1 play away

Frustrated, I think that is the best way to describe my mood today. I hate losing I think you all know that but I especially hate losing to Notre Dame. If you haven't heard we lost Saturday to the Irish 24-21 in a game we probably should have won. I give them credit they played a good first half, and made the drive that counted, but man i'm frustrated! we were down 17-7 starting the second half, right before the end of the third quarter we drove all the way down to the goal, and one of the first plays of the 4th quarter we got the TD making it a 3 point game. It seemed like we took another blow with 6 mins to go when Joey Elliot our QB threw an interception, but our defense rose to the occasion and got a quick 3 and out and our offense went back to work. One of the best plays of the night, ND bought a great fake and Elliot found our running back wide open, and I mean he could have skipped and got in the endzone and all of Ross Ade Stadium was in a euphoric pandemonium!! Unfortunately Notre Dame still had 2 mins. We had numerous chances to stop them and win the game, and just couldn't do it. on 2nd and goal Notre Dame was stopped and they had no timeouts left, and we took one and that since has been scrutinized all over. It stopped the clock they missed on third down, and then scored on 4th and goal game set and match. A couple things the atmosphere was unbelievable! Nothing like a night game at Ross Ade against a heated rival. I am not sure but we might be the best 1-3 team in the country, I mean we should have beaten Oregon they are turning heads, we should have beaten Notre Dame, coulda shoulda woulda, tired of being that team. This week we start with a clean slate as Northwestern comes to town to open Big Ten play for homecoming. Yours truly will be back on the sidelines and I can't wait! I hope this week goes fast.

As for the guest picking, I have to brag I did really well this week and correctly picked both Houston over Tech, and TCU over Clemson go me!
Jef - 8-7
Phats- 12-3 (45-13 overall)

Weekend Observations
It wasn't a total bust at Purdue, while doing our pre-game tailgating, I caught out of the corner of my eye someone that looked like Joe Tiller(he coached us and retired this past year) EVERYONE I was with said NO WAY that's not him, but I was 100% sure it was. I recognized both he and his wife, but my friends kept saying why would he be out here tailgating in Lot R, and why would nobody be bugging me, because he was literally ALL alone. So, after making some rounds I said to Nutz, I am going back over there, and she went with I checked the back of the RV and he had a Wyoming plate, and that's where he's from I was like I KNEW IT! So I approached him and said "could I please have your picture HUGE FAN!" He was so nice and the picture turned out great, still can't believe he was tailgating like that, made me like him more.

Gary made a comment that Bama and Texas will play for the title, and I am here to say not so fast my friend. While I think Texas has a great shot at playing for the title(provided they beat Oklahoma) I don't see Alabama in the championship. UNLESS Tim Tebow is out for the season after the hit he took, if so Saban owes Kentucky some thank you flowers as morbid as that sounds. Florida is simply the best team in the country, and i'm not sure Alabama would come within 2 TD's of them.

Penn State probably wishes Iowa would rotate off their schedule. I told anyone and everyone that would listen Iowa is not only going to win the Big Ten, but be a nationally ranked team this year and nobody listened. They went into one of the toughest places to play Happy Valley, and beat the Lions squashing any National Title hopes the Lions had for the 2nd straight season. I like Ferentz he does a great job at Iowa

Boise State will either play for the National Title or be severely pissed off when the pairings come out. Who on their VERY weak schedule left to play is going to beat them? Wouldn't it be funny is Shife's alma mater Idaho beat them this year! It could happen.

So, all the tv shows are coming back for fall season what are you guys watching? I caught Flash Forward, it was really good I will definitely keep watching that. The only other new show I have watched so far is Glee, and I simply love it! I cracked up when they did push it in an earlier episode if you haven't seen the show first off watch it, second off find their performance of Push It on youtube. Amazing Race started tonight seems like it constantly delivers, it's definitely one of my favorites to watch as well. Any catch the premiere of SNL? I didn't get home in time but I read online today about the new cast member letting the F-Bomb slip, I bet she got a good talking to.

I am considering having Kristen take away my credit cards, I seem to be spending a lot lately. The latest I think though is a wise investment. I broke down and joined the Books-a-Million Millionaire Club. It was only 20 dollars and I figured I would get my money's worth before Christmas, so far I have bought 2 books ha! I can't wait to start the new James Patterson Cross book Trial! I love the Cross series.

That's all I got for ya, hope you have a great week
Phats

Boiler Up .......... Hammer Down!!

First off, I have been a bad blogger, this week has been so crazy it's not even funny. I barely had time to work let alone blog. I didn't get a chance to update the standings and what not so here they are. I had a bad week not only did my Boilers lose, but I didn't do so hot on the picks, but Travis on the other hand did great only missing two. Ironically enough he missed his Huskers, and my Boilers Here are the standings
Travis = 11-2
Phats = 9-4 (33-10 overall)

Regroup! That's the term for the week, the Boilers played flat, looked awful on defense, and didn't deserve to win last week vs a very hungry Northern Illinois team. Crazy enough we could have won the game, but like I said we didn't deserve it at all. Now we turn to a foe that shouldn't need any introduction, and our boys should be fired up to play, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish AKA the biggest most overrated program in the country year after year. I hate Notre Dame, no I hate Notre Dame with a passion. Here's what bugs me 90% of their so called fans don't even know it's located in Indiana, the other 10 cheer for ND in football and find another school for basketball, and boy are they arrogant! Do I think we have a shot not really will I pick my Boilers HELL YA! The game is an 8pm(Hell ya tailgating here we come baby) kickoff on ESPN. I love Ross Ade at night the atmosphere should be great. Has anyone else noticed that Charlie Weis and Sloth from the goonies??

Onto the picks, this weeks guest picker is a Texas Tech Red Raider fan, none other than Jef AKA Knot on the links list. I dig his blog you should definitely give it a try. Here are the picks! West Virginia is off this weekend

PRO GAME
Pittsburgh Steelers(Rocket) at Cincinnati Bengals
Jef- MMMM Smarts to lose your hippie in the secondary, doesn't it Pitts? I think Big Ben Burgermeister exorcises some demons and the defense picks it up and makes Cincy their biatch this week. Ocho will mean something else this week
PITT 37 cincinn 10

Phats- I don't follow the NFL much when I do I root for the Saints and my boy Drew Brees. I do know that Pittsburgh was picked as a preseason favorite, and they lost last week, and Cincy is not very good. Steelers won't lose 2 straight
PITTSBURGH 31 cincinnati 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE CINCINNATI 23 pittsburgh 20
Jef- D'oh
Phats- D'oh

Miami OH Redhawks at Kent State Golden Flashes(Design Goddess)
Jef- You gotta love OH, home of the oddest mascots. This is one of those games I would personally love to see. It's about the game and rivalry and guys who won't play in the Pros. FOOTBALL is what it's called for you youngesters
KENT STATE 28 miami oh 24

Phats- Miami isn't very good, Kent State isn't very good who is the lesser? Probably Miami so give me KSU in a close, plus I like DG
KENT STATE 24 miami 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE KENT STATE 29 miami 19
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

UTEP Miners at Texas Longhorns (Gary and Cheryl)
Jef- F The Longhorns!!!
TEXAS 38 utep 16

Phats- Texas has looked every bit like a title contender, and I don't see things changing this week. If this game was at UTEP(been to their stadium it's awesome) It might be closer but it's not. Texas rolls again
TEXAS 41 utep 17
EDIT FINAL SCORE TEXAS 64 utep 7
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

North Carolina Central Eagles at Duke Blue Devils(David)
Jef- What? NC Central HS??? Dang you NCAA for letting D1A teams play high schools! Rot in hell NCAA!
DUKE 24 north carolina central 3

Phats- Umm boring! Duke wins
DUKE 31 north carolina central 10
EDIT FINAL SCORE DUKE 49 north carolina central 14
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

Louisiana Lafayette Rajun Cajun at Nebraska Cornhuskers(Travis)
Jef- The Cajuns are gonna shuck that corn and throw it in with the crawdads and there is nothing you can do about it
LOUISIANA LAFAYETTE 17 nebraska 13

Phats- If the Huskers don't have a hangover with their tough loss last week, they should take care of business against the Cajuns.
NEBRASKA 35 louisiana lafayette 17
EDIT FINAL SCORE NEBRASKA 55 louisiana lafayette 0
Jef- D'oh
Phats- WOOHOO

Idaho Vandals(Shife) at Northern Illinois
Jef- Taters and Farmers, Taters and Farmers, Taters and Farmers
IDAHO 14 northern illinois 10

Phats- I saw first hand what NIU can do, but I like Shife so I shall take the Vandals. Maybe they could take a detour east and play Purdue to get another win?
IDAHO 28 northern illinois 24
EDIT FINAL SCORE IDAHO 34 northern illinois 31
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

Ohio Bobcats(Skii) at Tennessee Volunteers(Tiggy)
Jef- ANOTHER Ohio team????
TENNESSEE and their lying coach 36 ohio 0

Phats- I don't like the Vols new coach, infact I think he's a jackass. However they will win this one, and win it quite handily.
TENNESSEE 49 ohio 3
EDIT FINAL SCORE OHIO 34 tennessee 23
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

Missouri Tigers(Tsofah) at Nevada Wolfpack
Jef- I've been to Mizzou. Not impressed. I've been to Nevada the women were the pretties and you could gamble.
MIZZOU 36 nevada 14

Phats- Missouri has surprised some people with their early season play after losing so much from last year. They need as many wins as possible before starting tough Big 12 play.
MISSOURI 31 nevada 7
EDIT FINAL SCORE MISSOURI 31 nevada 21
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

Boise State Broncos(Duck) at Bowling Green Falcons
Jef- The Br unnnn kaaaaaas
BOISE STATE 18 bowling green 10

Phats- If the Broncos were going to lose it was going to be last week, they will run the table playing a weak schedule and the power conferences will be moaning when BSU goes to a BCS bowl and embarrasses themselves.
BOISE STATE 31 bowling green 17
EDIT FINAL SCORE BOISE STATE 49 bowling green 14
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

Illinois Fighting Illini(Tsofah) at Ohio State Buckeyes
Jef- The Buckeyes still one of the most annually overrated teams... Seriously
BUCKEYES 24 illini big chiefs 14

Phats- Illinois hasn't looked good at all this year, and having to play at the Shoe won't help. OSU rolls in this one
OHIO STATE 35 illinois 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE OHIO STATE 30 illinois 0
Jef- WOOHOO
Phats- WOOHOO

Texas Christian Horned Frogs at Clemson Tigers(Topolk)
Jef- Oh Lord do I have to pick this game? So much I could tell you about one of these teams. I wanted to go to Clemson when I was in high school. I have no idea why I love the way southern women talk. Times up for Patterson in the top 20.
CLEMSON 21 texas christian 20

Phats- Mark my words Clemson will go down in this one, and it will only be close because it's at Clemson. TCU will not be scared to play at Clemson and will take it to the Purple Pansy's quite often.
TEXAS CHRISTIAN 31 clemson 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE TCU 14 clemson 10
Jef- D'oh
Phats- WOOHOO

Arkansas Razorbacks at Alabama Crimson Tide(Cheryl, Gary, and Booya)
Jef- I think the Razorbacks have been sleepers since leaving the SWC. Lets all have a moment of silence for the greatest conference in History.... point made
ARKANSAS SSSSSSOOOOOOOOOEEEYYYY 14 alabama 13

Phats- I am really tempted to pick an upset here, but Alabama seems focused. Besides I need them to win to set up a great game with Ole Miss. Bama in a squeaker
ALABAMA 31 arkansas 24
EDIT FINAL SCORE ALABAMA 35 arkansas 7
Jef- D'oh
Phats- WOOHOO

BIG GAME OF THE WEEK
Iowa Hawkeyes at Penn State Nittany Lions
Jef- Team #2 overrated every year.... Penn State. When are you going to put that geriatric geezer in the home for old PSU? Joe Pa, Joe Pa, Joe Pa, Joe Pa, Joe Pa, Joe Pa, Joe Pa, Joe Pa(it just sounds cool to say)
PENN STATE 24 iowa 20

Phats- If it wasn't for Iowa PSU might have earned a spot in the championship game, but the Hawkeyes stunned them in Iowa City last year. Think this year might be revenge for the Nitts? Not many people win at Beaver Stadium, Alabama was too scared to play there this year and backed out of their contract. That should tell you something. Lions ROAR!
PENN STATE 31 iowa 17
EDIT FINAL SCORE IOWA 21 penn state 10
Jef- D'oh
Phats- D'oh

Texas Tech Red Raiders(Jef and Fuzz) At Houston Cougars
Jef- Long live the Mat-A-DOOOOOOOOORE! (I still know all the words to the alma mater)
TEXAS TECH 36 houston 15

Phats- I hope my guest picker doesn't hate me for this but I like Houston in this one. The Cougars already traveled to Oklahoma State and won and I think they are better than Tech. It doesn't help that Tech is coming off the Texas spanking.
HOUSTON 35 texas tech 31
EDIT FINAL SCORE HOUSTON 29 texas tech 28
Jef- D'oh
Phats- WOOHOO

Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Purdue Boilermakers(Phats)
Jef- Notre Dame is the third most overrated team every year
PURDUE 27 notre dame 21

Phats- I HATE NOTRE DAME, and their fat ass coach! It's time for the Boilers to show up and kick some leprechauns around. I think we have a shot to win this but we have to play 100X better than last week. It's there for the taking. Boilers in a shootout.
PURDUE 42 notre dame 38
EDIT FINAL SCORE NOTRE DAME 24 purdue 21(hell of an effort! 1 play away)
Jef- D'oh
Phats- D'oh

Hail Hail to old Purdue all Hail to our old gold and black
Hail Hail to old Purdue our friendship may she never lack
Ever Grateful, ever true thus we raise our song a new FIRE UP!
Of the days we've spent with you, all Hail our own Purdue
GO BOILERS!

BTFU!!!

Boiler Up Baby!

Well, it's week three and the Boilers are right where most people had them at 1-1 on the young season. No shame in losing to a tough Oregon team on their home field with it being a must win situation for them, and even though it was a tough 38-36 loss I think the lessons our young Boilers learned will help in the long run, and as the saying goes no use crying over spilled milk. So, lets turn our attention to week 3, and our opponent the Northern Illinois Huskies out of the MAC. I will admit I don't know much if anything about this team, other than they took Wisconsin to the wire in week one. I also remember a few years back they had a top 20 team that had a great running back but he is gone thankfully. For the Boilers to prove to everyone they are a different team they need to win this game, and not have it be close. Last year after losing a heart breaker to Oregon our season was nothing but downhill, and the few Seniors we have have vowed that won't happen this year. What I love about this year's team is a lot of things, but the heart seems to be there which I think was missing last year. Saturday you will see plenty of Ralph Bolden as he will go over 100 yards for the third straight game, and I think the Boilers will put this one away in the 3rd quarter. The game carries a noon kickoff and can be seen on the big ten network.

This week's guest picker is Travis, who is a Nebraska Cornhusker fan, if you have never read his blog before I suggest you give it a read, it's in the links under well Travis of all things. I think you'll enjoy it. When I asked Travis to guest pick this week, he issued this statement along with his picks, "Thanks to Phats for allowing me a chance to be a guest picker again this season. I think this is my third year and if the third time truly is a charm I'll get all these suckers right."

So onto the picks, Illinois is off this week.

Furman Paladins at Missouri Tigers(Tsofah)
Travis- Paladins were a 12 member band of warriors in Charlemagnes court. In football using 12 men lands you an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Wouldn't matter of Furman used 13 players.
Mizzou 63 Furman 13

Phats- Hmm interesting nickname but they still won't win Mizzou takes it
MISSOURI 55 furman 3
EDIT FINAL SCORE MISSOURI 52 furman 12
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Cal Poly Mustangs at Ohio Bobcats(Skii)
Travis- Bobcats 31 Mustangs 21

Phats- Ohio has actually not looked bad this year, challenging UConn and beating North Texas last week, i'd be pretty surprised if they didn't win this one.
OHIO 28 cal poly 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE OHIO 28 cal poly 10
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Duke Blue Devils(David) at Kansas Jayhawks
Travis- Duke versus Kansas. Is it basketball season already?
KU 24 Duke 14

Phats- Travis stole what I was going to say, this would be a great hardwood match up, unfortunately for Duke they suck at football. ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK baby
KANSAS 31 duke 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE KANSAS 44 duke 16
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Iowa State Cyclones at Kent State Golden Flashes(Design Goddess)
Travis- Iowa State is from the Big XII. Kent State the MAC. And mac goes best with cheese, not pigskin.
Cyclones 31 Golden Flashes 21

Phats- Iowa State is bad, but so is Kent State, Iowa State is in a big boy conference therefore I am taking the Cyclones, but it will be close
IOWA STATE 31 kent state 24
EDIT FINAL SCORE IOWA STATE 34 kent state 14
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

San Diego State Aztecs at Idaho Vandals(Shife)
Travis- I can't anger the Shifester.
Idaho 31 SD 30

Phats- I really hate picking against Shife, but I just don't see the Vandals winning this one. I hope they do, because trust me I know how much it sucks when your team constantly loses. I think it will be close though!
SAN DIEGO STATE 31 idaho 28
EDIT FINAL SCORE IDAHO 34 san diego state 20
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = D'oh

North Texas Mean Green at Alabama Crimson Tide(Cheryl, Gary, Booya)
Travis- As a Meatatarian I despise all things green.
Tide 54 North Texas 10

Phats- This can be summed up pretty easily, Alabama is a National Title Contender, North Texas is not, ROLL TIDE!
Alabama 49 north texas 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE ALABAMA 53 north texas 7
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Boise State Broncos(Duck) at Fresno State Bulldogs
Travis- Ironic that Duck is a Bronco's fan when duck is exactly what they D-Lineman should have done when sucker punched by that Oregon Duck RB.
Broncos 41 Bulldogs 24

Phats- This is my upset special of the week, and maybe that will get me back on Shife's good side?! I like the Bulldogs to take down Boise in a thriller, playing away from the blue turf = bad for the Broncos
FRESNO STATE 35 boise state 28 OT
EDIT FINAL SCORE BOISE STATE 51 fresno state 31
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = D'oh

Boston College Eagles at Clemson Tigers(Topolk)
Travis- Clemson 34 BC 24

Phats- I think this game is going to be a lot closer than people think, BC is a proud football program and definitely won't be intimidated playing at Clemson. That being said I still like the Tigers in this one.
CLEMSON 35 boston college 31
EDIT FINAL SCORE CLEMSON 25 boston college 7
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = D'oh

West Virginia Mountaineers(Angel Jr) at Auburn Tigers
Travis- Auburn 28 WV 20

Phats- This is a good non conference game, WV hasn't looked very good, but they haven't really had to, Auburn has looked good and are playing at home. Advantage Tigers.
AUBURN 31 west virginia 28
EDIT FINAL SCORE AUBURN 41 west virginia 30
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Tennessee Volunteers(Tiggy) at Florida Gators
Travis- Gators 44 Vols 17

Phats- I would not want to be Tennessee come Saturday, first their coach claims they will be singing Rocky Top over and over after they beat Fla, then claims that Florida coach Urban Meyer is a cheater in the recruiting battles. Lately Tebow the Fla QB has said he doesn't like people talking about his coach. This all spells DOOM for the Vols, and a LONG day in the swamp
FLORIDA 62 tennessee 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE FLORIDA 23 tennessee 13
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Texas Tech Red Raiders(Jef & Fuzz) at Texas Longhorns(Gary & Cheryl)
Travis- Can Tech do it again? In Austin? Without Crabtree? Nope. The Horns revenge last season's only loss
UT 47 Tech 20

Phats- Mark my words on this one, Texas Tech has absolutely NO shot at beating Texas this year. They shouldn't have beaten them last year, I like the Horns early, late, and often. This will be not contest Tech doesn't have the talent they did last year. Hook Em Horns!
TEXAS 49 texas tech 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE TEXAS 34 texas tech 24
Travis = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Nebraska Cornhuskers(Travis) at Virginia Tech Hokies
Travis- Tyrod is not a name. It's a car part and the Blackshirts will unalign the Hokies QB faster than you can say pothole.
Huskers 31 VT 17

Phats- What better way for the Huskers to show the college football world they are back than by leaving Blacksburg with a W. I actually think this will be a really good game, Nebraska is definitely a contender in the Big 12, and Tech is probably the favorite in the ACC, although that's not saying much. I am going with Nebraska for two reasons, one the ACC sucks this year, and Nebraska seems to have regained their swagger.
NEBRASKA 35 virginia tech 28
EDIT FINAL SCORE VIRGINIA TECH 16 nebraska 15
Travis = D'oh
Phats = D'oh

Northern Illinois Huskies at Purdue Boilermakers(Phats)
Travis- I'm picking Purdue if for no other reason than to get invited back to pick again next year.
Boilermakers 28 Huskies 24

Phats- First off I don't want anyone to pick Purdue just for me, but it definitely determines if you are asked back or not haha! I like our chances here, I like what I have seen from this Purdue team. Ralph Bolden remember the name he's quickly becoming a star, and will continue to lead the Nation in rushing after this game. Joey Elliot will make it through a whole game without throwing an interception and the Boilers will pull away in the third quarter, and Ross Ade will be a happy place, and all the talk will be about kicking the shit out of the fighting leprechauns the next week! BOILER UP!
PURDUE 49 northern illinois 17
EDIT FINAL SCORE NORTHERN ILLINOIS 28 purdue 21
Travis = D'oh
Phats = D'oh

Hail Hail to old Purdue all Hail to our old gold and black
Hail Hail to old Purdue our friendship may she never lack
Ever Grateful, ever true thus we raise our song a new FIRE UP!
Of the days we've spent with you, all Hail our own Purdue
GO BOILERS!

BTFU!!!

For the second straight year the Ducks break our hearts

Lost a heartbreaker Saturday night at Oregon, 38-36, but we definitely did ourselves proud in one of the toughest stadiums to play in anywhere in the country. I just want to throw out some numbers and show you how we pretty much owned everything in this game but the scoreboard at the end, check this out.
Total Yards Purdue - 452 Oregon - 356
Time of Possession Purdue 36:19 Oregon 23:41

So what went wrong? MISTAKES! The first drive of the game our 5th year Senior QB who has never really played in his entire Purdue career threw an interception that led to the Ducks first 3 pts. Later in the game Purdue leading 14-10 Elliot threw a costly pick 6 on a ball that seemed to just glide in the air to the Oregon player. We take a 24-17 lead our defense forces a 3 and out, and a bad exchange from center to QB leads to a fumble taken in for a touchdown. Quite possibly the biggest of all getting it to 31-30 a PAT away from tying, and our kicker misses the point after.

The good? We got ourselves off the mat time and time again against a good program in a hostile environment. After giving up a score to make it 38-30 our QB led us on a 5 minute drive that resulted in a halfback pass on 4th and 12 for a TD. The two point conversion was caught, unfortunately our tight end was out of bounds, had he moved his foot 1 inch we would have gone to overtime. After all this, all these highs and lows of a game, I am more optimistic than ever. This was a Purdue team that by most was only suppose to win 3/4 games, but after watching this I am confident not only will we go to a bowl we'll get someone we're not suppose to. I love Coach Hope's enthusiasm, the enthusiasm by the team on the sidelines was great, and I think this will be nothing but a positive for the weeks to come.
As for my picks this week I went
13-3 bringing my season record to 24-6 not too shabby!

Elsewhere
So, I keep hearing the big ten is down, and yeah we are but what I find funny about this is, all the bashing that happens didn't really start happening until the Big Ten got their own network. I have often wondered if ESPN is pissed about this because they take every opportunity to bash us whenever they can. Let me say this I firmly believe we are better than the ACC, and Big East conferences. Head to head we would beat them in a challenge no doubt in my mind. While we might be down yes, at least for the most part we are winning even if the games are ugly. Unlike the ACC who has slipped vs. non D1 opponents. Also Ohio State should have beaten USC and that counts for something in my book.

Not sure who is going to beat Florida this year, I know the SEC is tough but I don't see anyone in that conference beating them, The Gators and Longhorns will be in the National Title game is my guess.

Boise State and BYU if they both finish undefeated should play each other in a BCS bowl, that won't happen, and I am not even sure if they will both finish undefeated but that would be a fun match up of the so called "Rodney Dangerfields" of football.

Just finished watching the US Open mens final, and all I can say is STUNNED, absolutely STUNNED! Roger Federer was trying to win the title for the 6th straight year vs a guy named Juan Martin Del Potro who is a 20 year from Argentina. Not only did he beat Fed, he clobbered him in the 5th and deciding set, which is usually when Roger raises his level. It was neat to see this kid show some emotion after the win. As for the womens big props to Kim Clijsters returning to the tour after giving birth to her first child and winning the US Open in her third tournament back. She has long been one of my favorites so I was happy. However, the big story was Serena Williams in the semi-final match against Kim. She went on tirade at a line judge basically saying she was going to shove a tennis ball down her throat, all because the line judge called a foot fault on her. Well she had received a code violation earlier in the match so when the line judge told the ref what was said it was a no brainer point penalty and of course it happened to be match point. I have mixed feelings on this one really so I am not going to say anymore, but I am not going to be that harsh on Serena.

It must have been the weekend for public outbursts, anyone watch the VMA's on MTV? Taylor Swift won a moon man for female video of the year, and while accepting her trophy, Kanye West gets on stage and basically takes the mic and pretty much says that Beyonce deserved it for having the best video of the year. 1. Taylor looked like she was going to cry, 2. the audience reaction of booing and cheering Taylor's name was great, and 3. Beyonce looked embarrassed. I love that people were outraged by this and should be, lets not forget Taylor Swift is still a teenager herself. The best part was later in the show when Beyonce won an award she called Taylor to the stage to finish her acceptance speech, how amazing is Beyonce! My guess is both Taylor and Beyonce won some new fans, and Kanye lost a whole lot of them.

Nothing else here just ready for the week to be over because I am excited for another Purdue home game bring on NIU!

Have a great week
Phats

Ready for a little Duck Hunting

Well, kids it's that time again, time to BTFU for another exciting Saturday of college football. After a great win over Toledo last week, the Boilers hit the road and head to Pac 10 country and the left coast to take on the sucker punching Oregon Ducks. The game is suppose to kick off at 10pm Indiana time, on Fox Sports Net. This is exciting and a great opportunity for Purdue to see where they really stand. Oregon is coming on an emotion loss to Boise State, that included a post game sucker punch that got their star running back(who went for 140 yards against us last year) suspended for the rest of the season. One of two things will happen here, we'll face a banded together Oregon that wants to prove they are better than the egg they laid at Boise, or a defeated Ducks team pissed that their star was kicked off the team will show up. My guess is the first option, anyway you slice it I see us competing well, and possibly pulling the upset out west

Onto the picks

Illinois State Redbirds at Illinois Fighting Illini(Tsofah)
Phats- Wow did the Illini play bad in the opener versus their rival Missouri who was suppose to be down this year. I would love for Illinois State to win this one since their coach is our former defensive coordinator Brock Spack, however the Redbirds have no chance here. Illini in a laugher
ILLINOIS 49 illinois state 3
EDIT FINAL SCORE ILLINOIS 45 illinois state 17
Phats = WOOHOO

Miami OH Redhawks at Boise State Broncos(Duck)
Phats- Great opener for Boise and they looked pretty impressive. I am still disappointed that their player involved in the post game skirmish wasn't suspended. This will not be a game, Boise trying to get into the BCS bowl party won't trip up here
BOISE STATE 55 miami 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE BOISE STATE 40 miami 0
Phats = WOOHOO

Florida International Golden Panthers at Alabama Crimson Tide(Gary, Chery, Booya)
Phats- Team that made the biggest statement in week one, definitely Alabama. Great win over Virginia Tech, and after taking on a big boy of college football, get their DESERVED cupcake with FIU. I know nothing of FIU except their brawl with Miami Fla a few years ago, so watch out for cheap shots, and Bama should be fine. ROLL TIDE(I did that in a southern accent)
ALABAMA 35 florida international 7
EDIT FINAL SCORE ALABAMA 40 florida international 14
Phats = WOOHOO

Bowling Green Falcons at Missouri Tigers(Tsofah)
Phats- Another team that had a great start to the 09 season, depending on how good Illinois turns out to be. I don't see this being much of a game, Tigers take it.
MISSOURI 41 bowling green 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE MISSOURI 27 bowling green 20
Phats = WOOHOO

Duke Blue Devils(David) at Army Black Knights
Phats- Poor Duke, basketball season can't get here soon enough, losing to a non Division 1 team is bad, but at least they weren't the only ACC school that did. I'm taking Army.
ARMY 31 duke 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE DUKE 35 army 19
Phats = D'oh

Rice Owls at Texas Tech Red Raiders(Jef and Fuzz)
Phats- I actually think this could be a close game, I am not sure why but I do. I am sure the teams that don't get as much press in Texas IE Rice always want to be one of the big boys, and this is their chance. Their upset bid will fall just short though.
TEXAS TECH 42 rice 35
EDIT FINAL SCORE TEXAS TECH 55 rice 10
Phats = WOOHOO

Arkansas State Red Wolves at Nebraska Cornhuskers(Travis)
Phats- Welcome back to the Top 25 and respected football programs Nebraska! You are definitely moving in the right direction. You'll get little resistance from Arkansas State, this will be over at halftime
NEBRASKA 49 arkansas state 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE NEBRASKA 38 arkansas state 9
Phats = WOOHOO

Kent State Golden Flashes(Design Goddess) at Boston College Eagles
Phats- Tough one for the Flashes, don't see the upset getting pulled here BC all the way
BOSTON COLLEGE 31 kent state 7
EDIT FINAL SCORE BOSTON COLLEGE 34 kent state 7
Phats = WOOHOO(I was close!)

East Carolina Pirates at West Virginia Mountaineers(Angel Jr)
Phats- The Mountaineers certainly weren't impressive in their opener, and it wasn't long ago this would have been a big match up. East Carolina hasn't been up to par lately, but they will push WVU but come up short
WEST VIRGINIA 31 east carolina 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE WEST VIRGINIA 35 east carolina 20
Phats = WOOHOO

Ohio Bobcats(Skii) at North Texas Mean Green
Phats- Ohio actually played really well against UConn, not sure how good the Huskies really are though. I fully expect them to come back from Texas with a nice W.
OHIO 35 north texas 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE OHIO 31 north texas 30 2OT's
Phats = WOOHOO

Texas Longhorns(Gary, and Cheryl) at Wyoming Cowboys
Phats- I'd like to see the cowboys pull this off, but I just don't see it happening, Texas has too much firepower for the pokes. Horns in romp
TEXAS 55 wyoming 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE TEXAS 41 wyoming 10
Phats = WOOHOO

Idaho Vandals(Mr Shife) at Washington Huskies
Phats- Shife informed the Vandals are 1-0 for the first time in awhile, and that's something to be excited about. He also said they could lose their next four or five, that's not exciting. Lets hope reverse psych works again as I am picking against the Vandals, I do think it will be closer than people think.
WASHINGTON 35 idaho 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE WASHINGTON 42 idaho 23
Phats = WOOHOO

Clemson Tigers(Topolk) at Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Phats- One of the better games being played this week, and with the ACC not looking so hot the winner of this might take control of the conference early on in the race. If this game were at Clemson i'd have no problems taking the Tigers, but it's not so I am taking the Jackets. Besides my cousins are Ga Tech diehard fans, and if I didn't take them they'd kill me, so STING EM!
GEORGIA TECH 31 clemson 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE GEORGIA TECH 30 clemson 27
Phats = WOOHOO

UCLA Bruins at Tennessee Volunteers(Tiggysmum)
Phats- This will be a good test for Kiffin and his first at UT. They looked pretty impressive last week in victory, but the competition steps up a notch Saturday. UCLA won't be intimidated and will stick with the Vols, but come up short of an upset.
TENNESSEE 35 ucla 31
EDIT FINAL SCORE UCLA 19 tennessee 15
Phats = D'oh

BIG GAME OF THE WEEK
Southern Cal Trojans at Ohio State Buckeyes
Phats- Look I hate the Suckeyes like most people, but it will really big big for the Big Ten to win this game. The horseshoe is a tough environment to play and win in, but USC won't be fazed, but will their Freshman quarterback? I think OSU keeps it close, but USC has too much talent.
SOUTHERN CAL 31 ohio state 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE USA 18 ohio state 15
Phats = WOOHOO

Purdue Boilermakers(Me) at Oregon Ducks
Phats- I really have no reason at all to be confident about winning this game, but you know what I feel good. Last year we should have beaten these guys no doubt about it we choked. I think this team is more focused, and Coach Hope has them believing they can win anywhere. Oregon will be tough don't get me wrong, and playing there doesn't help. It will be a close game all the way and Joey Elliot will throw for big yards and the Boilers pull away late making amends for letting one slip last year, BOILER UP!

PURDUE 38 oregon 24
EDIT FINAL SCORE OREGON 38 purdue 36 :(
Phats = D'oh

Hail Hail to old Purdue all Hail to our old gold and black
Hail Hail to old Purdue our friendship may she never lack
Ever Grateful, ever true thus we raise our song a new FIRE UP!
Of the days we've spent with you, all Hail our own Purdue
GO BOILERS!

BTFU!!!

Weekend Wrap

So another weekend has come and gone but this one was a good one because college football started HELL YA! My weekend consisted of a lot of college football, a lot of US Open tennis, and my nephew's birthday party he turned 5 today. All in all a pretty good 3 day weekend.

Lets get right to a look at the opening weekend of college football, a lot of stuff happened. First off the results from the first guest picker of the season, and I have to say for not knowing sports(or claiming not to) Bekah did EXCELLENT! She even correctly predicted the Richmond over Duke upset, although not sure that's too much of an upset. Here are the results.

Bekah 11-3(I am giving her a Purdue pick even though she didn't pick it)
Phats 11-3

Not a bad start, missed the Richmond over Duke, Bama over Va Tech, and Idaho how could I have not picked the Vandals, shife has luck on his side! So the Boilers started the year with a 52-31 thumping of the Toledo Rockets, and the nice thing is the game was never in doubt. We had 2 interceptions inside the 20 or we might have come close to scoring 70. Our QB was making his first start and didn't have a bad day at all, two of the picks he threw were tipped, one was a bad pass. The running game I think shocked everyone, we're suppose to be a pass first team but we had a runningback(also his first start) go for 234 yards, including a 78 yard run to start our scoring for the day. It was surprising because our offense was suppose to young and inexperienced and our defense was suppose to be our strength. I think what a lot of people and fans in general don't understand when you go against a team that plays an offense like Toledo they are going to score and they are going to get yards, I mean they passed 70 times you're gonna connect on some, I think the defense will get better as the season goes on. One big highlight was the end of the first half. So many Purdue fans are used to Coach Tiller taking a knee and running out the clock, but up 28-14 with 22 secs to go on Toledo's 20 Coach Hope used aggressive play calling to give us a chance at a field goal, only problem it was a 59 yarder. No problem for our Sophomore kicker he calmly nailed it, and it would have been good from 65 and it totally energized the whole stadium it was neat! Even Coach Hope was jumping up and down at center field after it. All in all a good season opener, now the fun begins as we head to Oregon to take on the ugly uniform wearing Ducks! I like our chances actually I will expand on why a little farther down.

The rest of the college football world.
Big Ups to Alabama that's a huge win. I will say this about Bama, they don't shy away from playing anyone and everyone in their non conference I like that about them. I think we'll find out more though when they get into their conference schedule as the SEC looks tough yet again. Not sure anyone will beat Tebow and the Gators.

The ACC sucks. Sorry Topolk, but man oh man what a BAD opening weekend for that conference easily the worst of the power conferences. That's part of the reason why I am reserving judgment on Alabama since the ACC looked so bad in week 1 who knows how good Va Tech really is. Look at some of these results, Virginia loses to William and Mary, Richmond takes down Duke, Baylor beats Wake Forest, and Cal killed Maryland. Not a good start for a conference that was whining for respect in the preseason.

The Big Ten some people might say it's down, some might say we got lucky in week one, but we can still say we were 10-1 in week 1! Sure IU was unimpressive as usual vs Eastern Kentucky, Ohio State had to intercept a 2 pt conversion(looking ahead perhaps) Iowa had to block a field goal TWICE(overrated a tad?) and Illinois absolutely laid an egg. I am not sure why the hype was there for the Illini, I have never bought into Juice who knows.

Finally, the ugly of opening weekend, the Boise State/Oregon game. Congrats to Boise for a big win but the post game left a lot to be desired. For those that didn't see it, a Boise player started taunting one of the star Oregon players who had talked trash most that week, when the Boise player turned away the kid from Oregon sucker punched him in the jaw. Unfortunately it didn't stop there as he tried to go at some BSU fans which is just unacceptable. The consequences the kid was suspended for the entire season, which ironically helps Purdue since we play them this weekend, and he chewed us up last year. I 100% agree with the Oregon coach and the actions he took, apparently this isn't the first altercation for this Oregon player. Where I don't agree is with Boise State taking no action against their player. This incident could have been avoided but the kid from BSU went out of his way to get the attention of the kid from Oregon, and tapped him on the shoulder even though the Oregon kid was walkin away. If I were BSU's coach i'd give his kid at least a 1 game suspension that would be fitting in my opinion, but it appears they chose to take a different path. Lets hope this is the last incident of this kind we have to see about all year, it's truly a black eye for such a wonderful sport.

Speaking of wonderful sports anyone watching the US Open?? Holy smokes was I off in my picks for the semi's at least in the womens the only one I have left is Serena. The big story has been 17 year old American Melanie Oudin. She is the youngest American to reach the quarters since Serena in 99. She's firey, feisty, and gutsy all rolled into one. She has another tough test to make it to the semi's but at this point I wouldn't bet against her. I do want to point out I was dead on that Safina would go out early, and she did. The mens side is a little more predictable not many upsets, Murray and Federer on still on course to meet in the final. Sorry Nadal lovers don't see him lasting much longer he is apparently hurting, has an abdominal injury and that's tough to play tennis with. I am rooting for Fed-Express to take his 6th straight at Flushing!

Alright this was a long post, I am going to bed! The hardest thing about having Monday off, I don't want to go back to work on Tuesday :)
Have a great SHORT week
Phats

Football season has arrived time to BTFU!

Ahh how I have missed you college football, so glad you have returned. I am very intrigued by this first game for my beloved Boilers because so much is unknown. Here's to hoping for a BIG Boilermaker victory. We play Saturday at noon vs the Toledo Rockets with the game being on the Big Ten Network. Ironically enough Toledo was the first team Joe Tiller played against in his head coaching debut at Purdue, now Coach Hope will do the same thing. That year we lost, but went on to have a 9-3 season. Lets hope for a win but great record like that year. Some teams are playing tonight I have not looked at any scores and neither has the guest picker, who the hell plays on Thursdays!? It makes it really hard on me. Although one of the best games is tonight with Boise State vs Oregon.

Guest picking this week is someone who not only has the honor of being the defending NCAA Bracket Challenge champ, but also knows me in person. It's none other than my good friend and great cook Bekah! If you haven't checked her blog out, give it a look it's under Bekah on the links.
Onto the picks if your team is not on here and you want it to be please let me know.

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at Kent State Golden Flashes(D Goddess)
Bekah- KENT STATE 35 coastal carolina 28

Phats- Hmm I didn't even know Coastal Carolina had a football program, this shouldn't be much of a game.
KENT STATE 41 coastal carolina 3
EDIT FINAL SCORE KENT STATE 18 coastal carolina 0
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Liberty Flames at West Virginia Mountaineers (Angel Jr)
Bekah- WEST VIRGINIA 21 liberty 0

Phats- What the hell? Why is WVU playing this game, this one will be over before halftime
WEST VIRGINIA 55 liberty 0
EDIT FINAL SCORE WEST VIRGINIA 33 liberty 20
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Richmond Spiders at Duke Blue Devils (David)
Bekah- RICHMOND 35 duke 14

Phats- Do you see a theme of week first week games, I guess Duke has to do whatever it can to get victories
DUKE 31 richmond 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE RICHMOND 24 duke 16(good going Bekah!!)
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = D'oh

North Dakota State Fighting Sioux at Texas Tech Red Raiders (Jef and Fuzz)
Bekah- TEXAS TECH 21 north dakota state 14

Phats- Oh how close Texas Tech was to going to the national title game, can they repeat that magic in Lubbock this year? This won't be much of a game, but bigger challenges loom
TEXAS TECH 41 north dakota 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE TEXAS TECH 38 north dakota state 13
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Florida Atlantic Owls at Nebraska Cornhuskers (Travis)
Bekah- NEBRASKA 14 florida atlantic 7

Phats- This might be the year Nebraska re-emerges as a National Power, although this is a tricky opener, Florida Atlantic is a tough team, we'll be close for 3 quarters
NEBRASKA 35 florida atlantic 20
EDIT FINAL SCORE NEBRASKA 49 florida atlantic 3
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Connecticut Huskies at Ohio Bobcats (Skii)
Bekah- OHIO 35 connecticut 14

Phats- Not a good opener for the Bobcats, the only shock is they are playing this at home. Usually the big schools won't travel to MAC schools. Won't be close Huskies will roll
CONNECTICUT 51 ohio 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE CONNECTICUT 23 ohio 16
Bekah = D'oh
Phats = WOOHOO

Idaho Vandals(Mr Shife) At New Mexico State Aggies
Bekah- NEW MEXICO STATE 28 idaho 21

Phats- Hopefully this season will get off to a good start for Shife's Vandals, and keep his good year(Heels winning, and a new baby) going. I don't know much about NMSU I know they have been to a bowl before and that's enough for me, Idaho keeps it close though
NEW MEXICO STATE 31 idaho 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE IDAHO 21 new mexico 6
Bekah = D'oh
Phats = D'oh

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Tennessee Volunteers(Tiggy)
Bekah- TENNESSEE 28 western kentucky 21

Phats- I love WKU's mascot, but that won't be enough to beat UT and the new evil empire in town in Kiffin(he's kind of an ass). Never liked UT but they will win this
TENNESSEE 35 western kentucky 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE TENNESSEE 63 western kentucky 7
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders at Clemson Tigers(Topolk)
Bekah- CLEMSON 28 middle tennessee state 21

Phats- This will be a yawner, should be over by halftime. I will admit I know nothing about MTSU but I know Clemson is a decent football team, purple pansy's take it
CLEMSON 42 middle tennessee state 7
EDIT FINAL SCORE CLEMSON 37 middle tennessee state 14
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Louisiana Monroe Warhawks at Texas Longhorns (Gary and Cheryl)
Bekah- TEXAS 42 louisiana monroe 31

Phats- Texas is a title contender, and this is just a warm up for tougher competition to come. I expect the Horns to send a msg early to other contenders. They will romp
TEXAS 55 louisiana monroe 0
EDIT FINAL SCORE TEXAS 59 louisiana monroe 20
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Missouri Tigers(Tsofah) at Illinois Fighting Illini(Tsofah)
Bekah- MISSOURI 35 illinois 21

Phats- Tsofah can't make up her mind who she likes better apparently?! Can you root for both teams in a rivalry game? This is a bragging rights game and Missouri has a little too much for Illinois, never bought into the Juice hype for the Illini
MISSOURI 42 illinois 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE MISSOURI 37 illinois 9
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Oregon Ducks at Boise State Broncos(Duck)
Bekah- BOISE STATE 28 oregon 14

Phats- This is why Boise State remains my favorite non bcs school. They always play the big boys and usually beat them. We play Oregon next week, so I am hoping BSU can repay the favor we gave them last year when we took out both their quarterbacks, a little help Boise? I am going with Boise in a slight upset in this one
BOISE STATE 35 oregon 28
EDIT FINAL SCORE BOISE STATE 19 oregon 8
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO

Alabama Crimson Tide(Gary, Cheryl, Booya) at Virginia Tech Hokies
Bekah- VIRGINIA TECH 21 alabama 7

Phats- Holy smokes what was Bama thinking scheduling this game?! The good news is you'll have all season to get back into the title chase. Hokie Hokie High!
VIRGINIA TECH 31 alabama 21
EDIT FINAL SCORE ALABAMA 34 virginia tech 24
Bekah = D'oh
Phats = D'oh

Toledo Rockets at Purdue Boilermakers (Me)
Bekah- BEKAH FORGOT THIS ONE LETS JUST SAY SHE SAID BOILER UP!

Phats- Well, here we go the start to the 09 season, and I can't wait. I am excited to see how this young untested team will fare. It has been released that Toledo's top running back will not be playing Saturday so I like that. I like our chances and I think we have a good start to the year and get some positive momentum heading into Oregon, Boilers win

PURDUE 35 toledo 14
EDIT FINAL SCORE PURDUE 52 toledo 31
Bekah = WOOHOO
Phats = WOOHOO!!! HELL YA BABY BTFU!

Hail Hail to old Purdue all Hail to our old gold and black
Hail Hail to old Purdue our friendship may she never lack
Ever Grateful, ever true thus we raise our song a new FIRE UP!
Of the days we've spent with you, all Hail our own Purdue
GO BOILERS!

BTFU!!!