A Football Fix

Football is back, y'all!!!! Okay so maybe not games and tailgating, just yet, but camps have started so football has started.  The minute football ends in January/ February I'm already counting down the days until it's back!  Signing Day, the Draft, and Media Days help with that a bit, but there's nothing like football season.  Am I right?  During the off-season, I need multiple football fixes so here's my list of Movies/TV shows that can give you that Football Fix and will definitely get you ready for the season!

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS // As if Tim Riggins isn't enough to watch the show, the fact that it centers around a town so consumed in football is reason enough for me.  If you like drama and football in any capacity, Friday Night Lights needs to be on your Netflix "Recently Watched" list, like yesterday.  Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose!

REMEMBER THE TITANS // cause duh

WE ARE MARSHALL //

WHEN THE GAME STANDS TALL // the newest football movie that's already made its way to the top of my list!

THE BLIND SIDE //

DRAFT DAY //

In addition to watching these you can get out and go watch some football practices or play a few games for yourself and then you can start preparing for your fantasy draft!!!

You can bet that I've already watched at least half of these!  I may explode with excitement for the season soon!  Just 5 more weeks!

What do you do to get your "Football Fix"?  Is there a movie I'm missing?

Pride in the SEC

There is nothing ​that I've experienced ​in sports media that compares to the 4 day event of SEC Football Media Days.

The amount of media. The hype. The craze. The flashing lights. The screaming fans. ​It's really a skeptical like no other.

Two years ago I ​was invited to attend ​SEC​ ​M​edia ​D​ays without any affiliation to the conference. I built a relationship with someone who worked there and they offered me an opportunity to volunteer. As someone who was desperately looking to find her way into the industry I jumped at the opportunity. ​The experience immensely​ changed my career.​ And two years later I'm well on my way to the career I've always wanted.​ But that's a story for a different day.

During ​SEC​ ​M​edia ​D​ays I (among other students from schools across the conference) was invited to ​speak with ​Commissionor Greg Sankey​ in a small group setting in his​ ​presidential suite​ at the hotel. Listening to him talk was amazing. As a communications and public relations professional I love hearing people's stories. Hearing his was even better. We heard him talk about the chances he took, the opportunities he took advantage of and ​his emphasis ​in the importance of building relationships. He recommended books for us to read and thanked us for assisting in the production of the event.

As I sat there and took it all in, I realized the pride that beams from him as he talks about the conference. I recognized it because it's the same pride I knew I wanted to be a part of long before ever stepping foot on SEC territory. It's the pride that's felt for a team, a school, the conference as whole. The idea that if it can't be my team, I want it to be a team we're, in a way, associated with. He loves the SEC for the pride it brings among the fans​ and honestly, I do too​. Fans root for the ​SEC​. People chant S-E-C at games and championships for teams that aren't theirs. The SEC as a whole is a community larger than that of just one of its 14 member institutions. It's the greatest conference in college athletics. And as I paraphrase Commissioner Sankey from his opening remarks at the beginning of the week, as a conference we want to be scholars first, champions second.

In all, people want to be a part of the greatness that is the Southeastern Conference. I, for sure, am proud to be!

A Triple Crown Winner

I had originally planned to continue sharing the adventures of my trip abroad, but decided that can wait.

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I love sports.  But sometimes more than the actually action of a game, I love the stories that are told through sport.  I love the history and tradition as well as the transparency it provides and the camaraderie it brings to a community.  I’ll always believe that sports are more than just a game. 

This weekend the sports world witnessed something that hasn’t happened in 37 years.  American Pharoah won the Triple Crown.  If you follow horse racing at all you know that many people have questioned whether this would ever be done again.  Thirteen horses in the past 37 years have won both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness before falling short during the mile and a half Belmont Stakes. But not American Pharoah.  He is the 12^th horse in history to accomplish this feat of winning all three of the Triple Crown races in just 5 weeks- each race being a different length and on different tracks.

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I’m a big fan of horseracing and the thing about this accomplishment is that it’s not just for a particular team or city.  Every year we have a Super Bowl Champion, Stanley Cup Champion, World Series Champion, NBA Finals Champion, etc.  And though we continuously have winners of prestigious races in horse racing, we haven’t seen a horse with such greatness in a long time.  I absolutely love the amount of support and fans that come out of the woodworks to root for a Triple Crown contender.  In the sport of horseracing, I really encourage it.  NBC showed clips of the many different celebrities, shows, etc that were sending their support to American Pharoah.  Even opposing trainer Todd Pletcher said prior to the race, that he wouldn’t be upset if his horse lost to American Pharoah.  The industry was extremely hungry for this.  A Triple Crown win is something that all fans root for and it restores faith in the horse racing industry.  It proves it can be done.  That a horse can still accomplish the recently unthinkable- running a mile and a half race with both speed and stamina.  Maybe ear plugs or a shorter tail are the secret?

American Pharoah has seemed to run these races with ease.  He ran a beautiful race from start to finish.  He was in the lead the entire time and started to break away on the final turn before really getting ahead half way down the stretch and finishing 5 and a half lengths ahead of Frosted and the others to follow.  (Not sure if  you noticed this but Materiality was 2^nd/right behind American Pharoah up until the final stretch and finished dead last- perfect example of the stamina most horses lack.) Jockey, Victor Espinoza did a wonderful job on not letting American Pharoah break too soon, not that it would have mattered because American Pharoah seemed to race to the finish with ease.  Espinoza even had time to look back at the others just like Ronnie Turcotte did on Secretariat.  The race was so much fun to watch.  I literally got chills as I watched him cross the finish line.  It was a remarkable 2 minutes.  The best two minutes in sports. 

image via

Congratulations to American Pharoah, Victor Espinoza, Bob Baffert, Zayat Stables and everyone else for their monumental victory.  I can’t wait to see American Pharoah run in the Breeder’s Cup for a hopeful Grand Slam!

Being a Student-Athlete Mentor

Working with student-athletes is a big part of the career I’ve chosen and hope to continue in.  In communications, I try to coach them on ways to speak to and handle the media- for them to build their brand through their interviews, for them to answer questions in a way that both impress and benefit themselves, the reporter and the reader.  Student-athletes are in the limelight and most of them want to make good impressions and be role models.  They want to be well-liked and rooted for- on the field, off the field and into the future.  They have to learn how to use social media and the platform they’ve been given to their advantage and that’s something I try to help them with as a communications professional.  

This semester I was able to work with student-athletes in a different way.  I became a student-athlete mentor.  Here at Georgia, a mentor is someone who provides leadership and guidance to assigned student-athletes.  We help them manage their class schedule, make sure they’re studying and doing their assignments on time.  We help them balance the roles of both being a student and an athlete, because after all, they are students first.  We meet with them a few times a week and I was fortunate enough to grow great relationships with my athletes.

Throughout the semester I got to see life through the eyes of a student-athlete.  I saw perseverance with an athlete coming back from injury.  I saw frustration from an athlete struggling in a class and having to work extra hard to get the desired grade.  I saw obedience and respect for the people around them who are there to help, support, and guide them to success. 

Sure, some athletes fall into the general stereotype of “I’m too good for this”.  I worked with one who seemed to care less about the “student” part of the title, but still worked hard to obtain the necessary grades.  That type of athlete, though, is not the majority from what I can see.

I’d say the most important thing I saw this semester was the dedication and determination in these athletes.  These athletes want to get good grades by putting 110% into their homework, tutoring, and studying.  They also want to win by putting 110% into their practices and work outs.  They work hard, they’re determined, and they’re committed to the “G”.  They don’t take the opportunity they’ve been given lightly and know they’re lucky to be a student-athlete.

I’m lucky to get to know and work with some great student-athletes.  I hope I can continue to learn as much from them as I hope they learn from me. 

You Can't Take the Cheerleader Out of the Girl

I was a cheerleader from ages 6 to 18, moving from Pop Warner to competition to high school. At some points I was on more than one squad and went from one practice straight to the other. I loved every minute of it- cheering on the sidelines as close as I could be to the action of football games and the intensity of being on the competition mat.  I was on National Champion squads too.  My experience as a cheerleader was fantastic, until that one time I got my 4 front teeth knocked out while stunting during a football game my senior year of high school. But that's a story for another time.  Even then I got right back out there and couldn't wait to stunt again after my injury.  Even though my mom, coaches and doctors were nervous I'd get hit again I couldn't let that be the way my career ended.  I finished the season and cried like a baby when it was over.  Cheerleading was a huge part of my life.  I was never envious or wish I was a cheerleader in college.  But that doesn't mean I didn't watch competitions on TV or the old tapes I have or find videos online.  The truth is 7 years later I still miss it and can't seem to shake those cheerleader tendencies!

A few weeks ago as I input the final score to secure a Georgia win I simply said, W-I-N the same way I would have in my days cheering on the sidelines, but in a much softer tone!  I laughed to myself and acted like that didn't just happen as I started packing up my stuff.  I should probably mention that the sport was equestrian.  I wish I could say this was the first time something like this has happened, but as I'm sure you guessed, it's not!

During football season the older man that sat next to me, who rarely follows proper press box etiquette I might add, yelled (being a relative term) for the Dawgs to be agressive.  Naturally my cheerleader instincts kicked in and I softly chanted "Be aggressive, b-e aggressive B-E A-G-G-R-E-S-S-I-V-E"!  I then laughed to myself and the kid sitting next to me chuckled and rolled his eyes jokingly.

And recently during basketball season as I cringed watching the Lady Bulldogs fall apart, I found myself cheering "rebound that basketball, rebound that ball (clap, clap)" in my head.  Those cheers, again, were to myself, but just come naturally when watching sports.  Sometimes you need to think that your enthusiasm or encouragement will help, even if there's no way they can hear you, because well, I wasn't actually cheering out loud!

Sometimes I think about coaching - maybe a middle school or high school team or even assisting with a competition squad.  As you can see, you can take the girl out of cheerleading, but you can't take the cheerleader out of the girl!  I'll continue to have that cheery and upbeat approach as my life in sports continues to evolve!

My First Y'all

January 22, 2015- a date which will live in infamy.  Okay, so it's not actually that dramatic.  But on January 22nd I caught myself saying something I had never knowingly said before.

It was a Thursday night in Athens.  The Lady Bulldogs were playing the Aggies of Texas A&M with hopes of extending their at-home winning streak to 12.  Georgia fought hard against their No. 10 ranked opponent and sealed the win in the final seconds of the game with a final score of 54-51.  It was exciting!  The type of buzzer beater us sports fans love, especially when your team is the underdog and they come out on top!

We conducted post game interviews with smiles on our faces and excitement for what this season might bring.  Things winded down as our team was getting ready to call it a night and just like that I said, "bye y'all" as I was walking out of the media room at Stegeman Colosseum.

I think I gasped.  It was the first time I heard myself say y'all so involuntarily.  It just came out like word vomit!  I'm not sure if anyone else noticed the difference between my "y'all" and normal "you guys", but I sure did!  After 12 months of living in the south, y'all effortlessly came out of my mouth.  I'm not saying that it's going to be a regular thing, but I can't say I'll stop it!  Here's to continuing to embrace the southern culture I love so much!

Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl: The First of the New Era

New Year’s Eve marked the third game I worked as part of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Media Relations team.  Each event has been a wonderful experience, but this one was by far my favorite even with the less than thrilling beating TCU took on Ole Miss.  It also happened to be the first game of the six elite bowl games selected to host the College Football Playoff.

In weeks leading up to the big day, the media relations staff was in touch with me about what my tasks would be throughout game day.  Being my third event, they’ve gotten to know me – they know the assignments they’ve previously given me and they know the goals and aspirations of my career.  I was ecstatic when they asked me to be a liaison for one of the schools’ sports information department.  It was a role I had been given before, but with the new media requirements of the College Football Playoff the duties were more in depth and precise.  On game day I was even given a headset, which I thought was also pretty cool and made me feel official!

As liaison, during the game I made sure the school’s staff had everything they needed, including answering questions or solving any issues that arose - pretty straight forward.  But post game is where my assignment got exceptionally fun! 

With about 5 minutes left in the game I made my way down to the field with some of the staff to prepare for post game chaos festivities.  As liaison my job was to make sure everything ran smoothly for the team’s post game media obligations.  I was to escort Ole Miss Head Coach Hugh Freeze to the locker room, give him the proper 10-minute cool down period, escort him to the press conference and also keep time for media in the locker room with additional players. 

It was such an exciting 40-minute whirlwind.  I was so close to everything, closer than I’d really ever been before.  I was right there with Coach Freeze as he ran to shake hands and congratulate TCU Coach Patterson near the 50-yard line.  I briskly walked off the field with him and into the locker room- giving him and his staff a minute-by-minute countdown until he was expected at the press conference and radioing to bowl personnel his whereabouts.  Following the press conference I kept track of the time media was allowed in the locker room for post game interviews with players (minimum 30 minutes). 

This process was new to players, coaches and staff.  Since the Peach Bowl is a bowl in rotation for the new College Football Playoff system, the regulations were different.  It was exciting to be the person they turned to for clarification of what was expected of them. 

I’m so grateful to the wonderful people of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl for continually inviting me to get incredible experience at their events.  It’s truly an honor to work with them!

I can’t believe how quickly this season is coming to an end.  What an incredible first year of the College Football Playoff it has been!

America's Game!

Saturday may have been my favorite day that revolved around sports.  I've been to College Football Bowl games and Stanley Cup games and World Series games, but the Army/Navy Game was a whole different experience.  One I'm not able to adequately put into words.  

Every year I love watching the Army/Navy game with my dad.  He graduated from West Point and played football for the Black Knights for 2 years while he was a cadet.  I grew up singing the Army Fight Song and making trips to the beautiful Military Academy on the banks of the Hudson River.  The tradition of the Cadet Parade on Saturdays is one of my favorite in all of sports.

I flew in that morning and we headed straight to the game in Baltimore.  We got to the stadium just in time to see the March-On.  The March-On is the tradition of all midshipmen and cadets marching onto the field before going into the stands.  The precision and accuracy of the formation and timing is incredible, as you can imagine.

The pre-game festivities of the jumpers and flyovers was my favorite part.  The fact that the parachute jumpers are able to control their landing the way they do is mind boggling.  Then came the flyovers for both teams.  The Army helicopters were sooo low and quiet, I had to pick my jaw up off the ground after they flew by.  And the Navy jets were just the opposite-- high and loud.  It was just so cool to see.

The card stunt was also so much fun!  Everyone had cardboard at their seat and they instructed us when to hold it up and when to flip it over!  I never really knew exactly how those were executed, but it was definitely cool to be a part of.

Then the game started and I couldn't believe how fast it was going by.  There were very few penalties as both teams play with such discipline.  Both teams play dominantly running games, basically forcing the clock to stop for TV time outs.  Unfortunately Army couldn't hold onto their lead and lost to the Midshipmen for the 13th year in a row, meaning the cadets sang their alma mater first after the game.

I have a lot of respect for student-athletes.  Like in any situation you have some people who bring negative stereotypes to a group, but overall I respect them for their dedication to the sport and their school and education.  In fact, working with student-athletes is a passion of mine, one that I've chosen for my career!  But it's different when talking about the student-athletes at Army & Navy (and even Air Force).  Playing football is a hobby to the cadets and midshipmen.  Football comes second to serving our country and I respect them all immensely for that. And no matter the outcome of the game, they're all heroes!

The only thing that could have made the day better would have been to see the first Army victory in 13 years!  But until next time, GO ARMY, BEAT NAVY!!!! :)

A Season in the Press Box

This has been a football season to remember.  I know it’s technically not over yet, but we’ve shut the lights at Sanford Stadium for the year.  I can’t put into words how fast these last 14 weeks have flown by or what they’ve meant to me.

Since first stepping foot on the beautiful campus of the University of Georgia in Athens last September, I knew this was a place I needed to be.  Fifteen months later, I’m living in that wonderful town and just wrapped up my first season as a Bulldog.  This was also the first time I’ve spent a season watching games from the press box. 

Every Saturday that the Dawgs were home in Athens, I was in the press box at Sanford Stadium.  Being a part of the communications/stat team this season has been unreal and not a day went by that I didn’t feel grateful or have “pinch me” moments. 

Saturdays in Athens are wonderfully hectic and exciting.  Distributing information/stats and making sure the press box was set for media personnel was the first thing we’d do.  With a credential around my neck, I would spend some time on the sideline with my co-workers during warm ups.  I would make my way back up to the press box in time for the team to make their dramatic entrance and the singing of the National Anthem.

I usually felt a string of butterflies as the teams were getting ready to kick off and the crowd was wild with anticipation.  The string of butterflies was often joined by giddy excitement and just like that the Dawgs were ready to tee it up Between the Hedges. 

The atmosphere at Sanford Stadium never ceased to amaze me.  I’ve never experienced anything like it.  It’s an experience not adequately described with words but with emotions that simply over take you- the passion, intensity, camaraderie and tradition that is Georgia.  If you’re a sports fan, it’ll change your soul. 

A part from being proud to be a Georgia Bulldog, I am extremely blessed to be learning from the best of the best here at Georgia.  I’m not only immersing myself in the culture of this wonderful town, but taking full advantage of every opportunity to enrich my career.  Athens is a special place and I can’t wait to see what else it has in store for me.  

I Believe In The Underdog

I believe in the underdog.  I've always believed in the underdog, because more times than not, that's the team I've been rooting for.  One of the things I love most about College Football and sports in general is that on any given day an underdog can rise above.  Growing up a Rutgers fan I've been used to losing the rivalry games and being overwhelmed with pride and excitement when my team overcame adversity to come out on top.  It's really a great feeling, but ​this weekend I was on the other side of that spectrum as a Georgia Bulldog fan.

I took the trip to Jacksonville with tons of confidence it would be 4 in a row against the Florida Gators.  It was incredibly cold and windy- totally unexpected weather conditions. The Bulldogs scored first, as to be expected.  Then the Gators scored on a fake field goal attempt and just like that the momentum and atmosphere at Everbank Field completely changed.  I won't bore you with all the gory details- Georgia lost to Florida, 38-20.

The loss left a gut-wrenching feeling within me.  All the hype and excitement for what the rest of the season may hold was suddenly tarnished, yet again.  After losing our best player to a suspension and winning 2 games against teams that had a better chance of beating us, I couldn't believe the way this one unfolded.  And even more than that, I can't believe how quickly I got used to winning.  Or how fast I expected wins.  Like I said, that feeling's new.  And to be quite honest, I'm not sure which one I like more.

It's always fun to win, but it may be more fun to be the underdog and pull the upset.

No wait, it's definitely more fun to win, always! 

There's still plenty of time left for the College Football season to take a few more unexpected turns and I'm very excited for the ride.  It's not over yet!

Dear College Football

I can't believe you're coming back to me SO SOON.  I've really missed you.  I've seen you a little bit lately with spring practices, media days, and camp, but you know that's not the same as actually having you here in full swing.  I may actually explode with excitement before we're reunited next Thursday, like seriously, I'm so excited to see you!

I'm not the only one though.  Stadiums have been renovated, fields are manicured to perfection, mascots have gotten their preseason makeovers, uniforms have been updated, cleaned and are hanging in the locker rooms just waiting for the blood, sweat and tears you'll bring.    

I know things are going to be different since I last saw you.  You got rid of the BCS and have moved on to bigger and better things with the Playoff.  I'm totally supportive of this and know we'll all try our best to embrace your change with open arms.  Sure, I'm going to miss seeing the polls week after week, but I can still quiz my mom on which schools are in which conference.  And we both know the day she stops saying Michigan State is in every conference will be a win for everyone involved.  Fingers crossed she gets that one down quickly.  There will be some people that are nay-sayers about the Playoff system, I'm sure they just need time.  I know these changes won't affect who you truly are though- full of pride, tradition, competition, and classic rivalries.  You really are the full package and this year you're gracing us with your presence for an extra 2ish weeks, so we thank you for that!

I know there are others like me, professing their love over and over, but we all have different obsessions and experiences with you.  That's what makes you so wonderful. You're so good to so many people in so many different ways.  We root for different teams, in different conferences, all thinking that we're right, but really you're the one that's right.  You give us something to discuss, to feel passion for, to share with ones we love and to take with us wherever we go.

I can't wait to see what you have in store for us- the hearts you'll break and the memories you'll make.

You'll always be my first love.  I'm sooo excited you're coming back to me in 6 short days! :)

xoxo

Linking up with Erin and Sarah today! 

That One Time I Played Soccer..

I have never been interested in soccer.  Maybe that's because I really don't know the game.  I know what a goal is (obviously) and that a penalty kick (PK) is when a penalty happens inside the box.  And that's about it.  I don't even really know what a penalty would consist of, to be honest, and I'm still clueless on the whole clock situation.

I played one season when I was 5 and it was painful- for both me and my parents.  I dreaded every game, always doing cartwheels on the field and excited for the after-game snack, but my parents made me finish out the season and I went to every game!  My parents always tell this story about me playing soccer:

One of our games must have been rained out because at the end of the season we had a "make-up" game.  Apparently I was sooo, overly excited for this "make-up" game and couldn't wait to get to the field- my parents had no idea why since I hated it all season.  The game was just like any other game, but when it was over I went over to my parents' blanket and said, "That was the worst make up game ever.  We didn't even get to play with any make up!"  My parents laughed hysterically and it's been a running joke in my family ever since.  

I started cheerleading that next season and never looked back.  It was the closest I could get to football, which had already become my favorite sport!  I continued to dread soccer even as I watched my sister play on her travel team for years...

But then four years ago when my summer job was watching 4 boys all day, everyday, we watched the World Cup, talked about the World Cup, played soccer every day in the yard and I didn't mind it.  And lately, I've been intrigued by soccer.  I've been interested in the World Cup and actually looked forward to it.  Though I barely know what's going on during a game.

I've also been following the evolvement of the new New York City Football Club team and wishing I was apart of it.  From the hiring of former Rutgers AD, Tim Pernetti, to the fan-voted logo and the signing of their first player, David Villa.  I've been immensely interested in the sport.  Who am I?

I wore my red, white, and blue and cheered the United States to victory last Monday night against Ghana and couldn't believe that last second score by Portugal in Sunday's game.  I'm excited to watch today's game, as the country I was raised in takes on the country I was born in! haha I'm totally rooting for the USA, I might start cheering for Germany if they make it further than us though!!

Anyone else have a new interest in soccer (or at least the World Cup), but still confused as to what's going on on the field?!

GO USA!! I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN!!  I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN!! :)

Preakness 2014

One of my family’s favorite things to do together is to go to horse races.  It’s one of the only sports we can all agree on and truly enjoy.  We love the atmosphere, the excitement, experiencing different racetracks, and of course winning a little bit of money- if we’re so lucky!

Last year my dad and I took the trip to Kentucky for my first Kentucky Derby experience and it was everything I wanted it to be, even with the rain. 

But this year all five of us took the short drive down to Baltimore for the Preakness Stakes to see Triple Crown hopeful, California Chrome, run up close. 

We arrived at Pimlico Race Track on Friday for Black Eyed Susan Day, similar to Oaks Day at the Derby, a day dedicated to the fillies.  My dad’s company was sponsoring events taking place that morning, and we got to reap all the benefits!  We had great seats in the grandstand and access to the Turfside Terrace located on the edge of the infield (not to be confused with the frat party atmosphere of the actual infield, where you can see virtually nothing)!!

I’ve been to a number of racetracks including Monmouth, Saratoga, Gulf Stream, Churchill Downs and Keeneland.  I was shocked at how Pimlico holds such a prestigious event, but is very run down.  The paddock area was especially disappointing.  But the Preakness itself definitely lives up to the hype!  It’s an iconic horserace with its traditional flowers and signature cocktails.   There are races all day leading up to the big event- on both the turf and the dirt. 

The Turfside Terrace was a wonderful area to spend the day with great views of the horses, great food and drinks, and exclusive betting windows.  We found a spot close to the fence and stayed there for most of the races.  We were exceptionally close to the races that ran on the turf.  You could feel the breeze and the rumble of the ground and the horses raced by. 

Before we knew it the trumpets were sounding for the race we’d been waiting for all day.  The contenders paraded down the track to the starting gate.  Once set in their post positions, the whistles blew, the gates flew open and they were off.  Running past us in the blink of an eye, around the turn and down the stretch before breaking for the final lengths to the finish.  The crowd was wild, yelling for their horses to win.  California Chrome surged ahead with Ride On Curlin’ finishing one and a half lengths behind.  It was a wonderful race. 

And now I can’t wait/I’m so nervous to watch California Chrome race in the final leg of the Triple Crown at the Belmont Stakes.  I love his story (the colt of a $8,000 mare bred with a $2,500 stallion to a one horse stable) and would love to see him achieve a Triple Crown win!!!  I’m supposed to be in NYC seeing Aladdin on Broadway with my family that day.  Any chance we can exchange our tickets and head to the Belmont?    #CHROMIE

If I Had A Heisman Trophy Vote

The Heisman Trophy is the "Most Prestigious Award in College Football".  According to the Heisman Trophy website, "The Heisman Memorial Trophy annually recognizes the outstanding college football player whose performance best exhibits the pursuit of excellence with integrity. Winners epitomize great ability combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work. The Heisman Trophy Trust ensures the continuation and integrity of this award."  

The winner is not only a fantastic football player, but also someone with great character and integrity.  It is and should always be an award given to an admirable player both on and off the field.  There is a high level of prestige and honor that comes along with the Heisman Trophy, an award to not be taken lightly by voters, candidates, winners and even fans.

The Heisman Trophy Ceremony is tomorrow, Saturday, December 14th.  This year's six Heisman Finalists are:

Jordan Lynch, Northern Illinois University

Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M University

Tre Mason, Auburn University

AJ McCarron, University of Alabama

Andre Williams, Boston College

Jameis Winston, Florida State University

Jameis Winston has been a stand out candidate for the trophy from the beginning of the season.  The red-shirt freshman Quarterback has put up ridiculous numbers and beaten all of his opponents by an average 40-something points.  The odds that he won't be our Heisman Trophy winner are extremely slim.  I heard (aka, saw on Twitter) that you have to bet $150 in order to win $1.  Jameis Winston definitely deserves the Heisman Trophy for his efforts on the field, there's no doubt about it.  But what about off the field.  What about his character and integrity, things that are more important in a man than his football statistics. 

Jameis Winston was recently accused of rape.  It was pretty clear, to me and to everyone else who cares, that the Heisman Trophy voters were waiting/hoping for a decision to be made in Jameis Winston's sexual assault case before casting their ballots.  Understood.  Why would you vote for someone who's just going to get the trophy taken away soon anyway. (See also: Reggie Bush)  What a waste.  So when I tuned into the press conference held by the Florida State Attorney last Thursday (December 5th) I was thinking Jameis Winston was either going to be our Heisman Trophy Winner or he was going to jail.  Pretty opposite extremes, but it was the truth.  As I continued to watch the press conference I grew more confused and uncomfortable.  There was a lot of snark, smiles and laughter for such a serious matter.  It was like after they announced that Winston would not be charged, the rest didn't matter.  I felt the prosecutor was proud of the fact that he did not know that Heisman ballots were due in the coming days and that Winston was a potential favorite as if not to give preferential treatment to an athlete, when in fact, that's his duty.  The whole things seems a bit fishy to me.

The attorney said that there was not enough evidence to prove that he did rape the girl, meaning there is a chance that he did.  I guess the whole innocent until proven guilty thing comes into play here, but I have to question the character and integrity of a man (boy, really.  He's only 19) that is being accused of rape.  I wouldn't vote for Jameis Winston because the mission of the Heisman Trophy clearly states, "outstanding college football player whose performance best exhibits the pursuit of excellence with integrity".

The Heisman trophy needs to go to an admirable player both on and off the field!  That may not always be the actual case, but that's what is supposed to happen.  So what about the other finalists, or perhaps some that didn't make the cut?  My top 4 candidates for the Heisman Trophy would be: Johnny Manziel, Tre Mason, Aaron Murray and AJ McCarron.  

Johnny Manziel was the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner and a very deserving one.  He is an exciting player to watch.  Maybe the most exciting in all of college football.  I may not agree with his actions but you can't knock his playing style.  He can make an 11 yard run look like the run of the year!  Numbers wise, he had an even better 2013 season than he did in 2012, but I would not give him the trophy again this year in part due to his irresponsible actions in the off season.  

Aaron Murray is an outstanding QB dispute his team's overall record.  I think if the UGA defense was better or if they hadn't suffered so many injuries this season we'd be having a totally different conversation about the University of Georgia right now!  But the team's record doesn't make Aaron Murray any less of a quarterback.  He put up record-breaking numbers this season and still deserves recognition after his season-ending torn ACL the second to last game of the season.  I already told you he is a wonderful QB and from what I can see he is an all around wonderful guy!  Check out this string of tweets from Heisman voter, Gene Sapakoff, on why he would have voted for Aaron Murray if Jameis Winston was guilty and charged with rape.  Very Compelling.  

 

But, if I had a Heisman Trophy vote, I'd vote for AJ McCarron.  I know the stats are for the current year, but the kid is a great football player and quarterback with 2 championships, 3 losses, and only 13 interceptions.  For his career.  He handles himself well in all situations that I've seen.  He knows he is a leader and a role model and does not take that role lightly.  He is a fantastic football player and if this story doesn't prove his character and integrity, I don't know what does! 


So who deserves the most prestigious award in college football?  Who would have your vote for the Heisman Trophy?

Linking up with Sarah for Fan Friday!

National Championship Predictions

As sad as it is, this week is the last time we will have BCS standings, ever.  It's the last time College Football players, coaches, and fans will anxiously await their "fate".  Next year College Football adopts a playoff system starting with 4 teams.  Those 4 teams will play for their spot in the National Championship Game.  This weekend is the last time the National Championship contenders will be determined by "campaigning" and votes.  College Football is changing, in some ways for the better and others for the worse, but regardless of opinion, it's really the end of an era.

There are currently 5 teams in contention for the No. 1 and No. 2 spots in College Football and a shot at the National Championship Trophy.  Those teams are:

#1 FSU          

#2 Ohio State

#3 Auburn    

#4 Alabama  

#5 Missouri   

The SEC (Auburn vs. Missouri), ACC (FSU vs. Duke), and Big Ten (Ohio State vs. Michigan State) Championship Games are all this weekend which will ultimately determine the final rankings/fate of these teams heading into Bowl Season.  Alabama is the only team not playing this weekend.  If FSU and Ohio State both win, they will have undefeated records and therefore the No. 1 and No. 2 spots in the rankings and bids to the National Championship Game.  Done deal.  Regardless if people think a one loss SEC team is better than an undefeated ACC or Big Ten team, an undefeated season for any BCS team is not easy and that alone deserves a shot at the title.

There's no reason to believe that Florida State will not win on Saturday.  The numbers they have been putting up game after game are just outstanding.  And especially now with charges being dropped against Jameis Winston, I can't see the Seminoles losing.

Ohio State had a sub-par performance against Michigan last week, but ultimately came out with the win.  I think the hype of rivalry week and playing in The Big House got the best of them, they'll shake it off before heading into tomorrow's Championship game against Michigan State.

But what if one of them loses?  What if they both lose?  What will happen then?  In the event that FSU or Ohio State loses, that's when the SEC has a fair case for one of theirs to head to the National Championship Game for the ump-teenth year in a row.

If Auburn wins, they will have beaten 9 bowl eligible teams this season.  Pretty impressive, but Auburn also got extremely lucky this year. (See also: Johnny Manziel getting injured against Auburn, last minute answered prayer against Georgia, and well, beating Alabama).  I have to admit though, I was rooting for Auburn in the Iron Bowl.  How could I not root for the underdog, a team that went from zero conference wins to competing for the division title?

Alabama's dramatic, late-in-the-season loss to Auburn is enough to take them out of the National Championship talk for good.  If God is an Alabama fan, Ohio State and Auburn will lose on Saturday (and if FSU loses, we'll know for sure that God wants Alabama for compete for the title for the 3rd consecutive year).  If none of that happens, I believe we've seen the end of this Alabama dynasty!

What about a case for Mizzou?  Missouri is a great all around team.  They're great at passing and running; stopping and blocking.  Numbers don't necessarily show their dominance, but that's because they've blown their opponents away.  If Mizzou wins and Ohio State loses, they'll have to make a case against Alabama.  A Mizzou vs FSU National Championship game would be a great match-up between two teams who have showed pure dominance over their opponents throughout the season. 

Regardless of who plays for the National Championship Title, no one wants to see a boring blow out like we had last year.

My prediction is Florida State vs. Ohio State!

There's a slim chance we could have Ohio State vs. Alabama.  A game that would have been played out last year, had Ohio State been eligible... the suspense and excitement of this weekend literally has me on the edge of my seat, but I doubt it will top the events of last week!!!

What do you think will happen?  Who are you rooting for?

Click here to see my prediction at the beginning of the season!

Linking up with Sarah for Fan Friday! :)

Game to Watch :: Week 14

The Iron Bowl is the most important game of rivalry week as #1 Alabama takes on #4 Auburn.

For the first time ever, the winner of the Iron Bowl will go on to the SEC Championship Game.  Then, possibly a shot at that BCS National Championship trophy and without a doubt, bragging rights throughout the state of Alabama!

Just like in most rivalry or season- making/breaking games, never take your opponent for granted.  Either team has a fair shot at being victorious, so the real question is, who's the better Alabama team?!  Who deserves the bragging rights throughout the state and possibly a shot at the National Title?!

With the way Auburn's been playing this season, I don't doubt that they can beat Alabama, but will Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide let that happen?

Kick off is 3:30 Saturday from Auburn, Alabama!  This is a game you don't want to miss!! :)

Game to Watch :: Week 13

Baylor is one of six schools that remain undefeated heading into week 13.  Baylor is currently ranked #4 and looking to continue their feat and shock the country.  With a few unexpected turn of events this season, Baylor has a shot at the National Championship and their QB, Bryce Petty is climbing the Heisman Watch List.

This week Baylor takes on #10 Oklahoma State for a BIG 12 match-up, hoping to eliminate the Cowboys' potential Big 12 Champion Title (there is no official Championship game for the Big 12).  Baylor definitely has the talent to win this game as long as they stay focused on the here and now.  They can't be thinking ahead (to say, the National Championship) before coming out with a win over Oklahoma State, a team that's sure to put them to the test.

Baylor's offense is on fire, the best in the country, and outscoring their opponents by at least 10 points per game (at least 29 points per game if you don't count their 10-point win against Kansas State)!

Both teams perform at an uptempo pace and are sure to race back and forth to the end zone.  Just like in any close match-up, a great performance by special teams will be a benefit to either team. 

I think Baylor holds onto this one in what's sure to be a great game

Baylor- 45, Oklahoma State- 38

The game is tomorrow at  8:00 PM (ET) on ABC from Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma!


What games are you excited about this week?  Only a few weeks left before the excitement of Bowl Season and the Heisman Trophy!!!  Can you believe it?

Linking up with Sarah today for Fan Friday! :)

Game to Watch :: Week 12

Michigan State and Nebraska will be battling on Saturday for a chance to travel to the Big Ten Championship.  Michigan State is currently 8-1 and ranked #16 in the current BCS standings, while Nebraska is 7-2 overall.

The Nebraska- Michigan State match-up has a history of being “anyone’s game” despite each team’s strengths and the outcome.  Michigan State has been the better team throughout the season, so containing Nebraska and getting ahead will be key for the Spartans on Saturday.

Will the Spartans get their first-ever win against the Cornhuskers?  It’s going to be close, but I think so.

Spartans 24, Huskers, 17

Check out Project College Football for my full preview of the Nebraska/Michigan State game!!!

What games are you watching this week?

Tomorrow I am heading to Rutgers as they take on Cincinnati for the last time as conference rivals.  It's also my dad's 50th Birthday!!!!! So we'll be celebrating big time, even though we already had a surprise party for him!!! :)  I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!