

And there are the characters, characters in action. They are characters we come to "know," and we know them by their works. We assess them, judge them, interpret them, psychoanalyze them, root for them, root against them, we relate to them, we empathize with them, we become frustrated with them, we are annoyed by them--in short, we do the same things we might do to characters we encounter in fiction. There are villains and there are heroes (though we know that often it is we who choose which are the villains and which are the heroes). I can't say these characters are as familiar to me as those people I know in my life. But I can say they are as familiar to me as the characters I've come to know in novels I've read and enjoyed. Just read the names, and you'll find you "know" the character too. You've assessed the character and have an opinion of the character. Bill Belichick. Brett Favre. Terrell Owens. Brad Childress. Tom Brady. Randy Moss. Adrian Peterson. When you see the name, the character comes to you. The name itself means something to you that probably can't be paraphrased or easily articulated.

Every game and every season is something of a morality play, with the characters acting, with real events, with a driving plot, leading to a conclusion. Ah, the conclusion. In life there is no real conclusion but death. But in fiction, even if the ending is ambiguous, even if the ending is a cliff-hanger, even if we do not understand the ending, even if a writer like John Fowles decides that one ending isn't quite enough and we'll have more, the book still ends. There's always a last page. The author may decide to leave characters and readers hanging in an unresolved conclusion, but you still get to put the book away when it's finished. How often in life do you get to put anything away and call it finished? And that is where football is like a novel. We know that it will end. All the complexities and open-endedness and confusions of life may play out in the chaos of the line of scrimmage or the bouncing of an odd-shaped ball. But unlike real life, the game is going to end with a winner and a loser (in rare cases, a tie). Unlike real life, each season gives us teams with a record, division winners and playoff teams and those that aren't. There's something. I know that sometime in February 2009, I'm going to see a conclusion to this mad thing called an NFL season that's about to start. The season itself is full of open roads, potentials, possibilities, mysteries--anything might happen. But in February, one team will have done what it takes throughout the madness to emerge as the Super Bowl champion, to be the winner, to have come out as the hero of the narrative. Along the way there will be fading characters, emerging characters, and scapegoats. There will be emotional highs and lows. But the game will end with a winner, and the season will end with a winner. Sure, there's still a future, still a time for hope--it's not the last book you'll ever read. But there's a finality, an ultimate meaning that the season gives us.

And so it comes upon us. Another NFL season is about to start; a new book lies waiting to be opened. I have expectations of the book. I'll open it, and get a sense of the tone, find the narrative, follow the interesting characters and pay little attention to the uninteresting, take interest in the episodes that make up the plot, see patterns and themes and meaning. I'll be moved emotionally, and I'll develop ideas. Along the way I'll talk to people who are reading the same book, find their opinions on it, argue with them about it. I'll share my interpretations and theories, and I'll listen to theirs. I'll certainly laugh and smile and cheer and dance and feel a buoying euphoria. I'll also yell and get frustrated and sad, feeling weighed down by disappointment. I might cry, but I also might learn something. I'll carry the book with me when I'm not reading it, mulling it, letting it color my worldview and shape my mood. I'll think about it and long to return to it while I'm not reading.

And for me, at least, watching football and reading books are not just a minor hobby, an entertainment to pass the time. Reading books is not only a part of my career, but it is a part of my soul: what I read changes me, teaches me, moves me, provides my religious sensibilities, my morality, my philosophies, my hopes and aspirations. And watching football is something like that, no small part of life. Football takes my intellectual and emotional energy in big clumps (not to mention my time), but it also provides something--fun, joy, energy, passion. It will affect my thoughts and feelings for much of each week.

Football is the book I don't want to put down.

And now it starts again. I'm guessing, if you're not only watching the Vikings but bothering to visit a blog in August to read about the Vikings, that football means something big to you too. I'm not alone in anticipating not just the start of a professional sports league's season, but a shift in the rhythms of life. Schedules are altered. The devotion leads to a whole different way of thinking, of acting, of being. Some deep part of us is affected. Sports are not trivial--that which inspires real passion cannot be. And here it comes.

Are you ready.

Similar posts: football playoffs

(Or, pretentious reflections before another NFL season)

What draws me to football is often the story, the narrative. There are overarching narratives: the Minnesota Vikings, a long storied history, always so close to transcendent glory, but always failing in tragic and comic fashion and falling just short. It is the narrative of a quest (will they ever finally reach the goal?) but it is also a narrative of tragedy (no, they cannot). And there is the narrative of a season for each team. All the little dramas, all the conflicts, all the events and plot. A team could be successful but for one tragic flaw, one weakness, one area of the game it performs poorly at. The drama may come from the team's repeated efforts to improve on (or cover up that weakness), or it may come from the team's repeated failures because of that weakness. Each season has a narrative, each franchise has a narrative, each game has a narrative, each player has a narrative. Many of the expected narratives have already been constructed for the 2008 season. "Tarvaris Jackson is the weak link on a Super Bowl contender: can he perform?" "How will the Patriots respond to a season that included 18 straight wins but one ultimate loss?" "Will Aaron Rodgers be able to replace a beloved legend?" These are the "stories" we'll follow, and we don't know how they'll end, but we know the dramatic issues the stories will be full of. We know the theme. Mostly it is a quest narrative, and it is also a plot with explicit conflict, explicit action. Each game is a clear moment, episode, event.

And there are the characters, characters in action. They are characters we come to "know," and we know them by their works. We assess them, judge them, interpret them, psychoanalyze them, root for them, root against them, we relate to them, we empathize with them, we become frustrated with them, we are annoyed by them--in short, we do the same things we might do to characters we encounter in fiction. There are villains and there are heroes (though we know that often it is we who choose which are the villains and which are the heroes). I can't say these characters are as familiar to me as those people I know in my life. But I can say they are as familiar to me as the characters I've come to know in novels I've read and enjoyed. Just read the names, and you'll find you "know" the character too. You've assessed the character and have an opinion of the character. Bill Belichick. Brett Favre. Terrell Owens. Brad Childress. Tom Brady. Randy Moss. Adrian Peterson. When you see the name, the character comes to you. The name itself means something to you that probably can't be paraphrased or easily articulated.

Every game and every season is something of a morality play, with the characters acting, with real events, with a driving plot, leading to a conclusion. Ah, the conclusion. In life there is no real conclusion but death. But in fiction, even if the ending is ambiguous, even if the ending is a cliff-hanger, even if we do not understand the ending, even if a writer like John Fowles decides that one ending isn't quite enough and we'll have more, the book still ends. There's always a last page. The author may decide to leave characters and readers hanging in an unresolved conclusion, but you still get to put the book away when it's finished. How often in life do you get to put anything away and call it finished? And that is where football is like a novel. We know that it will end. All the complexities and open-endedness and confusions of life may play out in the chaos of the line of scrimmage or the bouncing of an odd-shaped ball. But unlike real life, the game is going to end with a winner and a loser (in rare cases, a tie). Unlike real life, each season gives us teams with a record, division winners and playoff teams and those that aren't. There's something. I know that sometime in February 2009, I'm going to see a conclusion to this mad thing called an NFL season that's about to start. The season itself is full of open roads, potentials, possibilities, mysteries--anything might happen. But in February, one team will have done what it takes throughout the madness to emerge as the Super Bowl champion, to be the winner, to have come out as the hero of the narrative. Along the way there will be fading characters, emerging characters, and scapegoats. There will be emotional highs and lows. But the game will end with a winner, and the season will end with a winner. Sure, there's still a future, still a time for hope--it's not the last book you'll ever read. But there's a finality, an ultimate meaning that the season gives us.

And so it comes upon us. Another NFL season is about to start; a new book lies waiting to be opened. I have expectations of the book. I'll open it, and get a sense of the tone, find the narrative, follow the interesting characters and pay little attention to the uninteresting, take interest in the episodes that make up the plot, see patterns and themes and meaning. I'll be moved emotionally, and I'll develop ideas. Along the way I'll talk to people who are reading the same book, find their opinions on it, argue with them about it. I'll share my interpretations and theories, and I'll listen to theirs. I'll certainly laugh and smile and cheer and dance and feel a buoying euphoria. I'll also yell and get frustrated and sad, feeling weighed down by disappointment. I might cry, but I also might learn something. I'll carry the book with me when I'm not reading it, mulling it, letting it color my worldview and shape my mood. I'll think about it and long to return to it while I'm not reading.

And for me, at least, watching football and reading books are not just a minor hobby, an entertainment to pass the time. Reading books is not only a part of my career, but it is a part of my soul: what I read changes me, teaches me, moves me, provides my religious sensibilities, my morality, my philosophies, my hopes and aspirations. And watching football is something like that, no small part of life. Football takes my intellectual and emotional energy in big clumps (not to mention my time), but it also provides something--fun, joy, energy, passion. It will affect my thoughts and feelings for much of each week.

Football is the book I don't want to put down.

And now it starts again. I'm guessing, if you're not only watching the Vikings but bothering to visit a blog in August to read about the Vikings, that football means something big to you too. I'm not alone in anticipating not just the start of a professional sports league's season, but a shift in the rhythms of life. Schedules are altered. The devotion leads to a whole different way of thinking, of acting, of being. Some deep part of us is affected. Sports are not trivial--that which inspires real passion cannot be. And here it comes.

Are you ready.

Similar posts: football playoffs

Michael Phelps is a freak.

The American swimmer (pictured) was described last night by NBC sports announcer Dan Hicks as the "greatest swimmer on the planet", and who could argue?

The Baltimore product is one medal away from tying a modern Olympics record of seven gold medals, and two shy of his own personal goal of eight at the Beijing Games.

Now I was going to throw out the "S" word on the blog today -- that's right, STEROIDS -- until I learned what I learned last night. Sure, the Americans are the best at everything and that includes cheating. I don't want to believe Lance Armstrong was doping, but so many people have said it that I can't deny it. If it's true, then how he got away with it is remarkable.

But we don't need to worry about that with Mr. Phelps.

Nope. Did you see the feature NBC did on him last night just prior to the first of his two races? Bob Costas called him "a human speedboat".

Let's review:

- Phelps is 6'4" tall, but has the torso of a man that's 6'8", and the legs of a man that's 6'0".

- His feet are a size 14 which Costas says "might as well be called fins".

- His hands are the size of dinner plates "which work as huge paddles in the water".

- His knees and elbows are both double-jointed which allows him far better propulsion than his competitors.

- He has a 32" waist.

- His heart pumps two gallons of blood a minute, twice as much as the average human.

- His amazing and inspirational will to win has him in the pool every day and he burns 4,000 calories per workout.

- So far he's due to earn $150,000 from the United States, who's vowed to give $25,000 to each Olympian for every gold medal they earn.

This guy is already being called the best American Olympian ever, and within a few days he could go down as the greatest Olympian of all time in the world.

He sure has my total respect.



So what if Canada doesn't have any medals? They're bringing back an impressive array of purple ribbons that have "PARTICIPANT" written on them in gold.



Watching the Olympics last night, Cindy said she thinks Bob Costas dyes his hair.

Who cares? He looks great, and as boyish as ever. NBC should dust him off and use him for more things than just Sunday Night Football.



Ron MacLean has stepped up his wardrobe for the Beijing Games. I wonder if it'll carry over into the upcoming HNIC season?



The tribute to Don Wittman last night was hair-raising and scintillating.

I still miss him.

Did we ever find out whereabouts he's from in Saskatchewan? I've been told the towns of Herbert and Rosthern both claim to be his hometown.



If I was assigned to cover the Olympics, I wouldn't even see my hotel room for the first week. I've already thought about which events I would be bouncing around to if it was ME covering the Beijing Games for Canwest, rather than the esteemed Rob Vanstone.

R.V. and I have conversed during his time there this week, and I've let him know how fortunate he is to be there!



The Town Of Milestone, SK has erected a "Home of Logan Pyett" sign. I just noticed it the other day.



I don't like the background Sportsnet has behind Evanka Osmak during Sportsnet Connected in the mornings. It has the Calgary Tower and the Saddledome with a bunch of undiscernable buildings around it.

Look, we know you're doing the show out of Toronto so why fake it?

And don't forget the West region includes Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Regina and Edmonton and all points in between so why not some shots of Mosaic Stadium, Canad Inns Stadium, Credit Union Centre, etc.?

Just put the CN Tower and Rogers Centre in there and be done with it. Other than that, it's a great show.



While I'm ranting, if I was with Mosaic Potash I'd be concerned with the growing faction of people who are going back to using the term "Taylor Field" rather than "Mosaic Stadium".

By my calculations, if you break it down Mosaic pays about $35,000 - $37,500 each Rider game for the naming rights to the stadium. Nowadays the only people who are calling it "Mosaic Stadium" are us broadcasters, both on CKRM, TSN, and visiting CFL teams' radio.

I guess it doesn't matter because Marshall Hamilton, the former Rider who brokered the deal between Mosaic, the City of Regina and the Riders, told us on In The Huddle that Mosaic is tremendously pleased with the deal.

Maybe they are, but we're heading towards colossal confusion when their deal runs out and we're going back to Taylor Field, yet it has 'Mosaic Stadium' stamped on the front of it.

Or am I all wet?



Two trusted friends have told me I HAVE to see the movie Stepbrothers with Will Ferrell. By name, they are the Voice of the MJ Warriors James Gallo, and Rider guard Marc Parenteau.

I hadn't planned on seeing it, as I'd also passed on Blades of Glory and Semi-Pro because I thought they looked dumb and this one did too.

But if they say it's different, than I'm gonna go this weekend while the girls are out of town for a few days.

Between that, Madden 09 and Curtis Hunt's going-away party, it's going to be good times..



I've gotta get back to work.

Have a great weekend.

Similar posts: football playoffs

And so the time is finally here. Months of waiting are over for the 72 clubs of the Football League as the brand new season begins this weekend. Everyone starts again, we’re back down to 0 points each and everyone is on a level playing field (except for Luton of course!). So who will come out on top? Who will be relegated? And who will once again have another season of mid table security.

Similar posts: football playoffs

Im going to preface this by stating that in this day and age there really are no since there is so much coverage that a third string QB cant make a nice pass in practice without the world knowing about it.  That said, here is a list of QBs that I feel will exceed expectations this season.
Jake Delhomme - Delhomme was having an outstanding season before getting hurt last year.  He should be good to go and ready to bounce back in a big way.  There are around 15 QBs that are ranked higher or taken before him in mock drafts.  He has one of the games elite WRs in Steve Smith.  They added a pair of quality WRs in Muhsin Muhammad and D.J. Hackett.  Assuming he and his weapons can stay healthy, there is no reason he cant return to the land of Top Ten QBs.
Vince Young - Last year VY was one of the guys I thought were going to bust.  This year Im selecting him to pick himself up, dust himself off, and turn in a decent year.  He finally has a go-to-guy in Alge Crumpler, who jived well with another athletic QB.  Id like to see him make some more plays with his feet. 
Alex Smith - Fool me one, shame on you.  Fool me twice, shame on me.  I predicted good things from Alex Smith last year.  To say he let me down is an understatement.  Instead of avoiding him like the plague though, Ill give him another shot to prove himself.  Naturally, hell need to stay healthy and fend off Shaun Hill.  If he manages to do both he could be in line for a sneaky season.  Vernon Davis should be better in his third season.  They added Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson so at least he has some weapons to work with.  Throw Mike Martz into the mix and you see the stars beginning to align.  If you want further proof, check out their last four games.  In Week 13 when youre looking to secure your playoff spot he faces Buffalo.  In the fantasy playoffs he goes against the Jets, Miami, and St. Louis.  Stop drooling.
JaMarcus Russell - He got a little taste of the NFL last year.  He has the physical tools to be a good QB in the league.  It will depend on how quickly he can pick up the mental aspect of the game.  If Javon Walker can be a factor, his progression will be that much easier.  That said, he still has Zach Miller, who he vibed well with last year.  He can be Russells security blanket.  I wouldnt take Russell until deep in the draft, but he could be a pleasant surprise for whoever is willing to give him a chance.
Tarvaris Jackson - The acquisiton of Bernard Berrian gives T-Jack a deep threat.  Sidney Rice looked decent at times last year.  He is a big target and can be the red zone guy.  Bobby Wade did well last year, and should be more comfortable sliding into the slot.  T-Jack has a good line and a solid ground game.  They will basically beg him to pass.  If he can show any poise, he could have a nice, solid season.
Deeper Sleepers
Joe Flacco - If Baltimores season is in the tank, they could start developing Flacco.
Shaun Hill - If he can overcome Alex Smiths contract and lofty expectations, he could be the SF slinger.
Brodie Croyle - WIth Gonzo and Dwayne Bowe he has options.  If the ground game can return, he could be serviceable.

Similar posts: football playoffs

Similar posts: football playoffs

The Fearless Out of Bounds Predictions for 2008!


Tomorrow will be 30 days until Kickoff. It's time for some
serious southern college football, mixed in with a hint
of drama, and a Gameday beverage.

SEC WEST
1. Auburn: Tubberville is the best coach in the league, and he's got the speed
2. LSU: Pros all over the field....wouldn't be surprised if they win it
3. Bammer: Saban has plenty of talent to finish 3rd...is this underachieving @ 4 million a year?
4. MSU: With Vandy Kentucky at home - it's imperative you win 7 this year
5. Ole Miss: Nutt has the QB and Running back....does he have the depth to win 7?
6. Arkansas: Brutal schedule....the Hogs could go 5-7.

SEC EAST:
1. Florida: It's all about the schedule - the Gators will roll
2. Georgia: The Dawgs have the talent, but the schedule will bite Richt
3. South Carolina: Spurrier will rebound from last year
4. Tennessee: Fulmer will underachieve....again
5. Kentucky: The Wildcats will upset somebody
6. Vandy: Could they go bowling.

Similar posts: football playoffs

Football Playoffs season is full of entertainment. This is the time in the year when things start getting hot on NFL football. Teams are training hard their strategy and people will start to get more relax and enthusiastic.
During football playoffs the betting activity also increases. Offshore Sportsbook start getting a rain of calls and with the great number of bets made sportsbooks gain some good profits. Football playoffs is a great time for football fans and betting companies. There are some factors that must be considered during football playoffs.
There are some basic trends that can help us when betting in football playoffs. Home teams are usually very strong straight up, winning at over 70 percent of the time. Against the spread they hold their own as well hitting at near 60 percent. Home teams that get the first round bye are also solid bets winning at over 62 percent of the time against the spread. Double-digit favorites are also a good bet in NFL football playoffs as they come in at over 65 percent of the time. Usually during the regular season it is a decent idea to bet against the public but that does not always hold true in NFL football playoffs since the favorites do pretty well against the spread. One trend that works well during the regular season and also holds true for football playoffs is that the winning team usually covers the spread. What this means to us is that if we like the underdog we should also seriously consider betting the money line as well.
These are some valuable tips you should remember when betting on the NFL football playoffs. First, insist on yourself on the possibilities of betting for the home team. Second, consider the possibilities of the favorite team winning. Third, if we like the underdog then playing them on the money line is usually a good bet as well. What about totals in the NFL football playoffs? Usually when the football playoffs roll around the defenses tighten up and games tend to be lower scoring. The Super Bowl is a notable exception to that rule, as the teams tend to score higher.
An important factor to watch out for in football playoffs is weather. Since these games are often played in cold weather cities during the winter, football playoffs can be greatly affected by it. Always remember to check the latest weather and take that into consideration when betting any total.
Injuries always seem to pile up as the season wears on and can be a factor in the football playoffs. Be sure and check on the latest injury reports before making your football playoff wager. Line movement is another area to check before you make your bet. I always want to be aware of any late line movement in a football playoffs game because very often it is correct.

Similar posts: football playoffs

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Southern Company, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, National Association of Counties and Wildlife Habitat Council announced today that 10 new wetland, riparian and coastal conservation grants have been awarded in the Southeast through the Five Star Restoration Program.
This year, Southern Company provided $246,000 in grants and, combined with partner matching funds, a total of nearly $532,000 will benefit projects in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi. Since 2006, Southern Company has contributed $621,000 through 33 grants, resulting in an on-the-ground conservation impact of $1.89 million.

"EPA's Five Star Restoration Grant Program will help promote conservation and environmental stewardship in these communities," said Jimmy Palmer, EPA Regional Administrator. "Community-based projects, such as these, improve environmental awareness among local residents and create lasting relationships for protecting and sustaining wetlands, streams and coasts."

The Five Star Restoration Program is a national initiative providing financial and technical support to wetland, riparian and coastal habitat restoration projects. It brings together citizen groups, corporations, students, landowners, youth conservations corps, and local, state and federal government agencies to build diverse partnerships and foster local natural resource stewardship through education, outreach and training activities. In 2006, Southern Company pledged $1.2 million over five years to fund community-based, wetland and streamside restoration across its four-state service territory. Additionally, Southern Company collaborates with the program partners to select the projects each year and distribute funds to grantees.

"As Five Star Restoration's lead corporate sponsor for the Southern region, Southern Company has committed five years of matching funds for projects in our region," said Chris Hobson, senior vice president of research and environmental affairs for Southern Company. "Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world, providing habitat for reptiles, fish, waterfowl, mammals, plants and more. Grassroots efforts through this program will make a significant contribution to our environmental landscape and underscore the importance of healthy wetlands environments in the communities we serve."
The following grants have been awarded in Georgia for 2008:

-- Conasauga River Alliance - to treat 500 linear feet of collapsing streambank in order to restore riparian integrity to a 3,800-foot segment of Swamp Creek, a tributary to the Conasauga River. The site will be used for an in-field, community-based workshop to showcase actual installation of currently underutilized, ecologically-preferable streambank stabilization techniques to area developers, designers and landowners. Additional project partners include Whitfield County, Georgia Environmental Protection Division, Limestone Valley RCD Council, D2 Land and Water Resources and private landowners.

-- DeKalb County Parks Department - to restore and protect more than one-half acre of wetlands at the historic Evans Mill site, including 200 linear feet of riparian buffer, along Pole Bridge Creek. Junk automobile parts and other debris will be removed from the project area along with invasive plant species and restored with native plants. The site will serve as a rest/picnic area at the terminus of a nearby multi-use trail and five local schools will be involved. Project partners include DeKalb County Parks and Greenspace - Office and Department of Watershed Management, Salem Middle School, University of Georgia Extension 4H Program and University of Georgia Alumni Association - DeKalb Chapter.

-- Georgia Wildlife Federation - to restore 3.5 acres of wetlands along the Alcovy River at East End Road in Covington. Invasive exotic flora will be removed and replanted with desirable native wetland species. This will be used as a demonstration site to educate the community about the economic and ecological values of healthy riverine ecosystems. Additional project partners include The Conservation Fund, Georgia Future Farmers of America-Future Career and Community Leaders of America, Georgia River Fishing, Newton County Keep Covington-Newton Beautiful, Oxford College of Emory University, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Georgia Department of Environmental Protection Division, Adopt-A-Stream and Rivers Alive, Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council, Newton County Extension and Master Gardeners and Air Conditioning Specialists.

-- Chattahoochee RiverWatch, Inc. - to restore 2.2 miles of riparian forest buffer along Lindsey Creek from Macon Road to Bull Creek, a major tributary of the Chattahoochee River watershed. The project will engage the local community in stewardship of their water resources and help produce an education video about the impacts of storm water and non-point source pollution on water quality in the watershed. Additional project partners include Columbus Consolidated Government, Columbus State University Environmental Science Program and Georgia Forestry Commission.

-- Elachee Nature Science Center - to restore 15 acres of riparian forests of the Chicopee Woods by treating exotic invasive plants and restoring the area with diverse native plants. This site will help train volunteers and teach the public and local elementary students about the threat of exotic invasive plants in Georgia and promote local conservation efforts. Additional project partners include Chicopee Woods Area Park Commission, Chicopee Woods Weed Management Area, Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council and City of Gainesville.

-- Upper Oconee Watershed Network - to restore 800 feet of riparian buffer and streamside wetlands in the Trail Creek Watershed. This effort will be used to teach citizens about the relationship between residential land management and riparian habitat condition, stream health, downstream water quality, and the species that depend on these ecologically valuable corridors. This project will provide local residents with tools to initiate their own backyard wetland habitat improvements and the project will conduct a series of workshops to educate and engage local citizens in watershed health and maintenance. Additional project partners include Oconee River Greenway Commission, Chicopee-Dudley Neighborhood Association, University of Georgia, Athens-Clarke County Departments of Leisure Services, Public Works and Central Services and Athens Garden Club.

The goal of EPA's Wetlands program is to motivate and inspire the Nation to value, protect and restore the ecological integrity of its wetlands and aquatic ecosystems. The Wetlands Program accomplishes this through co-leadership of the Clean Water Act's wetlands regulatory program, and by fostering effective wetlands management in strategic partnerships with states, tribes, local governments and other key partners. EPA's vision is for America to have abundant and healthy wetlands and aquatic ecosystems that sustain biologically diverse plant and animal life, improve water quality, protect communities from flooding and provide recreational opportunities.

Similar posts: football playoffs

Similar posts: football playoffs

by HawkeyeReport.com
All the visits are done. The only thing left for quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase is to announce his decision. The 6-foot-3, 184-pound Scheelhaase will do exactly that later today shortly after 6 PM central time as he chooses between Iowa, Oklahoma, Kansas, Illinois, Nebraska, and Missouri. Get the latest on the four-star prospect and his upcoming decision right here.

Similar posts: football playoffs

2008 SEC Conference College Football Predictions Courtesy of Alex Smart. A Professional College Football Handicapper at Touthouse.com. Purchase his Expert College Football Predictions Today!
The Southeastern Conference has provided the last two National Champions and 2008 promises to be real exciting. No other conference has as many quality coaches, Alabamas Nick Saban, Floridas Urban Meyer, LSUs Les Miles, South Carolinas Steve Spurrier, Tennessees Phillip Fulmer. No other conference has the strength in depth of quality teams and no other conference has as many heated rivalries.
The SEC should provide two tight division races this season that will go down to the wire. And once again the conference promises to have at least two teams finish in the top ten, with one of the teams going on to compete for the national title.
The SEC is extending itself this year with the big boys playing some huge non-conference games, but the best from the conference will still come down to the league schedule.
Top Ten SEC Games
1. Florida vs. Georgia, Nov. 1
2. LSU at Auburn, Sept. 20
3. Florida at Tennessee, Sept. 20
4. LSU at Florida, Oct. 11
5. Georgia at LSU, Oct. 25
6. Tennessee at Georgia, Oct. 11
7. Georgia at Auburn, Nov. 15
8. Auburn at Alabama, Nov. 29
9. Alabama at LSU, Nov. 8
10. Alabama at Georgia, Sept. 27
Top Ten Non-Conference Games
1. Auburn at West Virginia, Oct. 23
2. Georgia at Arizona State, Sept. 20
3. Alabama vs. Clemson, Aug. 30
4. Florida at Florida State, Nov. 29
5. Miami at Florida, Sept. 6
6. Georgia Tech at Georgia, Nov. 29
7. South Carolina at Clemson, Nov. 29
8. Arkansas at Texas, Sept. 13
9. Tennessee at UCLA, Sept. 1
10. Kentucky at Louisville, Aug. 30
East Division
Florida - Have a realistic chance of going unbeaten and walking away with a National Title. Getting Ole Miss from the West is offset by the home date against LSU, while the non-conference schedule is easier than it appears on paper. In SEC play its all about the East, and if the Gators can get by their early showdown at Tennessee it all opens up with South Carolina and Kentucky going to The Swamp.
15-4 ATS in non-conference action coming off a strong offensive performance in which they scored 55 points or more.
1-9 ATS as a road favorite off a win.
Georgia - The Dawgs chances of being a contender could be decided by as early as week four with road trips to South Carolina and Arizona State and a home date against two-time defending MAC champion Central Michigan. The inter division draw couldnt be any worse than facing Alabama and going on the road to play LSU and Auburn with both Tiger games book ending a brutal four-week stretch of at LSU, Florida, at Kentucky, at Auburn. If Georgia can get through their schedule with just one blemish, the Dawgs will truly have earned a spot in the national title game.
23-42-3 ATS at home in Athens coming off a SU and ATS win. In this situation off a point spread win of more than 10 points, the Bulldogs crash to 5-22-3 ATS.
4-26 O/U since 2000 off a SU win of 21 or more points.
Kentucky - The Wildcats arent going to be as good as last year and given their joke of a non-conference schedule, they will start the season either 4-0 or 3-1. This may just offer some line value in the early conference games. Avoiding LSU and Auburn from the West is a plus, but given Kentuckys back-heavy slate getting the Gators, Vols, and Georgia from October 25th on, an 8-4 season would represent a commendable effort.
20-36-1 ATS as a SEC dog of +7 or less.
South Carolina - It doesnt get any simpler than this win early or it could be an ugly year. The Gamecocks see three of their last five dates with LSU and Tennessee at home and Florida and Clemson on the road. Outside of the trip to The Swamp, the SEC road slate is a relative breeze going to Vanderbilt, Ole Miss and Kentucky.
20-13-2 ATS under head coach Spurrier, including 10-3 ATS on the road.
9-25 O/U on the road since 2001.
Tennessee - The Vols season hinges on how they come out of their top-heavy early schedule. Trips to UCLA, Auburn and Georgia and a home date with Florida fill two-thirds of Tennessees first six games. Going unbeaten through the remainder of the schedule, Mississippi State, Alabama, at South Carolina, Wyoming, at Vanderbilt and Kentucky to finish determines if a bowl invitation comes their way.
14-1 SU and 12-3 ATS coming off a double-digit SU loss.
2-10 ATS (L12) as home favorites of -7 or less points.
Vanderbilt - Vandy are a long way from being competitive in the SEC East. Road trips to Ole Miss and Mississippi State from the West is a nice break in the first half of the season. But Vanderbilts problems come in the back half of the year with no gimme November home games playing Florida and Tennessee to go with two tough road games at Kentucky and Wake Forest.
21-35-1 ATS at home vs. an opponent that enters off a straight up loss.
West Division
Alabama - On paper at least, Alabama will have a winning season and end their season with a bowl game. That is mainly due to a powder puff non-conference schedule against Tulane, Arkansas State and Western Kentucky. Throw in home dates against Kentucky, Ole Miss and Mississippi State and you see what I mean. Nasty games vs. Clemson (played in the Georgia Dome in Atlanta), at Arkansas, at Georgia, at Tennessee, at LSU and hosting Auburn will prevent the Crimson Tide going on a big streak of wins.
30-13-1 ATS as dogs off a SU win.
2-14-1 ATS as a home favorite vs. a conference foe.
Arkansas - A .500 season or one game above or below beckons for Bobby Petrinos troops in his first season. Starting off against Western Illinois and UL Monroe will give the Razorbacks time to prepare for the road trip to Texas and the SEC opener against Alabama. Life gets tougher with the first two dates in October, hosting Florida and visiting Auburn. After those two the schedule lightens up with just two tough tilts against South Carolina in Columbia and a season ending game against LSU in Little Rock.
12-4 ATS at home coming off a straight up conference loss.
Auburn - The Tigers have plenty of big-time games, but luckily, almost all of them are at home. Going on the road to face West Virginia in a mid-season Thursday night game is the only road date problem until the season-ender at Alabama. LSU, Tennessee and Georgia are all good enough to win the SEC title, but theyre all coming to Jordan-Hare. A successful season beckons for Auburn as they catch a favorable schedule with it all ending with a top two finish in the West and a bowl invitation. One must doff their cap to Auburn for going to Morgantown to face the Mountaineers in the last weekend in October.
14-4 ATS their last 18 as an underdog, including a more recent 8-1 ATS.
9-22 O/U as underdogs, including 3-10 O/U in their last 13 on the road.
LSU - Division aspirations may be decided as early as week four with a visit to Auburn. The defending national champions dont get much of a break from the SEC scheduling gods having to travel to Florida and South Carolina before hosting Georgia in Death Valley. Get through those three, and the end of October, with just one loss, and the national title could be there for the taking with a manageable November facing Tulane, Alabama, Ole Miss and a road trip to Arkansas.
12-7-1 ATS as a double-digit road favorite since 1988 season.
3-13 ATS as home favorites of -14.5 to -21 points.
Ole Miss - Depending on the outcome in week two when the Rebels travel to Winston-Salem (Wake Forest), Houston Nutts boys could just be 4-0 or 3-1. Then comes a road trip to Florida, before the defining part of the Rebels schedule with South Carolina, Auburn and Mississippi State coming to Oxford. With only five road games, this could be the year the Rebels turn into an SEC factor again.
1-16-1 ATS at home vs. opponents off a DD loss.
6-17 O/U off a home loss.
Mississippi State - Overall the Bulldogs schedule isnt that bad getting what can be best described as a walk in the park of a non-conference schedule and dates with Vanderbilt and Kentucky from the East. Three killer road dates, at Georgia Tech, at LSU, and at Tennessee, all before the end of October will makes life hard to improve on last seasons breakthrough campaign.
6-12 ATS coming off two or more straight up wins vs. an opponent off a DD los
CONFERENCE TREND: SEC conference games played in the first three weeks of the season are 8-20-1 O/U since 2004 and are presently on a 4-14 O/U run.
CONFERENCE SERIES TRENDS:
ALABAMA vs. AUBURN: The underdog is 18-9 ATS in this series since 1980, including 4-0 ATS off a loss as a favorite.
AUBURN vs. LSU: 0-7 O/U in the last 7 meetings since 2000. The average combined points is only 29.3 points in those last 7 meetings.
AUBURN vs. GEORGIA: Auburn are 9-1 ATS when playing with revenge against Georgia.
GEORGIA vs. FLORIDA: The Cocktail Party rivalry has been a very unpleasant experience for Georgia who has lost 15 of 17, covering a mere five times. The favorite is 1-4-1 ATS the last six years. Since 2002 five games have been decided by a touchdown or less. The straight winner is 21-3-1 ATS in the last quarter century.
LSU vs. ALABAMA: The host is 5-10 SU and 2-12 ATS since 1992.
LSU vs. MISSISSIPPI STATE: The Bayou Bengals are 8-0 SU and 7-1 ATS. NOTE: Those eight wins came by an average of 30.6 points per game.
SOUTH CAROLINA vs. GEORGIA: The UNDER is 11-0 in the L11 games since 1996. The average OU line in this series has been 44.5 in those eleven meetings. And the average points scored in those games is an EXTREMELY low 27.8 points.
VANDERBILT vs. ALABAMA: The Commodores are 0-13 SU but 10-3 ATS in L13 games.
VANDERBILT vs. SOUTH CAROLINA: South Carolina is 13-2 SU and 11-3-1 ATS in its last 15 meetings against the Commodores.
VANDERBILT vs. GEORGIA: The Commodores are 1-11-1 SU and 4-9 ATS at home versus Georgia.

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The museum, which was located in the Lexington Center adjacent to Rupp Arena, can no longer support itself financially, executive director Van Florence said.

According to its Web site, the museum featured interactive exhibits giving fans the chance to make a radio call of a great UK moment, or play virtual one-on-one hoops against a favorite Wildcat.

According to reports, some of the museum's exhibits will likely reappear in a free setting before the 2008-09 season begins -- possibly in the Craft Center, Kentucky's new on-campus practice facility.

I don't think it would be a museum, per se.

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Arena Football League Teams The Chicago Rush (8-2) and Philadelphia Soul (9-1) can become the first two teams to claim 2008 playoff berths as the Mitsubishi Motors Drive to ArenaBowl XXII New Orleans kicks into high gear for Week 11. By Andrew Levy -- ArenaFootball.com spoke with Tampa Bay Head Coach Tim Marcum about, among other things, the Storm's win over Orlando, the influence his father had in his life and his radio show, Cookies and Milk. Arena Football League In an attempt to invigorate interest in what many see as a niche or novelty sport and thereby broaden their fan base, Arena Football League Commissioner David Baker announced last Saturday that the March 17 contest between the Colorado . QB Matt D'Orazio leads the Philadelphia Soul into Cleveland to take on QB Raymond Philyaw and the Gladiators at 7 pm ET. Click here for all of Friday's game previews around the Arena Football League. Arena Football League 2 QB Joe Germaine, DB Kenny McEntyre and LB/FB Josh Jeffries were named Offensive Player, ADT Defensive Player, and Ironman of the Week respectively for Week 10. QB Russh Michna was 18 of 32 for 184 yards and four touchdowns, adding two rushing score, as the Chicago Rush defeated the Tampa Bay Storm, 51-46, on Monday night at the St. Pete Times Forum. Arena Football League Standings Having put together back-to-back wins after a miserable 0-9 start to the season, the Utah Blaze truly have believe it or not put themselves back into the Arena Football Leagues playoff chase after two wins in a row, . The Arena Football League approved the use of instant replay for this year's playoffs. The league's Board of Directors unanimously approved the change, marking the first time in the AFL's 22-season history that instant replay will be . Arena Football League Scores So, let me put on the commissioner hat, wave the magic wand, and make save the Arena Football League. 1. Use ESPN More Despite having a contract with ESPN, the AFL fails to garner much airtime with just one or two games televised each . By Jenn Boehm --Now in his sophomore AFL season, QB Brett Dietz guided the Tampa Bay Storm to a big win over long-time division rival Orlando last week and the 3-5 squad is presently primed for a hefty Monday night matchup against. Arena Football League Teams Former University of Utah standout Ed Taamu 97 is in his second season as a member of the Kansas City Brigade of the Arena Football League. He is listed as a starter at Offensive Guard and a backup at Tight End. In 2007, . FB Marlion Jackson had four rushing touchdowns and the Cleveland Gladiators handed the Philadelphia Soul their first loss of the 2008 season. Check out recaps from all of the Week 10 action. Arena Football League Arena Football has had some success, but the game is played entirely different. Many NFL squads are sending their young players to Europe to play NFL Europe. Remember the CFL? No? Canadian Football League? . QB Tim Hicks was 19 of 36 for 328 yards and six touchdowns, two to WR Timon Marshall, as the Los Angeles Avengers defeated the Arizona Rattlers, 66-59, in a Western Division battle on Satuday night at STAPLES Center. Arena Football League 2 QB Clint Dolezel leads the Dallas Desperados (7-1) into Columbus to take on QB Matt Nagy and the Destroyers (2-6) in an Eastern Division battle at 7 pm ET. The game can be seen LIVE on AFL NET. Click here for live stats. QB Clint Dolezel leads the Dallas Desperados (7-1) into Columbus to take on QB Matt Nagy and the Destroyers (2-6) in an Eastern Division battle at 7 pm ET on AFL NET. Click here to check out of all of Saturday's game previews. Arena Football League Standings By Andrew Levy -- Cleannord Saintil wonders why the receivers in San Jose do not get the credit they deserve. TT Toliver is content with flying under the radar in Orlando. They both are top receivers, but get little recognition. QB John Dutton threw for 319 yards and five touchdowns, four to WR Aaron Hosack, as the Colorado Crush defeated the Grand Rapids Rampage, 63-28, in a Central Division battle on Friday night at Pepsi Center. Arena Football League Scores QB Matt D'Orazio leads the Philadelphia Soul into Cleveland to take on QB Raymond Philyaw and the Gladiators at 7 pm ET. Click here for live stats and to listen live. I'm very excited, said Adams, who also is a Midwest regional scout for the Mahoning Valley Thunder of the Arena Football League 2. It's an opportunity for us to see where we're at We worked very hard for a long time, .

Americano news >>> football playoffs

The CIFL has announced that they have suspended coach Eddie Long's defending league champion Rochester Raiders! This is more jokes from the CIFL as everyone already knows the Rochester Raiders told the Spitaleri brothers to stick this league on Sunday! As reported here and elsewhere on Sunday the undefeated Raiders pulled out of the CIFL and joined the AIFA after the Flint Phantoms failed to show for their game in Rochester. The CIFL has replaced Rochester in the playoffs with the 7-5 Marion Mahem, and has placed the Rochester Raiders on a so-called suspended status. The Raiders are the one that suspended the CIFL games...not the league. The league suspension may help the league appear to save face, but the fact remains that the Rochester Raiders pulled out of this league and joined the AIFA on Sunday.

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Americano news >>> football playoffs

5/7/08
By Christopher Lyke
Texas HS Football Chief Editor
For the Midlothian Panthers of 2008, the expectations to make the playoffs could be a very big reality. After a 2007 season, which saw a strong start to the season in pre-district play and then disappointment at the end of the season during district play, the Panthers are aiming to change the tone in district play. If the Panthers are going to make the playoffs, youth up front will need to step up big and the skill position players will have to find a level of consistency that brings positive results.
Taking a look at the offense, the Panthers bring back five from last years squad including quarterback Bryce Petty. Petty comes back to the Panthers as the teams returing leader in both passing and rushing. Filling the void at the running back position left by Caleb McEachern will be vital to Midlothian playoff chances. Junior Rob Gray will be the key to not only Pettys offensive produuction, but the ability of the young receivers and linemen to grow into their positions and roles.
Senior Dylan Fowler returns after a 2007 season that saw 41 receptions on 663 yards and seven touches into footballs promised land. Look for Fowler to get more looks in 2008 and become the key leader in the Panther receiving core. Midlothians other three main targets on the outside including three juniors in Eddie Johnson, Sterling Graves and Mason York. If Johnson, Graves and York find a way to grab consistent and balnced production, the air attack in Midlothian could be much more dangerous than what some could expect.
Production out of Petty, Fowler and Gray could hinge on the success of how quick the youth of Robby Clarks offensive line can get used to the daily grind and acclomades of protecting the skill players in one of the states tougher and more traditional power districts in the state. The most experienced offensive lineman returning is that of senior R.J. Hunt. The loss of Garrick Smitherman, Alan Hale and Clint Mantel may be a big key to Midlothians early season plans.
Defensively, the Panthers return five starters from last years squad, just as they do offensively. Look for Landon Freeman and Dante Floyd to have very big senior seasons out of the linebacker and defensive back spots respectively. But spliting time at the end of the trenches and on the outer fringes of the linebacker slot will be newcomer Alonzo Newton. Up front, Netwon will be joined by sophomore Blake Lunday, Alex Poole and Phillip Lockwood. Poole and Lockwood are expected to rotate with Newton occasionally at the end position.
In the middle of the field and in the backfield, the Panthers will see the strength of the team be the keys to Midlothians playoff hopes. Freeman, who returns to the team after gobbling up 109 tackles in his junior campaign, will have the services of Dante Floyd and Marcus Simmons to help increase the stability and success of the Panther defense. And although, youth may be a factor, experience and fundamentals could be the key benefit to Midlothians chances. Among the newcomers on the defensive side of the ball, Robby Clarks Diamond In The Rough could be junior Blake Chandler at the defensive back position.
And if the games are close, the ever improving prospect and top special teams prospect in Vince Frawley could come calling into the clutch situation and end of the game to put Midlothian over the top. Frawley in 2007 went 10 of 16 from field goal range and 25 of 30 on extra point attempts. As a punter, Frawley averaged 35.5 yards a punt on 30 total punts in his junior season.

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