The Valparaiso Beacons Fan Zone Forum

I figured it was time to go fresh with a new string about the actual season that kicks off with UND on the 29th.  Here's the first post:

Captains Announced 
Interesting that two of the three are sophomores.  Pretty tough majors too.

#22 - Alex Grask
POS.  DB   
HT. 6-1   WT.195   YR. Sr.   
HOMETOWN Naperville, Ill.   HIGH SCHOOL (PREV. SCHOOL) Central
Major is international business

#49 - Jake Hutson
POS. RB   
HT. 5-7   WT. 170   YR. Jr./So.   
HOMETOWN Blanchard, Mich.      HIGH SCHOOL (PREV. SCHOOL)  Montabella
Major is mechanical engineering

#46 - Alex Green
POS. LB   
HT. 6-3   WT. 220   YR. So.   
HOMETOWN Zionsville, Ind.   HIGH SCHOOL (PREV. SCHOOL) Zionsville Community
Major is mechanical engineering

Here is the preseason UND video.

http://www.undsports.com/SportSelect.dbml?&DB_OEM_ID=13500&SPID=6399&SPSID=58640 (http://www.undsports.com/SportSelect.dbml?&DB_OEM_ID=13500&SPID=6399&SPSID=58640)

55-20, in favor of the formerly known Sioux

That's not as bad as I had feared!

Valpo Crusaders  13
North Dakota (by order of the state legislature no nickname until 2015)  68

I lean toward USC.

Quote from: humbleopinion on August 25, 2013, 06:00:27 AMThat's not as bad as I had feared!

yeah, at first I thought it was the report of the score too, instead of a guess.  confusing.

UND and Valpo have game one and will experiment some.  UND is not as good as Youngstown St., and Valpo is getting better (seriously, could they have been any worse)?

I have a good feeling about this (no, I'm not trying to take Ben Crenshaw's line)  UND 38 Valpo 13

As long as we're throwing numbers out, I'll say 62-7

North Dakota 66
Valpo 10

I'd settle for the 45-0 result we got in the very first game of the Carlson era at Western Illinois.  That year WIU went on to an 8-5 record, lost to Purdue by only 32-21, and went to the NCAA playoff where they lost in the second round.  But I actually see our kids putting a couple of points on the board against UND this year.  UND gave up 380 points (34.5 ppg) last season.  So 13-45.

Fortunately for the Valpo alums in this area,ESPN is televising the game between the USC Gamecocks and the UNC Tarheels on Thursday night. That,in addition to being a good game,will take our minds off the UND-Valpo game. However I am sure we will see scores that are on the trailors that flash across the screen.We hope we won't be too embarrassed as I am sure Valpo will lose by 40+ points. On the positive side the USC-UNC game starts at 6pm,whereas UND-VU starts at appx. 8:00 pm. So, we won't see the final score of the debacle. GO COCKS! :thumbsup:

I think we come out a little better this year.

UND  -  42
Valpo -  19

For the season I'm going with 5-6.  The schedule is favorable this season and the team needs to take advantage of that fact.

Don't know about the other kids, but a bout 30 of them stayed all summer to work out.  This article about Jake Hutson say he can bench press 475#!!  Holy Crap, a 5'7" guy coming at you like a missle, who can bench that kinda weight??  Let's hope they can turn it around.  Sure sounds like the kids have bought into the effort necessary.

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/22143499-556/valparaiso-season-preview-jake-hutson-wants-to-add-wins-to-personal-success.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/22143499-556/valparaiso-season-preview-jake-hutson-wants-to-add-wins-to-personal-success.html)

Good article but that's gotta be a misprint.  No one benches more than they squat, and he squats "only" 415#.

Go Crusaders!

That has to be 275# for his bench press...

Hey!  If its in the paper (on on the internet) it has to be true, right??   ???  ;)

The NYT article on Sunday (08-25) states that USC ALL-American defensive end Jadevem Clowney benches 345 lbs. So don't tell me that some Valpo dufuss presses more than that. NO WAY! :crazy:

Quote from: setshot on August 26, 2013, 12:27:47 PMFortunately for the Valpo alums in this area,ESPN is televising the game between the USC Gamecocks and the UNC Tarheels on Thursday night. That,in addition to being a good game,will take our minds off the UND-Valpo game. However I am sure we will see scores that are on the trailors that flash across the screen.We hope we won't be too embarrassed as I am sure Valpo will lose by 40+ points. On the positive side the USC-UNC game starts at 6pm,whereas UND-VU starts at appx. 8:00 pm. So, we won't see the final score of the debacle. GO COCKS! :thumbsup:

Always remember, there is only REAL USC, and they are the students studying in South Central LA.  Fight on!!!!!

Quote from: setshot on August 26, 2013, 06:34:51 PMThe NYT article on Sunday (08-25) states that USC ALL-American defensive end Jadevem Clowney benches 345 lbs. So don't tell me that some Valpo dufuss presses more than that. NO WAY! :crazy:

Clowney plays for South Carolina, not USC.

Here's Valpo FB on YouTube.  Tidbit:  UND graduated their Front Four (one that gave up 380 points in 2012).  Both UND QBs will be first time starters.

Valpo Football Preview 8|26|13 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMPTycGtHQw#)
Is it my imagination or are the visitor stands more impressive than the home side now?

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 26, 2013, 07:11:46 PM

Quote from: setshot on August 26, 2013, 06:34:51 PMThe NYT article on Sunday (08-25) states that USC ALL-American defensive end Jadevem Clowney benches 345 lbs. So don't tell me that some Valpo dufuss presses more than that. NO WAY! :crazy:

Clowney plays for South Carolina, not USC.

Setshot, I think you set me up.  Excellent work.

USC faces Hawaii on Thurs., with revolving QBs.  Just what we need.

Why is Todd Ickow still in Valpo versus the Big Ten Network or ESPN?  One of the most knowledgeable well spoken sports guys you will ever hear.

I would think that he had his chances; however, one must always consider that perhaps he is where he is because he wants to be where he is...

vu72, is Todd Ickow associated with any sportscaster talent agencies? I believe BTN, ESPN, and other networks that carry college sports are only looking at broadcasters from talent agencies, not your average joe who has the talent to do it, but is independent of talent agencies out there. With his resume and background, he has the talent, but also, isn't this more of a "hobby" for Todd, and not an everyday job for him?

Quote from: valporun on August 27, 2013, 09:30:21 AM
vu72, is Todd Ickow associated with any sportscaster talent agencies? I believe BTN, ESPN, and other networks that carry college sports are only looking at broadcasters from talent agencies, not your average joe who has the talent to do it, but is independent of talent agencies out there. With his resume and background, he has the talent, but also, isn't this more of a "hobby" for Todd, and not an everyday job for him?

Good questions and I have no idea.  I doubt Valpo could pay him enough to be a full time job but when you think about it, it might be.  He travels with both the football and basketball teams and that means leaving on a Friday for a Saturday job or on a Wednesday for a Thursday job and returning on a Friday (I'm thinking of the up coming ND football game).  Perhaps it is like a teacher's position with pay being spread out over the full year even though the work is concentrated in a smaller window. In Todd's case from late August through Mid-March.  I'm guessing he might just supplement his Valpo income with a card game or two?  :crazy:

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 26, 2013, 07:09:55 PM

Quote from: setshot on August 26, 2013, 12:27:47 PMFortunately for the Valpo alums in this area,ESPN is televising the game between the USC Gamecocks and the UNC Tarheels on Thursday night. That,in addition to being a good game,will take our minds off the UND-Valpo game. However I am sure we will see scores that are on the trailors that flash across the screen.We hope we won't be too embarrassed as I am sure Valpo will lose by 40+ points. On the positive side the USC-UNC game starts at 6pm,whereas UND-VU starts at appx. 8:00 pm. So, we won't see the final score of the debacle. GO COCKS! :thumbsup:

Always remember, there is only REAL USC, and they are the students studying in South Central LA.  Fight on!!!!!

I've heard a few other people, especially in South Carolina, that use the USC term - incorrectly in my view as well!

When I first moved to Colorado six years ago I heard a reference to UNC.  I'm thinking UNC Tarheels, but it was University of Northern Colorado.  Whenever I hear UNC on the radio or TV, or see it in print, I still think Chapel Hill first.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Colorado_University (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Colorado_University)

Quote from: valporun on August 27, 2013, 09:30:21 AM
vu72, is Todd Ickow associated with any sportscaster talent agencies? I believe BTN, ESPN, and other networks that carry college sports are only looking at broadcasters from talent agencies, not your average joe who has the talent to do it, but is independent of talent agencies out there. With his resume and background, he has the talent, but also, isn't this more of a "hobby" for Todd, and not an everyday job for him?

Every time I tune in to a VU basketball or football broadcast, I'm pleasantly reminded how lucky we are to have Todd doing our games.  His professionalism, play-by-play ability, and ad-lib commentary are truly unique and his voice and knowledge of both games and the VU teams is pleasant to hear. 

I hope that the BTN or ESPN Midwest gives him a call for a game or two in the next few years.  Does he still have "cooking" duties?

Quote from: covufan on August 27, 2013, 12:10:51 PM

Quote from: valporun on August 27, 2013, 09:30:21 AM
vu72, is Todd Ickow associated with any sportscaster talent agencies? I believe BTN, ESPN, and other networks that carry college sports are only looking at broadcasters from talent agencies, not your average joe who has the talent to do it, but is independent of talent agencies out there. With his resume and background, he has the talent, but also, isn't this more of a "hobby" for Todd, and not an everyday job for him?

Every time I tune in to a VU basketball or football broadcast, I'm pleasantly reminded how lucky we are to have Todd doing our games.  His professionalism, play-by-play ability, and ad-lib commentary are truly unique and his voice and knowledge of both games and the VU teams is pleasant to hear. 

I hope that the BTN or ESPN Midwest gives him a call for a game or two in the next few years.  Does he still have "cooking" duties?

That restaurant was sold several years ago.

Todd Ickow is a full-time poker player, who works for Valparaiso University because of "the love of the University"  ;D
I did check on one other item - Jake Hutson can bench press 300 lbs. The 475 was a clear mis-quote or mis-print.

Quote from: covufan on August 27, 2013, 11:52:59 AM

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 26, 2013, 07:09:55 PM

Quote from: setshot on August 26, 2013, 12:27:47 PMFortunately for the Valpo alums in this area,ESPN is televising the game between the USC Gamecocks and the UNC Tarheels on Thursday night. That,in addition to being a good game,will take our minds off the UND-Valpo game. However I am sure we will see scores that are on the trailors that flash across the screen.We hope we won't be too embarrassed as I am sure Valpo will lose by 40+ points. On the positive side the USC-UNC game starts at 6pm,whereas UND-VU starts at appx. 8:00 pm. So, we won't see the final score of the debacle. GO COCKS! :thumbsup:

Always remember, there is only REAL USC, and they are the students studying in South Central LA.  Fight on!!!!!

I've heard a few other people, especially in South Carolina, that use the USC term - incorrectly in my view as well!

When I first moved to Colorado six years ago I heard a reference to UNC.  I'm thinking UNC Tarheels, but it was University of Northern Colorado.  Whenever I hear UNC on the radio or TV, or see it in print, I still think Chapel Hill first.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Colorado_University (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Colorado_University)

It's the same with UT, which is absolutely not the University of Tennessee.  UT should only be used when referring to the University of Texas, which is almost always at the top levels of the Capital One Cup each year...

Quote from: chef on August 27, 2013, 02:04:39 PM
Todd Ickow is a full-time poker player, who works for Valparaiso University because of "the love of the University"  ;D
I did check on one other item - Jake Hutson can bench press 300 lbs. The 475 was a clear mis-quote or mis-print.

;)
;D

I'm sure Jake was happy with the misquote, probably carrying around a copy of the article to show the ladies!

Quote from: covufan on August 27, 2013, 05:04:37 PM

Quote from: chef on August 27, 2013, 02:04:39 PMTodd Ickow is a full-time poker player, who works for Valparaiso University because of "the love of the University"
;D I did check on one other item - Jake Hutson can bench press 300 lbs. The 475 was a clear mis-quote or mis-print.

;)
;D
I'm sure Jake was happy with the misquote, probably carrying around a copy of the article to show the ladies!

It's certainly something I would not have bet any money on.  ;)

The Game Notes for the UND game have been posted.  A look at the 2-Deep shows some interesting things:

5 freshman made it in the second 22; no starters
OL is pretty big:  (6-5 300, 6-4 275, 6-1 255 6-4 287, 6-5 275)
Lots of familiar names on both sides of the ball -- they played a lot of youngsters last year
DL looks smallish (6-4 205, 6-4 245, 6-1 240)
LBs are good sized (5-11 220, 6-3 235, 6-3 220, 6-1 205)
Only 1 freshman made the 2-Deep on defense -- Bama Powell (6-3 308)

Another game we should keep tabs on for perspective -- Dayton @ #24 YSU -- as we got crushed the last two years by YSU.  Interesting to see how Dayton, one of the better PFL teams, does.

Also Butler is at #7 South Dakota State and USD is at #11 Cal Poly.  These two are the #2 and #1 preseason PFL picks.

Quote from: VULB#62 on August 28, 2013, 07:33:52 AM
The Game Notes for the UND game have been posted.  A look at the 2-Deep shows some interesting things:

5 freshman made it in the second 22; no starters
OL is pretty big:  (6-5 300, 6-4 275, 6-1 255 6-4 287, 6-5 275)
Lots of familiar names on both sides of the ball -- they played a lot of youngsters last year
DL looks smallish (6-4 205, 6-4 245, 6-1 240)
LBs are good sized (5-11 220, 6-3 235, 6-3 220, 6-1 205)
Only 1 freshman made the 2-Deep on defense -- Bama Powell (6-3 308)

It is hard to believe but we actually got smaller on the starting DL. We currently list 3 guys who were DE's last year as our starters. 

Also a surprise is at K/P where Pando who struggled at best last year not only held onto the Kicker job but won the punting duties as well.

Because of a redshirt we have 6 returning starters on the OL.

The return of the entire offensive line should bode very well for guys like Jake Hutson which also should help us throw the ball down the field a little more.  This should be interesting...

What a cool name for a football player, Bama Powell :).

I would have thought that our new FR kicker would win that battle with his HS honors, especially since we were afraid to kick FGs last year with our kickers.

Quote from: valpotx on August 28, 2013, 11:17:58 AMWhat a cool name for a football player, Bama Powell :). I would have thought that our new FR kicker would win that battle with his HS honors, especially since we were afraid to kick FGs last year with our kickers.

I admittedlly am not close to the football program and I am just a casual outside observer, and I don't know anything about any of the kickers in question other than what everybody else knows.  But, how can an incoming All-State kicker not win the job over the placekicker we had last year when we struggled to make extra-points and wouldn't even attempt field goals last year?  I'm just curious.......anyone closer to the football program have insight on this?  Was last year's placekicking difficulties more on the offensive line protection, long-snap execution, and/or the hold as much as the kicker?  I don't get it.

Only thing I can think of...new guy is hurt? Then again maybe they couldn't find him when they were making out the depth chart. I mean they lost the kicker last year, it could happen again.

Quote from: valpotx on August 27, 2013, 02:10:58 PM

Quote from: covufan on August 27, 2013, 11:52:59 AM

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 26, 2013, 07:09:55 PM

Quote from: setshot on August 26, 2013, 12:27:47 PMFortunately for the Valpo alums in this area,ESPN is televising the game between the USC Gamecocks and the UNC Tarheels on Thursday night. That,in addition to being a good game,will take our minds off the UND-Valpo game. However I am sure we will see scores that are on the trailors that flash across the screen.We hope we won't be too embarrassed as I am sure Valpo will lose by 40+ points. On the positive side the USC-UNC game starts at 6pm,whereas UND-VU starts at appx. 8:00 pm. So, we won't see the final score of the debacle. GO COCKS! :thumbsup:

Always remember, there is only REAL USC, and they are the students studying in South Central LA.  Fight on!!!!!

I've heard a few other people, especially in South Carolina, that use the USC term - incorrectly in my view as well!

When I first moved to Colorado six years ago I heard a reference to UNC.  I'm thinking UNC Tarheels, but it was University of Northern Colorado.  Whenever I hear UNC on the radio or TV, or see it in print, I still think Chapel Hill first.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Colorado_University (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Colorado_University)

It's the same with UT, which is absolutely not the University of Tennessee.  UT should only be used when referring to the University of Texas, which is almost always at the top levels of the Capital One Cup each year...

The uninfomed might think VU refers to Vanderbilt University or Villanova or Vincennes.  But there's only one Valpo in college sports!

Quote from: valpotx on August 28, 2013, 11:17:58 AMI would have thought that our new FR kicker would win that battle with his HS honors, especially since we were afraid to kick FGs last year with our kickers.

If he becomes the main kicker, do we start the chant: "Hello, Newman"

Just a reminder for those who get the Fox Central Sports Channel, the Valpo vs North Dakota game is on at 7 p.m. Central time. In the Valparaiso region, Comcast carries the network on Channel 414.

Heard that Pando will punt and kick off, and the new guy will rotate in on PATs. Two PATs were missed in the Brown Gold game, so the coaches are likely (wisely) letting the new kicker work through butterflies before counting on him. The redshirt freshman kicker, Young, looked the most solid at the scrimmage. Hope he gets on the field.

Anyone able to view this game on the Big Sky network?  I am having trouble, and it appears I installed everything that was required, because the demo video functions.

If I just heard right, we got a couple first downs and punted... then they get a 75-yard touchdown pass thrown by a quarterback playing his first collegiate snap

And now they return a punt 64 yards for a touchdown. Two touches, two touchdowns. 14-0 North Dakota early in the first quarter

Never mind, I don't want to watch now lol.  They just returned a punt for a TD too...2 touches for 2 TDs...

I'm having trouble getting the WVUR feed on my iPod, but found a station in Grand Forks, ND covering the game in the Tune-In radio app. Not sounding good for us at all, but even Todd Ickow said this would be ugly when I emailed him earlier today.

21-0 North Dakota _________ over the Valparaiso Crusaders after one quarter

28-0, early 2nd quarter. 50+ yard pass to set up the latest score. This Greg Hardin guy is really good.

Quote from: valpotx on August 29, 2013, 07:07:30 PMAnyone able to view this game on the Big Sky network?  I am having trouble, and it appears I installed everything that was required, because the demo video functions.

No luck on the live video broadcast of the game. Now that I have heard that Valpo still has no defense or special teams I'm pretty sure I don't want to watch it. You have to wonder what goes on during those practices. There's no need for at PAT kicker if you can't score and the defense can't stop their offense at all. 

USC 27 -UNC 10 in the 4th. Q. VU is getting clobbered and I don't mean Vanderbilt U. Pathetic.  :'(

Listening to North Dakota radio via TuneIn. Met Paul Ralston, one of their broadcasters, last year for a basketball game I covered. Great guy, though he was suspended for two games last basketball season for using "choke job" in a post-game interview with the head coach after a tough loss.

Also of note about UND, they won't have a nickname again until 2015. North Dakota used to be the "Fighting Sioux" until the NCAA helped pressure the school to drop the moniker. When the nickname was discontinued, a new state law promoted a "cooling off" period until a new moniker would officially be adopted.

Hopefully the real USC will not falter tonight at the grungy Aloha Stadium...

BTW, perhaps Valpo should play a school from Hawaii.  A road trip there will help recruiting...

35-0, in favor of the former Sioux....

we need a 20-20 second half and I will have picked the score!  That would be great after having a hellacious day.

35-0 North Dakota _________ over the Valparaiso Crusaders at halftime

This first half proves that Carlson has made no progress at all with this Valpo football team. I hope our AD starts looking for a new head coach immediately so he has his ducks in a row at the end of the season. Or will Carlson even complete this season?

Dude, I want to agree with you, but this game is men against boys.  You knew this was coming up.

So it's 42-0 now? Just heard North Dakota returned a kickoff for a touchdown to open the half. Just rejoined the coverage during the Crusaders' possession

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 29, 2013, 08:47:01 PM
Dude, I want to agree with you, but this game is men against boys.  You knew this was coming up.

As was mentioned by several posters on this board the team was improving. I specifically remember a quote that said "how could they be any worse." To me they are losing badly to a team that was fair to poor in a decent football conference and that actually shows regression and not improvement. Valpo is actually worse. 

Valpo on the board!!! Muffed punt gives the Crusaders another chance and Valpo barely clears the bar on a field goal! It's now 42-3 North Dakota early in the 3rd quarter.

UND radio originally announced Pando, but they've backtracked and said it was Young.

Quote from: KL31NY on August 29, 2013, 08:50:22 PM
So it's 42-0 now? Just heard North Dakota returned a kickoff for a touchdown to open the half. Just rejoined the coverage during the Crusaders' possession

They probably watched tape from last season - looks the same play still works.

Quote from: bbtds on August 29, 2013, 08:33:03 PM
This first half proves that Carlson has made no progress at all with this Valpo football team. I hope our AD starts looking for a new head coach immediately so he has his ducks in a row at the end of the season. Or will Carlson even complete this season?

Carlson will complete the season.  As long as this team shows some improvement, he'll most likely be back.

Dissapointed that the WVUR radio stream is not working.  Needed a Todd fix with no success. 

Jake Miller, referred to on UND's latest scoring play as a "ballerina" by UND radio, adds another touchdown. 49-3 North Dakota in the third

Quote from: FWalum on August 29, 2013, 09:03:37 PM
Dissapointed that the WVUR radio stream is not working.  Needed a Todd fix with no success. 

I've heard that the issue is with Valpo IT. Summer changes might have inadvertently rerouted the webcast output, wouldn't be the first time that's happened. #ItsITsFault

TOUCHDOWN VALPO! Lehman to Gladney! 49-10 North Dakota late in the 3rd

Quote from: KL31NY on August 29, 2013, 09:06:54 PM

Quote from: FWalum on August 29, 2013, 09:03:37 PM
Disappointed that the WVUR radio stream is not working.  Needed a Todd fix with no success. 

I've heard that the issue is with Valpo IT. Summer changes might have inadvertently rerouted the webcast output, wouldn't be the first time that's happened. #ItsITsFault

It can't be all that inexpensive to send Todd and crew on these trips, you would think this would be worked out before the actual broadcast, sparing VU the embarrassment of the silent broadcast.

North Dakota scores again. 56-10 UND. I'm calling it a night. Hope I miss some good things. Take care, everyone!

Quote from: valpotx on August 26, 2013, 01:46:55 AM
North Dakota 66
Valpo 10

I'm sure valpotx is rooting for no more scoring in this game.

I couldn't get the video or Todd.  Suppose there is a bright spot or two but hard to imagine.  clearly outclassed.

69-10 is your final.

More of the same old stuff.  No defense, UND only stopped themselves with a missed FG and a fumble. 11 of there 13 drives scored. Terrible special teams play, and the same old offense with throws to the running back. Was hoping for a score like 37-17 not another embarrassing blowout.

Quote from: bbtds on August 29, 2013, 09:50:30 PM

Quote from: valpotx on August 26, 2013, 01:46:55 AM
North Dakota 66
Valpo 10

I'm sure valpotx is rooting for no more scoring in this game.

Man, I was really hoping it wouldn't be as bad as my guess lol.  Hopefully the guys enjoyed playing a team with scholarship players, so that they get a reality check in regards to where we need to be to contend for a playoff spot, and take it out on competition we should be able to compete and win against. 

The issue was not on WVUR's end. The WVUR webcast was working properly in that everything was being sent correctly from the on-air board to the media encoder that packages the stream. The problem was with the audiocast.valpo.edu link that the University assigned. Over the summer the servers were changed and WVUR's website was affected as well as the stream. Both are visible and able to work on campus, but are not visible off campus. I personally tested the webcast late last week on campus and it worked fine. It was never apparent that there would be a difference in the performance between on-campus and off-campus computers. WVUR and University staff worked throughout the day on Thursday to address the concerns and will continue to do so on Friday.

In other PFL action, it looks like our conference mates kept their games against scholarship competition much closer:

Delaware 51
Jacksonville 35

Youngstown State 28
Dayton 10

Other games that I have no idea about the other team's level/division:

Pikeville 13
Morehead State 10

Grand View 21
Drake 16

[size=78%]After watching the game tonight, I'm curious why the coach is stuck on running a wide open spread style offense when the receivers don't catch the ball very well.  The running back seems to be a pretty good player and the O-Line seemed like they were putting a few decent drives together.  With that personnel, it seems like a smash mouth up the middle type game would be a good game plan.[/size]
[/size]
[/size][size=78%]The athletes on ND were clearly superior (that's what you get with a free education).  Hopefully these guys can get a win soon so that they know their hard work this summer wasn't all for naught.[/size]

I guess there is SOME good news from last night. First, we were only penalized twice--a big improvement.  We didn't beat ourselves--we let them pulverize us! 
Second, our punter did a pretty solid job or replacing Greg Wood.  A couple over 50.  Lastly, we seem to have found a guy who can make a field goal, albeit only one, but he also made an extra point so I'll take this as good news.

I really think the coach needs to think hard about whether or not Hoffman is the guy or not.  He has a ton of experience and still only 40 some yards passing?  Perhaps Lehman or another needs to take the reins.

Quote from: vu72 on August 30, 2013, 07:07:30 AMI really think the coach needs to think hard about whether or not Hoffman is the guy or not.  He has a ton of experience and still only 40 some yards passing?  Perhaps Lehman or another needs to take the reins.

This need to play Hoffman and others with the same kind of experience will ultimately lead to Carlson's downfall if he doesn't change it now. The experience these "veteran" players bring is rooted in failure. Why does the coaching staff believe that this experience will somehow turn into winning? After Lehman threw the touchdown pass Hoffman came back into the game. Does that make sense to anyone? Play the players that are successful.

On a positive note, the WVUR webcast appears to be working. I even heard my own voice just a moment ago on a couple promos.

mms://audiocast.valpo.edu/wvursports

Quote from: bbtds on August 29, 2013, 08:33:03 PM
This first half proves that Carlson has made no progress at all with this Valpo football team.

And this surprises you why? Can somebody let me know when there are changes made so I can pay attention again? Insanity...doing the same things over and over again expecting different results. Ugh

I agree that it made no sense to put Hoffman back in after Lehman had a successful drive

Quote from: Pgmado on August 30, 2013, 12:14:16 AM
The issue was not on WVUR's end. The WVUR webcast was working properly in that everything was being sent correctly from the on-air board to the media encoder that packages the stream. The problem was with the audiocast.valpo.edu link that the University assigned. Over the summer the servers were changed and WVUR's website was affected as well as the stream. Both are visible and able to work on campus, but are not visible off campus. I personally tested the webcast late last week on campus and it worked fine. It was never apparent that there would be a difference in the performance between on-campus and off-campus computers. WVUR and University staff worked throughout the day on Thursday to address the concerns and will continue to do so on Friday.

Really?  No one thought to test everything.  Why don't we just assume it will work, because that is what higher educated people do.  It is 2013, right?

I also find it interesting there was no game thread made for this game. Last year there was a thread every week. Have the optimists lost hope as well?

My bad.  I assumed, based on the fact that another thread that covered the off- and pre-season existed and that this would be the initial game thread and that subsequent games would have their own threads.  I've posted a separate St. Joe's thread to get back on track.

On the performance last night:  After 4 years, I am sadly disappointed in the fact that the D STILL cannot stop anybody early in the game.  75 yards on the first play out of the blocks?  Given our past history I would have assumed a cautious first series with safeties deep that is designed to bend but not break.

Quote from: VULB#62 on August 30, 2013, 03:45:36 PM
My bad.  I assumed, based on the fact that another thread that covered the off- and pre-season existed and that this would be the initial game thread and that subsequent games would have their own threads.  I've posted a separate St. Joe's thread to get back on track.

On the performance last night:  After 4 years, I am sadly disappointed in the fact that the D STILL cannot stop anybody early in the game. 75 yards on the first play out of the blocks?  Given our past history I would have assumed a cautious first series with safeties deep that is designed to bend but not break.

Followed less than 2 minutes later with a 64 yard punt return, followed on the opening kickoff for the second half with a 90 yard return for another TD.  Special teams need some work but I think much help will come from playing against slower, smaller opponents.

Two comments:
1.  This is the first time I have ever heard of a college team being down 14-0 before making a tackle.
2.  Since Dakota is also the name of a Native American clan that is part of the Sioux nation, shouldn't they just go by "North" instead of "North Dakota"?

Quote from: vu84v2 on August 31, 2013, 10:10:31 AM2.  Since Dakota is also the name of a Native American clan that is part of the Sioux nation, shouldn't they just go by "North" instead of "North Dakota"?

+100

Quote from: vu72 on August 30, 2013, 07:07:30 AMI guess there is SOME good news from last night. First, we were only penalized twice--a big improvement. We didn't beat ourselves--we let them pulverize us! Second, our punter did a pretty solid job or replacing Greg Wood. A couple over 50. Lastly, we seem to have found a guy who can make a field goal, albeit only one, but he also made an extra point so I'll take this as good news. I really think the coach needs to think hard about whether or not Hoffman is the guy or not. He has a ton of experience and still only 40 some yards passing? Perhaps Lehman or another needs to take the reins.

If your punter is a highlight of your team's play, that is a very bad indication of how the game went.
I have to wonder if Hoffman needs to hit the bench.  He has experience, bit it isi 2-21 record experience.  On the other hand, a game like where you are overmatched is no real indication.

Let me ask this - if Valpo loses to St. Joe and William Jewell, is it time to really evaluate the coaching situation?

Note that Dayton stayed close to YSU.    That is probably the only real comparison to our game.

This year looks like deja vu all over again.     Kudos to Valpotx for his guess.   

I think I have said ad nausem that they need a clear Chicago-based recruiting strategy that uses "clusters" of kids from good high schools.   
Two reasons:  You can "bring" good athletes who want to play with their mediocre athlete friends who are better students.  None are D-2 just a notch below but want to play together.   Try to tap into the HSs that have academic strength and start a pipeline.   This random "spanning the globe" strategy that pulls in the same marginal athletic ability you can find in the burbs is pretty pointless.

You need a younger coach with charisma who doesn't look like your high school chemistry teacher.

Agree with your comments.  Gather smart Chiciagoland talent and got a local flavor. Also, the Cubs optimism and Joel Osteen quotes will only get you so far.

Moe, your idea makes sense. In looking back at last year's and this year's class, a few players come to Valpo with legitimately strong talent--all-area or all-state honors. Theses players have the talent needed to make a difference at the level Valpo plays. What happens? These players definitely know how to win.  What happens?

It's pretty clear that the PFL is not yet at an FCS level.  Our best (Butler, USD and Jacksonville) go down convincingly to FCS iron. Marist loses to an NEC team.  MSU loses to a middle of the road NAIA team. Campbell also loses big.  Drake and Dayton looked competitive in ther loses, but Drake's is to a n NAIA school. Only Mercer wins, but it's against another NAIA school with only 1200 students.  And, of course, we know the Valpo score.  From the PFL Site: 

SOUTH DAKOTA STATE def. BUTLER, 55-14
BROOKINGS, S.D. — Host #6 South Dakota State jumped in front less than 40 seconds into the contest and the nationally-ranked Jackrabbits went on to post a 55-14 victory over Butler on Saturday (Aug. 31) night. The non-conference game at Coughlin-Alumni Stadium was the season-opener for both teams.

CAL POLY def. SAN DIEGO, 38-16
SLUIS OBISPO, Calif. – The University of San Diego football team dropped its season-opener to No. 11 Cal Poly, 38-16, Saturday AN evening in a non-conference game at Alex G. Spanos Stadium.

SACRED HEART def. MARIST, 37-21
POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – Senior quarterback Chuckie Looney set Marist's career record for touchdown passes, but the Red Foxes suffered a 37-21 loss to Sacred Heart in their season opener at Tenney Stadium on Saturday night.

CHARLOTTE def. CAMPBELL, 52-7
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Beginning its inaugural (FBS) season, Charlotte posted a 52-7 win against Campbell, Saturday, at Richardson Stadium. Charlotte begins 2013 1-0 with the win, while Campbell falls to 0-1. The game was the first for both head coaches, CU's Mike Minter and the 49ers' Brad Lambert.

PIKEVILLE def. MOREHEAD STATE, 13-10
MOREHEAD, Ky. – Turnovers proved costly as Morehead State suffered a 13-10 loss to Pikeville, Thursday, at Jayne Stadium. The Eagles outgained the Bears by a 378-326 margin in total yardage and ran 16 more plays. However, Morehead State suffered three turnovers, including a pair of interception, while forcing none.

DELAWARE def. JACKSONVILLE, 51-35
NEWARK, Del. – Jacksonville scored the game's first two touchdowns but could not hold off nationally-ranked Delaware, falling 51-35, Thursday at Delaware Stadium.

GRAND VIEW def. DRAKE, 21-16
DES MOINES, Iowa – Drake's offense was stymied in the fourth quarter of a 21-16 loss to Grand View [NAIA], Thursday, at Drake Stadium. After closing to withing five points after three quarters, Drake would only cross midfield once on three fourth quarter possession and that drive was snuffed out at the Grand View 49 on an interception.

YOUNGSTOWN STATE def. DAYTON, 28-10
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown State scored the game's first 14 points en route to a 28-10 victory against Dayton, Thursday, at Stambaugh Stadium. The Flyers were outgained by 440-270 in total yardage, thanks largely to the effort of Penguins running back Adaris Bellamy who ran for 203 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries.

MERCER def. REINHARDT, 40-37
MACON, Ga. – Mercer freshman running back Payton Usher ran for 115 yards and senior kicker Josh Shutter nailed a 31-yard field goal with three seconds left to lift the Bears to a thrilling 40-37 victory over Reinhardt University Saturday night at Mercer University Stadium. A sold-out crowd of 12,172 were on hand for the Bears' highly anticipated return to the gridiron and they got their money's worth as the Bears and Eagles battled through eight lead changes late into the night. In the end, two Shutter field goals in the final 3:17 of play were the difference as the Bears rallied from down 34-37 in the fourth quarter.

The QB needs o release the ball faster. There was some success running so that is a plus. At some point, man to man will have to be played. Cover 2 or Cover 3 with no pass rush will be get you beat on a weekly basis.

The defense was on its heals because of the offense. Longer sustained drives with key catches on third down will hello.

12,172 in attendance for the Mercer game is an impressive number.  It would be impressive for a FCS team at any level.

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 31, 2013, 02:37:48 PMLet me ask this - if Valpo loses to St. Joe and William Jewell, is it time to really evaluate the coaching situation?

No.  Time, and evaluation, will have already passed.

Quote from: covufan on September 04, 2013, 04:13:44 PM

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 31, 2013, 02:37:48 PMLet me ask this - if Valpo loses to St. Joe and William Jewell, is it time to really evaluate the coaching situation?

No.  Time, and evaluation, will have already passed.

My guess, yes, there will be some real evaluation to consider the path for Coach Carlson, but I don't see Mark LaBarbara making a significant coaching change during the season. I say this because I don't see any of the assistant coaches that could be the interim coach until the season is over. After the final game, I could see a change coming, but not during the season.

Quote from: valporun on September 05, 2013, 11:08:12 AM

Quote from: covufan on September 04, 2013, 04:13:44 PM

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 31, 2013, 02:37:48 PMLet me ask this - if Valpo loses to St. Joe and William Jewell, is it time to really evaluate the coaching situation?

No.  Time, and evaluation, will have already passed.

My guess, yes, there will be some real evaluation to consider the path for Coach Carlson, but I don't see Mark LaBarbara making a significant coaching change during the season. I say this because I don't see any of the assistant coaches that could be the interim coach until the season is over. After the final game, I could see a change coming, but not during the season.

I agree.  Was just saying for myself that the evaluation time will have already passed.  Agree to keep everything intact until season over.

Quote from: covufan on September 05, 2013, 03:27:46 PM

Quote from: valporun on September 05, 2013, 11:08:12 AM

Quote from: covufan on September 04, 2013, 04:13:44 PM

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 31, 2013, 02:37:48 PMLet me ask this - if Valpo loses to St. Joe and William Jewell, is it time to really evaluate the coaching situation?

No. Time, and evaluation, will have already passed.

My guess, yes, there will be some real evaluation to consider the path for Coach Carlson, but I don't see Mark LaBarbara making a significant coaching change during the season. I say this because I don't see any of the assistant coaches that could be the interim coach until the season is over. After the final game, I could see a change coming, but not during the season.

I agree. Was just saying for myself that the evaluation time will have already passed. Agree to keep everything intact until season over.

I agree with that - and rarely in college football do they make changes during the season.  My feeling is that these next 2 weeks will make or break Carlson.

I've met Dale and he's a really good guy.  I admire his knack for organization.  I don't think what they are doing in the off-season and on a daily basis has been seen at Valpo in a long time. I think he has brought a measure of discipline to everything that supports a "system." All of these are good off-the-field things that make a program competiive.  If I was a player, I'd say that "we have a real program going here and I'll buy in."

However, ...... what mystifies me is how, when the ball is kicked off on a Saturday afternoon, kids with good credetials and some measure of experience give up 21 (+ or -) points in the first quarter, fail to get a first down, and crumble before all competition except Campbell.  Something is missing, but I can't put my finger on it.  I want so bad for these kids to experience victory or even competitve losses, but it isn't happening.

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 05, 2013, 09:34:45 PM
Something is missing, but I can't put my finger on it.  I want so bad for these kids to experience victory or even competitve losses, but it isn't happening.

I think the 86-7 game answered a whole lot of questions for me. "You play to win the game!". There is nothing that took place at any point in that game that was "playing to win the game" OR playing to your teams strengths. Watching the coaching staff do that to those players made me angry, and I generally don't get angry about sporting events, they're just sports. However, nothing was done to stop the bleeding, or to be competitive at any point. Those kids who gave their blood, sweat, tears and let's not forget money were hug out to dry. Their coach allowed them to be humiliated, not just on the field, but on ESPN as well. How many of their classmates, friends and family saw that score roll across ESPN? In truth it get's me pretty riled up to this day. This program has done a lot of different things since Coach Carlson took over, but learning how to win and compete wasn't one of them. I often wonder if Coach Carlson is more concerned about the process than the result. At some point it doesn't matter HOW you make the tackle, just as long as the tackle is made.

I really want better for these kids, and nothing would make me happier than a few wins for the team.

Quote from: milanmiracle on September 06, 2013, 12:59:03 AM

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 05, 2013, 09:34:45 PM
Something is missing, but I can't put my finger on it.  I want so bad for these kids to experience victory or even competitve losses, but it isn't happening.

I think the 86-7 game answered a whole lot of questions for me. "You play to win the game!". There is nothing that took place at any point in that game that was "playing to win the game" OR playing to your teams strengths. Watching the coaching staff do that to those players made me angry, and I generally don't get angry about sporting events, they're just sports. However, nothing was done to stop the bleeding, or to be competitive at any point. Those kids who gave their blood, sweat, tears and let's not forget money were hug out to dry. Their coach allowed them to be humiliated, not just on the field, but on ESPN as well. How many of their classmates, friends and family saw that score roll across ESPN? In truth it get's me pretty riled up to this day. This program has done a lot of different things since Coach Carlson took over, but learning how to win and compete wasn't one of them. I often wonder if Coach Carlson is more concerned about the process than the result. At some point it doesn't matter HOW you make the tackle, just as long as the tackle is made.

I really want better for these kids, and nothing would make me happier than a few wins for the team.

That was the Jacksonville game in 2010, Carlson's first season. From looking at the stats, the QBs were 11-30 passing with 1TD and 3INTs. Jacksonville was fast too. It was like having their 100 and 200 meters sprinters scoring on us at free will, and our defense was a bunch of 10,000 meter runners. I felt that was a bad day, as it was a home game, and it might have been a lesson in humility, as their parents were there watching them get trounced. By the time this game was played, our 7th of that season, they should have known how to run the offensive plays in the system. The defense that game was bad, including 7 tackles for loss totaling 27 yards, and 2 sacks for 18 yards. Sure, they had 2 INTs, but looking at the drive chart, they looked like they were getting pushed out of the way by the tackling dummies. Some of the result needed to be put on the players in that game, even if the head coach or coordinators are the easiest to blame here, you have to blame the players for not executing plays and assignments. Sure, it looks like Carlson let these guys hang out to dry on their own, but based on how players were missing assignments and such on the field, what more can you do to fix the problem than let the players on the field solve it for themselves?

Well, for one, keep the clock running and limit their opportunities. That's something a Pop Warner coach would know, I have to think Carlson could figure that out. I remember the game vividly, and VU was just outclassed on every level, that much is true. I also blame the players, because there were effort plays that were missed. Not acceptable. That's fine and it happens, but at some point you have to try to limit the damage. I don't believe that thought even entered his mind.

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 05, 2013, 09:34:45 PMI've met Dale and he's a really good guy. I admire his knack for organization. I don't think what they are doing in the off-season and on a daily basis has been seen at Valpo in a long time. I think he has brought a measure of discipline to everything that supports a "system." All of these are good off-the-field things that make a program competiive. If I was a player, I'd say that "we have a real program going here and I'll buy in." However, ...... what mystifies me is how, when the ball is kicked off on a Saturday afternoon, kids with good credetials and some measure of experience give up 21 (+ or -) points in the first quarter, fail to get a first down, and crumble before all competition except Campbell. Something is missing, but I can't put my finger on it. I want so bad for these kids to experience victory or even competitve losses, but it isn't happening.

62, I saw the word "system" and it caught my eye.  I just finished my systems design management certificate at MIT, so I wonder how I can apply my education to this gap-filled football situation at Valpo:

Setting up a "system" is a good idea, but of course not foolproof.  You need to breakdown and prioritize your football system to goals, stakeholders and concepts.  Layout the architecture of the football system to identify gaps, and see how it traces back to your goals and stakeholder needs, and determine approaches to close these gaps.  This is not easy of course but the approach provides direction. The football system also needs to be robust and subject to changes and enhancements - and perhaps this is where the architecture needs to be evaluated.

Also, regarding 62's first comment, I am sure Carlson is a good guy (but he needs to bag the Osteen quotes and not admit optimism synonmous with being a Cub fan) with good intentions, and likely a good coach.  Coaching at Valpo may be a square peg in a roundhole for him, as it likely has been for many.  This is why a holistic view and an objective, thorough evaluation of the football program - from players to parents to coaching to the administration to the university operations - is required.  Carlson has areas to improve, but there are bigger gaps in this football system besides coaching.

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 01, 2013, 10:02:28 AM
It's pretty clear that the PFL is not yet at an FCS level.  Our best (Butler, USD and Jacksonville) go down convincingly to FCS iron. Marist loses to an NEC team.  MSU loses to a middle of the road NAIA team. Campbell also loses big.  Drake and Dayton looked competitive in ther loses, but Drake's is to a n NAIA school. Only Mercer wins, but it's against another NAIA school with only 1200 students.  And, of course, we know the Valpo score. 

My daughter lives in Bozeman, MT and got her masters there at Montana State.  So I follow Montana State Bobcat football as well as VU.  In a previous post on this string, I stated that the PFL was not on a par with the scholarship FCS schools.  Here's yet another comparison to nail that one down:

Valpo goes into UND of the Big Sky and loses 69-10.  This afternoon in Bozeman in front of 21,000 fans, MSU beat another nationally ranked FCS school, Northern Arizona, 36-7.  But that is not the score that is of interest.  It was the Bobcat's game last week against UND at UND that is:  MSU  63 - UND 20.  UND is a scholarship Big Sky school.

CAN YOU IMAGINE IF VALPO PLAYED MSU?  100+ POINTS ALLOWED IS A GIVEN.

Gentlemen, who are we trying to kid?  The PFL is D-I FCS in name only. It's teams lose regularly to D-II and NAIA schools.  Time to reclassify the league into what it really is:   D-III.V

Quote from: VULB#62 on October 05, 2013, 09:44:22 PM

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 01, 2013, 10:02:28 AM
It's pretty clear that the PFL is not yet at an FCS level.  Our best (Butler, USD and Jacksonville) go down convincingly to FCS iron. Marist loses to an NEC team.  MSU loses to a middle of the road NAIA team. Campbell also loses big.  Drake and Dayton looked competitive in ther loses, but Drake's is to a n NAIA school. Only Mercer wins, but it's against another NAIA school with only 1200 students.  And, of course, we know the Valpo score. 

My daughter lives in Bozeman, MT and got her masters there at Montana State.  So I follow Montana State Bobcat football as well as VU.  In a previous post on this string, I stated that the PFL was not on a par with the scholarship FCS schools.  Here's yet another comparison to nail that one down:

Valpo goes into UND of the Big Sky and loses 69-10.  This afternoon in Bozeman in front of 21,000 fans, MSU beat another nationally ranked FCS school, Northern Arizona, 36-7.  But that is not the score that is of interest.  It was the Bobcat's game last week against UND at UND that is:  MSU  63 - UND 20.  UND is a scholarship Big Sky school.

CAN YOU IMAGINE IF VALPO PLAYED MSU?  100+ POINTS ALLOWED IS A GIVEN.

Gentlemen, who are we trying to kid?  The PFL is D-I FCS in name only. It's teams lose regularly to D-II and NAIA schools.  Time to reclassify the league into what it really is:   D-III.V

The Intramural Football League Pioneer Football League is nothing more than a few member schools deciding they don't want to spend the money to compete on a D1 level for football and hiding that fact by forming a conference. Don't believe me? Why would they allow a one year member, such as Mercer? Think that would happen in the Horizon League? Yea, didn't think so. Adding the PFL champs to the playoffs is unfair to any team that actually tries to compete on the FCS level. I can't wait to see this debacle. It's a really good thing they don't have it set up like the NCAA tournament where the worst team plays the best team. Could you imagine the PFL champs having to play North Dakota State (who might I add beat Kansas State).

I believe you.  i believe you.  And I agree with you.

Quote from: VULB#62 on October 06, 2013, 11:01:26 AM
I believe you.  i believe you.  And I agree with you.

Haha...that was good.  ;D

Quote from: milanmiracle on October 06, 2013, 09:54:17 AM

Quote from: VULB#62 on October 05, 2013, 09:44:22 PM

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 01, 2013, 10:02:28 AM
It's pretty clear that the PFL is not yet at an FCS level.  Our best (Butler, USD and Jacksonville) go down convincingly to FCS iron. Marist loses to an NEC team.  MSU loses to a middle of the road NAIA team. Campbell also loses big.  Drake and Dayton looked competitive in ther loses, but Drake's is to a n NAIA school. Only Mercer wins, but it's against another NAIA school with only 1200 students.  And, of course, we know the Valpo score. 

My daughter lives in Bozeman, MT and got her masters there at Montana State.  So I follow Montana State Bobcat football as well as VU.  In a previous post on this string, I stated that the PFL was not on a par with the scholarship FCS schools.  Here's yet another comparison to nail that one down:

Valpo goes into UND of the Big Sky and loses 69-10.  This afternoon in Bozeman in front of 21,000 fans, MSU beat another nationally ranked FCS school, Northern Arizona, 36-7.  But that is not the score that is of interest.  It was the Bobcat's game last week against UND at UND that is:  MSU  63 - UND 20.  UND is a scholarship Big Sky school.

CAN YOU IMAGINE IF VALPO PLAYED MSU?  100+ POINTS ALLOWED IS A GIVEN.

Gentlemen, who are we trying to kid?  The PFL is D-I FCS in name only. It's teams lose regularly to D-II and NAIA schools.  Time to reclassify the league into what it really is:   D-III.V

The Intramural Football League Pioneer Football League is nothing more than a few member schools deciding they don't want to spend the money to compete on a D1 level for football and hiding that fact by forming a conference. Don't believe me? Why would they allow a one year member, such as Mercer? Think that would happen in the Horizon League? Yea, didn't think so. Adding the PFL champs to the playoffs is unfair to any team that actually tries to compete on the FCS level. I can't wait to see this debacle. It's a really good thing they don't have it set up like the NCAA tournament where the worst team plays the best team. Could you imagine the PFL champs having to play North Dakota State (who might I add beat Kansas State).

And I thought you didn't post speculation. Mercer joined and said nothing about moving to the SC when they joined. No league adds a  team for one year on purpose. Ask the A10 about Butler. Ask the old Big East about TCU. As far as your comment on the PFL, so what. It makes no bones about what it is. When done well it is entertaining. We just do it very poorly.

You do realize to add scholarships means we either add women's sports or drop some men's to keep it even. I am ok where we are. We just need to do it better.

And to those who continue to call for us to play D3 football please stop. D1 basketball means all sports are D1 which is why the PFL was originally formed.

Quote from: IndyValpo on October 06, 2013, 11:36:54 AM
And I thought you didn't post speculation. Mercer joined and said nothing about moving to the SC when they joined. No league adds a  team for one year on purpose. Ask the A10 about Butler. Ask the old Big East about TCU. As far as your comment on the PFL, so what. It makes no bones about what it is. When done well it is entertaining. We just do it very poorly.

Directly from Mercer -

"That includes football, which this fall will resume competition after at 72-year hiatus and play in the Pioneer Football League for 2013 only. Beginning in 2014, Mercer will award athletic scholarships in football to academically qualified student-athletes, as it does in other intercollegiate sports."

Since the Mercer announced joining the SoCon before ever playing a game in the Pioneer Football League...

The PFL wasn't very smart in vetting Mercer, and didn't realize that they would be going to scholarship football 1 year after joining the PFL? Becoming a scholarship football program isn't something you prepare for overnight. Maybe they weren't entirely truthful with their intentions, but that seems unlikely, no?

Quote from: IndyValpo on October 06, 2013, 11:36:54 AM

Gentlemen, who are we trying to kid?  The PFL is D-I FCS in name only. It's teams lose regularly to D-II and NAIA schools.  Time to reclassify the league into what it really is:   D-III.V

And to those who continue to call for us to play D3 football please stop. D1 basketball means all sports are D1 which is why the PFL was originally formed.
[/quote]

Indy, just to be clear, my comment is satirical -- you just missed the III.V  The reclassify was a my way of saying our league, in reality, competes at a level slightly higher than D-III.  Not saying we should go D-III, because as you and everyone on teh forum knows, none of those schools can becuase they have chosen to play D-I in everything else.

Quote from: milanmiracle on October 06, 2013, 09:54:17 AM

Quote from: VULB#62 on October 05, 2013, 09:44:22 PM

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 01, 2013, 10:02:28 AMIt's pretty clear that the PFL is not yet at an FCS level. Our best (Butler, USD and Jacksonville) go down convincingly to FCS iron. Marist loses to an NEC team. MSU loses to a middle of the road NAIA team. Campbell also loses big. Drake and Dayton looked competitive in ther loses, but Drake's is to a n NAIA school. Only Mercer wins, but it's against another NAIA school with only 1200 students. And, of course, we know the Valpo score.

My daughter lives in Bozeman, MT and got her masters there at Montana State. So I follow Montana State Bobcat football as well as VU. In a previous post on this string, I stated that the PFL was not on a par with the scholarship FCS schools. Here's yet another comparison to nail that one down: Valpo goes into UND of the Big Sky and loses 69-10. This afternoon in Bozeman in front of 21,000 fans, MSU beat another nationally ranked FCS school, Northern Arizona, 36-7. But that is not the score that is of interest. It was the Bobcat's game last week against UND at UND that is: MSU 63 - UND 20. UND is a scholarship Big Sky school. CAN YOU IMAGINE IF VALPO PLAYED MSU? 100+ POINTS ALLOWED IS A GIVEN. Gentlemen, who are we trying to kid? The PFL is D-I FCS in name only. It's teams lose regularly to D-II and NAIA schools. Time to reclassify the league into what it really is: D-III.V

The Intramural Football League Pioneer Football League is nothing more than a few member schools deciding they don't want to spend the money to compete on a D1 level for football and hiding that fact by forming a conference. Don't believe me? Why would they allow a one year member, such as Mercer? Think that would happen in the Horizon League? Yea, didn't think so. Adding the PFL champs to the playoffs is unfair to any team that actually tries to compete on the FCS level. I can't wait to see this debacle. It's a really good thing they don't have it set up like the NCAA tournament where the worst team plays the best team. Could you imagine the PFL champs having to play North Dakota State (who might I add beat Kansas State).

Excellent, excellent post.  It provides the UNI's, EWU's and NDSU's  in the FCS playoff a tomato can gimme.  Kind of like college hoops when a 1 seed plays a 16 sed, but this is even more lopsided.

In reality, the Pioneer is Divsion 3 football.  It's too bad the NCAA cannot recognize this, but we are talking about an organization more inept than Congress.

Quote from: milanmiracle on October 06, 2013, 12:05:33 PM

Quote from: IndyValpo on October 06, 2013, 11:36:54 AM
And I thought you didn't post speculation. Mercer joined and said nothing about moving to the SC when they joined. No league adds a  team for one year on purpose. Ask the A10 about Butler. Ask the old Big East about TCU. As far as your comment on the PFL, so what. It makes no bones about what it is. When done well it is entertaining. We just do it very poorly.

Directly from Mercer -

"That includes football, which this fall will resume competition after at 72-year hiatus and play in the Pioneer Football League for 2013 only. Beginning in 2014, Mercer will award athletic scholarships in football to academically qualified student-athletes, as it does in other intercollegiate sports."

Since the Mercer announced joining the SoCon before ever playing a game in the Pioneer Football League...

The PFL wasn't very smart in vetting Mercer, and didn't realize that they would be going to scholarship football 1 year after joining the PFL? Becoming a scholarship football program isn't something you prepare for overnight. Maybe they weren't entirely truthful with their intentions, but that seems unlikely, no?

Mercer joined the PFL in June 2011 beginning in 2013. Two years later they announced the SC bid.  I am sure it was always in their mind but there were a bunch of other realignments that made the move possible.