Today's custom image comes from anonymous and would like to thank him/her for the pics ... sweet work with the photoshop, yo. Teeeeeach me? Seriously more to come too.
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Ramel Bradley
Normally for this blog during football season it consists of ups and down, should I blog this or shouldn't I, and mainly playing my frustrations with the team through the XBox. That doesn't excuse my long absence from this blog, one because well, I haven't been playing video games, and two, the Cats are freakin' hot.
Hearing that Kentucky is a top 10 team really is complimented with a feeling of disbelief. Not that I didn't want to see this happen but maybe because I never thought it would happen in my lifetime. Finally Kentucky has reached the national spotlight and we're not in basketball season. The hope was always there, it still resides deep inside my heart - national championship title for Kentucky football, but as a fan I guess the feeling of whether it would or could happen in my lifetime was or is a slight doubt.
Hearing Kentucky be slated as the number eight team in the nation has changed the hope in me. Maybe this is a miracle year for my Cats. In fact, I have a strong feeling that if these kids can overcome LSU, they may just run the table in the SEC and get to the conference championship. If they win that game, I'd find it hard to believe Kentucky not being in the national championship game based on where they stand NOW. Winning out is key. You could say I'm a bit premature and have let the current rise in the state of UK go to my head, but if you look at where Kentucky stands now, yes, if they can get past LSU and run the table, it would be hard, based on whom Kentucky would have beatened this year, to not put them in the conversation for the national championship. They will have at least a BCS bid, and hopefully Woodson earns the Heisman. In my lifetime I would have never expected to see Kentucky ranked in the top 10 except on a video game. That's true Su-Fi, yo. Su-Fi. But now I'm thinking, damn, Kentucky may have a shot at the national title if they win out. In what, three weeks, they have jumped from 21 to 8. That's a huge Su-Fi to Big Blue Nation on the parts of Rich Brooks and company.
Their play has astounded me. Mainly from halftime adjustments to put their opponents away in the second half. Defensively, Kentucky is getting there and they clearly can play, I feel, against any team in the nation now. If you don't know who Woodyard or Kelley is, you'll soon find out. If you don't know who Stevie Johnson is, you're defense will soon find out. With the Johnson emerging as yet a 5 or 6th option from the line, it's hard to believe with Woodson's talent that the offense will sputter in a game. Just hearing the names makes me giddy yo: Burton, Tamme, Lyons, Little, Stevie, Dixon, and now even Locke. Most of all I have to give a big Su-Fi to the Kentucky offensive line. They literally just grew up before my eyes and they are just beating down and protecting Woodson. That's a huge part I think that gets missed in all of this. Kentucky's offensive line may just be one of the best in the nation.
So yeah, Kentucky's freakin' ranked 8th man. Thursday night will also be another test. SC on the road yo. Gotta suck, but I think these guys are up to the challenge. After all, these guys have earned the respect of 8th in the nation. It's not a matter of it being a road game; it's a matter of defending that respect and taking care of Spurrier whom I loathe to pieces. Like I said, they're 8th in the nation now, and it's hard to believe they won't at least be in the Top 3 in the nation if they can survive LSU and win out.
Su-Fi to the Big Blue Nation, yo.
LINKAGE
[ASoB] Post mortem on Florida Atlantic
[Bracketology 101] Basketball: Bold Prediction: Kentucky an early 3 seed
[Scout] Like, Holy S***, Right?
Wildcats Earn Poll Position
[LHL] UK Major SEC Factor
NOTE: Your worldwide leader in sports blogging, Deadspin and AOL's Fanhouse, have absolutely no reaction at all to the sudden rise of UK in the polls. I laugh in total disgust. (Calling UK Bias).
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A 56-20 win over Kent St. should please the Big Blue Nation, after all by all indications of the first half, Kent St showed up and was going to fight to the bitter end but the Kentucky defense showed up in the second half and only allowed six points to the pleasing fans of many. Woodyard and Kelley combined for 26 tackles alone maybe hinting at a little halftime spill by the coach telling those guys to step it up because the talents of Kent St won't amount to what they will go up against in the SEC this year. So congrats to these kids, Kentucky is 2-0 going up against L'ville, a top 10 opponent, this weekend which should be a dandy, Brohm vs Woodson.
Fantasy
I didn't do as well as I would have hoped. Woodson was in fantasy terms decent but could've been better, but I'll credit Kent St's D for that. They did hang with us for one half. Here's where I stand on the year …
Week 1 Actual: 66 Earned: 40
Week 2 Actual: 47 Earned: 56
Diff: -57
Game Blog Nominees
Here are this week's Week 2 Game Blog Nominees vs Kent St. Feel free to tell me I'm wrong I suppose or maybe even agree with me.
#4 Rafael Little
Little ran 102 yards on 13 carries averaging over 7 yds a carry. That's game blog material, yo!
#3 Keenan Burton
Keenan showed us why he's still #1 WR for UK with 109 yds receiving and a score. Lyons and Tamme were quiet while sleeper pick wideout Stevie Johnson made a showing.
#2 Braxton KelleyKelley totalled 11 tackles for the game and for a defense that showed up in the second half of this game, that's reason enough this kid gets number two.
#1 Wesley Woodyard
Woodyard led Kentucky with 15 tackles and combined with Kelley totalled over 25 tackles which helped lead Kentucky to a second half rout of Kent St. Woodyard more than held his own here. Well done. Now it's time to see this type of performance against ninth ranked Louisville this Saturday.
Items of Interest
· Basketball: It's official, Tracy Webster is Giddyup's third and final assistant coach, who also was the lead recruiter in Darius Miller's recruiting. My question is what took so long?
· Little has good chance to put up huge numbers as he leads the team in rushing, however, as pointed out by Jody Demling it's not all Little. In fact, in my opinion, the healthier Little is, the more opportunity guys like Dixon will score the TDs, you know except when Little busts a 50 yarder on ya. Either way, it bids well for UK this week that he's healthy.
‘ "Rafael's had a great career for us, and two years ago he's all we had," UK coach Rich Brooks said. "Now we have some other things to go with him." ’
Reason enough in that statement that we'll be seeing more Dixon as well - possibly in goalline situations?
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Rafael Little is funny, yo. Seriously funny. na na na na naaaaa ... Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeah!
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Despite offending a few Kent St fans, the fact is that Kentucky has high expectations based on who they return this year and how they ended their season last year. Whatever Kent St has for Kentucky, the Wildcats D should have an answer. As I've said before, Kentucky has to beat teams like Kent St and EKU if they expect to be taken seriously surrounded by their own hype (ie. Believe). So other than a win, it's a disappointment. Now when we start getting into the SEC schedule expectations will be high but realistic. Needless to say, it's realistic to beat teams like Kent St. if Rich Brooks expects to ever visit the SEC Championship with Kentucky, so whatever Kent St has, Kentucky better have an answer for it because I don't care how improved Kent St may be, Kentucky clearly has enough playmakers to shut them and their fans up as far as I'm concerned. And if the Wildcats can't beat a team like Kent St., how the hell do you expect them to do anything worthwhile in SEC play? Believe? well honestly, Kentucky still has to prove they can go undefeated in non-conference play first. And I do believe, it's just the proving process ain't over yet folks. Show me they can beat the teams they're supposed to beat first, and then I'll start believing more. This should be a win and if any player on Kentucky's team wants to make another video telling us to “believe”, well, how bout takin' care of the non-conference sched first, then I'll believe even more. There's a reason you schedule a team like Kent St early in the season because it tests you just good enough without sacrificing a loss. At least you hope so, go ask Michigan. The season just began and it's not time to fold on us now kids. You only beat EKU at home, and you're next opponent is only Kent St. These are teams you have to beat FIRST before you can ever begin thinking of making a visit to the SEC Championship, right Coach Brooks?
Let's take care of these kids from Kent St. the way you're supposed to and expected to.
That said, I think and yes, believe as if that's not getting old (I wanna see results!), that Kentucky will give up no more than 10 points to Kent St. Here are my adjusted fantasy predictions …
Woodson: 240, 4 TDs
Little: 85 yards rushing, TD
Burton: 80 yards 2TDs
Lyons: 70 yards TD
Tamme: 50 yards TD
K: 2 FGs
DEF: 10 pts allowed, 2 FR, 2 INTs
FINAL SCORE: 34-10 Kentucky
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Kent St.,
Kentucky Football
From the guy behind Barnhart and Lyons in the blue striped shirt: “Hello Big Blue!”
From the Wildcat Blog's Prediction Headquarters:
“Woodson: 250 yds, 2TDs
Little: 80 yards rushing, 35 receiving, TD
Burton: 100 yard rec., TD
Lyons: 65 rec.,
Tamme: 40 yards rec.,
K: 2 FGs
DEF: 10 pts allowed, fumble rec., int
Predicted Score: Kentucky 34 EKU 10
Well a little over a day has passed since the home opener, and season opener for that matter, win against EKU has settled upon the mind. A couple of things I'm proud of … all involving my predictions.
· Andre Woodson threw for 250 and 3 scores -- I predicted 250 and 2 scores.
· I wasn't that far off from Rafael Little's stats of 135 and a score -- I predicted 80 and a score.
· Defense allowed 10 and picked EKU off once in a 50-10 win -- I predicted exactly 10 pts to EKU and an INT in predicted score of 34-10.
So while that wasn't amazing stats or anything in comparison, you have to give me some credit in at least being close to near dead on without even seeing this team prior to. So I'm happy. The only thing I'm truly amazed at, and yes I'm probably the last fan to finally realize it and accept it, but Tony Dixon is a beast man. The kid can juke and that's no fluke, yo. He's the real deal. Kentucky has two starting running backs in my opinion in Little and Dixon. And as I've said this before, Little could've own the game against EKU, however after sitting on it, so would've Tony Dixon - he only had 9 carries for 77 yds and 2 scores.
And yet while I was wrong about Keenan Burton, I learned my lesson. Burton's game is going to open up a lot opportunities for Lyons and Johnson and even Tamme. Even though Burton's 49 and one score is respectable, the game ball would've been given to Dicky Lyons simply for Kentucky's first offensive play of the game that went in the air to Lyons for six. You know what they say man, pump fakin' is for chump takin'. I kid, I kid. But how the heck does play action pass be THAT effective from the get go? Thank you Keenan! :). With that said, it's time for the Wildcat Blog's Game Blog Nominees and we've got some good ones, yo. So good I had to name six kids with Nominees that truely deserves mentioning, and don't forget at the end of the month, all my Game Blog Nominees will be presented at Wildcats Thunder for a decisive vote from it's members to decide who will be the Game Blog of the Month recipient of September, so remember to go register at THUNDER so you can vote, but I'll have a poll on this blog as well which will be added to WT's result.
Here are the Wildcat Blog's Game Blog Nominees for the game vs EKU
At #5, Johnny Williams - kid led Kentucky with 7 tackles, 5 of which he assisted on.
At #4, Rafael Little - the double back tandem of Little and Dixon proved to be too much for EKU, UK rushed for over 280 on 'em. Little rushed for 135 and a score and proved to me that he's back to be the SEC best back -- if only he could get 25-30 carries a game?
At #3, Sam Maxwell - kid was up there with 6 tackles and led Kentucky with 5 solo tackles. Not being named Woodyard nor Kelley, Maxwell deserves to be nominated.
At #2, Tony Dixon - 9 carries, 77 yards and 2 scores. Helped Kentucky put the rout into EKU and was surprisingly delicious addition in the backfield backing up Little. He was just 23 yards away from Kentucky having two 100 yard rushers in the season home opener!
At #1, Andre Woodson - 20-29, 250 yards, 3 TDs and most importantly, no interceptions! Kid wasn't quite was Brohm did in his opener given the two are being included in Heisman talk around the country but the kid was effecient. The opening pump-fake-jam to Lyons for six was as sweet as spring time honey-dew, yo! You just knew Woodson was going to have a great game and he did. And droppin 50 on a team like EKU is what you're expected to do, and he did.
Fantasy Update
You can do the calculations or you can trust me, I'm an honest person, but here's where I sit after one game in my predicted fantasy points …
Actual Fantasy Points Scored: 66
My Predicted Fantasy Points Earned: 40
DIFFERENCE: -26
Not bad, I busted goose eggs on Burton, Tamme, and our K - what's his name? lol, and I only earned 2 pts for Lyons' 113, TD performance because I only predicted he would have only 65 rec. LOL, that's how it goes.
Wildcats Thunder Record
I'm tied for 3rd going 8-2 over the weekend where members pick 10 games. Not bad since I normally don't pick college games. Straight up - no spread.
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Wildcats 50 EKU 10
Woodson: 20-29, 250 yds, 3TDs
Lyons: 113 yds, TD
Little: 135 yds, TD
· Game Stats
· photo gallery
· Quotes
“I was pleased with how we ran the football. Above anything, that was probably the thing I was most pleased with, about how hard our backs ran. I don’t know if you guys noticed, but I noticed how our offensive line got up the field for our backs to run outside. The athleticism of this offensive line is better.” -- Rich Brooks
Stat of the Game
Kentucky had six guys who averaged 4 per carry or more. They had three guys who ran for over 50, including Dixon who ran for over 75 and Little who ran for 135.
Little had only 12 carries. Now I know Dixon impressed me immensely and I know he's playing a backup roll to Little however Little could have busted this game open for over 200 had he more carries than just 12. That's surprising my friends, Little could've owned this game, but that doesn't take away from the performance of Dixon who impressed me just as much with his running.
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Eastern Kentucky,
Kentucky Football
Wide receiver Steve Johnson was arrested for a traffic stop. No license. Insurance. And resisted arrest.
Not what you wanna hear after your team's best wide receiver was hypin' you up. I forgive the kid though. It was a minor violation(s) and it wasn't like the kid had illicit drugs or weapons on him. He just forgot to 'click it before you get a ticket'. He'll pay his fines, maybe take a class and learn to use the seat belt, that's all. It's maybe just a little disappointing.
MORE:
· Rich Brooks says Johnson will play despite the ordeal and questions the resisting arrest charge.
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Kentucky Football,
Stevie Johnson
I knew there should be a reason why I should love John Clay aside from his excellent live blogging he did last year which is … audio clips.
Yes, John Clay has a couple audio clips of Rich Brooks' teleconference the other day and also has Keenan Burton's audio interview from the luncheon on the 27th this week. Both of which are going straight to the iPod. Immediately.
Go read John Clay's Blog. Keep the goodies coming John!
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Keenan Burton,
Kentucky Football,
Rich Brooks
According to CardChronicle, Lindy's Sports has Louisville at #5 and Kentucky at #21 in an early pre-season poll.
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There isn't a better community of guys and gals than at Wildcats Thunder. I love that place because of the atmosphere and maturity that envelops that site. Last year I became a member towards the tail end of UK's season and missed all the fun stuff going on. Well this year, I'm not missing out.
My boys at THUNDER have again started their traditional pickem contest, which for bragging rights is worth it. I could play elsewhere for prizes but the last time I supposedly won something, which I was told was an autographed Natalie Gulbis magazine via AOL's SBL, it never came. You can thank the Mottram Brothers for my new found skepticism involving internet prizes. So now I play for fun, I don't bother registering for this site or that site to play. So with that said, if you wanna play for fun, if I were you I'd go to THUNDER and play, and if you're not a member, well, heck sign up because it's worth the respect you get back from the guys who run the board. (Did I mention I was going to plug Wildcats Thunder today?). :P.
MY PICKS IN BOLD for Week 1 (Record: 0-0)
· EKU vs UK
· Georgia Tech vs Notre Dame
· W. Michigan vs W. Virginia
· Mississippi vs Memphis
· Washington St. vs Wisconsin
· Maryland vs Villanova
· UCLA vs Stanford
· WKU vs Florida
· Oklahoma St vs Georgia
· Kansas St vs Auburn
· Tennessee vs California
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College Pickem
KSR sometimes can be known for some goodies out there, heck, they do have guys connected to the program so they should have more to share, however today marks the first day in a long while that KSR gave us some goodies. We're glad they shared what they found. Namely a nice photoshoot of Andre Woodson with L'ville QB Brohm which is quite priceless and a link to Patrick Patterson's social network page. Everyone has a 'myspace' page that it's beginning to be overrated but we'll see what Patrick Patterson's page says. First, here's the vid of Woodson and Brohm together in a photoshoot. Thanks KSR!
Patrick Patterson
As you can see from this pic it's obviously a poser, some kid who has nothing else better to do than act like he's PP, which is why kids, you should never trust who anyone is just because they say they are. From A Pudge Is A Sandwich who found the so-called Patterson facebook page, he says,
“Ladies and Gentlemen I give you Mr. Patrick Patterson, the basketball player, the speller, the man who wants to legalize pot and the ribs killer.”
Kids, I highly, HIGHLY, HIGHLY doubt that THE Patrick Patterson who plays for UK is the author of this facebook page and am fairly certain that someone probably named Patrick Patterson or somehow else is posing to be the such Patrick Patterson who is going to tear it up on the court for UK. I just don't see how a kid as mature as Patterson seems would be using such language and slang on an internet site for all to see and judge. I just don't think Patterson can be that dumb in this particular case when he potentially has a career in front of him. I just don't buy it. Sorry. Will the real Patrick Patterson please stand up?
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(Keenan Burton says this guy, Stevie Johnson, will have a breakout season.)
Ahh, the smell of pigskin and freshly cut grass. Oh what's that, yeah, chili-cheese dip.
I've changed a few things since I posted my Fantasy Picks Guidelines and here's what I changed.
· Instead of 1 pt per yard, it will be 1 pt per 25 yards for passing, rushing, and receiving. I made it simple.
· I eliminated the special teams which included predicting kickoff return TDs and blocked kicks, again making my picks very simple.
· Again, I predict what the selected players will at least accomplish in the game. If they don't reach the stats I predicted for them, then I don't earn any fantasy points for them. They must at least earn the stats I predicted for me to get the points. Then if there's any difference between the predicted and actual, that will reflect how far off I was. Hopefully I won't be too far off by the end of the season.
With that said, here are my updated fantasy picks for this week vs EKU and I'm hoping I'm close to the actual - given I don't over predict the stats.
Woodson: 250 yds, 2TDs
Little: 80 yards rushing, 35 receiving, TD
Burton: 100 yard rec., TD
Lyons: 65 rec.,
Tamme: 40 yards rec.,
K: 2 FGs
DEF: 10 pts allowed, fumble rec., int
Predicted Score: Kentucky 34 EKU 10
LINKS
· Woodyard to the Butkus Watch List
· Little Named to the Doak Walker Watch List
· Press Conference Pre-Game Quotes
· ASoB: Know your opponent: EKU
Quote of the Week
This coming from Keenan Burton this week and he was asked by UK Athletics who he thinks may have a breakout season this year. Well, um, I don't know but, he obviously practices with him so, here's who he said,
“Stevie Johnson. He does everything you need a wide receiver to do. He runs his routes well, catches the ball and works hard. He’s so talented and is one of the best athletes I’ve ever seen, and he could easily be one of the best receivers we’ve had here in a long time. If he can keep his head straight, learn the game more and continue to work hard, I think the sky’s the limit.”
Stevie Johnson it is. I'll watch for him in the slot or #2 WR Position. I'll officially name to the Wildcat Blog Game Blog Watch List. Let the Game Blog Season begin! (Polls coming soon!)
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Kentucky Football
Today's blog interview comes from Aaron of Aaron's UK Basketball Blog, one of the eccentric UK Blogs out there that is on top of UK News. I was glad to hear Aaron was going to do this email interview, here's what he said,
1) Why did you get started with your blog/forum covering UK and has it been everything you'd hope it to be?
“as an alum, i am obviously a huge UK sports fan. about a year ago i realized i was sending a lot of uk basketball article links to my friends from college. instead of sending so many individual e-mails, i figured it would make more sense to start a blog and have them all in one centralized location that friends could visit.
the blog has exceeded my expectations. i've received almost one million page views in about one year's time. on a good day, the blog will get several thousand unique visits and 10,000 page views. as i mentioned, the blog was started with a few friends in mind. some people forwarded the link to places like catspause and kentuckysportsradio and it just took off.”
2) What's your home-state and how did you become a UK fan?
“I grew up in Florida, but now live in Atlanta, GA. I attended and graduated from UK. I spent a total of six great years in Lexington.”
3) What are your expectations going into the 07-08 football and basketball campaigns this season? Care to give predictions?
“I think the football team will do about the same of hopefully a little better than last year. The schedule is a little tougher, but many of the most difficult games are at home. It might be a little unrealistic to say we'll compete for the SEC title, but a good bowl game would be great. I think we certainly have the right returning nucleus of players to do it.
I think the basketball team will challenge Tennessee for the SEC Championship. They should be a little better than last year- the Sweet 16 or Elite 8 would be good for Gillispie's first year. I think we need to give Gillispie a few years so he can get his entire system in place.”
4) Like I just had a dream where Rajon Rondo refused to give me his autograph after I coached one of his practices ... any weird and wacky dreams involving UK you care to admit to?
“I had a dream that UK won it's eight NCAA Championship- hopefully it will come true soon.”
5) If you were to rate BCG on his recruiting and coaching efforts thus far, based on a scale of 1-10, 10 being best, how would you rate his performance?
“10. It was great that he was able to get Patterson and Legion so quickly. He's already got great recruits like Liggins, Ross-Miller, and Euton locked up way in advance. While he didn't get everyone, he didn't put all his eggs in one basket and has viable back-up options for each position/year. Recuiting under Tubby got very frustrating during the last few years. We were losing two and three star recruits to prep schools and inferior basketball programs. The Kanas game really showed that our guys just couldn't compete with the athletes of the top-tier programs.”
6) Andre Woodson is a Heisman Hopeful going into this season and everyone's expecting big things from the best QB in the SEC, however, in your opinion is there anyone else on the roster you think deserves being mentioned in Heisman conversations also?
“No. I think I read something that Keenan Burton is the fifth or sixth best receiver in the country. While this is great, it's obviously not Heisman material.”
7) How many UK hats, t-shirts, and jerseys do you currently own?
“One Hat, Several t-shirts, but no Jerseys. I also have UK cufflinks and slippers.”
8) Do enjoy playing UK on video game consoles and if so, are you currently playing? What level and how good are you? Do you think you could beat me head to head?
“No, unfortunately I can't find the time for any videogames, including ones involving UK.”
9) Favorite beverage and food item while watching UK play?
“Miller Lite and Buffalo Wings.”
10) Name one player from the football team and basketball team who you think will have a huge season in 07-08 and state why.
“I think Patrick Patterson will gave a great year, especially for a freshman. The reports about him this summer have been very positive. He apparently has a great work ethic and excellent leadership skills. UK is obviously undersized, so he should get a lot of playing time and bring down many rebounds.
Kind of the obvious answer, but I think Andre Woodson will have a huge season. He has so many offensive weapons returning from last year and I hope he handles the spotlight and pressure well. It's hard to believe UK has the best quarterback in the SEC and a heisman trophy candidate.”
Thanks Aaron for participating, much thanks. One thing I forgot to ask or add: Aaron, how do you stay on top of late breaking UK news so quickly? You the man!
LINK
· Aaron's UK Basketball Blog
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Today's custom image is a picture via UK Athletics as Giddyup takes the helm of UK Basketball. I thought the picture be fitting for my 300th post.
ON TAP LATER TODAY
Blog Interview: Aaron of Aaron's UK Hoops Blog
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Wildcats Thunder is probably … well IT IS the best forum covering Kentucky sports on the Internet. So good are the people there I don't even mess visiting other boards and it definitely makes AOL's UK message board look juvenile. But that's my opinion, if I were you, I'd go check out Wildcats Thunder Forum for yourself, then go check out the member-backed blog they have which is always full of insight and opinion - Wildcats Thunder Blog.
Wildcats Thunder was conceived by three geniuses in my opinion because they know how to run a message board in a professional and mature manner, Bigdaddy, Wrath, and Catmancando. I've talked with Bigdaddy and Wrath personally on a few occasions and I have to say these guys definitely have a strong will and passion to provide Kentucky related news and commentary to the average fan. Thunder Forum is a great place to check out news and inside info by qualified individuals who are connected with those in the know and the Thunder Blog just reiterates their passion for pushing the forum. Both great places to visit, especially once the season gets started. Wildcats Thunder is run by a great group of guys. You really couldn't meet a better staff put together on the net than at Wildcats Thunder. They are knowledgeable and insightful, and it's members bring the passion for it's beloved teams just like how Big Blue Nation is known for.
With that said, here's what Wildcats Thunder had to say in response to my 10 question interview.
1) Why did you get started with your blog/forum covering UK and has it been everything you'd hope it to be?
“Wrath, Catmancando, Fewfirstchoice & myself started Wildcats Thunder Forums to get away from some of the problems that was happening on other boards that we were members of. IMO, we felt that we could create something special for all UK fans to enjoy. We had all served as staff members before at other sites and had a little know how, the rest we learned as we went and are still learning. We had different ideas and wanted to see how they would do. We came together and decided to go for it and here we are now with over 2000 members in just over a year.
Now as for the Blog we wanted to do that to help drive our membership here at WT Forums and to offer the UK fans another way as to getting info on UK Sports. The Blog has turned into more than I thought it would and is doing great, we now receive emails asking if they can link the blog on other blog sites. The readers seem to enjoy the info that is posted there on Basketball,Football & Recruiting along with other news from the SEC or NCAA. I give credit to the WT STAFF for the success of the blog as they do most of the articles that is provided on the blog. Without them it wouldn't be going as good.”
Sktech(Staff Member):
“can't answer that one, but i sure am glad i found WT!”
2) What's your home-state and how did you become a UK fan?“Kentucky born, Family,Tradition”
Sktech(Staff Member):
“Kentucky is my home state, born and raised, will be here until I die--hopefully!”
3) What are your expectations going into the 07-08 football and basketball campaigns this season? Care to give predictions?“Basketball: I believe the UK can make the Sweet 16 this season and around 24-25 wins.
Football: I believe the UK can have the same record last season or maybe better with possibility of playing on News Years eve or New Years Day in a bowl game.”
Sktech(staff member):
“I expect the Cats to have a very similar season to the 2006 season. My ideal record is 7-5 with another bowl victory!”
4) Like I just had a dream where Rajon Rondo refused to give me his autograph after I coached one of his practices ... any weird and wacky dreams involving UK you care to admit to?“Dreamed I played on the 84 team with Bowie,Turpin,Walker.”
Sktech(staff member):
“None that I can think of, only shattered dreams during Tubby's era!”
5) If you were to rate BCG on his recruiting and coaching efforts thus far, based on a scale of 1-10, 10 being best, how would you rate his performance?“Recruiting efforts a 10 with no doubt.
Coaching at others schools 9, at UK I can't rate him as he hasn't coached his 1st game at UK.”
Sktech(staff member):
“Recruiting at KY: 10+, coaching at KY: not sure yet, but at other teams looks like an 8+ to me!”
6) Andre Woodson is a Heisman Hopeful going into this season and everyone's expecting big things from the best QB in the SEC, however, in your opinion is there anyone else on the roster you think deserves being mentioned in Heisman conversations also?“There could be, but I can't think of any.”
Sktech(staff member):
“I think the RB core could make some noise there. You also have a good returner that could get honorable mention!”
7) How many UK hats, t-shirts, and jerseys do you currently own?“Hats 3-4
T-shirts 7-8
Jersey 0”
Sktech(staff member):
“5 UK hats, 1 tony delk jersey, 3 Kentucky t-shirts!”
8) Do enjoy playing UK on video game consoles and if so, are you currently playing? What level and how good are you? Do you think you could beat me head to head?“When I play, Beginners, Depends”
Sktech(staff member):
“March Madness 2006, NCAA Football 2005 & 2007, and I always use UK. I currently have a QB who is a Heisman candidate! I love the Shotgun RB direct snap, so if you play me, be careful when I line up in the Shotgun!”
9) Favorite beverage and food item while watching UK play?“I don't eat during the game, but may drink a Diet Dr. Pepper or water.”
Sktech(staff member):
“Probably Sprite Zero or Diet Rite (since I don't do alcoholic beverages, no offense to others), Gotta have me some chips or pretzels, hotwings are nice too!”
10) Name one player from the football team and basketball team who you think will have a huge season in 07-08 and state why.“Football - Woodson, I wouldn't be surprised to a few others have a good season.
Basketball- Meeks, Jody began to come into his own late last season at the college level.”
Sktech(staff member):
“Football: Dicky Lyons, JR, It's just his time to shine! Basketball: Jodie Meeks and/or Alex Legion, no questions about it! Meeks is SO athletic, and Legion is going to be a threat in less than 2 seasons!”
Much thanks to Bigdaddy, Wrath, and Catmancando for participating in this little 10 question interview, and for Thunder staff member sktech for his contribution as well.
LINKS
· Wildcats Thunder
· Wildcats Thunder Blog
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Here is Go Big Blue Cats headed by Vic who generously gave of his time to answer my 10 questions yesterday and well, I'm glad and honored that he did. I noticed his blog last season as it's updated on a regular basis with lots of links and commentary and from the sounds of it we can expect even more this season. Here's what Vic had to say in reply to my email interview …
1) Why did you get started with your blog/forum covering UK and has it been everything you'd hope it to be?
“I've been a huge Kentucky basketball fan forever and thought HEY! Why not have a site about something you love.
I originally started a blog a few years back, but due to time with other things I unfortunately couldn't continue it.
I'm now back and so far everything been going smooth, but I do plan on sharing more thoughts of mine on the program and team.”
2) What's your home-state and how did you become a UK fan?“I was born and raised in Kentucky of all places. Can you believe that? Here's the kicker...it's Louisville, KY. Yes, I know. Being from Louisville and a UK fan I get asked quite a bit about this from out of stater's. For some reason people thinks it's strange. Here's what I tell them: Kentucky fans are all over.
If I look back, I probably should of been a fan of the other color. (It didn't happen of course) It's weird, growing up I was frequently around UofL basketball players.
First...There was Jerry Eaves, who I seen on a regular basis growing up.
Also when I was a youngster my Uncle would take me shooting down at the old gym at Louisville, where I would see the likes of Darrell Griffith etc.
Then, later on...I was always seeing players like Pervis Ellison, Felton Spencer, Robbie Valentine, Mark McSwain, Jeff Hall etc. Speaking of Valentine, he was always a great guy. He would sometimes shoot around with us kids, we thought that was the coolest thing.
Weird Huh?
Now about Kentucky...I think I started becoming more of a fan back in the Walker, Bowie, Turpin era. I really loved those teams back then and would try to be like Jim Master. (lol)
I also started to follow the team more because of Winston Bennett. (I could tell you a funny little story, but I'll save that). Winston and my Uncle are friends, and were also teammates at Male High. He ended up at Kentucky, so that was all cool to me.
My love for Kentucky basketball has grown stronger ever since. It's just one of them things that few people understand. Those TRUE BLUE fans know what I mean.”
3) What are your expectations going into the 07-08 football and basketball campaigns this season? Care to give predictions?“The majority of fan expectations for both will be high. (Probably more so with football this year) I look for big things from UK football and see them winning probably 8 games.
It will be interesting to see the mix of new guys and returning players. I expect the team to flow well with the likes of Patrick Patterson, Jodie Meeks, Bradley and Crawford. I see us competing for the SEC title and we should get a great seed going into the NCAA tourney.”
4) Like I just had a dream where Rajon Rondo refused to give me his autograph after I coached one of his practices ... any weird and wacky dreams involving UK you care to admit to?“Hmm, nothing really weird. I've had the dream that I was playing for UK and was a great player. That's the good things about dreams.”
5) If you were to rate BCG on his recruiting and coaching efforts thus far, based on a scale of 1-10, 10 being best, how would you rate his performance?“I think he's done well with recruiting, I would give him around a 9. For what's he been able to do coming in, and the short period of time, has been great. Landing Patrick Patterson was huge! He's also been able to make a statement to other coaches across the country. Also top players are taking notice of Big Blue again.
His coaching will have to wait, as he's not had one game yet. It will be interesting to see how everything works out, but I'm sure he'll do well.”
6) Andre Woodson is a Heisman Hopeful going into this season and everyone's expecting big things from the best QB in the SEC, however, in your opinion is there anyone else on the roster you think deserves being mentioned in Heisman conversations also?“Probably not, Woodson is the only one I see having the chance.”
7) How many UK hats, t-shirts, and jerseys do you currently own?“Wow! I have alot of Kentucky stuff, probably too much. (LOL) I like my Kentucky gear. I own a few hats and I try to rotate them out. Shirts are a different story...I simply have a closet full. One piece of gear that's my favorite, my leather Kentucky jacket. Also in my collection are numerous collectible and pieces of memorabilia.”
8) Do enjoy playing UK on video game consoles and if so, are you currently playing? What level and how good are you? Do you think you could beat me head to head?“I used to, when I had more time. I'm not much of a gamer anymore, but I've been known to lay the smackdown on others before.”
9) Favorite beverage and food item while watching UK play?“Chips, burgers and hotdogs are always good, along with a nice cold bottle of Corona.”
10) Name one player from the football team and basketball team who you think will have a huge season in 07-08 and state why.“I'm gonna be a homer and go with Andre Woodson. I feel he's gonna go out there and give 110% each game. He's knows the expectations and will want to meet or exceed those.
I was impressed last season by Jodie Meeks. I think he should be even better this season and could really have a breakout year. The guy is simply fun to watch.
I'm also looking forward to Patrick Patterson, he could very well have a monster year.”
Looks like Vic and I are on the same page with #8 & #9 except I'll take a Pepsi, ok, maybe one Bud Light. I'm not much of a drinker. :P.
Go Check out Go Big Blue Cats and pay him a comment as well. He's as up-to-date as anyone in the UK Blogosphere and will be one I'll be reading as the blogging season begins.
Much thanks to Vic and Go Big Blue Cats for taking part in my 10 question interview.
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Chris Diggs heads up the Courier-Journal UK Fan Blog, and I am most pleased to have this guy participate in my efforts to get UK Bloggers to answer my 10 question interview. Here's how Chris Diggs answered my questions, and Chris, thanks a bunch!
1) Why did you get started with your blog/forum covering UK and has it been everything you'd hope it to be?
“I got started writing the blog when someone told me The Courier-Journal was looking for a blogger. I contacted them, got the specifics, and began writing . So far, it has been great. I love interacting with people and seeing both the praise and criticism people give me for things I write. Where else can I write and have people from all over the country read and email me.”
2) What's your home-state and how did you become a UK fan?“I was born in Louisville, moved around a bit, came back and then left again. Six years ago, I moved back to the area. I guess the best way to answer this is to just say it was sort of a birthright. It was just one of the things you were at birth in my family. I may have been put up for adoption if I would have chose to wear the red and black.”
3) What are your expectations going into the 07-08 football and basketball campaigns this season? Care to give predictions?“I have very high expectations for the 2007 football program. I wrote in my blog the other day that I could see the Cats going 8-4 this year. Of course, I am horrible at predictions and they could go 4-8, but this is the first real SEC team we have had in years.
As for basketball, I have no idea. I think it will be a fun brand of basketball. I see them in the mold of the Golden State Warriors from last season. They did not have a dominant big man but ran teams to death. I think Kentucky can have a surprising season if Ramel Bradley and Joe Crawford can successfully lead. They are the heart of this team and they must step up to the challenge. I can see Kentucky around the number three spot in the SEC East with Tennessee winning the division.”
4) Like I just had a dream where Rajon Rondo refused to give me his autograph after I coached one of his practices ... any weird and wacky dreams involving UK you care to admit to?“Not really, but I am horrible at remembering dreams.”
5) If you were to rate BCG on his recruiting and coaching efforts thus far, based on a scale of 1-10, 10 being best, how would you rate his performance?“Recruiting, I would give him a 9 just because 10 is too hard to give right now. He has gotten Kentucky's name in the mix with a ton of the top players that we were not in on before he came. His 2008 and 2009 classes will be huge in determining his success as a recruiter. As a coach, I cannot answer that. He has not even had the opportunity to be on the floor with his players yet. it will be interesting to see what kind of shape he has them in come late November.”
6) Andre Woodson is a Heisman Hopeful going into this season and everyone's expecting big things from the best QB in the SEC, however, in your opinion is there anyone else on the roster you think deserves being mentioned in Heisman conversations also?“I think Andre' is your only Heisman candidate. With that, I think Kennan Burton could easily raise some eyebrows and be in contention with Early Doucet (LSU) for top receiver in the conference and nation.”
7) How many UK hats, t-shirts, and jerseys do you currently own?“Hats and shirts are my thing along with shorts. I am one of those guys though that is really picky about the UK gear I buy. I stick with the Nike stuff because some of the off-brand stuff is plain ugly. As far as how many, I have a ton. I could wear UK clothing everyday if I wanted.”
8) Do enjoy playing UK on video game consoles and if so, are you currently playing? What level and how good are you? Do you think you could beat me head to head?“I have so little time to play games but I do play with UK on NCAA 08 . I probably cannot beat you because I play so little.”
9) Favorite beverage and food item while watching UK play?“Interestingly enough, I usually do not eat during games. I have season tickets to both football and basketball, so before football games, we tailgate with enough food for a small country, and before basketball games, we hit up Sawyer's, which is a great place across the street from Rupp. So, by the time I get to the game, I'm not hungry at all.”
10) Name one player from the football team and basketball team who you think will have a huge season in 07-08 and state why.“Huge season from football and only one. I want to go against the common answers and pick Rafael Little. He is finally healthy and I hope ready to roll. For basketball, I think Jodie Meeks will be a star. I love this kids game. he needs to make some better decisions, but he is non-stop all of the time. he was a great get by Tubby Smith.”
Go check out Chris Diggs and see what he's saying. The Wildcat Blog would like to thank Chris for taking time to answer these questions.
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Football season is upon us folks and well, you know I've stated before that I'm all about community here at the Wildcat Blog, so I decided to survey some of my favorite UK bloggers on the Internet so we all get a sense of who they are. Who knows maybe we'll come together sometime soon and get a podcast going for the UK Blogosphere - at least that's a vision I'd like to see happen.
First up is by far the best Pro-UK blog on the internet, A Sea of Blue, and when my man Truz accepted my invitation for this email interview I was all giddyup'd inside. In fact, I was so blown away by his answers, it's going to be a tough act to follow. But that's Truz for ya, no one does a better job at getting you to think than A Sea of Blue. It's a great blog that keeps on ticking even through the off season and they continue to be a voice for Kentucky fans throughout. Here's what Truz from ASoB had to say …
1) Why did you get started with your blog/forum covering UK and has it been everything you'd hope it to be?
“Quite by accident, really. I had been participating in the political blog scene for many years, but had recently burned out because it just got so filled with rancor. I found a UK blog called "Bogan's Heroes" run by my co-blogger, JL Blue. I was a commenter there for a while, and then JL joined SB Nation, a new sports blog network as owner and operator of A Sea of Blue.
I started commenting on ASoB, and offering diaries. One fine day back in December of last year, JL asked me to become a co-blogger on a part-time basis, which I was happy to do. After I learned the ropes, JL advised me that he had many positive changes happening in his life, and it was becoming too full for him to continue to run the blog, and he asked me to take it over. As the old saying goes, the rest is history. JL and I have essentially switched roles -- him part time, and me the full time blogger/owner.
JL developed this blog into what you see now. When I came on, almost all the hard work had already been done by him. He is the true creative force and mastermind behind ASoB, and I just hope I can live up to his vision.”
2) What's your home-state and how did you become a UK fan?
“I call Kentucky my home state, but I was born in Abingdon, Virginia and lived in Bristol, Tennessee until I was about 12. My family then moved to Shelbyville, Kentucky where my father was from, and he still lives there. I went to school at Western Kentucky and after a six-year stint as a US Navy submariner, I moved back to Jeffersontown, Kentucky, where I reside to this day.
I have been a UK fan since I was 13 or 14. You don't have to live in Kentucky long, especially as a kid, before you are exposed to the basketball tradition of the state, and the reason behind its basketball obsession. Coming from Tennessee, I was all about football when I got here -- basketball goals were a rare thing in Tennessee back yards.
But it didn't take long watching Jimmy Dan Connor, Kevin Grevey et. al. before I became a huge UK fan. I remember when those guys signed as freshmen, because I delivered the Courier-Journal and, back then, the Louisville Times for all my childhood years in Kentucky, and you can't help but read the headlines when you are a paperboy.
Some may think it odd that I am a UK blogger who never went to UK, but back in those days, State U was just a little to pricey and huge for me. U of L was too close to home, which left the smaller schools. I had some friends going to Western, so that's where I went, but even there, I would say I saw as many UK basketball games as I did Western ones. I'll never forget laying around in my best friend's apartment after a big party night and watching the 1978 national championship game.
My brother went to UK and graduated from there, but he isn't even close to as big a UK fan as I am (go figure). I still love the Hilltopers, but the Wildcats are like your first sweetheart -- nothing can ever quite match it.”
3) What are your expectations going into the 07-08 football and basketball campaigns this season? Care to give predictions?
“Like most Kentucky fans, I expect our team to be improved over last year. The addition of Patrick Patterson, Alex Legion and AJ Stewart and the maturation of Jodie Meeks, Perry Stevenson, Ramon Harris and Derek Jasper aught to provide a strong base from which this team can be effective. Along with returning seniors Ramel Bradley and Joe Crawford, I expect us to battle Tennessee for tops in the East, and the overall conference regular season crown.
I don't think I'll make many predictions just yet, but I will make two: a) Patrick Patterson will be better than many UK fans expect, and b) We will get much better than an 8 or 9 seed in the NCAA tournament.”
4) Like I just had a dream where Rajon Rondo refused to give me his autograph after I coached one of his practices ... any weird and wacky dreams involving UK you care to admit to?
“I once dreamed I showed Joe Crawford how to shoot the basketball. Naturally, he was unstoppable after that.” :-)
5) If you were to rate BCG on his recruiting and coaching efforts thus far, based on a scale of 1-10, 10 being best, how would you rate his performance?
“I can't rate his coaching, because quite frankly, he has not coached one minute at UK. During the time he has been at Kentucky, he has been largely forbidden by NCAA rules to do anything other than recruiting and administrative tasks. So I'll have to save my evaluation of his coaching until he actually does some.
Recruiting-wise, I'll have to give him a 10, and here is why: Any coach that follows another in the middle of recruiting, doesn't lose a single committed recruit or current player and manages to overcome perceptions and convince our most coveted recruit to come in spite of the coaching change deserves nothing less. As far as the rest of his recruiting is concerned since Patterson's signing, I am very satisfied. But he gets a 10 just for landing Patterson and not loosing any of the team members -- it was a huge task that I didn't believe he would pull off. Needless to say, I am happy he did.”
6) Andre Woodson is a Heisman Hopeful going into this season and everyone's expecting big things from the best QB in the SEC, however, in your opinion is there anyone else on the roster you think deserves being mentioned in Heisman conversations also?
“Really, I don't. Keenan Burton, you have to think, would be the nearest other Kentucky player to be mentioned, and If the stars align correctly, I suppose he could get a mention or two. But it's hard to imagine a scenario in which he gets mentioned above Woodson.
Frankly, neither of them are serious candidates for the trophy. But to hear any Wildcat mentioned at all in connection with the Heisman is a wonderful thing.”
7) How many UK hats, t-shirts, and jerseys do you currently own?
“Many. I don't really even know how many. My wife has at least twice what I do. Between us, maybe 75 or 100 or so pieces of UK logo apparel.”
8) Do enjoy playing UK on video game consoles and if so, are you currently playing? What level and how good are you? Do you think you could beat me head to head?
“Not anymore. I used to love it when I was younger, and I was above average. But I am an old, crotchety curmudgeon now. :-) I spend all my spare time blogging or golfing.”
9) Favorite beverage and food item while watching UK play?
“Beverage: Ice cold Budweiser. Food? Who notices food during a UK game? I would have to take my eyes off the game to locate food, and in our house, that doesn't happen. At halftime, maybe a sandwich or some chips, pizza or something. Beer is important. Food is for before, or after.” :-)
10) Name one player from the football team and basketball team who you think will have a huge season in 07-08 and state why.
“Football: Raphael Little. I think now that he is fully healthy, he is going to have a huge year if Joker Phillips actually has a brain. With the constant Wooson-Burton threat, you have to figure that there will be lots of opportunities for Little, especially during the SEC season. The key will be keeping the defense off balance by mixing up the pass and the run, and if UK does that, Little will have an All-SEC season.
Basketball: Ramon Harris. He is credibly rumored by many to be vastly improved, and nobody in the SEC could pick him out of a lineup even if he were the only person over 6' tall in it. They won't be ready for him, and he will show us all why he was recruited.”
Much thanks goes to Truzenzuzex of ASoB for participating.
Please go check out A Sea of Blue and pay him a comment or two.
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This Sunday Morning via the Brett Dawson of the Courier-J, I was treated not so much by the article but by the player survey asking a selected number of Cats who was their favorite QB to watch growing up. While Marino and Favre popped up, Randall Cunningham came up twice, and from the lips of Wesley Woodyard, he loved to play him in Tecmo Bowl.
“I would run with him on Tecmo Bowl, and then to see him on TV, it was great. I was little, and I didn't know too much about the game of football, but I knew something about Randall Cunningham. He could run and make plays.”
Yo, here's something sick to think about: At the time when I was into Tecmo Bowl (no one could beat me), I was around, what, maybe 15, 16 years old. That puts Woodyard around and estimated 5 or 6 years old. Imagine a 6 year old Woodyard playing Tecmo Bowl. That's a sick sight.
In fact Tecmo Bowl wasn't the only game I played during the pre-Madden era. Here are some others which you might remember:
· Sports Talk Football
· Joe Montana Football
· Super Play Action Football
(Super Play Action Football with the famous diagonal field play)
· Tecmo Bowl
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Misc.,
Wesley Woodyard
Could Woodson have become a 2 sport college athlete? One thing is for sure, via amnews, Woodson decided to play QB after his high school coach threw him in to take a look.
“My high school coach got a look at my arm and tried me out there (at quarterback). Football was not even my main love. It was basketball. I was pretty good at it. But being 6-5 and having a good, strong arm, it was better to play football. The odds were better that I could make into the NFL than the NBA at that height. So I decided to just concentrate more on football and just play one sport in college.”Of course TWB is glad he stuck it out and chose football. The kid is Heisman material this year. And besides, at 6-5, there wouldn't be much room for him on the basketball team right as it stands, but then again, anyone know what kinda talent he was with the rock? With a strong arm, at least we'd know he'd be an excellent in-bounder.
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Andre Woodson
I found this pic over at 12th manchild while surfing …
clearly it's widely known now that Billy G actually does rock, just don't go collaborating with Smooth huh Giddyup?
Please.
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Billy Gillispie
I sense an urgency from Braxton Kelley, almost as if he's afraid of losing his spot to Micah Johnson since injuring his ankle a couple weeks ago. With that said, Braxton is one of my favorite guys on the defensive side of the ball and he's had time over the couple weeks to observe the D and here's what he's had to say concerning Micah and the much improved D I just can't wait to see!
LINK,
“I am glad Micah is getting better, but I plan on getting better, too. I look at it as two positives. It hurts me right now not getting to play and that is a negative. But as long as I come in and prove that I can play, everything should be OK, especially with the way Micah has played.”
and,
“The defense is looking a lot better and improving. They are playing faster and a lot of people know what they are doing now. I think we have more room to improve, but we are on the right track,” …
(Concerning the D-Line) “That makes a linebacker's job to fill gaps and make tackles for loss a lot easier because double teams not getting to us. As the D-line gets better, you will see the whole team get better.”
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Braxton Kelley,
Kentucky Football
LINK:
“I want to be a Wesley Woodyard kind of guy. I want to be a guy that's all over the field. Every single time there's a play, I want to be in the shot. I want to be there. I want to create pressure, havoc, double teams. I want it to get to the point where teams are going to have to chip (block) me to keep me from getting to the quarterback.”I'm getting exciiiiiited - how bout you? Big season bout to start, and this blog has been in hibernation long enough!
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Jeremy Jarmon,
Kentucky Football
Via FH, seems like our boy smooth did a collaboration with a kid in Lexington whom I've never heard of, and in fact, I wish I never heard of this collaboration after hearing it.
Ryan Ferguson--“Musically speaking, I'm not generally a fan of taking a strummy guitar and vocals track, then mixing in a dude riffing on the lyrics.””
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Ramel Bradley
Via Wildcats Thunder, you know cuz I'm a member and most importantly a Thunder fan, comes this article on how “under the radar” Rafael Little is flying currently and Little himself doesn't seem to mind at all …
“It doesn't bother me at all. I wasn't coming back this year expecting all that. Now, we've got a lot of (good) guys. I like that. I never wanted to be on the covers by myself.”
In fact, Mark Story points out in this article the correlation between the lack of the running game in the first six games to the 121 yd per game average the last six games and going 5-1. Not only that but Little's numbers were season highs also in terms of carries and catches during the last six games - and it doesn't take anyone smarter than a 5th grader to possibly consider that Little's presence had something to do with at least the last 4 of their last six games on the sched last season, even in the close loss to Tennessee. Anyone who watches Little knows he adds a powerful presence to Kentucky and lightening speed and he has to game planned for, and if a season long healthy Little is on tap this season and an improved defense, I'm expecting Little to average 20+ carries a game. At least the kid should, and I'm a bit pissed off that I waited an hour and half+ in line for Woodson's autograph and came up empty when I probably could have gotten his. But what do you do, like it's been said, Woodson's the cover boy this year. And it bids well for Little this year too, Joker Phillips is hoping for some long drives to rest his defense this upcoming season …
“I'd like that number to be 175, 180 yards a game rushing. One thing we had to rely on last year was big plays. I'd like to have some 14-, 15-, 16-play drives. Then our defense can sit over there and drink Gatorade.”
That's what I'm sayin'.
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Kentucky Football,
Rafael Little
Sav Rocca is his name and he plays for the Eagles and unfortunately gets jacked up hard by the Ravens in their preseason game. It's not just being "jacked up", I'm not sure there's a word out to describe the hit he took other than to say he got effed on the field. Let's call him Sav(e) Rocca cuz the kid needs saving man. Messed up. Here's the vid,
Here's some enlightening commentary starting at around the 1:08 mark of the vid …
He's effffffffffing commmmming!
or, turrrrrn your efffffing heeeead!!!
As SS would say, kid got jacked up, got up, and walked over to the sidelines to have some pancakes cuz he thought he was at iHop.
I have no idea what that means.
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NFL
Vandy returns nine offensive starters and eight defensively. Last year Vandy played Kentucky fairly close in a high scoring affair in which the Wildcats won 38-26. Interesting, Kentucky leads this series 38-37-1. Vandy finished the season last year 4-8 and this year the expectations in Nashville are a little higher given since they rose above expectations last year. That said, this should be one of those sleeper games in which if Kentucky is caught sleeping, Vandy could very steal this one in an upset. However, 'Believe in Blue' seems to be the campaign slogan for the Cats in 07, so expectations from this side are to beat teams they're supposed to and upset at least one or two we haven't in a very long time. Here are my fantasy picks …
Woodson: 250, 2TDs
Little: 125, 2TDs
Burton: 85 TD
Lyons: 80 TD
Tamme: 40
K: 2 FGs
DEF: 5 sacks, fum, 2 int's
FINAL SCORE: Kentucky 34 Vandy 20
Georgia
On the other hand, Georgia is looking to avenge last year's loss to Kentucky. Sophomore QB Matthew Stafford closed the season last in his freshman campaign last year with three straight wins over Auburn, Georgia Tech, and Virginia Tech, so this year's matchup will be one which the Bulldogs will come out firing from the get go to respond convincingly to Kentucky's upset win against them. This could be a game in which Kentucky might have to fight hard to come from behind to win. Both teams are confident and it should be one heck of a game to watch. By this time in schedule, Woodson and company should be in their prime and ready to clinch bowl eligibility if they haven't already. This will be a game in which Georgia will be looking to answer back and Kentucky will be looking to prove last year's upset win wasn't a fluke to begin with.
Woodson:200, 2TDs
Little: 70 rush, TD, 40 rec
Tamme: 65 TD
Burton:70
Lyons:45 TD
K: FG
DEF: 4 sacks, int
FINAL SCORE:Georgia 30 UK 24
Tennessee
Last year Tennessee came away lucky with a 17-12 vict over Kentucky. This season the Vols lose two of their starting WRs and two left side lineman on offense. They return seven and five, offense and defense respectively. They return both their starting DEs but lost their inside Ts and Fulmer is worried about “our defensive front and becoming the kind of defensive front we are accustomed to being” (ref. Cat's Pause Mag). I think this is a game Kentucky can steal at the end of the season, especially if a bowl berth is on the line. Tennessee leads this series 70-23-9, and Kentucky is looking to finally clinch a win against these guys.
Woodson: 275, TD
Little:60 rush, 40 rec
Tamme: 65 TD
Burton: 95
Lyons: 70
K: 2 FGs
DEF: 2 sacks, fum, int
FINAL SCORE: Kentucky 13 Tennesee 10
Recap
All said and done, I've predicted ten wins for Kentucky. Although this is highly optimistic, a few wins could be losses: L'ville, Ark, SC, FL, and Tenn. That would make the season 5-7 for Kentucky instead. It's a tough sched, but I really believe when Rich Brooks says this is the best football team he's had here, and I really believe L'ville will be the toughest to get the win and that Ark, Sc, FL, and Tenn will be wins because we really do have a good team this year. It could be a season of historic measures.
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Fantasy Predictions
This post falls into one of those miscellaneous categories but you can't blame me for being a sports fan. Because of a slow period for Kentucky action, it has caused me a mild form of a)writers block (not funny) and b) to find something to write about. Case in point, this post. We at the Wildcat blog are sports fans and follow other teams in other sports, in fact, we love the nfl which is what this post is about. From time to time you might find our ramblings on non-kentucky items, that and trying to get rid of this writers block. With that said, let the curse begin. The Madden Curse.
Seems like everyone's favorite new QB got in a scuffle and threw a punch at his teammate. Asked about throwing a punch, Young responded with, “That's bad. That's bad. That's real bad.” That's all he's quoted with saying that's worth part of the story? That that's bad? My eight year old nephew knows better and could probably write a book on why. That's bad. Yeah, after the fact, right Vince? I don't get how these player's attitudes on the field, the bad ones we hear about constantly, have slowly become accepted behavior in what was once a highly respectable sport. Asked about the incident, head coach Jeff Fisher replied, “My preference is not to see my quarterback throwing punches with his throwing hand. Secondly, we need to avoid the stuff on the field, and hey, it happens. Everything is OK. Right?”
WTH! I scratch my head, yo. I don't know about you, but my preference is having these million dollar athletes act like freaking grown adults on the field and not throw a single punch at each other, Mr. Fisher. And no, it's not OK. The moment you let your players believe this type of behavior is acceptable the more often it will occur.
I expect more incidents like this to occur in Tennessee. Not because I think Jeff Fisher allows such nonsense in his practices to go on no less, but because perhaps if your a Vince Young fan, your man is on the cover of Madden, which can't be a good thing. The curse lasts long. Just ask Michael Vick about that right now. First it's throwing punches, second is an injury maybe, third it may be some kind of legal trouble. In any case, if you're a bettor, I wouldn't be putting my money all on Tennessee anytime soon as long as Vince is there. Throwing punches is idiotic man, especially for a freakin' millionaire. The guy has no idea how lucky he is. So why did he do it anyways, he's a grown adult right? I know why. The curse. The Madden Curse.
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LINK, Via Mark Story and a Rondo article on how the magician must find a jump shot, we find that the Kentucky men's basketball has given out new numbers to the following players …
Patterson #54
Legion #1
AJ Stewart #15
M. Williams #25
Porter #13
Meeks #23
Harris #34
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Days like these have been excruciating from a fan perspective during this off season which is why the lack of entries and my writer's block. Ha ha. Not funny. Anyways, here's some linkage to fill UR belly … and a afternoon music vid
· I don't pay for needless things, but apparently Larry Vaught has some NFL advice for Burton.
· Marcus McClinton says there won't be another music video this year. Waaaaa!!! And here I thought McClinton and company had something good goin' on. They did but it's just a one time thang. Waaaaaa!!!
· Via Slam Online, Kobe Bryant was seen trying to party at Ontourage nightclub in Chicago but he was being 'obnoxious'. LMAO. Also from Slam Online, Matt Jones ain't the only one optimistic about the Celtics next season. And finally from Slam Online, our boy Chuck Hayes just agreed to stay a Rocket with a four year deal, yo!
· And finally, speaking of Chuck Hayes, KSR posts a link to a commercial that is running in China that has Hayes touting 'Fundamentals' along with big man Shaq. Check it out.
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#1 Seriously, how much does Eli really suck?
#2 Do you have any dogs and how many?
#3 Ever been accused of cock-fighting?
#4 Among Aqua man, Robin, and one of the Wonder Twins, which one are you?
#5 What's on your iPod?; 30 gig or 80 gig?
#6 How often do you get a chance to visit Lexington?
#7 Doesn't Tom Coughlin look like a reindeer come Christmas time?
#8 Did you get hazed your first year in New York, what happened?
#9 Jolly rancher, Now N Later, or Sour Balls?
#10 Given an opportunity to appear on any reality show, which one?
BONUS: Are you smarter than a 5th grader?; and Discuss your score on the Wonderlic Test.
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Here are some links worth reading this morning …
· Barnhart says schedule's (football) a tall order.
· Gillispie admits early committments are a risk, “The younger the player, the greater the risk, for the player and the school. There's obviously the risk of injury, physical development, skill development.” - Gillispie.
· A year and a half, that's what Gillispie says it takes to feel comfortable at a new job. That would make mid-January of 2009 the deadline for which Kentucky fans will see the real Gillispie and what he's all about (in terms of coaching live games).
· DeMoss accepts becoming an assistant women's basketball coach at Texas. Says DeMoss stepping down from Kentucky, “I needed a break from the day-to-day grind. I needed to step away.” We here at the Wildcat Blog understand how she feels.
· We like a little NFL action here too from time to time, and well, Going For 8 knocks us up (lol) with a fantasy preview of the top running backs in the league.
· Head coach Rich Brooks predicts Kentucky will not only make it to a bowl game, but also make some noise in the conference race.
“It would be disingenuous for me to say we didn't have a good football team because we do. We just have to go out and prove it on the field and beat people we haven't beaten.”
· KC Ross-Miller has no regrets about committing to Kentucky early, however the most interesting thing is Willie Warren says KC can play!
“When he is out there with us, we have a lot of confidence that he is going to make good decisions with the basketball. He can handle dribble in traffic and I know if I get open, he is going to get the ball to me.”
· RUMOR via Slam Online: Kevin Durant didn't play cuz his mom told him not to.
“The new rumor was that Kevin Durant would not be attending because his mother didn't want him to risk injury; "technical difficulties," was the official explanation given to the media.”
· Jared Lorenzen will be on the Sports Mob today. :::praying for a download clip of show, crossing fingers::: I love the Sports Mob when they have guys I want to hear from. And Matt Jones, if you haven't heard him, has the best down home southern radio voice around. He's by far quickly becoming a personality of his own, and I ain't just sayin that cuz I want a clip of J-Lo. Well, maybe so. LoL. Hook me up Matt!
· Also, Matt Jones is highly optimistic that our man, the magician, Rajon Rondo will light. It. Up. Next year.
“Get ready for our man Rajon Rondo's stock to absolutely soar over the next year. In a manner similar to Tayshaun Prince, Rondo has fallen into a perfect situation on a team that is about to rise considerably in the rankings. With the acquisition of Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and the decision to keep Paul Pierce, Rondo will now likely start for a team that could be headed toward the Eastern Conference Finals. On a team full of superstars, Rondo can do what he does best, focus on defense and creation for his teammates. However, unfortunately he will not likely be able to do what the Celtics may need him most to do…..hit the open jumper. Nevertheless, Rondo will rise in the nation's collective basektball consciousness over the year and that can only help his alma mater….the Cats.”
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Score: 31-14 Kentucky
Woodson: 350 yds, 2 TD
Little: 110, TD, 40 rec
Tamme: 50 yds
Burton: 100, TD
Lyons: 60 TD
K: FG
DEF: 14 pts allowed, 5 sacks, int, 2 fumbles
Miss St. will have 6 home and 6 away and return 9 offensive and only 5 defensive starters. The Wildcats could catch them sleeping as the Bulldogs will have played Tennessee and on road against WVU before playing, and after our game they have Alabama so it could be possible that Kentucky could face a very demoralized football team by then. If not, Miss St. still could be banged up a bit knowing they have Alabama after us and we might just catch them looking ahead and not focusing 100 percent on the game. By this time in the season Kentucky should be looking good and playing well, and we will know what they are capable of doing this year by then. I'm expecting a big game out of Woodson here.
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Via KSR, Tim Couch inks a 2 yr deal with the Jaguars just in time for preseason workouts. Congrats to Couch for finding a home back in the NFL. Truly worth following the Jags in the preseason.
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I admit, I'm one of those UK fans who's overly optimistic each and every season despite what the naysayers predict on paper or on the air. I like to think that Kentucky would run the table every year, but I ain't that stupid. I know deep down there are going to be wins no one expects and there are going to be losses no one could ever fathom the thought of. This year Kentucky's post presence will be fresh and while we haven't yet seen what a Patrick Patterson can do in a Kentucky uni I have to be optimistic he's going to be a replaceable threat to Randolph Morris. I have to believe that Billy Gillispie will have these Cats up and running and I have to believe that Ramel Bradley and Joe Crawford will step up and provide senior leadership and results on the hardwood as any reasonable Kentucky fan should expect.
Kentucky's sched came out yesterday and well, here's my preseason take on it.
Key Losses
Dec 1 North Carolina
Dec 8 @ Indiana
Jan 22 Tenn
Mar 2 @ Tenn
Yes, I expect to be swept by Tennessee this year. I think Indiana is a game no one thinks of losing but it's possible on the road. All these losses are key games for Kentucky, and it's not to say they won't win any of these games, I'm just expecting losses.
Ok, looking at the schedule, Kentucky has one whale of a month in January, and of course it's a key month this season.
Month of the Year: January
5th L'ville, optimistically: win, realistically: loss
12th Vandy, optim: win, realist: win
15th @ Miss St., optim: win, realist: win
19th @ Florida, optim: win, realist: loss
22nd Tenn, optim: win, realist: loss
26th SC, optim: win, realist: win
Optimistically I'd like to see these kids go 6-0, but come on, for real that ain't gonna happen. Realistically the Cats could go 3-3 with losses to Louisville, Florida, and Tennessee, so somewhere in the middle of the road is where I will predict a 4-2 record in the month of January with a win vs Louisville and loss to Florida on the road and a loss to Tennessee in Rupp Arena.
Important Stretch of Games
Kentucky early on their schedule I feel has an important stretch of games which are crucial to the momentum Gillispie will be trying to build his team with. Realistically Kentucky is going to lose to North Carolina, so the following games are important, including the UNC game (to win it first of all), to rebound in case of a loss to UNC …
Dec 1 UNC
Dec 8 @ Indiana
Dec 15UAB
Dec 18 @ Houston
Non-Conference
There are two tough games on the non-conference sched for the Wildcats: UNC and Indiana (excluding the Hoops Classic). The rest should be, SHOULD BE, wins. Maybe not convincing wins, but Kentucky should and are expected to pull out those wins.
Key Stretch of Conference Games
Feb 12- March 5 {7 games}
@ Vandy, optim: win, realist: loss
@ LSU, optim:win, realist: win
Georgia, optim: win, realist: win
Arkansas, optim: win, realist: win
Ole Miss, optim: win, realist: win
@ Tenn, optim: loss, realist: loss
@ SC, optim: win, realist: loss
Optimistically: 6-1, Realistically: 4-3
Vandy, Tennessee, and South Carolina could all be losses this late in the season if Kentucky isn't focused and playing well. Tennessee is practically a lock for a loss for Kentucky while Vandy and SC tend to play us hard on the road in their house, so it's somewhere between four and six wins during this stretch and I would bank on around five wins and two losses. Those two losses likely being Tennessee and Vanderbilt - both on the road for Kentucky.
In addition to what I've layed out of my expectations this season thus far, there are also unexpected disappointing losses which occur almost every season. It's just bound to happen and it's very hard to predict which is why I'm going to try to predict which games are going to be disappointing losses for Kentucky this upcoming season.
Disappointing Losses
Jan 15 @ Miss St.
Feb 6 @ Auburn
Feb 12 @ Vandy
March 5 @ SC
No big surprise these unexpected losses might occur on the road. Vandy I have slated for a loss already and accounted for already in my final predictions, but nonetheless is disappointing.
So with that said, realistically I'm looking at an 18-9 (9-7) season for Kentucky. Optimistically, I'm looking at a 22-5 (13-3) season - all excluding the Hoops Classic Tourny in the beginning of the season. So somewhere between these two records is likely where Kentucky will end up for the season I feel.
The Wildcat Blog's Hoops Expectations
Wins: Between 18-22
Losses: Between 5-9
So I feel Kentucky is destined to earn at least 18 wins and at the most 9 losses for their upcoming campaign for their eighth national title. Lastly, all of the games I have slated for losses are key games for Kentucky. Not to say they'll definitely win or lose but they're key to Kentucky's success this year. There are nine games I have down for losses (possible losses). DL=Disappointing Loss.
KEY GAMES
Dec 1 UNC
Dec 8 @ Indiana
Jan 15 @ Miss St (DL)
Jan 19 @ Florida
Jan 22 Tenn
Feb 6 @ Auburn (DL)
Feb 12 @ Vandy (DL)
March 2 @ Tenn
March 5 @ SC (DL)
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