So the slide continues.
Once 6-0, James Madison fell to 6-4 after a 69-61 loss to Pittsburgh at Staten Island, N.Y. Madison senior forward Tamera Young had her best game of the year with 32 points on 12-20 shooting, but JMU was 0-12 on 3-pointers and freshman point guard Dawn Evans continued her slump with only eight points on 2-16 shooting.
Nine of her misses were from behind the arc.
Madison took a 35-33 lead into halftime in the Wagner Holiday Classic, but the Panthers fought back and took the lead for good with seven minutes, nine seconds left in the game. There were 13 ties and 10 lead changes in the rematch of JMU's 2007 NCAA tournament game at Pittsburgh.
JMU plays against Wagner on Monday in the final game of the Holiday Classic, which is hosted by Wagner. The Seahawks (2-7) play Pittsburgh tomorrow and are looking to break a seven-game losing streak.
It looks as if relief is finally in the forecast for JMU.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Trying to Recover
While losing in overtime at Seton Hall must have been tough for the James Madison men's basketball team, for the women their recent fortunes have been even tougher.
Madison began the season 6-0 with four freshman starting, and their surprising start included a win over then-No. 14 George Washington. It was JMU's first win over a ranked opponent since the 1991 NCAA tournament, and extended the Dukes' NCAA-leading home win streak to 29.
Since that game JMU is 1-3, and has lost three straight. Two of those losses were on the road.
The Dukes play their next game at Pittsburgh (8-3), the team that knocked JMU out of the NCAA tournament last year in Pittsburgh. With such a young, inexperienced squad, how would you assess their chances of breaking out of a slump?
Madison began the season 6-0 with four freshman starting, and their surprising start included a win over then-No. 14 George Washington. It was JMU's first win over a ranked opponent since the 1991 NCAA tournament, and extended the Dukes' NCAA-leading home win streak to 29.
Since that game JMU is 1-3, and has lost three straight. Two of those losses were on the road.
The Dukes play their next game at Pittsburgh (8-3), the team that knocked JMU out of the NCAA tournament last year in Pittsburgh. With such a young, inexperienced squad, how would you assess their chances of breaking out of a slump?
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Looking for Recognition
While the James Madison basketball squads enjoy their time off for the holidays, you should be asking yourself where they stand as the new year approaches.
The men's team (7-2) gears up for a game Saturday against South Carolina State at Jim 'N Nick's Cougar Classic in Charleston, S.C. South Carolina State (4-8) shouldn't present too much of a challenge, and if Madison wins it will advance to play the winner of CofC vs. Mercer the next day. There is also a consolation game between losers Sunday.
I would be surprised if the Dukes aren't 9-2 heading into their second conference game against Virginia Commonwealth (8-3). The Rams are tied for second place in the Colonial Athletic Association behind JMU, and are ranked 11th in the CollegeInsider.com mid-major top 25 poll.
Meanwhile, Madison has yet to crack the same poll. The Dukes received 37 points are are fifth among teams not in the top 25, as far as votes in the Dec. 24 poll. The voting panel consists of 31 mid-major coaches and can be accessed here.
I'll get to the women's team tomorrow but right now ask yourself if you think the men are being overlooked by the college basketball media.
The men's team (7-2) gears up for a game Saturday against South Carolina State at Jim 'N Nick's Cougar Classic in Charleston, S.C. South Carolina State (4-8) shouldn't present too much of a challenge, and if Madison wins it will advance to play the winner of CofC vs. Mercer the next day. There is also a consolation game between losers Sunday.
I would be surprised if the Dukes aren't 9-2 heading into their second conference game against Virginia Commonwealth (8-3). The Rams are tied for second place in the Colonial Athletic Association behind JMU, and are ranked 11th in the CollegeInsider.com mid-major top 25 poll.
Meanwhile, Madison has yet to crack the same poll. The Dukes received 37 points are are fifth among teams not in the top 25, as far as votes in the Dec. 24 poll. The voting panel consists of 31 mid-major coaches and can be accessed here.
I'll get to the women's team tomorrow but right now ask yourself if you think the men are being overlooked by the college basketball media.
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Win Slips Away at Seton Hall
James Madison missed its chance to surpass last year's win total, and fell 112-110 in overtime to Big East opponent Seton Hall on Saturday.
Turnovers plagued Madison (7-2) at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. — Seton Hall forced 33 — but the Dukes' entire starting lineup reached double figures and had JMU leading for most of the game.
Point guard Pierre Curtis led the Dukes with 26 points as he shot 9-of-9 on free throws. Madison led Seton Hall (8-2) in field goal percentage, free throw percentage, rebounds, and assists, but a late 13-4 run by the Pirates sent the game into overtime. The game's leading scorer Eugene Harvey hit the go-ahead shot for Seton Hall and finished with 27 points.
Seton Hall beat Virginia 74-60 on Nov. 24, and the Pirates represent the only "major" conference opponent on JMU's schedule this season. Even though the Dukes let opportunity slip away, contending on the road with a team like Seton Hall has to instill confidence heading into nine conference games in January.
Turnovers plagued Madison (7-2) at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. — Seton Hall forced 33 — but the Dukes' entire starting lineup reached double figures and had JMU leading for most of the game.
Point guard Pierre Curtis led the Dukes with 26 points as he shot 9-of-9 on free throws. Madison led Seton Hall (8-2) in field goal percentage, free throw percentage, rebounds, and assists, but a late 13-4 run by the Pirates sent the game into overtime. The game's leading scorer Eugene Harvey hit the go-ahead shot for Seton Hall and finished with 27 points.
Seton Hall beat Virginia 74-60 on Nov. 24, and the Pirates represent the only "major" conference opponent on JMU's schedule this season. Even though the Dukes let opportunity slip away, contending on the road with a team like Seton Hall has to instill confidence heading into nine conference games in January.
Friday, December 21, 2007
The Streak Ends at 30
Senior forward Tamera Young notched her highest point total since James Madison's season opener against Harvard, but her 28-point performance wasn't enough to extend JMU's 30-game home winning streak against No. 5 Maryland as the Terrapins won 71-65 Thursday.
The Terrapins improved their record to 14-1, while JMU fell to 6-3. After starting the season 6-0, the Dukes have lost three straight games.
The game was tied at halftime, but Madison scored the first seven points of the second period and led by as many as 10. With four freshman starting this season for the Dukes, their recent slide isn't too surprising. But the play of one freshman in particular surprises me.
Point guard Dawn Evans was named Colonial Athletic Association Rookie of the Week three of the first four weeks this season, and the only week she didn't receive the award JMU didn't play a game. During that stretch, Evans shot 46% on field goals and JMU was 6-0.
Since a Nov. 30 game against Savannah State, Evans is shooting 26% from the field. For Madison to be successful, she has to break out of that slump.
Maryland beat JMU thanks to 49% field goal shooting and 40 rebounds, but if Evans was on her game its likely the outcome would have been different.
The Terrapins improved their record to 14-1, while JMU fell to 6-3. After starting the season 6-0, the Dukes have lost three straight games.
The game was tied at halftime, but Madison scored the first seven points of the second period and led by as many as 10. With four freshman starting this season for the Dukes, their recent slide isn't too surprising. But the play of one freshman in particular surprises me.
Point guard Dawn Evans was named Colonial Athletic Association Rookie of the Week three of the first four weeks this season, and the only week she didn't receive the award JMU didn't play a game. During that stretch, Evans shot 46% on field goals and JMU was 6-0.
Since a Nov. 30 game against Savannah State, Evans is shooting 26% from the field. For Madison to be successful, she has to break out of that slump.
Maryland beat JMU thanks to 49% field goal shooting and 40 rebounds, but if Evans was on her game its likely the outcome would have been different.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Another Comeback Win
Earlier this year James Madison beat the Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers 85-73 at the JMU Convocation Center. The final score was 85-73, and the Dukes held only a two-point lead at halftime (40-38).
After an 0-4 start, Mount St. Mary's has won six straight and sits in first place in the Northeast Conference at 6-4 (2-0 in the NEC).
The Radford Highlanders came into Harrisonburg with a 4-7 record, 1-6 on the road. So after JMU beat them by a deceiving 85-74 final score, the question is how were the Highlanders winning 37-32 at halftime?
A 12-day break for exams can take some of the credit, but JMU has a habit of playing down to competition it seems so far this year. But with a 7-1 record (1-0 in the Colonial Athletic Association), JMU has matched its highest win total in Keener's reign. Will the comebacks keep coming?
After an 0-4 start, Mount St. Mary's has won six straight and sits in first place in the Northeast Conference at 6-4 (2-0 in the NEC).
The Radford Highlanders came into Harrisonburg with a 4-7 record, 1-6 on the road. So after JMU beat them by a deceiving 85-74 final score, the question is how were the Highlanders winning 37-32 at halftime?
A 12-day break for exams can take some of the credit, but JMU has a habit of playing down to competition it seems so far this year. But with a 7-1 record (1-0 in the Colonial Athletic Association), JMU has matched its highest win total in Keener's reign. Will the comebacks keep coming?
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Mountaineers Make History, Fans React
Appalachian State became the first team in FCS football history to win three consecutive national championships with a 49-21 win over Delaware last night.
Quarterback Armanti Edwards threw three touchdowns on 9-of-15 passing, compiling 198 yards. Edwards also rushed for 89 yards, before senior backup QB Tyler Elder came in and rushed 53 yards for a touchdown with 3 minutes, 29 seconds left.
Elder drew a flag for celebration after scoring the Mountaineers' last touchdown, and the fans were standing on the sideline shortly thereafter. They remained there for the last few minutes, getting autographs from Appalachian players and encroaching on the field of play.
The question is: Should fans be allowed access to the sidelines with more than a couple minutes left in the game?
Quarterback Armanti Edwards threw three touchdowns on 9-of-15 passing, compiling 198 yards. Edwards also rushed for 89 yards, before senior backup QB Tyler Elder came in and rushed 53 yards for a touchdown with 3 minutes, 29 seconds left.
Elder drew a flag for celebration after scoring the Mountaineers' last touchdown, and the fans were standing on the sideline shortly thereafter. They remained there for the last few minutes, getting autographs from Appalachian players and encroaching on the field of play.
The question is: Should fans be allowed access to the sidelines with more than a couple minutes left in the game?
Friday, December 14, 2007
Make it Three for App. State
At the end of three quarters, Appalachian State leads Delaware 35-14 in the Football Champion Subdivision title game.
James Madison was the only team that held the Mountaineers under 30 points this season, and I can only imagine what it must feel like for JMU players to watch Appalachian march towards its third straight NCAA championship.
Appalachian quarterback Armanti Edwards has three passing touchdowns through as many quarters, but surprisingly hasn't rushed for a TD. He appears headed towards another 100-yard rushing performance though, as he has 82 yards on 16 carries with a quarter left.
While Madison fans can only wonder what could have been, Armanti Edwards is attracting Heisman attention for next season. That's right, Edwards will be a junior in 2008, and this Sports Illustrated article by Stewart Mandel points out that three I-AA players have finished in the top 10 of Heisman voting since the I-A/I-AA distinction was established in 1978. Among them: Jerry Rice.
Just something else to think about, other than what Madison could have accomplished if not for a failed fourth-down attempt at its own 32-yard line and a fumble inside the Appalachian 10-yard line with 25 seconds left.
James Madison was the only team that held the Mountaineers under 30 points this season, and I can only imagine what it must feel like for JMU players to watch Appalachian march towards its third straight NCAA championship.
Appalachian quarterback Armanti Edwards has three passing touchdowns through as many quarters, but surprisingly hasn't rushed for a TD. He appears headed towards another 100-yard rushing performance though, as he has 82 yards on 16 carries with a quarter left.
While Madison fans can only wonder what could have been, Armanti Edwards is attracting Heisman attention for next season. That's right, Edwards will be a junior in 2008, and this Sports Illustrated article by Stewart Mandel points out that three I-AA players have finished in the top 10 of Heisman voting since the I-A/I-AA distinction was established in 1978. Among them: Jerry Rice.
Just something else to think about, other than what Madison could have accomplished if not for a failed fourth-down attempt at its own 32-yard line and a fumble inside the Appalachian 10-yard line with 25 seconds left.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
BCS Champion vs. Dolphins
It's exam week, and JMU athletes are busy...so today I'm going to talk about my idea for a college football playoff system.
Because the bowl system won't be revised anytime soon, I suggest having the winner of LSU-Ohio State play the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, January 13. That gives the BCS champion almost a week to prepare, and the Dolphins will have sat for two weeks.
The Dolphins play against Baltimore this week, at New England after that, and against Cincinnati on Dec. 30. It's possible they could get a win in there, but its hard to choose between Baltimore or Cincinnati. Whatever happens, Armando Salguero at the "DOLPHINS IN DEPTH" blog says that coach Cam Cameron has alienated veteran players, and that's been a large part of his failure as a coach.
Back to the point — most people would give Miami an edge over any college team, but I'd like to know by how much. Let me know what you think.
Because the bowl system won't be revised anytime soon, I suggest having the winner of LSU-Ohio State play the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, January 13. That gives the BCS champion almost a week to prepare, and the Dolphins will have sat for two weeks.
The Dolphins play against Baltimore this week, at New England after that, and against Cincinnati on Dec. 30. It's possible they could get a win in there, but its hard to choose between Baltimore or Cincinnati. Whatever happens, Armando Salguero at the "DOLPHINS IN DEPTH" blog says that coach Cam Cameron has alienated veteran players, and that's been a large part of his failure as a coach.
Back to the point — most people would give Miami an edge over any college team, but I'd like to know by how much. Let me know what you think.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Sub-30
JMU shot a season-low 29.1 percent at Clemson and the Madison women's basketball team lost its second straight game, falling to 6-2.
Clemson (6-5) lost at JMU last year, 85-72, and shouldn't have presented much of a problem for a JMU squad that recently defeated a ranked opponent for the first time since 1991 in George Washington.
I would say the Dukes just need more experience in road games to avoid these losses. With four freshman starting, that's an easy explanation — but could it be anything else?
Clemson (6-5) lost at JMU last year, 85-72, and shouldn't have presented much of a problem for a JMU squad that recently defeated a ranked opponent for the first time since 1991 in George Washington.
I would say the Dukes just need more experience in road games to avoid these losses. With four freshman starting, that's an easy explanation — but could it be anything else?
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Dukes Spear Lancers
James Madison notched its fourth straight win, beating Longwood 84-52 on 57% shooting Wednesday night.
The Dukes (6-1, 1-0 Colonial Athletic Association) were led by guard Abdulai Jalloh with 23 points, and Madison led 46-26 at halftime. The dominating performance was expected against the Lancers (2-8), but JMU fans take nothing for granted — the team is one win short of its 2006-07 win total, as mediocrity has been the norm in recent years.
Jalloh has been heralded as the player who will bring the Dukes success, and the blueprint is working so far. Dazzmond Thornton is another transfer who has made an immediate impact. The 6-foot-7 forward is averaging 7 points and 3.2 rebounds a game, in only 13.7 minutes a game.
JMU's next contest is Dec. 17 when Radford (3-6) comes to Harrisonburg, but the game after that will be a true barometer. The Dukes play at Seton Hall (7-1) on Dec. 22. The Pirates boast a November win over Virginia, and will be heavy favorites at home.
The Dukes (6-1, 1-0 Colonial Athletic Association) were led by guard Abdulai Jalloh with 23 points, and Madison led 46-26 at halftime. The dominating performance was expected against the Lancers (2-8), but JMU fans take nothing for granted — the team is one win short of its 2006-07 win total, as mediocrity has been the norm in recent years.
Jalloh has been heralded as the player who will bring the Dukes success, and the blueprint is working so far. Dazzmond Thornton is another transfer who has made an immediate impact. The 6-foot-7 forward is averaging 7 points and 3.2 rebounds a game, in only 13.7 minutes a game.
JMU's next contest is Dec. 17 when Radford (3-6) comes to Harrisonburg, but the game after that will be a true barometer. The Dukes play at Seton Hall (7-1) on Dec. 22. The Pirates boast a November win over Virginia, and will be heavy favorites at home.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
First Loss for Women's Basketball
James Madison women's basketball fell to 6-1 after losing at Liberty on Tuesday night, 79-66. The closest JMU got in the second half was 59-54 with nine minutes, 51 seconds remaining.
A telling statistic: JMU made only four of 22 three pointers, and freshman point guard Dawn Evans made just one of 12 attempts from behind the arc. The Dukes made 36.1% of their field goal attempts, while Liberty made 52.8%. For more on the game, read this article from the Daily News-Record.
Dawn Evans was just named Colonial Athletic Assocation Rookie of the Week for the third time in four weeks, but it's safe to say somebody else will get the award after this week.
A telling statistic: JMU made only four of 22 three pointers, and freshman point guard Dawn Evans made just one of 12 attempts from behind the arc. The Dukes made 36.1% of their field goal attempts, while Liberty made 52.8%. For more on the game, read this article from the Daily News-Record.
Dawn Evans was just named Colonial Athletic Assocation Rookie of the Week for the third time in four weeks, but it's safe to say somebody else will get the award after this week.
Monday, December 3, 2007
BCS Situation: LSU vs. Ohio State
SEC champions vs. Big 10 champions.
I've been saying for years that the Big 10 is overrated, and teams from that conference load their schedules with easy games that lead to inflated records. At 11-1, the Buckeyes have a sterling record, but I think there are more deserving teams for the championship.
Here's an opposing opinion, from David McKinney's Ohio State blog. Big surprise he favors the Buckeyes in the title game.
I don't know many people that support the BCS system, but let's go straight to the matchup. Who honestly thinks Ohio State stands a chance, especially right in LSU's backyard (New Orleans)?
I've been saying for years that the Big 10 is overrated, and teams from that conference load their schedules with easy games that lead to inflated records. At 11-1, the Buckeyes have a sterling record, but I think there are more deserving teams for the championship.
Here's an opposing opinion, from David McKinney's Ohio State blog. Big surprise he favors the Buckeyes in the title game.
I don't know many people that support the BCS system, but let's go straight to the matchup. Who honestly thinks Ohio State stands a chance, especially right in LSU's backyard (New Orleans)?
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Basketball Looking Good
James Madison has two strong basketball teams this year, instead of just one. Maybe it's too early to call the men's team "strong," but after a Colonial Athletic Association win on the road, speculation is sure to begin.
The men (5-1 overall, 1-0 in the conference) don't play any more CAA games until January, and the women (6-0 overall, 0-0 in the conference) play their first conference games in the same month. The win over George Washington validated their success so far, though.
When the NCAA makes its selections for the Big Dance, early season success often has less influence than quality of play down the stretch. Should it be that way?
The men (5-1 overall, 1-0 in the conference) don't play any more CAA games until January, and the women (6-0 overall, 0-0 in the conference) play their first conference games in the same month. The win over George Washington validated their success so far, though.
When the NCAA makes its selections for the Big Dance, early season success often has less influence than quality of play down the stretch. Should it be that way?
Friday, November 30, 2007
Bowl Season!
Louisville did something James Madison couldn't do last week and kicked a game-winning field goal, becoming bowl eligible after a 41-38 win over Rutgers on Thursday night.
The Cardinals finished 6-6 overall, 3-4 in the conference, salvaging a disappointing season with their win and becoming bowl eligible. Rutgers (7-5, 3-4) also had a bit of a letdown year after finishing 10-2 in the regular season last year.
Bowl season is about to begin, and I want to hear all your complaints about it — I know you have plenty.
The Cardinals finished 6-6 overall, 3-4 in the conference, salvaging a disappointing season with their win and becoming bowl eligible. Rutgers (7-5, 3-4) also had a bit of a letdown year after finishing 10-2 in the regular season last year.
Bowl season is about to begin, and I want to hear all your complaints about it — I know you have plenty.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Men Handle Colonels
JMU senior forward Terrance Carter led the Dukes with 17 points and five JMU players reached double figures in an 82-71 victory for the men's basketball team Wednesday at Eastern Kentucky.
Madison (4-1) overcame an early 18-7 deficit and led the Colonels 37-32 at halftime. The Dukes shot an impressive 27-34 in free throws, as Carter shot 9-9 from the line.
The Dukes face a tough task Friday at Northeastern (2-3). Despite their 13-19 record in 2006, the Huskies were 10-2 at home with victories over Hofstra and George Mason — here's their schedule from last year. If JMU improves to 5-1, is it time to expect double-digit wins this season?
Madison (4-1) overcame an early 18-7 deficit and led the Colonels 37-32 at halftime. The Dukes shot an impressive 27-34 in free throws, as Carter shot 9-9 from the line.
The Dukes face a tough task Friday at Northeastern (2-3). Despite their 13-19 record in 2006, the Huskies were 10-2 at home with victories over Hofstra and George Mason — here's their schedule from last year. If JMU improves to 5-1, is it time to expect double-digit wins this season?
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
JMU 5-0
James Madison senior forward Tamera Young scored 20 points and freshman point guard Dawn Evans added 19 as the women’s basketball team defeated No. 15 George Washington 80-55, continuing to silence any talk of a “rebuilding” year.
Madison (5-0) last beat a ranked opponent March 16, 1991 at No. 1 Penn State, and coach Kenny Brooks was a senior on the JMU men’s basketball team that year.
JMU more than doubled No. 15 George Washington’s rebound total Tuesday night as JMU extended its home winning streak to 29 games, the longest active streak in Division I. JMU grabbed 53 rebounds and GW (5-2) had only 26, as Young led the Dukes with 14.
Madison plays Savannah State (2-1) on Friday at the JMU Convocation Center. The Dukes won 77-48 in last year’s contest, which was also played in Harrisonburg. How many games will the Dukes go unbeaten?
Madison (5-0) last beat a ranked opponent March 16, 1991 at No. 1 Penn State, and coach Kenny Brooks was a senior on the JMU men’s basketball team that year.
JMU more than doubled No. 15 George Washington’s rebound total Tuesday night as JMU extended its home winning streak to 29 games, the longest active streak in Division I. JMU grabbed 53 rebounds and GW (5-2) had only 26, as Young led the Dukes with 14.
Madison plays Savannah State (2-1) on Friday at the JMU Convocation Center. The Dukes won 77-48 in last year’s contest, which was also played in Harrisonburg. How many games will the Dukes go unbeaten?
Monday, November 26, 2007
Preserving First Place?
James Madison women's basketball returns from its seven-day layoff against No. 15 George Washington at the JMU Convocation Center on Tuesday.
The Dukes (4-0) are tied with UNC-Wilmington and Virginia Commonwealth for first place in the Colonial Athletic Association, and face a GW team that has only lost to No. 7 Rutgers. The Colonials (5-1) won 68-56 over JMU last year in Washington, D.C.
Madison has the longest active home winning streak in Division I women's basketball with 28 straight wins. The last JMU victory was Nov. 18 against Wake Forest (5-1).
JMU senior guard Tamera Young leads the Dukes in scoring with 20.0 ppg, and junior forward Kisha Stokes leads the conference with 10.5 rpg. Freshman guard Dawn Evans leads the team with 5.3 apg, and recently earned CAA Rookie of the Week honors. Can Young and the new supporting cast upset the Colonials and preserve the nation's best home winning streak?
The Dukes (4-0) are tied with UNC-Wilmington and Virginia Commonwealth for first place in the Colonial Athletic Association, and face a GW team that has only lost to No. 7 Rutgers. The Colonials (5-1) won 68-56 over JMU last year in Washington, D.C.
Madison has the longest active home winning streak in Division I women's basketball with 28 straight wins. The last JMU victory was Nov. 18 against Wake Forest (5-1).
JMU senior guard Tamera Young leads the Dukes in scoring with 20.0 ppg, and junior forward Kisha Stokes leads the conference with 10.5 rpg. Freshman guard Dawn Evans leads the team with 5.3 apg, and recently earned CAA Rookie of the Week honors. Can Young and the new supporting cast upset the Colonials and preserve the nation's best home winning streak?
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Men's Basketball Gets Third Win
The James Madison men's basketball team rebounded from Wednesday's loss at VMI with an 85-73 win over Mount St. Mary's on Saturday at the JMU Convocation Center.
JMU (3-1) was 79% in free throws on 30-38 shooting after going 38% from the stripe Wednesday. Madison led by two at the half and outscored the Mount St. Mary's 45-35 in the second period, as the Mountaineers fell to 0-3 this season.
Madison plays at Eastern Kentucky (2-3) on Wednesday, and EKU defeated Madison 70-66 last year in Harrisonburg. With the Colonels coming off a 78-43 thrashing at No. 10 Duke, do you think Madison can hand EKU its third straight loss?
JMU (3-1) was 79% in free throws on 30-38 shooting after going 38% from the stripe Wednesday. Madison led by two at the half and outscored the Mount St. Mary's 45-35 in the second period, as the Mountaineers fell to 0-3 this season.
Madison plays at Eastern Kentucky (2-3) on Wednesday, and EKU defeated Madison 70-66 last year in Harrisonburg. With the Colonels coming off a 78-43 thrashing at No. 10 Duke, do you think Madison can hand EKU its third straight loss?
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Madison Fumbles Away Victory
With less than 30 seconds left in the football game, James Madison trailed Appalachian State 28-27 at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone, N.C.
On the ASU 9-yard line, JMU chose to execute a rushing play on second down instead of a field goal, and redshirt freshman tailback Jamal Sullivan fumbled the ball that ASU recovered to seal its victory.
A similar situation occurred three weeks ago when redshirt freshman tailback Griff Yancey fumbled with two minutes, 15 seconds remaining at Delaware. The Dukes were down by three and in Delaware territory, and that fumble was on JMU's last real drive.
These circumstances call for one question: If Eugene Holloman didn't injure his knee against New Hampshire and played the entire season, what kind of success would JMU have had in the playoffs?
On the ASU 9-yard line, JMU chose to execute a rushing play on second down instead of a field goal, and redshirt freshman tailback Jamal Sullivan fumbled the ball that ASU recovered to seal its victory.
A similar situation occurred three weeks ago when redshirt freshman tailback Griff Yancey fumbled with two minutes, 15 seconds remaining at Delaware. The Dukes were down by three and in Delaware territory, and that fumble was on JMU's last real drive.
These circumstances call for one question: If Eugene Holloman didn't injure his knee against New Hampshire and played the entire season, what kind of success would JMU have had in the playoffs?
Friday, November 23, 2007
Delaware Cruises into Quarters
The NCAA Football Championships started today as Delaware won 44-7 over Delaware State in the only Friday matchup, televised on ESPN2.
Senior tailback Omar Cuff carried the ball 38 times for 288 yards and four touchdowns for the Blue Hens.
Cuff was one of six Delaware players named All-CAA First Team, and was joined by senior quarterback Joe Flacco and junior receier Aaron Love. Delaware will face Northern Iowa or New Hampshire in the second round.
James Madison plays Appalachian State at noon Saturday, and a victory would bring McNeese State or Eastern Washington in the quarterfinals for the Dukes.
Senior tailback Omar Cuff carried the ball 38 times for 288 yards and four touchdowns for the Blue Hens.
Cuff was one of six Delaware players named All-CAA First Team, and was joined by senior quarterback Joe Flacco and junior receier Aaron Love. Delaware will face Northern Iowa or New Hampshire in the second round.
James Madison plays Appalachian State at noon Saturday, and a victory would bring McNeese State or Eastern Washington in the quarterfinals for the Dukes.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
...Not for Long
VMI guard Reggie Williams scored 30 points and VMI handed James Madison its first loss, a 90-83 defeat.
JMU (2-1) lost to VMI (2-2) for the first time in nine matchups, and fell into a tie for fourth place in the conference with Towson.
Bad timing for a misstep.
JMU (2-1) lost to VMI (2-2) for the first time in nine matchups, and fell into a tie for fourth place in the conference with Towson.
Bad timing for a misstep.
JMU No. 2 in CAA basketball
After Drexel lost at Virginia 72-58 last night, James Madison is one of only two unbeaten Colonial Athletic Association teams. JMU (2-0) trails only George Mason (3-0), who plays at No. 22 Kansas State in a Thanksgiving matchup.
JMU's third game is just underway in Lexington, Va. as JMU looks to remain one of the top two teams in the conference. VMI is the second worst team in the Big South conference at 1-2.
The Dukes play winless Mount St. Mary's (0-2) in Harrisonburg on Saturday. Next four opponents: Eastern Kentucky (2-1), Northeastern (1-2), Longwood (2-3), and Radford (1-4). In their first eight games, do you think the Dukes can match their win total of seven from last season?
JMU's third game is just underway in Lexington, Va. as JMU looks to remain one of the top two teams in the conference. VMI is the second worst team in the Big South conference at 1-2.
The Dukes play winless Mount St. Mary's (0-2) in Harrisonburg on Saturday. Next four opponents: Eastern Kentucky (2-1), Northeastern (1-2), Longwood (2-3), and Radford (1-4). In their first eight games, do you think the Dukes can match their win total of seven from last season?
Monday, November 19, 2007
Fast-paced Foray
Madison travels to Lexington for its second road game Wednesday, and the backcourt will be tested by VMI in a high-scoring affair.
Last season, the Dukes won 89-87 and attempted 48 free throws in the contest.
Junior transfer Abdulai Jalloh leads JMU in scoring with 18.5 points a game, and is averaging 86.7% from the free-throw line. If Jalloh and the Dukes can sustain their improved free-throw shooting in Lexington, JMU will likely improve to 3-0 this season.
Here's an article from the Daily News-Record that examines Madison's "free throw ladder." If JMU doesn't shoot well from the stripe, three-point shooting by last year's highest-scoring Division I offense (100.9 ppg) will make things interesting.
Last season, the Dukes won 89-87 and attempted 48 free throws in the contest.
Junior transfer Abdulai Jalloh leads JMU in scoring with 18.5 points a game, and is averaging 86.7% from the free-throw line. If Jalloh and the Dukes can sustain their improved free-throw shooting in Lexington, JMU will likely improve to 3-0 this season.
Here's an article from the Daily News-Record that examines Madison's "free throw ladder." If JMU doesn't shoot well from the stripe, three-point shooting by last year's highest-scoring Division I offense (100.9 ppg) will make things interesting.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Sooners Suffer QB Injury
Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford left the game with a concussion after the Sooners' second possession, and Texas Tech outscored Oklahoma 24-3 in the remainder of the first half on its way to a 34-27 upset of the then fourth-ranked Sooners.
No. 10 Oklahoma (9-2 overall, 5-2 in the Big 12) fell into a tie with No. 13 Texas (9-2, 5-2) for the Big 12 South title, and the Sooners' loss is No. 5 Ohio State's gain.
No. 2 Kansas plays No. 4 Missouri on Saturday, and the winner of that game will play either Oklahoma or Texas in the Big 12 championship. If the Big 12 North champion loses in the title game, Ohio State could rise to No. 2 in the BCS. A loss by No. 3 West Virginia would be the last domino that needs to fall for the Buckeyes to make the BCS title game.
No. 10 Oklahoma (9-2 overall, 5-2 in the Big 12) fell into a tie with No. 13 Texas (9-2, 5-2) for the Big 12 South title, and the Sooners' loss is No. 5 Ohio State's gain.
No. 2 Kansas plays No. 4 Missouri on Saturday, and the winner of that game will play either Oklahoma or Texas in the Big 12 championship. If the Big 12 North champion loses in the title game, Ohio State could rise to No. 2 in the BCS. A loss by No. 3 West Virginia would be the last domino that needs to fall for the Buckeyes to make the BCS title game.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Purple Over Green
The James Madison men's basketball team avenged a 74-70 loss last season and won 72-57 over Dartmouth in the Big Green's 2007-08 home opener. JMU junior transfer Abdulai Jalloh scored early in his second game with the Dukes as he tallied 22 points Saturday, 13 in the first half.
Madison (2-0) won its first road game of the season, and travels again for a contest at Virginia Military Institute on Wednesday. The Keydets run a fast-paced offense and led the nation in scoring for the 2006-07 season with 100.9 points a game.
JMU should win its third game in Lexington, Va., but the real question is: playing at such a high tempo, will Jalloh elevate his point total to 30 points or more?
Madison (2-0) won its first road game of the season, and travels again for a contest at Virginia Military Institute on Wednesday. The Keydets run a fast-paced offense and led the nation in scoring for the 2006-07 season with 100.9 points a game.
JMU should win its third game in Lexington, Va., but the real question is: playing at such a high tempo, will Jalloh elevate his point total to 30 points or more?
Buckeyes Eye Rose Bowl
No. 7 Ohio State rebounded from a 28-21 loss to Illinois, and No. 21 Michigan's season ended right where it started: in disappointment.
After losing its first two games and then putting together an eight-game win streak, Michigan closed out regular-season play with two straight losses. The Wolverines (8-4, 6-2) lost their chance to play in the Rose Bowl, and coach Lloyd Carr fell to 1-6 against Ohio State coach Jim Tressel.
The Buckeyes (11-1, 7-1) have a slim chance of making the BCS Championship Game, but must rely on four teams ahead of them losing first. The most likely scenario puts Ohio State in the Rose Bowl against another BCS conference winner.
One of the teams that must lose for Ohio State to have a shot at the national championship is No. 6 West Virginia, which plays at No. 22 Cincinnati tonight. Will the Buckeyes like the result?
After losing its first two games and then putting together an eight-game win streak, Michigan closed out regular-season play with two straight losses. The Wolverines (8-4, 6-2) lost their chance to play in the Rose Bowl, and coach Lloyd Carr fell to 1-6 against Ohio State coach Jim Tressel.
The Buckeyes (11-1, 7-1) have a slim chance of making the BCS Championship Game, but must rely on four teams ahead of them losing first. The most likely scenario puts Ohio State in the Rose Bowl against another BCS conference winner.
One of the teams that must lose for Ohio State to have a shot at the national championship is No. 6 West Virginia, which plays at No. 22 Cincinnati tonight. Will the Buckeyes like the result?
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Leader of the Ducks
No. 2 Oregon plays at Arizona tonight (9 pm., ESPN) and looks to move into a tie with No. 8 Arizona State for first place in the Pac-10 conference.
Oregon (8-1 overall, 5-1 in the conference) is led by quarterback and Heisman candidate Dennis Dixon, who has thrown for 20 touchdowns and rushed for eight this season.
Arizona (4-6, 3-4) appears on its way to its ninth straight losing season, and hasn't played a bowl game since 1998. The Wildcats had a bye last week, which gives them two significant advantages in the Thursday night game (the other being home field).
Arizona State (9-1, 6-1) has a bye in Week 12, and plays in the featured Week 13 Thursday night game against USC in Sun Devil Stadium.
Oregon (8-1 overall, 5-1 in the conference) is led by quarterback and Heisman candidate Dennis Dixon, who has thrown for 20 touchdowns and rushed for eight this season.
Arizona (4-6, 3-4) appears on its way to its ninth straight losing season, and hasn't played a bowl game since 1998. The Wildcats had a bye last week, which gives them two significant advantages in the Thursday night game (the other being home field).
Arizona State (9-1, 6-1) has a bye in Week 12, and plays in the featured Week 13 Thursday night game against USC in Sun Devil Stadium.
Monday, November 12, 2007
NCAA Tournament Special
The JMU women's soccer team qualified for the NCAA tournament today in a delayed announcement. ESPNews sponsored the event, but waited until 8:22 to announce the matchups when it was scheduled for 8:00-8:30.
Years ago, the NCAA sponsored the announcement and devoted a full half-hour show to it. Women's soccer is approaching the level of basketball at the collegiate level, so why would ESPN relegate the selection show to this level?
Madison plays Pennsylvania University at Morgantown, W.va., on Friday. The Dukes started out their season with a scrimmage at West Virginia and lost. In the first round of the NCAA tournament, don't expect a lackluster performance.
Years ago, the NCAA sponsored the announcement and devoted a full half-hour show to it. Women's soccer is approaching the level of basketball at the collegiate level, so why would ESPN relegate the selection show to this level?
Madison plays Pennsylvania University at Morgantown, W.va., on Friday. The Dukes started out their season with a scrimmage at West Virginia and lost. In the first round of the NCAA tournament, don't expect a lackluster performance.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Showdown Set for Nov. 24
With victories by Virginia and Virginia Tech Saturday, the stage is set for both teams' last regular season game in Charlottesville. The winner will play in the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game — it's that simple.
UVA has a bye in week 12, and the Hokies play against Miami at Lane Stadium. I was impressed by my experience at the Boston College game three weeks ago, and I expect Virginia Tech fans will show no mercy to a Hurricane squad that suffered a 48-0 loss to UVA in its last game at the historic Orange Bowl.
Virginia Tech's 40-21 rout of Florida State was not as staggering as the score suggests, but coach Beamer notched his first win against the Seminoles nonetheless. He is now 1-7 against Florida State.
I'm a bit confused though — with Virginia a half game ahead of the Hokies in the ACC Coastal Division and overall, why is VT four spots ahead of the Cavaliers in the BCS standings?
UVA has a bye in week 12, and the Hokies play against Miami at Lane Stadium. I was impressed by my experience at the Boston College game three weeks ago, and I expect Virginia Tech fans will show no mercy to a Hurricane squad that suffered a 48-0 loss to UVA in its last game at the historic Orange Bowl.
Virginia Tech's 40-21 rout of Florida State was not as staggering as the score suggests, but coach Beamer notched his first win against the Seminoles nonetheless. He is now 1-7 against Florida State.
I'm a bit confused though — with Virginia a half game ahead of the Hokies in the ACC Coastal Division and overall, why is VT four spots ahead of the Cavaliers in the BCS standings?
Friday, November 9, 2007
White Burns Louisville
The Big East has finally whittled its list of likely BCS contenders down to two.
West Virginia quarterback Pat White's 50-yard touchdown run with 1:36 left against Louisville gave the Mountaineers a 38-31 lead and their eighth win. WVU (8-1 overall, 3-1 in the Big East) now trails only Connecticut (8-1, 4-0), who is set to play at Cincinnati (7-2, 2-2) on Saturday.
Last year's Lou Groza award winner, Louisville kicker Art Carmody, tied the game with 3:05 left - but WVU's multifaceted attack struck right back. White exploited a seam in the Cardinal defense for the games' longest touchdown.
James Madison's option offense has often been compared to WVU's attack. The question is, will Madison be able to avoid the costly turnovers that have plagued them two games in a row when it travels to Willam & Mary?
West Virginia quarterback Pat White's 50-yard touchdown run with 1:36 left against Louisville gave the Mountaineers a 38-31 lead and their eighth win. WVU (8-1 overall, 3-1 in the Big East) now trails only Connecticut (8-1, 4-0), who is set to play at Cincinnati (7-2, 2-2) on Saturday.
Last year's Lou Groza award winner, Louisville kicker Art Carmody, tied the game with 3:05 left - but WVU's multifaceted attack struck right back. White exploited a seam in the Cardinal defense for the games' longest touchdown.
James Madison's option offense has often been compared to WVU's attack. The question is, will Madison be able to avoid the costly turnovers that have plagued them two games in a row when it travels to Willam & Mary?
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Gettin' Back on the Ball
The official temperature was 45 degrees for JMU's first round Colonial Athletic Association tournament game against George Mason. It felt like it was cold enough for snow.
James Madison battled GMU for a 2-1 victory, and advanced to the semifinal round in Virginia Beach, Va. I stood on the sideline for the entire game, because the metal benches were absolutely freezing.
Coach Lombardo notched his 300th win thanks to goals by senior forward Annie Lowry and junior forward Megan Deaver. When asked to evaluate the team's performance, Lowry said "We're finally getting back on the ball, playing the offense we can," but also gave GMU senior goalkeeper Kasey Davenport credit for her seven saves.
Madison plays Hofstra on Friday in the CAA semifinals, and if it wins JMU would play the winner of VCU/ODU on Sunday. How would you evaluate their chances to win the conference tournament?
James Madison battled GMU for a 2-1 victory, and advanced to the semifinal round in Virginia Beach, Va. I stood on the sideline for the entire game, because the metal benches were absolutely freezing.
Coach Lombardo notched his 300th win thanks to goals by senior forward Annie Lowry and junior forward Megan Deaver. When asked to evaluate the team's performance, Lowry said "We're finally getting back on the ball, playing the offense we can," but also gave GMU senior goalkeeper Kasey Davenport credit for her seven saves.
Madison plays Hofstra on Friday in the CAA semifinals, and if it wins JMU would play the winner of VCU/ODU on Sunday. How would you evaluate their chances to win the conference tournament?
Monday, November 5, 2007
On the Edge
James Madison fell to No. 16 in The Sports Network's poll following a 37-34 loss at Delaware in Colonial Athletic Association play. The Dukes had two running backs with 171 yards rushing or better, and still lost to their CAA South Division rivals.
JMU entered the game in a three-way tie with Delaware and Richmond for the South Division lead, but fell to third place with a record of 6-3 overall, 4-2 in the conference. No. 9-ranked Richmond and No. 6-ranked Delaware are set for another showdown Saturday at Richmond; both teams are 5-1 in the CAA.
Madison travels to William and Mary on Saturday and will look for its fourth straight win in the series. With two games left, the Dukes must win both to gain playoff consideration. Only 16 teams make the playoffs — eight automatic bids and eight at-large bids. Will finishing 8-3 be enough to earn Madison a playoff game?
JMU entered the game in a three-way tie with Delaware and Richmond for the South Division lead, but fell to third place with a record of 6-3 overall, 4-2 in the conference. No. 9-ranked Richmond and No. 6-ranked Delaware are set for another showdown Saturday at Richmond; both teams are 5-1 in the CAA.
Madison travels to William and Mary on Saturday and will look for its fourth straight win in the series. With two games left, the Dukes must win both to gain playoff consideration. Only 16 teams make the playoffs — eight automatic bids and eight at-large bids. Will finishing 8-3 be enough to earn Madison a playoff game?
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Mikell Makes it Five
Virginia made history Saturday when it won 17-16 over Wake Forest, notching the Cavaliers' fifth win of the season by two points or less. Mikell Simpson's 1-yard rushing touchdown with 2:18 left in the game was enough to salvage a win against the Demon Deacons (6-2 overall, 4-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference).
Columbia previously held the NCAA record with four such wins in 1971. The Lions finished 5-4-1 that year, which is referenced in this article.
Walking on Alderman Road before the game, there were scalpers offering tickets for 10 dollars. I'd say anyone who invested in those got their money's worth.
The Cavaliers (8-2 overall, 5-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference) are now back in the Coastal Division lead, a half game ahead of Virginia Tech. If Virginia wins its season finale against the Hokies on Nov. 24, it will play in the ACC championship game. Will home-field advantage be enough to advance?
Columbia previously held the NCAA record with four such wins in 1971. The Lions finished 5-4-1 that year, which is referenced in this article.
Walking on Alderman Road before the game, there were scalpers offering tickets for 10 dollars. I'd say anyone who invested in those got their money's worth.
The Cavaliers (8-2 overall, 5-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference) are now back in the Coastal Division lead, a half game ahead of Virginia Tech. If Virginia wins its season finale against the Hokies on Nov. 24, it will play in the ACC championship game. Will home-field advantage be enough to advance?
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Magic Marker Man
Quarterback Sean Glennon led Virginia Tech to a 27-3 bounce-back win at Georgia Tech on Thursday night, completing 22 of 32 passing attempts for 297 yards and two touchdowns. Glennon was one of four players who had their jersey stolen, but he shrugged it off and led the Hokies to their highest offensive output of the season.
With his name written on the back of a replacement jersey in magic marker, Glennon led Virginia Tech to 481 total yards, their highest total of the season.
Virginia Tech kicker Jud Dunleavy tricked the Yellow Jackets with an onside kick after the Hokies' first score, and they capitalized on the recovery. Glennon rushed for a two-yard score on that drive early in the second quarter, putting the Hokies ahead for good at 10-3.
The win improved Virginia Tech's road record to 14-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference since beginning ACC play in 2004.
A classic example of Beamer Ball, but I have to ask: what happens if Georgia Tech makes that recovery?
With his name written on the back of a replacement jersey in magic marker, Glennon led Virginia Tech to 481 total yards, their highest total of the season.
Virginia Tech kicker Jud Dunleavy tricked the Yellow Jackets with an onside kick after the Hokies' first score, and they capitalized on the recovery. Glennon rushed for a two-yard score on that drive early in the second quarter, putting the Hokies ahead for good at 10-3.
The win improved Virginia Tech's road record to 14-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference since beginning ACC play in 2004.
A classic example of Beamer Ball, but I have to ask: what happens if Georgia Tech makes that recovery?
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Hoo's Wearing a Costume?
When the Virginia football team lost to North Carolina State on Saturday, UVA's seven-game winning streak ended and the Wahoos left Virginia Tech hot on their heels in the Coastal Division.
With a win against NC State, the worst team in the Atlantic Division, UVA would have advanced its record to 5-0 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Hokies would be 1.5 games behind with a 3-1 record.
Because it lost, No. 23 Virginia is only half a game ahead of the Hokies, and faces a challenge in No. 24 Wake Forest on Saturday at Scott Stadium. While Virginia has home-field advantage, I'm wondering — will UVA throw on a Halloween costume and win by more than five points?
An article here talks about how Virginia doesn't have a bye week until the 12th week of the season. The Cavaliers have had substantial running back injuries this year, and even with Mikell Simpson stepping up, you have to wonder how well the offense can perform down the stretch.
With a win against NC State, the worst team in the Atlantic Division, UVA would have advanced its record to 5-0 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Hokies would be 1.5 games behind with a 3-1 record.
Because it lost, No. 23 Virginia is only half a game ahead of the Hokies, and faces a challenge in No. 24 Wake Forest on Saturday at Scott Stadium. While Virginia has home-field advantage, I'm wondering — will UVA throw on a Halloween costume and win by more than five points?
An article here talks about how Virginia doesn't have a bye week until the 12th week of the season. The Cavaliers have had substantial running back injuries this year, and even with Mikell Simpson stepping up, you have to wonder how well the offense can perform down the stretch.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Madison Falls to No. 12
Following a 17-16 loss to then No. 14-ranked Richmond, James Madison fell six spots to No. 12 in The Sports Network's poll. Saturday's Homecoming game was a defensive battle, with Madison totaling only 256 yards on offense and Richmond compiling 245.
Richmond rose to No. 11, and No. 7 Delaware awaits Madison in Newark on Saturday. Tailback Eugene Holloman's absence becomes more glaring every week, and the inexperience of JMU's skill position players is manifesting itself in costly turnovers. Two fumbles against Richmond gave the Spiders the deciding score.
Delaware defeated Football Bowl Subdivision opponent Navy on Saturday, 59-52. Madison sits in a three-way tie with Richmond and Delaware for first place in the CAA South Division. How would you evaluate JMU's chances to keep a share of the top spot Saturday?
Richmond rose to No. 11, and No. 7 Delaware awaits Madison in Newark on Saturday. Tailback Eugene Holloman's absence becomes more glaring every week, and the inexperience of JMU's skill position players is manifesting itself in costly turnovers. Two fumbles against Richmond gave the Spiders the deciding score.
Delaware defeated Football Bowl Subdivision opponent Navy on Saturday, 59-52. Madison sits in a three-way tie with Richmond and Delaware for first place in the CAA South Division. How would you evaluate JMU's chances to keep a share of the top spot Saturday?
Friday, October 26, 2007
Lane Stadium Holds its Breath
When Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan threw his second touchdown of the game with 11 seconds left in regulation, he gave the Eagles a 14-10 lead and left Lane Stadium silent. Hokie fans held their breath, waiting for a flag to be thrown. However, there was no holding this time, and Ryan's scrambling throw across his body was the final score.
The atmosphere at Lane Stadium was electric. The Hokies didn't accomplish much offensively, but their defense was stout for most of the game and provided reason to make noise. The capacity crowd of 66,233 did all it could to establish home field advantage throughout the game.
Boston College extended their record away from home to 21-8 since 2003, the fifth-best mark in that category, as pointed out in this article. The Eagles will likely remain the No. 2-ranked team in the BCS, but do they really deserve it after such a shaky performance?
The atmosphere at Lane Stadium was electric. The Hokies didn't accomplish much offensively, but their defense was stout for most of the game and provided reason to make noise. The capacity crowd of 66,233 did all it could to establish home field advantage throughout the game.
Boston College extended their record away from home to 21-8 since 2003, the fifth-best mark in that category, as pointed out in this article. The Eagles will likely remain the No. 2-ranked team in the BCS, but do they really deserve it after such a shaky performance?
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Quarterback Situation
While Virginia Tech fans wonder who will start at quarterback for the Hokies on Thursday, Boston College Heisman candidate Matt Ryan aims for his 18th touchdown of the season. Working in his favor is the fact that he and 16 of his teammates are graduate students.
That's right, and 12 of them are starters. Half of Boston College's starting roster comply with NCAA rules by taking night classes. College football coaches are limited to 20 hours of practice and meeting time a week, but when half of your team has a free schedule every day of the week, voluntary workouts are easier for athletes to coordinate.
ESPN.com's Ivan Maisel has more on this topic at at his weekly column I-Formation.
Boston College and Virginia Tech are coming off of bye weeks, so both will be well-rested. The offensive (BC) vs. defensive (VT) matchup should provide for some big plays, and oh yea, there are also BCS implications. Enjoy the Atlantic Coast Conference showdown.
That's right, and 12 of them are starters. Half of Boston College's starting roster comply with NCAA rules by taking night classes. College football coaches are limited to 20 hours of practice and meeting time a week, but when half of your team has a free schedule every day of the week, voluntary workouts are easier for athletes to coordinate.
ESPN.com's Ivan Maisel has more on this topic at at his weekly column I-Formation.
Boston College and Virginia Tech are coming off of bye weeks, so both will be well-rested. The offensive (BC) vs. defensive (VT) matchup should provide for some big plays, and oh yea, there are also BCS implications. Enjoy the Atlantic Coast Conference showdown.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Movin' On Up
Following a bye week, James Madison moved up to No. 6 in both The Sports Network and FCS Coaches polls following losses by Appalachian State and Wofford. While the same five teams are ahead of JMU in both polls, there is some debate as to whether or not Montana deserves to be one of them. The Grizzlies play in a conference with no teams ranked in the top 25, other than themselves.
Colin O'Keefe at The Grizzoulian said, "The Griz racked up an impressive 627 yards and 52 points in their dominant win over Northern Colorado but who really knows what that means ... the next two games should be a better indicator than this win over a team that hasn't beat a Division I team since moving up."
Montana plays at Big Sky rival Northern Arizona on Oct. 27, the second-place team in the conference. Meanwhile, Madison faces a challenge in No. 14 Richmond at Bridgeforth Stadium on Saturday.
The Spiders trounced Rhode Island 38-6 over the weekend, continuing to rebound from an Oct. 6 upset at the last place team in the CAA South Division, Towson. However, Richmond is a top-15 opponent. If JMU and Montana both win Saturday, who deserves to be ranked higher?
Colin O'Keefe at The Grizzoulian said, "The Griz racked up an impressive 627 yards and 52 points in their dominant win over Northern Colorado but who really knows what that means ... the next two games should be a better indicator than this win over a team that hasn't beat a Division I team since moving up."
Montana plays at Big Sky rival Northern Arizona on Oct. 27, the second-place team in the conference. Meanwhile, Madison faces a challenge in No. 14 Richmond at Bridgeforth Stadium on Saturday.
The Spiders trounced Rhode Island 38-6 over the weekend, continuing to rebound from an Oct. 6 upset at the last place team in the CAA South Division, Towson. However, Richmond is a top-15 opponent. If JMU and Montana both win Saturday, who deserves to be ranked higher?
Friday, October 19, 2007
Scarlet Knights Surprise Bulls
In a game dominated by Rutgers tailback Ray Rice, the Scarlet Knights relied on a trick play to edge second-ranked South Florida, 30-27. I picked South Florida to win the game, but I'm not shocked by the upset — Rutgers upset a No. 3 ranked Louisville team last year, also on a Thursday.
However, I am surprised by the trick plays executed by Rutgers. In the third quarter, third-string quarterback Andrew DePaola acted as holder on an apparent field goal attempt, but rolled to his right and completed a 15-yard touchdown pass instead. Rutgers kicker Jeremy Ito also delivered a 36-yard pass on a fake punt in Rutgers' first possession, which ended in a field goal.
This game was almost as wacky as last Thursday's featured game, Florida State vs. Wake Forest. I'm left wondering — could Rutgers have beaten South Florida without the two unorthodox plays?
However, I am surprised by the trick plays executed by Rutgers. In the third quarter, third-string quarterback Andrew DePaola acted as holder on an apparent field goal attempt, but rolled to his right and completed a 15-yard touchdown pass instead. Rutgers kicker Jeremy Ito also delivered a 36-yard pass on a fake punt in Rutgers' first possession, which ended in a field goal.
This game was almost as wacky as last Thursday's featured game, Florida State vs. Wake Forest. I'm left wondering — could Rutgers have beaten South Florida without the two unorthodox plays?
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Big East Showdown- Sort Of
Four years ago, three Big East football teams agreed to abandon the league to join the Atlantic Coast Conference, which at the time was considered a growing football power. Miami and Virginia Tech received invitations to the ACC in June 2003, while Boston College got its invitation four months later. The three teams began ACC play in 2005.
Fast forward to 2007, and the traditional ACC powers have fallen, while its two best teams face off one week from now, Oct. 25. Those two teams are No. 3 Boston College and No. 11 Virginia Tech, and I find it ironic that BC is dominating in only its second season of ACC play.
Boston College, Syracuse, and Miami were all included in the ACC's initial expansion plan before the conference voted down BC and Syracuse in favor of Virginia Tech. The Eagles eventually received an invitation, and they have made the most of it.
Fast forward to 2007, and the traditional ACC powers have fallen, while its two best teams face off one week from now, Oct. 25. Those two teams are No. 3 Boston College and No. 11 Virginia Tech, and I find it ironic that BC is dominating in only its second season of ACC play.
Boston College, Syracuse, and Miami were all included in the ACC's initial expansion plan before the conference voted down BC and Syracuse in favor of Virginia Tech. The Eagles eventually received an invitation, and they have made the most of it.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
UVA Hands Connecticut First Loss
Talk to coaches about the main difference between the Football Championship Subdivision and the Football Bowl Subdivision, and they will tell you that size is the principal distinction. Athleticism is prevalent in both, but FCS players are generally smaller.
The same could be said about stadiums. I drove to Charlottesville on Saturday for the Virginia football game against Connecticut, where attendance at Scott Stadium was just above 60,000. James Madison usually surpasses Bridgeforth Stadium's official capacity of 14,513, but only by a few hundred.
Bridgeforth Stadium is considered one of the toughest places to play in the Colonial Athletic Association, but it doesn't come close to the atmosphere at Scott Stadium. Walking into the facility, the sea of orange impresses me every time.
UVA relied on its defense to win Saturday, when it recovered a fumble in the fourth quarter that led to the go-ahead field goal. The Cavaliers D is led by senior defensive end Chris Long, who is number four on Mel Kiper's Big Board, which ranks the top 25 college seniors.
Virginia Tech plays against Boston College at home Thursday, October 25, and I've got tickets. Should I expect Lane Stadium to live up to its hype?
The same could be said about stadiums. I drove to Charlottesville on Saturday for the Virginia football game against Connecticut, where attendance at Scott Stadium was just above 60,000. James Madison usually surpasses Bridgeforth Stadium's official capacity of 14,513, but only by a few hundred.
Bridgeforth Stadium is considered one of the toughest places to play in the Colonial Athletic Association, but it doesn't come close to the atmosphere at Scott Stadium. Walking into the facility, the sea of orange impresses me every time.
UVA relied on its defense to win Saturday, when it recovered a fumble in the fourth quarter that led to the go-ahead field goal. The Cavaliers D is led by senior defensive end Chris Long, who is number four on Mel Kiper's Big Board, which ranks the top 25 college seniors.
Virginia Tech plays against Boston College at home Thursday, October 25, and I've got tickets. Should I expect Lane Stadium to live up to its hype?
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Shoddy Officiating
The McSports Report is going to do something new tonight and examine Football Bowl Subdivision play.
In the Thursday night game on ESPN, Florida State and Wake Forest got off to a slow start following the Seminoles' first three plays and subsequent punt. It took 10-15 minutes for the referees to determine that an illegal block in the back by Wake Forest gave FSU the first down their offensive team couldn't produce.
The 'Noles were called for illegal procedure on their first punt and had to assess a five-yard penalty and repeat the fourth down. They punted a second time, and Wake Forest was called for an illegal block in the back, a 10-yard penalty. Initially, the referees announced that the penalty would be assessed 10 yards from where the block occurred and Wake Forest would get possession.
However, events that happened shortly after the illegal block complicated the situation. The punt landed, bounced off the helmet of a Demon Deacon special teams player and was recovered by an FSU player. The referees made three conflicting announcements before they declared an official review of the play.
The referees came to the conclusion that even before the ball bounced off the helment of a Wake Forest player, it had grazed an FSU player, effectively making the ball dead at the point he touched the ball. Subsequently, Florida State was given the option to accept the 10-yard penalty. They did accept, and it gave them a first down — the 'Noles went back to work on offense after all that. Fittingly, Florida State went three-and-out and punted the ball to about the same spot their original punt had landed.
Tell me if you've seen anything more ridiculous — the officials should have gone to instant replay right from the start.
In the Thursday night game on ESPN, Florida State and Wake Forest got off to a slow start following the Seminoles' first three plays and subsequent punt. It took 10-15 minutes for the referees to determine that an illegal block in the back by Wake Forest gave FSU the first down their offensive team couldn't produce.
The 'Noles were called for illegal procedure on their first punt and had to assess a five-yard penalty and repeat the fourth down. They punted a second time, and Wake Forest was called for an illegal block in the back, a 10-yard penalty. Initially, the referees announced that the penalty would be assessed 10 yards from where the block occurred and Wake Forest would get possession.
However, events that happened shortly after the illegal block complicated the situation. The punt landed, bounced off the helmet of a Demon Deacon special teams player and was recovered by an FSU player. The referees made three conflicting announcements before they declared an official review of the play.
The referees came to the conclusion that even before the ball bounced off the helment of a Wake Forest player, it had grazed an FSU player, effectively making the ball dead at the point he touched the ball. Subsequently, Florida State was given the option to accept the 10-yard penalty. They did accept, and it gave them a first down — the 'Noles went back to work on offense after all that. Fittingly, Florida State went three-and-out and punted the ball to about the same spot their original punt had landed.
Tell me if you've seen anything more ridiculous — the officials should have gone to instant replay right from the start.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Rhode Island Preview
Football practice was very animated today, as JMU offensive coordinator Jeff Durden was cheering for the defensive unit during drills. It seems unusual to me that an offensive coach would cheer for the defense.
James Madison relied on its defense to clinch a victory last week at Northeastern, when senior strong safety Nick Adams caught his second interception of the season with 36 seconds left in the game to halt a Northeastern drive into Madison territory. However, the Dukes were disappointed with their performance. Northeastern accumulated 207 rushing yards in the game, the highest total allowed by Madison's defense all season. The previous high was against VMI on Sept. 15, when JMU allowed 151 yards rushing.
Madison's defensive unit must step up Saturday against the wishbone attack that the University of Rhode Island employs. URI's wishbone is well suited for quarterback option plays and resembles the offensive scheme VMI runs.
“The fact that we have some practice time against it I think helps,” JMU coach Mickey Matthews said. “But it’s a double-edged sword, because [Rhode Island] has seen how we line up against it."
Expect Rhode Island to be more effective than the Keydets were with their rushing attack. In URI's last game on Sept. 29, junior quarterback Derek Cassidy led the team with 22 rushes for 119 yards, and the Rams also had two running backs with over 100 yards rushing. JMU has the fourth-ranked rushing defense in the Colonial Athletic Association through six games — we'll see where they stand after Saturday.
JMU senior defensive tackle John Baranowsky assessed last week's performance and said, "We just didn't fly to the ball as much — people were doing their jobs, it's just you need all 11 guys running. There was a little bit of lackluster effort there, and that's gonna get cleared up real fast."
If Madison can contain Rhode Island's multi-faceted rushing attack, the Dukes will certainly put themselves in a position to win. URI has the 11th-ranked pass offense in the CAA, and without a successful running game the Rams should struggle to put up points.
James Madison relied on its defense to clinch a victory last week at Northeastern, when senior strong safety Nick Adams caught his second interception of the season with 36 seconds left in the game to halt a Northeastern drive into Madison territory. However, the Dukes were disappointed with their performance. Northeastern accumulated 207 rushing yards in the game, the highest total allowed by Madison's defense all season. The previous high was against VMI on Sept. 15, when JMU allowed 151 yards rushing.
Madison's defensive unit must step up Saturday against the wishbone attack that the University of Rhode Island employs. URI's wishbone is well suited for quarterback option plays and resembles the offensive scheme VMI runs.
“The fact that we have some practice time against it I think helps,” JMU coach Mickey Matthews said. “But it’s a double-edged sword, because [Rhode Island] has seen how we line up against it."
Expect Rhode Island to be more effective than the Keydets were with their rushing attack. In URI's last game on Sept. 29, junior quarterback Derek Cassidy led the team with 22 rushes for 119 yards, and the Rams also had two running backs with over 100 yards rushing. JMU has the fourth-ranked rushing defense in the Colonial Athletic Association through six games — we'll see where they stand after Saturday.
JMU senior defensive tackle John Baranowsky assessed last week's performance and said, "We just didn't fly to the ball as much — people were doing their jobs, it's just you need all 11 guys running. There was a little bit of lackluster effort there, and that's gonna get cleared up real fast."
If Madison can contain Rhode Island's multi-faceted rushing attack, the Dukes will certainly put themselves in a position to win. URI has the 11th-ranked pass offense in the CAA, and without a successful running game the Rams should struggle to put up points.
Monday, October 8, 2007
South Division Leaders
JMU won 21-14 over Northeastern on Saturday in the lowest scoring Colonial Athletic Association football game of week six. With the win, the Dukes (5-1 overall, 3-0 in the conference) ascend to first place in the CAA South Division, while Delaware fell to second place with a 35-30 loss at New Hampshire.
Northeastern ran 83 plays to Madison's 52, a week after Villanova only had 48 plays to JMU's 82. The most plays Madison had allowed until Saturday's game was against New Hampshire on Sept. 8, when the Wilcats ran 72 plays to Madison's 75.
JMU coach Mickey Matthews explained the discrepancy and said, "[Northeastern's] best defense was their offense. They just kept the ball away from us — we had three possessions in the first half, and we scored two of 'em. We take the second half kickoff, go down and score to get the lead, and then from that period on offensively we didn't play very well."
Madison's defense struggled to contain Northeastern running back Maurice Murray, who rushed 32 times for 184 yards, an average of 5.7 yards per carry. The 230-pound senior was unlike any running back the Dukes practice against.
"We don't really have any big backs; the biggest back we have is Rodney [Landers], and he weighs 220 pounds," Matthews said. "In our scrimmages, we never tackle a big back, so I thought that really surprised us."
It's just a little bit ironic that Matthews considers his quarterback to be Madison's biggest running back. However, it's true — none of Madison's running backs are listed at more than 205 pounds. And after all, Landers does lead JMU with 90 rushing attempts for 512 yards. That ties him with University of Rhode Island running back Joe Casey for sixth place in the conference. More on that later.
Northeastern ran 83 plays to Madison's 52, a week after Villanova only had 48 plays to JMU's 82. The most plays Madison had allowed until Saturday's game was against New Hampshire on Sept. 8, when the Wilcats ran 72 plays to Madison's 75.
JMU coach Mickey Matthews explained the discrepancy and said, "[Northeastern's] best defense was their offense. They just kept the ball away from us — we had three possessions in the first half, and we scored two of 'em. We take the second half kickoff, go down and score to get the lead, and then from that period on offensively we didn't play very well."
Madison's defense struggled to contain Northeastern running back Maurice Murray, who rushed 32 times for 184 yards, an average of 5.7 yards per carry. The 230-pound senior was unlike any running back the Dukes practice against.
"We don't really have any big backs; the biggest back we have is Rodney [Landers], and he weighs 220 pounds," Matthews said. "In our scrimmages, we never tackle a big back, so I thought that really surprised us."
It's just a little bit ironic that Matthews considers his quarterback to be Madison's biggest running back. However, it's true — none of Madison's running backs are listed at more than 205 pounds. And after all, Landers does lead JMU with 90 rushing attempts for 512 yards. That ties him with University of Rhode Island running back Joe Casey for sixth place in the conference. More on that later.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Northeastern Preview
Just talked with Rocky Hager, head coach of the Northeastern football team. Entering Saturday's game, the Huskies are 1-3 overall, 0-1 in the CAA. Northeastern had a bye and didn't play Saturday — that might help them with some injuries.
Coach Hager offered his perspective and said, "With the Football Championship Subdivision, there are some inherent challenges that we all face because of limitations in scholarships. When you get a period of time with which you can give certain folks an opportunity to rest and recuperate, thats a bonus."
Scholarships aren't the only resource FCS schools have less of than their Football Bowl Subdivision counterparts. Low attendance and modest stadiums are an issue as well, and Northeastern's Parsons Field highlights this topic of debate. Average home attendance for the Huskies this season is 2,689 in two games at Brookline, Mass.
The quality of their facilities reflects their attendance, which is the lowest in the CAA. However, JMU coach Mickey Matthews emphasized the importance of not underestimating a team because of their facilities.
"Anytime you visit with any of the coaches in the CAA, they always talk about [how] Northeastern has the biggest home field advantage in the league." Matthews said. "It's such a shock when kids go in there ... you have such a letdown, and you really have to guard against that."
JMU stands second in the CAA South Division (4-1 overall, 2-0 CAA), and travels over 550 miles to Northeastern Saturday. The Huskies will try to contain the ever-improving JMU quarterback Rodney Landers, who was named CAA Football Offensive Player of the Week for producing 370 yards of total offense against Villanova. He has passed for more than 240 yards in both of his first two CAA games, and hasn't passed for more than 163 yards against either of Madison's three other opponents.
Senior tailback Eugene Holloman is expected to sit out the remainder of the season after his arthroscopic knee surgery, and his absence has translated to less big play potential for JMU. Senior tailback Antoinne Bolton provides leadership for the Dukes, and the next three running backs on the depth chart are redshirt freshmen Jamal Sullivan and Griff Yancey, and sophomore Reggie Hicks.
"I was surprised when I saw the yards after the game, because other than the reverse we didn't really have a big play," Matthews said. "When your home run threat's over there on crutches, that's not gonna go away all year."
Madison produced 507 yards of total offense against Villanova, and had more receiving yards than rushing yards for the first time this season. With 300 passing yards and 207 rushing yards, the Dukes utilized short screen passes to exploit the bunched-in Villanova defensive front. At this point, opposing teams must pick their poison: focus on Rodney Landers the rushing threat, or focus on his accuracy through the air.
Coach Hager offered his perspective and said, "With the Football Championship Subdivision, there are some inherent challenges that we all face because of limitations in scholarships. When you get a period of time with which you can give certain folks an opportunity to rest and recuperate, thats a bonus."
Scholarships aren't the only resource FCS schools have less of than their Football Bowl Subdivision counterparts. Low attendance and modest stadiums are an issue as well, and Northeastern's Parsons Field highlights this topic of debate. Average home attendance for the Huskies this season is 2,689 in two games at Brookline, Mass.
The quality of their facilities reflects their attendance, which is the lowest in the CAA. However, JMU coach Mickey Matthews emphasized the importance of not underestimating a team because of their facilities.
"Anytime you visit with any of the coaches in the CAA, they always talk about [how] Northeastern has the biggest home field advantage in the league." Matthews said. "It's such a shock when kids go in there ... you have such a letdown, and you really have to guard against that."
JMU stands second in the CAA South Division (4-1 overall, 2-0 CAA), and travels over 550 miles to Northeastern Saturday. The Huskies will try to contain the ever-improving JMU quarterback Rodney Landers, who was named CAA Football Offensive Player of the Week for producing 370 yards of total offense against Villanova. He has passed for more than 240 yards in both of his first two CAA games, and hasn't passed for more than 163 yards against either of Madison's three other opponents.
Senior tailback Eugene Holloman is expected to sit out the remainder of the season after his arthroscopic knee surgery, and his absence has translated to less big play potential for JMU. Senior tailback Antoinne Bolton provides leadership for the Dukes, and the next three running backs on the depth chart are redshirt freshmen Jamal Sullivan and Griff Yancey, and sophomore Reggie Hicks.
"I was surprised when I saw the yards after the game, because other than the reverse we didn't really have a big play," Matthews said. "When your home run threat's over there on crutches, that's not gonna go away all year."
Madison produced 507 yards of total offense against Villanova, and had more receiving yards than rushing yards for the first time this season. With 300 passing yards and 207 rushing yards, the Dukes utilized short screen passes to exploit the bunched-in Villanova defensive front. At this point, opposing teams must pick their poison: focus on Rodney Landers the rushing threat, or focus on his accuracy through the air.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Weekend Preview
It's Friday, and that means JMU sports are busy. The 7-1 women's soccer team has a home game at 7 p.m. against Georgia State. It's their first Colonial Athletic Association game of the season, and they play their second CAA game against UNC-Wilmington Sunday at 1 p.m.
The Madison field hockey team travels to Philadelphia for its third CAA game. The Dukes play against Drexel today, and move to Hempstead, N.Y. for their fourth CAA game Sunday against Hofstra. JMU is ranked seventh nationally, and has sole possession of first place in the conference standings at 2-0.
JMU volleyball has won seven out of its last eight matches and looks to extend a three-game winning streak today. The Dukes play their second and third CAA matches this weekend at home, starting with a 7 p.m. match against Towson at Sinclair Gymnasium (located in Godwin Hall). Sunday brings Delaware to Sinclair Gymnasium in another 7 p.m. match. Madison is 9-5 overall, and currently tied with Delaware and Hofstra for first in the conference at 1-0 in CAA play.
Women's cross country competes in the Paul Short Invitational in Bethlehem, Pa. today, an event they tied for 11th last year in a 35-team field. Reigning CAA champion and senior Dena Spickard finished 10th individually in the race in 2006, and leads a young JMU squad. Freshmen and sophomores make up 17 members of this year’s team, while there are only seven juniors and seniors combined. The Paul Short is one of four races left before the CAA Championships take place Friday, Oct. 26.
The JMU men's tennis team competes in the Virginia Open Friday through Saturday. Two weeks ago, the Dukes compiled a score of 2-11 in the UVA Fall Classic. The Virginia Open is Madison's second tournament of the season, and also their second trip to Charlottesville. Eleven teams are competing in the tournament this weekend, including CAA foes George Mason, Virginia Commonwealth, and William & Mary.
The Madison football team plays its second conference game Saturday against a surging Villanova squad. The Wildcats have won five straight CAA games dating back to a victory at William & Mary on October 28, 2006. Both JMU and Villanova are riding three-game winning streaks, and the only loss for each squad was to an ACC opponent in week 1 (Sept. 1). The Dukes lost at North Carolina 37-14, and the Wildcats lost at Maryland 31-14.
Last year, Villanova handed then fourth-ranked JMU its first CAA loss by one point (21-20), and broke a seven-game Madison winning streak. The Dukes went on to thrash Towson 38-3 in their last regular season game, but the loss to Villanova cost them a top-four seed in the 16-team NCAA playoffs and a home playoff game. Instead, the sixth-ranked Dukes traveled to fifth-ranked Youngstown State and lost in a controversial match-up 35-31.
However, Saturday's game is much more than a grudge match; a win would give Madison sole possession of second place in the CAA South Division. JMU is tied with Villanova in the division at 3-1 overall, 1-0 conference. After they play Villanova, Madison faces two teams with a combined one win (through four games) when they play at Northeastern on Nov. 6 and at Rhode Island on Nov. 13. Villanova will look to play spoiler once again during JMU's Family Weekend, as both teams chase undefeated Delaware in the CAA South Division.
The Madison field hockey team travels to Philadelphia for its third CAA game. The Dukes play against Drexel today, and move to Hempstead, N.Y. for their fourth CAA game Sunday against Hofstra. JMU is ranked seventh nationally, and has sole possession of first place in the conference standings at 2-0.
JMU volleyball has won seven out of its last eight matches and looks to extend a three-game winning streak today. The Dukes play their second and third CAA matches this weekend at home, starting with a 7 p.m. match against Towson at Sinclair Gymnasium (located in Godwin Hall). Sunday brings Delaware to Sinclair Gymnasium in another 7 p.m. match. Madison is 9-5 overall, and currently tied with Delaware and Hofstra for first in the conference at 1-0 in CAA play.
Women's cross country competes in the Paul Short Invitational in Bethlehem, Pa. today, an event they tied for 11th last year in a 35-team field. Reigning CAA champion and senior Dena Spickard finished 10th individually in the race in 2006, and leads a young JMU squad. Freshmen and sophomores make up 17 members of this year’s team, while there are only seven juniors and seniors combined. The Paul Short is one of four races left before the CAA Championships take place Friday, Oct. 26.
The JMU men's tennis team competes in the Virginia Open Friday through Saturday. Two weeks ago, the Dukes compiled a score of 2-11 in the UVA Fall Classic. The Virginia Open is Madison's second tournament of the season, and also their second trip to Charlottesville. Eleven teams are competing in the tournament this weekend, including CAA foes George Mason, Virginia Commonwealth, and William & Mary.
The Madison football team plays its second conference game Saturday against a surging Villanova squad. The Wildcats have won five straight CAA games dating back to a victory at William & Mary on October 28, 2006. Both JMU and Villanova are riding three-game winning streaks, and the only loss for each squad was to an ACC opponent in week 1 (Sept. 1). The Dukes lost at North Carolina 37-14, and the Wildcats lost at Maryland 31-14.
Last year, Villanova handed then fourth-ranked JMU its first CAA loss by one point (21-20), and broke a seven-game Madison winning streak. The Dukes went on to thrash Towson 38-3 in their last regular season game, but the loss to Villanova cost them a top-four seed in the 16-team NCAA playoffs and a home playoff game. Instead, the sixth-ranked Dukes traveled to fifth-ranked Youngstown State and lost in a controversial match-up 35-31.
However, Saturday's game is much more than a grudge match; a win would give Madison sole possession of second place in the CAA South Division. JMU is tied with Villanova in the division at 3-1 overall, 1-0 conference. After they play Villanova, Madison faces two teams with a combined one win (through four games) when they play at Northeastern on Nov. 6 and at Rhode Island on Nov. 13. Villanova will look to play spoiler once again during JMU's Family Weekend, as both teams chase undefeated Delaware in the CAA South Division.
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