NCAA 2004 Dynasty: Georgia Tech (2004 Season)

[Celeval]

This is a continuation of my NCAA 2004 Georgia Tech dynasty.

2003 Season
2004 Recruiting

Our record thus far:
2003: 8-5 (5-3) - Lost to WVU in the Continental Tire Bowl

[Celeval]

2004 Schedule

1. at Navy
   
2. vs. UConn
   
3. 
   
4. vs. Florida State
   
5. at Clemson
   
6. 
   
7. at #5 NC State
   
8. vs. Wake Forest
   
9. vs. #18 LSU
   
10. at #9 Maryland
    
11. 
    
12. vs. Duke
    
13. at North Carolina
    
14. vs. Virginia
    
15. at #11 Georgia
    

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Quarterbacks - Grade B

#8 Damarius Bilbo, Jr-RS
6'3", 225 lbs
168-332 passing for 2622 yards, 11 TD, 24 Int
94-(-62) rushing for 1 TD
OV SP ST AW AG AC CR BT TP TA
88 71 57 75 73 70 57 55 87 82
Bilbo was our starting quarterback for the majority of last season. He had a number of games with good yardage amounts, but had a lot of trouble with interceptions. He didn't throw a lot of touchdowns, but that was due mostly to the lack of a large target (tight-end type) in the red zone; we went heavily with Tony Hollings in short yardage situations. He got a nice 13 point boost in Awareness in the offseason, and looks to be our starter coming into this season.

#19 M.J. Burnett, Fr
6'0", 211 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CR BT TP TA
82 84 49 52 86 74 55 50 88 80
Burnett is our prize recruit; the #1 High School quarterback in the country last season. Had he been with us last year at this time, he would have been the starter; but after Damarius Bilbo's offseason dedication and improvement, he will redshirt to begin the year. He is comparable across the board to Bilbo right now, and would edge him for the starting role if not for the low Awareness - Burnett needs a year to learn the game, but should challenge for the starting spot next season (Bilbo's senior year).

#12 LaShaun Haston, Fr
6'1", 191 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CR BT TP TA
73 40 48 57 41 44 44 41 83 86
Another solid recruit from the 2004 offseason, Haston is a pure drop-back passer with very little mobility. What he does have is a very good arm, and is probably the most accurate of our three quarterbacks. He will serve as the backup to Damarius Bilbo, and will most likely see a good bit of playing time this season.

(OVerall, SPeed, STrength, AWareness, AGility, ACceleration, CaTch, CArry, JuMp, Break Tackle, TacKle, Throw Power, Throw Accuracy, Pass Block, Run Block, Kick Power, Kick Accuracy, StAnima, INjury)

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Running Backs - Grade C+

#28 Ajenavi Eziemefe, So-RS
6'2", 227 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA BT SA
81 83 64 52 80 84 61 71 72 81
Ajenavi Eziemefe (or Ace) redshirted last season with an eye towards being the starter this year. With Tony Hollings gone, he inherits that role. The fastest running back on the roster, that's not saying too much; he'll share some time with the others on the field.

#45 P.J. Daniels, Jr-RS
5'10", 205 lbs
38-145 Rushing for 1 TD
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA BT SA
77 76 60 63 76 76 60 69 70 85
P.J. Daniels backed up Tony Hollings during the 2003 season, and will serve in the same role to Ace this year. Not someone who we want to get a ton of carries, he'll handle a solid enough workload if Ace goes down with an injury or needs a breather.

#26 Mike Hanson, Fr
5'10", 214 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA BT SA
69 77 61 44 73 74 55 65 61 70
A true freshman this season, Hanson won't see the field unless there are serious injuries. We'll start him off with a redshirt (and FB Jimmy Dixon working as the third running back), but will bring him off if (and only if) injuries warrant. He needs a good bit more seasoning if he's going to put in any kind of time during his career here.

(OVerall, SPeed, STrength, AWareness, AGility, ACceleration, CaTch, CArry, JuMp, Break Tackle, TacKle, Throw Power, Throw Accuracy, Pass Block, Run Block, Kick Power, Kick Accuracy, StAnima, INjury)

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Fullbacks - Grade C-

#32 Johnathan Jackson, Sr-RS
6'2", 228 lbs
59-197 Rushing
OV SP ST AW AC CT CA BT PB RB SA
69 69 62 41 67 65 69 68 43 56 77
Jackson is our starter at Fullback by default - we'd love to get a real slobberknocker type in here to pound away; and may end up using an Offensive Lineman or Tight End out of position in some short-yardage situations. Jackson is our starter in the meantime.

#47 Jimmy Dixon, Sr-RS
6'1", 222 lbs
3-7 Rushing
OV SP ST AW AC CT CA BT PB RB SA
61 72 57 49 73 61 67 64 41 41 71
Jimmy Dixon is a converted running back into a fullback, and has never had the blocking capabilities we're looking for in our fullbacks. He won't be starting at fullback unless injuries cause all kinds of problems - most likely we'd find a backup blocker in his place. Dixon will serve as the third running back in the depth chart, and the second fullback in normal occasions.

(OVerall, SPeed, STrength, AWareness, AGility, ACceleration, CaTch, CArry, JuMp, Break Tackle, TacKle, Throw Power, Throw Accuracy, Pass Block, Run Block, Kick Power, Kick Accuracy, StAnima, INjury)

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Wide Receivers - Grade C+

FYI, all - I'm going out of town for the weekend, and will pick up either when I find time to do so before I leave or when I get back. Just so people know I'm not dropping this, I've been posting pretty frequently.

Kevin

[MizzouRah]

Great read thus far!

I wish I had the time to post a dynasty, at least I can follow yours. Good luck this year!


Tpdd

[Buzzbee]

Originally posted by Celeval
2004 Schedule

1. at Navy
   
2. vs. UConn
   
3. 
   
4. vs. Florida State
   
5. at Clemson
   
6. 
   
7. at #5 NC State
   
8. vs. Wake Forest
   
9. vs. #18 LSU
   
10. at #9 Maryland
    
11. 
    
12. vs. Duke
    
13. at North Carolina
    
14. vs. Virginia
    
15. at #11 Georgia
    

What a sweet schedule! Two nice breaks which result in two four game streches. And you don't have two weeks in a row where you are on the road. I would consider this just about the perfect schedule. If only NC State and Maryland were home rather than away. Oh well. Best of luck! Look forward to your return.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Wide Receivers - Grade C+

#82 Benjamin Holmes, So
6'2", 188 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA JM BT SA
78 90 41 42 87 91 80 46 94 42 89
Benjamin Holmes is a Junior College recruit from last season who immediately becomes our top wide receiver, as well as our fastest overall player. I'd love to be able to redshirt him - that awareness may turn out to be a problem - but we're very thin at wideout, and need the help. He'll be stepping into the role Jonathan Smith vacated with his graduation. Smith set a couple school records for catches and yardage in a season last year, and Holmes has the natural ability to do the same.

#5 Nate Curry, Sr-RS
5'10", 190 lbs
51 catches, 989 yards (19.4 avg), 6 TD
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA JM BT SA
77 82 47 75 83 80 76 62 82 48 86
Curry was a solid threat at the #2 wideout position last season, and should be again this year. Nate isn't a burner, but sees the field well; he'll line up opposite Holmes. We may play him at the number one spot if Holmes has problems with the role.

#7 Levon Thomas, Sr
6'0", 196 lbs
27 catches, 433 yards (16.0 avg), 2 TD
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA JM BT SA
72 83 43 68 80 80 74 58 77 37 77
Our third wideout, Levon Thomas will see time mostly on passing downs. He's a balanced third option, and generally a peg below Nate Curry in most game aspects. The advent of some talent at Tight End will probably see a reduction in the role of our third receiver; and that'll most likely carry over to Levon's game.

#80 George Cooper, So-RS
6'3", 215 lbs
8 catches, 105 yards (13.1 avg)
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA JM BT SA
67 76 51 51 78 78 69 59 87 47 78
Good size, but not a lot else for Cooper. He's the leading candidate for the #2 role next year behind Holmes; which will be a problem - he's more suited for a #3 spot. Cooper saw time as a redshirt freshman at the fourth WR spot, and will play in the same position. Hopefully some early-season laughers will result in playing time.

#85 LeKeldrick Bridges, So-RS
6'0", 172 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA JM BT SA
67 78 41 53 82 82 66 49 78 43 89
A similar player to George Cooper, Bridges will see less time this season, but may step into the #3 role next year. The same note as applied to Cooper applies here - we'll have to work him into the rotation to gain at least some experience.

[Celeval]

Originally posted by Buzzbee
What a sweet schedule! Two nice breaks which result in two four game streches. And you don't have two weeks in a row where you are on the road. I would consider this just about the perfect schedule. If only NC State and Maryland were home rather than away. Oh well. Best of luck! Look forward to your return.

It's not half bad. It's basically the schedule I was randomly assigned, although I pulled out one scheduled cupcake (Rice, maybe? Hehe) for UConn, since they're actually on Tech's schedule next season; and swapped Syracuse for LSU since I wanted another ranked team in there.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Tight End - Grade C

#88 Maurio Altman, Fr
6'3", 255 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA BT PB RB SA
76 67 71 51 68 72 72 67 64 64 66 83
The first of two Tight End recruits, Altman moves right to the top of the depth chart. I love getting the tight end involved in the passing game, but that couldn't happen due to a lack of some talent last season; Mario should help that right away. I expect Mario to be in contention for freshman All-American; a 45-catch season is not out of the question.

#83 Darius Williams, Sr-RS
6'6", 266 lbs
6 catches, 67 yards (11.2 avg)
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA BT PB RB SA
65 57 67 65 59 64 56 76 66 50 63 71
Darius Williams is the second highest-rated tight end we have, but I'm not happy with him in the second TE role. He'll play the third TE spot, but will be seeing some time at Fullback as well.

#84 Max Vance, Fr
6'4", 235 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT CA BT PB RB SA
64 69 60 41 66 71 68 66 57 50 53 81
Vancey will play the second tight end, and will see a good bit of time out of the double-TE sets. He'll play the H-back role in the Goal-Line sets as well. He won't be as big a target as Altman, but I still am counting on Vance to take some pressure off the WRs in the passing game.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Tackle - Grade B-

#70 Nat Dorsey, Sr
Pre-Season First Team All-American
6'6", 331 lbs
58 pancakes, 6 sacks allowed
OV ST AW PB RB SA
99 94 84 94 92 88
Nat Dorsey is the cornerstone of our offensive line. A second-team All-American last year, and preseason first-team this year; he's one of the best Left Tackles in college football, and should be taken high in the draft. We're lucky to get him back this season, and will be doing a good bit of running right behind him once more. He'll be inked in as starting at LT.

#77 Kyle Wallace, Sr
6'6", 285 lbs
32 pancakes, 5 sacks allowed
OV ST AW PB RB SA
90 82 80 85 86 71
The other reason our offensive line is a strength; Kyle Wallace holds down the right tackle spot. Not quite as strong as Big Nat, but still a great player and an anchor of our line.

#75 Jeremy Phillips, Sr-RS
6'7", 286 lbs
OV ST AW PB RB SA
75 81 61 74 81 75
A solid second stringer, and backup to both Wallace and Dorsey. We'll be losing each of our top 3 guys this season; that will turn into a major problem at year's end.

#79 Jerrell Craig, Jr
Redshirting
6'4", 283 lbs
OV ST AW PB RB SA
69 80 54 67 77 71
A pretty good run blocker right off the bat, Jerrell was recruited as a JuCo 3-star tackle. He'll need to step right into that role next season, when he'll be most likely our starter at RT. He will be redshirting this season.

#71 Davon Brown, Jr
Redshirting
6'3", 281 lbs
OV ST AW PB RB SA
58 72 56 64 59 70
Davon Brown was a JuCo recruited for depth (1* tackle). He'll redshirt this season in hopes of a breakout, but if he actually plays for us next season, we have major trouble.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Guard - Grade C+

#74 Leon Robinson, Sr-RS
6'4", 321 lbs
17 pancakes, 2 sacks allowed
OV ST AW PB RB SA
85 84 67 81 84 73
Another senior on the offensive line, Leon Robinson is our starting Left Guard, next to Dorsey. He consistantly paved the way for Hollings last season, and will be a key cog doing the same for Ace.

#72 Brad Honeycutt, Jr-RS
6'4", 297 lbs
13 pancackes, 3 sacks allowed
OV ST AW PB RB SA
74 84 56 76 77 78
One of the weaker points on the interior line, Honeycutt is still a solid starter. He'll be one of the returning starters next season, and will be counted on to provide some sort of consistantly. He starts at Right Guard.

#65 Andy Tidwall-Neal, Jr-RS
6'4", 299 lbs
OV ST AW PB RB SA
66 79 52 64 72 66
Our third (and backup) guard, Tidwall-Neal isn't a half-bad run blocker, but will have trouble if we need to throw behind him.

#73 Merrill Ashley, Fr
Redshirting
6'1", 279 lbs
OV ST AW PB RB SA
64 72 44 72 70 74
Ashley isn't someone we want on the field right away, but we're redshirting him with an eye towards a starting spot next season.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Center - Grade C-

#66 Joseph Hayes, Fr
6'2", 278 lbs
OV ST AW PB RB SA
73 71 52 71 83 81
A freshman, and very raw at that - but Hayes is already a nasty run blocker, which is what we want from him most of all. He'll most likely be a four-year starter for us in the middle of the line.

#68 Devin Duffy, Fr
6'4", 294 lbs
OV ST AW PB RB SA
49 70 46 61 65 63
If Devin Duffy is playing Center for us, we're in trouble. He's basically a camp body; Jeremy Phillips will be our #2 Center in case of fatigue or injury.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Defensive End - Grade B-

#56 Eric Henderson, Jr-RS
Second Team All-American
6'3", 268 lbs.
43 tackles, 13 sacks, 5 FF, 1 FR
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
89 67 77 73 69 71 77 79
Eric Henderson was a surprise on the right side of the defensive line last season; breaking out with a solid 13-sack season. He did that opposite pro prospect Greg Gathers (and outshone GG), but this year offensive lines will be focusing on Eric. He'll be our starter and leader at Right End, and will be counted on to provide a lot of pressure with our inexperienced linebacking corps.

#93 Terron Pullen, So-RS
6'2", 277 lbs
8 tackles
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
77 63 68 58 63 66 70 73
Our new starter at LE, Pullen has three years ahead of him to step up. This year we're looking for solid work, if not the kind of season Eric Henderson enjoyed last year. He will be our starter, but will swap some time with the senior Hargrove.

#44 Tony Hargrove, Sr
6'4", 268 lbs
6 tackles
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
77 63 70 64 64 65 67 76
A very similar player to Pullen, Hargrove will be the third end. As such, he'll see a good bit of playing time spotting Pullen and Henderson for rests. Pullen gets the nod for the starting spot due basically to youth - this is Tony's last year in a Yellow Jacket uniform.

#91 Chirod Williams, Sr-RS
6'4", 237 lbs
4 tackles, 1 sack
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
68 58 66 52 70 62 61 66
Chirod will play in the second team defensive set, and will possibly make appearances in the goal-line defensive set.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Defensive Tackle - Grade C+

#92 Alfred Malone, Sr-RS
6'4", 302 lbs
29 tackles, 5 sacks, 3 FF
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
79 52 83 63 55 53 78 75
While not a standout, Alfred Malone did a solid job plugging the middle during much of last season, and will return there. Malone leads the returning corps of Defensive Tackles - we return all players here from last season, and the depth chart doesn't change much.

#94 Travis Parker, Jr-RS
6'5", 267 lbs
25 tackles, 7 sacks, 1 FR
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
77 54 77 69 52 52 78 82
Travis Parker returns to his starting defensive line spot. We counted on Travis to provide some good pressure on the passer last season, and hope he can bring the same this year.

#99 Omar Billy, Jr-RS
5 tackles, 1 sack
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
73 55 76 50 57 60 72 72
First off the bench for the second straight year. Billy looks to start next season once Malone graduates.

#50 Brad Brezina, So-RS
3 tackles, 2 sacks
OV SP ST AW AG AC TK ST
69 48 77 51 48 49 71 70
Brezina fills in the depth chart for us at DT, playing in goal-line sets and in the second string defense

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Outside Linebacker - Grade C+

#16 Kingi McNair, So-RS
6'1", 222 lbs
39 tackles, 5 sacks, 2 FF, 1 FR, 1 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT TK ST
80 76 65 61 73 78 56 74 84
Kingi McNair was a pleasant surprise at LOLB last season, and will need to be the leader of the linebackers this season. As the only returning starter, McNair will play on the left side, and will have to be a force on the edge for us to be competitive on defense.

#57 Tabugbo Anyansi, Sr
6'1", 223 lbs
21 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 FF, 1 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT TK ST
70 74 63 60 66 75 46 64 71
A solid player, but not a good tackler. With the ROLB starting spot open to competition, I was hoping Anyansi would step up to make a play, but he'll only be starting in the 4-backer sets (3-4, 4-4). He'll be the top player off the bench in the 3-back sets.

#49 Gerris Wilkinson, Jr-RS
6 tackles, 1 FR, 1 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT TK ST
67 64 68 51 63 64 47 68 71
Second string at OLB still means a good bit of playing time.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Inside Linebacker - Grade C-

#43 Trent Ball, Fr
6'2", 231 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT TK ST
73 70 59 54 75 70 51 83 81
Trent Ball has all the talent in the world, and will be our starting MLB right off the bat. Trent is coming in highly rated, and has the potential to make all kinds of plays for us. He'll need to, filling in for Daryl Smith.

#59 Anthony Banks, Fr
6'2", 222 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT TK ST
71 85 62 44 82 73 55 81 86
Not too far off from Trent Ball, Anthony Banks is another stellar Inside Backer recruit. The thing that jumps out at me about Banks is his speed - he can stay right with almost all our WRs and just about all our corners. With that in mind, he'll be moving right in at ROLB, we need a player of his caliber on the field. He'll shift inside during the 3-4 and 4-4 sets, and may even see playing time in the Nickel with that speed.

#51 Charles Roberts, Fr
6'3", 220 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT TK ST
52 57 57 44 52 56 42 66 62
Roberts is a walkon at MLB, and fills out depth.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Cornerback - Grade C

#9 Reuben Houston, Jr-RS
6'0", 195 lbs
49 tackles, 3 Int, 2 FF, 1 TD, 5 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
79 87 47 62 86 85 51 88 46 89
Reuben Houston moves from a very successful #2 corner to our top slot. He had good hands last season, and didn't get burnt nearly as often as Jonathan Cox did. We find out this year if that was due to talent, or facing the #2 receiver.

#27 Venice Gilliam, Jr
5'10", 196 lbs
5 tackles, 1 FF
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
68 79 45 55 79 75 47 81 48 86
We tried to redshirt Gilliam last season, but had to pull him off when injuries in the secondary became a problem. He'll be our #2 corner this year by a slim margin over I-Perfection Harris - Harris has the speed, but Gilliam outplays him nearly everywhere else. We'll need to rely on safety help badly here, however.

#11 I-Perfection Harris, So-RS
5'10", 171 lbs
33 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 Int, 1 FF, 6 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
68 88 37 47 79 82 46 73 39 75
A freshman All-American last season, Harris has this spot due mostly to his speed. He has the potential to be a solid player, but is very lacking in some of the skills needed to be successful at more than a nickel corner spot.

#25 Dennis Davis, Sr
6'0", 186 lbs
14 tackles, 1 Int, 1 TD, 4 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
68 83 42 54 75 85 42 76 45 63
Davis is a guy I'd almost feel comfortable starting, but his stanima won't let him stay on the field long enough. He'll be our Dime back this year.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Free Safety - Grade C

#22 James Butler, Sr
6'3", 211 lbs
62 tackles, 2 Int, 1 FF, 2 FR, 5 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
75 77 56 65 77 78 57 79 59 82
Butler did a solid job as a roving safety last season, but will be moving up this year to play in the Strong Safety spot. If he falls through there, we may move him back to FS and move our 'backer Anthony Banks in to play SS.

#24 Jamar Simms, Fr
5'11", 202 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
73 83 50 50 86 82 57 86 59 89
A starter right away at FS - Simms has the speed we like back in the deep area, and will push Butler forward to SS. If Simms gets consistantly burnt early, we may need to make a move; but the spot is his to win right here.

#15 Nathan Burton, Sr-RS
6'2", 205 lbs
24 tackles, 1 FF
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
62 70 53 54 75 73 48 72 51 73
Burton had a good bit of playing time last year, but will see his tackles come in relief time this season.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Strong Safety - Grade C

#20 Dawan Landry, Jr-RS
6'2", 216 lbs
43 tackles, 2 Sacks, 3 Int, 1 FF, 5 Pass Defl
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
64 72 56 59 76 73 51 75 58 82
Landry was a warm body in the SS spot last year. He had a couple of very good games, but will be playing mostly Special Teams and backup in the secondary this season.

#29 Tracy Cage, Fr
Redshirting
6'0", 182 lbs
OV SP ST AW AG AC CT JM TK ST
62 77 45 53 75 74 56 80 52 79
Cage has the tools to be a solid player in the ACC, but he's not nearly there. He'll redshirt this season, as while the depth we have isn't great in the secondary; he wouldn't be a large enough improvement to justify.

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Kicker - Grade C+

#33 David Jordan, So-RS
First Team All-American
6'4", 200 lbs
19-19 FG, 46 Long; 43-44 XP, 0 Blocked
OV AW KP KA
78 54 89 82
David Jordan was another nice surprise last season; his accuracy from mid-long range helped our offense a good bit. He's the hands-down kicker this season; although another big surprise with the First-Team All-American selection.

2004 Roster: Punter - Grade C

#41 Jermaine MacPherson, Fr
6'0", 194 lbs
OV AW KP KA
70 55 81 85
Jermaine MacPherson is one of two very solid recruits coming in to compete at the punter spot. He has the slight edge in current ability, so will be the starter this year. The competition will be wide open next season again, however, with Beasley coming off the redshirt year.

#48 Andrea Beasley, Fr
Redshirting
6'1", 180 lbs
OV AW KP KA
65 49 78 80
Beasley is redshirting, as Jermaine MacPherson has the starting job locked up.

[korme]

celeval is back!

woot

[Celeval]

2004 Roster: Special Teams

Kick Returners:
CB I-Perfection Harris: 34 Returns, 747 Yards, 1 TD
WR Benjamin Holmes

Punt Returner:
CB I-Perfection Harris

I like the idea of using defensive players as my returners, mostly because that means I will always trot out rested players on offense. The need for Ben Holmes to return kicks, however, is one I can't overlook right now - simply because he is the fastest on the team and I need that kind of speed on the field for a kick return. I-Perfection nailed down his spot here thanks to the 96-yard TD return last season.

[Celeval]

Coach Report Card
Kevin Donnelly (8-5), 1 Year
Coach Prestige: ****

"Okay, Coach Donnelly, Fall's here and you know what that means...time to play some football."

Job Security: B

Next Game: Week 1 at Navy

[Celeval]

Preseason Sports Illustrated: College Preview Issue

SI Cover:
HB Selvin Young, Texas (Jr)
Oh So Special...
Young and the Longhorns look to take home the title in 2004.

Preseason 117 (top 25):
Ready to Rumble: Buckeyes look to take home the title in 2004.
1. Texas
2. Miami
3. Oklahoma
4. Ohio State
5. NC State
6. Virginia Tech
7. Texas A&M
8. Auburn
9. Maryland
10. Oregon State
11. Georgia
12. Tennessee
13. Nebraska
14. Kansas State
15. Iowa
16. Michigan
17. Pittsburgh
18. LSU
19. Colorado
20. Notre Dame
21. USC
22. Ole Miss
23. South Carolina
24. West Virginia
25. Alabama
26. Florida State
27. Virginia
33. Georgia Tech
41. Clemson
68. Wake Forest
86. Duke
98. North Carolina

Heisman Watch
Believe the Hype: The 6'0", 231 lb Junior Running back has performed well in the spotlight
QB Timmy Chang, Hawaii (Sr-RS)
HB Maurice Clarett, Ohio State (Jr)
HB Wali Lundy, Virginia (Jr)
HB Lonta Hobbs, TCU (Jr)
WR Broderick Clark, Louisville (Jr-RS)

Pre-season All-Americans
T Nat Dorsey, Georgia Tech - First Team
G Nathan Bennett, Clemson - First Team
DE Chris Canty, Virginia - First Team
K David Jordan, Georgia Tech - First Team
WR Steve Suter, Maryland - Second Team
DE Eric Henderson - Second Team
CB Justin Miller, Clemson - Second Team

Conference Outlook
ACC:
1. NC State
2. Maryland
3. Florida State
4. Virginia
5. Georgia Tech
6. Clemson
7. Wake Forest
8. Duke
9. North Carolina

Big Ten: Ohio State
Big 12 (N): Nebraska
Big 12 (S): Texas
Big East: Miami
C-USA: Louisville
MAC (E): UCF
MAC (W): Northern Illinois
Mountain West: New Mexico
PAC-10: Oregon State
SEC (E): Georgia
SEC (W): Auburn
Sun Belt: Arkansas State
WAC: Hawaii

[Celeval]

Originally posted by Shorty3281
woot

w00t!

Right. It's a full night's work to get my depth chart worked out - will play Navy (at least) tomorrow night and get that posted then. Gah, this game makes me want to miss work badly. :-D

[Buzzbee]

Glad you're back Celeval!

[Celeval]

Week One Action:

Georgia Tech at Navy

Preview:
Navy (0-0)
Overall: D+
Offense: D
Defense: C
Special Teams: C

Key Players:
OLB L. Jackson, 73 OVR
G L. Jones, 72 OVR
OLB E. McGill, 71 OVR

Navy wins the toss, and elects to receive - they go three and out, testing our young linebackers with a couple runs up the gut. We move right down the field on the Navy defense - Bilbo completes two passes to Maurio Altman before Altman is knocked out of the game with back spasms, and Eziemefe gets our first score of the season. We move up and down the field pretty easily, as expected - a pair of turnovers and the halftime clock is all that stops Bilbo and the Jackets in the first half.

Halftime: Georgia Tech 28, Navy 3

Bilbo takes a seat after halftime, and we'll get our first look at Haston. His one eventual mistake results in Navy's only touchdown of the day on a 93-yard interception return.

Final Score: Georgia Tech 49, Navy 10

Leading Passers:
GT QB Damarius Bilbo 11-13, 152 yards, 1 TD
GT QB LaShaun Haston 16-26, 247 yards, 1 TD, 1 Int
NAVY QB Lamar Owens 9-23, 77 yards, 1 Int

Leading Rushers:
GT HB Ajenavi Eziemefe 22-145 yards, 3 TD
NAVY HB Alex Watkins 6-28 yards

Leading Receivers:
GT WR Benjamin Holmes 7-130 yards, 1 TD
GT WR Levon Thomas 5-84 yards, 1 TD
GT WR Nate Curry 4-67 yards
NAVY WR Dan Gibbon 2-19 yards

Outstanding Defensive Players:
GT MLB Trent Ball 7 Tackles (3 TFL)
GT FS Jamar Simms 6 Tackles (2 TFL)
GT MLB Anthony Blanks 5 Tackles, 1 Int, TD
NAVY FS Wayne Irons 9 Tackles (1 TFL), 1 Sack
NAVY MLB Jeremy Chase 7 Tackles (1 TFL), 1 Sack
NAVY CB Colby Sampson 5 Tackles, 1 Int, TD

Old Spice Players of the Game:
GT MLB Anthony Blanks 5 Tackles, FF, 1 Int, TD
NAVY CB Colby Sampson 5 Tackles, 1 Int, TD

[Celeval]

Week One:
SI Cover:
DE Marcus Spears, LSU (Sr)
A Strong Start
The Tigers open 2004 with a huge victory against #7 Texas A&M.

Top 10:
Hopes Dampened: Tigers drop Texas A&M to 0-1 after 28-24 cliffhanger.
1. Texas (39) (0-0): BYE
2. Miami (20) (0-0): BYE
3. Oklahoma (1-0): W 42-3 RICE
4. Ohio State (0-0): BYE
5. NC State (0-0): BYE
6. Virginia Tech (0-0): BYE
7. Auburn (0-0): BYE
8. Maryland (0-0): BYE
9. Oregon State (0-0): BYE
10. Georgia (0-0): BYE

Dropped out of Top Ten: #7 Texas A&M

Heisman Watch:
Household Name: Ohio State's Clarett has all the ingrediants of a Heisman-quality running back.
QB Timmy Chang (Sr-RS), Hawaii
HB Maurice Clarett (Jr), Ohio State
HB Wali Lundy (Jr), Virginia
HB Lonta Hobbs (Jr), TCU
WR Broderick Clark (Jr-RS), Louisville

Players of the Week:
(NCAA)
HB Ajenavi Eziemefe, Georgia Tech (So-RS): 22 carries, 145 yards, 3 TD; 2 rec, 26 yards
MLB Anthony Blanks, Georgia Tech (Fr): 5 tackles, Int, FF, TD
(ACC)
HB Ajenavi Eziemefe, Georgia Tech (So-RS): 22 carries, 145 yards, 3 TD; 2 rec, 26 yards
MLB Anthony Blanks, Georgia Tech (Fr): 5 tackles, Int, FF, TD

[Celeval]

Week Two Action:

UConn (0-0) at Georgia Tech (1-0)

Preview:
UConn (0-0)
Overall: C+
Offense: B-
Defense: C+
Special Teams: C+

Key Players:
T R. Krug: 89 OVR
HB T. Caulley: 87 OVR
OLB M. Lloyd: 81 OVR

Our home opener against the University of Connecticut Huskies. We elect to kick in order to get the ball at the start of the second half. Alfred Malone comes up with back-to-back sacks on the first two plays of the game, and we're off and running. Our offense sputters out of the gate - an Eziemefe fumble puts the Huskies in good enough field position to garner a 7-0 lead. Our defense continues to play well - we come up with six sacks in the first half, three by Alfred Malone; but Bilbo has thrown two interceptions into the end zone at this point, and we only manage a tie at the half. Even worse, we learn during the half that Benjamin Holmes will be out for three weeks after tearing an abdominal muscle.

Halftime: Georgia Tech 7, UConn 7

We don't get on the board again until late in the third quarter, after an extended ground drive. P.J. Daniels picks up his second touchdown on the year to give us a 14-7 lead; but after Bilbo fumbles the ball on our next possession inside the red zone; Connecticut has a short drive to tie the game at 14 in the fourth quarter. We swap scores halfway through the fourth - a field goal for a touchdown, and we find ourselves trailing 21-17 with 3:29 to play, in a game which should have been a win from the start. Lucky for us, we have Nate Curry. First play from scrimmage, Curry takes a short hitch and turns it into a 70 yard touchdown reception. We lead 24-21 and need to hold on. Three and out with 2:42 to play, and we let Eziemefe do his stuff. We pick up two first downs - not enough to run out the clock - but set up a 50 yard field goal attempt for David Jordan - good! 1:20 left on the clock, and we lead by six. UConn is not giving up, and comes right down the field - 25 seconds left, and they have the ball at our 31 yard line, within striking range. A third and four play into the end zone is missed - and we're looking at fourth and four with 0:17 left, on our 25 yard line. Our defensive call is a Dime set, the Cover Three Switch zone. They come out in an I-Slot formation, motion the Fullback out to the right - and Pullen comes up with the biggest sack of the game. Bilbo sits on the ball, and that'll do it. Not exactly the warmup we had in mind, but we come out of it with a win.

Final Score: Georgia Tech 27, UConn 21

Greatest Game: 407 (2nd)

Leading Passers:
GT QB Damarius Bilbo 13-24, 246 yards, 1 TD, 2 Int
UConn QB Jermell Williams 14-30, 183 yards, 2 TD, 2 Int

Leading Rushers:
GT HB Ajenavi Eziemefe 24-95 yards
GT HB P.J. Daniels 8-55 yards, 1 TD
UConn HB Terry Caulley 18-78 yards

Leading Receivers:
GT WR Nate Curry 4-113 yards, 1 TD
UConn WR Keron Henry 6-83 yards, 1 TD

Outstanding Defensive Players:
GT FS James Butler 11 Tackles
GT DE Terron Pullen 5 Tackles (3 TFL), 3 Sacks
GT DT Alfred Malone 5 Tackles (3 TFL), 3 Sacks
GT CB Venice Gilliam 5 Takles, 2 Int
UConn MLB Alfred Fincher 7 Tackles (2 TFL), 1 Sack
UConn FS Brooks Hester 7 Tackles (1 TFL), 1 Int

Old Spice Players of the Game:
GT CB Venice Gilliam 5 Takles, 2 Int
UConn FS Brooks Hester 7 Tackles (1 TFL), 1 Int, FF, FR

[Celeval]

Week Two:
SI Cover:
QB Zack Mills, Penn State (Sr-RS)
Stunned!
Auburn's high hopes are dismantled on opening weekend.

Top 10:
Auburn Stumbles: The #7 Tigers are surprised by Penn State on opening weekend.
1. Texas (37) (1-0): W 34-6 BGSU
2. Miami (21) (1-0): W 42-7 BUCKS
3. Oklahoma (1) (2-0): W 60-0 ILLINI
4. NC State (1-0): W 33-23 TAMU
5. Virginia Tech (0-0): BYE
6. Maryland (1-0): W 45-20 TULSA
7. Oregon State (1-0): W 44-3 WMU
8. Georgia (1-0): W 45-3 UTEP
9. LSU (2-0): W 38-6 NAVY
10. Ohio State (0-1): L 7-42 MIAMI

Dropped out of Top Ten: #7 Auburn

Heisman Watch:
He Got Next?: Oklahoma's Jones has big hands to go along with his big heart.
QB Timmy Chang (Sr-RS), Hawaii - 26-49, 373 yards, 2 TD
HB Maurice Clarett (Jr), Ohio State - 27 carries, 158 yards; 2 rec, 15 yards
HB Wali Lundy (Jr), Virginia - 15 carries, 122 yards, TD; 2 rec, 40 yards
HB Lonta Hobbs (Jr), TCU - 22 carries, 192 yards, 2 TD; 5 rec, 89 yards, 2 TD
WR Brandon Jones (Sr), Oklahoma - 10 rec, 208 yards, 3 TD

Players of the Week:
(NCAA)
HB Lonta Hobbs, TCU (Jr): 22 carries, 192 yards, 2 TD; 5 rec, 89 yards, 2 TD
MLB Abraham Reese, BC (Fr): 8 Tackles (2 TFL), 2 sacks, TD

(ACC)
QB Charlie Whitehurst, Clemson (Jr-RS): 18-31, 470 yards, 4 TD; 4 car, 22 yards
CB Venice Gilliam, Georgia Tech (Jr): 5 Tackles, 2 Int

[Buzzbee]

Hmmm. First week - #7 Texas A&M gets upset and drops out of the top 10. Second week - #7 Auburn gets upset and drops out of the top 10. I'd hate to be Oregon State right now.

[Celeval]

Been giving some thought to a strategy change here - with Florida State at home next on our schedule; and Ben Holmes going to be out for that game, it leaves us with a pretty thin receiver lineup. I'm debating changing playbooks for the FSU game and moving to more much of a running attack - one-wideout, using the tight ends. Thoughts?

[Buzzbee]

Before I could answer, I'd need to know a little about FSU's defense. What are their strengths and weaknesses? If they have a shutdown corner, but are weak at linebacker, then shifting the load to the TE's might be a good call. However, if they have solid backers but weak corners, then sticking with the passing game might be a better call. Who knows, Bridges and Cooper might suprise you.

[Celeval]

Week Three:

We have a bye to prepare for the Florida State game.

SI Cover:
CB J.C. Jamison, Maryland (Fr)
Ready for Prime Time?
The overconfident Terrapins get a wake-up call from Florida State.

Top 10:
How It's Done: Florida State drops Maryland, increases its ACC record to 1-1.
1. Texas (37) (2-0): W 62-0 MTSU
2. Miami (21) (2-0): W 65-14 SJSU
3. Oklahoma (1) (3-0): W 47-17 UTAH ST
4. NC State (2-0): W 37-27 WAKE
5. Virginia Tech (1-0): W 41-16 UNC
7. Oregon State (2-0): W 40-3 BALL ST
8. Georgia (2-0): W 44-0 BAYLOR
9. LSU (3-0): W 45-14 BYU
9. Kansas State (2-0): W 35-14 UVA
10. Ohio State (1-1): W 51-16 ZIPS

Dropped out of Top Ten: #6 Maryland

Heisman Watch:
Maurice! The 6'0", 231 lbs Junior running back has performed well in the spotlight.
QB Timmy Chang (Sr-RS), Hawaii - 48-86, 781 yards, 7 TD; 5 car, 13 yards
HB Maurice Clarett (Jr), Ohio State - 43 carries, 293 yards, 3 rec, 109 yards, 3 Total TDs
HB Wali Lundy (Jr), Virginia - 31 carries, 182 yards, 3 TD; 6 rec. 80 yards
HB Lonta Hobbs (Jr), TCU - 49 carries, 369 yards, 6 TD; 8 rec, 145 yards, 2 TD
WR Devard Darling (Sr-RS), Washington State - 16 rec, 424 yards, 6 TD

Players of the Week:
(NCAA)
HB Maurice Clarett, Ohio State (Jr): 16 carries, 135 yards; 94 rec yards, 3 Total TDs
MLB Robert Watts, Utah State (Sr-RS): 18 tackles (3 TFL), 3 sacks, 2 FF, 2 FR

(ACC)
HB T.A. McLendon, NC State (Jr): 11 carries, 59 yards, TD
CB Antonio Cromartie, Florida State (Fr-RS): Tackle (1 TFL), Int, TD

[Celeval]

Some news and notes about Florida State:

Last season we lost 27-21 after coming back from a 21-7 halftime deficit, in Tallahassee. In fact, we got noted as a Greatest Game, after being shut down inside the five yard line on fourth and two with under a minute left. Stats from that game:

Leading Passers
GT QB D. Bilbo 9-18, 270 yards, 1 TD, 2 Int
FSU QB C. Rix 19-28, 332 yards, 2 TD, 3 Int

Leading Rushers
GT HB Tony Hollings 20-57 yards, 2 TD
FSU HB Greg Jones 17-67 yards, 2 TD

Leading Receivers
GT WR Nate Curry 5-176 yards, 1 TD
FSU WR Donnie Carter 4-86 yards

This Year's Florida State Team:
#24 Florida State 1-1 (1-1): W1
Overall: A-
Offense: A-
Defense: B
Special Teams: A

Points Per Game: 36.0 (25th)
Total Offense: 424.0 (38th)
Rush Offense: 153.0 (59th)
Pass Offense: 271.0 (31st)
Total Defense: 446.0 (91st)
Rush Defense: 145.5 (49th)
Pass Defense: 300.5 (104th)
Turnover Diff: +1.50 (16th)

The averages are tough to figure after only the two games - Maryland was down to FSU 31-7 at the half, so must have thrown a good bit in the second half and may have skewed those numbers.

As noted in the Week Three roundup; FSU is 1-1 now, (1-1 in conference) after losing to North Carolina (! - their first win since 2002!) 31-34 in the opener; and beating the crap out of #6 Maryland 41-17 in Week three. Impact players from those games:

[Game One]
A. Bowman (UNC): 3 rec, 47 yards, 15 car, 44 yards
C. Rix (FSU): 13-26, 231 yards, 5 car, 32 yards, 2 total TD

[Game Two]
A. Cromartie (FSU): 1 Tackle (1 TFL), Int, TD
J.Jamison (UMD): 2 Tackles, Int, FF, FR


FSU Unit Rankings:
DE: B (Chauncey Davis: 90 OVR, Eric Moore: 82 OVR - Kamerion Wimbley: 80 OVR)
DT: C (Broderick Bunkley: 74 OVR, Kendrick Norman: 70 OVR - Jelani Walden: 69 OVR)
OLB: C+ (Ernie Sims: 88 OVR, A.J. Nicholson: 82 OVR - (MLB) Landon Monroe: 71 OVR)
MLB: C (Thomas Scott: 69 OVR - Landon Monroe: 68 OVR)
CB: B- (Antonio Cromarte: 87 OVR, Bryant McFadden: 84 OVR, (WR) P.K. Sam: 78 OVR)
FS: B (Kyler Ball: 88 OVR)
SS: C+ (Jerome Carter: 75 OVR)

The players after the dashes are the backups. As noted, the OVR ratings of players change based on position - each position calculates OVR differently. Their weakness seems to be the middle of the field - if we can get them to pull their OLBs to the outside or run out of the Nickel set (their Nickel lineup has Nicholson and Scott), we might have some success up the middle. Nickel set would actually be the best bet for us - as we'd be tiring out P.K. Sam as well, who's had success against us last year, and is their #3 WR.

The playbook I'm considering:

UTAH STATE
Ace-Big (HB, WR, 3 TE) - 2 TE to weak side bunched, WR/TE to strong
Ace-Bunch (HB, 4 WR) - 1 WR to weak side, 3 to strong
Ace-Empty (HB as slot, 4 WR) - WR/HB to weak side, 3 WR to strong
I-Form-Y-Trips (HB, FB, TE, 2 WR) - HB/FB in straight I, TE & WRs on strong side
Maryland I (2 HB, FB, 2 TE) - HB/HB/FB in straight I, TEs balanced
Power-T (2 HB, FB, 2 TE) - HB/HB/FB in flat T, TEs balanced
Shotgun-Ace (2 TE, 2 WR, HB) - fully balanced save for HB next to QB on strong side
Shotgun-Bunch (TE, 3 WR, HB) - 2 WR/TE to strong side
Wishbone (2 HB, FB, 2 TE) - HB/HB/FB in wishbone, TEs balanced
Goal Line (3 TE, HB, FB)
Hail Mary (5 WR)

The Ace-Bunch and Ace-Empty sets should be good to get at least Nickel defense out of, with the Empty set having three running plays (QB Draw, and a pair of Options which involve the HB coming into motion). The Ace-Bunch has a handful of Draw/Dive/Toss plays to the HB as well.

[Buzzbee]

It looks like they have a pretty strong secondary, but are weak up the middle. If they were running a 3-4 it would be a no brainer to run over center, but since it looks like they are running a 4-3, it might be a little more difficult. Especially with the rookie centers you have.

Picking on the MLB looks to be a sound strategy. Slants and short In routes seem to be a good bet.

Good luck!

I said it's GREAT, to be, a fuuuuuzzy bee. I said it's GREAT, to be, a fuuuuuzzy bee. I said it's Great, to be, a fucked up bee!

[digamma]

I'm reading.

I'm also playing with the Jackets in my dynasty, but I'm using DT Linden's rosters with incoming freshman, and with the exception of Alfred Malone, I don't have any of the 10 academic casualties in the depth chart.

I'm playing on All American with 6 minute quarters (I may need to up the quarter length for next season and fiddle with the sliders some). So far I'm 3-2, with losses to FSU and ClemPson. Upset Auburn 7-6 to make the SI cover. I lost Bilbo for the season handing the ball off (he tore an abdominal muscle) in the third quarter vs. BYU, and Suggs is struggling. If EA (or DT Linden, really) has any predictive value, Kenny Scott will be an immediate contributor this fall.

[tucker342]

great stuff so far

[Celeval]

Week Four Action:

#25 Florida State (1-1) at Georgia Tech (2-0)

Preview:
Florida State (1-1)
Overall: A-
Offense: A-
Defense: B
Special Teams: A

Key Players:
QB C. Rix: 542 pass yards
CB B. McFadden: 2 Ints
CB A.Cromartie: 2 Ints

Things look good at the start - we stop Florida State 3 and out on their first possession and drive right down the field for a score. End of the first quarter sees a 14-14 score, and we seem to be matching the Seminoles blow-for-blow. But for all the defensive analysis we did on them, we have plenty more weaknesses on defense, and FSU exploits them all. We get blown up on big plays - both from Reid out of the backfield and a couple big third downs from the wideouts, and trail too far back at the half to make much of a comeback.

Halftime: Florida State 35, Georgia Tech 14

The second half is basically watch us turn the ball over - needing to go to the air, Bilbo gets intercepted three more times (twice in the end zone), and Haston ends the game with a desperation pick himself.

Final Score: Florida State 52, Georgia Tech 26

Leading Passers:
GT QB Damarius Bilbo 16-31, 211 yards, 1 TD, 4 Int
GT QB LaShaun Haston 3-6, 46 yards, 1 Int
FSU QB Chris Rix 14-22, 249 yards, 4 TD, 0 Int

Leading Rushers:
GT HB Ajenavi Eziemefe 20-58, 1 TD
GT FB Johnathan Jackson 6-38
FSU HB Willie Reid 10-111, 2 TD

Leading Receivers:
GT WR Nate Curry 5-91 yards
GT TE Maurio Altman 5-85 yards
FSU WR Dominic Robinson 5-102 yards, 2 TD
FSU WR Chauncey Stovall 3-62 yards, 1 TD

Outstanding Defensive Players:
GT MLB Trent Ball 5 Tackles
GT DE Terron Pullen 3 Tackles (2 TFL), 1 Sack
FSU OLB A.J. Nicholson 8 Tackles, 1 Int
FSU MLB Thomas Scott 8 Tackles (1 TFL), 1 Sack

Old Spice Players of the Game:
GT HB Ajenavi Eziemefe 20-58, 1 TD; 2 rec, 19 yards, 1 TD
FSU QB Chris Rix 14-22, 249 yards, 4 TD, 0 Int

[Celeval]

Regarding the playbook change - I think the offensive planning helped. Our offense wasn't terrible, and I think we showed up well outside of the 5 interceptions. Okay, that sounds bad. Until it got to the 'We need to pass and they know it' stage, we did fine.

I like the Utah State playbook and will stick with it for a couple more games to see how it pans out. I liked getting the fullback into more of the offense as well.

[Celeval]

Week Four:

SI Cover:
Defender, Georgia
Staying the Course?
The brash Bulldogs look to extend their win streak against #8 LSU.

Top 10:
Snatch and Run!: Wolfpack withstand a tough road trip, winning 44-41
1. Texas (31) (3-0): W 43-16 HOU
2. Miami (24) (3-0): W 30-3 BOISE
3. Oklahoma (3) (4-0): W 33-10 IU
4. NC State (1) (3-0): W 44-41 LOUIS
5. Virginia Tech (2-0): W 41-3 ECU
7. Oregon State (3-0): W 35-12 BGSU
8. Georgia (3-0): W 41-35 SCAR
9. LSU (4-0): W 30-10 CIN
9. Kansas State (3-0): W 28-17 ILLINI
10. Ohio State (2-1): W 31-20 UK
UNR Georgia Tech (2-1): L 26-52 FSU

Dropped out of Top Ten: None

Heisman Watch:
Who is this guy?: McLendon is mentioned on everybody's Heisman List.
QB Timmy Chang (Sr-RS), Hawaii - 63-113, 1013 yards, 9 TD; 5 car, 13 yards
HB Lonta Hobbs (Jr), TCU - 73-542-7 Rushing, 13-205-3 Receiving
HB Maurice Clarett (Jr), Ohio State - 63-448 Rushing, 3-109 Receiving, 6 TDs
HB T.A. McLendon (Jr), North Carolina State - 64-380 Rushing, 4-57 Receiving, 5 TDs
WR Devard Darling (Sr-RS), Washington State - 20-521-6 Receiving

Players of the Week:
(NCAA)
HB Cedric Cobbs, Arkansas (Sr): 21 carries, 135 yards, 4 TD; 5 Rec. 99 yards
CB Kelly Jennings, Miami (Jr-RS): 3 Tackles, 2 Int, TD

(ACC)
HB Sam Maldonado, Maryland (Jr-RS): 37 carries, 209 yards, 16 receiving yards, 2 TDs
CB Ryan Hemby, Clemson (Sr-RS): Int, TD

[Celeval]

Week Five Action:

Georgia Tech (2-1) at Clemson (1-1)

Preview:
Clemson (1-1)
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B+

Key Players:
QB C. Whitehurst: 767 Pass Yards
WR D. Hamilton: 251 Rec Yards
WR A. Currie: 3 Rec TD

Clemson has the potential for an awesome offense - a great if immobile quarterback in Charlie Whitehurst, a very speedy freshman halfback, and a trio of solid receivers. The offensive line is no great shakes, however; and the only redeeming quality of their defense is Second-Team All-American Cornerback Justin Miller, who is rated a 99 overall. We'll be throwing away from him all day.

Clemson comes out with a page from the Florida State playbook - nothing but shotgun for two drives and an early 14-3 lead. We're getting absolutely killed in the defensive secondary. Late in the second quarter, we toss the passing game out the window and focus on running the ball with much success.

Halftime: Clemson 21, Georgia Tech 10

We cut the lead to 21-16 during the third quarter, and take a 24-21 lead late in the fourth. Our ball, under two minutes to play, and a fourth and seven call from the Clemson 33 yard line. A tough decision to make - we choose to go for the field goal rather than a long fourth down conversion. There's a reason we have a pre-season All-American at kicker - a 50 yard field goal is good, and we lead 27-21. Clemson's passing game is too much for us, and right down the field for a 28-27 lead. We couldn't cover a bed at this point. We get the ball with a minute to play and drive down, but Bilbo throws an interception down at the Clemson 10 with a few seconds to play, and that's the game.

Final Score: Clemson 28, Georgia Tech 27

Greatest Game #1: 835 Points

Well, that makes me feel better.

Leading Passers:
GT QB Damarius Bilbo 14-32, 187 yards, 0 TD, 4 Int
CLEM QB Charlie Whitehurst 24-41, 372 yards, 3 TD, 2 Int

Leading Rushers:
GT HB Ajenavi Eziemefe 22-91 yards, 1 TD
GT QB Damarius Bilbo 17-60 yards
GT HB Jimmy Dixon 6-27 yards, 1 TD
CLEM HB Tramaine Billie 7-46 yards

Leading Receivers:
GT WR Benjamin Holmes 8-131 yards
CLEM WR Derrick Hamilton 11-175 yards, 1 TD
CLEM WR Kelvin Grant 5-80 yards, 1 TD

Outstanding Defensive Players:
GT MLB Trent Ball 8 Tackles (1 TFL), 1 Sack
GT CB Rueben Houston 1 Tackle, 2 Int
CLEM DE Kwame Fitzpatrick 8 Tackles (2 TFL)
CLEM MLB Roosevelt Nelson 7 Tackles (2 TFL), 1 Sack

Old Spice Players of the Game:
GT CB Rueben Houston 1 Tackle, 2 Int
CLEM QB Charlie Whitehurst 24-41, 372 yards, 3 TD, 2 Int

[MrBug708]

Ouch Ouch Ouch

[Buzzbee]

Originally posted by MrBug708
Ouch Ouch Ouch

Ditto.

[BigDPW]

Originally posted by MrBug708
Ouch Ouch Ouch

Couldn't have saod it better myself...

Why did you have Bilbo throwing down by 1 on their 10 yard line??? Or was that just where the ball was intercepted not where you were on the field???

That was a tough loss... Hope you bounce back next game...

I am enjoying this dynasty alot... Keep up the good work... It is nice to see my Wolfpack in the top 5 and TA running his *ss off!!!

[Celeval]

It was intercepted there on the field - we had it at about the Clemson 41 or so. /Just/ out of field goal range - we hit a 50 yarder earlier, but just barely, and that was with the wind. I figured we needed about ten yards to get back into FG range, but Clemson called a cover two zone; the only guy with a shot of getting out of bounds (out of timeouts) was Curry running a corner route.

[Celeval]

Week Five:

SI Cover:
WR Michael Clayton, LSU (Sr)
Down to the Wire!
#8 LSU Slips by #7 ranked Georgia 32-25.

Top 10:
No Place Like Home?: Kansas State is still shaken following a home loss to Ohio State.
1. Texas (39) (4-0): W 27-24 UTAH
2. Miami (20) (4-0): W 37-6 BC
3. Oklahoma (4-0): W BYE
4. NC State (4-0): W 65-20 IDAHO
5. Virginia Tech (3-0): W 44-20 VANDY
6. Oregon State (4-0): W 38-0 DUKE
7. LSU (5-0): W 32-25 UGA
8. Ohio State (3-1): W 34-12 KSU
9. Alabama (4-0): W 35-21 USM
10. USC (3-0): BYE
UNR Georgia Tech (2-2): L 27-28 CLEMSON

Dropped out of Top Ten: #7 Georgia, #9 Kansas State

Heisman Watch:
Gaining Momentum: Clarett credits his O'line for allowing him to put up the numbers he has.
HB Lonta Hobbs (Jr), TCU - 97-673 Rushing, 15-248 Receiving, 12 TDs
HB T.A. McLendon (Jr), North Carolina State - 77-474 Rushing, 9-126 Receiving, 6 TDs
HB Maurice Clarett (Jr), Ohio State - 87-585 Rushing, 4-115 Receiving, 7 TDs
QB Timmy Chang (Sr-RS), Hawaii - 63-113, 1013 yards, 9 TD; 5 car, 13 yards
HB David Horne (Jr), Nebraska - 141-876-9 Rushing, 13 Rec Yds

Players of the Week:
(NCAA)
HB Jabari Davis, Tennessee (Sr): 30 carries, 184 yards, 3 Rec, 23 yards, 4 Total TDs
FS Tab Walker, Tulane (Fr): 5 Tackles, 2 Int, FF, TD

(ACC)
HB Jacque Lewis, North Carolina (Sr): 23 carries, 126 yards, 2 Total TDs
CB Lamont Reid, North Carolina State (Sr): 3 Tackles, 2 Int, TD

[Celeval]

Week Six:

We have a bye to lick our wounds before facing the Wolfpack.

SI Cover:
WR Terry Richardson, Arizona State (So-RS)
Starting Strong!
Sun Devils win their conference opener against Oregon State

Top 10:
Last Minute Madness!: #6 Oregon State loses an overtime stunner to Arizona State.
1. Texas (30) (4-0): BYE
2. Miami (28) (5-0): W 38-14 ND
3. Oklahoma (1) (5-0): W 27-21 MISS
4. NC State (5-0): W 24-14 UNC
5. Virginia Tech (4-0): W 43-16 UNM
6. LSU (6-0): W 28-24 MISS ST
7. Ohio State (4-1): W 52-3 NU
8. USC (4-0): W 38-35 Cal
9. Auburn (3-1): W 45-21 TXTECH
10. Georgia (3-1): BYE
UNR Georgia Tech (2-2): L 27-28 CLEMSON

Dropped out of Top Ten: #6 Oregon State, #9 Alabama

Heisman Watch:
Heisman Material?: Maldonado's performance has the fans in College Park believing in their Terrapins.
HB Lonta Hobbs (Jr), TCU - 118-786 Rushing, 17-290 Receiving, 13 TDs
HB Maurice Clarett (Jr), Ohio State - 1415 All-Purpose Yards, 9 TDs
HB David Horne (Jr), Nebraska - 176-1134-13 Rushing, 3-53 Receiving
HB Sam Maldonado (Jr-RS), Maryland - 139-850 Rushing, 5-47 Receiving, 8 TDs
WR Josh Davis (Sr-RS), Marshall - 32-558 Receiving, 4-15 Rushing, 9 TDs

Players of the Week:
(NCAA)
HB David Horne, Nebraska (Jr): 35 carries, 258 yards, 4 TD; 2 Rec, 40 yards
CB Sharriff Gillon, Illinois (So): Tackle, Int, 2 TD

(ACC)
HB Sam Maldonado, Maryland (Jr-RS): 31 carries, 189 yards, 2 Tota.l TD
LE Kendall High, North Carolina (Jr): 6 Tackles (4 TFL), 3 Sacks, 2 FF, 2 FR