Cubicle QB - September 29, 2009

Busy week... I’m a little under the weather… This Cubicle QB may be a little shorter than most, but don’t worry – I’ll make it up to you.

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda…
Here a couple of things we know to be true:
1. It’s a long, long SEC season. All the hits a QB takes can certainly take their toll.
2. Florida always beats Kentucky. The past twenty-two times, as a matter of fact.

Knowing those two things, I’d imagine that Urban Meyer would like another crack at that third down call late in the third quarter Saturday night.
I don’t have a problem with running up the score. The pollsters, the computers, and the BCS system are asking for it. I don’t have a problem with Tebow being on the field late in the third quarter of a blowout. I don’t even have a problem with Tebow dropping back to pass late in the third quarter of a blowout. But you’d better give him adequate protection… even extra protection.
The Gators sent out five receivers near the goal line leaving only five linemen to protect their stud QB. This time it cost them… and may have cost them dearly.
The good news is that Tebow gets an extra week of rest since Florida is on a bye week before heading to LSU. But the simple fact is that Meyer could have run up the score without leaving Tebow vulnerable. The Gators strength season has been running the ball, and their receiving corps has been injury-ridden and disappointing. The smart play was to the run the ball and keep your Heisman QB upright.
I understand Meyer was probably hoping to gain valuable game-time reps for his offense, and he certainly thought he was doing the right thing. But didn’t your mom teach you not play with fire, Urban??

Call of the Week
Despite an upset riddled weekend, it was a bit of a dull week as far announcing goes. So as much as it pains me, I’m offering up Brett Favre and his magical game winning throw in… gulp… Minnesota.

Monday Obits
Kansas City Chiefs. Scott Pioli and Todd Haley are making many friends in KC these days. If you don’t believe me, read Jason Whitlock’s complete undressing of the dynamic duo from the Kansas City Star. Needless to say, the “Chefs” (remember that Snickers commercial) have no business competing with the Ravens, Jets, and Colts of the AFC.

The Deceased: Oakland Raiders, Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs

Debo’s Xs & Os
I give up. Next week.

The Weekend Menu
Not surprisingly, the game of the week involves a certain veteran quarterback facing his team of yesteryear under a Minnesota dome. Brett Favre faces his old Packer teammates for the first time since the retirement drama spun wildly out of control 18 long months ago.
And since we’ve already enjoyed brats this fall, we’ll try a Minnesota pork chop recipe. To make this easier on both of us, I’ll just use a link this time. It’s a simple recipe, and it sounds pretty good… even if it is from Minnesota.

For beer, nothing goes better with Minnesota than good American Miller Brewing Co beer. In this case, treat yourself to the Champagne of Beers, Miller High Life.

Don’t forget to send your comments, emails, and gripes. And enjoy your football and enjoy it often!

Power Playoff Wednesday - September 24, 2009

NCAA Power Rankings
A big week with a lot of action: highly ranked teams crumbling in stupefying upsets, invincible squads looking rather mortal, and teams splashing unto the national spotlight. I had thoughts of hitting the reset button and making these rankings as if there were preseason expectations. In the end, I decided it’s a long season and looking great in week three doesn’t win anybody a national title.
A couple of notes…. You might have noticed a few trends. While I don’t punish right away for weak scheduling, the axe is looming should a team stumble (Penn St, Ole Miss). Additionally, I try to emphasize what teams have done… not what I think they’ll do. For example, if LSU played Boise State tomorrow, I’m picking the Tigers. But Boise has done more to merit a ranking than LSU. LSU still has its chance to prove its mettle with a SEC conference schedule. If they’re a better team than Boise, they’ll certainly have an opportunity to show it.
1. Florida Gators, 3-0, [LW – 1]
Now, Urban and Lane are bickering over whether the Vols tried to win the game or just keep it close. I this is a very heated rivalry, but this is getting a little silly children. And besides, we’ve got more football to play.
2. Texas Longhorns, 3-0, [LW – 2]
If I hear crap about one more football player "braving the swine flu," I’m gonna puke. Honestly, what college student doesn’t have the flu? The next time I strike out with a cute girl at the bar, I’m coming back with, "Well, I’ve got a touch of the flu, so I’m doing good just be out here."
3. Alabama Crimson Tide, 3-0 [LW – 3]
Finally, actual football is actually being played. Bama and Arkansas will meet this weekend in what should be an interesting test for Bama’s defense and Ryan Mallett’s arm.
4. Miami Hurricanes, 2-0, [LW – NR]
Another big game for young Jacory Harris. A chance for Tyrod Taylor to live up to the hype for a change. I think the ‘Canes will roll, setting up a colossal showdown with the Sooners.
5. California Bears, 3-0, [LW – 8]
The Bears make a trip to Oregon before they have a chance at a knock-out punch against USC. Everyone expects Jahvid Best to run wild on a down and out Oregon team. What’s that I smell? A TRAP GAME you say!?
6. Boise State Broncos, 3-0, [LW – 6]
The Broncos keep muddling along through a powder puff schedule. Even the slightest misstep could cause BCS disaster for Boise.
7. Ole Miss Rebels, 2-0, [LW – 7]
A primetime match-up + SEC opponent + big opportunity = big pressure. Will the Rebs come out firing? Or is it time to bust a Nutt afterall? Eitherway, this game will mean big movement for Rebels on this humble blog.
8. Penn State Nittany Lions, 3-0, [LW – 8]
Revenge game in Happy Valley. JoePa has another chance to run up the score. But this time its against the team that cost him a national title shot in 2008.
9. LSU Tigers, 3-0, [LW – 9]
I really can’t figure these guys out. That road win against Washington looks better and better. But they let Vandy hang around. I know this team is young and will develop more as we get closer to November, but the clock is ticking. After a trip to Miss State, the Tigers are looking at games @ Georgia, vs. Florida, and vs. Auburn. Gulp…
10. USC Trojans, 2-1, [LW – 5]
Matt Barkley is healthy again. Pete Carroll said he pinky swears. Well, he better be right. Now I understand why a true freshman got the preseason nod over Aaron Corp.
11. Ohio State Buckeyes, 2-1, [LW – 10]
If Ohio State has any hopes of a national title run, they’ll have to run the table and do it with style. They start off with a pesky Illinois team that can make their season, by defending their home field against the Buckeyes.
12. Oklahoma Sooners 2-1, [LW – 13]
The Sooners get a week off before traveling to Miami. Is it at all possible for Sam Bradford to make the trip next week? Please?
13. Virginia Tech Hokies 2-1, [LW – 12]
Who am I kidding? Did you watch the Nebraska game last week? There’s no way the ‘Canes let T-Mobile run around, make a sandwich, and then throw a game winner. The Hokies are gonna get creamed.
14. Cincinnati Bearcats, 3-0, [LW – NR]
The Bearcats are putting up some astronomical offensive numbers in Brian Kelly’s hurry-up no huddle. And I guess I have to at least one Big East team… right?

NFL Power Playoff Rankings
1. New York Giants – NFC East, [LW – 2]
Did Eli go to Peyton’s QB camp this year? He looked completely at ease moving the ball, milking the clock and setting up the game winner.
2. New Orleans Saints – NFC South, [LW – 4]
Watching the Saints offense is like seeing Godzilla taking on Tokyo. If their D can be more than a wet paper bag, watch out.
3. Baltimore Ravens – AFC North, [LW – 9]
The Ravens look very impressive. Even more impressive than the Steelers look when they win.
4. New York Jets – AFC East, [LW – NR]
Rex Ryan has the locker room drinking the Kool-Aid. The Jets sound like they can be anybody… and they played like it to.
5. Pittsburg Steelers – AFC Wild Card, [LW – 1]
Are the Steelers just an ugly football team? Ala the Giants of 2007? They muck up the game, turn it into a slugfest, and hope Big Ben has enough in the tank at the end. Seems dicey to me.
6. Atlanta Falcons – NFC Wild Card, [LW – NR]
I didn’t believe in the Falcons a month ago. Well, I’m a believer now.
7. Minnesota Vikings – NFC North, [LW – 7]
This makes me want to throw up. The Vikings have their first real test against the Niners this weekend. And then, Green Bay comes to town for Monday Night Football.
8. Green Bay Packers – NFC Wild Card, [LW – 3]
The Pack looked absolutely atrocious Sunday. But I must admit. It’s nice to have the artist formerly known as Chad Johnson back up to his old tricks.
9. San Francisco 49ers – NFC West, [LW – NR]
Frank Gore looks like he has that old school, retard strength. I wouldn’t want him doing my taxes, but toting the rock? Sounds good to me.
10. Indianapolis Colts – AFC South, [LW – 8]
I can’t decide if the Monday comeback is impressive or depressing. I know Peyton may not want to, but he’d better thank his defense for surviving a long Miami night.
11. Tennessee Titans – AFC Wild Card, [LW – 6]
The Titans need answers fast. Playing the Jets in an 0-2 hole is not one of them.
12. San Diego Chargers – AFC West, [LW – 11]
Somebody has to win the AFC West, right? If the Chargers don’t want to, the Broncos may be the team to do it. San Diego is just too banged up to beat anybody. And the Broncos may have so much karma on their side from the Cutler debacle it may not matter. Look out SD, you’re on notice.

Cubicle QB - September 23, 2009

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda…
While watching the Tennessee-Florida game this weekend, I sent a text to a close friend: “It must be hard calling plays with Crompton at the helm.” And he replied, “Seriously, you have to throw at least half the passing plays out of the playbook.”
Over the course of the next couple of days, I did some thinking and looked back over my game notes. We couldn’t have been more right. Check this out: The Vols called a whopping 22 passing plays Saturday. Crompton threw the ball 19 times, six of those on Tennessee’s last ditch effort to score. Take a look at the break down:

Play.................Frequency...........Total Result
Sack..........................1.........................-2 yards
Scramble.....................2........................8 yards
Incompletion...............6........................0 yards
WR Completion.............3........................32 yards
RB/TE Completion.........8........................61 yards
Throws of 20+ yards.....2........................Interception

Outside of the last drive, Crompton had one completion to a WR for 17 yards. One. What does this tell us? The Vols should start using Bryce Brown and Montario Hardesty in the passing game even more.
Use a base set with Hardesty, Brown, one WR, one TE, and one FB. The Vols can line up three wide, four wide, tight end wing, three RB backfields, shotgun wing, shotgun spread, pro-set, etc, etc. All with the same personnel. And Kiffin should start using Brown and Hardesty in the slot, as a wing, as a out wide. Run WR screens, jailbreak screens, play action screens all using the two runningbacks.
It was obvious Saturday that Brown and Hardesty are the two playmakers for this team. But without a legitimate passing attack, defenses will continue to crowd and overcrowd the box further shrinking running lanes. Crompton can complete the short passes. Brown and Hardesty can do some damage in the open field. Using them in the short passing game will spread out the defense, open running lanes, and give the Vols’ playmakers more touches all at the same time.

Call of the Week
I’m adding a new section! I don’t know how well this will work, but after listening to Gus Johnson explode after the Stokely miracle last week, this seems like it could be fun. Each week, I’ll scour the games for the most exciting announcer of the week and include a link to that play. This week? Sean McDonough pulls his best Gus Johnson impersonation in VaTech’s improbable comeback against the Black Shirts of Nebraska.

Monday Obits
Cleveland Browns. The Brownies look to be in complete disarray right now. Some Clevelanders are already calling for Brady Quinn’s head. Scoring only 26 points in two games while giving up over 60 can lead to these kind of problems. After Adrian Peterson embarrassed the Browns in week one, the Broncos continued the party, keeping the Browns scoreless for the final three quarters Sunday. If the Browns keep this up, the dog pound will be full… but not with rabid fans.

The Deceased: Oakland Raiders, Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns

Debo’s Xs & Os
While discussing the Vols woeful offense, I mentioned “jailbreak screens.” And if you caught the end of the Colts-Fins’ Monday night thriller, you saw rookie speedster Pierre Garcon run one to perfection for the winning score. The jailbreak is a favorite play of mine, and you can see its success at almost any level of football – from middle school to the NFL. And it’s our focus in this week’s Xs & Os.
The jailbreak screen is a bit of a hybrid. It is a wide receiver screen; but as in running back screens, linemen move downfield to create a convoy of blockers for the ball carrier. The basic formation used is twins opposite a tightend or split end.
Here’s another tidbit that will make this explanation easier for both of us. A flanker (or slot) is a receiver that lines up “off the ball,’ or one yard behind the line of scrimmage, and is conventionally deemed the Z receiver. A split end (or wide out) is a receiver that lines up “on the ball,” or even with the line of scrimmage, and is deemed the X receiver.
Here, you see the Z (inside) receiver block the DB covering X. X takes a false step forward and then retreats directly back to the QB. The QB will fade back inviting defensive linemen to chase him and deliver the ball to X.
Menawhile the linemen, will chip (block and then release) the interior defensive linemen and release downfield. Once X catches the ball, he should run up and to the middle of the field. As linemen make their blocks, he may need to cross the field entirely or bend back to the play side numbers. If blocked correctly, there should be daylight for X to find.
A key to breaking the big one is often blocking the backside safety; it can mean the difference between first down and touchdown. This is often the backside receiver or tight end. In this diagram, the backside slot should release to the inside and go headhunting for the safety.
We call it a jailbreak screen because the ball carrier runs back into the teeth of the defense and follows his blockers to daylight – often resembling a frenzied jailbreak.

The Weekend Menu
Watch out for Miami streaking up those power rankings! Over the next two weeks, they have a BIG chance to impress – going to VaTech and then hosting a resurgent Oklahoma. If they keep this up, they may enjoy back-to-back appearances on the Weekend Menu. But this week our focus is the upset minded Hokies. Wedding Crashers had it all wrong: CRABCAKES and football! That’s what Virginia does!!

Virginia Crab Cakes and Red Pepper Sauce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Dash pepper
• 1 pound lump crabmeat, cartilage removed
• 4 French bread, crust removed
• RED PEPPER SAUCE:
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons minced shallots
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Lemon wedges
Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients; stir in crab. In a food processor or blender, process bread slices, a few at a time, until fine crumbs form (total volume should be 2-1/2 cups). Add 1 cup to the crab mixture; mix well.
2. Shape 1/4 cupfuls of crab mixture into patties. Coat both sides of patties with remaining bread crumbs, pressing to adhere. Place on a baking sheet; cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
3. Meanwhile, for sauce, in a blender of food processor, combine the red pepper, onions, mustard, mayonnaise, shallots, parsley, honey, lemon juice, salt and pepper; cover and process until finely chopped. Refrigerate until serving.
4. In a large skillet, melt half of butter and half of oil. Place half of the crab cakes in skillet. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes on each side or until lightly browned (carefully turn the delicate cakes over). Repeat with remaining butter, oil and crab cakes. Serve with sauce and lemon wedges.

Finding a beer for crab cakes wasn’t as easy as BBQ, but I’ve got the perfect pairing: Spaten Premium Lager. With a golden color and a well-balanced hop-flavor, Spaten has a great crisp finish to polish off any crab cake. Let’s hope Jacory Harris and Tyrod Taylor and match this meal with a QB pairing of their own.
Don’t forget to send your comments, emails, and gripes. And enjoy your football and enjoy it often!

Power Playoff Wednesday - September 17, 2009

NCAA Power Rankings
1. Florida Gators, 2-0 [LW – 1]
Can Tim Tebow hang half a hundred on Rocky Top? Not if Eric Berry has anything to say about it. A 28 ½ point spread to open the week… Wow. The Tennessee-Western Kentucky spread was only 30 at kickoff. Oh, there’s already a quarterback controversy on Rock Top. Look out, Smokey.
2. Texas Longhorns, 2-0 [LW – 2]
Texas had shaky first half in Wyoming. I don’t think Taylor Potts and Texas Tech will give them that luxury. The Red Raiders are a high scoring offense facing a 17 ½ spread. Now, I’m not calling for an outright upset, but you gotta figure Tech will score thirty. Can Texas really put up a fifty spot?
3. Alabama Crimson Tide, 2-0 [LW – 4]
Northern Texas!? Yawn, is it time for conference play yet?
4. USC Trojans, 2-0 [LW – 4]
I know, I know. No bump for beating a top ten opponent? Well, it was Ohio State, and the Trojans looked pretty shaky at times. Bama looked better when they beat top ten VaTech.
5. BYU Cougars, 2-0 [LW – 5]
The Cougars managed to show up despite the obviously “after upset letdown” potential. Now they can prepare for another match with the big boys: Florida State. If Florida State remembers to pack their offense, we could have an interesting football game.
6. Boise State Broncos, 2-0 [LW – 7]
Boise State didn’t look so dominant the week after Oregon. They have a light schedule by all accounts and will have to impress to keep their BCS hopes alive. Next up: Pat Hill and feisty Fresno State.
7. Ole Miss Rebels, 1-0 [LW – 8]
A week off came a great time. Dexter McCluster had the flu. Greg Hardy was still little beat up. And the Rebs seemed to have slipped out of the national spot light. I think that’s a good thing: it never hurts to have a little distance between Houston Nutt and hype.
8. California Bears, 2-0 [LW – 9]
I seriously thought shuffling the Cal and Penn St, but neither team has played anybody yet and we really don’t know anything. So I figured what the hey… why miss out on a chance to piss off the Big Ten!?
9. Penn State Nittany Lions, 2-0 [LW – 10]
All joking aside, the JoePa’s boys looked absolutely dominant playing the Duke basketball B-team.
10. LSU Tigers, 2-0 [LW – 11]
LSU beat Vandy by two touchdowns. But it felt a lot closer… especially for a night game in Death Valley. The Tigers look light years away from the SEC elite.
11. Ohio State, 1-1 [LW – 12]
Woah! The Buckeyes lose… at home… and STILL move up!? To be honest, they looked good against what many consider to be one of the three most talented teams in the country. They looked better than the next three teams on this list, too.
12. Virginia Tech, 1-1 [LW – 13]
The Hokies bounced back strong by pummeling Marshall. I wish Marshall would make a cold medicine or a hangover cure. “Had a long night, but I took a couple of Marshalls and I’m back on my feet!”
13. Oklahoma Sooners, 1-1 [LW – 14]
Looks like the offense still works. The Sooner proved that Idaho St is no BYU with a 64-0 beat down.
14. Georgia Tech, 2-0 [LW – NR]
Maybe a primetime thriller was just what Tech needed to get on everybody’s radar. Watch out for this team. They could make a slow and steady rise in these rankings.

NFL Power Playoff Rankings
1. Pittsburgh Steelers – AFC North
Big overtime win for the Steel City. But another suspect performance from that offensive line. The Steelers haven’t been a running team for two years now.
2. New York Giants – NFC East
The Giants looked like the same physical team from late 2007 and early 2008. Can they stay upright for twenty more weeks? With the depth they have at every line position, it looks possible.
3. Green Bay Packers – NFC North
It was nice to see the Pack close a game for a change. The defensive scheme seems to be working… just ask Gay Cutler (not a typo). But this team still needs to grow in order satisfy cheesehead expectations.
4. New Orleans Saints – NFC South
Drew Brees + Lions = FANTASY!! Sheesh… Brees embarrassed the entire state of Michigan. But let’s see that defense play an all male football team.
5. New England Patriots - AFC East
The Pats sucked the life out of Buffalo with vintage Brady fourth quarter comeback, to be sure. But that defense looks lost without Jerrod Mayo. And Brady looked absolutely terrified to test that knee.
6. Tennessee Titans – AFC South
Tough, tough loss. Not sure why the Titans D called off the dogs late in the fourth quarter. You have wonder whether the Titans would have crumbled in Three Rivers if Jim Schwartz is still their defensive coordinator.
7. Minnesota Vikings – NFC Wild Card
The Vikings looked strong on opening weekend, flexing their muscles with AP and rookie Percy Harvin. But they were still playing the Browns. And we’ve yet to see how Favre will fare with the game on the line.
8. Indianapolis Colts – AFC Wild Card
Just another day in the life of a Colt. Injuries, close game, Peyton Manning pulls out yet another close win.
9. Baltimore Ravens – AFC Wild Card
Great come-from-behind win… but against the Chiefs without newly minted franchise quarterback Matt Cassel? Ooof. The Ravens defense has a little work to do before they look like the terrifying unit we’ve come to know.
10. Philadelphia Eagles – NFC Wild Card
Surprise, surprise… Donovan is questionable with a cracked rib. And so a quarterback controversy looms in the future. But not for the number one spot. If Kolb struggles and Garcia comes in to clean up, who loses their roster spot?
11. San Diego Chargers – AFC West
Before we all get too surprised to see the Chargers struggle against the bottom-feeding Raiders, remember their 4-8 start from last year. Remember that it takes another year to fully recover from a knee injury like Shawn Merriman suffered. Oh, and their coach? That’s right, it’s still Norv Turner.
12. Seattle Seahawks – NFC West
Beating up on the Rams is becoming a labor of love for this down and out division.

Cubicle QB - September 14, 2009

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda…
John Fox shoulda known better. And he should be calling Jeff Garcia right now. I can’t believe he staked the Panthers’ playoff hopes on the right arm of Jake Delhomme. I haven’t heard one person (and especially not Carolina fans) that had any confidence Jake the Snake could bounce back from crapping the bed against Arizona in the playoffs. Look at it this way:

Imagine you’re college. You know a girl who’s pretty attractive and a whole of fun. But she caught her boyfriend making out with another girl at a bar last spring. She snapped. She caused a scene – cursing, throwing things, threatening bodily harm, and eventually getting thrown out.

Now, she’s back for the fall semester. She’s still got her summer tan, she’s lost some weight, and hasn’t mentioned her ex once. She looks good, and you had a great time at big party a few years ago. You wanna ask her out, but you don’t wanna be the first guy to take back to that bar again – especially if you run into her ex.

And you damn sure don’t wanna stake your semester of parties and casual make-outs on her alone. You’d better keep that party girl in your back pocket: you know the one that’s always up for fun, but has pretty much been to a formal with everyone else already (Jeff Garcia)… or even that six year senior who used to be the homecoming queen (Brett Favre)… or why not take a chance on a cute freshman that nobody else has discovered yet (a third round draft pick). Anything’s better than staking your senior year to someone who could be a headcase waiting to explode. You can spend your fall hoping she doesn’t crack, or you can find a back up plan… soon.

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda… Part II
If I’m CBS, Gus Johnson works every big game… no matter what. Jim Nance can stick to golf and his Augusta National poetry. Did you catch the end of the Denver-Cincinnati game? Gus Johnson may very well have had a near coronary on Brandon Stokely’s miracle touchdown. If you missed it check it out. Now that’s what football is supposed to sound like!!

Monday Obits
Another one bites the dust. It’s not rocket science, but Detroit is not close to being playoff ready. The Lions will get more wins than last year, but too many more. Their playoff hopes are dead.

The Deceased: Oakland Raiders, Detroit Lions

Debo’s Xs & Os
Michigan’s spread option. It’s actually very simple, as evidenced by Tate Forcier’s quick mastery of it. Here, we’ll focus on their base set and most commonly used play. It goes by many names: the stretch option, the spread read, the read option, the zone option, etc, etc.

The basic formation is shotgun ace (single back, set to either side of the QB, with twin WR each side). In this play, the defensive end is left unblocked for the QB to read. The QB begins the play sticking the ball in the RB’s gut for a handoff. If the end runs up the field at all, the QB should hand the ball off. If the end collapses on the runningback, he pulls the ball to run it himself. The line will block at the point of attack exactly the same regardless of where the ball ends up. Essentially, each lineman has rules that determine who he should block based on how the defense lines up. Each lineman is responsible for a “zone” and blocks whoever lines up in that zone.

Rich Rod has added an extra wrinkle at West Virginia and Michigan. The read-side (the same side as the read defensive end) receivers are available for a quick screen on each play. The inside receiver will block the corner lined up over the outside receiver and the outside receiver will step toward the QB ready to catch a quick screen. In this case, if the QB keeps the ball, he can run it or throw a quick pass to his WR. Because the screen happens so quickly, linemen don’t have an opportunity to get down field before the ball is thrown (avoiding a penalty).

Ideally, the offense forces defenders to make decisions, and the QB always has an open option if he makes the correct read.

The Weekend Menu
This weekend’s game is rematch of last year’s thrilling upset in Lubbock. This time the Red Raiders will travel to Austin to meet the Longhorns. Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree may be gone, but Mike Leach has reloaded his offense, and it’s running on all cylinders. Texas Tech QB Taylor Potts went off seven touchdowns against Rice last week. Colt McCoy still has Heisman and BCS title game hopes. This should be a true Texas shoot out!

For this match up, we’re serving up Texas BBQ spare ribs:

4 lb spare ribs, cut
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup catsup
¼ soy sauce
1 teaspoon dry mustard
½ cup chili sauce
¼ cup dark rum
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, crushed
Pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients and marinate ribs for 1 hour. Remove ribs from marinade and grill over medium coals for 30-40 minutes turning and basting occasionally.

These spare ribs go great with baked beans, mac n’ cheese, or your favorite BBQ side dish. And you can wash it down with Texas’ own Shiner Blonde. Blonde is made with the same original recipe that began the Shiner brewery. With a distinctive taste and a smooth, crisp finish, an ice cold Blonde is the right lager wash down this in-state battle.

Don’t forget to send your comments, emails, and gripes. And enjoy your football and enjoy it often!

Power Playoff Wednesday - September 10, 2009

NCAA Power Rankings
One weekend in the books, two huge upsets, and a few close scares. Let’s see how the college boys stack up.

1. Florida Gators, 1-0
Not much has changed. There were no surprises in Florida’s romp over the vaunted Buccaneers of the Big South Conference.
2. Texas Longhorns, 1-0
Like Florida, the Longhorns battled… er, walloped a preseason match up with Louisiana-Monroe.
3. Alabama Crimson Tide, 1-0
Ah, a real football game. Despite the relatively close score, Bama dominated upfront in the annual ACC Shamefest.
4. USC Trojans, 1-0
While they were playing San Jose State, USC showed a powerful running game and a true freshman quarterback they can count on. Oh, and the defense was bad either, giving up only 3 points.
5. BYU Cougars, 1-0
Making a debut in the power rankings at #5 is your reward for toppling a top ranked team with national title aspirations.
6. Oklahoma State Cowboys, 1-0
It looks like I may have been wrong about these Cowboys. After an impressive showing against a talented but inexperienced Georgia squad, OSU can look forward to a shoot out in Houston.
7. Boise State Broncos, 1-0
The Bronco absolutely embarrassed Oregon in the game Thursday. Apparently, Mr. Blount hadn’t had enough and proceeded to embarrass himself immediately after the game.
8. Ole Miss Rebels, 1-0
Beating Memphis is no super human feat, but it is a good start. Now, get ready for real football in the SEC.
9. California Bears, 1-0
After stomping Maryland, Cal has a chance at déjà vu as they meet Eastern Washington.
10. Penn State Nittany Lions, 1-0
Penn State looked absolutely filthy pounding Akron, but I’d still like to see something against a real football team.
11. LSU Tigers, 1-0
LSU logged a nice victory on a long road trip at Washington, but giving up 477 yards of total offense is a bit frightening.
12. Ohio State Buckeyes, 1-0
After six months of preparation, the Buckeyes could still only barely stop Navy’s triple option threat.
13. Virginia Tech Hokies, 0-1
Losing to Alabama is nothing to be ashamed of. Just don’t let anything like that happen against an ACC foe.
14. Oklahoma Sooners, 0-1
Yes, they took an ugly upset and huge blow to their national title hopes. But the Big 12 title is still in sight.

NFL Playoff Predictions
Since there have been no games played, there are no changes to the NFL rankings.

1. Pittsburg Steelers – AFC North
2. New England Patriots – AFC East
3. Green Bay Packers – NFC North
4. New Orleans Saints – NFC South
5. Philadelphia Eagles – NFC East
6. Baltimore Ravens – AFC Wild Card
7. San Diego Chargers – AFC West
8. Minnesota Vikings – NFC Wild Card
9. Tennessee Titans – AFC South
10. New York Giants – NFC Wild Card
11. Indianapolis Colts – AFC Wild Card
12. Arizona Cardinals – NFC West

Cubicle QB - September 10, 2009

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda
If I were a Division I head coach, I would spend at least 60 percent of my recruiting efforts on landing top tier offensive and defensive linemen. After watching the first weekend of college football, that seems to be the glaring difference between the BCS elite and the also-rans… regardless of conference. Take a look at these examples:
- Ole Miss vs. Memphis – Don’t let the final score fool you. Memphis was in this football game up until the last half of the fourth quarter. And it was at that late stage of the game, when you could see the difference between SEC talent and C-USA scrubs. Memphis has the skill players, both on offense and in the defensive backfield, to compete with Ole Miss for sixty minutes. But they don’t have the depth in their defensive front to stuff Dexter McCluster and pressure Jevan Snead late in a game. That was the difference in Sunday’s Dixieland debacle.
- Alabama vs. Va Tech – All of Bama’s questions regarding the 2009 season revolved around whether the offense could score just enough points to give the Tide’s vaunted defense breathing room. Well, it certainly seems they can with a punishing running attack and an absolutely huge offensive line. Again, Va Tech was able to hang around, but not for a full sixty minutes. And here’s why: Bama will rotate up to nine guys in their defensive front, slamming wave after wave of bodies against opponents’ offensive lines. Teams like Va Tech may only have six or seven players rotating in the D-line. Those extra few players are the difference. In the fourth quarter, Bama began to dominate the running game while the Hokies caved in.
- Oklahoma vs. BYU – Forget the Sam Bradford injury. BYU played with confidence even with him in the game. They brought a varied, almost erratic, blitzing attack that confused and flustered a young offensive line. Oklahoma lost four starters from their O-line, but they still have talent filling those holes. What they don’t have is the ability to make adjustments and pick up blitzes like an cohesive, experienced unit (read BYU’s offensive line).

What can we learn from these games? Recruit offensive and defensive linemen, recruit them often, and place a high priority coaching and continuity. The opening weekend shined a bright, bright light on the big, often-ignored hog-wallies.

Monday Obits
We’ll wait for a week of actual football before we kill off more dreams.

Debo’s Xs & Os
In honor of the Titans-Steelers matchup on Thursday, we’ll discus the details of Dick LeBeau’s “Zone Blitz.” Most conventional blitzes leave corners and safeties in man coverage. As the name implies, a zone blitz brings at least five pass rushers and leave the remaining six defenders in zone coverage. Why is this advantageous?
First, when corners and safeties are man coverage behind a blitz, they are often forced into press coverage. Press coverage disrupts routes at the line of scrimmage and prevents QBs from taking advantage of hot routes, but it puts defenders at risk of getting beat deep. Using zone coverage allows defenders to give cushion to receivers and prevent the big play. Also, zone defenders are all watching the ball and can gang tackle hot routes. Man-to-man coverage limits gang-tackling because each defender is focused on his individual man.
Second, zone coverage tends to hold receivers in coverage longer, giving pass rushers more time to get to the ball. The rule of thumb is that man coverage can always be beat if receivers have the time to use picks to shed their cover men.
Pittsburgh was the first team to regularly use defensive linemen in coverage. Typically, a defensive end or nose guard will drop into underneath coverage and linebackers will blitz. The ideal zone blitz will drop a linemen in coverage; instead of having a backer blitz where the lineman would have been, the backer/backers will overload a single gap or side of the line – essentially placing more blitzers at the point of attack than can possibly be blocked. Additionally, since zone coverage can hold a smidge longer, it allows blitzers to twist and bring delayed pressure.
So there you have it, drop a lineman into the flat, twist your backers over the opposite tackle, hold zone coverage for a couple of seconds, and enjoy a third down sack.

The Weekend Menu
A new section of Cubicle QB! Here I’ll highlight a game of the week with a recipe and beverage of choice. This week: Chicago at Green Bay. It’s time renew an age old rivalry with an exciting battle of young quarterbacks. And what else to pair with this prime time battle, but a great Wisconsin brat!?
Grab your favorite brat of choice. I prefer Johnsonville beer brats. Grill slowly over medium heat, turning often (and carefully).

For a topping, I love a great beer sauce:
2-14.5 ounce cans diced stewed tomatoes
2 bottles or cans beer
1 large onion, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon brown sugar

Combine ingredients in a sauce pan and bring to a simmer. You can also keep the brats warm in the sauce until ready to serve. Serve your brat on a toasted wheat hoagie topped with a generous portion of your beer sauce and hand-shredded pepper jack or provolone cheese.

A piping hot brat goes great with ice cold Leinenkugel’s Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest is a traditional, balanced lager with a hint of caramel.

Don’t forget to send your comments, emails, and gripes. Enjoy kick-off weekend!

Power Playoff Wednesday - September 3, 2009

What’s a Power Playoff, you say? It’s what I call college football power rankings and NFL playoff predictions rolled into one wonderful column! But wait it's Thursday!? I know, I know. Grandma and Grandpa came to town, and I took them out to eat last night. That's right... grandparents are more important than football even for me!

NCAA Power Rankings
I’ll limit my rankings only to the top 14 since that’s the threshold for BCS Bowl eligibility.
1. Florida Gators
Surprise!! As much as it pains me to admit it, Florida is far and away the most talented, deepest, and most experienced team in college football this year. They won’t go undefeated, however. Not even Jesus… uh, I mean Superman… er, Tim Tebow can escape the SEC unscathed.
2. Texas Longhorns
Colt McCoy has an ax to grind. He missed out on both the Heisman and national title because of a tie-breaker. Something tells me he won’t leave either to chance in 2009. He brought the Longhorns to the brink last year without much help on offense. Imagine what he’ll do with a running game in 2009.
3. USC Trojans
A true freshman QB leading a preseason top five team? You betcha. These Trojans may not be as familiar as Carson, Matt, and Reggie; but they certainly have the Trojan talent of their predecessors. And check out the schedule: Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Cal make up USC’s toughest tests… Do you honestly think that scares anybody in SoCal, even the true freshmen?
4. Oklahoma Sooners
The Sooners have loads of talent at the skill positions, but only one returning starter at offensive line. That’s just enough for them to slip to the bottom of the top tier of these rankings.
5. LSU Tigers
This is where things get a little interesting. Since this is the preseason, even the power rankings are a little predictive. I’ve got LSU coming out of the SEC West, and I expect Bama to edge a banged up VaTech squad in Atlanta this weekend. I can’t stomach putting a one or two loss Ohio State team above a one or two loss SEC team. So while I’m not wild about it, Les Miles wins the five spot by default.
6. Alabama Crimson Tide
In my eyes, the most interesting race in college football is the second SEC BCS bowl slot. If Florida holds their end of the bargain and goes to the championship game, we may see a free-for-all for Sugar Bowl tickets. Bama, LSU, Ole Miss, and Georgia all have a shot.
7. Ohio State Buckeyes
While the Buckeyes will lose to USC this year, they won’t be throttled… At least not until their Rose Bowl rematch. Penn St is getting some preseason hype, but they’re too young and are still a year away. The Buckeyes are getting closer to the rest of the Big Ten pack, but they’ll enjoy one more year on top of the pile.
8. Ole Miss Rebels
Locally, Ole Miss fans are calling anything short of a trip to Atlanta a disappointment. I’m calling their ideas of reality a disappointment.
9. Virginia Tech Hokies
Losing your lead runningback before the first kickoff hurts, but it doesn’t change the hogs that were blocking for him in the first place. The Hokies will lose something along with their leading rusher, but someone will fill that void before October. Now if Tyrod can just play like a real quarterback….
10. Georgia Bulldogs
Call me an SEC homer, but the league is deep. And the Bulldogs have dark horse written all over them. If you don’t believe me, check out how they fared with an unproven QB and deep, deep roster in 2005.
11. Oklahoma State
This weekend’s match-up in Stillwater is that close. And I don’t know if I can really hurt either team if they lose a well played game. But we’ll only know the answer to that question next week.
12. California Bears
The Bears are on the outside looking in on most preseason polls, but bettor beware. They get USC at home early in the year. A close game or even an upset will put them in great position to run the table.
13. Penn State Nittany Lions
I don’t think JoePa will catch the spark he did last year, but his Lions won’t be all that bad. Scary for the Big Ten, but you could argue this is a rebuilding year.
14. Boise State Broncos
Boise State’s season is on the line before Labor Day as they welcome Oregon and their metro-sexual uniforms. But don’t worry, Oregon is vastly over-rated and the Broncos can coast to another BCS-busting romp in the Fiesta Bowl. (We hope.)

NFL Playoff Predictions
Here you’ll get my playoff predictions in a power rankings form. WTF!? You’ll see what I mean. But I’ll give you more details next week. It’s a college weekend.

1. Pittsburg Steelers – AFC North
2. New England Patriots – AFC East
3. Green Bay Packers – NFC North
4. New Orleans Saints – NFC South
5. Philadelphia Eagles – NFC East
6. Baltimore Ravens – AFC Wild Card
7. San Diego Chargers – AFC West
8. Minnesota Vikings – NFC Wild Card
9. Tennessee Titans – AFC South
10. New York Giants – NFC Wild Card
11. Indianapolis Colts – AFC Wild Card
12. Arizona Cardinals – NFC West