Bye Bye Mr Pinkston

The Eagles' active preseason continues. WR Todd Pinkston and backup QB Koy Detmer were given walking papers today. I don't think team management feels that Pinkston's achilles injury ever fully healed. Combine that with the addition of Donte Stallworth and the emergence of Hank Baskett, and Pink never had a chance.

Pinkston, who played his college ball at Southern Miss, had the rep of being a fragile player. At about 170 pounds, he had speed down the sidelines, but was never really a facter over the middle, which kind of skews his impressive yards per catch statistic. He was a good second receiver when TO was in Philly, but struggled as a No. 1 guy during the infamous James Thrash era.

Stallworth (Univ of Tennessee) has his good games and his bad. As an avid fantasy footballer, I constantly drafted him in the late rounds. As a part of my team, he would have a 4 catch, 83 yd game one Sunday, and a 1 catch, 17 yard game the next. I didn't draft him last year, and it turned out to be a career year for him (70+ catches, 900+ yards)...wonder if he'll produce like that here. He's rumored to be the No. 1 guy, with Reggie Brown on the other side. He's never been a No. 1 with Joe Horn in New Orleans, so the jury is out whether or not he has the type of game to make defensive secondaries sweat. The battle for the third WR is pretty solid, as both Greg Lewis and Baskett have performed well in the preseason.

I still think the Eagles are a 9-7 team. The NFC East will be brutal this year.

3 days till PSU kicks off vs Akron...cannot wait.

Part II of the Season Preview

Forgive me for not getting to this sooner, but we had a rather life-changing event happen late last week (see the below post!).

Anyway, to the second half of the season....ah, forget it. I think the Lions go 9-3 with road losses to ND, OSU, and Wisconsin. They'll go to the Capital One Bowl, schwack an SEC foe, and be ranked in the top 10 of every preseason poll next summer.

How's that for in-depth. 6 days and counting...

Mackenzie Jordan

On Thurs, 24 Aug at 1856, Laura, Peyton and I welcomed Mackenzie Jordan Hunt into the world. She weighed in at 6 lbs, 3 oz and 19 inches. Mom and the baby came home today. Here is a picture:


More news about PSU's season sometime tomorrow...

New Family Guy Season starts 10 September

"What the Deuce??" 17 days until the new Family Guy season. Check out this site for Family Guy quotes.

Giggity, giggity....giggity goo....

Penn State Preview Part III

Before we get to the special teams and season outlook, just wanted to let folks know that we're still on baby watch. The due date is in a couple of days, and I know that Laura is done being pregnant. I'm looking forward to the new arrival...and it may just coincide with the Nittany Lions opener vs Akron. Won't that be a dilemma??

Now, back to the preview...that only I will probably read...so, I could really type that Brett Conway is going to have a breakout year, and Massimo Manca is making big strides in preseason practice...anyway...

Special Teams: This should be a strength for the 2006 Lions. There is no way that PK Kevin Kelly faces any more pressure than he did during the Orange Bowl. Be nice to see if he gained any leg strength, since I think the Nits will face some long-range field goals early in the season as the offense tries to click. His kickoffs are sufficiently deep, so no worry there. P Jeremy Kapinos returns, and is one of the best punters in the conference. He has really refined his approach, and should be a pretty good weapon.

As for the return game, looks like Derrick Williams, Lydell Sargent, and Austin Scott could see lots of time fielding punts/kicks. Kinlaw should factor into this as well, since he did an admirable job filling in for DWill after the Michigan game. Waiting for this unit to produce a return for TD...maybe this is the year.

Season Outlook:
As I mentioned a couple of days ago, lots of media types see a drop off from last year's 11-1 success. I agree. Let's go game by game to see how I think this will shake out...

2 Sept vs Akron (H): Akron is picked by many experts to be a factor in the MAC. They return their starting QB, and employ a different 3-3-5 defense. This game could bite the Lions if they're looking ahead to Notre Dame. Talent-wise, this game shouldn't be too close. But, if the O-line struggles and Morelli looks like a first time starter, then a repeat of last year's USF game (23-13) is not all that unlikely. Still, Nits should win, 30-14.

9 Sept vs ND (A): Talk about a tough early test. The Lions go up against a team many have as a national championship contender. Brady Quinn and a host of returning starters will test the young Lions' defense, and Morelli and co will get the first taste of a truly hostile environment. I'd love to call an upset here, but I think that ND is probably too much for the Lions to handle this early. The defense will be on the field too long, and will give up crucial points late. Nits fall 24-20.

16 Sept vs Youngstown St (H): Depending on the result of the ND game, this could either be a major letdown week, or a chance for the Lions to get rid of some frustration. The Penguins (Jim Tressel's former team) are a respectable D-1AA team, but shouldn't be within 7 touchdowns of the Lions. Remember, this game came about since the original opponent (I think it was La Tech) pulled out. Nits romp, 56-10.

23 Sept vs Ohio State (A): This game could be another classic. Last year's contest was one of the hardest hitting games I've ever seen. Two things work against the Lions in this game. First, it's the second brutal road test against a preseason top 5 team. Second, the Lions haven't won at the Horseshoe since 1047. Depending on the progression of the young offensive line and inexperienced defensive line, this game could go either way. The key to last year was the front four put pressure on Troy Smith all game, and Ted Ginn didn't seem to want to get hit. Well, Ginn found his game later in the year, and Troy Smith was playing as good as any QB in the country by season's end. Again, I'd like to call the upset, but I think the Bucks win this one, 20-10.

30 Sept vs Northwestern (H) This is where the magic started last year. 4th and 15 with less than 2 minutes remaining, and the Lions pull out the win. The Wildcats have to replace Brett Basenez and LB Tim McGarigle, but more than that, they have to replace their head coach, Randy Walker who died of a heart attack earlier this year. But, this team is not to be taken lightly. Tyrell Sutton, the freshman phenom from last year returns, and should find his yards every week. I think the Lions start a new winning streak this week, but it will be a close game, 30-21.

7 Oct vs Minnesota (A) 44-14. That score last year cemented PSU as a team to be taken seriously last year. The Lions D held Laurence Maroney to under 50 yards, and physically beat up the Gophers. The Gophers still have Bryan Cupito at QB, but will be starting Amir Pinnix at RB. Although he averaged more than 6 yards per carry last year, he didn't play the whole year. I think the Nits get a great road win here, 34-17.

The next half of the season tomorrow....

For the Glory....

Penn State Preview, Part II

The hallmark of any good Penn State team is a smart, tough, aggressive defense. During the 4-7 2004 season, the defense ranked in the top 15 in most statistical categories, and didn't allow more than 21 points in any game. A momentous 4th quarter goal line stand prevented a road loss to Indiana, and some say sparked the Lions to a great 2005 season.

The 2005 defense was a senior-laden group. Led up front by Tamba Hali (now with the KC Chiefs--and officially a US citizen--way to go!!), Matt Rice and Scott Paxon, the defense constantly pressured opposing QBs without blitzing, allowing the linebackers to be aggressive. Oh, and the linebackers were pretty decent, too. More on them later. Gone is the entire starting secondary, with three of the four now playing in the NFL.

Defense:

Defensive Line: Senior Jay Alford returns at one DT spot. Alford notched 8.5 sacks last year, as many opponents double teamed Hali and Rice. Not sure if Alford can duplicate the success he had last year unless the DEs progress. At the other DT spot, Ed Johnson returns from academic problems, and should be the day 1 starter. On the ends, Jim Shaw figures to be an important piece of the puzzle. If these guys can keep the opposing O-line off the linebackers, the D could be scary good again. If not, look for the leading tackler to be a safety...which is never good.

Linebackers: Simply, the best in the nation. I am tired of everyone saying that even though Paul Posluszny won the hardware last year that AJ Hawk was a better linebacker. Hmmm...I thought the awards were given to the best linebacker. Wow, someone made a mistake. No way. Poz was the best in the nation last year, hands down. He even outplayed Hawk in the matchup between the two teams last October. If his knee is 100%--as he and everyone claims--Poz leads the best trio in the country. Dan Connor is a monster on the other outside spot, and Tim Shaw doesn't get the recognition, but is an outstanding MLB. All three should be All-Americans at the end of the year.

Secondary: It's not unreasonable to expect a drop here, as the entire starting secondary from last year had to be replaced. But, it's not like they went searching the streets of Bellefonte for fill ins. This unit has everything...speed, hands, smarts...the only thing they lack? Experience. Justin King returns to the side of the ball for which he was recruited, and must develop into a shut down corner. Tony Davis takes the other side, and Donnie Johnson and Nolan McCready take the safety spots. Like the O-line, if these guys come together quick, the D could be really scary.

Special teams and a season outlook tomorrow...

For the Glory...

Penn State 2006 Preview

Just about 2 weeks from the beginning of the 2006 college football season, and every single sports media outlet has a preview of what to expect. Now, I know the only people that read this blog are me, and well, me...nevertheless, I thought I would offer my thoughts on the upcoming season, focusing primarily on the Nittany Lions.

So much has been made of the fact that the Nits haven't strung together winning seasons since 1998-99, and have followed their only winning season in the 21st century (2002, 9-4) with 2 of the most miserable seasons imagineable. Folks wonder, and maybe rightly so, if the 2006 squad will break the trend and have a successful campaign. Most prognosticators seem to think a drop off from the 11-1 season is inevitable (it is), but also think the drop won't be too severe (it won't). Let's kick off the preview. Oh, and if you want some good inside info, FightonState.com has it (w/a subscription). Fox Sports has a decent one, too.

Offense:

Undoubtedly, the offense was a pleasant surprise last season. In 2004, the lack of a decent receiving corps meant a constant 8 man in the box front that stacked up against an offensive line that wasn't very good. In the 6-4 loss to Iowa, Coach Kirk Ferentz decided he'd rather take a safety and kick to the Penn State offense than risk having the Lions' D score--which it was capable of doing.

2005 saw an infusion of speed, energy, and after the Northwestern game, confidence. All of a sudden, the Lions had speed on the edge that stretched defenses. A former walk-on DB led the team in receptions and touchdowns, and an undersized freshmen became a dependable over-the-middle target for Michael Robinson. Combine that with a 1,000 yard rusher and a solid front 5, and you have the makings of a potent attack.

The 2006 version of the Lions' offense will look a little different without the Big Ten's Offensive Player of the Year. But, they have the potential to be something special. A closer look:

Quarterback: Anthony Morelli finally gets a chance to start. A rocket arm, quick release, and 2 years tutilege in Galen Hall's system are all big time positives. He doesn't bring the same running threat that MRob did, but according to most of the team, he can run when needed. If he gets off to a good early start vs Akron, look for him to have a strong campaign. He better, since he has to face Notre Dame and Ohio State in the first month of the season. Backups are Paul Ciancolo, Kevin Suhey, and Daryll Clark.

Running Back: Tony Hunt returns for his senior season. A 1,000 yard rusher last year, Hunt hurt his ankle in the Orange Bowl on the first series. If the offensive line can perform well, Hunt should better last year's totals, as he should get more touches per game. Austin Scott is the backup if he doesn't redshirt (he's hurt as of right now). If he does redshirt, Rodney Kinlaw or newcomer Evan Royster may have a shot at the top reserve. Key to Morelli's success is a capable running game. Oh, and I still like a headline from last year: "Hunt to start at tailback for Penn State". A guy can dream, right?

Tight End: It seems that Penn State tight ends are all cut from the same cloth. Except for Kyle Brady and Matt Kranchik, PSU tight ends seem to be bone-crushing blockers who catch an occasional pass. Look for more of the same this year, as Patrick Hall steps into the starting role. He had 2 catches last year, both for touchdowns. At 250+ pounds, he is a decent blocker. Backups include Jordan Lyons and a host of others.

Wide Receivers: This could be one of the best units in the Big Ten. Derrick Williams is back from his season ending injury vs Michigan, and Deion Butler and Jordan Norwood all return. Additionally, reports say that true freshman Chris Bell and redshirt freshman James McDonald are really turning heads in practice. Might the Nits employ a 5-WR set this year???? This unit has speed, good route-runners, and confidence to make the big catch in the clutch.

Offensive Line: This is the big enigma. If the unit comes together, plays well, and gets better every week, then Penn State could be scary good on the offensive side of the ball. If they play like the lines of the 2003 and 2004 season, Anthony Morelli will get a good look at the late autumn skies as he's peeled from the staduim turf. Levi Brown anchors the line...and I mean anchor. At 324 pounds, Brown has the responsibility to keep Morelli's blind side clear. A preseason All-Big Ten selection, Brown must lead a unit that has a combined 35 starts between them....with Brown accounting for 34.

Will look at the Defense tomorrow.

For the Glory...

Big Ten Media Day

I guess I can officially start getting excited about the 2006 football season now that the Big Ten has had its media day.

Some notable notes from the event:

• Paul Posluszny was awarded the Big Ten Pre-season Defensive Player of the Year
• Troy Smith (QB, tOSU) was named Offensive Player of the Year
• Ohio State was picked as the media favorite to win the conference, followed by Michigan and Iowa

Penn State also released its 2007 schedule, and all I can say is that someone must have looked at Kansas State's non-conference schedule over the years. I mean, come ON! Buffalo? Temple? Florida frickin' International??? Why would the athletic department DO this? Do they not understand that this kills the strength of schedule way more than losing Indiana and gaining Iowa helps it?? If I were JoePa, I'd be livid. To me this is purely a revenue decision. 3 cupcake home games means at least 90K fans in the seats, plus more in town spending their money. Is it too much to ask we have a couple good home and homes like ND? Even BC, Nebraska or one of the opponents from the independent days (USC, Miami) would be a welcome test. To be the best you have to beat the best, or something like that.

You know what would remedy this? A PLAYOFF SYSTEM. Teams wouldn't be out of the national picture, even with two losses. Teams now can't afford to play more than one good non-conference opponent for fear that their season would be ransacked before conference play even started. Because of this, I think fans are cheated. I would much rather watch the Nits play (and possibly lose) to USC, then to beat Buffalo 309-10 (official prediction, write it down). I loved watching the OSU-Texas game last year; it was a game that all college football fans had to appreciate. But, it meant that one team would be 0-1 after one game, guaranteed. Daunting proposition in a sport where if you lose, you better lose early...and then win out.

Oklahoma booted Rhett Bomar from the team today. Seems Rhett had a job at a local athletic department-friendly car dealership. He worked about 5 hours a week, and somehow made $18K a year. I know a lot of experts had OU in the preseason top 5. Guess this shuffles things a bit...

Ryan Howard continues to play outstanding ball. Last night, he hit is NL-leading 36th home run to give the Phils a 4-3 lead (and eventual 5-3 win) over the Cardinals. Looks like management made a rare good call by clearing way for Howard by trading Thome.

Speaking of management's good calls, can anyone tell me the name of any one of the players they got in the Abreu/Lidle trade? Mind-boggling.

It reached 100 degrees here today. Went running at 0730, and it was already 85.

Not much else going on...more after summer practice starts.

For the Glory...