Happy Thanksgiving from cidsports

May you have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving! Hopefully you can enjoy time with friends and family wherever you may be.

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peace

Week 13: Big Ten ends regular season play; Iowa smokes Minnesota 55-0 in final game in Metrodome

Week 13 is in the books... the Big Ten closed out the 2008 campaign with only seven bowl eligible this year, as opposed to ten in '07. Michigan (3-9, 2-6 Big Ten) will stay home for the holidays for the first time in 33 seasons. Also, Illinois (5-7, 3-5 Big Ten), Purdue (4-8, Big Ten) and Indiana (3-9, 1-7 Big Ten) will all remain home for the holidays, as well, after bowling last season.

The Big Ten will not be in the BCS title game after the '08 season, unlike the past two seasons, but the future looks bright. It will be interesting to see how the conference plays out the seven bowl games, yet to be determine. We know Penn State (11-1. 7-1 Big Ten) will represent the Big Ten Conference in the Rose Bowl, either vs. USC or a rematch with Oregon State.

The Big 12 South is in a three-way tie at 6-1, after OU soundly took Texas Tech down. In my book, Texas hopefully will win the tie-breaker at this point. Of course, all three have their final Big 12 game to play.

Here's cidsports' Top 25 after Week 13:

1. Florida Gators (10-1, 7-1 SEC)
2. Alabama Crimson Tide (11-0, 7-0 SEC)
3. Southern Cal Trojans (9-1, 7-1 Pac 10)
4. Texas Longhorns (10-1. 6-1 Big 12)
5. Oklahoma Sooners (10-1, 6-1 Big 12)
6. Penn State Nittany Lions (11-1, 7-1 Big Ten)
7. Utah Utes (12-0, 8-0 MWC)
8. Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2, 7-1 Big Ten)
9. Texas Tech Red Raiders (10-1, 6-1 Big 12)
10. Boise State Broncos (11-0, 7-0 WAC)
11. Oklahoma State Cowboys (9-2, 5-2 Big 12)
12. Missouri Tigers (9-2, 5-2 Big 12)
13. Georgia Bulldogs (9-2, 6-2 SEC)
14. Ball State Cardinals (11-0, 7-0 MAC)
15. TCU Horned Frogs (10-2, 7-1 MWC)
16. Cincinnati Bearcats (9-2. 5-1 Big East)
17. Oregon State Beavers (8-3, 7-1 Pac 10)
18. Oregon Ducks (8-3, 7-1 Pac 10)
19. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (8-3, 5-3 ACC)
20. Michigan State Spartans (9-3, 6-2 Big Ten)
21. West Virginia Mountaineers (7-3, 4-1 Big East)
22. Pittsburgh Panthers (7-3, 3-2 Big East)
23. Northwestern Wildcats (9-3, 5-3 Big Ten)
24. (tied) Iowa Hawkeyes (8-4, 5-3 Big Ten)
    Mississippi Rebels (7-4, 4-3 SEC)
    Brigham Young Cougars (10-2, 6-2 MWC)
    

Teams Out of the Top 25 after Week 13 - LSU Tigers (7-4, 3-4 SEC), Miami-FL Hurricanes (7-4, 4-3 ACC), North Carolina Tar Heels (7-4, 3-4 ACC), Maryland (7-4, 4-3 ACC).

Team to Watch - Fresno State (7-4, 4-3 WAC) travels to #10 Boise State, who is working to finish the top non-BCS team in the country, battling #7 Utah.

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Last Friday night, I attended Cedar Falls vs. Cedar Rapids Washington in the semi-finals

West Des Moines Valley beats Cedar Falls on November 21, 2008 to win the Class 4A Iowa State Football Championship. I didn't attend the finals, since I live in Cedar Rapids and have no loyalty to either school. But, it apparently was "no contest" as Wesley Vaclav points out.

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Iowa @ Minnesota for the Floyd of Rosedale... in the final game in the Metrodome for good

Will Iowa keep Floyd for another year? The Hawkeyes won Floyd back last year, with a 21-16 win at Kinnick Stadium.

Both teams are already bowl eligible. Could a win bump Iowa to Orlando? Will it be Champs, Alamo or Insight for the Hawkeyes? ESPN preview of today's game.

Both teams are 7-4 on the season, though Iowa has won one more Big Ten game at 4-3 on the season. Iowa would be a Top 25 team had they won a couple of the close games they lost. Iowa has lost four games by a total of 12 points this season (1 to 5 points max).

News on the upcoming game...
Breaking down Iowa vs. Minnesota - Gazette Online, IA

Iowa Football: Hawkeyes get one last dance at Metrodome - DesMoinesRegister.com, IA

Current and former Minnesota Gophers recall the good and bad of 26 ... - Pioneer Press, MN

No place like Dome - Gazette Online

Time, place for Gophers to make a stand - Minneapolis Star Tribune

Savor Minnesota-Iowa football rivalry like fine swine - Minneapolis Star Tribune, MN - by Jim Mone, Associated Press

College Football's Week 13 ATS Picks - Bleacher Report, CA

Keeler: Iowa's football games in Metrodome have been strange affairs - DesMoinesRegister.com

Gophers on rise, thanks to Brewster - The Express Times - LehighValleyLive.com

Gophers eager to end regular season on winning note SportingNews.com

Charley Walters / Dome farewell will be gleeful for Tim Brewster - Pioneer Press

The end of an era - it's about time - Albert Lea Tribune

Gazette's football pick 'ems -Gazette Online, IA

cidsports' prediction for game:

Iowa Hawkeyes 34

@ Minnesota Golden Gophers 24

The Hawkeyes will tear into some Gopher meat and likely take Floyd back home to Iowa City for another year. In '05, Iowa beat Wisconsin in Barry Alvarez's final home game in Madison as head coach. Iowa is 6 wins, 1 loss, since 2001 in final road conference games head to head. The only loss was '06 at Minnesota in QB Drew Tate's final game. By the way, Minnesota last beat Iowa 34-24. Iowa won and lost this season by the score of 22-17 (L - NW, W- PUR).

Iowa must protect the football and play solid special teams. Takeaways will be a key for the winning team, as will special teams. I expect Iowa RB Shonn Greene to have a solid game running the football. On the flip side, I expect Minnesota QB Adam Weber to get many of his yards, as well (212 yards passing today).

Momentum will be very important. Iowa can't afford a start and turnovers like their last road game. Iowa's final conference road game in 2000 was a loss 24-27 loss in the Dome. An Iowa win today would move Iowa to 7-2 this decade in final road games of the season in the Big Ten.

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Is Kirk Ferentz on the cusp of becoming the Dean of Big Ten Football coaches?

With Joe Tiller retiring at Purdue at the end of this season, and with Joe Paterno's status at Penn State up in the air, Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz could become the Dean of Big Ten Conference football coaches this off season.

Kirk Ferentz came to Iowa City as J. Hayden Fry's replacement, before the 1999 season.

Here are the coaches that have come and gone, since Mr. Ferentz arrived in Iowa City ahead of the 1999 season:

Indiana: Cam Cameron, Gerry Dinardo, Terry Hoepner, Bill Lynch
Illinois: Ron Turner, Ron Zook
Michigan: Lloyd Carr, Rich Rodriguez
Michigan State: Nick Saban, Bobby Williams, John L Smith, Mark Dantonio
Minnesota: Glenn Mason, Tim Brewster
Northwestern: Randy Walker, Pat Fitzgerald
Ohio State: John Cooper, Jim Tressel
Penn State: Joe Paterno (Joe Pa is 81 years old and his contract expires after this season)
Purdue: Jor Tiller (on his way out after tomorrow, with Danny Hope in waiting)
Wisconsin: Barry Alvarez, Brett Bielema

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Could Iowa be Joe Paterno's final loss of his historical career at Penn State and in college football?

At age 81, is Joe Paterno two games away from closing out his long and storied career as head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions? Penn State has one loss on the season, a 23-24 defeat at Iowa on November 8, 2008.

Penn State (10-1, 6-1 Big Ten) will host Michigan State (9-2, 6-1 Big Ten) in Happy Valley to close out the Big Ten and regular season. Penn State is likely headed to a nice bowl game to close out the 2008 season.

Will 2008 be Joe Paterno's final season as a head coach in college football?

My choice is yes. Hopefully, after surgery in the off season, Mr. Paterno will find a role as a college television studio analyst or guest speaker. He has been a great ambassador for college athletics. He has been head coach at PSU, since 1966.

What are others saying about JoePa?

End of an era? Joe Paterno says he honestly doesn't know - Nov 19, 2008
Might Saturday's game be legendary coach Joe Paterno's last at home? If so, Paterno swears he doesn't yet know himself. There has been speculation that this ...
Detroit Free Press - 952 related articles »

Paterno has no plans to retire; predicts victory - Chicago Tribune - November 21, 2008

Joe Paterno says he'll 'run out of that tunnel next year' as Penn ... - ESPN - November 21, 2008

Penn St. picking up steam; Paterno plans on surgery - Chicago Tribune - November 16, 2008

Xtra Points: Retirement not in Hamilton's future just yet - Pittsburgh Post Gazette - November 20, 2008

In preparing this post, recent stories were found saying I may be off track, regarding JoePa's future. But, my thoughts were that this year's game at Kinnick would be JoePa's last game vs. Iowa. My prediction is that Joe Paterno will be coaching his two final games, then will retire at the end of this season. Mr. Paterno's contract expires at the end of the season.

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Will Iowa keep Floyd for another year?

The annual football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes (7-4, 4-3 Big Ten) vs. the Minnesota Golden Gophers (7-4, 3-4 Big Ten) will battle for the rights to hold the Floyd of Rosedale Trophy for the off season. The Hawkeyes won Floyd back last season at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City by the score of 21-16.

The Hawkeyes head up to the Twin Cities this weekend to face the Golden Gophers in the final Big Ten game of the season and the final game for the Golden Gophers playing in the Metrodome. The Golden Gophers will move to their new on campus outdoor stadium next season.

Kickoff is at 6 pm Saturday and will be televised by the Big Ten Network.

On Iowa! Does Floyd stay in Black and Gold for another year?

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Iowa wins at The Citadel in Basketball, but former Hawkeye and Packer passed away today

Former Iowa football and Hall of Fame Green Bay Packer Bob Jeter has passed away per the University of Iowa post game radio broadcast on WMT Radio 600-AM in Cedar Rapids.

The Iowa Hawkeyes beat The Citadel on road 70-48. Coach Todd Lickliter's young Hawkeyes move to 3-0 on the season.

However, our thoughts and prayer go out to Bob Jeter, his family, his friends and the Iowa and Green Bay sports families tonight.

As a fan of both teams, Bob Jeter was a special player, during his time at the University of Iowa and in the NFL, for the Green Bay Packers.

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Year One: Michigan and Rich Rodriguez close out season this weekend

A tough year at Michigan under first year head coach Rich Rodriguez with a 3-9 record and the end of a 33-year bowl streak. Could we see a mass exodus of players this off season from comments made today in the Detroit Free Press?

The Wolverines dismissed a player this week, and now another player has decided to leave the program.

“Jason Kates is not with us, and that’s it right now. There may be more
attrition. We want everyone to make a total commitment to our football program,
especially academically. If they’re not upholding what they have to do
academically and athletically, then really they need to see if this is the spot
for them. And it’s not easy, but a lot of guys have made a tremendous
commitment. A handful maybe haven’t, and we’ll see what happens in the next few
weeks.” - Rich Rodriguez

Things have been tough for Rich Rodriguez in his first year at Michigan, but a story today titled "Yes, fans can go too far, but Rich Rod shouldn't have brought up economy" highlights that the new coach "has a long way to go."

ESPN's L.Z. Ganderson wrote a piece today titled "Rodriguez takes the paycheck … and better take the criticism," which Ganderson suggests "comes with the paycheck."

The Michigan Wolverines (3-9, 2-5 Big Ten) travel to Columbus on Saturday to face rival Ohio State (9-2, 6-1 Big Ten). Welcome to the Big Ten coach Rod.

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Looking at the Big Ten Conference: Final Week of Play

Three teams enter the final weekend as candidates for the Rose Bowl. The likelihood of a third straight Big Ten team representing the conference in the BCS National Title game is slim to none, after Iowa upset Penn State in Week 11 by the score of 24-23 in a late second field goal by the Hawkeyes.

For the first time this decade, the Michigan Wolverines are not in contention for the Big Ten title entering the final week. Even worse for the Wolverines, the 33 year bowl streak is ended in '08.

Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz talking about Big Ten bowl games at his weekly media conference today.

Question. Rather than say play the Peach Bowl, Gator Bowl, you like the setup?

"I do. All bowls are good Bowls. But I think we've got a great you know, the
Big 10 has done a great job of organizing that. Just gets back, you have to do
your job on the field. If you do that, that's how you get rewarded. That's how
the bowls got started in the first place. It's a chance to reward the players
and fans." - Iowa's Kirk Ferentz

Big Ten Conference and Overall Records

School W-L PF PA W-L PF PA Streak - Opponent on 11/22
1. Penn State 6-1 222 91 10-1 433 131 W1 vs. Michigan State
1. Michigan State 6-1 183 159 9-2 296 214 W3 @ Penn State
1. Ohio State 6-1 196 91 9-2 296 150 W2 vs. Michigan
4. Northwestern 4-3 164 177 8-3 267 222 W1 vs. Illinois
4. Iowa 4-3 183 130 7-4 308 159 W2 @ Minnesota for Floyd of Rosedale
6. Minnesota 3-4 136 155 7-4 281 225 L3 vs. Iowa for Floyd of Rosedale
6. Illinois 3-4 208 179 5-6 334 292 L2 @ Northwestern
8. Wisconsin 3-5 206 227 6-5 308 268 W2 non-conference vs. Cal-Poly
9. Michigan 2-5 170 226 3-8 236 305 L1 @ Ohio State
10. Indiana 1-6 106 266 3-8 236 361 L3 @ Purdue for Old Oaken Bucket
10. Purdue 1-6 113 186 3-8 234 291 L2 vs. Indiana for Old Oaken Bucket

Will the Big Ten Conference get two BCS bowl representatives in 2008? With non-BCS teams, Utah and Boise State, undefeated to date... it is possible the Big Ten could get a second team knocked out of the BCS this year. However, it is possible that both teams will get knocked off in the final conference game(s) in the MWC and WAC, respectively.

Bowl bids are on the line this weekend. The Iowa Hawkeyes have been bowl eligible the past eight years under coach Kirk Ferentz, but last year, with a record ten Big Ten eligible teams... the Hawkeyes stayed home for the holidays. That will not happen in '08, but the Illinois Fighting Illini have a must win at Evanston vs. Northwestern to get the required six wins.

The Big Ten has qualified seven Big Ten teams to date for bowl games. Will the Fighting Illini make it seven on Saturday?

It should be an exciting close to the 2008 Big Ten season on Saturday. Purdue coach Joe Tiller will coach his final game on Saturday, since his retirement has been announced. Could Joe Paterno at Penn State be coaching his final Big Ten game this weekend?

Stay tuned... Big Ten conference games statistics through the season so far.

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Week 12 in the books - This week's cidsports' College Top 25 in Football

The Road to the.... 2009 BCS National Championship and the bowls of the FBS!

The major polls talk about Alabama, then Texas Tech, but until proven otherwise, the Florida Gators, the 2006 season BCS Champs, clearly appear to have the right stuff to continue as my #1 team in the Country.

The Big Game this week is the Big 12 Showdown with Texas Tech at Oklahoma in Norman. The odd Big Game of the week is Michigan at Ohio State... with Michigan at 3-8 and 2-5 in the Big Ten, ouch! Welcome to the Big Ten Conference Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez.

The Big Trophy Game of the week is Iowa (7-4, 4-3 Big Ten) at Minnesota (7-4, 3-4 Big Ten) for the battle of the Floyd of Rosedale. Further, it is the Golden Gophers final game in the Metrodome, before opening next season in a new outdoor stadium on campus.

Here's this week's cidsports' Top 25 for Week 12:

1. Florida Gators (9-1, 7-1 SEC)
2. Alabama Crimson Tide (11-0, 7-0 SEC)
3. Texas Tech Red Raiders (10-0, 6-0 Big 12)
4. Southern Cal Trojans (9-1, 7-1 Pac 10)
5. Texas Longhorns (10-1, 6-1 Big 12)
6. Oklahoma Sooners (9-1, 5-1 Big 12)
7. Utah Utes (11-0, 7-0 MWC)
8. Penn State Nittany Lions (10-1, 6-1 Big Ten)
9. Boise State Broncos (10-0, 6-0 WAC)
10. Oklahoma State Cowboys (9-2, 5-2 Big 12)
11. Missouri Tigers (9-2, 5-2 Big 12)
12. Ohio State Buckeyes (9-2, 6-1 Big Ten)
13. Georgia Bulldogs (9-2, 6-2 SEC)
14. Ball State Cardinals (10-0, 6-0 MAC)
15. TCU Horned Frogs (9-2, 6-1 MWC)
16. Brigham Young Cougars (10-1, 6-1 MWC)
17. Michigan State Spartans (9-2, 6-1 Big Ten)
18. LSU Tigers (7-3, 3-3 SEC)
19. Pittsburgh Panthers (7-2, 3-1 Big East)
20. Cincinnati Bearcats (8-2, 4-1 Big East)
21. Oregon State Beavers (7-3, 6-1 Pac 10)
22. West Virginia Mountaineers (6-3, 3-1 Big East)
23. Oregon Ducks (8-3, 6-2 Pac Ten)
24. Miami-FL Hurricanes (7-3, 4-2 ACC)
25. tie North Carolina Tar Heels (7-3, 3-3 ACC)
    Maryland (7-3, 4-2 ACC)

Teams Out of the Top 25 after Week 12 - Florida State Seminoles (7-3, 4-3 ACC) and California Golden Bears (6-4, 4-3 Pac 1o).

Team to Watch - Illinois Fighting Illini (5-6, 3-4 Big Ten) - Coach Ron Zook's Fighting Illini team is on the verge of staying home for the holidays with fellow Big Ten member Michigan, who like Illinois, finished tied for second place in '07 in the conference. The Fighting Illini travel to Evanston for the final conference game to face the Northwestern Wildcats (8-3, 4-3 Big Ten)

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Iowa Basketball moves to 2-0 on the season tonight

The Iowa Hawkeyes (2-0) defeated UT-San Antonio (0-2) tonight at Carver-Hawkeye Arena 73-67 to open the season with back to back wins at home.

Coach Todd Lickliter is beginning his second season at the University of Iowa, after a successful era at Butler.

Six newcomers made up the ten players who played tonight for the Hawkeyes. Coach Lickliter's first season ended 13-19. But, many expect improvement for the Hawkeyes in year two under Lickliter.

Iowa travels Thursday to The Citadel for their next ball game.

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Bowling League Tonight

Time to go bowling tonight.

I have to admit... I am not a good bowler, but the fellowship and league play is enjoyable.

Hopefully, we will pick up some points tonight.

Have a great week!

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Iowa wins Senior Day game over Purdue 22-17

The Iowa Hawkeyes (7-4, 4-3 Big Ten) picked up a nice win over Purdue (3-8, 1-6 Big Ten) 22-17 on Senior Day. It was Iowa's Kirk Ferentz final match up with retiring coach Joe Tiller from Purdue. Ferentz may become the Dean of the Big Ten coaches, if Penn State's Joe Paterno retires after the 2008 season.

The Hawkeyes pick up their first win in three seasons on Senior Day, after losses by the 2006 and 2007 teams.

Next week, at Minnesota, in the final game in the Metrodome, the Hawkeyes look to win their seventh game in eight seasons, in their final conference road game of the year in the Big Ten Conference, under coach Ferentz.

The Hawkeyes had a very good run from 2002 to 2004, finishing #8 nationally for three straight seasons. From 2005 to 2007, Iowa was stuck at six to seven wins per season. Bowl eligible, but not particular competitive game in and game out.

In 2008, Iowa has been very competitive. In their four losses, Iowa lost by a total of 12 points. The Battle for the Floyd of Rosedale is ahead for Iowa, at Minnesota. A 5-3 finish in the Big Ten was my projection entering 2008. Huge game for Iowa next week!

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Senior Day in Iowa City: Iowa hosts Purdue

Prediction:

Iowa Hawkeyes 38
Purdue Boilermakers 21

Iowa should enjoy a better Senior Day '08, than the past two Senior Day's at Kinnick for a coach Kirk Ferentz Iowa team.

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Cedar Falls takes out revenge on CR Washington in the Dome

Cedar Falls (12-1) will advance to play West Des Moines Valley (13-0) in the State Football Final, after a 27-19 win over Cedar Rapids Washington (11-2) Friday night in the UNI-Dome. The Tigers outplayed the Warriors on the line of scrimmage most of the night. Mistakes and Momentum were by products that the Tigers benefited from, as well.

The Warriors had a fine season, but playing Cedar Falls twice in the UNI-Dome proved too much. Coach Tony Lombardi advanced the Warriors farther into the playoffs in his fourth season, but experience at Cedar Falls was shown in the semi-final match up.

Valley beat Ankeny (11-2) 21-14 to advance to the finals, where they will meet Cedar Falls, next weekend.

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Rematch: Cedar Rapids Washington vs. Cedar Falls in one Class 4A Semi-Finals Football Matchup

One team will end the season tonight in the UNI-Dome, as Cedar Rapids Washington (11-1) meets Cedar Falls (11-1) in the 2nd game of the Class 4A Semi-Final Football Playoffs. Ankeny (11-1) and West Des Moines Valley (12-0) meet in the first game.

Washington and Cedar Falls opened the season verses one another in the Dome back in August. Washington won 28-9, taking control of the game in the 2nd half on Cedar Falls home field.

What is the magic number on defense? Is it 25 points, as a friend recently suggested?

Here our my keys to the game:

1. Turnovers (The Gazette had an article today highlighting Washington +16 turnover margin in '08)
2. Momentum (Washington is playing on Cedar Falls' home field)
3. Control of the line of scrimmage (line play is always important in football - especially in the playoffs)

The Gazette highlighted the following in today's edition:

"These teams met in their season-openers in late August with Washington
winning, 28-9, at the UNI-Dome. Cedar Falls has won 11 straight since behind a
defense that posted five shutouts during those 11 wins. LBs Jeff Hanson and Jeff
Conrad, and DB Jake Farley lead that defense. QB Kyle Bernard has passed for
1,328 yards and 17 TDs and RB Jay Brummell has rushed for 1,179 and 17 TDs.
Washington has won 10 straight and boasts the second highest scoring
differential in 4A at 25.2 ppg. Fellow semifinalist W.D.M. Valley leads 4A
at 31.2 ppg. The Warriors’ explosive offense averages 454 yards and 37.8 points
per game. QB Wyatt Suess has passed for 2,886 yards and 23 TDs. WR Keenan
Davis has 45 catches for 740 yards and 6 TDs despite missing all or parts of six
games with an injury. Junior TB Andre Dawson has rushed for 1,422 yards and 25
TDs." - The Gazette

It's hard to pin point any one thing. It's a classic match up of Washington's offensive skill vs. Cedar Falls' and their defense. One real factor that could be interesting to watch is Washington's offense in a weather controlled Dome, as opposed the the mud and rain of several games this fall outdoors.

cidsports' prediction:

Cedar Rapids Washington 42

Cedar Falls 24

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Should Notre Dame be the 12th team in the Big Ten?

Listening the Colin Cowherd today discuss Notre Dame athletics... I have to ask?

Should Notre Dame be in a football conference?

Charlie Weis has a young team at Notre Dame. The expectations are clearly out of whack. I agree with Colin Cowherd, only 3-4 teams are in the discussion year in and year out for the BCS Title Game. Notre Dame isn't likely to be one any time soon, if ever.

What does Notre Dame have to really play for? They are #2 among Catholic universities for football. Boston College owns them. Heck, they likely will find another way to toss them off the schedule to avoid the pain of it all.

It's too bad Notre Dame isn't a part of the Big East Conference for football. Though, they would already have a loss, since Pittsburgh took the Fighting Irish out in OT this year.

I wish Kevin White, new AD at Duke all the best. At least Duke is showing some life this fall in football. Heck, maybe Duke football can pass Notre Dame in the near future too.

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Support for your team... exhibition attendence outstanding at Creighton

College Basketball is kicking off things this week.

Andy Katz at ESPN had some very nice things to say about Creighton Monday:

• Creighton proves once again that it is one of the most-followed
programs with its loyal fan base. The Bluejays beat Central Missouri in an
exhibition game Sunday in front of 15,038 fans in Omaha. Just think about that
for a minute. There are plenty of high-major programs that would beg for numbers like that in the regular season, let alone for a Sunday exhibition in early
November. - Andy Katz

Creighton plays basketball at the Qwest Center Omaha. Clearly, the Bluejays play in the Mecca of the Missouri Valley for arenas.

The Jays open the 2008-09 season at home on Sunday, November 16, when Steve Alford brings his New Mexico Lobos to the Qwest Center. Alford is in his 2nd year of coaching at the University of New Mexico, after stints at Missouri State (formerly Southwest Missouri during Alford's days in Springfield) and the University of Iowa.

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What could have been in 2008... for the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Four losses by a total of 12 points, Iowa is considered a Top 30 team by this Las Vegas site. I clearly agree with their #1 choice, with the Florida Gators at this point.

Iowa's losses this year came at Pitt, vs. Northwestern, at Michigan State and at Illinois in '08. I projected Iowa to finish 5-3 in the Big Ten. Wins over Purdue and at Minnesota to close out the regular season would get Iowa to 5-3 in the Big Ten.

This is a young Iowa team that has had very good senior leadership with WR Andy Brodell, TE Brandon Myers, C Rob Bruggeman, RG Seth Olson, DT Matt Kroul, DT Mitch King, and CB Bradley Fletcher, all starters this season. This weekend's game vs. Purdue is Senior Day for Iowa.

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College Basketball for 2008-2009 tips off

Creighton picked to take Valley Men's Basketball Title in 2008-09, with Southern Illinois and Illinois State winding out Top 3 in the conference.

Duke tips off the 2008-09 basketball season on Monday, November 10th. More games tip off tonight in college basketball for Veterans Day.

Is Creighton a Top 25 team entering 2008-09? Joel Welser for collegehoopnet.com has the Bluejays at #24 in the country. Conference picks.

News Channel 8 Picks the Valley out in Arlington, VA. This looks very familiar to The Sports Network...

Valley seeks to regain multiple NCAA tourney bids by Jim Benson in Normal, Illinois with the Pantagraph.com... his breakdown of the Valley race.

Creighton and Southern Illinois make the mid-Major Top 25 poll from collegeinsider.com.

For the 2009-10 season, the Missouri Valley Conference and the Mountain West Conference will field a basketball challenge. Article.

It will be interesting year in College Basketball. How will the smaller conferences do vs. the super conferences, when it comes to head to head and NCAA selection?

In the Valley, the Drake Bulldogs had a special season last year. The won both the regular season title and conference tournament in Keno Davis' only season in Des Moines. Now, will Creighton and Southern Illinois win back their Mojo? Will the Valley get back to sending more than one team to the Dance? Stay tuned!

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One Team succeeds, while another team falls short

The Iowa Hawkeyes (6-4, 3-3 Big Ten) are bowl eligible for the eighth straight season. The Hawkeyes will host Senior Day at Kinnick this Saturday vs. Purdue (3-7, 1-5 Big Ten), in Joe Tiller's final game in Iowa City as the Boilermakers' coach.

The Iowa State Cyclones (2-8, 0-6 Big 12) are closing out head coach Gene Chizik's second season in Ames. The Cyclones host Big 12 rival and Big 12 North leader Missouri (8-2, 4-2 Big 12) on Saturday night.

It was a tough 24-28 road loss at Colorado for the Cyclones this past week, while the Hawkeyes boot a late 31 yard field goal to beat Penn State 24-23! Ironically, the radio announcer for the Cyclones Radio Network suggested ISU might go to the option. It appears the Colorado defense was prepared for it.

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Week 11 in the Books - This week's cidsports' College Top 25 in Football

Iowa knocks the Big Ten's candidate out. Penn State, Ohio State and Michigan State all have a chance for the Rose Bowl, but the BCS Championship Game for the 2008 season will not see a three peat with a Big Ten Conference school involved.

Is Alabama or Texas Tech really a #1 team? Heck, is Alabama even #1 in the SEC, when all is said and done?

Texas Tech remains undefeated, but are they the elite team in the country? Will they win the Big 12 South?

Where are those remaining non-BCS conference teams headed as we enter into the third weekend in November? Three teams remain undefeated: Ball State (MAC), Boise State (WAC) and Utah (MWC).

Here's this week's cidsports' Top 25 for Week 11:

1. Florida Gators (8-1, 6-1 SEC)
2. Alabama Crimson Tide (9-0, 6-0 SEC)
3. Texas Tech Red Raiders (10-0, 6-0 Big 12)
4. Southern Cal Trojans (8-1, 6-1 Pac 10)
5. Texas Longhorns (9-1, 5-1 Big 12)
6. Oklahoma Sooners (9-1, 5-1 Big 12)
7. Utah Utes (9-0, 5-0 MWC)
8. Penn State Nittany Lions (9-1, 5-1 Big Ten)
9. Boise State Broncos (9-0, 5-0 WAC)
10. Oklahoma State Cowboys (8-2, 4-2 Big 12)
11. Missouri Tigers (8-2, 4-2 Big 12)
12. Ohio State Buckeyes (8-2, 5-1 Big Ten)
13. Georgia Bulldogs (8-2, 5-2 SEC)
14. Ball State Cardinals (9-0, 5-0 MAC)
15. TCU Horned Frogs (9-2, 6-1 MWC)
16. Brigham Young (9-1, 5-1 MWC)
17. Michigan State Spartans (9-2, 6-1 Big Ten)
18. North Carolina (7-2, 3-2 ACC)
19. LSU Tigers (6-3, 3-3 SEC)
20. Florida State Seminoles (7-2, 4-2 ACC)
21. Pittsburgh Panthers (7-2, 3-1 Big East)
22. Cincinnati Bearcats (7-2, 3-1 Big East)
23. Oregon State Beavers (6-3, 5-1 Pac 10)
24. West Virginia Mountaineers (6-3, 3-1 Big East)
25. California Golden Bears (6-3, 4-2 Pac 1o)

Teams Out of the Top 25 after Week 11 - Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (7-3, 4-3 ACC) and Maryland Terrapens (6-3, 3-2 ACC).

Team to Watch - Troy Trojans (6-3, 4-1 Sun Belt) travels to #19 LSU (6-3, 3-3 SEC) for their final OOC game for '08. Troy's two losses in the OOC were to Top 25 Oklahoma State and Ohio State in b2b road trips in September.

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Colin Cowherd - 3 worse traditions in Sports

1. Drinking a glass of milk as champion of the Indianapolis 500 - agree
2. The running of the bulls - does this really qualify as a sport?
3. the Detroit Lions playing on Thanksgiving...

Colin Cowherd was going after the NFL for allowing the Detroit Lions to play on Thanksgiving and filling the TV airwaves in the process. The Detroit Lions started playing on Thanksgiving back in 1934 and annually back in 1945.

Colin, let them play... it's like throwing the Bad News Bears off the field in Houston during their baseball exposition.

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November 11, 2008 - Happy Veterans Day

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Plenty of Memories at Kinnick on Saturday

Iowa 24 Penn State 23

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Can Iowa knock off #2 Penn State at Kinnick today?

The University of Iowa have given Penn State Joe Pa some difficult games over the years. A lot of Iowa's success has been in Happy Valley, with head coaches Bob Commings, J Hayden Fry and present coach Kirk Ferentz all picking up big wins over in PA.

Iowa has won five of the last six games over Joe Pa and Penn State. Last year though, Penn State pulled out a 27-7 win over Iowa.

Iowa in on pace to beat opponents in the Big Ten they lost to last year, but lose to opponents they beat in '07

Penn State stands in the Hawkeyes way today.

A Penn State team that enters Iowa City and Kinnick Stadium off a bye week. A Nittany Lion team that could be playing in the BCS National Title Game, if they can get by Iowa and their next two oppoents.

Can Iowa (5-4, 2-3 Big Ten upset Penn State (9-0, 5-0 Big Ten) in Iowa City today?

Prior to the last two Iowa wins in Kinnick Stadium over Penn State, the Hawkeyes hadn't won over Penn State at home, since 1930. This is an Iowa team that has been pretty good in match ups with Penn State. We saw a huge high scoring affair in 2002, with Iowa winning 42-35 in OT, while seeing an offensive depleted game, where Iowa beat PSU 6-4. Two Iowa wins have been in OT over Joe Pa.

Last week, Iowa ended a five game win streak over Illinois (5-4, 3-3 Big Ten) with a 24-27 loss at Champaign on a last minute FG by the Illini. The Hawkeyes have lost four games in '08 by a total of 15 points, with a 5 point loss being the worse.

What Iowa team will we see today?

Iowa beat Wisconsin 38-16, but loss to Northwestern 22-17 (5 Iowa turnovers) at Kinnick Stadium earlier this season in the Big Ten. Can Iowa win all three phases of the game?

So, who knows what we will get with Iowa this week.

Does Penn State become Iowa's Illinois victory from last year?

The pundits at ESPN say Penn State will beat Iowa. Lee Corso says by a field goal... the Nittany Lions will still absent a statement game nationally. On the flip side, Kirk Herbstreet says Iowa will keep it close early, but from the sounds of it... Iowa will fall, like Michigan, in the second half.

So, can Iowa say, not so fast?

cidsports' Prediction:

Iowa 15

Penn State 13

Why not Iowa pulling off the close game in '08 for once? Why not Shonn Greene running for 109 yards, which is about 80% the yardage given up by Penn State (136.6) in Big Ten games this season.

Make Penn State quarterback Darryl Clark beat Iowa at quarterback... is he up the Juice? Illinois QB Juice Williams was up to the task last week, unlike Iowa's QB Ricky Stanzi.

On Iowa!

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Cedar Rapids Washington handles Bettendorf 48-27

It was a muddy turf, but the Washington Warriors (11-1) capitalized on Bettendorf Bulldogs (11-1) turnovers all game to pull out the Class 4A Iowa Quarter-Final Playoff Game for a 48-27 win at Kingston Stadium. The Warriors threw for nearly 450 yards in the win.

Next up: The UNI Dome in the semi-finals Friday!

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Cold Weather returns to Eastern Iowa

It is wet and cold in Cedar Rapids, as Washington High School (10-1) will host Bettendorf High School (11-0) in the Class 4A Quarter-Final Football Playoff Game at Kingston Stadium tonight at 7 pm.

Go Warriors!

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Two Games of personal interest this week...

Friday night in Cedar Rapids: Cedar Rapids Washington (10-1) hosts Bettendorf (11-0) in a Class 4A Quarter-Final Football match up. By the way, in my high school day, the Bulldogs usually had the Warriors number in the state football playoffs.

Saturday afternoon in Iowa City: the Iowa Hawkeyes (5-4, 2-3 Big Ten) will host my #2 Penn State Nittany Lions (9-0, 5-0 Big Ten) in an important Big Ten Conference game at Kinnick Stadium. ABC/ESPN will televise at 2:30 pm.

Weather is certainly taking a turn to cold, after a great week or so of outstanding Autumn weather in Iowa and much of the Midwest.

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The future 44th President of the United States of America...

The Economist proclaimed "America should take a chance and make Barack Obama the next leader of the free world."

Data on the Presidential Election of 2008.

Polls are closed in most of the United States and the numbers appear strong that Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) will become the future 44th President of the United States of America.

May he be successful in bringing our nation together and represent the will of the people of our great country.

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I'll take a wildcard as #1 in the Nation after Week 10...

Who’s number one?

We will find out soon enough in the presidential campaign, but after Week 10 of the college football season… it’s hard to really say. We have three key BCS conference teams that are still undefeated, in Alabama, Penn State and Texas Tech.

But, are any of these teams truly the #1 college football team in the country?

1. Florida Gators (7-1, 5-1 SEC)


2. Penn State Nittany Lions (9-0, 5-0 Big Ten)


3. Alabama Crimson Tide (9-0, 5-0 SEC)


4. Texas Tech Red Raiders (9-0, 5-0 Big 12)


5. Southern Cal Trojans (7-1, 5-1 Pac 10)


6. Texas Longhorns (8-1, 4-1 Big 12)


7. Oklahoma Sooners (8-1, 4-1 Big 12)


8. Oklahoma State Cowboys (8-1, 4-1 Big 12)


9. Missouri Tigers (7-2, 3-2 Big 12)


10. Utah Utes (9-0, 5-0 MWC)


11. Boise State Broncos (8-0, 4-0 WAC)


12. TCU Horned Frogs (9-1, 6-0 MWC)


13. Georgia Bulldogs (7-2, 4-2 SEC)


14. LSU Tigers (6-2, 3-2 SEC)


15. Ohio State Buckeyes (7-2, 4-1 Big Ten)


16. Brigham Young Cougars (8-1, 4-1 MWC)


17. Ball State Cardinals (8-0, 4-0 MAC)


18. California Golden Bears (6-2, 4-1 Pac 10)


19. Michigan State Spartans (8-2, 5-1 Big Ten)


20. West Virginia Mountaineers (6-2, 3-0 Big East)


21. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (7-2, 4-2 ACC)


22. North Carolina Tar Heels (6-2, 2-2 ACC)


23. Maryland Terrapens (6-2, 3-1 ACC)


24. Florida State Seminoles (6-2, 3-2 ACC)


25. Pittsburgh Panthers (6-2, 2-1 Big East)
    

Teams Out of the Top 25 after Week 10 - Tulsa Golden Hurricane (8-1, 5-0 C-USA), Oregon Ducks (6-3, 4-2 Pac 10), Minnesota Golden Gophers (7-2, 3-2 Big Ten)

Team to Watch - Iowa Hawkeyes (5-4, 2-3 Big Ten) - The Hawkeyes host #2 Penn State at Kinnick Stadium this Saturday... with the Hawkeyes turning to a spoiler role predominately, after a disappointing and hard fought game in Champaign, where the Illinois Fighting Illini (5-4, 3-3 Big Ten) beat the Hawkeyes 27-24 on a late minute FG, after leading the majority of game, only to see Iowa come back from a 15 point deficit to tie the game up.

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It's Election Day - November 4, 2008, Please Vote!

Where to Vote on Election Day in the State of Iowa?

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Wow, so Who's #1 today?

We make an important decision on Election Day - November 4, 2008...

Need to check out the latest news on the Election on Tuesday?

They also have RealClearSports...

Real Clear Sports
Texas Tech's Win for the Ages - Richard Justice, Houston Chronicle
Gators Silent Dawgs' Bark with Big Bite - Mike Bianchi, Orlando Sentinel
BCS Goes High Tech - Chris Dufresne, Los Angeles Times
Can Jed York Save the 49ers? - Tom FitzGerald, San Francisco Chronicle
Colts-Patriots Not Quite the Same - John Tomase, Boston Herald

Who should be #1 in the College Polls, when Texas Tech's upset win 39-33 over Texas last night, after the Longhorns overcame a nearly four quarter deficit to gain a brief lead at 33-32?

I have to admit, the Red Raiders defense last night was impressive. This coming from the same Texas Tech Red Raiders team that nearly fell in OT at home to Nebraska.

I am impressed with Florida... I had them ranked #5, unlike other polls, prior to Week 10. Now, after Week 10, Florida is clearly impressive.

Who's #1 in College Football and who should be our next president?

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Don't forget to Vote on November 4, 2008 - Election Day

Why do I support John McCain over Barack Obama for president.

One reason is we need checks and balances in government. Clearly, the Democrats are going to earn more seats in the Senate and House in the 2008 Election.

One of the more important issues during the Presidential Campaign for me. For more information visit my public policy blog.

I encourage you to vote on Election Day - November 4, 2008.

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#3 Creighton blanks #24 Drake in College Soccer

On the gridiron, the Hawkeyes came up short in Champaign. But, the seniors shined in Omaha, as #3 Creighton defeated #24 Drake 2-0 in MVC soccer.

Will see how the Cornhuskers -Sooners game goes on ESPN, but the big game is #1 Texas @ #8 Texas Tech in Lubbock on ABC tonight.

The Creighton Bluejays will hit the road next Saturday at Eastern Illinois to close the regular season and MVC play.

The State Farm Missouri Valley Tournament will be November 12, 14 and 16th in Evansville, Indiana.

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AP releases Pre-Season College Basketball Poll

Creighton Bluejays receive 7 votes on the first AP Preseason College Basketball Poll.

North Carolina is the consensus #1 team according the AP Poll.

The Big Ten Conference has Michigan State at #6, Purdue #11, and Wisconsin #25. Ohio State received 64 votes, clearly behind the 196 votes received the #25 team.

The Big 12 Conference has Texas at #7, Oklahoma #12, and Kansas #24. Baylor and Texas A&M were among the schools also receiving votes.

Creighton's final opponent from last season, Florida, is rated #19. Florida defeated Creighton in the NIT to end the Jays season.

Three Creighton opponents are among the teams receiving votes: New Mexico (Nov. 16 home opener), St. Joseph's (Dec. 6 on road), and fellow Missouri Valley Conference team, Drake.

It should be an exciting year in college basketball. Iowa and Iowa State are both continuing the rebuilding process.

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Illinois beats Iowa on a 46 yard FG to win 27-24 in Champaign

Experience at QB was the difference in this game, plain and simple.

You can rag on the coaches all you want, but Iowa's QB cost them dearly today, with his tunnel vision.

Iowa left a lot of plays on the field with their offense, defense and special teams... this game was a lot like the game at Pitt earlier in the season, where Iowa lost 20-21.

It was great to see the fight in Iowa, coming back from 15 points down, but it wasn't Iowa's day... it was Ron Zook's Fighting Illini's day.

It will not get any easier for Iowa (5-4, 2-3 Big Ten). The Hawkeyes will host #2 Penn State (9-0, 5-0 Big Ten), who have bye week to prepare for the Hawkeyes. Kinnick Stadium will have to get behind the Hawkeyes in their bid at a key upset in the race to the BCS for the Nittany Lions.

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#3 Creighton Bluejays host #24 Drake in College Soccer today

Iowa @ Illinois in college football on ABC/ESPN at 2:30 pm, while #3 Creighton Jays soccer hosts #24 Drake in Omaha at 2 pm today!

Later tonight, the old Big 8 football returns, with Nebraska at my #7 Oklahoma on ESPN at 7 pm.

#1 Texas travels to Lubbock to face #8 Texas Tech with #1 on the line in the Big 12 South, prime time on ABC!

Finally, Iowa State travels to Stillwater to face #9 Oklahoma State in what could be a very ugly game.

On Iowa! Go Jays! Go Big Red! Go Longhorns! Go State!

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Kickoff at 2:30 today on ABC or ESPN: Iowa @ Illinois

Coming off bye week, it will be interesting to see how the offense and defense start for the Iowa Hawkeyes (5-3, 2-2 Big Ten). The Illinois Fighting Illini (4-4, 2-3 Big Ten) are not as good as they were in '07. Iowa is improved... likely in all three phases of the game.

Looking around the predictions, I am surprised that high passing numbers result in success in the W-L column. Controlling the line of scrimmage and running the ball will be keys for either team in Champaign.

Iowa has held Illinois to 13 or less, in the past five games in this series... all Iowa wins.

Six in row... it didn't happen over Penn State for Iowa last year, so are the Illini any different for the Hawkeyes in '08?

I'll predict 194 yards passing and 50 yards rushing, for a total of 244 yards for Juice Williams.
Another two keys to watch: turnovers and placekicking...

Defense wins championships... This time of year, teams like Iowa need help!

Prediction:

Iowa Hawkeyes 25
Illinois Fighting Illini 20

On Iowa!

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