A few observations from the Bearcats big 41-10 victory over Louisville on Friday:
1. It was great to see Nippert stadium filled, but at times it didn't sound like it. The student section was crazy as always, but for having the #5 team in the country, the fans at times were quiet and seemed uninterested. Before the game I was watching the Ohio State game while downing pizza & beers at Papa' Dino's and was impressed that even after a loss to Purdue that took them out of BCS contention, the fans were still going berzerk. We need that fanaticism in Cincinnati.
2. I was very impressed with the UC offense without Tony Pike. Zach Collaros played an awesome game, going 15 of 17 passing. I was surprised UC didn't run the ball more. The RBs only got 19 carries, and most of those came after the Bearcats had the big lead.
3. I love the cozy confines of Nippert, except when I get out of my seat. The concession and bathroom lines are ridiculous. Any plans to expand the stadium need to include plans to exapnd these areas, because they can barely handle 35,000.
4. I was in the bathroom at halftime and someone started chaning "Who-Dey". Really? This goes back to #1 above. I know people are excited about the Bengals, but come on. You are at the #5 Bearcats game, and they are winning big against a hated rival. How about a "U-C" chant?
5. It was nice to see some of the reserves get some reps in. The Bearcat's depth and experience is a big reason for their great success from season-to-season under Brian Kelly.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Collaros likely to start for Cincinnati vs. Louisville
ESPN is reporting that "a source close to the situation" has informed them that Zach Collaros will start for UC against Louisville.
Collaros replaced Pike after he was injured against South Florida and lead the Bearcats to a victory. This will be Collaros first collegiate start.
Game time is 3:30. Lots going on around campus today. Check out the schedule. More info at the UC site.
Collaros replaced Pike after he was injured against South Florida and lead the Bearcats to a victory. This will be Collaros first collegiate start.
Game time is 3:30. Lots going on around campus today. Check out the schedule. More info at the UC site.
Game Day Snapshot Schedule | |
11:00 a.m. | |
11:00 a.m. | |
Noon | |
1:00 p.m. | |
Approx. 1:10 p.m. | |
1:30 p.m. | |
| 3:30 p.m. | |
| Men's Soccer vs. St. John's | 7:00 p.m. |
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Pike has surgery, not ruled out
Bearcats quarterback Tony Pike had surgery on his left, non-throwing forearm Tuesday morning to fix a metal plate that shifted after getting hit in UC's game against South Florida.
Despite that, coach Brian Kelly has not ruled Pike out for this Saturday's game against Louisville. Kelly said that they will work to keep the swelling down over the next 48 hours and then have Pike return to practice to see if he can play.
With this news, I would be absolutely shocked if Pike plays this Saturday. There is no reason to risk further injury and an extended absence for this game. If this were Pitt and the Big East championship were on the line, maybe. But not for Louisville.
Despite that, coach Brian Kelly has not ruled Pike out for this Saturday's game against Louisville. Kelly said that they will work to keep the swelling down over the next 48 hours and then have Pike return to practice to see if he can play.
With this news, I would be absolutely shocked if Pike plays this Saturday. There is no reason to risk further injury and an extended absence for this game. If this were Pitt and the Big East championship were on the line, maybe. But not for Louisville.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Pike practices
Cincinnati QB Tony Pike practiced today for the first time since suffering an injury to his left forearm just 4 days ago. He is day-to-day, and it has not been decided if he will play this Saturday against Louisville.
At the time of the injury it was believed he would miss at least this weeks game and possibly several more if surgery is required. Now he is practicing with a protective cast and the coaches are trying to determine if he can play and protect himself from further injury.
I like Pike's toughness and think the Bearcats need him to win the Big East, but I'd rather not see him play this week. Even though its a rivalry game, Louisville is one of the weaker teams in the conference this year. I would like to see Zach Collaros or Chazz Anderson start with Pike on standby if the game was on the line. The experience would do Collaros or Anderson good and would give Pike's arm another full week to heal so he can finish the season.
At the time of the injury it was believed he would miss at least this weeks game and possibly several more if surgery is required. Now he is practicing with a protective cast and the coaches are trying to determine if he can play and protect himself from further injury.
I like Pike's toughness and think the Bearcats need him to win the Big East, but I'd rather not see him play this week. Even though its a rivalry game, Louisville is one of the weaker teams in the conference this year. I would like to see Zach Collaros or Chazz Anderson start with Pike on standby if the game was on the line. The experience would do Collaros or Anderson good and would give Pike's arm another full week to heal so he can finish the season.
Post-game thoughts on Cincinnati @ South Florida
It was a great win for the Bearcats, despite the injury to Tony Pike. As I said earlier, I think the ability to win without Pike showed the Bearcat's depth and versatility and the genius of coach Brian Kelly to succesfully adapt his offense to fit the situation and personnel.
I previously listed my keys to the game. So how did UC do?:
1. Take the crowd out of it--UC did not do a great job of this, as they even fell behind early. The crowd didn't quiet down until Zach Collaros stunned them with his 75 yard run, but then he charged them back up again with his interception. Despite the noise and frenzy, the Bearcats didn't get rattled.
2. Neutralize the pass rush--UC did a pretty good job of this. Bearcats left tackle Jeff Linkenbach held his own against George Selvie. Jason Pierre-Paul caused some problems, and of course Tony Pike took some hits.
3. Take what the defense give you--this is a Brian Kelly specialty. Mardy Gilyard was not a major factor in the game, instead Armon Binns had two TDs and is emerging as another nice weapon in the Cincinnati arsenal.
4. Get off the field--the Bearcats defense was hugely improved in this area. USF converted only 4 of 16 third downs and held the ball for only 28:42 versus UCs 31:18.
I previously listed my keys to the game. So how did UC do?:
1. Take the crowd out of it--UC did not do a great job of this, as they even fell behind early. The crowd didn't quiet down until Zach Collaros stunned them with his 75 yard run, but then he charged them back up again with his interception. Despite the noise and frenzy, the Bearcats didn't get rattled.
2. Neutralize the pass rush--UC did a pretty good job of this. Bearcats left tackle Jeff Linkenbach held his own against George Selvie. Jason Pierre-Paul caused some problems, and of course Tony Pike took some hits.
3. Take what the defense give you--this is a Brian Kelly specialty. Mardy Gilyard was not a major factor in the game, instead Armon Binns had two TDs and is emerging as another nice weapon in the Cincinnati arsenal.
4. Get off the field--the Bearcats defense was hugely improved in this area. USF converted only 4 of 16 third downs and held the ball for only 28:42 versus UCs 31:18.
Friday, October 16, 2009
#8 Cincinnati @ #21 South Florida--Great win for the Bearcats!
UC struggled early, but made the needed adjustments and came up with a big win. BJ Daniels was impressive, but Zach Collaros was awesome, and the Bearcars prevail 34-17.
I hope Tony Pike is able to come back from his injury soon, but I think that this game showed the depth of the Bearcats talent, and their ability to adapt to their oppenent and the circumstances.
I hope Tony Pike is able to come back from his injury soon, but I think that this game showed the depth of the Bearcats talent, and their ability to adapt to their oppenent and the circumstances.
Labels:
Cincinnati,
South Florida,
Tony Pike,
UC,
Zach Collaros
Thursday, October 15, 2009
UC @ USF - Keys to the game for UC & prediction
Cincinnati faces a big test against a good team in a hostile environment. To come away with the win against South Florida, the Bearcats need to:
1. Take the crowd out of it--If the offense can get some early scores and the defense some early stops, the Bulls homefield advantage would be minimized.
2. Neutralize the pass rush--USF features a very talented defensive line. Quick passes and a rolling pocket will help take the pressure off Tony Pike. UC could also run a bit more than usual to keep the D-line on their heels.
3. Take what the defense give you--Miami (OH) very effectively double-teamed Mardy Gilyard. If USF does the same the Bearcats need to be patient, not force the ball, and look for one of their other playmakers. Could be a big night for DJ Woods, Armon Binns, or Isiah Pead.
4. Get off the field--The defense has been great on 1st and 2nd downs, but not so much on 3rd, with opponents converting nearly 50 percent of the time. The defense needs to get stops and get off the field so the offense can get the ball and have a more balanced time of possession.
My prediction: Bearcats lead throughout, and its close at the half, but in the end UC just has more talent and pulls away.
Cincinnati 31 South Florida 20
1. Take the crowd out of it--If the offense can get some early scores and the defense some early stops, the Bulls homefield advantage would be minimized.
2. Neutralize the pass rush--USF features a very talented defensive line. Quick passes and a rolling pocket will help take the pressure off Tony Pike. UC could also run a bit more than usual to keep the D-line on their heels.
3. Take what the defense give you--Miami (OH) very effectively double-teamed Mardy Gilyard. If USF does the same the Bearcats need to be patient, not force the ball, and look for one of their other playmakers. Could be a big night for DJ Woods, Armon Binns, or Isiah Pead.
4. Get off the field--The defense has been great on 1st and 2nd downs, but not so much on 3rd, with opponents converting nearly 50 percent of the time. The defense needs to get stops and get off the field so the offense can get the ball and have a more balanced time of possession.
My prediction: Bearcats lead throughout, and its close at the half, but in the end UC just has more talent and pulls away.
Cincinnati 31 South Florida 20
Labels:
Armon Binns,
Cincinnati Bearcats,
DJ Woods,
football,
Isiah Pead,
Mardy Gilyard,
South Florida Bulls,
Tony Pike,
UC,
USF
#8 Cincinnati at #21 South Florida Preview
When the #8 Cincinnati Bearcats travel to Tampa Bay to take on the #21 South Florida Bulls Thursday night it will be the biggest game of the season for both teams. Alot is riding on this game, both for the teams and the Big East Conference. For the teams, its a chance to take sole possession of first place in the Big East. While both teams have some tough games ahead, both will likely be favored in every remaining game, so the stakes in this one are huge. This is the game that could decide the Big East (of course West Virginia, Pitt, & UConn might disagree). The Bearcats want to show that they belong in the top 10 and maybe even the national championship discussion, while the Bulls want to show that they can play well consistently after starting 5-0 the last two season followed by several in conference losses.
For the Big East Conference, this game is a chance to gain some respect by showing off two quality football teams before a national television audience (ESPN).
This should be a great game as each team matches strength against strength. The Bearcats offense ranks 6th nationally in pass offense (329.8 yds/gm) while the Bulls defense has the best pass defense in the Big East (158.2 yds/gm). UC ranks #3 in scoring at 42 points per game, while the USF defense is #5 in points allowed at 9.5 points per game. The Bulls defense, led by former UC defensive coordinator Joe Tresey, has 16 take-aways, while the UC offense has only turned the ball over 3 times this season. USF has two potential first round NFL draft picks in DEs George Selvie and Jason Pierre-Paul, while the Bearcats offensive line has only given up 3 sacks all season.
Despite the apparent statistical stalemate, I think the Bearcats have the edge here. This is by far the most talented team South Florida has faced. QB Tony Pike has a terrific grasp of the offense, a quick release, and great accuracy. The no-huddle, spread offense should wear down the USF defense as the game goes on. Plus, this isn't just the Tony Pike and Mardy Gilyard show. UC has offensive touchdowns scored by 10 different players this season, and in the end that is just too many weapons for South Florida to stop.
Not as much has been made about the matchup between the South Florida offense and Cincinnati defense, but this is another area where I think Cincinnati has the edge. Again, this will be the most talented defense USF has faced. For Cincinnati, the Bulls probably are the best passing offense they have faced, so this could be a test for the secondary. The Bearcats run defense has faced two of the top running backs in the nation, but still rank 25th in the nation, yielding just over 100 yards per game, and should be able to handle USF on the ground.
For the Bulls, QB BJ Daniels has done a great job stepping in for injured Matt Groethe. He's a dual threat to run or pass, which could cause headaches for Cincy. The Bearcats however, lead the nation in tackles for loss (10 per game) and sacks (4.2 per game) and should be able to get to Daniels against an average Bulls offensive line.
For the Big East Conference, this game is a chance to gain some respect by showing off two quality football teams before a national television audience (ESPN).
This should be a great game as each team matches strength against strength. The Bearcats offense ranks 6th nationally in pass offense (329.8 yds/gm) while the Bulls defense has the best pass defense in the Big East (158.2 yds/gm). UC ranks #3 in scoring at 42 points per game, while the USF defense is #5 in points allowed at 9.5 points per game. The Bulls defense, led by former UC defensive coordinator Joe Tresey, has 16 take-aways, while the UC offense has only turned the ball over 3 times this season. USF has two potential first round NFL draft picks in DEs George Selvie and Jason Pierre-Paul, while the Bearcats offensive line has only given up 3 sacks all season.
Despite the apparent statistical stalemate, I think the Bearcats have the edge here. This is by far the most talented team South Florida has faced. QB Tony Pike has a terrific grasp of the offense, a quick release, and great accuracy. The no-huddle, spread offense should wear down the USF defense as the game goes on. Plus, this isn't just the Tony Pike and Mardy Gilyard show. UC has offensive touchdowns scored by 10 different players this season, and in the end that is just too many weapons for South Florida to stop.
Not as much has been made about the matchup between the South Florida offense and Cincinnati defense, but this is another area where I think Cincinnati has the edge. Again, this will be the most talented defense USF has faced. For Cincinnati, the Bulls probably are the best passing offense they have faced, so this could be a test for the secondary. The Bearcats run defense has faced two of the top running backs in the nation, but still rank 25th in the nation, yielding just over 100 yards per game, and should be able to handle USF on the ground.
For the Bulls, QB BJ Daniels has done a great job stepping in for injured Matt Groethe. He's a dual threat to run or pass, which could cause headaches for Cincy. The Bearcats however, lead the nation in tackles for loss (10 per game) and sacks (4.2 per game) and should be able to get to Daniels against an average Bulls offensive line.
Labels:
Bearcats,
BJ Daniels,
Bulls,
Cincinnati,
ESPN,
Mardy Gilyard,
South Florida,
Tony Pike,
UC,
USF
UC @ USF links to coverage
Lots of coverage of tonight's big game. I can hardly wait!
Here's an article that links to a number of sites covering the game.
Not included in the above article is this great piece on UC in USAToday.
Here's an article that links to a number of sites covering the game.
Not included in the above article is this great piece on UC in USAToday.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Bearcats on CNNSI
At the moment the Bearcats are the college football cover story on CNNSI.com, with the following articles:
-The Big East's big burden
-Kelly has put Cincinnati on map with wide-open offense, stout D
-Cincy QB's journey from perennial backup to Heisman contender
-The Big East's big burden
-Kelly has put Cincinnati on map with wide-open offense, stout D
-Cincy QB's journey from perennial backup to Heisman contender
What's the deal in Tampa?
It looks like Cincinnati isn't the only Big East program trying to convince their city that they are worth coming out to see. Like Cincinnati, South Florida shares their city with a pro football team, but unlike Cincinnati, the Tampa Bay Bucs have yet to win a game. It would seem like a perfect time for fans to hop on the undefeated USF bandwagon, but apparently that isn't happening.
This Thursday's nationally televised game between two undefeated, ranked teams is not yet sold out, so the school is promoting the game with billboards, two-for-one ticket offers, and $10 upper deck seats in an effort to pack over 60,000 into Raymond James stadium. They are seeking to recreate the atmosphere in 2007 when 67,012 fans saw the Bulls defeat #5 West Virginia.
Playing USF on the road is going to be a tough test for the Bearcats. Fortunately UC has already been tested with big road wins at Rutgers and Oregon State, where they broke a string of 26 straight non-conference wins.
This Thursday's nationally televised game between two undefeated, ranked teams is not yet sold out, so the school is promoting the game with billboards, two-for-one ticket offers, and $10 upper deck seats in an effort to pack over 60,000 into Raymond James stadium. They are seeking to recreate the atmosphere in 2007 when 67,012 fans saw the Bulls defeat #5 West Virginia.
Playing USF on the road is going to be a tough test for the Bearcats. Fortunately UC has already been tested with big road wins at Rutgers and Oregon State, where they broke a string of 26 straight non-conference wins.
Labels:
Cincinnati Bearcats,
South Florida Bulls,
Tampa Bay
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Scary Stat of the Week
Stewart Mandel writing his College Football Mailbag column a couple of weeks ago on CNNSI.com noted that Thursday night games have become a trap for highly ranked teams.
He cites the fact that since the start of last season, 8 favored teams have lost to the underdog, and 7 of those times the favored team was on the road.
He goes on to say "you'd be absolutely nuts to agree to play a Thursday night road game on ESPN" and asks "Why would any visiting coach in his right mind walk willingly into that death trap?"
Even though this suggests that history is against the Bearcats, it seems to me that over the past few seasons the team has performed incredibly well in nationally televised games. I was looking for a stat on this but can't find one, but did find that under Brian Kelly the Bearcats are 15-3 on the road and 14-3 in night games. Kelly will have the team ready to play, and won't allow them to fall victim to the Thursday night trap.
He cites the fact that since the start of last season, 8 favored teams have lost to the underdog, and 7 of those times the favored team was on the road.
He goes on to say "you'd be absolutely nuts to agree to play a Thursday night road game on ESPN" and asks "Why would any visiting coach in his right mind walk willingly into that death trap?"
Even though this suggests that history is against the Bearcats, it seems to me that over the past few seasons the team has performed incredibly well in nationally televised games. I was looking for a stat on this but can't find one, but did find that under Brian Kelly the Bearcats are 15-3 on the road and 14-3 in night games. Kelly will have the team ready to play, and won't allow them to fall victim to the Thursday night trap.
Labels:
Brian Kelly,
Cincinnati Bearcats,
ESPN,
South Florida Bulls
Monday, October 12, 2009
UC vs USF early lines
I can hardly wait for Thursday's game! It's a huge one for both teams, and should draw a good national television audience since its features two of only 9 remaining undefeated teams. The early Vegas lines are out, and the results are mixed, with several listing the Bearcats as 3 point favorites, while at least one sportsbook favors the Bulls by 1.5 points.
Labels:
Cincinnati Bearcats,
South Florida Bulls
Brian Kelly on College Football Live
Here's another appearance by Brian Kelly while he was at ESPN studios. This one is on College Football Live.
Labels:
Brian Kelly,
Cincinnati Bearcats,
ESPN
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Tony Pike interview
I hate bye weeks. Not sure what to do with myself with no game today.
Here's an interview with Tony Pike on ESPN from earlier this week:
Here's an interview with Tony Pike on ESPN from earlier this week:
Labels:
Cincinnati Bearcats,
ESPN,
Tony Pike
Friday, October 9, 2009
Brian Kelly on ESPN today
Sorry for the late update, just found this: Brian Kelly is taking advantage of the Bearcats bye week to go to ESPN studios in Bristol, CT to promote the UC football program. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer's blog, this will be Kelly's schedule:
11:20 a.m. - ESPN2 First Take
11:50 a.m. - ESPN Radio, Mike Tirico's Weekend Blitz
1 p.m. - ESPN Radio College Game Day (Tape)
1:20 p.m. - ESPN Radio/ESPN2, Scott Van Pelt Show
1:30 p.m. - ESPN Radio College Game Day Tailgate (tape)
1:40 p.m. - ESPN, Outside the Lines (tape)
2 p.m. - ESPN College Football Live
If you miss them live you may be able to find them on ESPN's website.
11:20 a.m. - ESPN2 First Take
11:50 a.m. - ESPN Radio, Mike Tirico's Weekend Blitz
1 p.m. - ESPN Radio College Game Day (Tape)
1:20 p.m. - ESPN Radio/ESPN2, Scott Van Pelt Show
1:30 p.m. - ESPN Radio College Game Day Tailgate (tape)
1:40 p.m. - ESPN, Outside the Lines (tape)
2 p.m. - ESPN College Football Live
If you miss them live you may be able to find them on ESPN's website.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Tony Pike for Heisman T-shirts
Support the efforts of Tony Pike for the Heisman Trophy with this shirt.
![]()
At checkout use the code "BEARCATS" for 15% off your entire order! Order here.
Labels:
Cincinnati Bearcats,
Heisman trophy,
Tony Pike
We got the Power
Rivals.com features several bearcats in their player power rankings.
Tony Pike is ranked #5 QB
Mardy Gliyard is #1 WR & #10 Special teams player
Alex Daniels debuts on the list as #25 DL
Brian Kelly is #7 Head Coach
Tony Pike is ranked #5 QB
Mardy Gliyard is #1 WR & #10 Special teams player
Alex Daniels debuts on the list as #25 DL
Brian Kelly is #7 Head Coach
Labels:
Alex Daniels,
Brian Kelly,
Mardy Gilyard,
Tony Pike
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
A win is a win
Well, it wasn't pretty and certainly wasn't the blowout and total domination I expected, but the Bearcat get out of Oxford with the W, which is all that matters.
The Bearcats won 37-13, which looks respectable, but really didn't play a very good game. Certainly not a complete game. After being up 20-0, they let Miami get back in the game at 23-13, before pulling away for good. UC didn't play badly, and this was a rivalry game against a lowly regarded opponent, but they will get beat by better teams if they play like this again.
“Today was not our ‘A’ game,” Kelly said. “Not to take anything away from Miami because they played very well today. We’ve just got more work to do.”
The Bearcats have 10 days to find their A game before traveling to a tough game at South Florida.
The Bearcats won 37-13, which looks respectable, but really didn't play a very good game. Certainly not a complete game. After being up 20-0, they let Miami get back in the game at 23-13, before pulling away for good. UC didn't play badly, and this was a rivalry game against a lowly regarded opponent, but they will get beat by better teams if they play like this again.
“Today was not our ‘A’ game,” Kelly said. “Not to take anything away from Miami because they played very well today. We’ve just got more work to do.”
The Bearcats have 10 days to find their A game before traveling to a tough game at South Florida.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
I started this blog after searching for other blogs that cover UC and could find very little, except for this post pointing out that there are no Bearcat blogs. This site will be a work in progress when I can squeeze in the time. I welcome suggestions and hope you enjoy it.
Labels:
Cincinnati Bearcats
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)