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05-18-2007, 02:49 PM
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| Countdown To Kickoff Countdown to Kickoff: Western Carolina Countdown to Kickoff: Western Carolina td.yspwidearticlebody { font-size: 13.5px; }By Matt Scalici, BamaOnLine.com Staff Writer – Rivals.com Countdown To Kickoff: A Preview of Alabama's 2007 Opponents Game One: Western Carolina at Alabama Where: Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, Ala. When: September 1, 2007 Time/TV: TBA Series record: Alabama leads, 1-0. Last meeting: 2004: Alabama 52, Western Carolina 0 About Western Carolina 2006 Record: 2-9 (0-7 in Southern Conference) Head Coach: Kent Briggs has compiled a won-loss record of 21-33 in five seasons at Western Carolina. Briggs, a former quarterback at Western Carolina, served as defensive coordinator for the Catamounts before being hired as head coach in 2002. Briggs has also served as a defensive coordinator at NC State and Connecticut. Returning Starters: 19 (Offense: 9, Defense: 9, Specialists: 1) 2005 by the numbers: Scoring offense: 14.5 ppg; Pass offense: 152.5 ypg; Rush offense: 103.2 ypg; Total offense: 255.6 ypg; Scoring defense: 28.7 ppg; Pass defense: 173.1 ypg; Rush defense: 208.1 ypg; Total defense: 381.2 ypg. When Western Carolina has the ball: The Catamounts offense struggled last season breaking the 20-point mark just once against a Division I opponent. Western Carolina hopes its offensive woes will turn around under new offensive coordinator Doug Malone who led the Tennessee Tech offense to great success with his no-huddle attack. The Catamounts' biggest strength a year ago was its rushing attack thanks to a 1,000-yard season from Darius Fudge. With Fudge graduated, the Catamounts will look to senior Mike Malone and sophomore Willie Harper neither of whom saw significant playing time in 2006. At quarterback, both senior Todd Spitzer and junior Andy Horn saw time under center last season and either could end up as the opening day starter depending on which signal caller adapts best to the new offense. Spitzer holds the edge when it comes to experience, playing in 9 games last season for the Catamounts and completing just over 50 percent of his passes with 3 touchdowns and one interception. A large part of the team's offensive woes last season could be attributed to the offensive front sporting a lineup made entirely of sophomores, all of whom return this season with another year of experience under their belt. The Catamounts' strength on offense this season could be the receiving corps, which returns three seniors coming off solid seasons. Michael Hines heads up the group leading the team in 2006 with 60 catches for 461 yards and 5 touchdowns. Eddie Cohen proved to be the team's big play threat averaging 15.3 yards per catch and hauling in 33 catches for 505 yards and 2 touchdowns. Rounding out the three-wide set will be Chris Jefferson who grabbed 21 catches for 249 yards and a touchdown last season. What will Western Carolina do offensively?: Malone ran a no-huddle, spread offense at Tennessee Tech and with the Catamounts returning their top three receivers, expect Western Carolina to try to move the ball with lots of short, quick passing routes. Match-up to watch: Alabama cornerbacks Simeon Castille, Lionel Mitchell, Marquis Johnson and Kareem Jackson vs. Western Carolina receivers Michael Hines, Eddie Cohen and Chris Jefferson. The big question: Will the Tide secondary be able to capitalize on the opportunities Western Carolina's pass-happy offense will present? When Alabama has the ball: Defensively, Western Carolina's strength lies in its linebacker corps which includes top returning tackler Kadeem Morgan. Morgan tallied 68 tackles last season including 37 solo tackles and 6 tackles for loss. Morgan also hauled in two interceptions from the weakside linebacker spot as well as a fumble recovery. At outside linebacker, senior Mordy Ornguze serves as the Catamounts key big play creator with 7 tackles for loss among his 61 total tackles. Ornguze has also proven to be a threat blocking punts and kicks for the Catamounts, earning a national Division I-AA honor for his special teams work. The Catamounts return their entire defensive front which struggled with run stopping last season allowing opponents more than 200 yards rushing per game. At 315 pounds, defensive tackle John Martin is a load for any interior lineman to handle while sophomore nose tackle Gene Singletary returns after an impressive freshman campaign that included 5 tackles for loss. The Catamount secondary also includes four starters who each created turnovers last season. Corner Antoine George tallied 34 tackles to go along with his 2 interceptions. At the opposite corner, Carlton Bailey was equally productive at producing turnovers grabbing two interceptions of his own along with a forced fumble. Strong safety Angelo Brown had a 45-yard interception return while free safety Meko Watson played a versatile role making 3 tackles for loss along with forced fumble. What will Western Carolina do defensively?: Defensive coordinator Don Powers employs a traditional 4-3 scheme but has been known to mix things up with plenty of blitzes from linebackers and safeties. Match-up to watch: Alabama's running backs Terry Grant, Glen Coffee, Roy Upchurch and Jimmy Johns vs. Western Carolina linebackers Kadeem Morgan and Mordy Ornguze. The big question: How smoothly will the new Tide offense operate in its first outing? Western Carolina special teams: Punter Stephen Brown saw limited action in 2006 as a backup averaging just 31.6 yards per punt but placing 7 of his 8 punts inside the 20. Junior Jonathan Parsons starts as both the kickoff and field goal man knocking in 6 of 10 attempts last season. Returning kickoffs will be the running back duo of Mike Malone and Willie Harper while linebacker Mordy Urnguze handles the punt return duties. 2006 Results 8/31/06 Chowan (W, 42-0) 9/16/06 Eastern Kentucky (W, 20-17) 9/23/06 @ Furman (L, 42-7) 9/30/06 Georgia Southern (L, 24-14) 10/7/06 @ Elon (L, 37-19) 10/14/06 Chattanooga (L, 17-14, OT) 10/21/06 @ The Citadel (L, 30-27, OT) 10/28/06@ Wofford (L, 35-7) 11/4/06 @ Liberty (L, 21-0) 11/11/06 Appalachian State (L, 31-9) 11/18/06 @ Florida (L, 62-0) 2007 Schedule 9/1/07 @ Alabama 9/8/07 @ Eastern Kentucky 9/15/07 @ Georgia 9/22/07 Presbyterian 9/29/07 @ Georgia Southern 10/6/07 Elon 10/13/07 @ Chattanooga 10/20/07 The Citadel 10/27/07 Wofford 11/10/07 @ Appalachian State 11/17/07 Furman Updated on Thursday, May 10, 2007 12:00 pm EDT
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05-28-2007, 10:51 AM
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| Re: Countdown To Kickoff Countdown to Kickoff: Vanderbilt td.yspwidearticlebody { font-size: 13.5px; }By Matt Scalici, BamaOnLine.com Staff Writer – Rivals.com Countdown To Kickoff: A Preview of Alabama's 2007 Opponents Game Two: Alabama at Vanderbilt Where: Vanderbilt Stadium, Nashville, Tenn. When: September 8, 2007 Time/TV: TBA Series record: Alabama leads, 58-19-4. Last meeting: 2006: Alabama 13, Vanderbilt 10 About Vanderbilt 2006 Record: 4-8 (1-7 in SEC) Head Coach: Bobby Johnson has compiled a won-loss record of 15-43 in five seasons at Vanderbilt. Prior to coaching the Commodores, Johnson served as the head coach at Division I-AA Furman for eight seasons as well as defensive coordinator at Clemson. Returning Starters: 19 (Offense: 9, Defense: 8, Specialists: 2) 2005 by the numbers: Scoring offense: 22 ppg; Pass offense: 201.4 ypg; Rush offense: 149.6 ypg; Total offense: 351 ypg; Scoring defense: 23.7 ppg; Pass defense: 196.7 ypg; Rush defense: 156 ypg; Total defense: 352.7 ypg. When Vanderbilt has the ball: Though the Commodores weren't the most productive offense in the SEC, they did enough with their very young unit to force teams around the league to respect the arsenal of offensive weapons they have returning in 2007. No Commodore commands more respect than junior wide receiver Earl Bennett, a two-time All-SEC playmaker who has racked up huge statistics in each of his first two seasons at Vandy. Last season Bennett led his team with 82 catches for 1146 yards putting him on pace to break the SEC record for career receptions this year. Behind Bennett, the Commodores have two dependable juniors in George Smith and Sean Walker who each bring impressive speed to the position but will need to make more plays to take some of the pressure off their superstar teammate. Tossing the ball to Bennett and company will likely be Chris Nickson who stepped in nicely last season to the void left by Jay Cutler throwing for 2085 yards and 15 touchdowns and led the team in rushing with 694 yards and 9 touchdowns. Nickson will face some competition in the fall however from Arizona transfer Richard Kovalcheck who made a strong showing during spring practice and while lacking Nickson's mobility has the experience and arm strength the Commodores need to cut down on their turnovers. The Commodores' will also be sporting one of the strongest backfields yet in 2007 with the return of starter Cassen Jackson-Garrison as well as junior Jeff Jennings who missed the 2006 season with a knee injury but looked impressive during Vanderbilt's spring practice. The Commodores' added depth at the running back position could give them the boost they need on offense to finish long drives, something they struggled with last season. Despite their returning playmakers, the foundation of the Commodores' offense in 2007 will be the offensive line. With the return of right tackle Brian Stamper who is coming off season-ending back surgery, the line returns all five starters including second-team All-SEC left tackle Chris Williams. Guards Merritt Kirchoffer and Josh Eames each struggled with injuries late in the season last year but when healthy they provide one of the league's best offensive fronts allowing just 19 sacks last season, the third-best mark in the SEC. What will Vanderbilt do offensively?: Offensive coordinator Ted Cain made use of Nickson's speed last season by spreading the defense out with plenty of three and four wide receiver sets and sending the speedy quarterback on plenty of draws and option plays. With more experience on the field this season and more depth at running back, look for a slightly more balanced offense with Jackson-Garrison and Jennings giving the Commodores a legitimate ground attack. Cain and the 'Dores also like to utilize the speed of Bennett and the receiving corps on reverse plays and with Bennett returning you can expect to see more trickery and misdirection again this season. Match-up to watch: Alabama cornerback Simeon Castille vs. Vanderbilt wide receiver Earl Bennett. The big question: How will the thin and young Tide defensive front handle themselves against a Vanderbilt offensive front that features five seniors? When Alabama has the ball: The Commodore's return eight starters to a defense that ranked near the bottom of the SEC in most categories last season but showed the ability to make big plays and force turnovers when playing at its best. Up front, the 'Dores will look to replace two starters from last season's line, defensive tackle Ray Brown and end Chris Booker. Stepping into Brown's spot will likely be senior Gabe Hall who struggled with injuries last season while Booker's replacement will likely be sophomore Steven Stone who had five sacks last season as a backup. Returning from last season on the line are seniors Theo Horrocks and Curtis Gatewood, two of the SEC's most productive linemen last season. At defensive tackle, Horrocks is the model of a balanced lineman with 5 sacks and 4 hurries as a pass rusher along with 49 tackles and 4 forced fumbles showcasing his run-stopping ability. In his junior season, Gatewood racked up an impressive 8 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 3 forced fumbles and an interception making him one of the most dangerous pass rushers to ever suit up for the Commodores. In the linebacker corps, All-SEC selection Jonathan Goff returns for his senior season after an impressive junior outing in which he led the Commodores in tackles with 93 including 67 solo tackles. The Commodores will need to replace last year's starter at the weakside spot Kevin Joyce but return strongside starter Marcus Buggs who led the team in tackles for loss with 10.5 and was solid in pass coverage hauling in an interception and registering 4 pass breakups. The Commodores weakness a season ago was its secondary and the unit remains on the young side with three sophomores and a junior returning to claim the starting roles. Cornerbacks D.J. Moore and Joel Caldwell struggled last season as freshmen starters surrendering nearly 200 yards per game in the air last season and producing just one interception between them. At safety, the Commodores return a two-year starter in strong safety Reshard Langford who nabbed three interceptions last season to lead the secondary. With free safety Ryan Hamilton still learning on the job after a tough freshman season, Langford will be asked to not only lead but at times carry the secondary as it continues to develop. Depth appears to be as big a concern as inexperience when it comes to the secondary, with very few scholarship athletes available behind Langford and Hamilton at safety. What will Vanderbilt do defensively?: The Commodores line up in a traditional 4-3 but utilize plenty of blitzes from their linebackers and safeties to compensate for their weaknesses in pass coverage. Match-up to watch: Alabama running backs Terry Grant, Roy Upchurch and Glen Coffee vs. Vanderbilt linebacker Jonathan Goff. The big question: Can the Commodores' inexperienced secondary find a way to contain the Tide passing game? Vanderbilt special teams: Placekicker Bryant Hanfeldt struggled last season hitting on just 8 of 17 field goal attempts but looked better in the spring after undergoing knee surgery in the off-season. Sophomore punter Brett Upson struggled in his first season averaging 38 yards per punt but remains the top candidate for the Commodores. Bennett handles the return duties on both punts and kickoffs but lacked the help on special teams to make any big plays in the return game last season. 2006 Results 9/2/06 @ Michigan (L, 27-7) 9/9/06 @ Alabama (L, 13-10) 9/16/06 Arkansas (L, 21-19) 9/23/06 Tennessee St. (W, 38-9) 9/30/06 Temple (W, 43-14) 10/7/06 @ Ole Miss (L, 17-10) 10/14/06 @ Georgia (W, 24-22) 10/21/06 South Carolina (L, 31-13) 10/28/06 @ Duke (W, 45-2  11/4/06 Florida (L, 25-19) 11/11/06 @ Kentucky (L, 38-26) 11/18/06 Tennessee (L, 39-10) 2007 Schedule 9/1/07 Richmond 9/8/07 Alabama 9/15/07 Ole Miss 9/29/07 Eastern Michigan 10/6/07 @ Auburn 10/13/07 Georgia 10/20/07 @ South Carolina 10/27/07 Miami (OH) 11/3/07 @ Florida 11/10/07 Kentucky 11/17/07 @ Tennessee 11/24/07 Wake Forest Updated on Tuesday, May 15, 2007 5:00 pm EDT |
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06-18-2007, 09:35 PM
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| Re: Countdown To Kickoff May 24, 2007 Countdown to Kickoff: Arkansas Matt Scalici BamaOnLine.com Countdown To Kickoff: A Preview of Alabama's 2007 Opponents Game Three: Arkansas at Alabama Where: Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, Ala. When: September 15, 2007 Time/TV: TBA Series record: Alabama leads, 9-8. Last meeting: 2006: Alabama 23, Arkansas 24 (OT) About Arkansas 2006 Record: 10-4 (7-1 in SEC) Head Coach: Houston Nutt has compiled a won-loss record of 67-44 in nine seasons at Arkansas. Prior to coaching the Razorbacks, Nutt was the head coach at Boise State for one season in 1997 and led the Broncos to a 4-7 mark. Nutt also coached at Murray State for four seasons (1993-96). Returning Starters: 11 (Offense: 6, Defense: 4, Specialists: 1) 2005 by the numbers: Scoring offense: 28.9 ppg; Pass offense: 149.5 ypg; Rush offense: 228.5 ypg; Total offense: 378 ypg; Scoring defense: 18.3 ppg; Pass defense: 185.1 ypg; Rush defense: 114.6 ypg; Total defense: 299.6 ypg. When Arkansas has the ball: Despite all the talk about a move to a more balanced offense, the Razorback attack starts and ends with what many have called the nation's top tailback duo, Heisman runner-up Darren McFadden and All-American Felix Jones. Both tailbacks ran for over 1,000 yards last season and provide a 1-2 punch of speed and power that simply can't be matched in college football today. Joining McFadden and Jones in the backfield is versatile fullback/H-back Peyton Hillis who in addition to providing pass protection and run blocking caught 19 passes last year, making him the third leading receiver on the team. At quarterback, junior Casey Dick was the Razorback's best option this spring and with the departure of Mitch Mustain maybe their only option. With so little depth at quarterback for the time being, Dick's health will be crucial to Arkansas' success this fall. The biggest question mark for the Razorback offense heading into this season will be the offense line. The backbone of the Hogs' offense last year, Arkansas will need to replace three starters on the offensive front including NFL-bound left tackle Tony Ugoh. This spring the job went to junior Jose Valdez, Ugoh's backup for the last two seasons. At 6-foot-6, 308 pounds Valdez certainly has the size to fill the hole left by Ugoh. Returning to the line will be right guard Robert Felton, a three-year starter with the versatility to play at tackle or center if needed, and All-SEC center Jonathan Luigs who was one of the nation's best offensive lineman a season ago. The Razorbacks will also look to replace left guard Stephen Parker and right tackle Zac Tubbs on the line along with blocking tight end Wes Murphy. Former fullback Mitch Petrus started at left guard in the spring game but will need to add more weight to hold off incoming freshman star Kareem Crowell in the fall. At right tackle, senior Nate Garner brings plenty of game experience and good size while the tight end position may see a shift from being primarily an extra lineman to a more viable pass option with sophomore Andrew Davie. The increased emphasis on the passing game means the Razorbacks will need some of their receivers who aren't named Marcus Monk to become more dependable playmakers. Monk's 50 catches for nearly 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns were impressive but they also made him a target for secondaries who began to double-team the Hogs' top passing target in the more obvious passing situations. Complicating the situation at wide out is the transfer of the Razorbacks' number two receiver Damian Williams. Arkansas tried several players at the spot in the spring including former quarterback Robert Johnson and sophomore London Crawford but will need someone to step up in the fall to give Monk some room to work. What will Arkansas do offensively?: Replacing Gus Malzahn at offensive coordinator will be former Dallas Cowboys assistant David Lee. Lee primary focus thus far has been to improve the Razorbacks' passing attack, primarily through getting the running backs and tight ends more involved as receiving options. The Razorback attack will still be first and foremost a power running game but expect the Hogs to diversify their aerial attack this season. Match-up to watch: Alabama linebackers Prince Hall, Darren Mustin, Ezekial Knight and Keith Saunders vs. Arkansas running backs Darren McFadden and Felix Jones. The big question: Can the Tide's thin defensive front slow down the Razorbacks' powerful ground game? When Alabama has the ball: With just four starters returning from the Razorbacks' superb 2006 unit, there will be plenty of rebuilding to do this fall on the defensive side of the football. The rebuilding starts on the Hogs' front line where they spent the spring shorthanded at defensive tackle with starter Marcus Harrison going out with an ACL tear early in the spring. Harrison's recovery time could stretch into the 2007 season. Though junior Ernest Mitchell brings plenty of experience to the interior for the Hogs, it will be tough to replace the energy and production of Keith Jackson who has moved on to the NFL. At defensive end, the early departure of Jamaal Anderson puts speedy sophomore Malcolm Sheppard in the starting spot opposite junior Antwain Robinson, who missed some of the spring with a hip flexor injury. Sheppard was one of the top performers of the spring being named defensive MVP by the coaching staff and if Robinson can stay out of trouble off the field, the Razorbacks could have a dangerous pair of rush ends in 2007. The linebacker corps suffered similar struggles to the defensive line this spring as it attempted to replace two departed starters while dealing with several key injuries. At the weakside linebacker spot, the Razorbacks must fill the hole left by Sam Olajubutu, one of their most prolific tacklers in years. Stepping in this spring was sophomore Ryan Powers who showed potential but must develop the instincts and toughness the position requires. At the strongside spot, junior Freddie Fairchild was expected to star but missed the spring as he recovered from an ACL injury. Middle linebacker Weston Dacus, who racked up 73 tackles last season, missed the spring game with an injury but is expected to be ready for the fall. Another early departure for the NFL left an opening in the secondary this spring as corner Chris Houston saw his stock soar after a huge year in 2006. Sophomore Jerrell Norton will have a hard time duplicating Houston's productivity but has the ball skills to become a big play corner. On the other side, junior Matterral Richardson steps in with plenty of experience after chalking up 12 pass breakups a year ago. Former linebacker Matt Hewitt moves back to strong safety, his original position, to replace graduated senior Randy Kelly and has the strength and size to handle the position as well as anyone in the SEC. Returning at the free safety spot is Michael Grant who returned in top form this spring after suffering an ACL tear last fall. What will Arkansas do defensively?: Defensive coordinator Reggie Herring fielded one of his strongest defenses yet last season employing a blitz-heavy 4-3 scheme. The Razorbacks do plenty of blitzing from the safety spots as well and aren't afraid to go to man coverage in the secondary to keep the pressure on up front. Match-up to watch: Alabama offensive tackles Andre Smith and Mike Johnson vs. Arkansas defensive ends Antwain Robinson and Malcom Sheppard. The big question: Will the Tide offensive line do a better job of staving off the Razorback pass rush? Arkansas special teams: At punter, Arkansas must replace one of the league's top specialists in graduated Jacob Skinner. Last season's starting placekicker Jeremy Davis will handle the punting duties while true freshman Alex Tejada is expected to contend with Davis for the starting job at placekicker. Jones and McFadden won't just serve as the tailback duo but also as the starting return specialists. 2006 Results 9/2/06 Southern California (L, 14-50) 9/9/06 Utah State (W, 20-0) 9/16/06 @ Vanderbilt (W, 21-19) 9/23/06 Alabama (W, 24-23, OT) 10/7/06 @ Auburn (W, 27-10) 10/14/06 Southeast Missouri (W, 63-7) 10/21/06 Ole Miss (W, 38-3) 10/28/06 Louisiana-Monroe (W, 44-10) 11/4/06 @ South Carolina (W, 26-20) 11/11/06 Tennessee (W, 31-14) 11/18/06 @ Mississippi State (W, 28-14) 11/24/06 LSU (L, 26-31) 12/2/06 SEC Championship vs. Florida (L, 28-3 1/1/07 Capital One Bowl vs. Wisconsin (L, 14-17) 2007 Schedule 9/1/07 Troy 9/15/07 @ Alabama 9/22/07 Kentucky 9/29/07 North Texas 10/6/07 Chattanooga (Little Rock) 10/13/07 Auburn 10/20/07 @ Ole Miss 10/27/07 Florida International 11/3/07 South Carolina 11/10/07 @ Tennessee 11/17/07 Mississippi State (Little Rock) 11/23/07 @ LSU |
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06-18-2007, 09:47 PM
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| Re: Countdown To Kickoff June 8, 2007 Countdown to Kickoff: Georgia Bulldogs Matt Scalici BamaOnLine.com Countdown To Kickoff: A Preview of Alabama's 2007 Opponents Game Four: Georgia at Alabama Where: Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, Ala. When: September 22, 2007 Time/TV: TBA Series record: Alabama leads, 35-24-4. Last meeting: 2003: Alabama 23, Georgia 37 About Georgia 2006 Record: 9-4 (4-4 in SEC) Head Coach: Mark Richt has compiled a won-loss record of 61-17 in six seasons at Georgia. Prior to being hired at Georgia, Richt served as an assistant to Bobby Bowden at Florida State coaching quarterbacks for 11 years (1990-2000) and as offensive coordinator for seven years (1994-2000). Returning Starters: 12 (Offense: 7, Defense: 4, Specialists: 1) 2005 by the numbers: Scoring offense: 25.2 ppg; Pass offense: 184.4 ypg; Rush offense: 127.4 ypg; Total offense: 311.8 ypg; Scoring defense: 17.6 ppg; Pass defense: 150 ypg; Rush defense: 108.2 ypg; Total defense: 258.2 ypg. When Georgia has the ball: The Bulldog offense may be loaded with talent but it also ranks as one of the youngest and least experienced units in the SEC. Embodying the young-but-talented Bulldog offense is its leader, quarterback Matthew Stafford who struggled mightily in 2006 throwing 13 interceptions and 7 touchdowns. Stafford showed major improvement during the spring solidifying his status as the starter and giving the Bulldogs hope that the 2007 offense can be more reliable and productive than its predecessor. Stafford will be forced to rely on a young and inexperienced offensive front this season that will include two freshmen and a junior college transfer among the starting lineup. The Bulldogs' two returning starters, center Fernando Velasco and right tackle Chester Adams, each played guard last season. On the left side, freshmen Trinton Sturdivant and Chris Davis looked impressive in the spring but will start their first games this fall having never played a snap of college football. Junior college transfer Scott Haverkamp earned the starting honors at right guard after competing against plenty of strong competition. The Bulldogs most experienced unit is undoubtedly at running back where senior Kregg Lumpkin has rebounded from his early-career knee injury to grab the starting job. Serving as lead blocker for Lumpkin is junior fullback Brannan Southerland whose versatile skill set makes him arguably the best fullback in the conference. At wide receiver, speedy senior Sean Bailey returns after taking a year off to recover from knee surgery and looked in the spring as if he hadn't lost any of the playmaking ability that made him a deep threat in 2005. Junior Mohamed Massaquoi and senior A.J. Bryant each bring a wealth of starting experience back to the wide receiver corps as well. Tight end has always been a key position in Mark Richt's offense and junior Tripp Chandler figures to step right into the role of multi-talented playmaker this fall. What will Georgia do offensively?: For this first time in his tenure at Georgia, Richt will hand over the playcalling duties to his offensive coordinator, Mike Bobo. Though the offensive philosophy won't likely change much, the Bulldogs ran more three and four wide sets in the spring than in the past and will likely utilize the running backs a fair amount in the passing game as well. The Bulldog staff came out of the spring with a great deal of confidence in Stafford's ability as a passer so look for the same pro-style, well-balanced attack the Bulldogs are known for under Richt. Match-up to watch: Alabama defensive ends Wallace Gilberry and Bobby Greenwood vs. Georgia offensive tackles Trinton Sturdivant and Chester Adams. The big question: How will Stafford handle his first road game of the season in Tuscaloosa? When Alabama has the ball: Like the offense, the Bulldog defense is loaded with tremendously talented players who have yet to prove themselves on the field yet in the SEC. Returning just four starters on defense will be a challenge for the Bulldogs but thanks to the solid program Richt has built, it will likely be a matter of reloading rather than rebuilding. The lack of experience is greatest in the defensive front seven where the Dawgs return just one starter, defensive tackle Jeff Owens. The Bulldogs set out this spring to replace not one but two All-SEC defensive ends. Senior Marcus Howard stepped up despite his diminutive stature at 220 pounds and impressed his coaches this spring with his determination and hard work on every snap. Opposite Howard will be sophomore Roderick Battle who fought off the competition to earn the job in the spring. Working at nose tackle will be sophomore Kade Weston who in six games as a starter last season earned Freshman All-American honors. At linebacker, the Bulldogs must replace all three starters from 2006 including Tony Taylor, Danny Verdun-Wheeler and Jarvis Jackson. Senior Brandon Miller saw playing time at both outside spots last year and this spring took over as the full-time starter in the middle while a pair of inexperienced newcomers earned the starting roles at the outside spots. Sophomore Darius Dewberry saw limited work his freshman year but earned a spot in the starting lineup thanks to a strong spring while redshirt freshman Akeem Dent will anchor the strong side. The experience and leadership on the Bulldog defense lies in the secondary where senior Kelin Johnson and junior C.J. Byrd provide an intimidating presence at safety that ranks among the best in the conference. At corner, the Bulldogs feature four players with plenty of experience including senior playmaker Paul Oliver and sophomore Bryan Evans who started four games last season. Behind the starters, junior Ramarcus Brown and sophomore Asher Allen have each proven themselves on the field and figure to feature heavily in the rotation this year. What will Georgia do defensively?: The Bulldogs employ a traditional 4-3 scheme and allow their safeties plenty of freedom to blitz and play run support. With their strength and experience residing in the secondary, expect Georgia to play plenty of man coverage to help give their young defensive front an opportunity to make plays. Match-up to watch: Alabama wide receivers DJ Hall and Keith Brown vs. Georgia cornerbacks Paul Oliver and Bryan Evans. The big question: Can the Tide's experienced wide receivers hold their own against a physical Georgia secondary? Georgia special teams: The Bulldogs return one of the nation's top placekickers in Brandon Coutu, who Richt has called a legitimate Groza Award candidate after his rebound this spring from a torn-hamstring. At punter, junior Brian Mimbs takes over for long-time star Gordon Ely-Kelso though he'll be challenged in the fall by both Coutu and scholarship freshman Drew Butler. Senior receiver Mikey Henderson handles the punt return duties while corner Asher Allen and running back Knowshon Moreno start at kickoff return. 2006 Results 9/2/06 Western Kentucky (W, 48-12) 9/9/06 @ South Carolina (W, 18-0) 9/16/06 UAB (W, 34-0) 9/23/06 Colorado (W, 14-13) 10/30/06 @ Ole Miss (W, 14-9) 10/7/06 Tennessee (L, 33-51) 10/14/06 Vanderbilt (L, 22-24) 10/21/06 Mississippi State (W, 27-24) 10/28/06 vs. Florida (L, 14-21) 11/4/06 @ Kentucky (L, 20-24) 11/11/06 @ Auburn (W, 37-15) 11/25/06 Georgia Tech (W, 15-12) 12/30/06 Chick Fil-A Bowl vs. Virginia Tech (W, 31-24) 2007 Schedule 9/1/07 Oklahoma State 9/8/07 South Carolina 9/15/07 Western Carolina 9/22/07 @ Alabama 9/29/07 Ole Miss 10/6/07 @ Tennessee 10/13/07 @ Vanderbilt 10/27/07 vs. Florida (Jacksonville) 11/3/07 Troy 11/10/07 Auburn 11/17/07 Kentucky 11/24/07 @ Georgia Tech |
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06-27-2007, 05:13 PM
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| Re: Countdown To Kickoff Countdown to Kickoff: Florida State td.yspwidearticlebody { font-size: 13.5px; }By Matt Scalici, BamaOnLine.com Staff Writer – Rivals.com Countdown To Kickoff: A Preview of Alabama's 2007 Opponents Game Five: Alabama vs. Florida State Where: Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, Fla. When: September 29, 2007 Time/TV: TBA Series record: Alabama leads, 2-0-1. Last meeting: 1974: Alabama 8, Florida State 7 About Florida State 2006 Record: 7-6 (3-5 in ACC) Head Coach: Bobby Bowden has compiled a won-loss record of 293-81-4 in 31 seasons at Florida State. Prior to being hired at Florida State, Bowden served as head coach at Samford College for four seasons (1959-62) at West Virginia for six seasons (1970-75). Returning Starters: 16 (Offense: 6, Defense: 8, Specialists: 2) 2006 by the numbers: Scoring offense: 26.5 ppg; Pass offense: 234 ypg; Rush offense: 97 ypg; Total offense: 330 ypg; Scoring defense: 19.8 ppg; Pass defense: 198 ypg; Rush defense: 93 ypg; Total defense: 291 ypg. When Florida State has the ball: The Seminoles offense struggled in 2006 but with several key starters returning and a new offensive coordinator at the helm, the 'Noles will look to improve their offensive attack in 2007. The biggest question for Florida State lies at quarterback where a hotly contested quarterback battle this spring ended in a dead heat setting up a fierce battle for starting honors this fall between juniors Drew Weatherford and Xavier Lee. An early injury for Lee put Weatherford into the starting role but the sophomore struggled with his accuracy throwing 11 interceptions along with his 12 touchdowns. Turnovers continued to be an issue for both quarterbacks this spring but both showed improvement from last year, according to the Seminole coaching staff. At running back, sophomore Antone Smith stood out last season despite sharing carries with senior Lorenzo Booker and suffering an injury late in the season. This year the Seminoles will look to Smith to become their featured back and improve on last season's lackluster rushing attack that averaged 97 yards per contest. Smith's athleticism and versatility also make him a threat in the slot. Smith racked up 21 catches for 174 yards last year making him the team's third-leading returning receiver. Serving as lead blocker for Smith will be sophomore fullback Seddrick Holloway who beat out returning senior starter Joe Surratt for the position during the spring. Surratt led the Seminoles in rushing touchdowns last season with 6 and won't likely give up the starting role without a fight, meaning there should be plenty of competition and intensity at the fullback position this fall. At wide receiver, the Seminoles must replace graduated Chris Davis but return two more experienced playmakers in Greg Carr and De'Cody Fagg who combined for more than 1,000 yards receiving in 2006. Carr led the team with 12 touchdowns and will be looked to as the go-to receiver on the FSU offense. The offensive line was viewed as an area of weakness on the Seminoles' 2006 squad prompting the hire of former West Virginia O-line guru Rick Trickett. Already Trickett has shaken things up a bit for the unit, unseating two returning starters during spring drills. Former tight end Caz Piurowski beat out last season's 12 game starter at right tackle Shannon Boatman while senior center John Frady, who returns with 21 starts under his belt, was unseated from his starting role by redshirt freshman Ryan McMahon. At left tackle, sophomore Daron Rose replaces the graduated Mario Henderson while junior Dumaka Atkins will step up at right guard to replace three-year starter Cory Niblock. The Seminoles only returning starter to hold onto his starting privileges through the spring was senior left guard Jacky Claude. At tight end, the Seminoles will look to develop more depth when signee Jonathan Hannah arrives in the fall. In the meantime, sophomore Charlie Graham handled starting duties during the spring after playing sparingly in 2006. What will Florida State do offensively?: New offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher comes to Florida State after an extremely successful seven year stint running LSU's offense. Fisher is known for running a well-balanced offensive attack that emphasizes a power running game and smart, efficient play at the quarterback position. Fisher's expertise at developing quarterbacks is widely known around college football and could be exactly what Weatherford and Lee need to become more productive, efficient passers. Match-up to watch: Alabama inside linebackers Prince Hall and Darren Mustin vs. Florida State backs Antone Smith and Seddrick Holloway. The big question: Will Fisher's new offensive approach improve the Seminoles' inconsistent, unreliable offensive attack? When Alabama has the ball: The strength of the Florida State defense lies in the front line where the Seminoles typically boast one of the stingiest rushing defenses in college football nearly every year. This year should be no different as FSU will field one of its most experienced defensive line units in recent years. At defensive end, junior Neefy Moffett's impressive speed makes him one of the most dangerous pass rushers the Tide will face all season. Moffett broke up 3 passes in the backfield last year along with registering 2.5 tackles for loss despite starting just two games last fall. Moffett is backed up by senior Alex Boston who can be a major threat when healthy. At the opposite end spot, sophomore Everette Brown will start after racking up 27 tackles with 3 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss as a redshirt freshman last season. At the tackle spots, the Seminoles are counting on the recovery of senior Paul Griffin, who tore his ACL during the second game of the season last year before he got a chance to showcase the monstrous talent that made him a star on the junior college level. Sophomore Letroy Guion also spent part of the spring dealing with minor injuries but figures to be a major player on the frontline this fall after a 25-tackle debut season. Senior Andre Fluellen will look to anchor the defensive line after an impressive 28-tackle campaign in 2006. At linebacker, the Seminoles have some sizable holes to fill with last year's leading tacklers Buster Davis and Lawrence Timmons departing for the NFL. Weakside linebacker Geno Hayes returns after posting 59 tackles and 3 sacks a year ago while sophomore Dekoda Washington will step into the starting role on the strong side and senior Anthony Kelley returns at the middle linebacker spot after missing much of last season with a separated shoulder. The entire starting lineup returns in the secondary after a somewhat disappointing year in 2006. Cornerbacks Tony Carter and Jamie Robinson showed potential last season with each breaking up several passes and Carter hauling in two interceptions while safety Myron Rolle is the teams leading returning tackler after a 77 tackle freshman season. Playmaking senior Roger Williams holds down the other safety spot and is the most productive of the Seminole defensive backs hauling in four interceptions last season. What will Florida State do defensively?: Defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews has spent the last 25 seasons at Florida State establishing an aggressive, fast-paced defensive attack designed to create big plays and stop opposing running backs in the backfield. The Seminoles will add former NC State head coach Chuck Amato to the staff this year as the linebacker coach replacing the Tide's new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele. Match-up to watch: Alabama wide receivers DJ Hall and Keith Brown vs. Florida State corners Tony Carter and Jamie Robinson. The big question: Will the Seminoles' lack of experience at linebacker give the Tide offense an edge in the running game? Florida State special teams: The Seminoles' special teams unit is generally considered one of the strongest in the country year in and year out. The 'Noles blocked several kicks last season that resulted in returns for points and that team speed and playmaking ability returns this year. Placekicker Gary Cismesia hits 14 of 20 field goal attempts last season including a 53-yarder while punter Graham Gano averaged just over 40 yards last season. At returner, backup cornerback Michael Ray Garvin will take the starting honors after averaging 24 yards per return on kickoffs last season. 2006 Results 9/4/06 @ Miami (W, 13-10) 9/9/06 @ Troy (W, 24-17) 9/16/06 Clemson (L, 20-27) 9/23/06 Rice (W, 55-7) 10/5/06 @ NC State (L, 20-24) 10/14/06 @ Duke (W, 51-24) 10/21/06 Boston College (L, 19-24) 10/28/06 @ Maryland (L, 24-27) 11/4/06 Virginia (W, 33-0) 11/11/06 Wake Forest (L, 0-30) 11/18/06 Western Michigan (W, 28-20) 11/25/06 Florida (L, 14-21) 12/27/06 Emerald Bowl vs. UCLA (W, 44-27) 2007 Schedule 9/3/07 @ Clemson 9/8/07 UAB 9/15/07 @ Colorado 9/29/07 vs. Alabama (Jacksonville) 10/6/07 NC State 10/11/07 @ Wake Forest 10/20/07 Miami 10/27/07 Duke 11/3/07 @ Boston College 11/10/07 @ Virginia Tech 11/17/07 Maryland 11/24/07 @ Florida Updated on Saturday, Jun 16, 2007 6:36 pm EDT |
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07-01-2007, 05:20 PM
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| Re: Countdown To Kickoff 2007 Preview: Houston  Rich CirminielloCollegeFootballNews.com, Updated 11 days ago Full Preview | Offense | Defense | Depth Chart In four seasons, Art Briles has sparked a revival of Houston football, leading the school to three bowl games and last year's Conference USA championship. Now he'll have to prove he can keep the momentum rolling without quarterback Kevin Kolb, the coach's trusted triggerman and undisputed leader of the Cougar rebirth. As much as any player in the country, Kolb was a catalyst and the face of his program's fortunes, confidently running Briles' version of the spread offense since his days at Stephenville (Tex.) High School. Now, in step Blake Joseph and Case Keenum, who have combined to throw just eight career passes. Add in the graduations of top runner Jackie Battle, leading receiver Vincent Marshall and a pair of all-league defenders, and the Cougar caravan could face a temporary detour in 2007. Houston Cougars Team Information Head coach: Art Briles 5th year: 26-24 Returning Lettermen: Off. 23, Def. 26, ST 3 Lettermen Lost: 18 Ten Best Players 1. RB/KR Anthony Alridge, Sr. 2. LB Phillip Hunt, Jr. 3. WR Donnie Avery, Sr. 4. WR Jeron Harvey, Sr. 5. LB Cody Lubojasky, Jr. 6. OG Jeff Akeroyd, Sr. 7. LB Trent Allen, Sr. 8. CB Kenneth Fontenette, Jr. 9. S Rocky Schwartz, Sr. 10. S Ernest Miller, Jr. 2007 Schedule Sept. 1 at Oregon Sept. 15 at Tulane Sept. 22 Colorado State Sept. 29 East Carolina Oct. 6 at Alabama Oct. 13 Rice Oct. 20 at UAB Oct. 27 at UTEP Nov. 4 SMU Nov. 10 at Tulsa Nov. 17 Marshall Nov. 24 Texas Southern With so many changes, Houston figures to lean heavily on an offensive line that returns four starters, two who have earned all-league honors at some point in their careers. Leading the way will be left guard Jeff Akeroyd and right tackle Dustin Dickinson, both of whom earned all-Conference USA recognition in 2006. Until the offense finds its rhythm, the Cougars will rest their fortunes on the veterans in the trenches. Despite the potential for overhauls on both sides of the ball, there's still a glow surrounding the Houston program that comes with winning a title. And while the expectations are dramatically lower than a year ago, who's to say Houston can't contend for another Western Division crown if the young replacements adapt on the fly? Tulsa has a new head coach, UTEP faces a similar rebuilding and Rice, SMU and Tulane are still a rung beneath the Cougs. In other words, the program will be shooting for a second straight title even without its star. What to watch for on offense: Briles' spread offense is complex, diverse and tough to contain when all the parts are working. It is not, however, a system that relies exclusively on the pass, as the perception might indicate. The Cougars actually ran more than they threw in 2006, an ironclad way to keep defenses confused. They'll invent new ways to get the ball to mercurial Anthony Alridge, who averaged more than ten yards a carry last fall, but at 5-9 and 170-pounds, is still a situational player who can't be used in short yardage. As last year's backup, Joseph is the front-runner to supplant Kolb, but a wild card is Al Pena, who's trying to get an NCAA waiver to transfer from Oklahoma State without sitting out a season. What to watch for on defense: The Cougars will continue to work out of a 3-4 alignment in order to leverage their depth at linebacker. Trent Allen, Cody Lubojasky, Rodney Rideau and Brendan Puhulu represent the strength of a defense that was surprisingly opportunistic in 2006. Strong safety Rocky Schwartz, the leading tackler in 2005, returns from knee surgery to bolster a secondary that will be the biggest area of vulnerability. The team will be far better if ... the offensive line allows the new quarterback to develop without being under constant pressure. The Cougar front wall overcame injuries to excel in run blocking a year ago, but also allowed way too many sacks, something a first-year starter won't overcome as easily as Kolb. The Schedule: The defending league champions are testing themselves early, with non-conference games at Oregon and Alabama and a home match with Colorado State, and they give themselves a treat to end the season against Texas Southern. In league play, they miss Southern Miss and get East battles against East Carolina and Marshall at home, but they have the key divisional showdown with Tulsa on the road. Three road games in four weeks won't be easy, but the Cougars close out with three home games in the final four. Best Offensive Player: Senior OG Jeff Akeroyd. The 295-pound senior overcame a knee injury that cost him almost all of 2005 to become one of Conference USA's best lineman and a key reason why Kolb had so much time to work. He's a tremendous pass blocker and a physical run blocker who just now should be hitting his stride. He'll be the one the team works behind. Best Defensive Player: Junior DE Phillip Hunt. After a nice freshman season, the speedy 250-pounder became a star last year, leading the team with seven sacks to go along with 51 tackles. The defense struggled to get pressure throughout last year when he wasn't on, and now he'll be double and triple-teamed to force everyone else to start to make plays. Key player to a successful season: Sophomore QB Blake Joseph. He doesn't have to be Kolb for Houston to win, but he does have to be efficient and must keep the offense moving with both his arm and his legs. With a live arm and good scrambling ability, don't be shocked if he's better than many expect. The season will be a success if ... Houston wins the West again. It won't be easy with the Tulsa game on the road and so much uncertainty at some key spots, but after winning the title, not getting back to the championship game will be a major letdown. Winning the division would prove the program wasn't all Kevin Kolb, while an also-ran season, or worse yet, a non-bowl year, would be a disastrous step back. Key game: Nov. 10 at Tulsa. The Conference USA road slate is as easy as it comes, going to Tulane, UAB, and UTEP, but then it takes a nasty turn with the likely battle for the West title at Tulsa. If the Cougars can win their only November road game, they'll probably be playing for their second straight championship. 2006 Fun Stats: Second quarter scoring: Houston 144; Opponents 125 Sacks: Houston 23 for 138 yards; Opponents 33 for 218 yards Penalties: Houston 95 for 813 yards; Opponents 77 for 617 yards |
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07-01-2007, 05:50 PM
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| Re: Countdown To Kickoff Western Carolina? Was the Alabama school for the deaf and blind unavailable? lol Quote:
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