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Case KeenumORLANDO, Fla. - Good Knight, Case.

Case Keenum's late-game dramatics -- not to mention his Heisman Trophy consideration -- wilted under a brilliant Florida sun and an inspired Central Florida defense Saturday afternoon. Despite throwing two touchdowns in the closing minutes, Keenum and 13th-ranked Houston ran out of time in their 37-32 defeat to a band of merry Knights who clinched the program's first win over a nationally-ranked team.

"Whether it was making mistakes or them playing really hard ... they did a good job of covering down field and putting pressure on me," said Keenum, who had led Houston to consecutive victories over Southern Miss and Tulsa last week on last-minute scoring drives.


"We could never get it going."

The game pitted Houston's strength (No. 1 in the nation in pass offense and scoring) against UCF's biggest weakness (No. 114 in the nation against the pass). Advantage, Knights, who helped a small but boisterous crowd of 34,437 celebrate homecoming in sunny, 75-degree style at Bright House Networks Stadium.

Certainly not forgotten in the equation was that UCF (6-4) entered leading Conference USA in total defense and fewest points allowed despite its struggles against the pass.

And let's also not forget crafty veteran Knights coach George O'Leary, whose team is bowl eligible for the third time in four years and remains in Conference USA contention.

On Friday night, O'Leary showed his team highlight clips of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, explaining how the three-time World Heavyweight champion could throw a punch, take a punch and overcome adversity. The Cougars (8-2), who no longer control their destiny in Conference USA's West Division, ended up on their haunches.


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Keenum, ranked a close second in three of four Heisman straw polls conducted by ESPN, USA Today Scripps Howard and CBSSports.com and fourth in USA Today's version, finished 33 of 56 for 377 yards and three scores.

Keenum, who had more than 500 yards in each of the previous two games, threw for 325 of his 377 yards in the first and fourth quarters.

"Give them credit for knowing their stuff and playing hard against us," Keenum said, pushing back a faded,worn Houston cap.

Actually, that was an oft-repeated theme from the Cougars.

Frustrated players credited the Knights, dressed in new black jerseys, for playing with more effort and emotion.

UCF trailed 10-0 and 17-3 midway in the second quarter before it scored 20 unanswered points and played keep away with the Cougars' normally quick-strike offense. The Knights held a huge advantage in time of possession (39:30 to 20:30, and Houston only ran four plays in the second quarter) and committed just one penalty.

"They were flying around to the ball," said Houston receiver Tyron Carrier, who had nine receptions for 149 yards and two scores.

"They acted like they wanted it, and we couldn't hold them back. They were rushing our quarterback, getting to our screens. They did a good job of preparing for us. We were fired up to play; we kind of started laying down a little bit. A good team sees a team laying down, they are going to come back and pull out the win, and that's what they did."

Carrier sighed, and continued.

"I really don't know what it was," he said. "If a team wanted it more than the other team, the team that wants it the most is going to get it. That's what they did. The game plan was great; it's just on us as a team. We didn't execute. You don't want to give any team at home something to cheer."

The Knights had plenty to cheer.

Knights running back Brynn Harvey rushed for 139 yards -- his fourth career 100-yard game -- and a career-high three rushing touchdowns.

Quarterback Brett Hodges, a transfer from Wake Forest and a Florida native, completed 21 of 25 passes and tossed 12 consecutive completions at one point. He recorded the highest completion percentage in a game for his career (84.0) and out-played the Heisman hopeful in the process.

"That was the plan going in, and it really just came down to execution," Hodges said.

"We controlled the ball because we executed."

And let's not forget about UCF's defense, anchored by a small but athletic line and a young secondary that refused to blink. The unit was torched last week by Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, who threw for 470 yards and two touchdowns in a 35-7 non-conference romp.

When Justin Boddie picked off Keenum in the fourth quarter, it ended his streak of 123 straight passes without an interception.

"They out-played us; flat out-played us," said disgruntled Houston right guard Chris Thompson.

"Mostly, they just gave good effort at what they did. They were pretty good up front -- we knew that coming in. They threw a couple blitzes in, a couple slants -- but that wasn't the problem -- they out-played us out front. Had a real good plan coming into the game.

"When we turn on film Monday ... the team that played harder than the other team ... and it seemed like they played off the crowd and emotion and had things going their way."





Houston also suffered three turnovers in the game, and not even Keenum's late-game dramatics were enough to save the day.

"I thought they did some things physically ... they turned it into a physical game and we didn't respond the way we should have," Houston coach Kevin Sumlin said.

"I didn't see anyone quit or anything like that, that's not it. In a game like that, where there's a contrast of styles, turnovers become important with ball-possession offense. When it's a physical game you have to match that play, I didn't think we matched it consistently all day."

Say Good Knight to Keenum, Houston originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 17:57:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Case KeenumCaseKeenumJim HenrySat, 14 Nov 2009 17:57:00 EST UCF Slows Keenum, Topples Houstonhttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/11/14/ucf-slows-keenum-topples-houston/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/11/14/ucf-slows-keenum-topples-houston/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/11/14/ucf-slows-keenum-topples-houston/#commentsFiled under: ,

ORLANDO, Fla.(AP) -- Central Florida not only found a way to slow down Case Keenum and No. 13 Houston, the Knights didn't give the nation's most prolific passer a chance to pull off another improbable comeback.

Brett Hodges outplayed the Cougars quarterback and Brynn Harvey rushed for 139 yards and three touchdowns Saturday, leading UCF to a 37-32 upset that stopped a five-game winning streak Keenum had kept alive with a pair of last-minute rallies.

Harvey scored on runs of 1, 41 and 7 yards, the last set up by an interception that stopped Keenum's streak of consecutive passing attempts without a pick at 123. Hodges completed 21 of 25 passes for 241 yards and one TD.

Keenum threw for two TDs in the closing minutes, cutting into a 17-point deficit. He finished 33 of 56 for 377 yards and three scores. He had more than 500 yards in each of the previous two games.

UCF entered the game leading the conference in total defense and fewest points allowed despite ranking near the bottom of the league against the pass. The Knights gave up 470 yards passing to Colt McCoy in a 35-3 loss to Texas the previous week, but did a nice job against Keenum after yielding a 51-yard TD throw to Tyron Carrier that gave Houston a 10-0 lead.

After a quick start, Houston (8-2, 4-2) sputtered on offense, and the Cougars added to their woes by not being able to stop Hodges and Harvey after Central Florida (6-4, 4-2) was outgained 179-40 in the first quarter.

Keenum threw a 31-yard TD pass to Carrier to finish a 94-yard that trimmed Houston's deficit to 37-26, then led an 80-yard to score again on a 15-yard TD pass to Chaz Rodriguez. Carrier had nine receptions for 149 yards.

Central Florida had the ball for more than nine minutes of the opening quarter, but couldn't take advantage. Houston produced a field goal and Keenum's first TD pass on its first two possessions, then lost fumbles at the UCF 9 and 20 on its next two drives.

Amazingly, the Cougars clung to a 17-10 lead at the half after Central Florida's offense and special teams, which yielded Devin Mays' 100-yard kickoff return, managed to keep Keenum on the sideline for all but the final 1:18 of the second quarter.

Hodges was 6-of-6 for 45 yards passing on a 15-play, 62-yard drive that ended with Nick Cattoi's 35-yard field goal, then the Knights ran the ball nine times on a 10-play, 62-yard march that freshman Jonathan Davis finished with a 4-yard run for his first career touchdown.

UCF's domination of time of possession continued in the third quarter, with the Knights forcing two three-and-outs to start the period and Harvey scoring touchdowns after each stop to put Central Florida up 23-17.

Hodges, who was 12-of-12 for 135 yards on UCF's first four scoring drives, threw 24 yards to Quincy McDuffie to make it 30-20. The Knights went up 17 midway through the fourth quarter when Harvey scored his third TD after Justin Boddie intercepted Keenum and ran the pick back 22 yards to the Houston 7.

For Keenum, who's thrown for 31 TDs, it was only his sixth interception of the season.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press. Active hyperlinks have been inserted by AOL.

UCF Slows Keenum, Topples Houston originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:16:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>case keenumcolt mccoyFanHouse NewswireSat, 14 Nov 2009 16:16:00 EST Keenum's Heisman Campaign Heats Uphttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/11/11/keenums-heisman-campaign-to-heat-up-at-central-florida/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/11/11/keenums-heisman-campaign-to-heat-up-at-central-florida/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/11/11/keenums-heisman-campaign-to-heat-up-at-central-florida/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Case KeenumIf Central Florida's maligned pass defense is looking for motivation, well, here it is: The last time Case Keenum did not throw a touchdown pass was on Nov. 10, 2007, in a 56-7 defeat at Tulsa.

So it can be done.

Keenum's aerial show visits the Sunshine State on Saturday, when No. 12 Houston meets UCF in a key Conference USA showdown in Orlando. Better yet, it's also another great opportunity for Keenum, who has thrown for more than 1,000 yards in his past two games alone, to impress Heisman Trophy voters. That's if Keenum cares.

"I don't know what the Heisman voters are thinking," Keenum said.

"My goal right now is to beat UCF. My goal is not to win the Heisman or break records. Any individual award is a team award. If you're not being successful and winning games, those team accolades are not going to come your way."
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For the poor Knights, who were carved like a Thanksgiving turkey by another Heisman hopeful last week -- Texas quarterback Colt McCoy threw for 470 yards -- it might be a case of jumping out of the roasting pan into the fire.

The game pits Houston's strength (No. 1 in the nation in pass offense and scoring) against UCF's biggest weakness (No. 114 in the nation against the pass).

The Knights are surrendering 267.6 passing yards per game -- a mark that Keenum usually reaches, and surpasses, by the third quarter.

Keenum's on pace to break almost every Cougar passing and total offense record, and he's the runaway national passing leader while directing the Cougars to their best start (8-1) since 1990 and highest national ranking since 1991.

And remember, this is a program that produced Kevin Kolb, David Klingler and 1989 Heisman Trophy winner Andre Ware.

"They have a very dynamic offense, but we feel like we're up for the challenge," UCF safety Derrick Hallman said. "It's a big opportunity and I can't really explain how excited I am to be facing a team that throws the ball 50 or 60 times a game."

Keenum's heroics last Saturday helped Houston avoid a major upset on the final play against Tulsa. Keenum led the offense to nine points in the final 21 seconds, and completed 40-of-60 passes for 522 yards and three touchdowns in the 46-45 victory.

It marked the third time -- and second in a row -- that Keenum led the Cougars on a last-minute scoring drive in the fourth quarter to win the game.

"His character -- he is the same on and off the field. A great leader and I know he will lead us to victory," senior receiver Tim Monroe said when asked to describe Keenum's best attributes.

"The past game he didn't show any feelings. He had it in his head and believed we were going to win that game. Now we are winning games, with his numbers, there shouldn't be any reason why he shouldn't win the Heisman Trophy this year."

Houston and Conference USA have begun trying to drum up publicity for Keenum in what has turned out to be a wide-open Heisman race.

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In ESPN's weekly Heisman Watch, Keenum ranked second this week behind Alabama running back Mark Ingram, who has rushed for 1,148 yards this season, 719 coming against four ranked opponents.

Ingram had 144 yards on 22 carries, 16 in the second half, in the Tide's 24-15 home win over LSU last Saturday that clinched the SEC West.

Keenum was listed fourth behind Ingram, defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh of Nebraska and running back C.J. Spiller of Clemson in SI.com's weekly countdown.

Florida quarterback Tim Tebow is trying to become the only player other than Archie Griffin (Ohio State 1974 and 1975) to win two Heismans, while McCoy is trying to win his first in his final season.

Keenum, who is a one pass-at-a-time and one-game-at-a-time player, says he's more worried about the big picture than an invitation to the Nokia Theater Times Square, home to the Heisman presentation in New York City next month.

Don't worry that he has had at least 359 yards passing in every game but one, he's topped 500 yards three times and he's thrown at least three touchdowns in six games this season.

At this rate, he's on pace to throw for 5,087 yards (just under three miles) and 37 touchdowns.

Overall, Keenum has thrown at least one touchdown in 30 of 32 career games. If UCF is counting, the only other game, besides the Tulsa contest, that Keenum didn't throw a scoring pass was in a 56-48 win over Rice in October 2007.

Keenum cares more about wins than numbers.

"We have to be careful about patting ourselves on the back and getting a big head," said Keenum, who is averaging 434.44 yards of total offense per game, 423.89 of it passing.

"It's nothing if we don't win on Saturday. UCF is a tough football team, so we have our work cut out."

Houston coach Kevin Sumlin agrees, pointing to a UCF defense that actually ranks first in Conference USA in total defense and is one of the country's top units in delivering pressure.

"It means something to me, but they're also sixth in the country in sacks and total tackles per loss," Sumlin said in reference to UCF's struggling pass defense.

"Some people aren't getting the ball off, so there are some other issues too. If you can get it off, maybe those statistics mean something. They're one of the top teams in the country in pressuring the quarterback.

"That ought to tell you a little something about their philosophy. When you start looking at total defense and averaging out those numbers, they're still top in our league."

Keenum's Heisman Campaign Heats Up originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Case KeenumCaseKeenumJim HenryWed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST Houston, We Have No Hype Problemhttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/27/houston-has-no-problems-with-hype/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/27/houston-has-no-problems-with-hype/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/27/houston-has-no-problems-with-hype/#commentsFiled under:

Houston CougarsHOUSTON -- It's a long football season and as we've seen in the first month to expect the unexpected.

So forgive Houston coach Kevin Sumlin if he'd just as soon shelve the BCS buster talk or if he'd rather not put the Cougars last two wins into perspective.

Sumlin might not want to discuss it but his Cougars just became a legitimate threat to break into the BCS party with early Sunday morning's improbable come-from-behind 29-28 win over Texas Tech. It was the 17-ranked Cougars' second win over a Big 12 opponent in as many games after they went to Stillwater two weeks ago and left with a 45-35 win over then-No. 5 Oklahoma State.

This time, the U of H fans were at home and more than willing to show their gratitude for the program's biggest win in more than two decades by promptly storming field.

"It was awesome, I can't thank the fans enough for coming out and being loud. It's the loudest I've ever heard that place," said UH junior quarterback Case Keenum, who engineered a huge late fourth quarter drive that ended with him running four yards for a touchdown to complete the rally. "Tech had a lot of people there, too. It was a great atmosphere. It was a lot of fun."

That's about as close as you are going to get to anyone in the Cougars camp admitting how big a deal the game that started late Saturday night really was for the program.

"We have to take it week by week," Keenum said. "By the way we put on a show, play hard and we have guys who can do pretty cool things with the football. We'll go out there and play hard and that's all we can do."

Art Briles began the rebuilding process of the once proud Southwest Conference team before leaving for Baylor.

Sumlin and his staff seem poised to take it to another level. But in doing so, Sumlin seems bent on not making any bold statements about what this season could bring or what it means for his Conference USA team to knock off two quality Big 12 opponents in a row.

"They're all big," said Sumlin, who is in second season coaching the Cougars. "As you win, every game becomes bigger. It's what it is: If we win, the next game is bigger than the last game. That's just the price of poker."

And if you believe Sumlin's poker face, you believe that he has fascination with the BCS or where his team might be in this week's polls. But the safe bet is Sumlin and his staff are stacking their chips.

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This season more than other could be interesting for how it's setting up. It seems every week a BCS member takes a hit, perhaps never more than Saturday when teams like Miami, Florida State, Penn State and Cal all got exposed.

In the meantime, non-BCS teams like Boise State, TCU and Houston could all keep rolling to potentially create a huge headache for the BCS behemoths. In the past few years, one or maybe two non-BCS schools entered into the conversation for the big-money bowl pie.

How about three teams to decide from this year? It's very possible if Boise State, TCU and Houston all keep winning as they head into play in their respective conference without the worry of knocking off each other. The BCS schools could be so lucky, but they have rules in place just in case..

In this world of parity where USF can upend Florida State on given night, so why can't expect South Carolina to be able to do the same to Florida or Alabama? Baylor could have something in store for the No. 2 Longhorns, too.

But a month into the season, Sumlin isn't quite ready to hit the campaign trail to get his team in the BCS mix once the big boys get done swapping beat downs.

"I'm not going to be a advocate for that," Sumlin said of starting the push of non-BCS teams for inclusion. "My concern right now is keeping my guys focused."

The Cougars (3-0) head into C-USA play next week at UTEP riding a strong wind of confidence. Facing a Mike Leach team that completely flipped the script on its quick passing attack Saturday night, the Cougars stood strong in their belief, even after playing from behind for most of the game.

Finally, their chance came late in the fourth when they turned a bad situation -- being pinned at their 5-yard line and needing a touchdown to take the lead -- by marching undauntedly toward their goals. There were third-and-longs and a fourth-and-four even. But that was no problem for Keenum, who one series earlier had thrown a costly interception.

Keenum lifted the Cougars during that series with both his legs and arm.

"There were a lot of emotions that go with it," Keenum said of that final drive. "If I have to pinpoint one emotion, I would say awesome."

Leach would like say something quite to the opposite. Leach and the Raiders had stifled UH early by going to a power running game for the first time this season. Running back Baron Batch gashed the Cougars defense for big runs at a pop. Texas Tech's first three touchdowns came on runs while Taylor Potts' first and only touchdown pass wouldn't come until 4:19 remained in the third quarter when he found Tramain Swindall for a 24 yards scoring pass.

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The man who had seemingly perfected the possession game fell in love with the run Saturday night. The Raiders actually rushed for 163 yards, which had been unheard of this season.

But in the end, Leach might have called one run too many when Potts got stuffed on a one-yard quarterback sneak on fourth-and-1one at the goal in the fourth quarter.

Had the Raiders, who have now lost back-to-back games, elected to kick the chip shot field goal, they would have gone up by eight points to force UH to score a touchdown and make a two-point conversation at the end for the tie.

"We had to play defense, you never know what Mike Leach is going to do, and he never has a pattern," Sumlin said. "Whoever can figure out what Mike Leach is going to do is a better coach than me."

Houston, We Have No Hype Problem originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 01:55:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Terrance HarrisSun, 27 Sep 2009 01:55:00 EST Is Houston Next for Reality Check?http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/26/is-houston-nex-for-reality-check/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/26/is-houston-nex-for-reality-check/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/26/is-houston-nex-for-reality-check/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

HOUSTON -- Already today we've found out Miami and Florida State aren't quite back as much as we believed and Cal isn't quite the threat we thought.

Could there be another back-to-reality moment coming tonight with the 17th-ranked University of Houston Cougars host Texas Tech in a heavily anticipated matchup of high-powered offense. The Cougars, of the Conference-USA became BCS buster candidates two weeks ago when they went into Stillwater, Okla. as an unranked team and left with a stunning 45-35 win over then No.5 Oklahoma State.

Follow after the jump for the rest of Terrance Harris' live blog from Houston.

UH is trying to make it two Big 12 teams in a row tonight against the Red Raiders in a matchup of old Southwest Conference foes. But for the first time this season, the 2-0 Cougars will be facing a team that is strong both offensively and defensively. The Red Raiders are definitely a defensive upgrade over Oklahoma State, which create problems for Houston and quarterback Case Keenum.

The Red Raiders (2-1) are coming off hard fought 34-24 loss to No. 2 Texas last week in a game in which they gave Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Colt McCoy serious trouble at times. Tech's first-year starting quarterback Taylor Potts, who leads the nation in most major passing categories, also was impressive during the loss on the road to the Longhorns.

If the Cougars, who are favored to win, are able to come away with another Big 12 win, they will be considered a legitimate contender for BCS acceptance should they then make it through C-USA play undefeated.

Houston is expecting a sold out crowd to pack Robertson Stadium for what could be the biggest game the Cougs have played in the last 20 years. Kickoff has been pushed back to 9:26PM ET.

FIRST QUARTER

This isn't quite the start Texas Tech was looking for. On the Raiders opening drive, quarterback Taylor Potts fumbled the ball away at the Red Raiders 34 on the drop back.

The Cougars show showed their appreciation by converting the turnover into a score when Kennum connected with James Cleveland on perfectly placed slant pass for a six-yard touchdown pass that put them ahead 7-0 with 10:43 to play. Keenun also had a perfect sideline pass on a rollout to Cleveland that moved UH to the 22.

*************
Okay let the fireworks begin. Minutes after the Cougars scored their first touchdown of the night, Texas Tech responded with a 10-play, 75-yard drive that ended with running back Baron Batch running around the left corner for a six-yard touchdown that made it 7-7 with 6:59 left in the first quarter.

**********
After two quick touchdowns early in the quarter, the first quarter morphed into a defensive struggle for both explosive offenses.. What' looked like a shootout in the making ended in a 7-7 tie.

SECOND QUARTER

The Cougars are still seeking their second touchdown of the night, but they did come away with 30-yard field goal by Jordan Mannisto after a promising drive died at the 13 yard line to give them the 10-7 lead with 8:52 remaining in the first half. Keenum took a costly sack with the Cougars within striking distance that could have re-energized the capacity crowd.

***********

So who says Texas Tech can't run the football? In a drive that began with a 35-yard end around by running Harrison Jefffers, the Red Raiders ran the ball down the throats of Houston. And it was only fitting that the drive end with a 11-yard run up the middle by Batch to give the Raiders their first lead of the night at 14-10 with 5:59 remaining in the second quarter. Tech ran the ball five times during the seven-play, 85-yard drive.


***************
Intent on establishing the run for the first time this season, Mike Leach makes his point with back-to-back long drives highlighted by gashing runs. That's right runs. Batch had a couple nice runs up the middle, but then it was Jeffers who raced up the middle breaking tackles along the way for a 13-yard touchdown run that gave the Raiders a 21-10 lead with 59 second remaining in the first half. All three of the Raiders touchdowns in the first half have come on runs.

The interesting thing on the most recent rushing touchdown, is it came right after a Houston timeout.

**************

The Cougars put together a scoring drive in the final 59 seconds that ended with a 50-yard field goal by Mannisto after some curious use of timeouts near the end. The Cougs went into halftime trailing 21-13.

************
Those who are expecting a shootout between the two high-powered offenses of Texas Tech and Houston have to be scratching their heads after the first two quarters.

It's been anything but the aerial attack this non-conference has been billed to be. The Cougars weren't able to get on track during the first half, scoring their only touchdown on a short drive following a turnover early in the first quarter. They've had to settle for two field goals in the second quarters.

Texas Tech, the most prolific passing offense in the country, has pulled the old bait-and-switch in the first two quarters. They've relied heavily on the run to completely confuse the Cougars. The Raiders have rushed the ball 19 times for 117 yards. They have just 145 yards through the air.

Baron Batch has been the workhorse with 76 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries in the first two quarters.


THIRD QUARTER

The Cougars finally get going offensively with an impressive third quarter drive that reduced their deficit to 21-20 when Beall plunged in from one-yard out with 7:14 remaining in the quarter. UH marched 87 yards on seven plays as Keenun's passing touch returned. The biggest of the pass plays was a 45-yard bomb to Tyron Carrier in which the reciver had to come back for the ball at the Tech 26.

***************

Who would have guessed it would haven taken Texas Tech quarterback Taylor Potts until the end of the third quarter to throw his first touchdown pass? Well with Leach fascinated with the run, Potts finally got his first touchdown pass with 4:19 remaining in the third when he hit Tramain Swindall on a short slant that turned into a tackle-breaking 24-yard touchdown reception that put the Raiders back in control with a 28-20 lead.


***************

UH doesn't appear ready to fold them yet. The Cougars keep fighting back. Sparked by the second Tech turnover of the night, the Cougars converted a 20-yard field goal attempt by Mannisto to pull within 28-23 of the lead with 12 seconds remaining in the third quarter.

The Cougs final scoring drive of the third quarter has set up an interesting fourth quarter that is sure to produce some sparks.

FOURTH QUARTER

Leach might have made the biggest mistake of the night by electing to go for it on fourth-and-goal at the 1 instead of kicking the field goal that would have put the Raiders ahead by 8 points. Potts was stuffed on the quarterback sneak, turning the ball over on downs midway through the fourth quarter. Texas Tech has no timeouts remaining should UH reclaim the lead on the ensuing drive.


****************

Texas Tech appears to have stopped the momentum of the Cougars by coming up with a huge interception of a Keenum pass to Monroe over the middle. Backup safety Will Ford stepped in front of Monroe for the pick at the Tech 34 that stopped a potential go-ahead scoring drive by the Cougars.


************


Heading down to the sidelines for postgame interviews with the Raiders holding a 28-23 lead with 6:40 remaining.


The Cougars drive 95 yards on their final drive and Keenun runs in from four yards out with 49 seconds remaining for the decisive touchdown for the 29-28 win over Texas Tech. The 17th-ranked Cougards have now defeated two straight Big 12 opponents in a row.

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Is Houston Next for Reality Check? originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 20:49:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Terrance HarrisSat, 26 Sep 2009 20:49:00 EST Texas Tech, Houston Share More Than Offensive Flairhttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/25/texas-tech-houston-share-more-than-offensive-flair/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/25/texas-tech-houston-share-more-than-offensive-flair/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/25/texas-tech-houston-share-more-than-offensive-flair/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dana HolgorsenHOUSTON -- Reclined way back with his feet kicked up on a table in the Houston Cougars' film room Tuesday and answering questions in a philosophical yet aloof way, Dana Holgorsen was channeling his inner Mike Leach without even realizing it.

The voice, the demeanor and delivery were all Leach -- albeit a younger, less clean-shaven Leach.

"I sat in the same room as him for many, many years," Holgorsen, the Cougars second-year offensive coordinator said when reminded of the similarity. "All of that stuff rubbed off, I guess."

Apparently much more than some not-so-subtle mannerisms rubbed off on Holgorsen throughout their time together -- including eight years on Leach's Texas Tech staff -- first as his receivers coach, and later as his co-offensive coordinator before heading to UH. Off and on during the last 20 years, Holgorsen has had a chance to learn firsthand the unorthodox way Leach approaches offensive football, spreading the field and using a quick-strike passing game to move the ball downfield much the way traditional offenses use the running game.

Holgorsen was like sponge until breaking out on his own last year.

Much of what Holgorsen has picked up from Leach will be heavily debated Saturday night when the 17th-ranked Cougars host the Texas Tech Red Raiders in what is expected to be a display of explosive offenses that very much mirror one another.

"At times there are going to be a lot of the same plays that are run that look incredibly the same," Holgorsen told FanHouse. "I think probably the biggest thing is what's called in certain situations is going to be probably the biggest difference.

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"Part of it is he has five offensive linemen who are as big as that door. So he can just sit back and maul people. He's got a big tall quarterback, so [Taylor Potts] being able to throw it 60 or 65 times is a little more realistic than us at this point."

But that isn't to suggest the Cougars see themselves taking a backseat to Leach and his Raiders in this meeting of old Southwest Conference teams. UH has shown in two games this season that it's as explosive as Tech -- and in some cases perhaps more.

Led by an experienced quarterback in junior Case Keenum, the Cougars' 50.0 points per game in their first two contests lead the nation. Texas Tech ranks 19th in the country after averaging 39.0 points per game in its first three games this season.

Both offenses enter Saturday's game as two of the more prolific passing units in the country. The Raiders lead the nation in passing offense with 443.33 yards per game, while UH ranks fourth with 406.50 yards per game. Each offense will spread the field with four and five receiver sets and try to create mismatches in space with quicker receivers on slower defenders at a fast-break pace.

But interestingly, both sides seem to see as many differences as they do similarities.

"They are into motion more than we are," said Leach, who still remains close to Holgorsen. "They motion players around some, that would be the main thing. But there are a lot of similar plays, similar philosophy and stuff like that."

Motioning players is a wrinkle Holgorsen put into his version of the spread attack and quite possibly is something he suggested during his tenure at Tech that Leach elected to pass on.

"We're not scared to change some things up, not that he's scared," said Holgorsen, whose ties to Leach go back to the early 1990s when he played wide receiver for Leach's offense at Iowa Wesleyan. "He's not scared to change things, he's just reluctant to change things based on the fact it has worked for many, many, many years."

Second-year UH coach Kevin Sumlin admits to similarities in the two offenses but also insists there are major differences beginning with the ground attack. Leach has long used the rush as a means to keep defenses honest and as a change of pace.

The Cougars are much more committed to the run as evidenced by the production of running back Bryce Beall last season when he ran for 1,247 yards and 13 touchdowns on 198 carries as a freshman.

And that difference is already apparent this season with UH averaging 118.5 yards per game on the ground compared to just 28.7 yards per game for the Raiders.

"I think what we've been able to do is be a fairly balanced attack last year by creating a running game," Sumlin said. "It created a 1,300-yard rusher last year and he would have had more yards had I had sense enough to start him before the fourth game."

But Keenum also is capable of putting the ball in the air with speed guys like Tyron Carrier capable of getting open for big catches. It was Keenum's play two weeks ago that helped pave the way for the 45-35 upset of then-No. 5 Oklahoma State in Stillwater.

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The Raiders, meanwhile, are coming off a 34-24 loss to No. 2 Texas in Austin during the Big 12 opener last week that may have done more to bolster the reputation of Potts. Facing his first real test as a first-year starter, the 6-foot-5 signal-caller won the respect of many as he stood in and made key throw after key throw under enormous pressure from the Longhorns.

Potts completed 46 of 62 pass attempts for 414 yards in the losing effort. Potts, who leads the nation in most major passing categories, has passed for 1,281 yards and 12 touchdowns in three games and is averaging 427 yards per game through the air.

The numbers seem to suggest when Keenum and Potts trot their respective offenses onto the field Saturday night that it will be bombs away.

"People thought that when we went to Stillwater," Sumlin said. "Somehow when we play, people bring that up. You would be crazy if you didn't think that way just based on statistics, but that's all I heard about that game - could we outscore them? We played decent defense against Oklahoma State and won the game.

"We are set up and built for whatever happens."


Texas Tech, Houston Share More Than Offensive Flair originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>case keenumCaseKeenumkevin sumlinKevinSumlinmike leachMikeLeachtaylor pottsTaylorPottstexas tech footballTexasTechFootballTerrance HarrisFri, 25 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST BCS or Bust for Houstonhttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/22/bcs-or-bust-for-houston/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/22/bcs-or-bust-for-houston/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/09/22/bcs-or-bust-for-houston/#commentsFiled under: ,

Houston, Oklahoma StateHOUSTON -- It seems every football season there is the push to find the ultimate BCS buster.

And there have been some good ones to crash the "Members Only" party for the big boys of college football. The interesting thing is the club of little guys capable of breaking through has been even more exclusive than the club entry they seek.

Boise State. Utah. Hawaii. TCU.

But this year those teams might have a new member with the University of Houston putting together a potentially impressive resume for entry. The Cougars, coached by second-year man Kevin Sumlin, has already caused quite a stir in the elite college football landscape when they rolled into Stillwater and rolled over then No. 5 Oklahoma State 45-35..

That was enough to earn the Cougars instant recognition with an entry into the Top 25. But now the Cougars have a chance to show the nation just how much of a BCS threat they truly are with a chance to defeat their second quality Big 12 opponent in as many games when Texas Tech enters a sold out Robertson Stadium Saturday night.

Talk about a BCS or bust opportunity for these Cougs.

"It's not really a goal, but it's an unseen goal," UH senior center Carl Barnett said when if the team hoped to be one of the rare non-BCS teams to break through to a BCS bowl game this postseason. "We are trying to take every game one by one and will just try to win the next game. You can't see the future; you just have to play the game that is right in front of you, take it day by day, and do what we need to, to get to the overall goal."

Sumlin couldn't have said it better himself as he tries to keep his team focused on his mantra that it's a 12-opportunity season and no opportunity is bigger than the next. But that will be much easier said than done, especially if UH gets past a dangerous Tech teams that mirrors the Cougars in offensive explosiveness.

Should the Cougars get past the Red Raiders, only a Halloween showdown with Southern Miss stands out as an obvious potential stumbling block.

Already the campus is buzzing, the city of Houston is tuning in and the alumni are already thinking back to the Jack Pardee days in the old Southwest Conference when the Cougs were a feared team.

Sumlin said when his staff and players showed up for 6:30AM workouts recently, they were greeted by cheering students wrapped around the athletic building on campus.

"For us it's great, for the University it's great, but for our team we can't get too high or too low because no matter what happens Saturday, win or lose we've still got to out and play nine or 10 more times, at least," said Sumlin, whose team opened the season with an overwhelming 55-7 win over Northwestern State. "We're appreciative but what we would like to have for this to be the norm instead of just a once in a while thing. If we continue to do our part, if we put the right product on the field, it shows me what we are capable of doing."

So far, Sumlin and his staff have put out a very quality product that starts with junior quarterback Case Keenum and extends to players like running back Bryce Beall, receiver Tyron Carrier and linebacker Marcus McGraw.

Art Briles got things back on track at UH during his five-year tenure before bolting for Baylor. Now Sumlin, who was an offensive coordinator under Oklahoma's Bob Stoops and former Texas A&M coach R.C. Slocum, has a chance to take what Briles started to the next level.

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"He's doing fabulous, everyone recognizes that," Stoops said. "We're excited for Kevin and just really pleased that him and his staff are doing so well. Everybody here still remains close with Kevin and we are always following and seeing his scores. We're just happy for him and I'm sure he will continue to do well."

Sumlin's tenure got off to a great start in 2009 when one of the first hires he made was bringing in Dana Holgorsen -- a disciple of Texas Tech coach Mike Leach -- into the fold as his offensive coordinator. It wasn't long before the Cougs offense was putting up Red Raiders type offensive numbers.

Their confidence began to build with last season's 8-5 finish, which marked the programs fifth bowl berth in six seasons. But their belief in what's possible was cemented with the victory over an Oklahoma State squad that might still contend for the Big 12 title this season.

The Cougs (2-0) stood toe-to-toe with OSU and then swatted away a spirited comeback attempt in a hostile environment.

But instead of patting his team on the back for earning the program's most impressive win in years, Sumlin challenged his players to identify their mistakes and areas they needed to get better before their next opportunity.

"If we continue to get better, that's what I'm concerned with," said Sumlin, whose team had bye this past week. "The crazy thing about college football is we can play worse, too, particularly with a young team. It's our job to try to get better every week. If we can go out and play as well as we can play and it's not good enough that's alright.

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"But I think we are getting to a point now where we can tell our guys if we can play up to where our potential is and eliminate mistakes, I think we will be successful."

It already seems just three weeks into the season, the Cougs have experienced an unexpected level of success. They enter Saturday's game ranked while the Red Raiders (2-1), who lost on the road to No.2 Texas last Saturday night, have yet to enter the Top 25 this season. And UH will actually be favored against its Big 12 opponent.

But Sumlin isn't buying into such role-reversal anecdotes.

"That's for everyone else to worry about because three weeks ago they would have thought it would have been flipped," he said. "But timing is everything. The game was on the schedule three months ago, it didn't matter whether we were ranked, whether they were ranked based on what's going on in the game. It's an important game for both teams.

"Something tells me there were going to be a lot of people at this game no matter what happens so it just kind of adds to it."

BCS or Bust for Houston originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>art brilesArtBrilesbob stoopsBobStoopscase keenumCaseKeenumkevin sumlinKevinSumlinTerrance HarrisTue, 22 Sep 2009 19:35:00 EST After Freak Leg Injury, Houston Receiver Patrick Edwards Ready for Practicehttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/03/10/patrick-edwards-will-be-at-spring-practice/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/03/10/patrick-edwards-will-be-at-spring-practice/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2009/03/10/patrick-edwards-will-be-at-spring-practice/#commentsFiled under: ,

Patrick Edwards' name might not ring a bell, but this video probably does. A loud bell. One that hurts your ears, teeth, and legs. Edwards was the freshman receiver for Houston who had an unfortunate run-in with an ill-placed golf cart behind the end zone last October, an injury some felt would be career-ending.

The incredible part of all this is that Edwards is recovering so well from it, Houston plans to have him back for spring practice.

Graham Watson of ESPN reported this on Edwards.
He will do non-contact drills with the team, but isn't ready to go full speed on the fracture that was repaired with a metal rod and pins. However, all indications are that he will return to the field during the 2009 season.
I can't think of an explanation as to how the compound fracture Edwards suffered would be healed in less than six months.

Edwards, who will be a sophomore when the season begins next season, should know that there will be one person watching more Houston football this year than he did in '08 -- me. I'm more impressed by stuff like this than any Dwyane Wade buzzer beater. The guy beat the odds.

Maybe next time, the bozo that parks the carts will remember to pull them completely out of play so Edwards can just enjoy catching touchdowns. Honestly, what could this kid be scared of now?

h/t CFT

After Freak Leg Injury, Houston Receiver Patrick Edwards Ready for Practice originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 11:39:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Dwyane WadeDwyaneWadePatrick EdwardsPatrickEdwardsShane BaconTue, 10 Mar 2009 11:39:00 EST Turkey Legs to Go: Armed Forces Bowl Travel Guide, Houston vs. Air Forcehttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/12/17/turkey-legs-to-go-armed-forces-bowl-travel-guide-houston-vs-a/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/12/17/turkey-legs-to-go-armed-forces-bowl-travel-guide-houston-vs-a/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/12/17/turkey-legs-to-go-armed-forces-bowl-travel-guide-houston-vs-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Turkey Legs to Go is FanHouse's complete travel guide for all of the 2008-2009 college bowl games. Here, we cover the Armed Forces Bowl (Fort Worth, Texas), which pits Houston against Air Force.

Overview/Matchup: A strong performance from the Mountain West this year helped Air Force land in the Armed Forces Bowl (which seems pretty, pretty, pretty convenient) even though they lost their last two games against BYU and TCU, while Houston's 6-2 record was good enough for fourth overall in Conference-USA (yikes) and a spot in nearby Fort Worth.

Hotels: The top hotel in Fort Worth, the Renaissance Worthington Hotel offers a sophisticated atmosphere of polished wood and marble complimented by a courteous staff. The Renaissance is about four miles from the stadium. The Courtyard by Marriott on Riverfront Drive and the Days Inn on S. University Drive are each about a mile from the stadium. The Courtyard offers the best all-around value, balancing proximity to the stadium and quality of the hotel. The Days Inn will probably have rooms for less than US$100 per night, but you shouldn't expect the same quality amenities as the nearby Courtyard.

Restaurants: When it comes to dining in Fort Worth, there's only one place to celebrate a big win (that is assuming, a classy celebration is what you're after); Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House. Del Frisco's is the place to go for a world-class steak, but make sure you budget accordingly. Blue Mesa Grill is a local southwestern chain specializing in blue corn and green chilies. Reasonable prices and good portions make it a local favorite. One location is just north of Texas Christian.


Normally we've tried not to put two restaurants of the same variety in our guides, but Joe T. Garcia's deserves the exception. Joe opened part of his home as a restaurant in 1935. Thanks to recipes of his wife, Jessie, it's now one of Fort Worth's most renowned Mexican restaurants. The food is delicious and cheap, but be advised; it's a cash only establishment.

Nightlife: The major nightlife areas are in and around downtown and the Stockyard district. Billy Bob's Texas calls itself the "world's largest honky-tonk" and they're probably right. The massive bar/dance-hall/nightclub covers 7 acres. They offer live music, dancing, bull-riding and 32 different bars. If honky-tonk isn't your thing, look no further than City Streets. This massive 21,000 sq ft dance club, sports bar, pool hall, techno club and karaoke bar will have something for everyone.

All travel related information provided by Professional Travel Guide.

Turkey Legs to Go: Armed Forces Bowl Travel Guide, Houston vs. Air Force originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>armed forces bowlArmedForcesBowlturkeylegstogoturkeylegstravelguideWill BrinsonWed, 17 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST Houston's Patrick Edwards Might File Lawsuit Over Leg Injuryhttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/10/29/houstons-patrick-edwards-might-file-lawsuit-over-leg-injury/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/10/29/houstons-patrick-edwards-might-file-lawsuit-over-leg-injury/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/10/29/houstons-patrick-edwards-might-file-lawsuit-over-leg-injury/#commentsFiled under: ,



As you can see, in last night's Houston-Marshall game, one of the most freakish injuries you'll ever see occurred to wide receiver Patrick Edwards, and he isn't taking it lightly.

Edwards, who was running after an overthrown touchdown pass by Blake Joseph, ran into a poorly parked equipment cart, suffering a brutal compound leg fracture. The cart was basically just off the playing field, and Edwards, at full speed, had no chance to avoid it. Now, the question in the air is if Patrick and his family will file a lawsuit.

Houston Athletic Director David Maggard said he would pursue the matter with Marshall officials.

"It was duly noted, and I think we'll save the conversation for another day," Maggard told the Houston paper. "I don't think there is any question that it is a problem. We all noticed it, and we want to find out why something like that would occur. It was a serious injury, no question about it."

While I'm not a huge fan of lawsuits, this is unacceptable. The cart was basically in play and nobody did anything about it. I'm sure it was parked by some college manager, but an official or coach has to notice this and speak up.

Edwards, a red-shirt freshman for the Cougars, has hauled in the third most catches at his position and scored four times. He is obviously a young talent, and who knows how bad this leg injury could affect his career.

UPDATE -- After Surgery, Edwards Blames Refs, Not Marshall

After surgery on Wednesday, Edwards said he doesn't blame Marshall University for his brutal leg injury. He did say, however, that the refs should have been on top of things and made sure the cart was out of the way.
Edwards told The Associated Press from his hospital room in Huntington that he doesn't blame Marshall but said the referees should have ensured that the carts were moved away from the end zone.
There is still no mention of a possible lawsuit, but I'm nearly positive one will be heading our way in the coming days.

Houston's Patrick Edwards Might File Lawsuit Over Leg Injury originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:43:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Shane BaconWed, 29 Oct 2008 14:43:00 EST Gruesome College Football Video Shows How Not to Break Your Leghttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/10/29/gruesome-college-football-video-shows-how-not-to-break-your-leg/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/10/29/gruesome-college-football-video-shows-how-not-to-break-your-leg/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/10/29/gruesome-college-football-video-shows-how-not-to-break-your-leg/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In a game between Houston and Marshall tonight on ESPN, Houston freshman receiver Patrick Edwards added himself to the sports injury hall of fame while attempting to catch a pass.

The pass sailed just out of his reach in the back of the end zone and as he slowed down the proverbial unstoppable force met the immovable object -- in this case, an oddly placed metal cart a few feet from the back of the end zone.

A trip to the land of horrible ensued. Naturally, Edwards emerged from the carnage with a compound fracture of the leg. Unless snuff films and other assorted awfulness is your thing ('tis the season?), we're warning you this is ugly. Video after the jump.



This is why your state's department of transportation sets up those water barrels near exit ramps -- its better for your wayward car to smash some plastic than saw itself in half as it heads into several feet of solid concrete.

Edwards was afforded no such luxury.

Needless to say, Houston's miffed, Marshall's got some splainin' to do and the world is not a better place for this happening.

(Via Sports by Brooks)

Gruesome College Football Video Shows How Not to Break Your Leg originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 01:50:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>horrible injuriesHorribleInjuriesPatrick EdwardsPatrickEdwardsthere but for the grace of God go IThereButForTheGraceOfGodGoIBrian GrummellWed, 29 Oct 2008 01:50:00 EST Texans Pick LT Duane Brown; Would Have Missed Him With Another Trade Downhttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/04/30/texans-pick-lt-duane-brown-would-have-missed-him-with-another-t/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/04/30/texans-pick-lt-duane-brown-would-have-missed-him-with-another-t/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/04/30/texans-pick-lt-duane-brown-would-have-missed-him-with-another-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A number of talking heads believe that the Texans picked Virginia Tech left tackle Duane Brown too early. They believe the Texans could have traded down again and still got their target. Those people would be wrong.

The San Diego Union-Tribune is reporting that the Chargers wanted Brown with the 27th pick:

"Funny that the Chargers finally got a tackle with their final pick. They had been stymied from starting off the draft with one when an unprecedented eight tackles were selected before they picked at No. 27.

'We came up one pick short,' said [Norv] Turner, who along with the rest of the Chargers brass watched Houston trade into the 26th spot and take tackle Duane Brown of Virginia Tech."

At the Texans draft party, someone told me shortly after the trade down from 18 that Brown was going to be the pick. I didn't believe it until I heard the pick later. If Brown was the target, then trying to trade down again was going to get too cute.

If the Texans only have offensive line guru Alex Gibbs for a short period of time, you should probably get him the tackle he wants pronto.

Texans Pick LT Duane Brown; Would Have Missed Him With Another Trade Down originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:05:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>alex gibbsAlexGibbsduane brownDuaneBrownnorv turnerNorvTurnerStephanie StradleyWed, 30 Apr 2008 17:05:00 EST Houston Texans Coach Loves Steve Slaton; Calls Reggie Bush 'Third Down Type Player'http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/04/28/houston-texans-coach-loves-steve-slaton-calls-reggie-bush-thir/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/04/28/houston-texans-coach-loves-steve-slaton-calls-reggie-bush-thir/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/04/28/houston-texans-coach-loves-steve-slaton-calls-reggie-bush-thir/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


It's not a big secret that the Texans were looking for a running back in the draft. They acquired West Virginia standout Steve Slaton in the third round as a change of pace back.

While discussing the NFL trend toward having at least one receiving-type playmaking RB, Texans offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan gave Reggie Bush a left handed compliment in the process (video above):
"I think Steve Slaton pretty much fits any offense to tell you the truth. The reason I think that is because he's a good runner, and a good enough runner can fit into any scheme. What we like most about Slaton, is I think he's got a chance to be a special-type player. You look at guys around the league like Kevin Faulk, a guy like Reggie Bush; guys who come in and fill a specific role on third downs.
...
I think when a guy is 197 pounds and if you look at the history throughout the NFL there are not too many guys that are first and second down player for long periods of time. When you look at a guy that people are projecting as a third down type guy or a change of pace guy I believe a lot of teams have more important needs that go early in the draft. One exception is Reggie Bush; he is the highest guy that I've seen go that is a third down type player. The third round is when these guys start popping out."
That's about as direct as the Texans have come to talking about why they didn't pick The! Best! Running Back! Evaaaar! that a lot of people thought was a no brainer pick in the 2006 draft.

When asked about Shanahan's Reggie Bush-Kevin Faulk comparison, Slaton was having none of that. He is good with being his own fine self.

If you want to see the obligatory music filled, running back highlight YouTube of Slaton, check this one out:
If that doesn't make you want the season to start immediately, I don't know what will.

Previously at FanHouse:
Everything Steve Slaton

Houston Texans Coach Loves Steve Slaton; Calls Reggie Bush 'Third Down Type Player' originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>kevin faulkKevinFaulkkyle shanahanKyleShanahanreggie bushReggieBushsteve slatonSteveSlatonStephanie StradleyMon, 28 Apr 2008 15:15:00 EST Iowa CB Charles Godfrey's Tattoo Might Get Him Hazedhttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/02/25/iowa-cb-charles-godfreys-tattoo-might-get-him-hazed/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/02/25/iowa-cb-charles-godfreys-tattoo-might-get-him-hazed/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2008/02/25/iowa-cb-charles-godfreys-tattoo-might-get-him-hazed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Texans need more competent players in their secondary. Iowa CB/Safety Charles Godfrey went to high school in Houston, is a huge Texans fan and wants to be drafted by them.

He loves them so much that he sports a Texans logo on his right hand. He didn't mention it to the Texans when they interviewed him.

If he becomes a Texan, maybe it is a win-win. If he goes to one of the other 31 teams in the league, well then, rookie hazing might be a little rough for a guy with a logo of another team on his hand.

For what it is worth, here's one of those internet scouting reports on Godfrey, and an interview where he says that his favorite team growing up was the Dallas Cowboys. Various reports predict that Godfrey could be drafted anywhere from the second to the fourth round.

Iowa CB Charles Godfrey's Tattoo Might Get Him Hazed originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:02:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Charles GodfreyCharlesGodfreyStephanie StradleyMon, 25 Feb 2008 16:02:00 EST Houston Makes Bid for Big 12 Championship Gamehttp://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2007/05/01/houston-makes-bid-for-big-12-championship-game/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2007/05/01/houston-makes-bid-for-big-12-championship-game/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2007/05/01/houston-makes-bid-for-big-12-championship-game/#commentsFiled under: ,

A proposal submitted by a group of partners, including the city of Houston, aims to bring the Big 12 Conference football championship game back to Reliant Stadium. The Houston group hopes to host the game in 2008, as well as in either 2011 or 2012. Houston has hosted the conference title game twice before in 2002 and in 2005.
"We've got a good history with the Big 12," said Shea Guinn, president of SMG-Reliant Park. "It's not an unknown quantity for the Big 12. They've been here twice. The last time they were here was one of the most successful ever from the feedback we got."
Several other cities are also expected to bid to host the 2008 game. These include Kansas City, San Antonio, and Arlington, Texas. Kansas City represents one of the few options for hosting the game in the north, and has hosted three out of the past four Big 12 title games. St. Louis could represent another northern option, but the city has not hosted the game since 1998.

A decision about the fate of the 2008 Big 12 Championship Game could come as soon as next month. The conference will host its annual spring meetings in Colorado Springs May 21.

Houston Makes Bid for Big 12 Championship Game originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 01 May 2007 13:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Jeff AdamsTue, 01 May 2007 13:30:00 EST Spring Practice Questions Complete Series: The Big 12http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2007/03/27/spring-practice-questions-complete-series-the-big-12/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2007/03/27/spring-practice-questions-complete-series-the-big-12/http://ncaafootball.fanhouse.com/2007/03/27/spring-practice-questions-complete-series-the-big-12/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


In case you've missed the FanHouse's awesomely awesome and fantastic Spring Practice Questions, I've cobbled together the "Complete Series" for Big 12 teams.

Seriously, read these, folks. They're about football. And right now the sporting world isn't about football. And you're dying for more football. That's why you're here. To endure this choppy writing of mine. And read these Big 12 Spring Practice Questions. The complete series. Below.

Previously at the FanHouse:
Spring Practice Questions: Texas Tech Red Raiders
Spring Practice Questions: Iowa State Cyclones
Spring Practice Questions: Missouri Tigers
Spring Practice Questions: Kansas State Wildcats
Spring Practice Questions: Oklahoma Sooners
Spring Practice Questions: Texas A&M Aggies
Spring Practice Questions: Texas Longhorns
Spring Practice Questions: Colorado Buffaloes
Spring Practice Questions: Nebraska Cornhuskers

Spring Practice Questions Complete Series: The Big 12 originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 01:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Big 12Big 12 footballBig12Big12Footballcollege footballCollegeFootballIowa StateIowa State CyclonesIowa State footballIowaStateIowaStateCyclonesIowaStateFootballKansas StateKansas State footballKansas State WildcatsKansasStateKansasStateFootballKansasStateWildcatsMissouriMissouri footballMissouri TigersMissouriFootballMissouriTigersOklahomaOklahoma footballOklahoma SoonersOklahomaFootballOklahomaSoonersspring practiceSpringPracticeTexas TechTexas Tech footballTexas Tech Red RaidersTexasTechTexasTechFootballTexasTechRedRaidersBrian GrummellTue, 27 Mar 2007 01:00:00 EST