It's two weeks before the Crusaders go to Kansas City to play William Jewel. WJC won on Saturday 29-26 vs. Southwest Baptist
William Jewel College:
Ranking: #146 National Liberal Arts College (2014)
Undergraduates: 1,052 (2014)
Acceptance rate: 60.90% (2014)
Tuition: $31,000 USD (2014)
Coach C says they are going "back into camp" over the next two weeks to find the most competitive 22 football players for this game. Let's see what that produces on September20th.
Bye is currently favored by -3.5
Glad to see the timing of the bye week. A good chance to assess and shift before too much season has flown past. Plus, it gives Jake more time to heal. Not feeling any game score prediction.
too early for a prediction. 62, are you looking forward to seeing USC making a trip to BC?
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 07, 2014, 09:31:19 PM
Bye is currently favored by -3.5
So the theme this week for Valpo football is
'N Sync - Bye Bye Bye (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo-KmOd3i7s#)
I think that we can pull this one out:
Valpo 28
WJC 24
Quote from: usc4valpo on September 07, 2014, 09:59:06 PM
too early for a prediction. 62, are you looking forward to seeing USC making a trip to BC?
After the USC win over Stanford, I am NOT looking forward to their appearance in Chestnut Hill -- especially after BC's loss to Pitt on Friday. I won't predict the WJC score at this point, but I'm thinking USC by maybe blow-out numbers.
that would be a beautiful thing. USC has a way to go but they look like they are in the right direction. I am concerned if they can get up for this game after the battle at the Farm last Saturday.
A few notes going into the WIlliam Jewell matchup:
1. Jewell's roster very much full of freshmen and sophomores. Very few upperclassmen
2. Their stadium looks pretty nice and it is a beautiful campus in a nice town north of KC
3. Much more of a ham and egger than St. Joe; give the team BBQ after the win.
4. Lots of great BBQ places, the best IMO is Jack Stack's but OK Joes is definitiely worth checking out
5. Hana's donuts are outstanding; their coffee is really good too.
I second the BBQ recommendation I worked in Overland Park (south side of the city) all last year and BBQ is a definite choice. Jack Stack is a full blown restaurant and sometimes the wait for seating can be an hour+. Oklahoma Joe's is more cafeteria style and informal. Both serve up great BBQ.
But, hey, let's stop with this ham and egger stuff when referring to any program that can offer 25 football scholarship. That's 25 more than Valpo. Based on our record the last several years WE are the ham and egger on everyone's schedule.
Bye week prediction - we don't lose this week.
For the Wm Jewell game, it should be another close game. I'm hoping that our offense gets healthy and we really perform.
Valpo 34
Wm Jewell 30
Saders 27
Jewell 17
62, I will have to respectfully disagree - the Crusader should be able to defeat small schools. Regarding the 25 scholarships, does that really make a difference? The players at Valpo are getting academic scholarships. At the end, money is money.
Valpo should beat teams like Jewell.
We agree to disagree. And we are also a small school. But I think/hope your prediction is spot on.
62 - it is all good. I appreciate using the "ham and egger" term for "tomato can" teams. A famous manager once used to describe various opponents as "ham and eggers" and I have used that term now and then.
I am not a Koolaid optimist like some on the board, but this should be and will be a win for the Saders. Will I predict a win against Drake or San Diego or Butler or Dayton - no. This game - yes.
I am in line with that approach. Not to get too far ahead of ourselves, but one game that should be a win is Missouri Baptist at homecoming on October 11. MBU, in its first year, is 0-2 so far having lost to FCS SE Missouri State ( 77-0) and University of St. Francis (IN) (42-10). But these guys are not backing down from competition and had a back who ran for 117 yards against a very good St. Francis team last week. FCS-wise, in addition to SE Mo State and Valpo they also play @ Campbell.
Some games we should be monitoring in our off week:
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2014
Charleston Southern 34, Campbell 10 -- CSU is FCS scholarship. Campbell so far has played and lost to 2 FBS teams and CSU.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2014
Dayton at Duquesne 12:00 p.m.
San Diego at Jacksonville 12:00 p.m.
Davidson at VMI 1:30 p.m. Davidson beat a team with no campus and then lost to D-II Catawba. VMI is FCS scholarship.
Drake at Western Illinois 4:00 p.m. Goes back to the comparative speculation thing.
Butler at Youngstown State 4:00 p.m. We know how good YSU usually is -- be interesting to see how Butler measures up after squeaking by Wittenberg.
Georgetown at Marist 6:00 p.m. Marist could be having a down year. Georgetown is 0-2 in the Patriot.
Mercer at Stetson 6:00 p.m.
Morehead State at Eastern Kentucky 6:00 p.m.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 12, 2014, 09:37:03 AM
I am in line with that approach. Not to get too far ahead of ourselves, but one game that should be a win is Missouri Baptist at homecoming on October 11. MBU, in its first year, is 0-2 so far having lost to FCS SE Missouri State ( 77-0) and University of St. Francis (IN) (42-10). But these guys are not backing down from competition and had a back who ran for 117 yards against a very good St. Francis team last week. FCS-wise, in addition to SE Mo State and Valpo they also play @ Campbell.
Too be honest with you I'm not as comfortable with the Homecoming game as I once was since reading this. I think Valpo should win but if MoBap has a decent running back-----still too much unknown at this time and Valpo can't take any college football team lightly.
Agree bbtds. For a first year NAIA program they have scheduled some tough customers. It's a far cry from Davidson scheduling College of Faith. Mizzou Baptist has a pretty strong and comprehensive athletic program. FB is just being added within an established infrastructure. They have a 92 player roster. 62 Freshmen, 24 sophs and 6 juniors. Of those 92: 14 are 200-219, 13 are 220-259, 11 are 250- 275, 3 are 276-300, and 6 are over 305.
College of Faith is far from that.
But we are way ahead of ourselves at this point. Gotta concentrate on a good bye week and then Wm. Jewel.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 12, 2014, 06:56:17 PMGotta concentrate on a good bye week
(http://emilylhauserinmyhead.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/wavegoodbye.jpg)
I was lol-ing seeing that. I remember the White Sox back in 70's at the old Comiskey Park when they had Fantasy Island night with Tattoo at the game batting away. Then the exploding scoreboard went off after a Fantasy home run.
Tattoo certainly wasn't an all work and no play guy
(http://img2-1.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/080421/Tattoos/Tattoo-Fantasy-Island_l.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a205/timotes253/Herve1.jpg)
Is the only reason expectations are higher against William Jewel is because they are D2 (scholarship) and Valpo is D1? There is more than just scholarship "money" that gives other scholarship schools an advantage. Scholarship schools can weight lift/practice the whole summer where Valpo only practices a month before their first game. The NCAA now allows universities to give 24 hour unlimited meals to all athletes even walk-ons. Valpo doesn't offer unlimited free meals to their football players so many may be hungry at night and in recruiting this will also hurt us. If Valpo doesn't give athletic scholarship they could at least cover football players meals or offer them a dorm in the summer to stay on campus and workout even if they still had to pay for a summer classes. That's why other teams even St. Joe look bigger than Valpo because they workout all year and summer and most Valpo players don't. When recruiting Valpo won't attract the same caliber of athletes that other schools will because the facilities are below most D3 schools for football players. The locker room is a joke and any kid smart enough to be accepted at Valpo will also be accepted at other highly ranked universities. So really most kids that attend Valpo are "tweeners"...they probably had many D3 and D2 offers but didn't get a D1 scholarship so they choose Valpo because they want to say "I played D1 football" but really they are no different than most D3 kids because they basically "pay to play."
The real issue is why can't Valpo compete in the Pioneer League where the "playing field" is equal? I believe the main reason has been our facilities and recruiting. If Butler and Valpo want the same kid and he visits both schools he's going to Butler because their weight and locker rooms are much better (I know Valpo just upgraded the weight room so I'm talking historically) unless the kid wants to major in engineering. I recently went to visit Rose Hulman in Terre Haute and their locker room was just beautiful! If a small D3 school can invest $30K in nice lockers then why can't Valpo? I guess Coach Cecchini has do another fundraiser alumni for money again to get a locker room upgrade? The university should be ashamed that they haven't stepped up at all and done something other than switching helmets and coaches to improve the program. "No" I don't think putting a track around a football field will make a potential football recruit say "Wow look at that track.... I want to play football for Valpo." Valpo Athletic Dept. sends the football players an email asking them for $400 to buy their football helmet so they could keep it. They sacrifice so much of their time, energy, body etc..for the team for 4 years with no scholarship then you ask them to pay for their equipment?
I'm not sure if Valpo can beat William Jewell because I've never seen WJ play. Yet if we do it will be all about Valpo coaching because we are "basically" playing with the same kids we've had and those players had the same facilities, talent and practice time on the field that they've always had...... Other than Kye Hall and maybe 2 other freshman I haven't seen our young guys so I would assume they aren't ready yet.
Thanks for the post and welcome to the forum valpchgo. Much of what you mention has been discussed here multiple times from a multitude of perspectives. Generally, while not speaking for anyone else, the facilities thing is an issue that I believe we all accept as valid as is your perception of some of the D-III characteristics of a non-scholarship D-I FCS program. However, there are other issues you cite that might not be as valid.
Year round vs. Valpo not year round: Carlson before him and Cecchini both have instituted supervised as well as unsupervised off-season training programs and the new weight room is going to be an even bigger contributor to the year-round aspect of the football program. In addition there is a full Spring football schedule that complies with NCAA rules, just like any other D-I program.
24 hour unlimited meals: I don't think our players go to bed hungry during the school year. There is no FB training table like at Alabama, but all the students are part of the meal plan should they choose like any other student.
On campus over the summer: For a number of summers FB players have been staying on campus and hitting the weights and doing other FB stuff to maintain their shape and improve strength. While not everyone, I have heard numbers like 30-35 do this. It's voluntary.
Again welcome aboard.
I must agree with valpochgo on several fronts. I applaud coach Cecchini for all he has done to make these players finally feel like they are playing for a D1 program. The weight room is first class and one the players are excited about. The workouts, attitude and expectations are from a place of D1 mentality and the kids are motivated and working hard. They want to win and I believe they will.
However, as far as 24 hour unlimited meals: the players ARE going to bed hungry. Yes, they are part of a meal plan, but the food is so expensive (they get no discounts, etc) they do not want to spend too much for fear their plan will not last until the end of the semester. Consequently, they end of buying pizza or getting fast food as it is cheaper than Valpo's food.... Yet still costing them even more than they can afford. They routinely lose weight during the season, something our linemen especially cannot afford to do. The NCAA directive of unlimited food for D1 athletes sadly does not cover the non-scholarship schools.... Whose players need it the most (they already spend a small fortune to "pay to play"). If they players ate enough during the football season to not be hungry, their meal plan would run out mid-semester. They are hungry. Period.
As far as training and staying on campus over the summer, yes; players are welcome to stay and work out. Unfortunately, they are not provided dorms to stay in at no charge. I guarantee that if housing was provided the majority of players would stay and work out with teammates. Again, financial constraints. Players simply cannot afford to pay full tuition and housing during the school year then also pay for housing over the summer. Instead they are going home and working full time and training so they can afford to return to school in the fall and play football.
Again though, thrilled with the new coaching staff and the efforts Cecchini is making with the facilities and the program. The players feel respected. They, in turn, respect Cecchini. Step in the right direction.
VUMSB, welcome aboard too. Not being in close contact with the players on a day-to-date basis, which you seem to be, I'll take your's and Valpochgo's words as what's happening regarding the food issue. I don't know what the NCAA rules are regarding the free dorm rooms in the summer might be. But, regardless, I can see the hardship in ponying up additional personal funds to stay on campus -- especially if it might mean forfeiting a summer job back home that helps to defray the cost of school.
Glad to hear that there is a positive coaching staff/players relationship building. That kind of relationship is very much needed in order to move the whole program forward. We still have to get bigger, stronger, faster and deeper over the next year or so and that, unfortunately, is a slow process.
the ala carte system is kicking our behinds...
my question is if the other Pioneer league schools are providing 24 hour meals. If they are and Valpo is not, then we have a major problem.
The lack of food issue was discussed with me by the old Valpo coaching staff so I know that it is still an issue now. Also the new weight room is great but it was just finished in late July and the players will need a whole year of conditioning to really benefit from the new facility. During the season workouts are light for the players except the freshman that are going to be redshirted do a heavy lift on Fridays. Yet with the team struggling in the first 2 games there are many freshmen who aren't participating in the heavy lift because the coach's aren't sure if they will need to play them on Saturday especially after the first game when basic blocking and tackling was an issue with upperclassman that did play. I hear that there are some freshmen that have really shined in practice but the coaches are trying to redshirt them because they worry that physically they are not quite ready for the size of D1 kids. This was told to me by coaches and by some upperclassman on the team so I believe there may be a few more talented kids on the team then we think. Valpo was recruiting a great athlete I met and so was Grand Valley State. His dad wanted him to go to Valpo and money wasn't an issue because he loved the prestige that came with a Valpo degree. Yet his son decided on GVS because of the stadium, locker room and facilities. So it's not always about the athletic scholarship when kids chose schools.
Yet inspite of the issues the kids do love the new coaching staff and each other. It's just going to probably take 2 years before we see the Valpo team we expect and can be proud of..... Yet in the meantime don't be surprised if we still lose like in the past few years. It's going to take time to turn things around but my personal issues are not with the players or coaches but the university for not stepping up more in support of the program more in the past. Hopefully, Coach Cecchini can influence the university to do more in the future.
I will find out what the other Pioneer Schools are doing around meals because I have some football contacts at Dayton and Drake.
It's as simple as the fact that football is non-scholarship! We cannot provide them free 24 hour meals, they aren't allowed to have free boarding in the summer, and they have to pay for their helmets, all for this reason. Heck, we had to pay to get a framed jersey when we finished with our baseball career at Valpo, as well. I think that if you wanted to get a jersey when your career was finished, you had to pony up the money during your FR season, and it was something like $100-$150 10-15 years ago when I was in school. I love to look at this jersey on my home office wall, but it wasn't given to us for free.
I don't feel bad for athletes not being able to eat 24 hours/day for free at a school like Valpo. We are not a national powerhouse focused on athletics. You go to most mid-major schools because of the education provided, not because you want to be the next NFL/NBA/MLB star. I had no issues whatsoever in eating enough food when I was playing, through the training table. We worked out all of the time, same as all sports, and I didn't see anyone going hungry. If you are brought to the school under the assumption that it is a full ride, that is the only reason I can see for adding a stipend for food. If you have anything less than a 100% scholarship, you knew what you were buying into when you came to Valpo.
Sorry if my opinion offends anyone, but I hate this entitlement attitude that recent NCAA athletes have in regards to the benefits of going to college. I understand that NCAA execs shouldn't be making so much money, and the same for Athletic Department heads, but that doesn't mean that you should be a paid athlete for playing college sports.
I don't think there is one kid on that football team who feels "entitled" to anything, including free 24 hour food or free housing over the summer.... Maybe just a little respect for their commitment, work ethic and dedication. Yes, they know they must win games to earn yours, and that is what they are determined to do.
There are nearly 100 football players who bring in millions of dollars in tuition to the school just for the privilege of playing Division I football. Yes, they are getting a great education, but honestly, would they be at Valparaiso bringing in these tuition dollars had they not been offered a spot on the football team? No, they would not. They are not asking for anything else in return... So I believe they are hardly feeling entitled. They just want to win football games for their school.
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It's amazing that you would think that a football player or baseball player at Valpo should pay for his helmet and jersey when Valpo basketball players get full athletic scholarships. Yet you wonder why we can't attract the same talent as other universities and we always lose? If your son plays football at Valpo and got hurt who do you think will be paying his insurance and deductibles? So, when you see these kids getting hurt every week it's their parents that are paying the deductible for their doctors visits and surgeries that could go on way past college their college career....I do think they are entitled to eat if they are hungry.
Agree. I think this previous "entitlement" discussion should be saved and directed to those scholarship athletes who continually want more. It is not a relevant discussion for the football athletes at Valpo.
However, do I think that they are entitled to be fed more or given a discount on extra food? Yes.
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Quote from: vumsb on September 13, 2014, 07:30:20 PM
Agree. I think this previous "entitlement" discussion should be saved and directed to those scholarship athletes who continually want more. It is not a relevant discussion for the football athletes at Valpo.
However, do I think that they are entitled to be fed more or given a discount on extra food? Yes.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Never, and I mean
NEVER, cross the ladies in the union dining hall.
(http://hillcresthornets.org/_beats/on_the_hill/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/lunch-lady.jpg)
The one in the middle is in charge of the football team. "Where's the camera?"
We've gotten off track relative to the expectations for this next game. Entitlements aside, all PFL teams are playing under the same guidelines. You can't tell me that say, Drake, allows their players to eat all they want or have tvs in the crappers in the locker room.
We all understand and appreciate the commitment of Valpo football players. Although many years ago, I once was one of them. Quite simply, we need to stop finding excuses and find a way to win. Winning programs garner alumni interest and the financial support that follows.
Some of the scores are in. The PFL was not a factor in OOC games by substantial margins (at least through the afternoon) and JU upset USD .
FROM EARLIER THIS WEEK:
Some games we should be monitoring in our off week:
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2014
Charleston Southern 34, Campbell 10 -- CSU is FCS scholarship. Campbell so far has played and lost to 2 FBS teams and CSU.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2014
Dayton {13} at Duquesne {33} 12:00 p.m.
San Diego {18} at Jacksonville {35} 12:00 p.m.
Davidson {24} at VMI {52} 1:30 p.m. Davidson beat a team with no campus and then lost to D-II Catawba. VMI is FCS scholarship.
Drake {13} at Western Illinois {38} 4:00 p.m. Goes back to the comparative speculation thing.
Butler {13} at Youngstown State {44} 4:00 p.m. We know how good YSU usually is -- be interesting to see how Butler measures up after squeaking by Wittenberg.
Georgetown at Marist 6:00 p.m. Marist could be having a down year. Georgetown is 0-2 in the Patriot.
Mercer at Stetson 6:00 p.m.
Morehead State at Eastern Kentucky 6:00 p.m.
My thoughts:
>> JU over USD is a bit of a shocker, but USD had not been tested and JU had some tough games under their belt.
>> Drake/WIU. Lost by less than 30. Drake V. Valpo -- projects to a 21 point loss at Brown Field. BUT, we have traditionally be a tough nut for Drake to crack. These games have been the most competitive losses in the last 4 years.
>> Davidson hasn't faced much competition, but to put 24 up against an FCS team (VMI was 0-2 going in) is still noteworthy. A DC WR hauled in 16 passes.
>> Dayton/Duquesne: Duquesne was 0-2 coming in, but the loses were to FBS Buffalo (85 scholarships) and YSU FCS (65 scholarships) compared to the NEC limit which, I believe now is in the 25 - 30 range (?)
Quote from: valpotx on September 13, 2014, 05:56:13 PM
and they have to pay for their helmets,
Excuse me TX , but I do not believe this is a correct statement.. At one point the kids had to pay for their own cleats, but I'm told that stopped during the Carlson era. At no time would a university expose itself to the liability associated with having students buying their own helmets (or prevent players from participating because they can't afford a helmet).
Football parents, please weigh in on the stuff the players are required to provide and straighten us out. It does us no good to talk about past practices (hey, when I played there wasn't a thing that was not provided by the college, but that was a different era). We need to have an accurate picture of what it is like today.
Quote from: vu72 on September 13, 2014, 07:41:36 PM
We've gotten off track relative to the expectations for this next game.
Yes, but this is the bye week and hearing some of this stuff (as well as clearing some air) is worthwhile IMO.
To help get us back on the topic: Wm. Jewel 0 -- Colorado School of Mines 46.WJC is 1-1. CSM is D-II.
Players are provided helmets. However, badly needed new helmets were purchased for the team this season, and players were given an option to purchase their helmet -- that they would keep throughout their Valpo career and afterwards for $250. Cleats and all other necessary equipment are also provided.
Interesting.
UPDATE
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 13, 2014, 07:51:30 PM
Some of the scores are in. The PFL was not a factor in OOC games by substantial margins (at least through the afternoon) and JU upset USD .
FROM EARLIER THIS WEEK:
Some games we should be monitoring in our off week:
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2014
Charleston Southern 34, Campbell 10 -- CSU is FCS scholarship. Campbell so far has played and lost to 2 FBS teams and CSU.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2014
Dayton {13} at Duquesne {33} 12:00 p.m.
San Diego {18} at Jacksonville {35} 12:00 p.m.
Davidson {24} at VMI {52} 1:30 p.m. Davidson beat a team with no campus and then lost to D-II Catawba. VMI is FCS scholarship.
Drake {13} at Western Illinois {38} 4:00 p.m. Goes back to the comparative speculation thing.
Butler {13} at Youngstown State {44} 4:00 p.m. We know how good YSU usually is -- be interesting to see how Butler measures up after squeaking by Wittenberg.
Georgetown at Marist 6:00 p.m. Marist could be having a down year. Georgetown is 0-2 in the Patriot.
Mercer at Stetson 6:00 p.m.
Morehead State at Eastern Kentucky 6:00 p.m.
My thoughts:
>> JU over USD is a bit of a shocker, but USD had not been tested and JU had some tough games under their belt.
>> Drake/WIU. Lost by less than 30. Drake V. Valpo -- projects to a 21 point loss at Brown Field. BUT, we have traditionally be a tough nut for Drake to crack. These games have been the most competitive losses in the last 4 years.
>> Davidson hasn't faced much competition, but to put 24 up against an FCS team (VMI was 0-2 going in) is still noteworthy. A DC WR hauled in 16 passes.
>> Dayton/Duquesne: Duquesne was 0-2 coming in, but the loses were to FBS Buffalo (85 scholarships) and YSU FCS (65 scholarships) compared to the NEC limit which, I believe now is in the 25 - 30 range (?)
Georgetown 27 - Marist 7: Marist is in a down year. They have scored 14 and given up 77 in three games. Out of character for the Foxes.
Mercer 49 - Stetson 0: PFL is O-fer against FCS opponents this week
Aggregate for 7 games:
FCS 277 - PFL 80 OR by average score: FCS 39.6 - PFL 11.4. Kinda confirms what we discussed previously.
So much for that. Now the PFL teams will face the reality of the PFL season against each other pretty much -- as it should be.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 13, 2014, 08:06:33 PM
Quote from: valpotx on September 13, 2014, 05:56:13 PM
and they have to pay for their helmets,
Excuse me TX , but I do not believe this is a correct statement.. At one point the kids had to pay for their own cleats, but I'm told that stopped during the Carlson era. At no time would a university expose itself to the liability associated with having students buying their own helmets (or prevent players from participating because they can't afford a helmet).
Football parents, please weigh in on the stuff the players are required to provide and straighten us out. It does us no good to talk about past practices (hey, when I played there wasn't a thing that was not provided by the college, but that was a different era). We need to have an accurate picture of what it is like today.
Quote from: vu72 on September 13, 2014, 07:41:36 PM
We've gotten off track relative to the expectations for this next game.
Yes, but this is the bye week and hearing some of this stuff (as well as clearing some air) is worthwhile IMO.
To help get us back on the topic: Wm. Jewel 0 -- Colorado School of Mines 46.
WJC is 1-1. CSM is D-II.
Uh, it was a correct statement, because I was talking about paying to KEEP the helmet after school, similar to the comment I was responding to. I was also talking about paying to KEEP my baseball jersey. This is also in response to Valpochgo, in that we didn't have to pay for the jersey in order to play in games with it, but to KEEP the jersey. I have to think that the reason you have to pay to keep the helmet and jerseys has something to do with gifts not being allowed for NCAA athletes. We had team bats paid for by the program, helmets, uniforms, catcher's equipment, etc. We did have to pay for our own cleats, batting gloves, fielding gloves, and a few other things.
Sure, they are entitled to eat when hungry, and they can pay to do so, same as everyone else. I didn't have a large scholarship, so I/my family had to pay for all of my food as well. I don't feel bad for anyone having to pay for their kid to eat while in college, especially at a school where the athletic program does not really turn a profit. We aren't the University of Texas, Notre Dame, etc, that make a large profit on their sports teams. The one area I can agree with you is regarding injury insurance provided by the athletic department. I don't think that they should have to pay for all bills associated with an injury, but be able to provide some form of insurance might be possible. If someone gets hurt playing in college, it isn't the school's fault, but rather a possibility of the game. Again, you don't go to Valpo thinking that it is a cash cow that is going to provide for everything you need...
Quote from: valpochgo on September 13, 2014, 12:35:41 PMI believe the main reason has been our facilities and recruiting.
Speaking of facilities I think we need Moore.
(http://www.theargus.co.uk/resources/images/3256331.jpg?type=display)
What?Roger Moore, that is! That guy is one of the best fundraisers in history.
"Bond, James Bond" would have the money really coming in.
A few things -
1. Regarding meals, we should compare Valpo to the rest of the Pioneer league teams.
2. I cannot believe at any time that players were required to buy their own helmets or jerseys. Perhaps you have the option to, but paying for your helmet cannot be required. If that's the case, we need to get out of football.
2. Regarding finances, do not compare the basketball program to other programs at Valpo. Basketball is the flagship sport. Valpo will not reduce basketball funding for the sake of football.
Again, no one has to buy their helmet or jersey. They only do so if they want to KEEP them AFTER college
Quote from: usc4valpo on September 13, 2014, 11:49:36 PMValpo will not reduce basketball funding for the sake of football.
Are you absolutely sure that this hasn't happened already?
Valpo athletics pays all medical bills that insurance doesn't cover (deductibles, co-pays, anything out of pocket) for injuries so that families don't have to--I spoke with Stahl's dad who said it worked great. As for the helmets this year--if a player wanted to make sure he received one of the new, better helmets,then he could pay for it and eventually keep it. If he didn't pay, maybe he would get one or maybe not. Parents weren't happy. However, if we win a few games none of these issues of equipment, food, or facilities will seem as important. Let's hope the team made some big adjustments over the week and that a few guys had time to heal up.
Quote from: usc4valpo on September 13, 2014, 11:49:36 PM
A few things -
1. Regarding meals, we should compare Valpo to the rest of the Pioneer league teams.
First off USC, sorry about that smack-down in Chestnut Hill last night. Do you believe that the Trojans gave up over 400 yards on the ground to a mediocre BC team? Do you also believe that the Trojan running game was all but choked off? Shows you what attitude can do. And that translates to our Crusaders as well. When these kids realize what they can do and believe in themselves, good things will happen. I think we have a coaching staff that will put them in a good position to realize that. It's all about
Carpe Diem.
Now to your quote. ABSOLUTELY AGREE.
All comparisons should be against fellow PFL programs. I'm as guilty as the next guy falling into the comparison trap of VU versus scholarship FCS programs. I gotta stop doing that. The PFL is unique and now, with the exception of the Ivies, is the only non-schiolarship FCS league. It exists for a purpose and that purpose is very clear.
IMO kids come to play football at Valpo for:
The quality of education
The small college campus environment
Attending a university that is D-I in all sports
Traveling across the country and competing against similar universities on a national stage
Seeing the Valpo name on the ESPN crawler (hopefully showing competitive scores and a few wins going forward) but also seeing the crawler during MBB season and being able to say "that's my school."
So, as long as we are spending at the median or above of PFL schools; as long as our facilities are at the median or above of PFL schools; record-wise, we should expect to be in the middle of the pack or better compared to other PFL schools. If we are not at that point, changes within this context need to be made to get us there. And I believe changes are being made to get to that point after years of benign neglect: i.e., New D-I-experienced staff, facility upgrades and plans for further expansion of those football-specific facilities. We just have to extend our patience a bit longer.
62-
Thanks for the kind words. USC got burned out. I think all their physical and mental energy was spent at the Farm. IMO, once they get their full allotment of scholarships as long as the NCAA plays fair, I think they have a great chance of being really good. Boston College played with power, heart and stayed with their game plan.
d
Valpo will win against Jewell - period. Give the men good BBQ after the win, no McDonald or applebees or olive garden junk
Good to hear that Valpo DOES pay for the medical bills due to injuries. That is a neat benefit. I definitely received my worth of using the Trainers to ice my arm down after each practice lol. I got to know them pretty well, as well as Rod :)
OK -- Just like the Crusaders, it's GAME WEEK for the Fan Zone Forum. Time to focus on our opponent, William Jewel College
SCOUTING REPORT
OPPONENT: William Jewel Cardinals
GAME LOCATION: Liberty, MO
ROSTER COMPOSITION: 39 FR, 22 SO, 21 JR, 10 SR / 92 Total
AFFILIATION: NCAA D-II, Great Lakes Valley Conference
2013 RECORD: 3-8 (but beat VU 36-34)
2014 RECORD: 1-1
LAST TIME OUT: Lost on the road to Colorado School of Mines (D-II, Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference)
SELECTED STATS:
Stat WJC CSM
1st Downs 12 34
Rushing 47 for 80 31 for 148
Passing: 15/33/1 int - 173 41/60/1 int - 360
Total Offense: 253 508
Fumbles/Lost: 1/1 3/1
Sacks By: 4 3
PREVIOUSLY Beat SW Baptist University at home 29-26
[Aaron and staff, of course, will have the more complete official game notes later in the week.]
ASSESSMENT:
Valpo is coming off a bye week after being beat up by a St. Joe's running attack that produced 294 yards on the ground on the way to a 31-10 VU loss. This past bye week the team has gone back to basics and is reevaluating everything in an effort to determine the best 22 starters and to get their game faces back on.
Based on game recaps and the box score, William Jewel is a young team that looks like it is looking for its identity. For example: WJC appears to have used 3 QBs fairly equally (13, 11, 9 attempts respectively) in the loss to CSM, none of whom threw for more than 81 yards.
CONCLUSION:
:) Valpo wins if: On defense they play hardnosed defense to shut down the run, especially at the edge (off tackle and outside), force WJC to pass and then take advantage of interceptions and sacks. On offense the Crusaders have to make the ground attack work and they have to distribute their passes better (e.g., get Gladney more into the mix) and involve RBs in the passing attack in the flat and with screens. Key points: Stop Cook (new). VU has to score TDs when inside the 5. On special teams VU needs to stifle Cook's returns.
>:( WJC wins if: On defense they shut down VU's running attack and then keep VU passes (and Kuramata) in front of them. On offense they need to protect their passer better than last week and have to establish a running attack i.e., spring Cook loose . That attack last week accounted for 133 yards but also lost 53. Special teams have to open up opportunities for Cook on punt returns and KO returns.
Just In: The Valpo All-Access Video:
Valpo Football Preview 9|15|14 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVtHDHEJVCc#ws)
After watching the Preview I went back to check on Cook's rushing numbers:
> Vs. SWBU - 20 for 102 and a 90 yard KO return for game winning TD with 3:55 left in the 4th
> Vs. CSM - 17 for 48 yards and no significant return yardage
> He is a 5-11, 192# junior this season
A look at his performance in last year's game:
> 22 carries for 175 yards
> TD runs of 27, 73 and 11
> BTW we also gave up a 60 yard TD pass
From the WJC website some awards for Cook last year and before:
> GLVC Freshman of the year
> Special teams player of the year
> 2nd team All-Conference punt returner
> 2nd team All-conference Running back
> All-American (soph?)
BTW -- The VU Football Schedule says that there will be LIVE VIDEO. I'm staying home for this one. It is now turning into THE pivotal game of the season. If we win, we stand a chance against Campbell @ Campbell (they are much improved and have scheduled incredibly tough OOC opponents), Davidson at home, maybe Marist at home, and definitely Missouri Baptist at Homecoming. Oh hell, maybe even Drake. This is the linchpin game to a potential 4-8 season and better things to come in 2015.
THOUGHTS?
It does scare me that the WJC defense is going to throw the kitchen sink at Valpo while VU is still searching to find more options than just a short passing game on offense. It will again come down to both the offensive and defensive lines and getting the running game going.
There is much more faith in me that WJC's Cook, who is looking to find a way to breakout within WJC's offense for a big yardage game, will be handled by Valpo's improving linebackers. Again the key will be the defensive line.
I know one thing. William Jewell will be warned not to let their J's in WJC be exposed but also their milk cow/"dairy air" backgrounds.
Let's win this one for the Zipper!
Also let's beat out the frustrations of the previous 10 or so years and nail down the game throughout. Once you have a good series don't let up!!!!!!
62- In reality, if Valpo goes 4-8, they will have exceeded expectations. That would be a drastic improvement over the Osteen years. Campbell will be more difficult this year.
Just for usc
(http://clashdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/3MenIn_A_Tub-1.jpg)
They tried to explain it away as a baptism but the beverages had their own "water-into-wine" effect on the boys that day and they forgot the baptizee.
this was most outstanding. I appreciate the humor. thanks.
Quote from: usc4valpo on September 15, 2014, 09:33:27 PM
62- In reality, if Valpo goes 4-8, they will have exceeded expectations. That would be a drastic improvement over the Osteen years. Campbell will be more difficult this year.
If we at win WJC and get our heads straightened out, Mo Baptist and Davidson are within grasp (3-9) but are not sure things. Campbell, Marist and maybe Drake are BIG stretches as possible candidates for one surprise upset for a fourth win. That's all I am saying. But first things first - WJC has go to go down or the road to even one win becomes very bumpy and almost vertical. And if it gets to that point, we can only hope for more closely competitive games as consolation prizes.
Quote from: bbtds on September 15, 2014, 09:13:34 PM
It does scare me that the WJC defense is going to throw the kitchen sink at Valpo while VU is still searching to find more options than just a short passing game on offense. It will again come down to both the offensive and defensive lines and getting the running game going.
There is much more faith in me that WJC's Cook, who is looking to find a way to breakout within WJC's offense for a big yardage game, will be handled by Valpo's improving linebackers. Again the key will be the defensive line.
I know one thing. William Jewell will be warned not to let their J's in WJC be exposed but also their milk cow/"dairy air" backgrounds.
Let's win this one for the Zipper!
Also let's beat out the frustrations of the previous 10 or so years and nail down the game throughout. Once you have a good series don't let up!!!!!!
For Valpo, it will always come down to the bulls up front on both sides of the ball. Guys like Bama Powell (6-4, 305) need to be recruited
and retained on D and we need to strive for 285+ and strong and mean from T to T on O. Without that, great backs, QBs and linebackers and DBs become average.
Do anyone know if the game will be steam and if so please provide a link..
Thank
Quote from: NuPudge on September 17, 2014, 06:08:34 AM
Do anyone know if the game will be steam and if so please provide a link..
Thank
http://www.jewellcardinals.com/watch/ (http://www.jewellcardinals.com/watch/)
This is all I could find. Apparently the Valpo at WJC game will show for free at this website. It starts at 12:30 p.m. CT for the 1:00 p.m. game. 9/20/2014 Saturday
http://www.jewellcardinals.com/documents/2013/10/12/Generic_Travel_Packet2.pdf?tab=visitingteaminformationguide (http://www.jewellcardinals.com/documents/2013/10/12/Generic_Travel_Packet2.pdf?tab=visitingteaminformationguide)
This website could be helpful for those going to the game. Although it seems no specific BBQ restaurants in Liberty.
I see no evidence that the broadcast is steam powered. ;D
Spot on BBTDS. Noted that the game will be streamed in my preview on Monday. Hope it is better quality than what WIU was feeding.
The official game preview is on the Valpo site. I checked the two-deep and did not see much in the way of changes. Basically the same 44 with just a little movement, but not much. Ben Lehman is the #1 QB and Scott Staal is the back-up (that was mentioned in the Dave Cecchini interview with Todd earlier this week).
http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/news/2014-15/13895/football-heads-to-show-me-state-for-showdown-with-william-jewell/#.VBnHBksXKgE (http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/news/2014-15/13895/football-heads-to-show-me-state-for-showdown-with-william-jewell/#.VBnHBksXKgE)
From the preview:
Scouting William Jewell: The Cardinals welcome Valparaiso to town as the Crusaders aim for their first win in the state of Missouri since 1969. WJC's win over Southwest Baptist University in Week 1 snapped its nine-game losing streak at Greene Stadium. William Jewell's offense is powered by junior running back Thomas Cook. A highly-elusive, athletic back, Cook burned the Brown and Gold in last season's game at Brown Field as he recorded three touchdowns in addition to 175 rushing yards on 22 carries. Redshirt senior DJ Balazs is listed atop the WJC two-deep at quarterback. He had just one pass attempt versus Valpo last year - and it was picked off by Alex Grask. The Cardinals have rotated in three QBs in their first two games, so if Balazs falters early, don't be surprised to see Colby Bowles or Nick West receive some snaps under center.
While the William Jewell defense has yet to assemble a signature game, it does boast several impressive numbers. In just two games, the Cardinal D has accumulated 17 tackles for a loss, eight sacks, and forced six fumbles - four of which were recovered. Jimmy DeStefano and Marquis Moye are on their way to strong campaigns. DeStefano has already tallied 26 tackles (three for a loss), a pair of sacks, an interception, and a fumble recovery. He led the WJC defense with 12 tackles, including two for a loss, last season at Valpo. Moye, a sophomore, has registered three sacks for a total of 28 yards thus far.
On special teams, Brandon Womack is 2-for-3 on extra points and converted his only FG attempt - a 27-yarder - in the second quarter of the Southwest Baptist contest. Junior Zane Kitchell has managed the punting duties for William Jewell. Kitchell averages 37.6 yards per boot and has pinned opponents inside their own 20-yard line three times in 14 punts. Cook pulls double duty on kickoff and punt returns. His 90-yard, fourth quarter TD return in Week 1 came right after Southwest Baptist had taken a 26-22 lead over the Cardinals.
Here is a YouTube of the WJC post game show following their loss to Colorado School of Mines.
Some interesting information heading into the game this Saturday. They are very proud of their defense and as Coach Cecchini mentioned in his All-Access show, they come after you as soon as you step out of the locker room. Our OL will be under a lot of pressure to protect Ben and open holes for Jake, Brandon and Grayson.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDpul5LSJ8E (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDpul5LSJ8E)
Thanks to Valpochgo for finding it.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 18, 2014, 08:56:17 AM
Here is a YouTube of the WJC post game show following their loss to Colorado School of Mines.
Some interesting information heading into the game this Saturday. They are very proud of their defense and as Coach Cecchini mentioned in his All-Access show, they come after you as soon as you step out of the locker room. Our OL will be under a lot of pressure to protect Ben and open holes for Jake, Brandon and Grayson.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDpul5LSJ8E (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDpul5LSJ8E)
Thanks to Valpochgo for finding it.
Yikes, I hope our offensive coaches figure out a way to handle and get around their aggressive D or we are dead meat in KC. And that ain't a good thing.
Side Note: Frank and Jesse James father, Robert James, was a Baptist minister and one of the co-founders of WJC.
Matthew 5:45
I have been avoiding making a prediction so far. But the players have boarded their busses, they will do a run through this afternoon and the KO is tomorrow. Can't push it off any longer. WJC scares me, but here goes.
VALPO WINS IF:
DEFENSE – The front 7 contains Cook and holds him under 100 yards for the game. WJC is forced into more passing by their 3 rotating QBs and the secondary produces at least 1 pic. No big dispiriting big gainers are allowed.
OFFENSE -- The OL responds to the WJC pressure defense and gives Ben time to throw and our backs holes to break into the secondary. The coaches use screens and draws and swing passes to backs out of the backfield to neutralize the pressure. The TE has been nonexistent so far. Quick dumps to the TE into areas vacated by blitzers could be a factor. The O must score TDs inside the 10.
SPECIAL TEAMS – Punt and KO coverage smother the WJC return game and contain Cook. Punts and KOs are directed away from Cook.
WILLIAM JEWEL WINS IF:
DEFENSE – Their pressure puts Valpo in numerous 3rd and long situations that kill drives. They sack Ben more than 3 times. They hold the Valpo RB committee (Jake, Brandon and Grayson) to a combined 120 yards.
OFFENSE – Cook runs for 120+ yards. They break 2 big gainers for TDs.
SPECIAL TEAMS – Cook's returns put WJC in good field position (KOs past the WJC 35; Punt returns inside the VU half)
CONCLUSION:
Valpo has had two weeks to get their heads on straight and one week to prepare for WJC. Based on the WJC Coaches show, some of their starters may be banged up. The game will come down to whether the VU OL can handle the WJC defensive pressure and the VU front 7 can contain Cook. Jake is healthy and the offense has added some twists to help the rushing attack control the ball better on the ground. This one goes into the 4th quarter with Valpo squeaking out a 24-21 win.
http://www.myteamisbetterthanyourteam.com/default.asp?winner=Valparaiso&loser=Wm+Jewell&year=2014&method=2#.VByrcEvTUkE
(http://www.myteamisbetterthanyourteam.com/default.asp?winner=Valparaiso&loser=Wm+Jewell&year=2014&method=2#.VByrcEvTUkE)
uh oh.
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 19, 2014, 05:18:46 PM
http://www.myteamisbetterthanyourteam.com/default.asp?winner=Valparaiso&loser=Wm+Jewell&year=2014&method=2#.VByrcEvTUkE
(http://www.myteamisbetterthanyourteam.com/default.asp?winner=Valparaiso&loser=Wm+Jewell&year=2014&method=2#.VByrcEvTUkE)
uh oh.
Don't forget to embed!!!!
(http://www.construction-injuries.com/pics/nail_gun_injury.gif)
not an embed situation.
(unlike tonight, of course.)
After Valpo "smokes" Jewell, celebrate the victory with some quality dining
www.jackstackbbq.com/jack-stack-freight-house.aspx (http://www.jackstackbbq.com/jack-stack-freight-house.aspx)
go Saders!
Ridiculous start. Defense did well to get two 3 and outs, only to rough the punter on the first one, and then gets faked on the next punt for a long pass...
Quote from: valpotx on September 20, 2014, 01:08:47 PM
Ridiculous start. Defense did well to get two 3 and outs, only to rough the punter on the first one, and then gets faked on the next punt for a long pass...
I do hope we get the offense on the field this quarter.
It's a good thing we had a bye week so that we didn't lose that week.
Wow, then they get an onside kick
annnnnnnnnnnnnnnd they get a 4th down conversion
HOORAY! Our offense is on the field in the 1st quarter!!!!!
Push 'em back on that line! Just don't grab the wrong part of the uniform.
Good offensive possession to get it to 13-7. I like the no huddle. Hopefully we get another offensive possession...
Offense went right down the field on the ground.
Well prepared on first drive! Kept coming at 'em hard and fast. Now the key is not not let up on the D by getting our D off the field quickly too.
Hope the game settles down and teh BS trick plays stop.
Missing some tackles.
Yay, we stop them on 4th down!
Someone needs to tell the Southern announcer that it isn't 'especialty teams' :)
Need to tighten up pass coverage too many guys wide open. That punt return after a long punt hurt!
What a stupid play by our secondary. The ball was overthrown, and we get a pass interference call...
We've made more mistakes in a little over a qtr than in two previous games.
Got away with just giving up 3
OMG, this announcer is killing me.
Special ed referee?
Quote from: usc4valpo on September 20, 2014, 01:44:25 PM
OMG, this announcer is killing me.
The only strong wind is in the announcer's booth.
Great tackle by Cotton on "sweet hips" Cook in the open field.
Pic :(
If we start having a bunch of turnovers this game is long over.
Maybe someone should pull 77's pants down.
It would be like trying to fold a tent.
Of course, a 4th down TD
Good KO situation. Need a TD going into the LR
Let's get a drive going!
ARGHHHHH!
Poorly excuted fake punt.
Well look at that, a 4th down stop
Considering how bad our special teams played, to be down 15 isn't so bad.
Hope things pick up in the second half, but I'll miss it because of having to go to work. Let's Go Valpo!!
I'll be switching over to another Missouri/Indiana (actually the Indiana at Missouri) game at 4:00 p.m.
Quote from: valpotx on September 20, 2014, 02:21:24 PM
Considering how bad our special teams played, to be down 15 isn't so bad.
Spot on. Roughing kicker. Fake punt pass. Long punt run back.
Still need 2 TDs . WJC wishes they had kicked the FG. WE NEED BIG ADJUSTMENTS in all 3 phases of the game right now.
William Jewell's coach's game plan and special teams has been executed very well with the exception of them not kicking a FG late in Q2. Yet from a talent level this team looks like we could beat them if our execution is better in the second half. WJ's coach's play calling shows a lack of respect for Valpo yet with great execution or a turnover or two on our part; we can be right back in this game.
We need to counter their 7-8 men in the box. And runs up the gut won't do it.
PICK 6!!!
5 point ballgame!
Looks good so far. Their RB isn't dominating us like he did last year
FUMBLE!!!
FUMBLE -- VU ball!
Gotta score gotta score. 3 and goal.
TD and the lead!
and a 2 pt conversion. When was the last time we fought back for a lead????
Stop on 4th down! Great front on D!!!
We're moving!
Great catch for a TD!
I just came in before the rain, turn the game on out of curiosity and the first play I see is an interception for TD soon followed by fumble recovery leading to another TD. Lost the game due to lightning strike and am not much of a football fan but for right amount of money you could probably hire me to watch every game. ;) :thumbsup:
Valpo is showing some grit. There is some determination out there. TD on the run (announcers blew it.
Announcers misled me, so it was a TD run on 4th instead
Can't keep missing easy tackles!
Another fumble recovery, looking very good this half on D!
Nice footwork by Hall for another Valpo TD!
A Tale of 2 halves. I pleaded for adjustments. Someone must have heard me ::)
WJC switched QBs and went away from the guy who did so well in the 1st half. Our D is coming on
Here's a telling stat for the D: 40 rushes for 63 yds. Great job!
Bbq
Proud of our D! Bastin has 97 yards rushing, 1 TD and 22 yards receiving.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
96 yards.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Other than this late garbage time TD, the D had a stellar second half
Congrats to our guys on the 39-30 win, and our first non-conference win in 4-5 years??
Only the second win I have seen in 5 seasons. I am happy --- for the next few days. Then it's time worry about Campbell. That will be much togher and we can't count on the turn-over gifts a second time.
Lots of lessons to be learned in this game -- hope they all sink in.
Last one was at Concordia Wisconsin in 08...Adams' last season, if I recall.
[tweet]513434485317468160[/tweet]
Quote from: Dave_2010 on September 20, 2014, 04:08:39 PM
Last one was at Concordia Wisconsin in 08...Adams' last season, if I recall.
2008
AND 2009
So far Coach Cecchini is an entire season and 18 games ahead of the pace set by the previous coach for his first win.
I got home about 30 seconds before the game ended. Tuned into their broadcast to hear that we won the game. Then they did the post game and looked at the stats. How the heck did we win?? They had more total offense, apparently threw the ball whenever they wanted and we had 80 some yards of penalties!!
I will certainly take any win and be grateful. Still Coach must not be pleased.
Hey! Hey!
Valpo totally dominated 2nd half both sides of the ball. Great win!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Nice, important road win to stir up their confidence. The one announcer on the video was absolutely brutal. Nice job Saders and Coach C.
RTFB
(http://image2.stadiumjourney.com/images/stadiums/1303_The_Victory_Bell.jpg)
;D
Where is that? It looks like a Porter County forest preserve
72, we totally dominated the second half. WJC was able to get around 80 yds of offense in garbage time with a few minutes to go, before their last TD. It was pretty close throughout, even when WJC was up 22-7. They had many 4th down conversions, and we gave them several new possessions with penalties in the first half, as well as the fake punt pass/onside kick that were successful in the 1st quarter for the Cardinals.
Quote from: valpotx on September 20, 2014, 11:12:23 PM
72, we totally dominated the second half. WJC was able to get around 80 yds of offense in garbage time with a few minutes to go, before their last TD. It was pretty close throughout, even when WJC was up 22-7. They had many 4th down conversions, and we gave them several new possessions with penalties in the first half, as well as the fake punt pass/onside kick that were successful in the 1st quarter for the Cardinals.
OK, thanks. I wonder what the coach might have said at half time! :-X
It truly was two different games in each half. We made more mistakes and committed more penalties in the first half than in two previous complete games. Our offense didn't even get on the field until Jewel had 2 TDs on the board thanks to a well executed on-sides kick after Jewel's first score which we handed to them with a roughing the kicker penalty on 4 and 5 after a 3 and out, and a 34 yard fake punt pass on another 4th down. Yet at the half we were down "only" 22-7. The only good thing that happened in the first half was a methodical first drive that just moved the chains right down the field for a score. WJC then loaded the box for the rest of the half and dared us to pass.
The second half was just the opposite -- we got some breaks, but the D stiffened and we adjusted to the Jewell D sets. And 32 unanswered points later we ride home winners.
In my Friday prediction I pointed to some key conditions that would help us be winners:
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 19, 2014, 10:58:24 AM
VALPO WINS IF:
DEFENSE – The front 7 contains Cook and holds him under 100 yards for the game. {Cook netted 79 yards and the Jewel Team as whole ran for a net of 59} only WJC is forced into more passing by their 3 rotating QBs and the secondary produces at least 1 pic. {Jewel passed 46 times for 351 yards but only 1 TD} No big dispiriting big gainers are allowed. {NONE}
OFFENSE -- The OL responds to the WJC pressure defense and gives Ben time to throw and our backs holes to break into the secondary. {Ben sacked only once; Running back committee piled up 190 yards} The coaches use screens and draws and swing passes to backs out of the backfield to neutralize the pressure. The TE has been nonexistent so far. Quick dumps to the TE into areas vacated by blitzers could be a factor. {While not a TE per se, 6'4 Kent Warren emerged as a factor} The O must score TDs inside the 10. {4}
SPECIAL TEAMS – Punt and KO coverage smother the WJC return game and contain Cook. Punts and KOs are directed away from Cook. {Cook returned 2 punts for a total of 44 yards, longest 38 yards; he had 2 KO returns for 24 yards; longest 12 yards}
WILLIAM JEWEL WINS IF:
DEFENSE – Their pressure puts Valpo in numerous 3rd and long situations that kill drives. They sack Ben more than 3 times. {Only 1 sack} They hold the Valpo RB committee (Jake, Brandon and Grayson) to a combined 120 yards. {we ran for 190}
OFFENSE – Cook runs for 120+ yards. {net 79} They break 2 big gainers for TDs. {None}
SPECIAL TEAMS – Cook's returns put WJC in good field position (KOs past the WJC 35; Punt returns inside the VU half) {Only one WJC special teams big gainers - Fake punt pass for 34 and one punt return for 38, but none for TDs}
CONCLUSION:
Valpo has had two weeks to get their heads on straight and one week to prepare for WJC. Based on the WJC Coaches show, some of their starters may be banged up. The game will come down to whether the VU OL can handle the WJC defensive pressure and the VU front 7 can contain Cook. {CHECK!} Jake is healthy and the offense has added some twists to help the rushing attack control the ball better on the ground. {CHECK!}This one goes into the 4th quarter with Valpo squeaking out a 24-21 win. {NOT EVEN CLOSE ;D }
Interesting observation: In three complete games Ben has been sacked only twice and has thrown only 1 Interception. In 2013 we threw 11 INTs and were sacked 30 times. That said, we could have some horrible games by the time the season ends and equal 2013, but at least from the 3 games so far, the trend is away from previous seasons.
62-While your point about the big improvement in the O-line is spot on and a clear factor in the WJC win, we've had 2 INTs to go along with 2 TD passes. The coach is living into his promise to make big progress in the running game. The passing game remains very weak. Stats for passing yards gained, yards per throw, and third down conversions prove this point. Hoping that the coaching staff pulls out something new soon. Although, if the D continues to get the ball back in good field position, we might be able to live off the run/short pass scheme.
Paul Oren on John Guilford: 13 tackles 3 TFL and 1 sack -- Hope he gets PFL Defensive Player of the Week.
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/513469244173205504
Quote from: VUDad on September 21, 2014, 09:32:33 AM
62-While your point about the big improvement in the O-line is spot on and a clear factor in the WJC win, we've had 2 INTs to go along with 2 TD passes. The coach is living into his promise to make big progress in the running game. The passing game remains very weak. Stats for passing yards gained, yards per throw, and third down conversions prove this point. Hoping that the coaching staff pulls out something new soon. Although, if the D continues to get the ball back in good field position, we might be able to live off the run/short pass scheme.
If our run game get's shut down AND we are behind, it will be tough. I think the staff is seeking a run/pass balance. It's not there yet, and the run part is ahead. But then, at least the passing game isn't giving away lots of gift wrapped turnovers while it is looking for those answers you mention. In three games so far, what has impressed me in general is the fact that this team is much more disciplined than past teams. While we made a ton of mistakes in the first half of the game, the kids calmed down, played better ball in the second half and stopped making bonehead plays. Even in our first two losses, few bonehead plays and catastrophic errors. I, personally, haven't seen a Valpo team play like this in 5 years. There has been a visible change in the approach already. We need to keep getting a little better each week (not always the case in the past). There are a couple more wins out there this season,
IF we do.
Good point again about discipline. A few of yesterday's penalties were questionable, so it's safe to say this teams discipline is for real. The improvement in tackling was big--let's hope the coaches chase the passing game next. If/when that uptick occurs, surprises will happen.
After switching to the IU/Missouri game (another state of Indiana win over a MO team) I was pretty shocked to see the score. Nice win!
The feeling I got is that Valpo had made a few mistakes and hadn't figured out how to stop WJC yet but they had improved the running game a ton and had something to work with. I really never thought they would turn it around so fast.
Congrats Coach Cecchini and Valpo football. And also AD LaBarbera!
Laporte, what does the "F" in RTFB stand for? Ring the Football Bell? Ring the Fancy Bell? Ring the First Victory Bell?
I just
(http://www.wonderbread.com/img/wondershot.png)
football bell obviously
i just don't know where your head's at man
62 - I predicted the Saders by 1-0, but I am not sure if I am closest to the hole.
wow, a win over a team not named Campbell. The Osteen experience is slowly starting to fade away.
Quote from: usc4valpo on September 21, 2014, 05:08:41 PM
62 - I predicted the Saders by 1-0, but I am not sure if I am closest to the hole.
wow, a win over a team not named Campbell. The Osteen experience is slowly starting to fade away.
Close but not completely gone
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OYMM4fjdr7s/Tjx7d747XkI/AAAAAAAAGVY/KuDTszccVa0/s1600/claude+osteen.jpg)
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 20, 2014, 06:19:26 PM
RTFB
(http://image2.stadiumjourney.com/images/stadiums/1303_The_Victory_Bell.jpg)
They did in the dark of night when they got back to campus.
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=728074623906950&set=vb.173516582696093&type=2&theater (https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=728074623906950&set=vb.173516582696093&type=2&theater)
Claude Osteen, an excellent pitcher for the Sox in the early 70's and for the Blue Crew after that. At least Claude did not live in an $11M mansion and he will not lead you to the wrong path.
thanks for the photo, it was genius
Quote from: usc4valpo on September 20, 2014, 07:09:19 PMWhere is that? It looks like a Porter County forest preserve
The Victory Bell looking west... don't get used to that View.... the property is staked out for the new Sorority Residence Hall... it's where the old University Park Apartments were.