http://ncaabbs.com/ Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:18:48 -0600 MyBB http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401639 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:20:07 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401639 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401526 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:51:41 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401526
Have a CC number and which bowls people would be willing to travel to. It'd make the school that much more attractive if we had 3,4, or 5k people that have already paid before bowl selections are announced.]]>
Have a CC number and which bowls people would be willing to travel to. It'd make the school that much more attractive if we had 3,4, or 5k people that have already paid before bowl selections are announced.]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401509 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:58:07 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401509
I personally don't like it. It was better before when the links and stories were right on the main page.

Thoughts?]]>
I personally don't like it. It was better before when the links and stories were right on the main page.

Thoughts?]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401507 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:44:57 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401507 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401475 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:11:22 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401475

http://games.espn.go.com/bowlmania/en/gr...oupID=1296

Group: BearcatBanter
Password: BK]]>

http://games.espn.go.com/bowlmania/en/gr...oupID=1296

Group: BearcatBanter
Password: BK]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401451 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:10:10 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401451 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401409 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:18:47 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401409
So now you have one! Enjoy!]]>
So now you have one! Enjoy!]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401405 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:13:54 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401405 In the context of higher education, how do you view college athletics?

"I think college athletics have an important role to play in an institution. Obviously it's an opportunity for the school (and) the alumni to really come together and show pride. A common purpose and a common goal can be a great unifying factor and bring prestige and recognition to the institution in a way that is very hard to emulate in other things that you might be doing."

Impressions of athletics here at UC?

"From what I've seen so far it certainly is a unifying factor, not only on the campus but in the entire city, and throughout Southwest Ohio folks are very supportive of UC athletics. That's obviously quite gratifying."

You have many priorities. Where do sports fit in? When do you start to think about your goals for athletics here?

"I think sports play a big role. Obviously it's hard to figure out where they are on the priority list. No. 1 the university is an academic institution. The No. 1 priority is to be the best we can be academically - that means in the classroom, in the programs that we offer students, in the research that we do and that the faculty is engaged in. We want to be a complete university, and part of that is the opportunity for students to participate in athletics, as well as for students to be involved and engaged in following the teams and being supportive of the teams."

Do you have goals in mind for UC's athletic program?

"I want us to be the best we can be."

Are you familiar with the drive for the indoor facility and potential stadium expansion?

"I have some familiarity with that." (He laughs)

How do you view that need and where that fits into things?

"There are certainly needs that we're going to try to address. A number of those are being addressed right now. I would anticipate we'll be able to move fairly quickly on addressing the most urgent needs. I want to emphasize that Athletics is pursuing private dollars for these needs so that the financial burden does not fall back on the University's general fund."

There's always the debate about college athletes - that coaches get huge salaries and there is a disproportionate amount of attention paid to athletics. How do you view where athletics is, the priority it gets and the money spent?

"The priorities, of course, are clear. As I said earlier, we are an academic institution. That's what we are and that's what we always will be. In fact, we don't call them 'athletes,' we call them 'student-athletes.' Ultimately they're going to graduate and go onto a number of different professions, and we want to be supportive of that."

Will you be visible? What kinds of sporting events will people see you at?

"I try to attend as many sporting events as I can. You might see me wearing my Bearcats jacket."

What kind of relationship will you have with Athletic Director Mike Thomas?

"We're very fortunate to have a great athletic director. As the president, I have responsibility for everything. While I am not a micromanager, I expect to be informed as to what's going on, and Mike has done a tremendous job in keeping me informed and abreast of what's happening."

Will you have face-time with UC student-athletes? Will you meet them? Will you be available to them?

"The basketball coach wants me to speak to the team, and I look forward to that. I've already had the chance to meet some of the football players. I enjoy meeting athletes. Every place I've ever been I've had the chance to interact with athletes. That's always a fun experience to hear about the challenges they're facing and talk about their goals and aspirations."

What advice or thoughts do you share with them?

"Student-athletes really face great challenges. When I was on the Board in Control of Athletics at the University of Iowa, we did a study on what time it took to be a student-athlete. For instance - this was a long time ago; I don't remember this exactly - but in a week that the football team would have an away game, we found that students were spending over 48 hours that week on things related to athletics and football. Obviously they aren't practicing all that time. It was like having a full-time job. You really have to have your priorities in order. I think athletes that are successful learn to establish those priorities and learn how to negotiate that. It is very difficult and it requires a single-mindedness if you're going to be successful both in the classroom and in the field."

How was attending the Big East meetings on your first day on the job (Nov. 1)?


"It was great. The reception was very warm from my fellow presidents. I knew a couple of them and had had good relationships with them before I started. They were very excited to a person about the great things that are happening with UC football right now. The Big East members take great pride in that. I didn't have anything to do with that, but it's on my watch." (He smiles)

How familiar are you with the Big East overall?

"I am familiar with the conference, I am familiar with some of the challenges that they face. I came away from that meeting feeling that the Big East is a very strong conference and folks are very committed to it. The presidents are excited about the conference and what the potential is in the future. There was a real energy and enthusiasm in the room for the Big East among the presidents."

Sports heroes growing up?
"Sure. Growing up in (Muncie) Indiana, it was basketball, and one of my heroes was Oscar Robertson, who was a few years older than me."

I posted the questions and answers I figured most would be interested in. This is part 1 with more to follow. Here is the link to the article -

http://www.gobearcats.com/blog/2009/11/n...big-o.html]]> In the context of higher education, how do you view college athletics?

"I think college athletics have an important role to play in an institution. Obviously it's an opportunity for the school (and) the alumni to really come together and show pride. A common purpose and a common goal can be a great unifying factor and bring prestige and recognition to the institution in a way that is very hard to emulate in other things that you might be doing."

Impressions of athletics here at UC?

"From what I've seen so far it certainly is a unifying factor, not only on the campus but in the entire city, and throughout Southwest Ohio folks are very supportive of UC athletics. That's obviously quite gratifying."

You have many priorities. Where do sports fit in? When do you start to think about your goals for athletics here?

"I think sports play a big role. Obviously it's hard to figure out where they are on the priority list. No. 1 the university is an academic institution. The No. 1 priority is to be the best we can be academically - that means in the classroom, in the programs that we offer students, in the research that we do and that the faculty is engaged in. We want to be a complete university, and part of that is the opportunity for students to participate in athletics, as well as for students to be involved and engaged in following the teams and being supportive of the teams."

Do you have goals in mind for UC's athletic program?

"I want us to be the best we can be."

Are you familiar with the drive for the indoor facility and potential stadium expansion?

"I have some familiarity with that." (He laughs)

How do you view that need and where that fits into things?

"There are certainly needs that we're going to try to address. A number of those are being addressed right now. I would anticipate we'll be able to move fairly quickly on addressing the most urgent needs. I want to emphasize that Athletics is pursuing private dollars for these needs so that the financial burden does not fall back on the University's general fund."

There's always the debate about college athletes - that coaches get huge salaries and there is a disproportionate amount of attention paid to athletics. How do you view where athletics is, the priority it gets and the money spent?

"The priorities, of course, are clear. As I said earlier, we are an academic institution. That's what we are and that's what we always will be. In fact, we don't call them 'athletes,' we call them 'student-athletes.' Ultimately they're going to graduate and go onto a number of different professions, and we want to be supportive of that."

Will you be visible? What kinds of sporting events will people see you at?

"I try to attend as many sporting events as I can. You might see me wearing my Bearcats jacket."

What kind of relationship will you have with Athletic Director Mike Thomas?

"We're very fortunate to have a great athletic director. As the president, I have responsibility for everything. While I am not a micromanager, I expect to be informed as to what's going on, and Mike has done a tremendous job in keeping me informed and abreast of what's happening."

Will you have face-time with UC student-athletes? Will you meet them? Will you be available to them?

"The basketball coach wants me to speak to the team, and I look forward to that. I've already had the chance to meet some of the football players. I enjoy meeting athletes. Every place I've ever been I've had the chance to interact with athletes. That's always a fun experience to hear about the challenges they're facing and talk about their goals and aspirations."

What advice or thoughts do you share with them?

"Student-athletes really face great challenges. When I was on the Board in Control of Athletics at the University of Iowa, we did a study on what time it took to be a student-athlete. For instance - this was a long time ago; I don't remember this exactly - but in a week that the football team would have an away game, we found that students were spending over 48 hours that week on things related to athletics and football. Obviously they aren't practicing all that time. It was like having a full-time job. You really have to have your priorities in order. I think athletes that are successful learn to establish those priorities and learn how to negotiate that. It is very difficult and it requires a single-mindedness if you're going to be successful both in the classroom and in the field."

How was attending the Big East meetings on your first day on the job (Nov. 1)?


"It was great. The reception was very warm from my fellow presidents. I knew a couple of them and had had good relationships with them before I started. They were very excited to a person about the great things that are happening with UC football right now. The Big East members take great pride in that. I didn't have anything to do with that, but it's on my watch." (He smiles)

How familiar are you with the Big East overall?

"I am familiar with the conference, I am familiar with some of the challenges that they face. I came away from that meeting feeling that the Big East is a very strong conference and folks are very committed to it. The presidents are excited about the conference and what the potential is in the future. There was a real energy and enthusiasm in the room for the Big East among the presidents."

Sports heroes growing up?
"Sure. Growing up in (Muncie) Indiana, it was basketball, and one of my heroes was Oscar Robertson, who was a few years older than me."

I posted the questions and answers I figured most would be interested in. This is part 1 with more to follow. Here is the link to the article -

http://www.gobearcats.com/blog/2009/11/n...big-o.html]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401314 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:03:48 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401314 UC volleyball squad begins road to NCAA

By Shannon Russell • srussell@enquirer.com • November 20, 2009

Coming off a 2008 season in which Cincinnati's volleyball team won a share of the Big East regular-season title, coach Reed Sunahara was optimistic the Bearcats' success would continue.

He was also interested in seeing the maturation of a youthful roster that included five freshmen.

Thirty-one matches later, those freshmen - and their upperclass mentors - have delivered another strong regular season.

The Bearcats (22-9) have extended their home-court winning streak to 27, finished the Big East regular season 12-2, tied a school record for most Big East victories, and clinched the No. 2 seed in the conference tournament that starts today in Louisville.

UC plays No. 7 Connecticut at 12:30 p.m. at the Kentucky International Convention Center. The eight top-seeded teams compete through Sunday for the championship and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

"Because of what we've had and the talent we had coming in, I thought we could put a good team on the floor. But it's tough when you have freshmen. You don't know how they're going to develop," Sunahara said. "My hat's off to them."

Freshmen Emily Hayden, Karen Onuki, Becca Refenes, Megan Turner and Jordanne Scott have played roles in the team's success.

Junior outside hitter Stephanie Niemer, who leads UC with 466 kills, said they have meshed well with the older players.

"By the time the regular season came to an end, they were all playing well and understanding what was needed to make the team better," Niemer said.

If chemistry is any indication, Niemer is confident the Bearcats have what it takes to be a contender in the conference tournament.

"We are a younger team but I feel like we flow together on the court," Niemer said.

After the Big East tourney UC has one more regular-season home match, against Miami Nov. 28.

A UC win would extend its home court winning streak - which started in 2007 - to 28. The streak is the nation's second-longest behind Penn State's 70.

Sunahara said the Bearcats focus on each match instead of worrying about big-picture records. He'd like players to continue the trend at the league tournament.

"I think we need to remain focused and I think we need to execute at a high level. It's a new season now. What we did in the regular season doesn't matter," he said. "We need to focus on what we're doing on our side of the court."

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20091...ad+to+NCAA]]> UC volleyball squad begins road to NCAA

By Shannon Russell • srussell@enquirer.com • November 20, 2009

Coming off a 2008 season in which Cincinnati's volleyball team won a share of the Big East regular-season title, coach Reed Sunahara was optimistic the Bearcats' success would continue.

He was also interested in seeing the maturation of a youthful roster that included five freshmen.

Thirty-one matches later, those freshmen - and their upperclass mentors - have delivered another strong regular season.

The Bearcats (22-9) have extended their home-court winning streak to 27, finished the Big East regular season 12-2, tied a school record for most Big East victories, and clinched the No. 2 seed in the conference tournament that starts today in Louisville.

UC plays No. 7 Connecticut at 12:30 p.m. at the Kentucky International Convention Center. The eight top-seeded teams compete through Sunday for the championship and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

"Because of what we've had and the talent we had coming in, I thought we could put a good team on the floor. But it's tough when you have freshmen. You don't know how they're going to develop," Sunahara said. "My hat's off to them."

Freshmen Emily Hayden, Karen Onuki, Becca Refenes, Megan Turner and Jordanne Scott have played roles in the team's success.

Junior outside hitter Stephanie Niemer, who leads UC with 466 kills, said they have meshed well with the older players.

"By the time the regular season came to an end, they were all playing well and understanding what was needed to make the team better," Niemer said.

If chemistry is any indication, Niemer is confident the Bearcats have what it takes to be a contender in the conference tournament.

"We are a younger team but I feel like we flow together on the court," Niemer said.

After the Big East tourney UC has one more regular-season home match, against Miami Nov. 28.

A UC win would extend its home court winning streak - which started in 2007 - to 28. The streak is the nation's second-longest behind Penn State's 70.

Sunahara said the Bearcats focus on each match instead of worrying about big-picture records. He'd like players to continue the trend at the league tournament.

"I think we need to remain focused and I think we need to execute at a high level. It's a new season now. What we did in the regular season doesn't matter," he said. "We need to focus on what we're doing on our side of the court."

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20091...ad+to+NCAA]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401311 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:37:46 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401311 Waugh scripts different path at Cincinnati
Bearcat senior moves when need arises

By Bill Koch • bkoch@enquirer.com • November 19, 2009


Enquirer file photo
Marcus Waugh (far left) was fired up after his fourth-quarter interception during the Bearcats' win over Miami back in October.

CINCINNATI - University of Cincinnati senior linebacker Marcus Waugh comes from solid football stock.

His father, Thomas, played center at Ohio State from 1975 to 1979 and was captain of the 1979 Buckeye team that played in the Rose Bowl.

Waugh was quite a star in his own right at Toledo St. John's High School. He was first-team all-state, rushed for 2,735 yards, scored 38 touchdowns, was an outstanding linebacker, and averaged 42.7 yards as a punter.

But when he arrived at UC in 2005, he began a transformation from a star to a member of the supporting cast, a role that he has embraced as enthusiastically as if he were one of UC's marquee players.

During his five years at UC, he has played four different positions and has changed positions six times before settling in this season as a backup linebacker.

"I've played linebacker, fullback, defensive line and O-line," Waugh said. "So far my favorite has been linebacker. It's given me a chance to really run downhill and have fun hitting people."

When he was approached by coach Brian Kelly about trying linebacker this year, Waugh was all for it.

"I haven't played linebacker since high school," Waugh said. "I said to myself, 'I played on the defensive line. Why not move back and get my hand out of the dirt and have some fun?' "

The 6-foot, 270-pound Waugh, who still gets to play offense as a blocker in certain goal-line situations, never envisioned that his college career would unfold this way.

He saw himself as a blocking fullback who would occasionally function as a receiver.

It hasn't worked out that way.

When he was first asked to change position, Waugh wondered if maybe he wasn't as good as he thought he was.

"When the changes started I was kind of down on myself at first but at the same time I thought I've got to do what's right for the team," Waugh said. "At least the coach trusts me to be able to move positions and be productive. They always reassured me that it's not that you're not good enough, it's that you don't fit this certain position."

Waugh has 10 tackles this year - five solo, five assisted - and has intercepted one pass.

"It's really what our success is built on," Kelly said, "seniors who have given themselves up to play a role. He hasn't liked his role but he's accepted it. It says a lot about guys who have dedicated themselves to wins and not individual stats. That's Marcus Waugh."

Waugh and his dad hoped that he would follow in his father's footsteps at Ohio State. Instead, he finds himself playing on a team ranked higher than the Buckeyes.

"He kind of takes it with a grain of salt," Waugh said. "When we played Ohio State a few years ago, he was in the Ohio State section with Cincinnati gear on. He says I'll be a Cincinnati fan until you're done and then I'll go back to Ohio State.

"Our dream was to go to Ohio State but it wasn't in the cards. Just to stay in Ohio, it was really good. He's always been proud. He hasn't missed a game since my seventh grade year. Just to (have me) play football ... at the Division I level, he was really proud."

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20091...erent+path]]> Waugh scripts different path at Cincinnati
Bearcat senior moves when need arises

By Bill Koch • bkoch@enquirer.com • November 19, 2009


Enquirer file photo
Marcus Waugh (far left) was fired up after his fourth-quarter interception during the Bearcats' win over Miami back in October.

CINCINNATI - University of Cincinnati senior linebacker Marcus Waugh comes from solid football stock.

His father, Thomas, played center at Ohio State from 1975 to 1979 and was captain of the 1979 Buckeye team that played in the Rose Bowl.

Waugh was quite a star in his own right at Toledo St. John's High School. He was first-team all-state, rushed for 2,735 yards, scored 38 touchdowns, was an outstanding linebacker, and averaged 42.7 yards as a punter.

But when he arrived at UC in 2005, he began a transformation from a star to a member of the supporting cast, a role that he has embraced as enthusiastically as if he were one of UC's marquee players.

During his five years at UC, he has played four different positions and has changed positions six times before settling in this season as a backup linebacker.

"I've played linebacker, fullback, defensive line and O-line," Waugh said. "So far my favorite has been linebacker. It's given me a chance to really run downhill and have fun hitting people."

When he was approached by coach Brian Kelly about trying linebacker this year, Waugh was all for it.

"I haven't played linebacker since high school," Waugh said. "I said to myself, 'I played on the defensive line. Why not move back and get my hand out of the dirt and have some fun?' "

The 6-foot, 270-pound Waugh, who still gets to play offense as a blocker in certain goal-line situations, never envisioned that his college career would unfold this way.

He saw himself as a blocking fullback who would occasionally function as a receiver.

It hasn't worked out that way.

When he was first asked to change position, Waugh wondered if maybe he wasn't as good as he thought he was.

"When the changes started I was kind of down on myself at first but at the same time I thought I've got to do what's right for the team," Waugh said. "At least the coach trusts me to be able to move positions and be productive. They always reassured me that it's not that you're not good enough, it's that you don't fit this certain position."

Waugh has 10 tackles this year - five solo, five assisted - and has intercepted one pass.

"It's really what our success is built on," Kelly said, "seniors who have given themselves up to play a role. He hasn't liked his role but he's accepted it. It says a lot about guys who have dedicated themselves to wins and not individual stats. That's Marcus Waugh."

Waugh and his dad hoped that he would follow in his father's footsteps at Ohio State. Instead, he finds himself playing on a team ranked higher than the Buckeyes.

"He kind of takes it with a grain of salt," Waugh said. "When we played Ohio State a few years ago, he was in the Ohio State section with Cincinnati gear on. He says I'll be a Cincinnati fan until you're done and then I'll go back to Ohio State.

"Our dream was to go to Ohio State but it wasn't in the cards. Just to stay in Ohio, it was really good. He's always been proud. He hasn't missed a game since my seventh grade year. Just to (have me) play football ... at the Division I level, he was really proud."

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20091...erent+path]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401270 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:45:13 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401270 in the last few days. That the "bright lights" of ABC were a contributing factor. Obviously no names were mentioned. Lewis may be the first,,,,others to follow?????

BK made reference again to "building" a program here, his strong approval of Greg Williams and Mike Thomas.

That his discussions with the team centered around "are you done yet (at 10 wins), and finishing strong

ND rumors were discussed, but the attractiveness of the UC job again highlighted.

Team has Fri/Sat off this week/next. Really impressed with Illinois, esp on film.]]> in the last few days. That the "bright lights" of ABC were a contributing factor. Obviously no names were mentioned. Lewis may be the first,,,,others to follow?????

BK made reference again to "building" a program here, his strong approval of Greg Williams and Mike Thomas.

That his discussions with the team centered around "are you done yet (at 10 wins), and finishing strong

ND rumors were discussed, but the attractiveness of the UC job again highlighted.

Team has Fri/Sat off this week/next. Really impressed with Illinois, esp on film.]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401247 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:09:17 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401247
Don't know what any of this is all about? Check out the current standings thread below for an explanation



Current Standings:
http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=315460

Catalog Of Tagged Venues:
http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=400246]]>
Don't know what any of this is all about? Check out the current standings thread below for an explanation



Current Standings:
http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=315460

Catalog Of Tagged Venues:
http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=400246]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401201 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:56:24 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401201 ]]> ]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401193 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:11:05 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401193

Brian Kelly Belongs in Cincinnati, Not South Bend
by Rob Lunn on Nov 18, 2009 2:44:17 PM

Brian Kelly I will write this entry from the passion-filled depths of my soul, not comparing winning percentages or any other mindless stats. No, this one is from the heart, trying to put into words what a coach might have going for him that doesn't make sense to the outside world.

Right now, the world of coaching's soup du jour is Brian Kelly of Cincinnati, who, if he were to answer to the screaming calls of the college football masses, would be replacing Charlie Weis as the head coach of Notre Dame come Saturday.

All logic points to this move being a no-brainer, as Cincinnati lacks the prestige and tradition of Notre Dame. It would be more money, better players, a bigger market and by all traditional measurements, a better job. But there is a lot that fans aren't considering.

Brian Kelly has built a program at Cincinnati, and he has taken average to above-average recruits and become a Big East contender every season.



As a player, every time a coaching position opened, my coach Randy Edsall's name was at the top of the list. Syracuse, Michigan and Georgia Tech were the rumored positions for Coach Edsall that were distracting to our team. But he squashed the rumors early, and more importantly, he stayed.

Coach Edsall continues to have the full support of the athletic department, fans and boosters, and he has built a program as a point of pride and not as a stepping stone to another team.

I think the same holds true for Kelly, or at least it should. When I first started playing games at Cincinnati's stadium, there was a patchwork of fans. By my last season, the stands were filled and alive with excitement.

Kelly has laid the foundation for strong tradition and pride in a program that competes for attention and recruits with other in-state rivals like Ohio State, Ohio University and Miami of Ohio. What Kelly has accomplished is no small feat, and he should appreciate the comfort he has created as a Bearcat with the full support of everyone around him and the chance to be a perennial powerhouse. Or he could enter the high-risk position at Notre Dame, which has a virtual rotating door on the head coach's office.

I'm not saying he should aspire for Joe Paterno-like longevity, but in weighing the options, loyalty to a program and fan base (especially one you've created) is more important than a high-profile position.

http://www.nesn.com/2009/11/brian-kelly-...b9e650970c]]>

Brian Kelly Belongs in Cincinnati, Not South Bend
by Rob Lunn on Nov 18, 2009 2:44:17 PM

Brian Kelly I will write this entry from the passion-filled depths of my soul, not comparing winning percentages or any other mindless stats. No, this one is from the heart, trying to put into words what a coach might have going for him that doesn't make sense to the outside world.

Right now, the world of coaching's soup du jour is Brian Kelly of Cincinnati, who, if he were to answer to the screaming calls of the college football masses, would be replacing Charlie Weis as the head coach of Notre Dame come Saturday.

All logic points to this move being a no-brainer, as Cincinnati lacks the prestige and tradition of Notre Dame. It would be more money, better players, a bigger market and by all traditional measurements, a better job. But there is a lot that fans aren't considering.

Brian Kelly has built a program at Cincinnati, and he has taken average to above-average recruits and become a Big East contender every season.



As a player, every time a coaching position opened, my coach Randy Edsall's name was at the top of the list. Syracuse, Michigan and Georgia Tech were the rumored positions for Coach Edsall that were distracting to our team. But he squashed the rumors early, and more importantly, he stayed.

Coach Edsall continues to have the full support of the athletic department, fans and boosters, and he has built a program as a point of pride and not as a stepping stone to another team.

I think the same holds true for Kelly, or at least it should. When I first started playing games at Cincinnati's stadium, there was a patchwork of fans. By my last season, the stands were filled and alive with excitement.

Kelly has laid the foundation for strong tradition and pride in a program that competes for attention and recruits with other in-state rivals like Ohio State, Ohio University and Miami of Ohio. What Kelly has accomplished is no small feat, and he should appreciate the comfort he has created as a Bearcat with the full support of everyone around him and the chance to be a perennial powerhouse. Or he could enter the high-risk position at Notre Dame, which has a virtual rotating door on the head coach's office.

I'm not saying he should aspire for Joe Paterno-like longevity, but in weighing the options, loyalty to a program and fan base (especially one you've created) is more important than a high-profile position.

http://www.nesn.com/2009/11/brian-kelly-...b9e650970c]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401191 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:05:53 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401191 Gilyard named Player to Watch for Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year Award
Posted by BKoch at 11/19/2009 10:41 AM EST on Cincinnati.com

UC wide receiver/kick returner Mardy Gilyard has been named one of 15 Players to Watch for the 2009 Walter Camp Football Foundation Player of the Year award, the fourth oldest college football award in the nation.

The 15-player list includes four quarterbacks, four running backs, four wide receivers and three defensive standouts.

The five finalists will be announced on Dec. 2. The winner will be announced on Dec. 10.

The other players to watch: Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford; Jerry Hughes, DL, TCU; Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama; Case Keenum, QB, Houston; Dion Lewis, RB, Pittt; Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama; Colt McCoy, QB, Texas; Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State; Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, Oregon State; Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas; C.J. Spiller, WR/KR, Clemson; Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska; Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame; Tim Tebow, QB, Florida.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll...d=blogDest]]> Gilyard named Player to Watch for Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year Award
Posted by BKoch at 11/19/2009 10:41 AM EST on Cincinnati.com

UC wide receiver/kick returner Mardy Gilyard has been named one of 15 Players to Watch for the 2009 Walter Camp Football Foundation Player of the Year award, the fourth oldest college football award in the nation.

The 15-player list includes four quarterbacks, four running backs, four wide receivers and three defensive standouts.

The five finalists will be announced on Dec. 2. The winner will be announced on Dec. 10.

The other players to watch: Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford; Jerry Hughes, DL, TCU; Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama; Case Keenum, QB, Houston; Dion Lewis, RB, Pittt; Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama; Colt McCoy, QB, Texas; Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State; Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, Oregon State; Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas; C.J. Spiller, WR/KR, Clemson; Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska; Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame; Tim Tebow, QB, Florida.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll...d=blogDest]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401121 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:29:40 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401121 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401119 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:25:17 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401119
Me: Why all the stories and updates about a Fake ID? Are there not more pressing issues of the day?
When an XU player was arrested 18 months ago The Enquirer didn't give near the publicity, why the double standard?

Enquirer: Its not about a fake I'd. Its about a nationally prominent player admitting he ignored a judges order who may go to jail if he ignores it again. Had he done what the judge ordered, I never would have written about it.

Me: So if UC was not ranked, or if a current player on the team, lets say JK Schaeffer (linebacker) was in the same situation you would not write about it? Drew Lavendar was a starting point guard on local team that went to the Elite 8, his "arrest" was buried, nowhere near the front page of the Enquirer's website.

Enquirer: I'd be interested in reading the email you send to Collaros for not doing what the judge told him to, thus embarrassing him and UC. He did this, not me.
I am the one who broke the story on Drew Lavender. Without me -- a court reporter -- that never would have been made public. Reporters have ZERO say in where stories physically appear either on our web page or in the paper.

Me: "I'd be interested in reading the email you send to Collaros for not doing what the judge told him to, thus embarrassing him and UC"

Why would that interest you?

Enquirer: Because you seem far me interested in blaming me -- for writing facts -- than in blaming the person charged with a crime. Don't kill the messenger.

Me: You did not answer my question below.

So if UC was not ranked, or if a current player on the team, lets say JK Schaeffer (linebacker) was in the same situation you would not write about it?

Enquirer: Rankings, to me, had little to do with this. I wasn't going to write the story yesterday UNTIL the judge told me he was bringing Collaros -- the person, not the player -- in to ask why he ignored a judge's order. All of this is Collaros' fault. He did all of this.

Me: Please show me where I blame vs. asking questions?

Enquirer: Ask Collaros. HE did this. I reported it. HE was cited. HE ignored the judges order and HE admitted as much today. [/color]]]>
Me: Why all the stories and updates about a Fake ID? Are there not more pressing issues of the day?
When an XU player was arrested 18 months ago The Enquirer didn't give near the publicity, why the double standard?

Enquirer: Its not about a fake I'd. Its about a nationally prominent player admitting he ignored a judges order who may go to jail if he ignores it again. Had he done what the judge ordered, I never would have written about it.

Me: So if UC was not ranked, or if a current player on the team, lets say JK Schaeffer (linebacker) was in the same situation you would not write about it? Drew Lavendar was a starting point guard on local team that went to the Elite 8, his "arrest" was buried, nowhere near the front page of the Enquirer's website.

Enquirer: I'd be interested in reading the email you send to Collaros for not doing what the judge told him to, thus embarrassing him and UC. He did this, not me.
I am the one who broke the story on Drew Lavender. Without me -- a court reporter -- that never would have been made public. Reporters have ZERO say in where stories physically appear either on our web page or in the paper.

Me: "I'd be interested in reading the email you send to Collaros for not doing what the judge told him to, thus embarrassing him and UC"

Why would that interest you?

Enquirer: Because you seem far me interested in blaming me -- for writing facts -- than in blaming the person charged with a crime. Don't kill the messenger.

Me: You did not answer my question below.

So if UC was not ranked, or if a current player on the team, lets say JK Schaeffer (linebacker) was in the same situation you would not write about it?

Enquirer: Rankings, to me, had little to do with this. I wasn't going to write the story yesterday UNTIL the judge told me he was bringing Collaros -- the person, not the player -- in to ask why he ignored a judge's order. All of this is Collaros' fault. He did all of this.

Me: Please show me where I blame vs. asking questions?

Enquirer: Ask Collaros. HE did this. I reported it. HE was cited. HE ignored the judges order and HE admitted as much today. [/color]]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401105 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:15:50 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401105 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401087 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:03:04 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401087 Cincinnati Bearcats No. 1 academically in BCS

By Michael Marot • The Associated Press • November 18, 2009

INDIANAPOLIS – College athletes are continuing to graduate at a record rate.

For the second consecutive year, the NCAA said Wednesday, the graduation rate was 79 percent for student-athletes entering college in 2002-03, meaning they earned their diplomas within six years. That ties last year's record for a single class.

Football Bowl Subdivision teams came in at 67 percent (NCAA) and 55 percent (federal).

Of the top 10 teams in the BCS standings, Cincinnati, now fifth in the standings, was the only school to top 70 percent in both reports. Texas, which is third in the standings, and Georgia Tech, which is seventh, had the lowest scores. Both came in at 49 percent (NCAA) and 41 percent (federal).

Half of the top 10 teams in the BCS standings – Florida, Texas, Boise State, Georgia Tech and LSU – failed to reach 50 percent on the federal report.

According to federal statistics, college athletes are still graduating at a higher rate than the overall student body. Those stats shows 64 percent of athletes graduate over the same period, 2 percentage points higher than other students.

Federal numbers are lower because they do not take into account the performance of transfer students. For example, if an athlete enrolls at one school, then transfers to another, neither school receives credit when that athlete graduates. The federal number is also based on the four-class average.

When broken down by sport, women's teams met or exceeded the overall average in both reports in every sport except bowling. Women's basketball teams had an 83 percent graduation rate under NCAA guidelines and 64 percent in the federal report.

The three biggest men's sports – football, basketball and baseball – all failed to top 70 percent in the NCAA report.

Men's basketball and Football Championship Subdivision teams had the lowest rates of any sports, coming in at 64 percent under NCAA calculations. Basketball players scored 48 percent on the federal report, while FCS athletes were at 54 percent.

Baseball produced the lowest number, 47 percent, under federal guidelines. That number is 69 percent in the NCAA report.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll...311180070/]]> Cincinnati Bearcats No. 1 academically in BCS

By Michael Marot • The Associated Press • November 18, 2009

INDIANAPOLIS – College athletes are continuing to graduate at a record rate.

For the second consecutive year, the NCAA said Wednesday, the graduation rate was 79 percent for student-athletes entering college in 2002-03, meaning they earned their diplomas within six years. That ties last year's record for a single class.

Football Bowl Subdivision teams came in at 67 percent (NCAA) and 55 percent (federal).

Of the top 10 teams in the BCS standings, Cincinnati, now fifth in the standings, was the only school to top 70 percent in both reports. Texas, which is third in the standings, and Georgia Tech, which is seventh, had the lowest scores. Both came in at 49 percent (NCAA) and 41 percent (federal).

Half of the top 10 teams in the BCS standings – Florida, Texas, Boise State, Georgia Tech and LSU – failed to reach 50 percent on the federal report.

According to federal statistics, college athletes are still graduating at a higher rate than the overall student body. Those stats shows 64 percent of athletes graduate over the same period, 2 percentage points higher than other students.

Federal numbers are lower because they do not take into account the performance of transfer students. For example, if an athlete enrolls at one school, then transfers to another, neither school receives credit when that athlete graduates. The federal number is also based on the four-class average.

When broken down by sport, women's teams met or exceeded the overall average in both reports in every sport except bowling. Women's basketball teams had an 83 percent graduation rate under NCAA guidelines and 64 percent in the federal report.

The three biggest men's sports – football, basketball and baseball – all failed to top 70 percent in the NCAA report.

Men's basketball and Football Championship Subdivision teams had the lowest rates of any sports, coming in at 64 percent under NCAA calculations. Basketball players scored 48 percent on the federal report, while FCS athletes were at 54 percent.

Baseball produced the lowest number, 47 percent, under federal guidelines. That number is 69 percent in the NCAA report.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll...311180070/]]> http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401076 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:29:45 -0600 http://ncaabbs.com/showthread.php?tid=401076 Greg Williams: University of Cincinnati should aim high

By Cliff Peale • cpeale@enquirer.com • November 18, 2009

Trying to raise expectations for all of the University of Cincinnati, Greg Williams suggests using the unbeaten football team as a model.

UC’s new president delivered his first formal speech at UC Wednesday at an all-university faculty meeting, pushing the idea that UC should keep the same priorities but dream bigger.

“The program dreamed big, set high goals and went from obscurity to a national ranking of No. 5 in about five years,” said the 66-year-old Williams. “They have truly changed the way people think about UC football. How did they do that? It can’t be just money, because we have one of the smallest athletic budgets in the Big East.”

Publicly using football as a measuring stick for academic improvements at UC may have seemed bold, considering Williams’ audience in the Tangeman University Center. Only minutes before, Faculty Senate chairwoman Marla Hall had once again criticized UC for borrowing $9.7 million to build new football practice fields without consulting professors first.

“Our successes may not be played out on prime time and on the big screen, but they are innumerable,” Hall said.

The athletic complex along Jefferson Avenue will start construction before the end of the year and Williams said the “robust” discussion had been a positive.

His speech Wednesday was short on specifics and long on inspiration.

“What are the big ideas,” he asked, “that will galvanize action in pursuit of UC as a world-class research university?”

He spelled out a couple of themes sure to be repeated during his early days at UC.

• Capitalizing on semester conversion. UC is using the conversion, scheduled to be done by 2012, to restructure thousands of courses. Williams called for the project’s completion “in a way that truly renews our curriculum for the 21st century.”

• Raising the profile. From international education to the reputation of the Academic Health Center to relationships in Washington, D.C., Williams seems determined to spread the word. He’s already met with White House Urban Affairs Director Adolfo Carrion and called Wednesday for even more outreach efforts.

• Raising the money. Completing the $1 billion capital campaign is one of Williams’ highest priorities. UC is slightly more than halfway to that goal.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll...311180039/]]> Greg Williams: University of Cincinnati should aim high

By Cliff Peale • cpeale@enquirer.com • November 18, 2009

Trying to raise expectations for all of the University of Cincinnati, Greg Williams suggests using the unbeaten football team as a model.

UC’s new president delivered his first formal speech at UC Wednesday at an all-university faculty meeting, pushing the idea that UC should keep the same priorities but dream bigger.

“The program dreamed big, set high goals and went from obscurity to a national ranking of No. 5 in about five years,” said the 66-year-old Williams. “They have truly changed the way people think about UC football. How did they do that? It can’t be just money, because we have one of the smallest athletic budgets in the Big East.”

Publicly using football as a measuring stick for academic improvements at UC may have seemed bold, considering Williams’ audience in the Tangeman University Center. Only minutes before, Faculty Senate chairwoman Marla Hall had once again criticized UC for borrowing $9.7 million to build new football practice fields without consulting professors first.

“Our successes may not be played out on prime time and on the big screen, but they are innumerable,” Hall said.

The athletic complex along Jefferson Avenue will start construction before the end of the year and Williams said the “robust” discussion had been a positive.

His speech Wednesday was short on specifics and long on inspiration.

“What are the big ideas,” he asked, “that will galvanize action in pursuit of UC as a world-class research university?”

He spelled out a couple of themes sure to be repeated during his early days at UC.

• Capitalizing on semester conversion. UC is using the conversion, scheduled to be done by 2012, to restructure thousands of courses. Williams called for the project’s completion “in a way that truly renews our curriculum for the 21st century.”

• Raising the profile. From international education to the reputation of the Academic Health Center to relationships in Washington, D.C., Williams seems determined to spread the word. He’s already met with White House Urban Affairs Director Adolfo Carrion and called Wednesday for even more outreach efforts.

• Raising the money. Completing the $1 billion capital campaign is one of Williams’ highest priorities. UC is slightly more than halfway to that goal.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll...311180039/]]>