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Florida Heads 2010 Recruiting Class

Nolan Thomas Written by Nolan Thomas, Wednesday February 03 2010

Florida signed 28 players on Wednesday's national signing day and held onto the nation's top recruiting class this year.

 

It is the second time that the Gators have been the top recruiting school since Urban Meyer became the head coach five years ago.

 

"It's a tremendous effort my so many people," Meyer said. He called the class "a bunch of good players, a bunch of good guys."

 

Meyer had announced that he was leaving Florida and retiring from coaching to focus on his health, but then changed his mind and will continue to coach the Gators while only taking a break to get some medical tests and rest. Recently he was quoted as saying that he plans to be back on March 17 for the start of spring practice.

 

The 2010 class includes nine players from south Florida and 12 from out of state.

For the fifth straight year, the Gators signed one of the nation's top five classes in the ESPN recruiting rankings on Wednesday, and the defensive players signed made a huge impression. ESPN has Florida landing four of its 12 five-star recruits. Seventeen of the Gator commitments are rated in the ESPN top 150.

 

"I think defensively there is not a gap anywhere," said Scott Kennedy of Scout.com. "It fits Florida's needs because they didn't need offensive linemen."

 

Going into the final hours of signing day, Florida still ranks No. 1 in all the major recruiting rankings after a tight push from #2 Texas at the start of the day.

 

The recruits were led by the top defensive end Ronald Powell and the No. 1 and No. 2 top ranked defensive tackles in Sharrif Floyd and Dominique Easley, and the No. 2 safety Matt Elam, brother of Cleveland Browns star Abe Elam.

 

According to Scout.com, 11 of Florida's recruits were ranked in the top 10 at their position.

 

Rivals.com has Powell, Floyd and Easley rated 1-4-7 among the nation's top 10 recruits.

 

Elam, Floyd, Powell and Shaw all made the Parade All-America team.

 

Tom Lemming of CBS has Florida signing eight of his top 100. He calls Florida's class one of the best he's seen in a decade.

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The Overexposure of Tim Tebow

Bamababe2k9 Written by Bamababe2k9, Wednesday January 27 2010

To listen to the NFL experts this week, the Senior Bowl is the Tim Tebow Bowl. Just about every report out of Mobile is about Tebow. How Tebow looks in practice, his arm release, which team may pick him up in the draft, hell even about a commercial he is doing during the Super Bowl.

 

A reporter for the Atlanta Journal asked, why is Tebow disliked so much? Speaking as a fan of another SEC school, I don’t think it’s the public’s dislike of Tebow; it’s his overexposure by the media. Tebow is more overexposed then Greg Odom.  
 
The kid can’t help it, he is Mr. College Football. From the beginning when two of the top teams in the SEC (Alabama and Florida) were after his services, he has become a media darling, but you can’t really blame him. 
 
The media basically has forced him down our throats. Most of his games were televised on CBS or ESPN every weekend. Football analyst like Gary Danielson, acted as if they were going to have an orgasm every time they saw him play; he could do no wrong.  
 
When he lost the SEC Championship Game, there was a sense of glee and relief around the country; the mighty Superman had gone down. There was a sense of “finally” we don’t have to hear about this kid any more. Speaking for myself, I like the kid, but it didn’t hurt my feelings to see him cry on the sideline. For once in a long time, he got to taste defeat and for a lot of us, we were glad.  
 
It’s not like the kid never won anything. He had already won the Heisman, two national championships, and numerous SEC awards. Peyton Manning wasn’t this beloved when he came out of college.  
 
The public, quite frankly, are tired of Tim Tebow. We are tired about hearing that he and wide receiver Riley Cooper were roommates. We are tired of hearing about his mission work. We are tired of hearing about his virginity. Hell, we can’t even escape him Super Bowl Sunday because he and his mom are doing an ad for Focus on the Family about choosing life. 
 
I think we need positive role models in society, but my God, the kid is not super human; his Senior Bowl tryouts are proving that. But to hear the media talk, it’s like Tebow is the only guy playing Saturday and that’s what aggravates the rest of us and some media wonder why he is disliked? 
 
I hope Tebow gets a chance to prove himself on the next level, but I also hope that the rest of the media backs off, gives him a break and give the rest of the country a break too. Superman needs a vacation and so do the rest of us.
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Tebow in Controversial Super Bowl Ad

playerpress.com Written by playerpress.com, Wednesday January 27 2010

Tim Tebow, famed college quarterback for the Florida Gators, who may go down in history as the greatest college football player ever, might have never been.

 

Twenty three years ago, Tebow’s mother Pam, while on a missionary trip to the Philippines, was advised by her doctor to abort the fetus due to the fact that she contracted amoebic dysentery and the prescription medicine that she was taking could threaten her unborn baby.

 

His mother decided to ignore her doctor’s advice and on Aug. 14, 1987, Tim Tebow was born.  

 

This is the message that Tim Tebow and his mother Pam will convey on a controversial television ad that is scheduled to air during this years Super Bowl on Feb. 6th on CBS.   Pro-abortion rights activists’ have demanded that CBS pull the anti-abortion Super Bowl ad, which has created mild chaos after CBS agreed to air it. 

 

The ad is being paid for by the conservative Christian group Focus on the Family and tells the story of how Tim Tebow might never have been.

 

Tebow was the first college sophomore in history to win a Heisman trophy. He was the first college football player to both rush and pass for 20 touchdowns in a single season. He led the Florida Gators to two national championships in three years.

 

Arguably the highest profile player in college football recently, Tebow says that his mother's decision is big reason that he made the decision to participate in the Focus on the Family ad.

 

"I know some people won't agree with it," said Tebow of the 30-second ad. "But I think they can at least respect that I stand up for what I believe. I've always been very convicted of [his views on abortion] because that's the reason I'm here, because my mom was a very courageous woman."

 

Tebow has never been shy about his strong family values and Christian beliefs. Focus on the Family made a statement that the ad in question will highlight the theme "Celebrate family, celebrate life."

 

The ad will be different then most ads seen during the Super Bowl, which draws the largest TV audience year after year and usually has commercials featuring talking frogs and lizards and other humorous or business ads. 

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Superstar Football Recruit Matt Elam Commits to Florida

playerpress.com Written by playerpress.com, Saturday January 09 2010

Matt Elam, a superstar running back and linebacker at Dwyer High School in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., today committed to play for Florida.

 

Elam, a consensus top-5 national recruit who originally committed to Florida but changed his mind in favor of Florida State when Gators coach Urban Meyer decided to take a leave of absence, confirmed that Florida will be his destination at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. He chose Florida over Florida State and Georgia.

 

His older brother, Abram, a starting safety with the Cleveland Browns, first broke the story on his website. The complete story, with quotes from Abe, is at http://www.abeelam.com/latestnews.html.

 

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Urban Meyer Stepping Down

RandolphC Written by RandolphC, Saturday December 26 2009

College football is reeling from the announcement that University of Florida head coach Urban Meyer will step down following the Sugar Bowl against the University of Cincinnati on January first. The reason behind Meyer’s decision as health related, but specifics are unknown.

 

If there are any clues, maybe the best one comes from an article in the December 7th issue of Sports Illustrated. In the article about the highly successful coach, writer S.L. Price reported that Urban Meyer has a cyst on his brain that was discovered back in 1998.

 
Meyer first suffered pain from the cyst when coaching as an assistant at Notre Dame when they were playing against the University of Michigan. Meyer said the pain felt like his skull was being split by an ax. Meyer was just 34 years old.
 
He was warned the attacks would continue to flare up under high stress. He suffered a second attack six years ago as the coach at Utah. It hit during the Utes’ win over 19th-ranked Oregon, 17-13.
 
Meyer released a statement, saying, "I have ignored my health for years, but recent developments have forced me to re-evaluate my priorities of faith and family.
"After consulting with my family, [Florida presidentBernie] Machen, [athletic director] Jeremy Foley and my doctors, I believe it is in my best interest to step aside and focus on my health and family."
 
Meyer was also hospitalized the day after the SEC Championship on December 6th with what Meyer said was chest pains.
 
Randolph Charlotin writes a New England Patriots blog at www.randolphc.com. Send any questions or comments to talktome@randolphc.com.
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UF FOOTBALL SEASON PREVIEW 10'-11' WILL UF SINK OR SWIM???

UFGATORFAN100 Written by UFGATORFAN100, Wednesday December 23 2009

 Considering the impending end of the 09'-10' season it seems only fair to begin to analyze expectations in Gainesville for next year. First, the continued coaching staff changes i.e. Charlie Strong (Louisville), and Billy Gonzalez (LSU) furthermore, the impending decision for a new Defensive Coordinator. Currently Urban Meyer is in the process of deciding if it should be an internal promotion i.e. McCarney, and Bedford as CO-DC or an outward hire.

“I’m working the phones and I’m getting bombarded,” Meyer said. “I want to do right. Four of the five years we’ve finished in the top ten or top 15 in defense here at Florida [with Charlie Strong as the coordinator]. There are a lot of things to consider.”

 

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GATOR BASKETBALL IN 3 GAME LOSING STREAK!!!

UFGATORFAN100 Written by UFGATORFAN100, Wednesday December 23 2009
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Memorable Snow Day For CAA

Chriso Written by Chriso, Saturday December 19 2009

It was a snowy day in the mid-Atlantic region.  

 It was a memorable storm, and while the locals dealt with the storm, some of the local teams of the region played some memorable games.

 

 

Old Dominion Monarchs 61, #11 Georgetown Hoyas 57

 

 

The storm prevented the ODU broadcast team from showing up on time for the game.  The local feed in Norfolk used the Georgetown broadcast.  But the ODU basketball team showed up on time, jumping out to a 6-0 lead and held onto the lead wire to wire.  They led by 12 at the half, and held the Hoyas to 30% shooting.   Meanwhile, the ODU halftime show was held from Union Station, as they continued to try and make it to the game.  They never did, and the Monarchs never gave up the lead.  They increased it to 18 points, but the Hoyas cut the lead to 2.  But the Monarchs handed Georgetown their first loss of the season.

 

 

The game was held at McDonough Arena.  Georgetown usually plays their home games at Verizon Center.  McDonough Arena seats 2500.  Meanwhile, in Texas, the #2 Longhorns beat  UNC 103-90 in Jerry Jones' playground, AKA new Cowboys Stadium.  The Stadium was configured to seat 40,000.

 

 

Richmond Spiders 56, #13 Florida Gators 53

 

 

The Spiders escaped the storm by going to Sunrise, Florida.  While most of their fans in Virginia were not able to see the sunrise because of the falling snow, the Spiders had to take on the 13th ranked Gators.    Despite falling behind by 13 points in the first half, they battled back to complete the upset.  Richmond and ODU made it a memorable snow day as the two CAA teams knocked off ranked opponents on the road on a snowy day.

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An unbiased look at the SEC Championship

Benn Hodapp Written by Benn Hodapp, Friday December 04 2009

There has been a lot of talk about what Florida needs to do to put a harness on the Alabama running game led by Heisman candidate Mark Ingram. As there should be. It will especially interesting to see how Ingram bounces back from a horrible performance against Auburn last week as well as a nagging injury.


But what hasn't really been talked about is the running game of the Gators. To listen to the guys on ESPN you would think that Florida has no running game and that the SEC Championship will be decided by whether or not Florida stops Bama. Not so fast.

Here's a stat for you:

Rush Yards Per Game (national rank)

Florida – 236.7 (6)
Alabama – 212.9 (13)

Florida boasts four rushers with more than 300 yards, which means you can't just zero in on Tim Tebow and Jeffery Demps and expect to stop them completely. Chris Rainey and Emmanuel Moody can do it too.

For Alabama it is Ingram (1,429) and then a huge drop-off to Trent Richardson (560). Richardson is certainly a good player (he has six touchdowns this year) but if Ingram isn't fully-healed it could be a really long day for the Tide.

Neither team throws the ball with great efficiency or effectiveness, but the pass will play a part in the game. Florida is usually good for a trick play or two, so watch for that to be a factor whether it's an end around or a halfback pass. Tebow may not have an NFL arm (in fact he doesn't), but just when you think he's just a runner he uncorks one about 60 yards that often changes a game.

The difference in the game is going to be each team's defense. I wouldn't be surprised to see neither team get into the 20s.

More stats:

Rush Yards Against Per game (national rank)

Florida – 89.9 (8)
Alabama – 78.5 (2)

Unfortunately for Florida, Carlos Dunlap decided to get his drink and drive on, so he is unavailable for the game. His absence will be felt more on the pass rushing side of the game though. His 7.5 sacks have him near the top in the category nationally.

Both teams average better than 30 points per contest (Florida 36.5, Alabama 31.7) but I don't expect either team to approach those numbers. If this game is mutually in the 30s I will eat my hat. Florida and Alabama rank first and third in total defense respectively, so don't be surprised if this game is more pound than it is flash.

Prediction

Florida has been unimpressive at times this year, just squeaking out wins over Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi State and South Carolina. Of all the teams in the BCS discussion I would argue that they have the least impressive resume in terms of opponents. They played only one team that was ranked in the top 25 at the time of their game (13-3 over No. 15 LSU), but they always came out on top. There is something to be said for a team that can play below its abilities and yet still always does enough to win.

Alabama only played two teams that were any good, but they too won the games. They looked pretty beatable against a pretty mediocre Auburn team last week, but those teams hate each other so much that you can pretty much throw out records before it even starts. They had a couple close calls as well (12-10 over Tennessee, 24-15 over LSU, 26-21 over Auburn), but undefeated is undefeated.

I think the difference will be who can cause more turnovers and make the bigger plays. No team has made more big plays the last three years than Florida. I'll take them to win a defensive slugfest with the help of one or two explosive plays at just the right time.

Florida 16
Alabama 13

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SHOWTIME IN ATL!!! GATORS VS. TIDE

UFGATORFAN100 Written by UFGATORFAN100, Thursday December 03 2009

Some say that REVENGE is a dish best served cold. Obviously, this will not be the case in this week's SEC Showdown on Dec. 5th.

 

Both teams are well familiar with each other. This rematch will be intense, and require both teams to execute in an exceptional manner. The pain of losing last year's game is fresh in BAMA's memory, and according to many sources a key in preparing for this new college football season. With a birth in the BCS National Championship Game on the line you can assume that both coaching staffs, and players will be prepared for this game.

 

Both teams' are among the best in Defensive Categories this year. Stengths will be utilized in an effort to mask weaknesses. It's obvious that both teams' have a great Defenses while their Offenses are adequate. Though, Florida possesses an advantage in the QB position some feel that the pressure will be squarley on Tebow's shoulders. McCelroy will be asked to manage the game, execute, and not put his defense in bad situations. A big key in this matchup will be who will be able to impose their will on the other team. Considering Florida has Tebow my $ is on Florida

 

This game will be a Defensive Struggle due to the fact that both BAMA's & Florida strength is their Defense. They both rank among the tops in the country.

 

  1. Total Defense: Florida 1st; Alabama 3rd 
  2. Passing Defense: Florida 1st; Alabama 5th
  3. Rushing Defense: Florida 8th; Alabama 2nd
  4. Scoring Defense: Florida 1st; Alabama 22nd

 

In regards to Offensive categories both Florida and Alabama are able to dominate clock and field position. Though Defense is considered the strength of both teams, their offenses are not lacking in regards of production. An important key to this game is seeing which offense will be able to implement their offense while still limiting their errors, and turnovers.

 

Offensive Categories

 

Total Yards: Florida 451.3 12th; Alabama 407.4 40th

Passing Yards: Florida 225.8 63rd; Alabama 200.3 93rd

Rushing Yards: Florida 236.7 6th; Alabama 212.9 13th

Points Scored: Florida 36.5 9th; Alabama 31.7 30th

 

ASSESMENT: Despite the loss of Carlos Dunlap for the SECCG Florida should be able to win this game. Florida currently has enough depth in order to compensate for this loss i.e. Trattou, Lemmens, Green, and Okine. In addition, Spikes will probably be playing several plays in DE while Stamper would move inside as MLB.

 

Florida 24 Alabama 13

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The Greatest to Ever Play

Jimi1991 Written by Jimi1991, Thursday December 03 2009

With Saturdays game against Alabama, Tim Tebow is looking to once again prove to all doubters that he is the greatest player to ever play this wonderful game we call college football.

 

When the SEC coaches were asked to pick the deciding factor in Saturdays SEC title game they all agreed on one man. Tim Tebow. Love him or hate him, you have to respect him. No one has showed the passion or love for the game quite like Tebow. Anyone who follows college football remembers the speech Tebow gave after the heartbreaking loss to Ole Miss. He promised to be better and he was better. He lead his team on to beat Alabama and then on to beat Oklahoma. There is no doubt in my mind that Tebow will once again lead #1 ranked Florida over Alabama and play for a second straight National Championship game. Tim Tebow has lived in the spotlight for 3 years and is considered one of the best college football players of all time. He is not one of the best. He is the best college football player ever. If you don't believe me pop in a highlight film of this guy and be amazed. In 2007 he became the only player ever to pass and rush for more than 20 TDs in a single season and became the first ever sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy. Other records broken by Tebow are: Most rushing TDs by a QB in a single season(23), Most consecutive games with a passing TD and a Rushing TD(13), SEC record holder for TDS in a season, game and Career, SEC record for pass efficiency(169.37) He has won 2 SEC championship games and 2 BCS National Titles. (He can still add one 1 more to each of those before the seasons over.) Stats are not the only thing that makes a player great. You need leadership, work ethic, intensity and a love for the game. If you look at Tebow he has all this skills and then some. If you need an example of leadership and work ethic just watch every game after the Ole Miss loss. If you need an example of Intensity just watch the 4th quarter of every football he has ever played in. If you need an example of his love for the game, how about giving up the riches of the NFL to comeback for one more year just to prove to everyone he can become the best player he can be, risking possible injury(see Sam Bradford) just to play for the fans and coach who love him. Being from Wisconsin and watching Brett Favre play for 16 wonderful years I never thought I would ever see someone whose love and passion for the game could match Favre's. Tebows does. He has taken on all criticism and has delivered time after time. He has worked endlessly on his passing game and has always delivered on the ground and some scouts still doubt that he can play quarterback in the NFL. The team that drafts Tebow will be the winner of the draft and will have the pleasure of watching hi reach his full potential right before there eyes. Any team that passes on the greates college football player to ever play the game will quickly realize the error of their way, Tebow will play with a chip on his shoulder and play harder than anyone and everyone.
 
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Gators vs. Vandy -By The Numbers

Trader Rick Written by Trader Rick, Thursday November 12 2009

Gator Nation is  disappointed in the Gators' somewhat lackluster performance Saturday against the Commodores, at home in the Swamp, the worst team in the Conference. Fans expected a blow-0ut in the Swamp and didn't get it.

 

 

But were the Gators so bad against Vandy?

 

Let's compare how the Gators  performed against this team in comparison to what the other five SEC teams did against them so far this year.

 

Let's look at the stats that count: The Scoreboard. The Gatorswere second only to Georgia in Points scored  (24) against Vandy. They were tied for first with MSU  in points allowed (3). They were tied for first with Georgia in Margin of Victory (24). So, there's that. Ah, but yes, you say, those other teams aren'ranked Number One...

 

Anyway so that's not all that bad is it? How they got there is not quite so good, however. Here is where the Gators stand with their five brothers vs. Vanderbilt in selected stats:

 

First Downs made: 6th

Firt Downs allowed: T-2nd

Rush yards: 5th

Rush yards allowed: 2nd

Pass  yards: 2nd

Pass yards allowed: 3rd

 

Total yards: 4th

total yards allowed 2nd

Total yards margin: 2nd

 

So what do we know? A win is a win, even tho not so pretty. UF remains on Upset Alert against USCe and FSU.  Stay tuned.

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By The Numbers--Gators vs. the SEC

Trader Rick Written by Trader Rick, Thursday November 12 2009

UF Sports Information has released the following stats:

In games vs. SEC opponents, Florida has:

• 1,506 net rushing yards (1st in SEC)
• 2,661 total net yards (1st)
• 21 touchdowns (tied for 1st with Georgia)
• 11 rushing touchdowns (tied for 1st with Auburn)
• 146 first downs (1st)
• 85 rushing first downs (1st)
• 144.5 passer rating (1st)
• 66.7 completion percent (1st)
• 32:56 time of possession (1st)
• 28.1 points per game (2nd — Georgia, 29.3)
• 4.8 yards per carry (tied for 2nd with Alabama — Auburn, 5.0)
• 380.1 ypg (3rd — Auburn, 388.7; Ark., 382.5)

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USCe vs. Gators --By The Numbers

Trader Rick Written by Trader Rick, Wednesday November 11 2009

Gators Remain on Upset Alert this week...

Let's take a look at how the
Gators measure up to the Cocks in terms of performance against Common opponents in the SEC, in the Stat that matters, points:

 

Vols:            UF  +10    SC  -18

Cats            UF +34      SC +2

Hogs           UF +3         SC -17

Dawgs       UF +24        SC -4

Commies  UF +24        SC +4

What this equates to is that the Gators are an average of  24 points better than the Cocks against SEC teams...

 

Can the Offense rise to the occasion? I think SOS might like to end the Gators run...

 

 

 

 

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Florida Uber-Recruit Is "85%" Committed

Flash Greyhound Written by Flash Greyhound, Tuesday November 10 2009

 

Matt Elam from Dwyer High in Palm Beach Gardens posts a blog for www.playerpress.com

 

Matt Elam, 5-star recruit and ranked among the top 5 in the nation, says he's still committed to Florida "about 85%" after giving his verbal to Urban Meyer a year ago.

Matt's big brother is Cleveland Browns safety Abram Elam, and Matt wrote the blog for Abe's website.

 

GATOR FANS CHECK IT OUT HERE.

 

U.Florida recruit Matt Elam

 

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AP Top 25 Week 7 Review

Chriso Written by Chriso, Sunday October 18 2009

 Week 6 featured losses in the top 10, but the top 3 continue to win.  However, it appears that changes are coming at the top of the poll, as Alabama's convincing win moves them into the top spot, while Florida falls into 2nd after winning only by a field goal.

 

 

#1 Florida 23, Arkansas 20

 

 

The top ranked Gators needed a field goal with 9 seconds remaining to secure the victory, but it was not enough to hold onto the top spot.  With only 20 first place votes, Florida at 6-0 moves down one spot in the polls.  Next week they travel to Mississippi State.

 

 

# 2 Alabama 20, South Carolina 6

 

 

The Crimson Tide completed a steady climb in the polls, after passing Texas, they now move into the top spot in the AP Poll with 39 first place votes.  Next week they host Tennessee.

 

 

#3 Texas 16, #20 Oklahoma 13

 

Texas also won with a fourth quarter field goal over the Sooners in the Red River Rivalry.  Sam Bradford was knocked out of the game, and Oklahoma was knocked down to 25, the only team with three losses in the top 25.    Next week, the Longhorns travel to Missouri while Oklahoma goes to #24 Kansas.

 

 

#19 Georgia Tech 28, # 4 Virginia Tech 23

 

 

In Virginia, there was talk on the Sports Radio about ways Virginia Tech could keep winning and head into the National Championship.  After getting a scare from Duke and completely taking care of Boston College, those Championship plans were derailed by Georgia Tech.  The Yellow Jackets leap past the Hokies in the standings to 11th, and next they go to Virginia to play the Cavaliers.  Virginia Tech is now 15th, and has a week before hosting North Carolina on the 29th.

 

 

#5 Boise State 28, Tulsa 21

 

 

The Broncos remain undefeated at 6-0, but move down one spot to 6th in the standings.  Rodney Dangerfield would probably have some comments about not getting respect.  On the brightside, they go to Hawaii to play the Warriors.  It makes me long for the days when Hawaii was the Rainbows.

 

 

# 6 USC 34,  #25 Notre Dame 27

 

 

The Trojans move up to 4 after beating the Irish in South Bend.  They host Oregon State next week while Notre Dame hosts Boston College in the Catholic Bowl.

 

 

Purdue 26, # 7 Ohio State 18

 

 

The Boilermakers scored early and often in their upset of the Buckeyes.  Ohio State falls to 18th and hosts Minnesota next week.

 

 

#8 Cincinnati 34, #21 South Florida 17

 

 

Cincinnati remains undefeated at 6-0, and moves into the top 5.  Next week they host Louisville.

 

 

# 9 Miami (Fl) 27 UCF 7

 

 

The yo-yo up and down the standings continues for the Hurricanes.  Currently, they are on their way back up.  Next week, they host Clemson.

 

 

#10 LSU had a bye, they move up a spot to #9 and host Auburn next.

 

 

#11 Iowa 20, Wisconsin 10

#12 TCU 44, Colorado St 6

#14 Penn St 20, Minnesota 0

Texas Tech 31, #15 Nebraska 10

#16 Oklahoma St 33, Missouri 17

Colorado 34, #17 Kansas 30

#18 BYU 38, San Diego St 28

#23 Houston 44, Tulane 16

#24 Utah 35, UNLV 15

 

 

 

 

 

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Tim Tebow: Will he or won’t he?

Bamababe2k9 Written by Bamababe2k9, Tuesday October 06 2009

Day 10 of the Tim Tebow watch. As of today, Tim Tebow practiced with the Florida Gators, but is yet to be cleared to play this week against number four LSU Saturday.

 

 

Somewhere, Gator head coach Urban Meyer is probably biting his nails anxiously waiting to hear if he can play Saturday because Meyer knows without Tebow, more then likely Florida will lose this weekend and maybe that’s the lesson that needs to be taught from this.
 
 
Meyer was up 31-7 against Kentucky a few weeks ago on the goal line again about to score when Tebow was hurt. Now, more then likely by some miracle our hero will be back on the field just in time to play Saturday night in Baton Rouge. But Tebow shouldn’t have to be dealing with the effects of a concussion if it weren’t for his head coach trying to show the Wildcats and I guess the rest of the country why they are the number one team in the country.
 
 
See, there are rumblings that Florida might not be the best team in the country especially after their performance against a hapless Tennessee team whose offense looks like it is run by bunch of eighth graders.
 
 
Florida was expected to win by 50 against the Vols; they only won by 10. So, in an effort to prove a point, Meyer leaves his best player out there who was already sick from the flu, to play another series. Florida had the game in hand, Kentucky was NOT about to make a miraculous comeback and Tebow was sick. Hell, he didn’t even take the flight with the team because of his illness.
 
 
Now, Meyer and the Gator nation have to sit with baited breath to wait and see if the kid will be cleared to play. By all indications today, he seems to be fine, but I give the Gator’s doctors credit for taking it easy on Tebow and not letting themselves be rushed into a quick decision by the player, head coach or the fans.
 
 
Concussions are no joke and according to a recent NFL study, they do have lasting effects on player’s life to a degree that some will get the early effects of dementia. Gator nation will defend Meyer’s decision to leave Tebow in there even though the game was no longer in doubt, but it looks like Florida would have been better served now playing their back up quarterback John Brantley more in the Kentucky game. Brantley should have been in there to begin the second half.
 
 
Now, Brantley might have to go into this game in Baton Rouge none the less to play on national television trying to save his team's season all because of their coaches’ ego. Meyer let his ego get the best of him, instead of doing what was best for his player and team.
 
 
If Tim Tebow isn’t cleared to play by Saturday, the Gators chances of winning another national championship will be at best in jeopardy and Urban Meyer and the Gator nation can thank his ego for that.
 
 
 
 
 
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AP Top 25 Week 5 Review

Chriso Written by Chriso, Sunday October 04 2009

 For the first time this season, there were no losses in the top 5.   

 However, the top two seeds did not play.  And there was a change at the top, as #6 Virginia Tech moved into the top 5, and Boise State fell one spot even though they improved to 5-0.

 

 

The top ranked Gators remain number 1 with 54 first place votes, just 1 vote fewer than last week.  But they face a tough challenge coming out of their bye week as they travel to play LSU in a battle of unbeaten SEC teams that are both in the top 5.  Next week, like every other week this season except this one, there will be a loss in the top 5. Daniel Turner writes this spotlight on Florida's Tim Tebow.

 

 

The second ranked Longhorns were also idle this weekend, and have a kinder schedule than Florida has after the break.  While Florida goes on the road to face a top ranked team, Texas will stay at home and host Colorado.

 

 

#3 Alabama 38, Kentucky 20

 

 

For the second week in a row, Kentucky hosted a top five school, and both weeks they proved to be gracious hosts.  After losing to the Gators in Week 4,  the Crimson Tide came in and rolled through a sloppy Wildcat effort.  Running Back Mark Ingram scored a touchdown in the opening minute on his way to a career day.  He finished with 140 yards and 2 TDs.

 

 

#4 LSU 20, # 18 Georgia 13

 

 

A late TD allowed LSU to beat out host Georgia in an SEC match up of Top 25 teams.  LSU led 6-0 at the half, and Georgia did not score in the third in this defensive struggle.   But the teams combined for 27 fourth quarter points.  Charles Scott scored in the final minute to give LSU their first win in Athens in 22 years.  LSU, as stated, takes on the #1 Gators next week.  Georgia is out of the Top 25 and travels to Tennessee. 

 

 

#5 Boise State 34, UC Davis 16

 

 

The Broncos remained unbeaten, but it was considered an ugly win at home over UC Davis.  They led the whole way, but the sloppy play in general may have resulted in the Hokies passing the Broncos in the AP poll.   QB Kellen Moore had 3 TDs and 285 yards.  The Broncos next game is Wednesday 10/14 at Tulsa.

 

 

#6 Virginia Tech 34, Duke 26

 

 

Virginia Tech survived an upset attempt by the Blue Devils.  There is a complete wrap-up available in this Playerpress Article.  The Hokies with the win vault into the Top 5.  They host the BC Eagles in another ACC matchup next week.

 

 

#7 USC 30, #24 California 3

 

 

Southern California's defense dominated California, allowing only a fourth quarter field goal in this match up of Top 25 teams in the Pac 10.  Head Coach Pete Carroll has always been an excellent defensive coach which has contributed to him being the winningest active coach.  USC has a bye next week before going to Notre Dame.  California also has a week off.  They fall out of the Top 25 and return on the 17th against UCLA.

 

 

#17 Miami (Fl) 21, # 8 Oklahoma 20

 

 

The injured Sooners were the highest ranked seed to lose this weekend.  Now 2-2, they fall to 19th in the Top 25, but are the only team in the Top 25 with two losses.  Meanwhile, the Hurricanes continue to go up and down the poll like a yo-yo.  In recent weeks they have gone from 20 to 9 to 17 and next week will be 11th.  Godfrey Logan wrote this article about drinking the Miami Kool Aid.

 

 

#9 Ohio State 33, Indiana 14

 

 

The Buckeyes beat the Hoosiers in this Big 10 matchup.  Next week, Ohio State hosts the undefeated unranked Wisconsin Badgers in another Big 10 game.  Wisconsin received more votes than any other unranked team.   Ohio State remains at number 9.

 

 

#10) Cincinnati 37, Miami (Oh) 13

 

 

Representing the Big East, the Bearcats beat winless Miami (Oh) .  They leapfrog over Ohio State into 8th place in the standings.  They are off next weekend, but pay #23 South Florida on Thursday 10/15 in a match up of 5-0 teams on ESPN.

 

 

#11 TCU 39, S Methodist 14

UTEP 58, #12 Houston 41

#13 Iowa 24, Arkansas St 21

#15 Penn State 35, Illinois 17

B-Dub's tribute to Joe Pa.

#16 Oregon 52, Washington St 6

#20 BYU 35, Utah St 17

#21 Mississippi 23, Vanderbilt 7

Michigan State 26, #22 Michigan 20

#25 Georgia Tech 42, Miss St 31

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It’s Great to be a Gator

Daniel Turner Written by Daniel Turner, Monday September 28 2009

Tim Tebow made that statement after being carted off the field Saturday night when a concussion forced him to exit Florida’s 41-7 pounding of Kentucky. First he asked Urban Meyer if he held onto the ball after being sacked by Taylor Wyndham. Falling backward Tebow struck his head on the leg of team mate Marcus Gilbert causing whiplash and the resulting concussion. Once his coach verified he had held onto the ball, Tebow exclaimed his joy at being a member of the University of Florida football team and then hurled before being taken to the hospital for overnight observation.

 

Normally, Tebow, a QB in a FB’s body leaps to his feet following a hard hit as a way of proving that it didn’t hurt and he is ready to resume play. This time Tebow couldn’t shake it off. He wobbled to his feet and as the planet rushed up to meet him he lost his pregame meal. The Man of Steel was laid low by the little piece of kryptonite that he was exposed to in the tackle and his subsequent fall onto Gilbert’s leg.

 

Lane Kiffin says many things; most of them instantly regrettable. However, in his postgame press conference after Florida got their third win of the season over his Tennessee Volunteers he labeled Tebow Superman. From a mouth that has uttered phrases best forgotten he hit the nail on the head with that nickname. Tebow is Superman and like the invincible Kryptonian he appears to be unstoppable.

 

Containing the comic book Superman has become so difficult that most writers flee the series for more creative pastures. In fact, the only time he has been neutralized is in two stories which chronicle his death, one in an imaginary tale and the other is when Allan Moore set the storyline into the future. If you can’t beat him, then killing him is the only way to level the playing field.

 

No one has such dramatic ends in sight for Tebow, but LSU could enjoy the advantage that Kiffin mentioned the next time Tennessee faces Florida; the Gators will not have Superman behind center. Tebow has an off week to rest his aching head and hope that everything around him stops spinning. But, if the Everglades still appear to be moving more to Tebow than they actually are he will undoubtedly miss the LSU game. After all, this Superman isn’t an alien from Krypton. He is a flesh and blood human being that holds importance to the Gators far beyond one game.

 

In a game where the expectations placed on the QB are often unreasonable Tebow has defied expectations and risen above what has been expected. At 245 pounds Tebow is a powerhouse that can beat you in the air and on the ground. The Heisman Trophy winner is one touchdown away from tying the SEC record for carrying the ball into the end zone. The record is held by Herschel Walker and he had a pretty impressive career in two pro leagues. And, Bo knows the SEC has had some pretty good running backs.

 

Going beyond expectations has become common place for Tim Tebow. Born in Manila to Christian missionary parents Tebow is both a warrior and a Christian Soldier. He has continued in his parent’s path by performing missionary work abroad. In between preparing for the challenging SEC season Tebow has performed missionary work in Thailand, Croatia and the Philippines. Instead of sharpening his image for his eventual pro career Tebow continues to do the work he came to learn through his mother and father. Still, it appears that more people are interested in his relationship with girlfriend Lucy Pinder than with God.

 

Tebow is squeaky clean and that disturbs many. Opponents try to knock him off his game with trash talk and fans like to speculate that he won’t be able to cut it in the pros. For the most part he ignores the comments. Yes, he did get flagged for dropping a Gator chop on the reeling Sooners defense in last year’s championship game, but that was after the game was in no doubt status. He is too level headed to do something stupid that would hurt his team.

 

That’s why his supporters are as ardent as his detractors. He is a consummate leader that inspires team mates and garners the appreciation of the Gator faithful. His pledge following a loss to Ole Miss is You Tube fodder, but it shows his determination to succeed and to do well for the team.

 

Having been home schooled Tebow has proved that social skills are not at risk by not being in a classroom situation and having to interact with other children. However, his transition was also eased by playing high school football. The state of Florida has a law that home schooled students can participate in team sports for schools in their residential area. Tebow began his career at Trinity Christian Academy playing linebacker and tight end. Wanting to be a quarterback and needing a more pass oriented offensive scheme he and his mother took an apartment away from the rest of the family so he could play for Nease High School in St. John’s County. While the move created some controversy Tebow performed an end around the law by moving from Duval to St. John’s County allowing him to enroll in a different school.

 

Regardless of where and how he played high school football there is no denying that Tebow has become a leader. If the speak before thinking Kiffin can realize his importance there is no question it is immeasurable to the Gators. Like Kiffin, they too realize they will soon have to enter life without Tebow. Obviously they are hoping it occurs after graduation and not in his senior season because of an unfortunate bump on the head.

 

Superman has been the symbol of all that is right for the Gators and they would prefer to have to adapt to his absence latter. As for Tebow, it’s great to be a Gator and it is a sure bet he will do his utmost to play on. 

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Tim Tebow Pro or No?

Davitude Written by Davitude, Thursday September 17 2009

Why NFL teams can't over look Tebow

 

Tim Tebow is as elite as it gets when it comes to talking college football. Even if you dont watch the games you know who this guy is.  No one works harder or cares more about the win than Tebow. 

 

For months now I've heard why this guy wont make it as a signal caller in the NFL.  I don't see this at all.. Tim Tebow is the hardest worker that you can hope to draft.  Charactor is a growing issue in this league so why not draft a guy who you know will keep his nose clean and always keep his eye on the prize? 

 

Granted it may take the kid a little bit longer to get aclimated to the NFL style offense but there is no doubt in my mind he wont quit untill he is one of the best.  You have teams in The NFL that lack leadership and charactor  imagine changing that with one pick in one draft. 

 

I realize that many fans believe Tebow's firey personality may rub some veterans the wrong way but once they realize he wants to win by any means necessary teamates will have no choice but to respect him.  All we can do is speculate so for now, all we can say is only time will tell.

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