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Monday, August 18, 2008
Friday, August 15, 2008
WIR: 500 isn't old if you're a tree
Week in Review (WIR) was happy to have another busy week of Bronco football, and with a scrimmage tomorrow night (6:00pm at Bronco Stadium, in case you hadn't heard), the good vibes will continue into the weekend.
Also, the good vibes will continue into Monday, when we reveal our big surprise. Is it an OBNUG video game? Are we joining forces with Murph's Turf? Is this site going public? Stay tuned and find out on Monday.
Here are the best stories from the past week:
- Ryan Clady disappoints Woody Paige.
- First BSU scrimmage in the books.
- Nick Lomax in the QB derby?
- Season previews for Utah State and Nevada.
- Brian Murphy stirs debate.
- Happy 500th post, us.
- Practice going better than the scrimmages.
- Patience for the QB race.
- NFL preseason week two preview.
- Dustin Lapray: grandiloquent.
- What to watch for at scrimmage #2.
- Boise State adds two to schedule.
QB battle: Moore vs. Hamdan: Day 12
The most important decision in the history of the world will be made in the next few weeks, and we'll be providing daily updates on all the hype and hyperbole surrounding the Boise State quarterback competition.
Vs. 
Tomorrow night we get our second chance to see the quarterback competition for ourselves, but until then, we'll just have to rely on our trusted local media for guidance. Scary thought, huh.
Moore: the People's choice
Hamdan: the Media's choice
Advantage: Hamdan. The media does see practice, after all.
In the lead...Tie. It will make for a more interesting scrimmage this way.
2009 Boise State schedule tentatively finalized
Boise State has released a tentative schedule for next season, and there is no opening week Division I-AA opponent to be found. Doesn't feel right, does it?
The final two pieces to the scheduling puzzle were a visit from UC Davis, alma mater of Coach Pete and a guaranteed 30-point victory, and a trip to Oklahoma to face the Tulsa Golden Hurricane. Here is the non-conference schedule for the Broncos in 2009:
Sept. 5 vs. Oregon, Sept. 12 at Toledo, Sept. 19 vs. UC Davis, Sept. 26 vs. Miami (Ohio) and Oct. 3 at Tulsa.For those of you counting on your fingers at home, yes that is five straight weeks of football during a time of season when teams usually take a week or two off. Despite playing in consecutive weeks, the schedule is easy enough for the Broncos to sail through undefeated, especially with the experienced team expected to return next fall. Is it too soon to be looking ahead to next season already? Yes. It is.
Broncos announce 2009 schedule [BroncoSports.com]
User's guide for watching BSU's second scrimmage
Tomorrow night's scrimmage will be the last opportunity for Bronco fans to see the team on the field before the Idaho State game in two weeks. And if we've learned anything from weekend and evening scrimmages, the we also know that it will be an opportunity for casual fans to hang out, be confused, talk about other things, and distract us.
We would like to change that. There are far too many important matters to be decided and nitpicked in tomorrow night's scrimmage, and we want our full attention to be on the field, not explaining how down and distance works.
Therefore, we've compiled the following user's guide for Boise State's second fall scrimmage tomorrow night (6:00pm at Bronco Stadium). Print it out if you need it, or bring it along to hand out to the people around you.
- Kellen Moore is the short, left-handed one.
- Yes, the giant skyboxes and luxury suites are new.
- Don't boo if someone forces a turnover. That's a good thing.
- Ian Johnson will not play every down. This does not mean he is hurt.
- Jeremy Childs was suspended for academic reasons, not burglary, larceny, underage drinking, dogfighting, grand theft auto, or being too cool for school.
- Please stop asking us where Marty Tadman is.
- Do not, under any circumstances, start the wave.
- There may not be a whole lot of scoring. If this is an issue, we believe Pineapple Express is playing at Edwards at 6:30.
- Sure, that pink Kyle Wilson jersey looks good on you.
[UPDATE] Camp notes: good-bye East Jr. High, hello interceptions
Update 2:45pm: LaDustin files his report from morning practice. "Dear diary, I saw a fox today..."
The Broncos celebrated their final practice at East Junior High this morning with interceptions and popsicles. The IPT's Dave Southorn has the details.
At the end of the early practice, the offense had to run gassers after the defense held the upper hand most of the morning. Raphiel Lambert intercepted Bush Hamdan, while Travis Stanaway picked off Nick Lomax. Hey, at least everyone got popsicles afterward. Really!
Stanaway was mentioned as one of the standout newcomers who might see playing time this fall, and Lambert was a sensational high school running back who seems to be making a rather smooth transition to the defensive backfield. Coach Pete's bullhorn appreciated their effort.
The Broncos will have one more practice this evening before hitting the field tomorrow night for the team's second scrimmage of the fall. The scrimmage will be tomorrow night at 6:00pm, rather than 7:00pm time that had been previously reported. At least, that's what Judy from the Boise State athletics office told us.
We'll update this post as more reports from practice are filed. We are such freeloaders.
Broncos land 11th recruit, find Arizona enticing
The Broncos have landed their eleventh early commitment of the summer, DE Kharyee Marshall from Washington High School (Arizona). Expect the Statesman to confirm this recruit in late September.
The 6'2", 215-pound Marshall recorded 106 tackles and 16 sacks last year from his defensive end position. Ryan Winterswyk and Mike T. Williams nod in approval.
Kharyee Marshall profile [Scout.com]
This one goes to eleven [Fight Fight BSU]
An open letter to Dustin Lapray
Dear Dustin Lapray,
As diehard Boise State fans and admirers of excessively wordy reporting, let us be the first to say thank you for your informative, expressive, and detailed reports from Boise State football practice. What's that? We're not the first to say thank you? The guys at Bronco Country have already erected a paper mache statue to you in the end zone at East Junior High? Our mistake.
In that case, congraulations on winning over the Bronco Nation fan base in such a short amount of time. By our account, David Augusto is still trying. You have managed to fill a niche that was desperately void up until you and your thesaurus (and your bandana!) came traipsing into town.
RE: the thesaurus, we find it fascinating the words that you have used to describe the Broncos' practices, but we are loathe to admit that we may not know the meanings of some of them. Are the following definitions correct?
- Bellow: the sound John Gott makes when he bends over
- Inglorious: a euphemism for the Idaho State game
- Emulate: we believe you meant to write "Are you late"
- Azure: an adjective used to describe the quarterback situation
- Collusion: a Kyle Brotzman tackle attempt
Any help on these definitions would be much appreciated.
Your writing style is certainly unique to the Treasure Valley sports journalism scene, which is probably why you have been met with so much success in these first few weeks. You write as if the fate of the world depended on your ability to fit as many complex sentences into a single paragraph as possible. Seriously, a 40-word sentence? You are all man, Mr. Lapray.
For sure, the Twin Falls Magic Valley Times News must be thrilled to have you on staff. Who wouldn't love a person who can put the following inside joke about graduation orchestral arrangements into a sentence about Doug Martin and DJ Harper?
Neither has the grace of Ian Johnson, but they both got pop, and circumstance to spell the All-American.
LaDustin, you slay us!
We now must wonder whatever will you do for an encore. Your practice prose has been remarkably outstanding, so we are anxious to see what you will do during the football season. Will we be treated to an extemporaneous essay on the virtues of the "Q" offense? Will you write a play based loosely on the Oregon game? Your audience waits on pins and needles and quick-reference dictionaries.
Keep up the good work, DL.
Bellow.
Sincerely,
OBNUG
Ps. Please stop with the vague injury updates (ex. Jeron Johnson may or may not have hurt his foot). We'd hate to have BSU campus security forcibly remove you from practice.
Half-hearted NFL football week two
Week two of the NFL preseason is here. Time for the starters to put in a full quarter-and-a-half of work!
Former Boise State player Kimo von Oelhoffen did not make it out of week one, getting cut by the Philadelphia Eagles for having old knees. Who's going to tell stories about the 1970's at team dinner? Andy Reid made a big mistake.
Here are the best Bronco-related games of the weekend:
Tonight:
Oakland at Tennessee, 6:00pm, FOX
Chris Carr seeks revenge against his old team by returning the opening kickoff, playing a few downs on defense, and taking a nap on the bench for the third and fourth quarters.
Saturday:
Dallas at Denver, 7:00pm
Orlando Scandrick was impressive in his Cowboys' debut. Ryan Clady was not in his first start for Denver. Needless to say that Woody Paige will be watching with bated breath.
Green Bay at San Francisco, 7:00pm
Korey Hall and Daryn Colledge continue their futile quest to boost Aaron Rodgers' confidence and make him feel like the team is much better off with him rather than Brett Favre.
Chicago at Seattle, 7:00pm
Seahawks TE Jeb Putzier is battling for playing time at tight end. Fortunately, the good Bears linebackers will be on the field far less than the bad Bears linebackers.
Morning paper: Boise State football links 8/15
The Broncos had an afternoon/evening practice last night, and Dustin Lapray has some details on what went down. Specifically, he points out that Travis Stanaway and Daron Mackey are two newcomers who are getting Coach Pete's attention and that Bush Hamdan should win the starting quarterback job. Sigh. We thought you were different, Dustin.
Here is some more reading material for your day.
Camp notes from the IPT [Press-Tribune]
Two sentences is better than no sentences.
Coach Pete immortalized in Twin Falls newspaper [Times-News]
We would run through a brick wall for him, and we don't even know him.
Tickets still available for home games [Dave's Blog]
The LaTech is not all that popular. Imagine that.
Reggie Larry to start career in Cyprus [KTVB.com]
Good luck in South America...or Europe..or wherever Cyprus is.
Cal Poly could possibly join the WAC [KVNU]
They would immediately be the seventh-best team.
Nick Saban named most powerful coach in sports [Forbes]
USU's Brent Guy named weakest?
Season tickets arrive [Fight Fight BSU]
No wonder the line was so long at Dairy Queen last night. Celebrate!
Odds of winning at Oregon [What If Sports]
Computers say Broncos have 41% chance. Kellen Moore's left arm says otherwise.
Aaron Tevis playing time update [Statesman]
May get to rush the passer in special packages. Fine by us.
Linebackers in focus [Statesman]
Broncos focus on finishing [Press-Tribune]
Chris Carr turning heads in Tennessee [Tennessean]
Thursday, August 14, 2008
QB battle: Moore vs. Hamdan: Day 11
The most important decision in the history of the world will be made in the next few weeks, and we'll be providing daily updates on all the hype and hyperbole surrounding the Boise State quarterback competition.
Vs. 
Coach Pete spoke about the quarterback race yesterday, but not in the way that anyone had hoped.
Petersen said he didn’t learn anything new about the quarterbacks competing for the starting job, senior Bush Hamdan and freshman Kellen Moore. They continue to split time with the first team.As much as we want to know who the starter will be, we know that the Bronco coaching staff is doing the right thing by waiting as long as it takes to make sure they pick the right guy. In the meantime, we can keep getting our hopes up that maybe we'll have an answer soon. Like tomorrow?
Offensive coordinator Brian Harsin said the race was similar to last season with both quarterbacks basically in a dead heat, including a so-so first scrimmage. Like last season, the competition will continue for another week at least.Bummer.
Moore: taught Coach Pete nothing in the first scrimmage
Hamdan: also taught Coach Pete nothing in the first scrimmage
Advantage: Rosetta Stone.
In the lead...Moore. Day 11 of the quarterback competition just happens to match his jersey number. Serendipity?
Nevada preview: hurry before the window closes
Previewing the WAC seems like a good job for an intern. Unfortunately, we do not have an intern. Ugh. Previously: Utah State, Fresno State, Hawaii, SJSU, LaTech. Today: Nevada.
Nevada
Team motto: Reno is for winnersThe WAC is typically a three-team conference, which is kind of sad considering that nine teams actually play there. In years past, any number of different WAC schools not including the University of Idaho have jumped into the big three alongside the traditional favorites of Boise State and Fresno State.
Might it be Nevada's turn again? Well, it certainly isn't anybody else's!
The Wolf Pack have the look of a stereotypically successful WAC team: high-scoring offense, afterthought defense, and a coach with a name people recognize although they're not sure why. And their performance last season gives the program hope that maybe this year will be the year they win the WAC outright. Aren't they cute when they're unrealistic?
With Colin Kaepernick at quarterback, Luke Lippincott at running back, and the Pistol offense playing the role of crazy Uncle Eddie, this team has all the right ingredients for an entertaining and possibly fruitful season. Just keep Uncle Eddie away from the light bulbs.
Five questions
Luke Lippincott isn't really better than Ian Johnson...is he?
My heart says no, but my 2007 statistical almanac says yes. According to last season's numbers, Lippincott is the WAC's most mathematically excellent back, by way of his conference-best 1420 yards. Johnson still holds the edge in touchdowns, undefeated seasons, and knit beanies, but the emergence of backs like Lippincott are what has the media buzzing about the WAC's new running focus.
Quick! Name one player on the Nevada defense!
Um...er...(stammering)...uhhh...(flipping through Phil Steele's college preview magazine)...
What scares you the most about the Nevada offense?
Plenty of things scare us about the Nevada offense, but perhaps the scariest part of their attack is its insane unevenness. Check out how many points they scored in some of their games last year:
- vs. Nebraska, 10
- vs. UNLV, 20
- vs. Fresno State, 41
- vs. Boise State, 67
- vs. Hawaii, 26
- vs. San Jose State, 24
- vs. LaTech, 49
- vs. New Mexico, 0
If Colin Kaepernick could be any type of weather, what would he be?
Kaepernick is a free spirit who does not like being tied down to expectations or consistency or the pocket. He would be a cloud, roaming free through the beautiful blue sky without a worry in the world. "Why hello, Mr. Sunshine," Kaepernick might say. "Do you mind if I overthrow you on an out route? You don't? Oh happy day!" Clouds don't have to read defenses or put balls on the numbers; they can go wherever they want, whenever they want. And Chris Ault can't do anything about it.
Give me one reason to think that Nevada is not the same old Nevada as always.
The law of averages and this:
Over/unders
+/- 2:1 ratio of pass attempts to rushes for Kaepernick
+/- 69 points Boise State scores against Nevada this season
+/- 0 times the Wolf Pack elect to kick when they win the toss
Nevada could cause a lot of problems for teams this season...teams like Grambling State, Utah State, and Idaho. The rest of their schedule? It's anybody's guess. New Mexico shut out the Wolf Pack in the teams' bowl game last year, and in so doing, the Lobos gave everyone a blueprint on how to slow the Nevada offense. (Tip: the quarterback can't throw.)
No matter how well the WAC schedule plays out for Nevada, their non-conference slate may cost them any chance of BCS talk. They play Texas Tech and Missouri in back-to-back weeks, and chances are good that they won't be able to knock off both Big XII powerhouses. Too bad Baylor was busy.
They do have enough talent to be a solid WAC team, though. On any given day, they can outscore their opponent, and if they find some consistency with the offense and some teeth for the defense, they will be in fine shape. Their visit to Fresno in early November should define their season. If they can get past the Bulldogs, then they can start thinking WAC title...that is, until they play Boise State two weeks later.
Perfect situation
Nevada beats one of the BCS teams on the non-conference schedule, Kaepernick completes more than 50 percent of his passes, Wolf Pack cruises undefeated through the WAC, Lippincott becomes Heisman candidate, Ault and the Pistol offense ride off intot the sunset to live happily ever after
Reality
The Wolf Pack get swept by the BCS teams on their non-conference schedule, Kaepernick turns the Pistol offense into the Wing-T, Nevada cruises through the WAC until Boise State, settles for a Hawaii Bowl appearance
Final record: 8-4 overall, 6-2 conference
Feeling the burn: USC gets the itch
Not the headline you want to see. More puns to follow.
USC dealing with jock itch breakout [FOX Sports]
Clady strong, Scandrick fast in Madden 09
The latest version of Madden was released on Tuesday, much to the dismay of our social calendar. Seriously, between Boise State football and video games, we're booked for the next few months.
While each year brings new features to the game (Cris Collinsworth, anyone?), the updated rosters get people talking just as much as anything else. An 85 overall rating for Matt Leinart? Please. At least it appears that the Madden folks have the numbers right for Boise State's two newest NFL stars.
Ryan Clady
- Overall: 79
- Morale: 95
- Acceleration: 85
- Strength: 87
- Runblock: 80
- Passblock: 88
Orlando Scandrick
- Overall: 73
- Speed: 97
- Acceleration: 97
- Awareness: 42
- Man coverage: 79
- Zone coverage: 78
Madden lists Clady's catching ability as a 45. They must not have seen the Idaho game.
Player ratings [IGN.com]
Fastest players in Madden [List After List]
Morning paper: Boise State football links 8/14
Woodruff named camper of the day [BroncoSports]
Take that, defensive line!
Recap of evening practice [BSU blog]
It's almost as if you were there.
Sean Bingham and the D-line [Statesman]
The Statesman's position-by-position preview begins.
Jamar Taylor spotlight [Statesman]
Happy to be in Boise so he won't "get in trouble."
Bart Hendricks asks the obvious [ISZ]
O-line should be focus of debate, not quarterback.
It's not easy being a walk-on [Press-Tribune]
Scholarships get the chicks.
Nevada to face BYU in 2010 [ESPN.com]
Oh yeah? Well, Boise State plays Toledo, so there.
Hitting QBs in practice sounds like a bad idea [SI.com]
GaTech QB Josh Nesbitt agrees.
Hawaii QB decision looming [Star Bulletin]
As is the potential for a five-win season.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
QB battle: Moore vs. Hamdan: Day 10
The most important decision in the history of the world will be made in the next few weeks, and we'll be providing daily updates on all the hype and hyperbole surrounding the Boise State quarterback competition.
Vs. 
The Bronco quarterback competition is into the double digits now, and we are still without a starter for the Idaho State game. Hmm, when we say it like that, it doesn't seem like such a big deal.
Hamdan: Threw a touchdown to Vinny Perretta, threw an interception to Kyle Wilson
Moore: Threw left-handed
Advantage: Push. An interception washes out a touchdown, and left-handed people make us feel awkward.
In the lead...Moore. He's living off his scrimmage performance, which is pretty much all anyone has to go off of now.
[UPDATE] Camp notes: 85-yard TD pass and a Doug Martin sighting
Update: Dustin Lapray has filed his camp report. Tally-ho!
The Broncos are back on the practice field today (Thank goodness! Don't ever leave us again!), and they seem to have recovered well from a listless scrimmage. Touchdown bombs, interceptions, and false starts: at least it wasn't boring.
From Dave's Blog:
There were a heck of a lot more big plays than in recent practices. The defense dominated the first set of 11-on-11, but the offense played well in the middle part of practice, highlighted by a great 85-yard touchdown from Bush Hamdan to Vinny Perretta. That being said, the defense saw a pair of interceptions from Cedric Febis and Kyle Wilson in the final few minutes of practice
One of the picks was thrown by Hamdan, just in case you were getting your hopes up that someone was pulling away in this quarterback race.
While Southorn's report was encouraging, the Statesman's Chadd Cripe brings us some slightly more discouraging news:
Bad snaps, false starts and quick sacks left the offense frustrated.
But it wasn't all bad, right Chadd?
Freshman tailback Doug Martin darted up the middle for 35 yards.
Thanks. That makes us feel better.
The Broncos will have another practice later today, and we'll update this post as needed throughout the afternoon..
OBNUG's 500th post: bring on the carpal tunnel!
We debated for awhile what we would do for our 500th post. A 10,000-word tome on Marty Tadman? An expose into the underbelly of the Boise State ticket office? A Fiesta Bowl haiku? But we decided to celebrate with a small pat on the back and move on to bigger and better Bronco things. Like practices we're not invited to.
We'd like to thank our readers for putting up with our narrow vocabulary that all too often resorts to the word "awesome." We'd like to thank Utah State for their willingness to be the butts of many jokes. But most importantly, we'd like to thank our Boise State Broncos for being the best team in the country to cover and root for. We never imagined that we'd have this much to write about, but we couldn't be happier with the way things have gone for this website. The Broncos will always have our loyalty, long after our keyboards and typing fingers quit working. We've had lots of fun over the past 500 posts, and we look forward to the next 500 (a.k.a. October).
In honor of our 500th post, we'll be revealing a big surprise on Monday (don't worry, we didn't sell out or anything). It will be worth the wait. Stay tuned.
Alex Guerrero visits Bronco podcast
The latest Bronco Nation N.O.W. podcast is up, and it is entirely more professional than ever. Boise State's new Spanish color commentator, Alex Guerrero, paid a visit to discuss Bronco football, sprinting, and how you say "Fresno State is overrated" in Spanish.
Take a listen. Here's the link: Bronco Nation N.O.W. podcast.
Morning paper: Boise State football links 8/13
No practice yesterday? Coach Pete must be getting soft. The Broncos will return to the field today in preparation for their final public scrimmage on Saturday (7:00pm at Bronco Stadium) and we'll bring you the recap later. Let's hope it involves quarterback separation.
BSU individual game tickets on sale tomorrow [Broncosports.com]
Blowouts guaranteed or your money back.
Derrell Acrey feature story [Times-News]
Twin Falls media expects big things.
WAC travel costs are mounting [Statesman]
As is discrepancy between top teams and bottom teams.
Nevada QB enjoys horses a little too much [ESPN.com]
We did not see this story coming.
Sky club photos [Statesman]
Furniture brought to you by Target sale rack.
Enderle eats up Idaho defense in scrimmage [KTVB.com]
Mmm, second-rate defensive backs.
CBS Sportline writer confesses Fresno love [CBS Sportsline]
Also, feel free not to let past precedent get in the way of your predictions.
Seattle Bowl? No thanks. We're good. [Seattle Times]
Sounds like an excuse to get the Washington Huskies into a bowl.
The official website of Colt Brennan [ColtBrennan5.com]
Feel free to check out the Colt forum. Or don't.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Brian Murphy gets people talking, flaming
Everybody's favorite Statesman columnist is back to what he does best: incite anger.
Murphy jumped on a story on FOXSports.com about the Broncos that we linked to this morning regarding their being ranked as the best college football team from the last decade. The story is really not that big of a deal. FOX Sports didn't write it. Some Bleacher Report guy did. Bleacher Report is an open community for sports writers to give their opinions, and FOX Sports picks up an occasional story here and there.
Nevertheless, Murphy found the story important enough to blog about, and needless to say, he disagreed with it.
Still, it's tough to see how a team with one top-5 finish in the polls and no national titles (Boise State) is better than a team like USC, which won back-to-back national titles in the last decade.
Come on, Fox. This is plain ridiculous.
And then all hell broke loose in the comments section. Here is just a taste of the maelstrom of opinion:
I hate Murphy. Even if you feel that way as a local sports writer you have a lot of hate for our team and it is so easy to see in your writing of them. No one likes you in Boise except Vandal fans!
...and...
I do not know how he still has a job. Move to Moscow or Pocatello. OR if you dont have anyting nice to say just shut up
...not to mention...
You are entitled to your opinion and that is fine, you hate BSU, ok. My point again is that I do not think a local sports writer should have your negative opinion and always express teh negative side and view of our local team that most of us love in our local paper. He doesn't fit. I should not get angry every time I have to read his negative views of our team in MY LOCAL PAPER every day. You say then don't read it. It is one of the only things I have to keep up on my team. Most of us want a writer that gets us excited about our team and points out the positives. That is the point.
...and one more for good measure...
PLEASE STATESMAN PLEASE READ THIS. Give us a writer who gets excited about our local team and get us a writer who is excited about writing about them and actually likes them. Get rid of this bum. You would be doing us and from his writing I believe him a favor by doing so.
There were plenty more where that came from. At the time of this post, Murphy's article had racked up 56 comments. To put that in perspective, Chadd Cripe openly solicited comments about the quarterback race in a blog post last week. He got 46 replies.
Fortunately, some good came of this. One level-headed commenter set Murphy straight and gave everyone hope that there is a better alternative out there.
Murph, I am sure you read these comments. Understand that I don't live in Idaho. I live in St. George, UT. There is nothing in the way of Boise State coverage down here. I look to the Statesman to keep me informed. While I applaud you for remaining objective and fair most of the time, I have to agree with the masses this time. You purposely are misleading your readership with this blog entry.
For the rest of you out there who feel like I do, there is a little known website out there that I've found has all the Boise State information one could want. It's called 'One Bronco Nation Under God' and you can access it at www.obnug.com.
I wouldn't be one bit surprised if Murph found this FoxSports.com piece by going to OBNUG himself and seeing the link that was posted this morning.
Glad to see this whole thing could come to a fair and just conclusion.
Boise State #1 football team over last decade? [Murph's Turf]
Update: Murphy has been compelled to respond.
Fresno State also willing to schedule easy teams
Anyone, anywhere, anytime...especially UC Davis.
Fresno State to play UC Davis in 2009 [ESPN.com]
Utah State preview: board the train to nowheresville
Previewing the WAC seems like a good job for an intern. Unfortunately, we do not have an intern. Ugh. Previously: SJSU, LaTech, Fresno State, Hawaii. Today: Utah State. 
Utah State
Team motto: "Failure is totally an option"By far, the high point of last year for the Utah State Aggies was winning in consecutive weeks against Idaho and New Mexico State to finish the season. If that doesn't set the recruiting trail abuzz, then we don't know what will.
The Aggies have even higher hopes this season now that they have momentum and a full roster of players to work with. Could their two-win 2007 turn into a four-win 2008? Talk about a program on the rise!
At this point, head coach Brent Guy will take anything. His tenure in Logan has been short on winning and long on blowouts, and no matter how you classify last season's two-game winning streak, it doesn't change the fact that the Aggies have been just plain bad. If Utah State has plans on contending in the deep waters of the WAC, they are going to have to overcome their fears of sailing one way or another.
Five questions
Does anyone want to play quarterback at Utah State?
From the looks of things, the answer is "no," followed shortly thereafter by an "Are you kidding me? They're terrible!" First, the Aggies lost quarterback Riley Nelson to rival BYU in what was later termed as upward mobility. Then one of the key competitors in the fall quarterback race, Jase McCormick, up and quit once fall camp started, citing a lack of "interest" (read: winning) in "football" (read: getting Utah State chicks). Can you blame them? Well, Brent Guy probably can because now he is left with senior Sean Setzer holding the reins to the offense. You can loosen your grip, Sean. The offense isn't going anywhere.
What's this new weight room I am hearing so much about?
Utah State is at least doing things right with their facilities and infrastructure. Over the summer, they replaced their athletic director and duped the new guy into thinking that the football program can be a viable income source some day. Sucker. As a result, the Aggies have a brand new training facility that is either state-of-the-art or better-than-whatever-high-school-we-were-at-before. The press release was not clear.
The Aggies are hoping that the upgraded facilities will bring in new recruits, and their hopes are being met at least a little bit this season. USU will have the full allotment of roster players for the first time since people believed Guy was the right choice for the job. In other words, the first time in a long time.
Does Brent Guy keep fresh copies of his resume on hand, you know, just in case?
Hey, we were just speaking about Guy! As a former Boise State assistant coach, we wish we didn't have to poke fun at his win-loss record (6-29) or his striking resemblance to Mr. Belvedere.
Jake Hutton: superstar by association or statistical anomaly?
The Aggies' "star" linebacker gets credit for being a good player on a bad defense. His stats reflect as much: 102 tackles and a sack only because no one else had the desire to sack and/or tackle. To be sure, WAC offenses will gameplan for Hutton but only because there is no one else to gameplan for and they'd get bored otherwise. The jury's still out on whether or not returning nine starters on defense is a good thing or a bad thing.
Describe in a picture what will happen when Utah State visits Oregon.
Over/Unders
+/- 1 minute, 30 seconds into their first game it takes for the Aggies to lose the momentum from last season+/- 3 starting quarterbacks, in addition to Jase McCormick, who suddenly decide that football just isn't their thing
+/- 7 thirty-point losses
Are things improving at Utah State? From certain angles, yes. But in the big picture, the Aggies are still the Aggies.
Certainly, building a modern weight facility is a good start. Thick-necked high school seniors will appreciate that. But the product on the field is several years behind in the quest for belonging in the WAC.
With no clear-cut leader of the offense and nothing to scare opponents on defense, the Aggies have the look of a typical Aggies team...except with more guys standing on the sideline. Having a full roster must be great for practice ("We don't have to play both ways any more! Hooray!"), but unless the roster is full of four- and five-star recruits, it won't matter much on Saturdays.
Speaking of not mattering, that's the case for Utah State again. And so long as the Aggie administration is happy with that, Brent Guy should be back to do it all again next year.
Perfect situation
NCAA allows Utah State to play with 13 men, Aggies win three games instead of twoReality
the offense struggles to score, the defense struggles to matter, USU loses to Idaho, Brent Guy takes head coaching job at Cole Valley Christian High School in MeridianFinal record: 2-10 overall, 1-7 conference
QB battle: Moore vs. Hamdan vs. Lomax(?): Day 9
The most important decision in the history of the world will be made in the next few weeks, and we'll be providing daily updates on all the hype and hyperbole surrounding the Boise State quarterback competition.
Vs .
Vs .
Guessing who the starting quarterback will be based solely on the media reports from practice is hard. So with the Broncos' first public scrimmage in the books, we finally have some biased personal opinion to throw into the mix.
There was no clear-cut winner in the quarterback race yesterday. There was really no clear-cut winner of anything. But one thing's for sure is that whoever gets names the starter will have to be good at scrambling, making plays on the run, and handing the ball off.
The Moore vs. Hamdan debate, at least for one day this fall, should make room for Nick Lomax. The hard luck junior had the best efficiency rating out of the three QBs, which should earn him at least a mention in the competition conversation. Although, running against third teamers would make anyone look good. Right, Kevin Sapien?
Moore: 9-of-22 for 137 yards and a touchdown. Looks very much in control of the offense. Seems to always come up big in game situations. Goes through his reads too quickly. Moves well. Has big-play potential.
Hamdan: 5-of-15 for 48 yards. Feels pressure and moves well within the pocket. Throws with confidence. Forces balls into tight spots. Tends to lock on to receivers. Smells like a leader.
Lomax(!): 7-of-9 for 68 yards. Owns the third-team defense. Is tall. Delivers the ball on time and with accuracy. Has virtually no chance of being starting quarterback.
Advantage: Moore.
In the lead...Moore. The freshman jumped over the senior in our minds with his performance in the first scrimmage. He seemed to handle his situations the best out of all four quarterbacks, and he made the right decision on almost every play. With the line the way that it is, Moore looks the best under center because so much of his potential is on the run, outside of the pocket. Hamdan is just a bit behind, but all could change over the next five days.
First scrimmage short on excitement, long on potential
The Broncos' first scrimmage of the fall went about as planned, provided you were planning on few big plays, lots of missed blocking assignments, and absolutely no idea who will be the starting quarterback in 18 days.
The reports from the media kind of made it seem like the end of the world out there, but it's not like Jon Gott was taking his shirt off or anything. Then the newspapers might have had something to complain about. From what we saw of the scrimmage, it looked pretty similar to one of the lackadaisical scrimmages from the spring, except it was hotter. And Bob Behler was there.
Are we panicking? Of course not. If anything, we are stoked because we got to see the Broncos play for the first time in months. They'll have all the issues ironed out by Saturday (the next scrimmage), and we'll be in for a good show.
Here are some observations from the first scrimmage of the fall:
- Blitz!
- Johnson!
- Blocking!
- Indecision!
- Heft!
- Drops!
Morning paper: Boise State football links 8/12
There is plenty to talk about regarding the first scrimmage of the fall, and before we get into our take on things, let's hear what the Internets have to say. Aren't we gracious?
Fall scrimmage reports
- Moore vs. Hamdan vs. everyone else still up in the air [Fight Fight BSU]
- QB stats and Coach Pete audio [Dave's Blog]
- Gassers do not sound like fun [Bronco Beat]
- Taylor Tharp and Coby Karl were there. Party! [Press-Tribune]
- Did Dustin Lapray just start his post with a bandana story? [BSU Blog]
- Photos and feedback from the scrimmage [Statue Left]
We're already on it, but thanks anyway for the invitation.
The O-line has some work to do [Press-Tribune]
Rushing for 2.3 yards is far too San Jose State-ish.
von Oelhoffen released by Eagles [Statesman]
Carson Palmer's knee laughs an evil laugh.
Boise State best team of last decade [FOX Sports]
We'll take it even if it's only FOX Sports who's giving it.
Injuries strike Vandal line [Statesman]
Good thing they have depth. Oh wait. Never mind.
Week One predictions [What If Sports]
Boise State should be safe.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Boise State scrimmage: questions that need answering
The Boise State Broncos will take the field later this afternoon for the first scrimmage of fall camp, and we could not be more excited. We could also not be more curious.
Over the inexorably long summer, we had plenty of time to sit around and think up open-ended questions about the Broncos upcoming season. And with practices being closed to the public, we have had to cobble together answers based on spotty play-by-play from the local media.
Not today. This afternoon we will finally get a chance to put the pieces together for ourselves about this 2008 Bronco team. Here is what we'll be looking for:
Will Ian Johnson's backup be D.J. Harper or Jeremy Avery? One of these two should be in line to get the scraps of Johnson's carries, and thus far through the first week of camp, they seem to be pretty even. Harper and Avery? Avery and Harper? We'll see in a little bit.
Can we forget the whole "Q" formation ever happened? The Broncos' spring surprise was a version of Nevada's pistol that looked pretty cool right up until the snap when everything fell apart. For that matter, what will shotgun snaps look like? The Boise State centers have had all summer to perfect the art of throwing footballs between their legs, so there should be some improvement. We're willing to reconsider the "Q," but the Broncos are going to have to do an awful lot of convincing.
Do you think we'll recognize Jeremy Childs? Absence makes the heart grow fonder...at least that's what we told ourselves when the girls we liked wouldn't return our phone calls. Childs has been off the field for what seems like an eternity. It will be the highlight of our August to see him running routes beside Titus Young, Austin Pettis, Vinny Perretta, and others.
Could Mike T. Williams and Ryan Winterswyck get sacks on every play? We're pretty sure they could if they wanted to. Out of all the Bronco storylines going into this year, these two defensive ends are the ultimate headliners. Hyperbole alert: they could be the greatest pass rushing duo that the WAC has ever seen! We are literally giddy with excitement.
Which Kyle Brotzman will show up? In spring practice, we saw the inaccurate, complacent Kyle Brotzman, but we really want to see the precise, confident Brotzman from a season ago. We'll attribute the spring misses to Brock Jaramillo's extortion tactics. Let's hope things are better today.
Will Dustin Lapray be wearing a derby with a feather? The Magic Valley Times journalist/poet/worsdworth writes like he has been transported out of 17th century literature, and his BSU blog reads more like a Shakespearean play than a football practice report.
Oh, and we may be a little interested in seeing some of the quarterbacks throw.
Before you head to the scrimmage, make sure to print yourself a roster.
Clady's first game as a pro does not please Woody Paige
In NFL preseason games over the weekend, several former Boise State players saw action, much to Woody Paige's chagrin.
First round pick Ryan Clady had a harsh introduction to the NFL against the Mario Williams and the Houston Texans. From the Denver Post (via Scott Slant), here is Woody Paige's take on Clady's performance. Note: we do not place much credence in anything Woody Paige has ever said.
"Ryan Clady, the No. 1 pick, became the first Broncos' rookie to start the opening exhibition at left tackle, and he looked every bit of it. Clady played the entire first half and was flattened like a dry-cleaned starched shirt in the beginning, and often. He was overmatched against Texans defensive end Mario Williams (the former No. 1 pick overall). He will need help."Well, we're sure Boise State would take him back if that would help matters any.
The Post's game recap was a little more balanced in its perspective of the Clady/Williams matchup, which probably just goes to show that Woody Paige does not know how to objectively watch football.
Fortunately, other Boise State alumni had better luck than Clady, especially Orlando Scandrick and Jeb Putzier. Scandrick had three tackles, one sack, and two kickoff returns in a Cowboys loss. Putzier caught a 15-yard touchdown pass from Seneca Wallace in a Seahawks win.Left tackle Ryan Clady got a rookie baptism from the Texans' star defensive end, Mario Williams. There were times when Williams knocked Clady back into his own backfield, but the Broncos' first-round draft choice did compete and gave Cutler time to throw on the touchdown drive.
Tonight, ESPN will have Korey Hall, Daryn Colledge, and the Packers...oh, and enough Brett Favre news to choke a horse. Let's hope the scrimmage runs long.
Bizarro Nevada fall scrimmage, defense beats offense
One of Boise State's chief WAC rivals this season will be the Nevada Wolf Pack, who should have one of the best offenses in the conferences. Supposedly.
Such was not the case in Nevada's first scrimmage of the fall yesterday.
The first scrimmage of the 2008 season went to the defense which scored twice and allowed only one score in a 90-minute and 90-plus play scrimmage Sunday at Mackay Stadium.The "D" returned a fumble and an interception for touchdowns and forced five turnovers total. Colin Kaepernick and Luke Lippincott, the two stars of the Nevada offense, were held to 102 yards combined, and OBNUG's pick for preseason WAC offensive player of the year, QB Nick Graziano, went 3-for-12.
By the way, the Nevada defense is terrible.
What should Bronco fans make of this result? Probably little. Seeing Nevada struggle on offense will undoubtedly encourage us to make some inappropriate jokes at their expense, but when all is said and done, the Nevada offense will be fine, the Nevada defense will be bad, and the WAC championship will still come down to Fresno State and Boise State.
In the meantime, we'll be snickering at Kaepernick's efficiency rating.
Defense dominates the day [Nevada Appeal]
Morning paper: Boise State football links 8/11
Happy Monday, Bronco fans. Today is the Broncos' first scrimmage of the fall from 3:00 to 5:30 this afternoon at Bronco Stadium. We'll be there, so feel free to come say hi. We'll be the ones with the Marty Tadman life-size cardboard cutout.
Saturday camp recap [Dave's Blog and Bronco Beat]
Ugh, two-a-days.
Sunday camp recap [Dave's Blog and Bronco Beat]
A Drew Hawkins TD run? We have no idea what is happening with this QB race.
Campers of the day [BroncoSports.com]
Spoiler alert: Martin, Mackey, and Brockel.
Dave Southorn's mohawk update [Dave's Blog]
This is probably what we would do if we had media credentials, too.
No Nate Potter vs. Idaho State [Press-Tribune]
Arthroscopic knee surgery for the new OT.
More no-huddle is fine by us [Press-Tribune]
So long as the no-huddle does not involve the "Q."
Hamdan love from the Statesman [Statesman]
Does Chadd Cripe have a crush?
The story behind the jersey numbers [Press-Tribune]
Coach Pete used to wear #9, which is our new favorite idea for a personalized jersey.
Interesting Jarrell Root story [Statesman]
Taking on Clady in practice couldn't have been easy.
Ian Johnson feature at [Pro Football Weekly]
It's like January 2007 all over again.
Robert Smith has lost his mind [PWtW]
ESPN "analyst" picks Kaepernick as Heisman candidate.
SMU ticket sales up by 50 percent [Dallas Morning News]
Hawaii ticket sales down by 50 percent?
Friday, August 8, 2008
WIR: Bronco Nation rejoice, football returns
Week in Review (WIR) had a wonderful summer vacation, thanks for asking. But now there's work to do. First off, about the weekend. The Broncos will be practicing Saturday and Sunday, and here are some places to go if you need a fix of Bronco news. (We're pretty sure you could have found these on your own; we just like mothering you.)
- Camp notes from Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and today
- WAC quarterbacks falling like flies.
- Zabransky not as clutch as people remember.
- The Statesman surprises.
- Fresno State team preview.
- WAC teams are unusually happy.
- Hawaii's season preview.
- Preseason football should be fun.
QB battle: Moore vs. Hamdan: Day 5
The most important decision in the history of the world will be made in the next few weeks, and we'll be providing daily updates on all the hype and hyperbole surrounding the Boise State quarterback competition.
Vs. 
The Press-Tribune has posted audio from Kellen Moore's post-practice press conference. Here's the link: Press-Tribune multimedia. We know what will be playing in David Augusto's iPod this weekend.
Here's today's breakdown:
Moore: connected with Titus Young on a deep TD, thought it was "awesome"
Hamdan: found Vinny Perretta for a long touchdown toss, celebrated with Geritol and extra-cautious high-fives
Advantage: Moore. Assuming Young will be on the field more often than Perretta, Kellen chose the right wideout to connect with.
In the lead...Hamdan. By a hair. And no, we have nothing to base this on.
Camp notes: pads are heavy and other new experiences
Today's Boise State practice was full of firsts:
- First time wearing full pads
- First time practicing on the new blue turf
- First time newcomers practiced with returners
- First time the offense showed up
- First time Paul J realized that Jeremy Childs and Jeremy Avery are different people.
"I was actually really disappointed with how I did last year," Harper said. "If I can stay healthy, I want to be a lot more productive."The offense finally showed some firepower with three long touchdown plays during practice today. Kellen Moore and Bush Hamdan threw for two of the scores, and Jeremy Avery broke a 45-yard TD run. It sure was nice of Ryan Winterswyck and Mike T. Williams to let them.
Chadd Cripe has details, too.
More on practice today if anything surfaces.
NFL preseason weekend: Scandrick vs. Naanee and more
There are plenty of Boise State players on NFL rosters this offseason (see our list for AFC and NFC), so there are plenty of reasons to cozy up to Rich Eisen and the NFL Network all weekend. Gerald Alexander and the Lions played last night (Alexander had one tackle), and there is a full slate of games over the next few days. Here are the top games to watch.
- Cowboys vs. Chargers, Sunday 8:00pm
Romo vs. Rivers. Tomlinson vs. Ware. Owens vs. Cromartie. Scandrick vs. Naanee? You can forget those first three matchups. It is preseason, remember? The Scandrick-Naanee battle will be the fun one to watch. Both former Boise State standouts should see significant playing time in this first preseason game, and there is a good chance that they might line up across from one another. Who will get the better of whom? Will they chat about the Boise Fanci Freez? Will the Hard Knocks cameras pick up on this?
- Broncos vs. Texans, Sunday 6:00pm
Ryan Clady will get his first taste of NFL action against Mario Williams and a whole bunch of Mario Williams' back-ups.
- Cincinnati vs. Green Bay, Monday 6:00pm, ESPN
Do you think the ESPN crew will talk much about Brett Favre? Only all the time! Try to cut through the Favre love shower to get your eye on Daryn Colledge and Korey Hall. The two former Bronco stars will still give you a reason to watch the Packer offense even though it does include more Aaron Rodgers than you might want.
- 49ers vs. Raiders, Saturday 8:00pm
Drisan James (Oakland) and Jerard Rabb (San Fran) are both battling for roster spots on their respective teams, and they'll need to make their mark early in the preseason to earn their shot. How about a re-creation of the Fiesta Bowl hook-and-ladder? We doubt Jared Zabransky is busy.
Morning paper: Boise State football links 8/8
Practice begins in earnest today as the players put on full pads and the newcomers join the returners for morning practice. David Augusto could NOT be more excited.
Brandyn Thompson named camper of the day [BroncoSports.com]
That brings the tally to Defense 3, Offense 1, Special teams: 0.
Get your Ian Johnson injury pdf [Press-Tribune]
Now the season can officially get underway.
Further details on Bronco practice [Times-News]
Dustin Lapray is nothing if not descriptive.
George Iloka is the man [Statesman]
He is more mature at the age of 18 than we are now.
Yakima loves adopted son Kellen Moore [Yakima Herald]
Reporting on other newspapers' polls must mean a slow news day.
Idaho needs wideouts [Statesman]
In addition to most everything else.
Elkin first to admit he was awful last year [Statesman]
Punting is not as easy as it looks apparently.
Freshman DT Michael Atkinson could be good [Dave's Blog]
At least a few of these freshmen are going to see playing time. Why not the big one?
Nevada is so weird [ESPN.com]
First hynotism. Now volleyball. What's next? Improv?
Beer and fantasy sports are here to stay [SI.com]
Maybe there is hope for college football after all.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
QB battle: Moore vs. Hamdan: Day 4
The most important decision in the history of the world will be made in the next few weeks, and we'll be providing daily updates on all the hype and hyperbole surrounding the Boise State quarterback competition.
Vs. 
Today was an ugly day in the Boise State quarterback competition, as the Bronco defense picked off six passes. Though throwing six interceptions might be good enough to win Nathan Enderle the starting job at Idaho, the same is not true of the Boise State QBs. Here is where things stand after four days.
Moore: was picked off at least once
Hamdan: was picked off at least twice
Advantage: Direct snaps to Ian Johnson.
In the lead: Joe Southwick. The quarterback recruit for the class of 2009 did not have an interception today...that we know of.
Camp notes: defense making up for lost time
The defense is typically ahead of the offense during the first few days of fall camp. But six-interceptions ahead? That's just showing off.
According to the reports from the morning session, the Boise State D got to Bronco quarterbacks six times, which is nearly half as many interceptions as the defense had all of last year. Who all got a pick? Here's the list.
- Derrell Acrey
- Brandyn Thompson
- Derrell Acrey again
- Keith McGowen
- George Iloka
- Aaron Tevis
- Chadd Cripe
If you are curious about hearing an Ian Johnson interview, the Press-Tribune has the audio up on its site. We'll be updating this post with any breaking news throughout the afternoon.
Hawaii preview: live in the past, it's better there
Previewing the WAC seems like a good job for an intern. Unfortunately, we do not have an intern. Ugh. Previously: San Jose State, LaTech, and Fresno State. Today: Hawaii.
Hawaii
Team motto: "What would Colt Brennan do?"Last season, the Hawaii Warriors reached the pinnacle of the non-BCS mountain, which only made their fall that much harder. And farther. And more humiliating.
Losing to Georgia quickly put an end to their undefeated dreams (not that their WAC championship rings got the memo), and now look at them. No Colt Brennan. No June Jones. Four fewer cocky wide receivers. This is nowhere near the same Hawaii team we saw last year.
But before you go writing the Warriors off, new head coach Greg McMackin would like to remind you that they still have 85 percent of the team back. He’d also like to remind you that Coke now has fewer calories.
Five questions
Hawaii plays defense?
This year they do. In fact, Hawaii has some of the best defenders in the WAC with LBs Solomon Elimimian and Adam Leonard and DE David Veikune. These players will be key to whatever the Warriors hope to do this season, whether it be competing for another WAC title or simply not losing to San Jose State.
Could Hawaii be the least convincing defending conference champion of all-time?
We have yet to find a single person who thinks that the Warriors will repeat as WAC champs. Not even Trev Alberts in his prime would touch this team. The Warriors simply have too much turnover in key places to be in the conversation for the WAC championship. When the Broncos lose a lot of players, they have the depth to reload and be right back at the top of the conference next year. When Hawaii loses a lot of players, McMackin drowns his sorrows in Fanta and thinks happy thoughts.
I miss Colt Brennan.
You are not alone. The island legend was largely responsible for the success of the team the last few years, but he certainly will not be forgotten at Hawaii, especially when Inoke Funaki is throwing up prayers into triple coverage. Brennan's imprint on the program will remain until the Warriors can find a capable replacement. Funaki may be it. So, too, might junior college transfer Greg Alexander. But secretly, the islands are pulling for Tyler Graunke, and by "pulling," we mean "writing his papers for him." Graunke might be back from academic suspension soon, and he may have time to win the starting job before the season starts.
If the Warriors are not rebuilding, then what exactly are they doing?
The word "rebuilding" is a dirty word on the campus of UH. So, too, is "perspective." Of course this team is rebuilding! They lost half of their offense from last year, the greatest coach in team history left, and Georgia gave everyone a blueprint on how to shut down the run 'n shoot. But if they don't want to use the term "rebuilding," we can respect their wishes. Besides, that's what our Roget's thesaurus is for. Do "renovating," "refurbishing," or "improvising" sound better?
Would Hawaii have gone undefeated last year if they were playing this year's schedule?
The Warriors sailed to the Sugar Bowl on the coattails of an easy schedule, and rest assured that the same thing would not have happened with the murderer's row Hawaii has on tap this fall. Good bye, Northern Colorado. Hello, Florida. Wish you could stay longer, Charleston Southern. Make yourself at home, Cincinnati. At least Weber State will be dropping by for a visit or else the Warriors might have been in serious trouble. Can you say drinking Mylanta straight from the bottle?
Over/Unders
+/- 12,000 Colt Brennan jerseys in the crowd this year
+/- 4 Inoke Funaki jerseys
+/- 3 games where the Warriors score fewer points than the defense has turnovers
The most intriguing part of the fall of Hawaii is that they are no longer intriguing. Hawaii games were known for being shoot-outs; this year they may more closely resemble defensive struggles. No one wants to stay up until 3:00 a.m. eastern to watch that! With their stars gone, the hype and attention typically paid to the program is as non-existent as a "Tyler Graunke 4 Heisman" t-shirt.
Another intriguing part about their fall is that they haven't really fallen yet. The media is quick to bury Hawaii before a single game is even played, yet the Warriors could turn out to be a decent team when all is said and done. They have strong players on defense, Graunke knows what he's doing most of the time, WR Malcolm Lane has potential, and much of the coaching staff returns.
Unfortunately, decent is a long way from good. The WAC has too many other good teams for the Warriors to make much noise. They've lost too many key players, their schedule is daunting, and the momentum from a season ago is only a memory. In other words, we're going to need more Coke.
Perfect situation
McMackin finds a time machine, visits the past to steal Colt Brennan, Warriors go undefeated, face Georgia in championship game, lose by fewer points this timeReality
the offense struggles, the early schedule puts the Warriors in a hole, Tyler Graunke puts the Warriors in a deeper hole, Hawaii loses winnable WAC games, McMackin lifts the moratorium on the word "rebuilding" for next offseasonFinal record: 5-8 overall, 4-4 conference
Morning paper: Boise State football links 8/7
Good morning, Bronco fans. We took part in a another Bronco Nation N.O.W. podcast the other night with the guys from Statue Left and BNN. Here's the link: BNN podcast. The podcast has a sponsor now, which means we have to watch what we say.
Here are today's links:
Mike T Williams named camper of the day [BroncoSports.com]
That makes two defensive ends in three days. Shea McClellin is so due.
Continuity with coaching makes a difference [Press-Tribune]
You hear that, Idaho?
Richie Brockel values education [Statesman]
If more people were like Brockel, the world would be a better place and with thicker necks.
Dustin Lapray is sweating [Magic Valley]
Packing so much information into a camp report is hard work.
Tommy Smith spotlight [Statesman]
Atlanta linebacker still looking for the Boise Chick-fil-a.
Ticket sales for Bronco games break more records [Statesman]
The draw of the Idaho Power Ball mascot has never been higher.
Fiesta Bowl named BCS's best game [CBS Sportsline]
Dennis Dodd, you are okay in our book.
Fresno State defense in trouble? [Fresno State football blog]
We sure hope so.
Tight ends in focus [Scott Slant]
That headline came out wrong.
Nevada taking New Mexico Bowl loss pretty hard [Gazette-Journal]
It's okay. New Mexico shuts out teams all the time. Like Sacramento State, for instance.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
QB battle: Moore vs. Hamdan: Day 3
The most important decision in the history of the world will be made in the next few weeks, and we'll be providing daily updates on all the hype and hyperbole surrounding the Boise State quarterback competition.
Vs. 
The Boise State quarterback competition is now into its third day, and we are no closer to finding out who will be manning the good ship Bronco come August 30th. Here is where things stand as of today.
Moore: Fumbled in the morning session. Looked small with shoulder pads on.
Hamdan: Reminisced about the early 1980's during line drills. Looked old with shoulder pads on.
Advantage: Push.
In the lead: Hamdan. Fortunately for him, ageism has no place among Bronco coaches.
Nailed it: ESPN has Idaho as worst team in the country
And the second year of the Robb Akey era is officially underway.
Bottom 10 [ESPN.com]
Camp notes: on with the pads, on with the fatigue
Fighting shoulder pads, heat, and the obvious emotional weight of not knowing enough facts about Jeremy Childs' suspension, the Boise State players are starting to look a little tired. The report from Wednesday's morning session was full of phrases like "wore down" and "take its toll." Just writing about it makes us want a PowerAde (purple flavor, of course).
Fortunately, the Broncos overcame the heavy legs to put in some good work in the morning session. Paint us a picture, Chadd Cripe.
The leading candidate for play of the day so far came from senior defensive end Mike T. Williams, who mauled freshman quarterback Kellen Moore from behind, knocked the ball loose and pounced on the fumble. It was a lineman's hat trick — sack, forced fumble, fumble recovery. In all, the defense recovered three fumbles in the practice.Paint us a more vivid picture, Dave Southorn.
Some good plays were made, most notably when senior defensive end Mike T. Williams pretty much enveloped Kellen Moore from behind, popping the ball loose and recovering the fumble.Quick! One of you tell us an amusing anecdote about George Iloka!
He is one of those unique personalities, sporting one of those late 80's flattops. He and Derrell Acrey did a handshake in the hallway at the Varsity Center like the one in the Kid 'n' Play movie "House Party."Brian Murphy, what do you got?
Boise State junior quarterback Nick Lomax offered his thoughts on the QB derby Wednesday...Eh, don't care.
Sounds like another good day at the office for the Broncos. The line played well in a blocking drill, and Jeremy Avery was running hard again. Does someone need to tell him that Ian Johnson is untouchable?
We'll update this post as we see fit throughout the afternoon.
WAC fall camps: hopes are high, better quit while you're ahead
The beautiful optimism of fall camp will give way to the tragic reality of the regular season before long, so WAC teams better enjoy it while it lasts.
Rest assured, they are. Here is a sampling of the high hopes at WAC schools across the country.
New Mexico State
Our favorite out-of-touch fanbase has some pretty unfounded expectations this season. But what's new, right?
The Aggies are expecting to make it to a bowl game this season. We think the Aggies will win between seven and nine games this season including a sweep of rivals UNM and UTEP which is something they haven't done since the 2002 seasonWe're not entirely sure who is expecting them to make a bowl game other than Hal Mumme, Hal Mumme's immediate family, the webmasters at holbrook4heisman.com, and crazy people.
Hyperbole courtesy of Bleed Crimson.
San Jose State
We always pictured Spartan head coach Dick Tomey as a sensible person, but even he can't help but get caught up in the kiddie-pool-wave of excitement surrounding his program.
Coach Dick Tomey, entering his fourth season at SJSU, said. "This should be our best team."Not sure if that's saying a whole lot.
Blind hope courtesy of the San Jose Mercury News.
Louisiana Tech
The Bulldogs are throwing a Fan Fest on August 10th to celebrate success that hasn't happened yet. We did the same thing when we threw a premature Prom Date Fest in high school.
Tech fans will have an opportunity to meet and greet this year’s players, coaches and administrators during the two-hour event while obtaining autographs and pictures. Numerous activities will be available for youngsters, such as games, face painting and more.We imagine that the more includes arm wrestling with Derek Dooley, a Taylor Bennett dunk tank, and a petting zoo.
Blatant hype courtesy of the News-Star.
Utah State
This week, Utah State quarterback Jase McCormick quit the team, leaving senior Sean Setzer as the leader in the Aggies' quarterback derby. Perhaps Setzer's joy over this news has adversely affected his decision-making.
"I think we can be really good this season," senior quarterback Sean Setzer said. "We have a lot of weapons; we have to play with more discipline so we can win the close games. But I definitely think we've made a big improvement over last season."Adding, "How could we not?"
Fish story courtesy of the Salt Lake Tribune
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