Good write up by Carroll Rogers talking about our former coach and his family in the AJC.
One nugget that struck me:
Chuck learned about his father’s “I must” from inside the huddle. The third of Driesell’s four children, and only son, was a fixture on the bench “since he could sit up,” Lefty said. He went from ball boy to player at Maryland to nine-year assistant coach to Driesell at James Madison. The only reason he didn’t follow his dad to Georgia State was because of a nepotism rule.
As many of you long time Panther fans know, when Lefty woke up on New Year's Day 2003 and told his wife, I'm done with coaching. The reins were immediately passed to his top assistant Michael Perry (which caused a rift on the coaching staff and possibly within the team) who had 16 years of coaching experience at Virginia Union, Richmond and 5 years on Lefty's bench. I'm not 100% sure that Lefty would have handed it to his son but it's very possible that things may have changed slightly.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
AJC: GSU Offers Johnson County WR Zack Walker
From the AJC's Chip Towers Ten@10:
Another in-state player on Georgia Tech’s radar is Johnson County wide receiver Zach Walker, whose prolific career came to an end in the second round of the Class A playoffs. Georgia High School Football Daily reports that Walker got an offer from Tulane last week and has offers from Western Kentucky, Georgia Southern, Appalachian State, Georgia State and Illinois State. The Yellow Jackets are actively recruiting him but have not offered. Walker, who is not related to Johnson County native Herschel Walker, had 69 catches for 1,187 yards and 18 touchdowns this season.
My take: If Georgia Tech doesn't put an offer in front of Walker, we have a great shot at signing him in February. I've been told he's looking to stay in state.
Another in-state player on Georgia Tech’s radar is Johnson County wide receiver Zach Walker, whose prolific career came to an end in the second round of the Class A playoffs. Georgia High School Football Daily reports that Walker got an offer from Tulane last week and has offers from Western Kentucky, Georgia Southern, Appalachian State, Georgia State and Illinois State. The Yellow Jackets are actively recruiting him but have not offered. Walker, who is not related to Johnson County native Herschel Walker, had 69 catches for 1,187 yards and 18 touchdowns this season.
My take: If Georgia Tech doesn't put an offer in front of Walker, we have a great shot at signing him in February. I've been told he's looking to stay in state.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday Quick Hitters - 11.29.10
Happy Monday Panther Nation! I hope you've cleaned out the Thanksgiving leftovers out of your fridge and your Holiday decorations are hung with care.
Onto the links...
Recruiting Update: As CBC said in his call in show last Monday, we have 8 scholarships to give for the 2011 season prior to academic and football related (playing time, home sick, etc.) attrition. Our official scholarship total is at 55.5. We have one commit in DE Roderick Thompson from Mays HS. We will be updating this each Monday and I'll be giving you my projected breakdown closer to Signing Day.
Recruits Still in the GHSA Playoffs: It's no secret that we are after a Kicker to replace Senior Iain Vance. What's unclear is which kicker(s) we are after. We have mutual interest in both Roswell's Ty Long and Starr's Mill's Ryan Nowicki. The latter will face Tucker this weekend in Final 4 Playoff action.
Even Practice Squad Football Players Make the Paper: Nice Profile of Freshman OL Andrew Newsmith from Forsyth Central HS. Forysth News Link
Onto the links...
Recruiting Update: As CBC said in his call in show last Monday, we have 8 scholarships to give for the 2011 season prior to academic and football related (playing time, home sick, etc.) attrition. Our official scholarship total is at 55.5. We have one commit in DE Roderick Thompson from Mays HS. We will be updating this each Monday and I'll be giving you my projected breakdown closer to Signing Day.
Recruits Still in the GHSA Playoffs: It's no secret that we are after a Kicker to replace Senior Iain Vance. What's unclear is which kicker(s) we are after. We have mutual interest in both Roswell's Ty Long and Starr's Mill's Ryan Nowicki. The latter will face Tucker this weekend in Final 4 Playoff action.
Even Practice Squad Football Players Make the Paper: Nice Profile of Freshman OL Andrew Newsmith from Forsyth Central HS. Forysth News Link
Could GSU Athletics be Making the Switch to Nike?
Could these fill our practice facility for Spring Practice 2011?
Our current Adidas contract is up at the end of the year and it's possible that Georgia State athletics could have a new apparel sponsor as early as Q1 2011 according to some people I've talked to.
All 16 athletic teams are covered under the Adidas apparel deal and only men's golf receives additional sport specific items from its contract with Ping.
My take: With football opening many more doors, this could give us some leveraging power that we haven't heard before in recent years. Only in the last 5 years have we unified our athletic brand and that's a huge credit to Cheryl Levick and her staff. We are seeing more and more Georgia State gear in the marketplace and a partnership that included apparel and a sum of money for athletics tells me we are again building the right way.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Georgia State Falls at Home to Samford 70-61 in OT
This one hurt a little bit and reminded fans of our recent past. Samford, our old rival from the TAAC, came in having played 6 games on the season to the Panthers 3. That game experience and Senior leadership of Andy King, Josh Davis and Josh Bedwell combined with inexplicable fouls by the Panthers late in the game allowed the Bulldogs to climb back from an 11 point second half hole.
Yes, this is one game and this team is learning to win. The current upperclassmen on this team have only seen 13 Division 1 wins in the out of conference schedule the last 3 years so we must continue to be patient with this bunch.
Next: Tuesday at Hampton. Tip is 7:00pm.
Yes, this is one game and this team is learning to win. The current upperclassmen on this team have only seen 13 Division 1 wins in the out of conference schedule the last 3 years so we must continue to be patient with this bunch.
Next: Tuesday at Hampton. Tip is 7:00pm.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Georgia State Beats Utah Valley 69-56
Good win last night at home. Panthers move 2-1 and have won consecutive games.
Compliments from Utah Valley Coach Dick Hunsaker, "Georgia State is athletic and long and it was a tough, physical game."
Next home game is at home on Saturday vs. Samford. We have a size and length advantage again and it should be a good test to see if we can grab our first 3 game win streak in nearly 11 months.
Compliments from Utah Valley Coach Dick Hunsaker, "Georgia State is athletic and long and it was a tough, physical game."
Next home game is at home on Saturday vs. Samford. We have a size and length advantage again and it should be a good test to see if we can grab our first 3 game win streak in nearly 11 months.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
SB Nation: How GSU, KSU and Mercer Football Affect Recruiting
Interesting piece here. No mention that Mercer will go non scholarship and Savannah State may not be long for FCS either with their financial and organizational issues.
SB Nation Link
SB Nation Link
Notes from Coach Curry's Call In Show
Yesterday marked the final Coach Bill Curry Call In Show of 2010 and he gave tremendous insight and mapped out the recruiting process and the offseason while discussing the Alabama game.
Some highlights:
-All of the coaches watched the Alabama film and they were itching to get to the practice field again.
-CBC was disappointed in the games results but the team did not hang their heads, they kept fighting vs. Alabama.
-Spotlighted RT Grant King, TE Arthur 'Bully' Williams and QB Kelton Hill for their play vs. the Crimson Tide.
-Curry looks back fondly on the season and says that he was glad they scheduled the way they did. It would have been easy to schedule "cupcakes" every week and win every game.
-Recruiting Game Plan: Based on current roster, we could sign 8 right now, expects that number to grow to 10-12 (or more) in February (I fully expect some academic and football related attrition). Coach Curry rolled down his wish list: Defensive Line, Safety, Linebacker, Quarterback (Coach Curry's goal is to sign 1 in every cycle) and a Kicker (big loss in Iain Vance but we can sell immediate playing time).
-More Recruiting: Says staff has hit JUCO ranks hard as well as South Carolina, Georgia and South Florida.
-One pretty cool note: The team received a police escort from the Alabama state line to the stadium and then from the stadium to the Georgia state line. That's impressive folks.
Some highlights:
-All of the coaches watched the Alabama film and they were itching to get to the practice field again.
-CBC was disappointed in the games results but the team did not hang their heads, they kept fighting vs. Alabama.
-Spotlighted RT Grant King, TE Arthur 'Bully' Williams and QB Kelton Hill for their play vs. the Crimson Tide.
-Curry looks back fondly on the season and says that he was glad they scheduled the way they did. It would have been easy to schedule "cupcakes" every week and win every game.
-Recruiting Game Plan: Based on current roster, we could sign 8 right now, expects that number to grow to 10-12 (or more) in February (I fully expect some academic and football related attrition). Coach Curry rolled down his wish list: Defensive Line, Safety, Linebacker, Quarterback (Coach Curry's goal is to sign 1 in every cycle) and a Kicker (big loss in Iain Vance but we can sell immediate playing time).
-More Recruiting: Says staff has hit JUCO ranks hard as well as South Carolina, Georgia and South Florida.
-One pretty cool note: The team received a police escort from the Alabama state line to the stadium and then from the stadium to the Georgia state line. That's impressive folks.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Georgia State Drops Troy 80-70
Good win at home and we even our record at 1-1. Wiping the Alabama footballl defeat out of mouth, our fans got to see our young talent led by Harold Doby and Javonte Maynor.
Next up: Home vs. Utah Valley on Tuesday.
Next up: Home vs. Utah Valley on Tuesday.
AJC: GSU looks back at Alabama, ahead at 2011
Great job by our guy Ken as we deal with the fact that we will not see another snap of football until the 1st week of April in the Spring Game.
AJC Link
AJC Link
Georgia State Falls 63-7, Completes Season #1
I just got back as my wife and I stayed in Birmingham and both of us worked this morning. I could not be more proud of this team. Yes, there were negatives from last night but the game proved to our players that the off season begins today and work is to be done.
Last Night's Game helped in many ways but I believe 3 of the most important:
1. Recruiting - It's absolutely crucial to let recruits know we are not afraid to play anyone, ever. We want the best, to play against the best.
2. Off Season Strength & Conditioning: Can you imagine this game tape or highlights in our weight room? Guys finishing a set or thinking about this game as they prepare for spring practice, will be more motivated and understand that they have to be physically dominant in order to prepare and compete at that level. Our Front 7 and starting OL will make gains this off season, I can assure you.
3. Fundraising: I had the privelege of sitting near some of our larger donors and last night got our alums motivated to say, "We need your help." I'm all in folks, we have a product that is worthy to carry the Georgia State name and we need our alums to rally around this team this off season and into 2011.
This puts a cap on football season and we finished 6-5. Absolutely fantastic and it is going to be a fun ride.
Last Night's Game helped in many ways but I believe 3 of the most important:
1. Recruiting - It's absolutely crucial to let recruits know we are not afraid to play anyone, ever. We want the best, to play against the best.
2. Off Season Strength & Conditioning: Can you imagine this game tape or highlights in our weight room? Guys finishing a set or thinking about this game as they prepare for spring practice, will be more motivated and understand that they have to be physically dominant in order to prepare and compete at that level. Our Front 7 and starting OL will make gains this off season, I can assure you.
3. Fundraising: I had the privelege of sitting near some of our larger donors and last night got our alums motivated to say, "We need your help." I'm all in folks, we have a product that is worthy to carry the Georgia State name and we need our alums to rally around this team this off season and into 2011.
This puts a cap on football season and we finished 6-5. Absolutely fantastic and it is going to be a fun ride.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Alabama Gameday!
Welcome to Thursday, November 18th! For most of our country, this is just the Thursday before Thanksgiving. For Panther Nation, this is the day we take on the #12 Alabama Crimson Tide at vaunted Bryant Denny Stadium.
I hope you enjoy it as my wife and I will be in the building tonight!
See you in Tuscaloosa!
I hope you enjoy it as my wife and I will be in the building tonight!
See you in Tuscaloosa!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Talking GSU vs. Alabama with RollBamaRoll.com - Part II
Part II where I answer Paul of RBR's questions:
http://www.rollbamaroll.com/2010/11/16/1816655/georgia-state-blogger-q-a
http://www.rollbamaroll.com/2010/11/16/1816655/georgia-state-blogger-q-a
Talking GSU vs. Alabama with RollBamaRoll.com
PantherTalk.com: How do Tide fans view this game? The reason I ask is when it was announced many Tide fans groaned. When it was moved by Alabama even more were upset because it was a rare weeknight game in Tuscaloosa.
PH: I think some 'Bama fans are upset about the scheduling of the game on a Thursday night throwing a kink in their normal weekend routines and travel plans, but on the whole I don't think there are any great complaints here. Admittedly scheduling a Division 1-AA upstart is not the most intriguing match-up for late November, but clearly the idea is to create as easy of a game as possible to help preparations for the Iron Bowl. I think the bulk of the fan base, while not overly excited about the opponent or the date, realizes that this is probably a necessary evil.
PantherTalk.com: What do you believe Saban's plan for the game will be? I beleive the Mississippi State will likely be a very physical battle and you guys already have a few players, including Trent Richardson and others on defense knicked up before facing Auburn 8 days later.
PH: I would expect a pretty vanilla game plan where we attempt to do those things that we normally do on both sides of the football. I'm sure we'll try to establish a big lead early and then pull the starters from there. A year ago in this game against Tennessee-Chattanooga, the starters played the first half but few saw action in the second half, and I would imagine that is the ideal scenario for our coaching staff again this year. I think you might see some extra precaution with a few players that are ailing -- Trent Richardson will be unlikely to play, for example, even though he probably could if absolutely necessary -- and clearly the goal is self-preservation with the Auburn game eight days away.
PantherTalk.com: What are fans saying about Bill Curry's return? His last game in Tuscaloosa was a 35-7 loss in 1996 when he was coaching Kentucky (his last year with the Wildcats).
PH: Justified or not, the bulk of the UA fan base has never liked Curry for a variety of reasons. Having said that, though, Curry hasn't coached at Alabama in over 20 years now, and for the most part it's largely irrelevant. Most fans thirty-five and under have little or no memory of Curry's three seasons in Tuscaloosa, and the ones who can remember it vividly have probably moved on at this point. I doubt any tears will be shed if Curry gets taken to the woodshed once again like he did in 1996, but I honestly don't think anyone will really care all that much one way or the other. The goal is to win the game with as little effort and human cost as possible, and anything involving Curry is just a sideshow at best.
PantherTalk.com: Has Georgia State gained any respect in Tide's fans eyes since the preseason after taking Jacksonville State in OT in Week 3 and not showing that they'll roll over and die like many expected this first year program to do?
PH: I think those that have really paid attention to Georgia State this season are probably a bit surprised that there haven't been quite as many struggles as you typically expect with start-up programs, and at this point I really don't think that anyone legitimately expects them to just roll over for us. Having said that, though, that still doesn't change the fact that we are probably one of the best ten or fifteen teams in the country and that anyone in that position should handle a Division 1-AA upstart with ease, even if they have surprised some people in their inaugural season. I don't think anyone lacks respect as much as they just have a legitimate expectation for how this game should turn out.
5. We are expecting approx. 7500 Georgia State fans in Tuscaloosa next week and would love some insight on seeing one of college football's legendary stadiums. What are your best bets for fans to see while in town? Best places to eat/visit?
PH: In terms of college football history, a stop by the Bryant Museum is an absolute must. For food, my suggestion is Dreamland, but there are quite a few other places worth trying like the Waysider for breakfast or Chuck's for a bit more of a pricey meal. A lot of people prefer Archibald's in Northport for BBQ, but you really cannot go wrong either way. If you're looking for a drink, the best bet is to go to the Strip given its proximity to Bryant-Denny Stadium, and if you can make sure you hit up Egan's. Tell 'em you found out about them through RBR.
Thanks again to Paul and check out the best Alabama fan site on the web. RBR Link
Monday, November 15, 2010
AL.com: 5 Questions with CBC
Great read as always. These questions were from a teleconference with writers that cover Alabama.
AL.com Link
AL.com Link
One Man, One Team, Many Signs
Big ups to our guy Justin C getting love on the Georgia State Sports homepage.
Thanks for the name drop to PantherTalk.com.
Read all about Justin and signs. GSU Sports Link
Thanks for the name drop to PantherTalk.com.
Read all about Justin and signs. GSU Sports Link
AJC: "Tuscaloosa Defines GSU football"
Founding Fathers: Tony Henry, Mike Jamal, Preston Stancil and me
Photo Courtesy of Michelle Hiskey
Great work by the AJC's Michelle Hiskey. Your humble writer gets a mention as well. For many of you that don't know, I've been down with Georgia State football for a long time.
AJC Link
Sunday, November 14, 2010
It's Really Tuesday?
Good Morning and Happy Football Tuesday!
Before many of you wonder what I'm drinking in my coffee, our football team practiced is practicing this morning and installing the Alabama gameplan.
Football season ends on Thursday at Alabama and it's been a very successful winter sports season.
*One quick non-football note: Volleyball ended their season yesterday with a 3-1 loss to Delaware wrapping up their best campaign since 2005 finishing 14-14 and 8-5 in CAA play.
Before many of you wonder what I'm drinking in my coffee, our football team practiced is practicing this morning and installing the Alabama gameplan.
Football season ends on Thursday at Alabama and it's been a very successful winter sports season.
*One quick non-football note: Volleyball ended their season yesterday with a 3-1 loss to Delaware wrapping up their best campaign since 2005 finishing 14-14 and 8-5 in CAA play.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Clark Atlanta Shocks GSU 56-53 in OT
Not the way you want to ride the momentum wave from the football team. Take a breath everyone. Eight newcomers and Barnes played 12 players tonight and exhibition games are used to work on rotations and see what players need to be played.
Good: Eric Buckner scored 7 points and grabbed 12 boards. That's an impressive debut.
Bad: Team Captains Marques Johnson and Jihad Ali did not shoot the ball well and combined for 18 points on 24 shots.
Ugly: James Fields got the nod to start and was awful. No way to sugar coat 0-6 on his FG attempts and 6 turnovers. There is a reason why he's a bench player and defensive specialist.
Next Game: Panthers travel to McNeese State next Tuesday. Gametime is 8pm.
Good: Eric Buckner scored 7 points and grabbed 12 boards. That's an impressive debut.
Bad: Team Captains Marques Johnson and Jihad Ali did not shoot the ball well and combined for 18 points on 24 shots.
Ugly: James Fields got the nod to start and was awful. No way to sugar coat 0-6 on his FG attempts and 6 turnovers. There is a reason why he's a bench player and defensive specialist.
Next Game: Panthers travel to McNeese State next Tuesday. Gametime is 8pm.
AJC: ESPN Gameday Crew to cover 'Bama game
Great work by Ken to grab this.
Other tidbits:
-ILB Olefemi Opanubi was ruled out for the year but has been running and cutting.
-P Bo Schlechter is pretty much a go for the game.
-Practice until Saturday will be harder for back ups and younger guys. Great experience for the players and great opportunity for the back ups to get 1st team reps.
AJC Link
Other tidbits:
-ILB Olefemi Opanubi was ruled out for the year but has been running and cutting.
-P Bo Schlechter is pretty much a go for the game.
-Practice until Saturday will be harder for back ups and younger guys. Great experience for the players and great opportunity for the back ups to get 1st team reps.
AJC Link
Georgia State vs. Clark Atlanta - Preview & Prediction
Georgia State Men's Basketball vs. Clark Atlanta
Georgia State Sports Arena
Radio: WRAS 88.5
Off the Bounce: We get a peek at the men's basketball team tonight at home for their only exhibition vs. Clark Atlanta. 8 newcomers, 1 returning starter. Expectations are low for Coach Rod Barnes and this team. I just have a funny feeling about this team and they way the Bahamas trip helped them. I get the sense that they actually like each other and that's a huge thing in basketball. During the Transfer Experiment/Failure of the last two seasons (team went 24-40 overall and finished 8th and 9th, respectively, in the CAA standings) it seems like guys didn't know their roles and seemed a little out of place. I'm more confident that this team will suprise some people. How big of a suprise is up to the coaching staff and the development of our newcomers.
About Clark Atlanta: This is a very good Division II team that went 24-7 last season. Just how good? They nearly pulled off a stunner at Georgia Tech last week (and got the Fire Paul Hewitt groupies going again) and bowed out in OT by 3 points. Was Tech ready for a potent two guard attack that the Panthers of CAU brought? Probably not. Coaches tend to view exhibitions as roll the ball out there and let's beat the other team by 30+. We don't have the same luxury. Clark begins and ends with their dynamic guards: 6'4, 195lbs Najee Lane and 6'4, 190lbs David Brown (who happens to be the twin brother of GSU walk on Daniel Brown and younger brother of former GSU star Marcus Brown). They combined for 44 points and hit 6 threes between them.
Projected Starting Lineup:
PG - Marques Johnson
SG - James Fields
SF - Jihad Ali
PF - Brandon McGee
C - Eric Buckner
Prediction: I fully expect Barnes to press this team and run a multiple defensive set to get the ball out of Brown's hands (he's actually the better outside shooter). Expect Brown to know what Boom (James Fields) had for breakfast, lunch and dinner because he will get a face full. Clark is not as deep as Georgia State and I expect Buckner and Vincent off the bench to pound the middle. I expect a 70-54 win by the Panthers of Georgia State.
Georgia State Sports Arena
Radio: WRAS 88.5
Off the Bounce: We get a peek at the men's basketball team tonight at home for their only exhibition vs. Clark Atlanta. 8 newcomers, 1 returning starter. Expectations are low for Coach Rod Barnes and this team. I just have a funny feeling about this team and they way the Bahamas trip helped them. I get the sense that they actually like each other and that's a huge thing in basketball. During the Transfer Experiment/Failure of the last two seasons (team went 24-40 overall and finished 8th and 9th, respectively, in the CAA standings) it seems like guys didn't know their roles and seemed a little out of place. I'm more confident that this team will suprise some people. How big of a suprise is up to the coaching staff and the development of our newcomers.
About Clark Atlanta: This is a very good Division II team that went 24-7 last season. Just how good? They nearly pulled off a stunner at Georgia Tech last week (and got the Fire Paul Hewitt groupies going again) and bowed out in OT by 3 points. Was Tech ready for a potent two guard attack that the Panthers of CAU brought? Probably not. Coaches tend to view exhibitions as roll the ball out there and let's beat the other team by 30+. We don't have the same luxury. Clark begins and ends with their dynamic guards: 6'4, 195lbs Najee Lane and 6'4, 190lbs David Brown (who happens to be the twin brother of GSU walk on Daniel Brown and younger brother of former GSU star Marcus Brown). They combined for 44 points and hit 6 threes between them.
Projected Starting Lineup:
PG - Marques Johnson
SG - James Fields
SF - Jihad Ali
PF - Brandon McGee
C - Eric Buckner
Prediction: I fully expect Barnes to press this team and run a multiple defensive set to get the ball out of Brown's hands (he's actually the better outside shooter). Expect Brown to know what Boom (James Fields) had for breakfast, lunch and dinner because he will get a face full. Clark is not as deep as Georgia State and I expect Buckner and Vincent off the bench to pound the middle. I expect a 70-54 win by the Panthers of Georgia State.
(Updated) Basketball Recruiting: Signing Day!
Good Morning and Happy Thursday!
Football takes a bit of a backseat yesterday as our men's and women's basketball programs are expected to receive National Letters of Intent today.
Pressley Link from Scout.com as of two weeks ago:
Sporting the flat-top fade haircut, Pressley finished with a couple monster dunks that almost brought the backboard down. He was a force in the paint, swatting shots left and right and pulling down boards. Named MVP of 2011 game. Needs to work on a 8-10 foot jump shot to add to his arsenal. Scout.com Link
Women's Team:
SG Brittany Johnson of Southside High School in Ft. Wayne, Indiana signed yesterday. She is a 5'9 guard is the younger sister of starting men's basketball PG Marques Johnson. Johnson chose the Panthers over IUPUI, Western Michigan and Xavier. From the Ft. Wayne Journal-Gazette, Johnson: "It makes me comfortable, and I’ll work harder now because it isn’t like I am working for just one person, but I am working for Georgia State and South Side, so I have to represent both sides."
"My mom (Dawn) and my brother had everything planned out, but they wanted it to be my decision," said Johnson, who scored eight points against the Patriots. "It helped my brother is down there, but I wasn’t even looking at the program three years ago. It just happened this summer, and they came to watch me. I feel comfortable with them."
10.11.10 Update - Video on Brittany's signing: YouTube Link
Also signing is 5'8 PG Kayla Nolan out of Duluth HS. She signed at a ceremony at her school to sign her LOI.
Welcome to the family Jervon, Brittany and Kayla!
Football takes a bit of a backseat yesterday as our men's and women's basketball programs are expected to receive National Letters of Intent today.
Updated as of 4:00pm: PF Jervon Pressley of E.E Waddell High School in Charlotte, North Carolina signed his LOI yesterday at a ceremony at his school. He's very excited about becoming a Panther: "[I'm] now a GSU (Georgia State University) bound PF!!!
This is arguably Coach Rod Barnes' highest profile signee in his 4 years on campus. Pressley is a 6'8, 220lbs power forward with incredible athleticism, strong hands and a body frame to add 10-15 lbs.
Pressley Link from Scout.com as of two weeks ago:
Sporting the flat-top fade haircut, Pressley finished with a couple monster dunks that almost brought the backboard down. He was a force in the paint, swatting shots left and right and pulling down boards. Named MVP of 2011 game. Needs to work on a 8-10 foot jump shot to add to his arsenal. Scout.com Link
Women's Team:
"My mom (Dawn) and my brother had everything planned out, but they wanted it to be my decision," said Johnson, who scored eight points against the Patriots. "It helped my brother is down there, but I wasn’t even looking at the program three years ago. It just happened this summer, and they came to watch me. I feel comfortable with them."
10.11.10 Update - Video on Brittany's signing: YouTube Link
Also signing is 5'8 PG Kayla Nolan out of Duluth HS. She signed at a ceremony at her school to sign her LOI.
Welcome to the family Jervon, Brittany and Kayla!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Coastal Carolina added to 2011 Football Schedule
The Chanticleers will host us in 2011
According to several people I've talked to, Coastal Carolina has been added to the football schedule for the next 2 years. We will play them at "The Beach" in 2011 and they return in 2012.
My take: I really like this series and they will return to the Dome which is important. They are struggling a little this season going 4-5 but draw nearly 9,000 fans. These are the kinds of games that I expect for us to continue with moving forward.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Coach Bill Curry on Twitter
As many of you know, Coach Curry is on Twitter several times a week. This week is particularly interesting as he is walking down memory lane a little with the conclusion of our first year ending in a place he used to coach.
I'd encourage you to jump on board and check out CBC's Tweets @ CoachBillCurry.
I'd encourage you to jump on board and check out CBC's Tweets @ CoachBillCurry.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Monday Quick Hitters - 11.9.10
Good Afternoon and Happy Monday Panther Nation!
I hope you enjoyed the last home game of the season and it was certainly exciting and gut wrenching all at once. Glad to have clinched a winning year and a winning record at home. Absolutely awesome.
In my preview, I highlighted the turnover battle (which was even), our ability to jump to an early lead (which we did 10-0) and playing well against the pass (eh, not so much). A clutch play by Jamal Ransby and a good final stand by the D clinched it.
The Panthers will have until Wednesday off and will begin preparations for FBS #12 Alabama.
On to the Links...
Media Recap the Lamar win: A great job, as always, by our guy CT for compiling these. GSU Link
Georgia State as the Example? As many of you may know, Kennesaw State announced that it was going to be playing football. Now it's the funding portion that is up to a student vote today. Let's just say the faculty and alumni are not as excited as we were back in 2007 and 2008. AJC Link
Georgia State Attendance 'Excellent' in 1st Season: Good work by our guy Ken at the AJC. AJC Link
I hope you enjoyed the last home game of the season and it was certainly exciting and gut wrenching all at once. Glad to have clinched a winning year and a winning record at home. Absolutely awesome.
In my preview, I highlighted the turnover battle (which was even), our ability to jump to an early lead (which we did 10-0) and playing well against the pass (eh, not so much). A clutch play by Jamal Ransby and a good final stand by the D clinched it.
The Panthers will have until Wednesday off and will begin preparations for FBS #12 Alabama.
On to the Links...
Media Recap the Lamar win: A great job, as always, by our guy CT for compiling these. GSU Link
Georgia State as the Example? As many of you may know, Kennesaw State announced that it was going to be playing football. Now it's the funding portion that is up to a student vote today. Let's just say the faculty and alumni are not as excited as we were back in 2007 and 2008. AJC Link
Georgia State Attendance 'Excellent' in 1st Season: Good work by our guy Ken at the AJC. AJC Link
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Panthers Beat Lamar 23-17, Clinch Winning Season
Best: Win the win vs. the Cardinals, Georgia State clinches a winning season in it's first season of existence. This is an incredible feat and a credit to Coach Curry, his staff and the football training staff for keeping these guys healthy and ready to go for 10 straight weeks.
Good: We answered the bell. After grabbing a 13-3 lead, the Panthers absorbed a 14 point barrage capt off by a pick 6 on a good read by the Lamar CB. As John Bond said in the post game interviews, Drew put it exactly where the coaching staff told him too. No blame there. Drew responded by absolutely making play after play and the game of football smiled on us a little with the tipped pass into Arthur Williams' hands.
Disappointment of the day: Tough way to send the 5 seniors off. I was mildy disappointed in the crowd support. Georgia Tech played on Thursday (and we actually had a few Tech football players in attendance as guests of Gilbert and Yandell) and Georgia was playing an opponent that both Lamar and Georgia State would likely beat. I actually brought 3 people who had never been to a football game before and I'd encourage you to do the same next season.
Next up: The Panthers will not get back together until Wednesday and have this upcoming Saturday off before heading to Tuscaloosa on Wednesday, November 17th for our contest on Thursday night. Sleep well Panther Nation!
Good: We answered the bell. After grabbing a 13-3 lead, the Panthers absorbed a 14 point barrage capt off by a pick 6 on a good read by the Lamar CB. As John Bond said in the post game interviews, Drew put it exactly where the coaching staff told him too. No blame there. Drew responded by absolutely making play after play and the game of football smiled on us a little with the tipped pass into Arthur Williams' hands.
Disappointment of the day: Tough way to send the 5 seniors off. I was mildy disappointed in the crowd support. Georgia Tech played on Thursday (and we actually had a few Tech football players in attendance as guests of Gilbert and Yandell) and Georgia was playing an opponent that both Lamar and Georgia State would likely beat. I actually brought 3 people who had never been to a football game before and I'd encourage you to do the same next season.
Next up: The Panthers will not get back together until Wednesday and have this upcoming Saturday off before heading to Tuscaloosa on Wednesday, November 17th for our contest on Thursday night. Sleep well Panther Nation!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Georgia State vs. Lamar - Preview & Prediction
Georgia State vs. Lamar
Kickoff: 1:00pm Georgia Dome
Radio: WCFO 1160 AM, WRAS 88.5
2) Can the Panthers jump on early and hit the gas? In both the ODU and South Alabama games, the Panthers were outscored 47-0 in the 2nd quarter. Lamar has been outscored 76-15. Get in your seat and expect some action early tomorrow.
3) Can the Panthers continue to play great vs. the pass? ODU threw 38 times for 152 yards. South Alabama threw 21 times for 181 yards. That's tremendous pass coverage and not giving up the big play. With the injuries to ILB Olefemi Opanubi we will continue to keep the ball in front and roll our safeties back.
Georgia State Wins If...
They can keep the offense rolling and value the football. Drew has thrown for 648 yards and 5 total TDs in his last 2 games. He's ended his pass without an INT streak but it's time to start a new one (currently at 16 passes but you didn't need to know that, did you?).
Lamar Wins If...
They are opportunistic and hope for a low scoring, sluggish affair. This could also be the best game of the year running the football as the Panther run defense has sprung major leaks in the last few weeks. Don't see it happening for the Cardinals, though.
Georgia State Checklist:
1) Pound the football - The Panthers could not move the football vs. ODU or South Alabama on the ground but I expect to see a concerted effort to get our running game off. Lamar runs a 4-3 and will be facing a front 7 that weighs a combined 1677lbs. That ranks them lighter than ODU but heavier than Savannah State as our opponents go.
2) Make the Cardinals uncomfortable early - We were able to essentially stymie South Alabama in the 2nd half and only allowed 3 field goals. I expect Lamar to face a very agressive defense and constantly changing looks.
3) Take shots down the field - Danny Williams has been sensational but I believe that we can absolutely take advantage of a defensive backfield that is giving up 230 yards per game through the air and have only forced opponents into 4 INTs.
The Roar
Georgia State will conclude its 7 game home schedule and will honor 5 seniors. Those Seniors are: Walk-On WR Charles Borowsky, Back up Safety Hubert Davis, Back up ILB Trey Ennis, Punter / Holder Brandon Lupo and Kicker Iain Vance. The Panthers will be without Punter Bo Schletcher for this game and have announced that ILB Olefemi Opanubi will be out for the rest of the year with a partially torn meniscus.
Prediction: Georgia State 31, Lamar 13
Kickoff: 1:00pm Georgia Dome
Radio: WCFO 1160 AM, WRAS 88.5
Quick Slant: The Panthers play their final home game on Senior Day after fighting back for a second week in a row before falling 39-34 to South Alabama. Lamar is coming off a 31-6 loss at North Dakota. This will be the first time that two first year programs will take the field this year on the floor of the Dome. Lamar is restarting football after closing the program down in 1989. The Panthers are aiming to clinch a winning season before next week's BYE week.
About Lamar: Lamar is 3-5 (1-5 vs. FCS opponents) on the season and has had struggles moving the ball on offense. They've beaten two NAIA schools and only average 13.8 point per game. The Cardinals will start JUCO Transfer from Navarro JC Andre Bevil and he's their best player having thrown for for 240 yards per game and can dodge pressure with his feet. Bevil does a very good spreading the ball around to his Top 3 WR targets: 6'3, 205lbs WR JJ Hayes, 6'1 195lbs WR Marcus Jackson and 5'9 170lbs WR Josh Powdrill. All 3 were JUCO teammates of Bevil at Navarro and they've combined for 95 catches and 1371 and 12 TDs. Jackson is the deep threat with Hayes as primary possesion, move the chains guy. 5'6 170lbs RB RB Octavios Logan has struggled on the ground but is a threat on kick returns averaging 24 yards per return and is their leading all purposed threat. 6'0, 210lbs LB Asim Hicks is their leading tackler and has 3 sacks which lead the team.
What to Watch:
1) Can the Panthers win the turnover battle? Lamar has been awful this year taking care of the football. They are a cumulative -10 with 14 INTs and 10 fumbles lost (22 fumbles total). The team that wins the turnover battle should win this game.
3) Can the Panthers continue to play great vs. the pass? ODU threw 38 times for 152 yards. South Alabama threw 21 times for 181 yards. That's tremendous pass coverage and not giving up the big play. With the injuries to ILB Olefemi Opanubi we will continue to keep the ball in front and roll our safeties back.
Georgia State Wins If...
They can keep the offense rolling and value the football. Drew has thrown for 648 yards and 5 total TDs in his last 2 games. He's ended his pass without an INT streak but it's time to start a new one (currently at 16 passes but you didn't need to know that, did you?).
Lamar Wins If...
They are opportunistic and hope for a low scoring, sluggish affair. This could also be the best game of the year running the football as the Panther run defense has sprung major leaks in the last few weeks. Don't see it happening for the Cardinals, though.
Georgia State Checklist:
1) Pound the football - The Panthers could not move the football vs. ODU or South Alabama on the ground but I expect to see a concerted effort to get our running game off. Lamar runs a 4-3 and will be facing a front 7 that weighs a combined 1677lbs. That ranks them lighter than ODU but heavier than Savannah State as our opponents go.
2) Make the Cardinals uncomfortable early - We were able to essentially stymie South Alabama in the 2nd half and only allowed 3 field goals. I expect Lamar to face a very agressive defense and constantly changing looks.
3) Take shots down the field - Danny Williams has been sensational but I believe that we can absolutely take advantage of a defensive backfield that is giving up 230 yards per game through the air and have only forced opponents into 4 INTs.
The Roar
Georgia State will conclude its 7 game home schedule and will honor 5 seniors. Those Seniors are: Walk-On WR Charles Borowsky, Back up Safety Hubert Davis, Back up ILB Trey Ennis, Punter / Holder Brandon Lupo and Kicker Iain Vance. The Panthers will be without Punter Bo Schletcher for this game and have announced that ILB Olefemi Opanubi will be out for the rest of the year with a partially torn meniscus.
Prediction: Georgia State 31, Lamar 13
Weekend Predictions Pouring In
Good Morning and Happy Day Before Gameday!
I'll have Preview & Prediction up before lunch time but wanted to give you a few writer's predictions for our game vs. Lamar.
AJC: Jeff Schultz: Lamar at Georgia State: Lamar returned to college football after dropping it 21 years ago. That’s an even longer layoff than Bill Curry had. Panthers cover 14. AJC Link
Augusta Chronicle: Scott Michaux: Lamar @ Georgia State: Lamar got skunked by South Alabama. Georgia State nearly beat them. Good enough analysis for me. Panthers 24, Cardinals 7 AC Link
The Record (Orange County, Texas): GEORGIA STATE over LAMAR—Georgia State was barely nipped by South Alabama last weekend and South Alabama put a pretty good-sized knot on the Cardinals’ head a couple weeks ago. The Redbirds need to have two good halves of football to be competitive against these opponents outside of the Southland Conference. Record Link
I'll have Preview & Prediction up before lunch time but wanted to give you a few writer's predictions for our game vs. Lamar.
AJC: Jeff Schultz: Lamar at Georgia State: Lamar returned to college football after dropping it 21 years ago. That’s an even longer layoff than Bill Curry had. Panthers cover 14. AJC Link
Augusta Chronicle: Scott Michaux: Lamar @ Georgia State: Lamar got skunked by South Alabama. Georgia State nearly beat them. Good enough analysis for me. Panthers 24, Cardinals 7 AC Link
The Record (Orange County, Texas): GEORGIA STATE over LAMAR—Georgia State was barely nipped by South Alabama last weekend and South Alabama put a pretty good-sized knot on the Cardinals’ head a couple weeks ago. The Redbirds need to have two good halves of football to be competitive against these opponents outside of the Southland Conference. Record Link
Thursday, November 4, 2010
AJC: GSU Football feeling Rejuventated
Ah, my favorite verb. Rejuventate: to make young again; restore to youthful vigor, appearance, etc. Also, to restore to a former state; make fresh or new again.
Good work by Ken at the AJC.
AJC Link
Good work by Ken at the AJC.
AJC Link
AJC: Q&A with WR Danny Williams
Spectacular catch right in front of my seats vs. Morehead State.
AJC Link
GSU Tradition Takes Another Step: Panther Walk
From GSU Sports Communications:
Panther Walk
Panther Fans! Come help cheer on the GSU football team as they enter the Georgia Dome for the final home game of the inaugural season on Nov. 6th vs. Lamar. Simply put, the “Panther Walk” entails the football team walking through a gauntlet of fans and cheerleaders to enter the Georgia Dome. It takes place between 10:45 - 10:55 AM outside of Gate E of the Georgia Dome. The Panther Walk has grown each week and is another great way to show your support for the Panthers!
Panther Walk
Panther Fans! Come help cheer on the GSU football team as they enter the Georgia Dome for the final home game of the inaugural season on Nov. 6th vs. Lamar. Simply put, the “Panther Walk” entails the football team walking through a gauntlet of fans and cheerleaders to enter the Georgia Dome. It takes place between 10:45 - 10:55 AM outside of Gate E of the Georgia Dome. The Panther Walk has grown each week and is another great way to show your support for the Panthers!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Virginian-Pilot: Expect some changes in CAA football's future
From the well duh department: "As a football conference, the Colonial Athletic Association will look different in the coming years."
Rich Radford makes the case for Charlotte (which would be good for us in the short term and likely keep us in the South) to join the CAA as a football only member.
Virginian-Pilot Link
Rich Radford makes the case for Charlotte (which would be good for us in the short term and likely keep us in the South) to join the CAA as a football only member.
Virginian-Pilot Link
Montgomery Advertiser: Coach Curry didn't fire Steve Spurrier
If you follow history, you realize that Georgia Tech blew out the entire staff including Spurrier.
Pretty good read as CBC was in Montgomery last night for the QB Club Meeting.
Montgomery Advertiser LINK
Pretty good read as CBC was in Montgomery last night for the QB Club Meeting.
Montgomery Advertiser LINK
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Today was an important day for GSU Football
We've basically put the cabash on FBS talk on PantherTalk.com message boards recently and for good reason. It was getting just plain nuts. Many of those (including your humble blogger) who know how we are building and the potential is there.
So the title of this post indicates that today is especially important. I'll tell you why in a second.
I recently said the next 12-24 months will be extremely fascinating for those who follow our program. We are building and preparing for the CAA in 2012. There is some debate whether there will be a conference to join because of the expected pending move of Rhode Island to the NEC and Villanova to the Big East.
Speaking of the Big East (see I told you I'd get to the point): Today the conference presidents voted to go forward with an expansion plan that would increase the football playing membership from eight to 10 teams. From ESPN.com: "The cheers you heard were from athletic directors and coaches at the football schools, who long had wanted to add teams to help with scheduling. The Big East has survived as an eight-team league since 2005, but as the Big Ten and Pac-10 have expanded and more possible conference re-alignment in the future looms, the conference knew it had to get bigger or face extinction."
Read more via the ESPN.com Link
So you ask yourself, self what could this mean? Is Georgia State headed to the Big East? Not so fast, my friend (as the Sunshine Scooter Lee Corso would say).
First in line is likely the aforementioned Villanova. They have the plan in place and are the only non-football members of the Big East that is prepared to dive in head first. The next spot would be for the most attractive. There are rumors about TCU making a bid (leaving the WAC), Houston or Central Florida (leaving Conference USA) or even Temple (leaving the MAC). I believe it will likely be Temple as they are a hot team right now and have locked up another winning season after taking over a greasefire.
So then what? CAA football loses a member (likely 2 with URI moving on) and so does the MAC (which is not an attractive landing spot). What happens in 2014 when the current BCS agreement expires? I believe the Plus One game (1 vs. 4, 2 vs. 3 and the winner in the BCS Title game the following week) is all but a formality. Again, what does that has to do with us?
The Big East will absolutely want to expand either to 12 or 16 teams by the time the BCS agreement is up. Whether that want develops into a plan, is another question but this is only the first step. If they look into emerging programs from Conference USA or the Sun Belt to fill those spots, guess what just opened up? Yep. Spots on the board. You do the math but I believe once again, patience is our best friend.
So the title of this post indicates that today is especially important. I'll tell you why in a second.
I recently said the next 12-24 months will be extremely fascinating for those who follow our program. We are building and preparing for the CAA in 2012. There is some debate whether there will be a conference to join because of the expected pending move of Rhode Island to the NEC and Villanova to the Big East.
Speaking of the Big East (see I told you I'd get to the point): Today the conference presidents voted to go forward with an expansion plan that would increase the football playing membership from eight to 10 teams. From ESPN.com: "The cheers you heard were from athletic directors and coaches at the football schools, who long had wanted to add teams to help with scheduling. The Big East has survived as an eight-team league since 2005, but as the Big Ten and Pac-10 have expanded and more possible conference re-alignment in the future looms, the conference knew it had to get bigger or face extinction."
Read more via the ESPN.com Link
So you ask yourself, self what could this mean? Is Georgia State headed to the Big East? Not so fast, my friend (as the Sunshine Scooter Lee Corso would say).
First in line is likely the aforementioned Villanova. They have the plan in place and are the only non-football members of the Big East that is prepared to dive in head first. The next spot would be for the most attractive. There are rumors about TCU making a bid (leaving the WAC), Houston or Central Florida (leaving Conference USA) or even Temple (leaving the MAC). I believe it will likely be Temple as they are a hot team right now and have locked up another winning season after taking over a greasefire.
So then what? CAA football loses a member (likely 2 with URI moving on) and so does the MAC (which is not an attractive landing spot). What happens in 2014 when the current BCS agreement expires? I believe the Plus One game (1 vs. 4, 2 vs. 3 and the winner in the BCS Title game the following week) is all but a formality. Again, what does that has to do with us?
The Big East will absolutely want to expand either to 12 or 16 teams by the time the BCS agreement is up. Whether that want develops into a plan, is another question but this is only the first step. If they look into emerging programs from Conference USA or the Sun Belt to fill those spots, guess what just opened up? Yep. Spots on the board. You do the math but I believe once again, patience is our best friend.
Tuesday Quick Hitters - 11.2.10
Good Morning and Happy Tuesday Panther Nation! The football team is not practicing today and giving the players a chance to rest their bodies as we came out of the South Alabama pretty beat up.
I wanted to hit a few topics of discussion that we've seen on the boards and in conversations:
1) Moving to FBS - Talk is premature right now. Let's put a moratorium on it for a bit. It's great to have dreams but enjoy the next 2 games as the 1st year is winding down.
2) This Saturday is our last home game. Help us honor the 5 seniors on this team and let's send them out with a huge crowd. Try to bring at least one person who hasn't been to a game yet this year. I'm going to bring two of my friends (one is a GSU grad who hasn't been to a game yet) and will be hanging out at the PantherTalk.com tailgate in the Orange lot. Come by and say hello.
3) Being critical of coaches. I've been a fan of a major BCS conference program with 50 years of playing history behind it. Before you go on a board or in public and critique what any of our coaching staff is doing take a breath, count to 10 and realize that you have no body of work to judge. Coach Curry and his staff evaluate every play, every practice and every player. I'm confident that they put our players in the best position to succeed. Support them and support our teams.
On to the links...
Ken S from the AJC previews Lamar: AJC Link
South Alabama's Joey Jones recaps our game:
On Saturday’s win over Georgia State: Boxscore News Link
“I’m real excited about the win Saturday. I thought we played well. I didn’t think we came to play the second half like we normally do. We talked to our players about it at halftime. It’s happened so many times where we’re up at halftime, and we tell them to play their best in the second half and play like it was the very first play of the game. I don’t know that we did that, and that’s my responsibility to make sure they do so. But there have been so many times where a team would just fold, and they [Georgia State] didn’t fold. I think we learned a big lesson there. I never felt like we were going to lose the game, but we had to make first downs on that last drive.
"They were so hot on offense that last quarter, that I didn’t want to give them the ball back and give them the chance to win it. But we called timeout and brought the offense over, and the offensive line and Kendall Houston took over. He broke tackles and just did a great job. That’s a good feeling to close a game out like that and not give the other team a chance. That says a lot about the guts of our players.”
My take: Give credit where credit is due but I had the prevailing feeling at halftime that our offense would roar back and told my wife as much. Our offense is really only being stopped by its own mistakes (fumbles & INTs). As Coach Bond said yesterday, he's very comfortable with our passing game right now that he almost has to catch himself from calling pass heavy game plans.
Updated Sagarin Ratings: South Alabama drops to #111 with the wins vs. us. We sit at #185 and our opponent this week, Lamar, is currently ranked #204. AL.com Link
Checking In With Our Opponents with Bob R from the Examiner: Our opponents have a cumulative win-loss record of 47-42 (.528 Winning %) after a 5-3 week. Examiner Link
I look forward to seeing you Saturday at the Dome. Beat Lamar!
I wanted to hit a few topics of discussion that we've seen on the boards and in conversations:
1) Moving to FBS - Talk is premature right now. Let's put a moratorium on it for a bit. It's great to have dreams but enjoy the next 2 games as the 1st year is winding down.
2) This Saturday is our last home game. Help us honor the 5 seniors on this team and let's send them out with a huge crowd. Try to bring at least one person who hasn't been to a game yet this year. I'm going to bring two of my friends (one is a GSU grad who hasn't been to a game yet) and will be hanging out at the PantherTalk.com tailgate in the Orange lot. Come by and say hello.
3) Being critical of coaches. I've been a fan of a major BCS conference program with 50 years of playing history behind it. Before you go on a board or in public and critique what any of our coaching staff is doing take a breath, count to 10 and realize that you have no body of work to judge. Coach Curry and his staff evaluate every play, every practice and every player. I'm confident that they put our players in the best position to succeed. Support them and support our teams.
On to the links...
Ken S from the AJC previews Lamar: AJC Link
South Alabama's Joey Jones recaps our game:
On Saturday’s win over Georgia State: Boxscore News Link
“I’m real excited about the win Saturday. I thought we played well. I didn’t think we came to play the second half like we normally do. We talked to our players about it at halftime. It’s happened so many times where we’re up at halftime, and we tell them to play their best in the second half and play like it was the very first play of the game. I don’t know that we did that, and that’s my responsibility to make sure they do so. But there have been so many times where a team would just fold, and they [Georgia State] didn’t fold. I think we learned a big lesson there. I never felt like we were going to lose the game, but we had to make first downs on that last drive.
"They were so hot on offense that last quarter, that I didn’t want to give them the ball back and give them the chance to win it. But we called timeout and brought the offense over, and the offensive line and Kendall Houston took over. He broke tackles and just did a great job. That’s a good feeling to close a game out like that and not give the other team a chance. That says a lot about the guts of our players.”
My take: Give credit where credit is due but I had the prevailing feeling at halftime that our offense would roar back and told my wife as much. Our offense is really only being stopped by its own mistakes (fumbles & INTs). As Coach Bond said yesterday, he's very comfortable with our passing game right now that he almost has to catch himself from calling pass heavy game plans.
Updated Sagarin Ratings: South Alabama drops to #111 with the wins vs. us. We sit at #185 and our opponent this week, Lamar, is currently ranked #204. AL.com Link
Checking In With Our Opponents with Bob R from the Examiner: Our opponents have a cumulative win-loss record of 47-42 (.528 Winning %) after a 5-3 week. Examiner Link
I look forward to seeing you Saturday at the Dome. Beat Lamar!
AJC: Coach Rod Barnes Q&A
Oh yeah, Basketball Season is Here: More good work by our guy Ken at the AJC: AJC Link
Who are two teams that will compete for the national championship?
Barnes: I think Duke is one team and I think Michigan State.
Complete this sentence. College basketball would be a better game if…
Barnes: I think maybe if the season were shorter (in terms of games). I think our season is so long now that I think even some of the best teams run out of gas.
Who's the most improved player on your team?
Barnes: Jihad Ali. Last year he had some games where he scored over 20 a game and I think this year he will have the opportunity to be our leading scorer. I think he would be the guy who would be the surprise, the guy that'll be talked about.
What's a fair criticism of you?
Barnes: A fair criticism is I'm a coach who probably puts more time in and works more time on his defense and sometimes his offense struggles.
What's the best book you've read recently?
Barnes: I would say probably a book I read called "The Rules of Engagement -- The Eight Principles of Leadership."
Who are two teams that will compete for the national championship?
Barnes: I think Duke is one team and I think Michigan State.
Complete this sentence. College basketball would be a better game if…
Barnes: I think maybe if the season were shorter (in terms of games). I think our season is so long now that I think even some of the best teams run out of gas.
Who's the most improved player on your team?
Barnes: Jihad Ali. Last year he had some games where he scored over 20 a game and I think this year he will have the opportunity to be our leading scorer. I think he would be the guy who would be the surprise, the guy that'll be talked about.
What's a fair criticism of you?
Barnes: A fair criticism is I'm a coach who probably puts more time in and works more time on his defense and sometimes his offense struggles.
What's the best book you've read recently?
Barnes: I would say probably a book I read called "The Rules of Engagement -- The Eight Principles of Leadership."
Monday, November 1, 2010
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