Football Brutal slate awaits: Big Three in South on KU’s schedule - Page 4

**Lzen** · 08-19-2009, 10:41 AM

http://www2.kusports.com/news/2009/a...dule/?football

Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Brutal slate awaits: Big Three in South on KU’s schedule

By Eric Sorrentino

If the Kansas University football team is to win its first outright Big 12 North title this season, the Jayhawks will have to make history with a brutal conference schedule ahead of them.For the second straight year, KU drew the big three from the Big 12 South: Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech. Two of the three (UT, TTU) are on the road.
By contrast, Nebraska, which is expected to finish atop the North standings with KU, doesn’t face Texas this year. And the Cornhuskers drew Texas Tech and Oklahoma at home.
When comparing schedules, Nebraska is the favorite. Kansas, however, returns the most prolific quarterback in its history in Todd Reesing, along with the best group of receivers in the conference. Couple that with a date against Nebraska on Nov. 14 in Lawrence, and the Big 12 North is officially up for grabs.
Here’s a look at KU’s conference schedule in 2009, along with a few names to remember when preparing for the opposition:
Oct. 10: vs. Iowa State
Player to watch: Junior running back Alexander Robinson. If healthy, Robinson should surpass his 863 all-purpose yards (703 rushing) and six scores from last season. He only caught 17 passes, but new offensive coordinator Tom Herman, who previously held the same position at Rice, is expected to implement his spread attack, which will showcase heavy doses of Robinson in the running and receiving game. He’s really the Cyclones’ lone home run threat on offense.
The Jayhawks’ offense should be able to feast on an ISU unit that ranked No. 116 of 119 Bowl Subdivision teams in pass defense last year.
Oct. 17: at Colorado
Player to watch: Sophomore running back Darrell Scott. The five-star recruit and the No. 1-rated Rivals.com freshman back in the nation was somewhat of a disappointment last year after rushing for just 343 yards and a touchdown. Injuries limited his productivity, but he’s a prime breakout candidate this year with future NFL potential.
Colorado has the deepest corps of backs in the conference with sophomores Scott, Rodney Stewart and Brian Lockridge, to go along with junior Demetrius Sumler. With a quarterback battle between unproven signal callers Cody Hawkins and Tyler Hansen, the Buffaloes should focus a lot on their ground game this season.
Oct. 24: vs. Oklahoma
Player to watch: Junior quarterback Sam Bradford. Naturally, you’re going to attract attention when you’re the reigning Heisman Trophy winner coming off a season with 4,720 passing yards and a nation’s-best 50 touchdown passes. Bradford, predicted by many to be a Top 5 NFL Draft pick this April, decided to return to school with a fire still burning inside him after OU’s BCS Championship loss to Florida. He would have battled Matthew Stafford, who went on to sign a $78 million contract with Detroit, for the No. 1 pick. Bradford should be a finalist again for the Heisman, and the Sooners are a consensus Top 5 team in the country this season.
The atmosphere in Lawrence should be electric for this game, particularly if the Jayhawks enter at 6-0, which is realistic. ESPN College GameDay, are you listening?
Oct. 31: at Texas Tech
Player to watch: Junior quarterback Taylor Potts. The Red Raiders have led the nation in passing six of the last seven years, so it’s a good bet coach Mike Leach will continue to air it out, even without Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree. Potts is next in line in the TTU quarterback factory, and at 6-foot-5, he’s taller than any signal caller of the Leach era (2000-present). He reportedly has a better arm and can heave it downfield with more precision than Harrell.
Texas Tech won’t be a Top 25 team to start the season like last year, but consider the Red Raiders haven’t won fewer than eight games in a season since 2001.
Nov. 7: at Kansas State
Player to watch: Senior wide receiver Brandon Banks. He’s arguably the most underrated player in the conference. Banks caught 67 passes for 1,049 yards and nine TD’s last season, and he’s a threat to take it the distance on kickoff returns, too. Most Lawrence High and Free State High receivers are bigger than Banks, who is listed a mere 5-7, 150 pounds.
One problem: With Josh Freeman gone, who’s going to give Banks his touches, Carson Coffman or Daniel Thomas? Both are unproven.
Nov. 14: vs. Nebraska
Player to watch: Senior defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh. The KU offensive line is most likely going to want to double team Suh, who’s already being projected the No. 2 overall pick in Todd McShay’s 2010 NFL Draft. The 6-4, 300-pounder led an improved Nebraska defense last season in tackles (76) and sacks (7.5).
The Huskers should be a fringe Top 20 team to start the year. This game will be one of the most anticipated KU home games of the season and could decide the Big 12 North champion.
Nov. 21: at Texas
Player to watch: Senior quarterback Colt McCoy. He was the most accurate QB in the land last year, completing 76.67 percent of his passes, a NCAA record. McCoy was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy last year and is a front-runner to win the award this season.
The Longhorns didn’t like being the odd man out in the South’s three-way tie last year, and will likely use that as motivation in their quest to win a BCS Championship. Texas is a consensus Top 5 team in the country this season.
The Jayhawks, as good as they’re supposed to be, will likely still be at least 14-point underdogs at Darrell Royal Memorial Stadium.
Nov. 28: vs. Missouri in Kansas City, Mo.
Player to watch: Junior running back Derrick Washington. He rushed for 1,036 yards and 17 scores last year on a hurt left knee. With the absence of Chase Daniel, Jeremy Maclin and Chase Coffman, Washington quickly becomes the No. 1 option in the MU offense. Pressure rests on the arm of sophomore quarterback Blaine Gabbert, one of the most heralded recruits in Missouri history. But Washington should help him ease into a comfort zone in his first year running the offense.
Missouri, which won the North the last two years, won’t be ranked to start the season and will be somewhat of a long shot to win the Big 12 North again in 2009.

Frazod · 08-20-2009, 02:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lzen

You keep telling yourself that.

If a guy gives money to the program by attending games, defends the program on a forum while talking negatively about the other, and wears said program's clothing, then that makes him a fan in my book.

Nope. He's a beaker. And GonzoRox is 100% yours. And the other guy doesn't give a shit about either team.

Your entire premise is full of FAIL.

Pitt Gorilla · 08-20-2009, 02:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by beer bacon

As a Mizzou fan, I don't see why Nebraska is predicted to finish ahead of the Tigers. I personally think KU should be the favorite. They have problems on defense and some problems on the O-line, but they have a great QB and he has some good targets to throw to. What advantages does Nebraska have over MU? Nebraska probably will have a better D-line because of Suh, but that is about it.

I would pick KU to be the favorite, with MU and NU close behind. Regarding the D lines, MU's should be very good. The second tackle spot is a question (I would have liked Richardson, Phillips, or Foster to compete), but Baston and the 3 headed monster at DE will be outstanding. Aldon Smith is unreal.

**Lzen** · 08-20-2009, 02:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by frazod

Nope. He's a beaker. And GonzoRox is 100% yours. And the other guy doesn't give a shit about either team.

Your entire premise is full of FAIL.

I did not notice PostRock's message under his handle until you said something about GonzoRox.
But as far as CoMo, you're like a kid sticking his fingers in his ears and saying Naaa naaa naaaa.....I can't hear you......naaa naaaa naaaaaa.

Pitt Gorilla · 08-20-2009, 02:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lzen

You keep telling yourself that.

If a guy gives money to the program by attending games, defends the program on a forum while talking negatively about the other, and wears said program's clothing, then that makes him a fan in my book.

Are you referring to the guy that puts down MU basketball whenever he gets the chance and is a professed Beaker basketball fan? That guy is an MU fan?

POND_OF_RED · 08-20-2009, 03:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lzen

You keep telling yourself that.

If a guy gives money to the program by attending games, defends the program on a forum while talking negatively about the other, and wears said program's clothing, then that makes him a fan in my book.

I can tell you that I know CoMo personally and I can guarantee that he owns more KU apparel. He bashes MU every time he gets the chance. He is definitely a KU fan. He just has no rooting interest in either football team but since he lives in Columbia he's obviously been to more games at Faurot field.

Frazod · 08-20-2009, 03:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by POND_OF_RED

I can tell you that I know CoMo personally and I can guarantee that he owns more KU apparel. He bashes MU every time he gets the chance. He is definitely a KU fan. He just has no rooting interest in either football team but since he lives in Columbia he's obviously been to more games at Faurot field.

See? He's all yours, Lzen.

**dirk digler** · 08-20-2009, 03:09 PM

Can I ask the Beaker fans a legit question? Why do all the KU football commercials talk about making history? I don't get that because they are going to lose 3-4 games so what is so historic about that?

**Lzen** · 08-20-2009, 03:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dirk digler

Can I ask the Beaker fans a legit question? Why do all the KU football commercials talk about making history? I don't get that because they are going to lose 3-4 games so what is so historic about that?

It's a bit premature. Its great if they can pull it off. But if they don't, the commercials will look really dumb. The history part they are talking about would be winning North title, I believe.

**dirk digler** · 08-20-2009, 03:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lzen

It's a bit premature. Its great if they can pull it off. But if they don't, the commercials will look really dumb. The history part they are talking about would be winning North title, I believe.

Thanks and I am not trying to start anything I was just curious. But when I think of historic I am thinking going undefeated and have a shot a the NC not winning the Big 12 North.

teedubya · 08-20-2009, 03:28 PM

The KUpcakes this year are MONSTERS!!!

**Lzen** · 08-20-2009, 03:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by POND_OF_RED

I can tell you that I know CoMo personally and I can guarantee that he owns more KU apparel. He bashes MU every time he gets the chance. He is definitely a KU fan. He just has no rooting interest in either football team but since he lives in Columbia he's obviously been to more games at Faurot field.

I guess I just don't understand why, if you are a KU fan (hoops), would you ever attend a game at MU. I would never dream of attending a game at MU unless my Jayhawks were playing there. That's real head scratcher. And the fact that you said he owns more KU apparel rather than only KU apparel says a lot. Why does he go to MU football games and own MU apparel? Sounds like a fan to me.

**Lzen** · 08-20-2009, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dirk digler

Thanks and I am not trying to start anything I was just curious. But when I think of historic I am thinking going undefeated and have a shot a the NC not winning the Big 12 North.

Yes, I understood that you weren't being a jackhole. I think the campaign is kind of dumb. But if they pull it off, who cares?

**dirk digler** · 08-20-2009, 03:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lzen

Yes, I understood that you weren't being a jackhole. I think the campaign is kind of dumb. But if they pull it off, who cares?

If they do congrats to KU but if they don't they look silly.

Frazod · 08-20-2009, 03:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lzen

I guess I just don't understand why, if you are a KU fan (hoops), would you ever attend a game at MU. I would never dream of attending a game at MU unless my Jayhawks were playing there. That's real head scratcher. And the fact that you said he owns more KU apparel rather than only KU apparel says a lot. Why does he go to MU football games and own MU apparel? Sounds like a fan to me.

Nothing wrong with going to a game just to go. I've been to Wrigley several times when the Cardinals weren't playing, for example.

I always root against the Cubs, though.

sedated · 08-20-2009, 03:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dirk digler

Can I ask the Beaker fans a legit question? Why do all the KU football commercials talk about making history? I don't get that because they are going to lose 3-4 games so what is so historic about that?

(if they win the North) they would be in the Big 12 Championship for the first time. That's what I assumed they meant.

08-19-2009, 10:41 AM
Lzen Supporter Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Jan Quadrant Vincent 16 Casino cash: $2170692	Brutal slate awaits: Big Three in South on KU’s schedule http://www2.kusports.com/news/2009/a...dule/?football Tuesday, August 18, 2009 Brutal slate awaits: Big Three in South on KU’s schedule By Eric Sorrentino If the Kansas University football team is to win its first outright Big 12 North title this season, the Jayhawks will have to make history with a brutal conference schedule ahead of them.For the second straight year, KU drew the big three from the Big 12 South: Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech. Two of the three (UT, TTU) are on the road. By contrast, Nebraska, which is expected to finish atop the North standings with KU, doesn’t face Texas this year. And the Cornhuskers drew Texas Tech and Oklahoma at home. When comparing schedules, Nebraska is the favorite. Kansas, however, returns the most prolific quarterback in its history in Todd Reesing, along with the best group of receivers in the conference. Couple that with a date against Nebraska on Nov. 14 in Lawrence, and the Big 12 North is officially up for grabs. Here’s a look at KU’s conference schedule in 2009, along with a few names to remember when preparing for the opposition: Oct. 10: vs. Iowa State Player to watch: Junior running back Alexander Robinson. If healthy, Robinson should surpass his 863 all-purpose yards (703 rushing) and six scores from last season. He only caught 17 passes, but new offensive coordinator Tom Herman, who previously held the same position at Rice, is expected to implement his spread attack, which will showcase heavy doses of Robinson in the running and receiving game. He’s really the Cyclones’ lone home run threat on offense. The Jayhawks’ offense should be able to feast on an ISU unit that ranked No. 116 of 119 Bowl Subdivision teams in pass defense last year. Oct. 17: at Colorado Player to watch: Sophomore running back Darrell Scott. The five-star recruit and the No. 1-rated Rivals.com freshman back in the nation was somewhat of a disappointment last year after rushing for just 343 yards and a touchdown. Injuries limited his productivity, but he’s a prime breakout candidate this year with future NFL potential. Colorado has the deepest corps of backs in the conference with sophomores Scott, Rodney Stewart and Brian Lockridge, to go along with junior Demetrius Sumler. With a quarterback battle between unproven signal callers Cody Hawkins and Tyler Hansen, the Buffaloes should focus a lot on their ground game this season. Oct. 24: vs. Oklahoma Player to watch: Junior quarterback Sam Bradford. Naturally, you’re going to attract attention when you’re the reigning Heisman Trophy winner coming off a season with 4,720 passing yards and a nation’s-best 50 touchdown passes. Bradford, predicted by many to be a Top 5 NFL Draft pick this April, decided to return to school with a fire still burning inside him after OU’s BCS Championship loss to Florida. He would have battled Matthew Stafford, who went on to sign a $78 million contract with Detroit, for the No. 1 pick. Bradford should be a finalist again for the Heisman, and the Sooners are a consensus Top 5 team in the country this season. The atmosphere in Lawrence should be electric for this game, particularly if the Jayhawks enter at 6-0, which is realistic. ESPN College GameDay, are you listening? Oct. 31: at Texas Tech Player to watch: Junior quarterback Taylor Potts. The Red Raiders have led the nation in passing six of the last seven years, so it’s a good bet coach Mike Leach will continue to air it out, even without Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree. Potts is next in line in the TTU quarterback factory, and at 6-foot-5, he’s taller than any signal caller of the Leach era (2000-present). He reportedly has a better arm and can heave it downfield with more precision than Harrell. Texas Tech won’t be a Top 25 team to start the season like last year, but consider the Red Raiders haven’t won fewer than eight games in a season since 2001. Nov. 7: at Kansas State Player to watch: Senior wide receiver Brandon Banks. He’s arguably the most underrated player in the conference. Banks caught 67 passes for 1,049 yards and nine TD’s last season, and he’s a threat to take it the distance on kickoff returns, too. Most Lawrence High and Free State High receivers are bigger than Banks, who is listed a mere 5-7, 150 pounds. One problem: With Josh Freeman gone, who’s going to give Banks his touches, Carson Coffman or Daniel Thomas? Both are unproven. Nov. 14: vs. Nebraska Player to watch: Senior defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh. The KU offensive line is most likely going to want to double team Suh, who’s already being projected the No. 2 overall pick in Todd McShay’s 2010 NFL Draft. The 6-4, 300-pounder led an improved Nebraska defense last season in tackles (76) and sacks (7.5). The Huskers should be a fringe Top 20 team to start the year. This game will be one of the most anticipated KU home games of the season and could decide the Big 12 North champion. Nov. 21: at Texas Player to watch: Senior quarterback Colt McCoy. He was the most accurate QB in the land last year, completing 76.67 percent of his passes, a NCAA record. McCoy was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy last year and is a front-runner to win the award this season. The Longhorns didn’t like being the odd man out in the South’s three-way tie last year, and will likely use that as motivation in their quest to win a BCS Championship. Texas is a consensus Top 5 team in the country this season. The Jayhawks, as good as they’re supposed to be, will likely still be at least 14-point underdogs at Darrell Royal Memorial Stadium. Nov. 28: vs. Missouri in Kansas City, Mo. Player to watch: Junior running back Derrick Washington. He rushed for 1,036 yards and 17 scores last year on a hurt left knee. With the absence of Chase Daniel, Jeremy Maclin and Chase Coffman, Washington quickly becomes the No. 1 option in the MU offense. Pressure rests on the arm of sophomore quarterback Blaine Gabbert, one of the most heralded recruits in Missouri history. But Washington should help him ease into a comfort zone in his first year running the offense. Missouri, which won the North the last two years, won’t be ranked to start the season and will be somewhat of a long shot to win the Big 12 North again in 2009.
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08-20-2009, 03:09 PM	#52
dirk digler Please squeeze Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Clinton, MO Casino cash: $3204644	Can I ask the Beaker fans a legit question? Why do all the KU football commercials talk about making history? I don't get that because they are going to lose 3-4 games so what is so historic about that?
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08-20-2009, 03:28 PM	#55
teedubya Most Valuable Poster Join Date: Oct 2003 Casino cash: $9480002	The KUpcakes this year are MONSTERS!!!
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