There's not much more to do before the Packers officially pick up their 13th victory of the season. As a team, the Packers have topped the 200-yard mark rushing. Ryan Grant left early with a stinger and didn't get back in to reach the 1,000-yard mark for the season, but Brandon Jackson has had a respectable performance. He's rushed 20 times for 113 yards -- the first 100-yard game of the rookie's career.
Jackson, a second-round draft pick out of Nebraska who entered the season looking to be the Packers' No. 1 running back, seems to be running with a sense of urgency -- like a guy who realizes someone else has stepped up and solidified the starting spot. The Lions haven't exactly been dominant this afternoon either, but I'm sure Jackson will take whatever he can get at this point.
The Lions never made it to the 10-win mark predicted by QB Jon Kitna, and judging by how the Packers' backups took it to them today, the Lions might have some serious personnel evaluting to do this offseason.
Newsflash: Kitna just overthrew another open receiver in the end zone. By my count, that's at least three times he's missed a touchdown opportunity.
If you stuck it out through the entirity of this regular-season finale, I appreciate your dedication. Check out Monday's Leader-Telegram for some more insight and notes from today's game. I'm all hopped up on Vault soda, so hopefully, I won't fall asleep on the drive home. Best wishes in 2008, everyone.
-Justin Harings
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Packers 31, Lions 13 (End Q3)
The pass-happy Lions managed to stretch an uneventful third quarter to the maximum, giving Craig Nall a decent number of snaps under center. So far, the reviews are mixed. Nall looked poised at times, stepping up in the pocket and hitting WR Ruvell Martin for a 32-yard scoring pass. He also looked rattled at times, fumbling two routine exchanges from C Scott Wells.
Many of the defensive substitutes are in, but regular players are missing opportunities for the Packers. FS Aaron Rouse dropped a Jon Kitna pass that was severely underthrown and absolutely gift-wrapped for him. Later in the third, SS Atari Bigby whiffed on a tipped pass in the Packers' end zone. While this game means little, those are potential game-changing plays that could make a big difference in the playoffs.
OL Junius Coston (calf) is questionable to retun.
Well, the Packers are well on their way in this one. Some fans have even hit the doors already. It seems the Lions did so quite some time ago.
-Justin Harings
Many of the defensive substitutes are in, but regular players are missing opportunities for the Packers. FS Aaron Rouse dropped a Jon Kitna pass that was severely underthrown and absolutely gift-wrapped for him. Later in the third, SS Atari Bigby whiffed on a tipped pass in the Packers' end zone. While this game means little, those are potential game-changing plays that could make a big difference in the playoffs.
OL Junius Coston (calf) is questionable to retun.
Well, the Packers are well on their way in this one. Some fans have even hit the doors already. It seems the Lions did so quite some time ago.
-Justin Harings
Packers 21, Lions 10 (Halftime)
After Brett Favre hit TE Bubba Franks, who was standing still at the front of the end zone, for a 3-yard touchdown pass less than a minute into the second quarter, there wasn't a whole lot of other activity. Many of the Packers regular starters that suited up and played early are now out of the game, including Favre. He didn't get out before throwing for 99 yards and two TDs, though. Craig Nall has taken over under center.
On the injury front, RG Jason Spitz (quadriceps) is questionable to return, and CB Will Blackmon (foot) is doubtful.
Otherwise, the halftime entertainment today is a speed painter, performing to a random assortment of '90s music. Really. He's actually quite good, and he seems to be a big hit with the fans -- and those in the press box not fully focused on their bratwurst. Turns out he's painting Packers WR Donald Driver. It's quite good, too.
If anything notable happens on the field in the second half, I'll check back.
-Justin Harings
On the injury front, RG Jason Spitz (quadriceps) is questionable to return, and CB Will Blackmon (foot) is doubtful.
Otherwise, the halftime entertainment today is a speed painter, performing to a random assortment of '90s music. Really. He's actually quite good, and he seems to be a big hit with the fans -- and those in the press box not fully focused on their bratwurst. Turns out he's painting Packers WR Donald Driver. It's quite good, too.
If anything notable happens on the field in the second half, I'll check back.
-Justin Harings
Packers 14, Lions 3 (End Q1)
For those of you still holding your breath after Packers RB Ryan Grant left the game with 6 minutes, 11 seconds to go in the quarter, go ahead and exhale.
We were told he suffered a stinger, and his return will be up to coach Mike McCarthy. He's drawing closer to the 1,000-yard mark for the season, but McCarthy has to decide if that milestone is worth risking an injury to the Packers' featured rusher. I know that 1,000 is important, but can McCarthy really take that risk at this point?
Quick hits:
*K Mason Crosby set the Packers' single-season scoring record for kickers only with his first extra point of the day, which gave him 132 points this season.
*As I type, we've had a Bubba Franks siting. He just caught a 3-yard touchdown pass from Brett Favre. Make it 21-3.
*Speaking of Favre, his 21-yard scamper in the first quarter was his longest run from scrimmage since 1998.
*Koren Robinson's touchdown reception was his first with the Packers.
-Justin Harings
We were told he suffered a stinger, and his return will be up to coach Mike McCarthy. He's drawing closer to the 1,000-yard mark for the season, but McCarthy has to decide if that milestone is worth risking an injury to the Packers' featured rusher. I know that 1,000 is important, but can McCarthy really take that risk at this point?
Quick hits:
*K Mason Crosby set the Packers' single-season scoring record for kickers only with his first extra point of the day, which gave him 132 points this season.
*As I type, we've had a Bubba Franks siting. He just caught a 3-yard touchdown pass from Brett Favre. Make it 21-3.
*Speaking of Favre, his 21-yard scamper in the first quarter was his longest run from scrimmage since 1998.
*Koren Robinson's touchdown reception was his first with the Packers.
-Justin Harings
Many Packers resting
The No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs secure, the Green Bay Packers team you see on your TV set today won't look quite like the one you've grown used to watching this season. The list of inactives for the Packers includes CB Charles Woodson, FB Korey Hall, DE Aaron Kampman, DT Ryan Pickett, WR Donald Driver, WR Greg Jennings and TE Donald Lee. So where does that leave the Packers for today's game, you ask?
James Jones and Ruvell Martin will be the Nos. 1 and 2 WRs. Daryn Colledge is starting at LG. Bubba Franks, now healthy, will start at TE. With Kampman out, Cullen Jenkins will be the left defensive end and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila will slide in on the right end. Rookie first-round draft pick Justin Harrell will start at DT in place of Pickett, and Will Blackmon will get a start at CB.
Aaron Rodgers, who has been hampered by a groin injury lately, is the Packers' third QB. That means once Brett Favre extends his consecutive games-played steak, expect to get a heavy dose of Craig Nall.
For the Lions, notable inactives include RBs Tatum Bell and Kevin Jones as well as DE Kalimba Edwards.
Here are some more pregame notes to hold you over until kickoff, which is in about an hour:
*The Lions haven't won in the state of Wisconsin since beating the Packers 21-17 in 1991. They've had 16 straight losses in the state since then.
*After their dismal offensive performance last week against Chicago, the Packers likely are happy to see the Lions roll into Lambeau Field. The Packers have scored more points (3,182) against the Lions than any other franchise.
*A win today would give the Packers 13 for the season, tying a franchise record. The Packers have a 12-1 record in regular-season finales since 1994.
*Driver is inactive today, meaning his streak of 95 consecutive games with a reception will come to an end.
*RB Ryan Grant is 101 yards away from 1,000 for the season, but who knows how much work he'll see today.
*By the way, Monday marks the 40th anniversary of the Ice Bowl.
That's enough for now. I'll check back in after kickoff.
-Justin Harings
James Jones and Ruvell Martin will be the Nos. 1 and 2 WRs. Daryn Colledge is starting at LG. Bubba Franks, now healthy, will start at TE. With Kampman out, Cullen Jenkins will be the left defensive end and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila will slide in on the right end. Rookie first-round draft pick Justin Harrell will start at DT in place of Pickett, and Will Blackmon will get a start at CB.
Aaron Rodgers, who has been hampered by a groin injury lately, is the Packers' third QB. That means once Brett Favre extends his consecutive games-played steak, expect to get a heavy dose of Craig Nall.
For the Lions, notable inactives include RBs Tatum Bell and Kevin Jones as well as DE Kalimba Edwards.
Here are some more pregame notes to hold you over until kickoff, which is in about an hour:
*The Lions haven't won in the state of Wisconsin since beating the Packers 21-17 in 1991. They've had 16 straight losses in the state since then.
*After their dismal offensive performance last week against Chicago, the Packers likely are happy to see the Lions roll into Lambeau Field. The Packers have scored more points (3,182) against the Lions than any other franchise.
*A win today would give the Packers 13 for the season, tying a franchise record. The Packers have a 12-1 record in regular-season finales since 1994.
*Driver is inactive today, meaning his streak of 95 consecutive games with a reception will come to an end.
*RB Ryan Grant is 101 yards away from 1,000 for the season, but who knows how much work he'll see today.
*By the way, Monday marks the 40th anniversary of the Ice Bowl.
That's enough for now. I'll check back in after kickoff.
-Justin Harings
Greetings from Green Bay
It must be December in Green Bay. The wind is blowing, the roads are wet, the tundra is frozen and, nevertheless, the parking lot is packed. I, on the other hand, am safely tucked away in the warm press box at Lambeau Field, ready to bring you live updates from the Green Bay Packers' regular-season finale against the Detroit Lions. Kickoff is about an hour and a half away, so until we get a little closer, I'm going to dig into the pregame buffet.
-Justin Harings
-Justin Harings
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Blugolds trail at half
Let's see, the UW-Eau Claire men's basketball team has hit six 3-pointers, gotten to the foul line 12 times ... and trails by seven at halftime.
Jamestown College (N.D.) is putting on a ridiculous shooting display. The Jimmies shot 73.1 percent in the first half and lead 46-39 in the championship game of the UW-Eau Claire Holiday Classic.
Jamestown, an NAIA Division II school out of the Dakota Athletic Conference, is an impressive squad. They've got good size and some quality athletes. And they seemingly don't miss.
Jake Holen has 18 points on 7-of-8 shooting for the Jimmies. Ryan Shea has 14 to lead the Blugolds.
- Joe Ziemer
Jamestown College (N.D.) is putting on a ridiculous shooting display. The Jimmies shot 73.1 percent in the first half and lead 46-39 in the championship game of the UW-Eau Claire Holiday Classic.
Jamestown, an NAIA Division II school out of the Dakota Athletic Conference, is an impressive squad. They've got good size and some quality athletes. And they seemingly don't miss.
Jake Holen has 18 points on 7-of-8 shooting for the Jimmies. Ryan Shea has 14 to lead the Blugolds.
- Joe Ziemer
Friday, December 28, 2007
More on Mark Hallberg
There are quite a few signs out there pointing to the fact that Barron grad Mark Hallberg, who is in the Arizona Diamondbacks' minor-league system, has a legitimate shot to make it the big leagues. Mike Bell, his manager with the short-season, Class A Yakima (Wash.) Bears, had nothing but good things to say about his shortstop. His statistics place him among the best in the Northwest League, and come spring training, he should get a shot to test his abilities with a higher-level Class A club. Here is some more from the coversations I had with Mark and his dad, Monti, on Sunday that didn't make Friday's edition of the Leader-Telegram. If you missed the story, you can check it out here.
Mark Hallberg
On his experience playing at the professional level:
"It was a great experience. It's what I wanted to be doing. It was my dream, and I enjoyed myself this summer in my first season of professional baseball."
On how it felt to be chose in the MLB Draft:
"Obviously, I want to make it to the major leagues, so it's just a step, but it was a day that gave me an opportunity to show the people in professional baseball what I could do."
On how much the level of play increased from playing Division I college baseball:
"It went up a little bit. There's things that in professional baseball ... The pitching goes up a little bit, and also the adjustment with wood bats."
On whether he expected his quick rise from Illinois-Chicago to Florida State and now to the Diamondbacks' organization:
"I don't think you ever think that way. You just kind of take things as they come, so inside, deep, when I went to school at UIC, getting drafted my junior year was one of my goals. But the thing is, you got to prove to everyone what you can do on a daily basis."
On why he strikes out very few times, even at the professional level:
"I've pretty much been doing the same things I've always been doing. That's one of the things for me as a baseball player: I play good defense and do the little things right to help our team win baseball games. By not striking out, it helps our team by making the pitcher work."
Monti Hallberg
On the experience of watching his son rise to the professional level:
"For the last three or four years, it's been kind of like a dream. You wake up in the morning and think, 'Is it really a dream?'"
On the amount of work Mark has put into playing baseball:
"Mark's been focused. It's been his dream for a long time. He's worked at it. People think, 'Oh, he's just born to be a good baseball player,' but they don't see the hundreds of hours of work he's put into it behind the scenes."
So far, Mark Hallberg hasn't reached a level he hasn't been able to succeed at. Bell, his manager with Yakima, thinks it's only a matter of time until Mark gets his shot in the big leagues. Only time will tell, but as of now, there's no reason to think that he can't make his dream a reality.
-Justin Harings
Mark Hallberg
On his experience playing at the professional level:
"It was a great experience. It's what I wanted to be doing. It was my dream, and I enjoyed myself this summer in my first season of professional baseball."
On how it felt to be chose in the MLB Draft:
"Obviously, I want to make it to the major leagues, so it's just a step, but it was a day that gave me an opportunity to show the people in professional baseball what I could do."
On how much the level of play increased from playing Division I college baseball:
"It went up a little bit. There's things that in professional baseball ... The pitching goes up a little bit, and also the adjustment with wood bats."
On whether he expected his quick rise from Illinois-Chicago to Florida State and now to the Diamondbacks' organization:
"I don't think you ever think that way. You just kind of take things as they come, so inside, deep, when I went to school at UIC, getting drafted my junior year was one of my goals. But the thing is, you got to prove to everyone what you can do on a daily basis."
On why he strikes out very few times, even at the professional level:
"I've pretty much been doing the same things I've always been doing. That's one of the things for me as a baseball player: I play good defense and do the little things right to help our team win baseball games. By not striking out, it helps our team by making the pitcher work."
Monti Hallberg
On the experience of watching his son rise to the professional level:
"For the last three or four years, it's been kind of like a dream. You wake up in the morning and think, 'Is it really a dream?'"
On the amount of work Mark has put into playing baseball:
"Mark's been focused. It's been his dream for a long time. He's worked at it. People think, 'Oh, he's just born to be a good baseball player,' but they don't see the hundreds of hours of work he's put into it behind the scenes."
So far, Mark Hallberg hasn't reached a level he hasn't been able to succeed at. Bell, his manager with Yakima, thinks it's only a matter of time until Mark gets his shot in the big leagues. Only time will tell, but as of now, there's no reason to think that he can't make his dream a reality.
-Justin Harings
Blugolds up at half
The UW-Eau Claire men's basketball team hasn't played in 13 days, but the Blugolds look pretty sharp so far. At halftime they're leading Marian College 27-20 here at Zorn Arena.
The 'Golds having been moving the ball well and getting some good inside-outside looks. Dan Beyer has eight points, while Ryan Shea and Geoff Probst each have seven. I think Rashann Goodwinn has given them some nice energy off the bench. He's not exactly lighting up the stat sheet -- zero points, one rebound, one assist, one steal -- but I think he's had a nice impact on the game.
Jordan Van Ess has seven points for Marian.
This game looked well in hand when Probst hit a 3-pointer to put the Eau C. up 23-9 with 6 minutes, 10 seconds left in the half, but Marian put together a little run after that. If my math is correct -- I haven't taken a math class since high school -- that would be a 11-4 surge. Score one for the public school system.
Anyway, if anything noteworthy happens in the second half, I'll check back with y'all. Otherwise, be sure to check out Saturday's Leader-Telegram for game details. And if anyone has control of the weather, make it stop snowing.
- Joe Ziemer
The 'Golds having been moving the ball well and getting some good inside-outside looks. Dan Beyer has eight points, while Ryan Shea and Geoff Probst each have seven. I think Rashann Goodwinn has given them some nice energy off the bench. He's not exactly lighting up the stat sheet -- zero points, one rebound, one assist, one steal -- but I think he's had a nice impact on the game.
Jordan Van Ess has seven points for Marian.
This game looked well in hand when Probst hit a 3-pointer to put the Eau C. up 23-9 with 6 minutes, 10 seconds left in the half, but Marian put together a little run after that. If my math is correct -- I haven't taken a math class since high school -- that would be a 11-4 surge. Score one for the public school system.
Anyway, if anything noteworthy happens in the second half, I'll check back with y'all. Otherwise, be sure to check out Saturday's Leader-Telegram for game details. And if anyone has control of the weather, make it stop snowing.
- Joe Ziemer
Friday, December 21, 2007
North/Hayward Hockey notes
Here's a few notes from Eau Claire North's victory over Hayward on Thursday that didn't make the paper.
-- With forward Derrik Dillon (7 goals-3 assists-10 points) moving to defense for the next couple of weeks, coach Tom Bernhardt has placed junior Joe Sigurdson on the Huskies second line with Keilor Eggen and Derek Lund. Sigurdson missed the early part of the season with a sprained ankle and has been slowly working his way back into the lineup.
-- After struggling to keep up with a deep Eau Claire Memorial squad Tuesday, Bernhardt made a concerted effort to rotate in his third forward line of Jake Kamenick, Cody Matthes and Tim Shea into the game early. Bernhardt used his third line twice in the first three shifts before penalties in the second and third periods made keeping the line together difficult. Shea found himself rotating in with the second line during the latter periods.
-- Hayward coach Steve Kirley admits his team is still looking for a solid rotation on the power play. Kirley said he currently has three players who are solid on the power play, while two others are trying to learn the system.
- Adam Parks
-- With forward Derrik Dillon (7 goals-3 assists-10 points) moving to defense for the next couple of weeks, coach Tom Bernhardt has placed junior Joe Sigurdson on the Huskies second line with Keilor Eggen and Derek Lund. Sigurdson missed the early part of the season with a sprained ankle and has been slowly working his way back into the lineup.
-- After struggling to keep up with a deep Eau Claire Memorial squad Tuesday, Bernhardt made a concerted effort to rotate in his third forward line of Jake Kamenick, Cody Matthes and Tim Shea into the game early. Bernhardt used his third line twice in the first three shifts before penalties in the second and third periods made keeping the line together difficult. Shea found himself rotating in with the second line during the latter periods.
-- Hayward coach Steve Kirley admits his team is still looking for a solid rotation on the power play. Kirley said he currently has three players who are solid on the power play, while two others are trying to learn the system.
- Adam Parks
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Recruiting updates for Osseo-Fairchild, Regis girls
A few recruiting tidbits to pass along regarding local girls basketball.
UW-Eau Claire women's basketball coach Tonja Englund was in the house as was a coach from St. Mary's in Minnesota.
Englund was talking to Osseo-Fairchild point guard Laura Olson after the game, while the St. Mary's coach was lingering around the Regis bench and talked to post player Krista Flynn and I thought I heard her talking about Tessa Warner.
Osseo-Fairchild is also loaded with potential college players. Coach Matt Korger said several schools, including mid-major D1 programs, have inquired about junior Katey Wrobel while Princeton is after junior Laura Petersen. Sophomore Letaya Mulhern should also draw some interest.
UW-Eau Claire women's basketball coach Tonja Englund was in the house as was a coach from St. Mary's in Minnesota.
Englund was talking to Osseo-Fairchild point guard Laura Olson after the game, while the St. Mary's coach was lingering around the Regis bench and talked to post player Krista Flynn and I thought I heard her talking about Tessa Warner.
Osseo-Fairchild is also loaded with potential college players. Coach Matt Korger said several schools, including mid-major D1 programs, have inquired about junior Katey Wrobel while Princeton is after junior Laura Petersen. Sophomore Letaya Mulhern should also draw some interest.
Korger looking to his players
One of the more interesting things to come out of my postgame chat with Osseo-Fairchild coach Matt Korger was his comment when asked how he'd handle being in control of the Western Cloverbelt Conference.
The Chieftains beat Eau Claire Regis, 50-36, on Thursday night to improve to 6-0 overall and 4-0 in conference, one game ahead of Altoona and two ahead of Regis. While it isn't an insurmountable lead by any stretch of the imagination, you'd have to figure either Altoona or Regis will have to play flawless ball down the stretch to unseat Osseo-Fairchild.
"I’ve never really been in this spot before," said Korger, who was the Osseo-Fairchild boys JV coach last year and replaced Tony Calo as the girls varsity coach this season. "The girls have in the past two years. I’ll let them lead the way for me. You always worry about being complacent, but there’s no doubt that Altoona is going to be gunning for us and we still have to go to Regis, too, and Augusta gave us a good game. So it’s definitely not over."
Katey Wrobel, a 6-foot junior who scored 15 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Regis, seemed confident the team wasn't acting like it was over.
"We’ll see," she said. "We could lose tomorrow or we could lose next week. We’ll just have to keep playing hard."
Osseo-Fairchild should get a nice test at the La Crosse Logan tournament next week before returning to conference play after the new year.
— John Casper Jr.
The Chieftains beat Eau Claire Regis, 50-36, on Thursday night to improve to 6-0 overall and 4-0 in conference, one game ahead of Altoona and two ahead of Regis. While it isn't an insurmountable lead by any stretch of the imagination, you'd have to figure either Altoona or Regis will have to play flawless ball down the stretch to unseat Osseo-Fairchild.
"I’ve never really been in this spot before," said Korger, who was the Osseo-Fairchild boys JV coach last year and replaced Tony Calo as the girls varsity coach this season. "The girls have in the past two years. I’ll let them lead the way for me. You always worry about being complacent, but there’s no doubt that Altoona is going to be gunning for us and we still have to go to Regis, too, and Augusta gave us a good game. So it’s definitely not over."
Katey Wrobel, a 6-foot junior who scored 15 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Regis, seemed confident the team wasn't acting like it was over.
"We’ll see," she said. "We could lose tomorrow or we could lose next week. We’ll just have to keep playing hard."
Osseo-Fairchild should get a nice test at the La Crosse Logan tournament next week before returning to conference play after the new year.
— John Casper Jr.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Heavy is the head ...
The start of conference play hasn't been kind to last season's conference champions in the Big Rivers and Western Cloverbelt conferences. Rice Lake (1-4 overall) is off to a somewhat surprising 0-3 start in BRC play, while Gilman (0-6 overall) is 0-4 in the WCC.
The Warriors were expected by many, including yours truly, to be a contender for the Big Rivers title. But they've run into three other contenders right off the bat, falling to Eau Claire North, Chippewa Falls and Hudson. Even though Rice Lake does return two of the league's best players in Alex Culy and Andrew Lochmann, it's important to remember the Warriors also lost a lot of talent to graduation. Not only are all-Northwest performers Dan Culy and Sam Elliott gone, but so are valuable contributors like Rob Berger and Greg Lancette. That means a lot of players who don't have much varsity experience are being thrown into the fire. Once they get the hang of varsity ball and increased minutes, Rice Lake will be just fine.
Gilman, on the other hand, isn't likely to jump back into the conference race any time soon. The Pirates just lost too much. First Jacob Doro, Michael Mudgett, Joel Kulesa and Derk Hauser graduated. Then Trevor Rosemeyer tore up his knee playing football. That's the unfortunate nature of small-school athletics. It goes in cycles.
Both teams can earn their first conference wins tonight, which features a good slate of games. Rice Lake hosts Eau Claire Memorial and Gilman hosts Osseo-Fairchild.
- Joe Ziemer
The Warriors were expected by many, including yours truly, to be a contender for the Big Rivers title. But they've run into three other contenders right off the bat, falling to Eau Claire North, Chippewa Falls and Hudson. Even though Rice Lake does return two of the league's best players in Alex Culy and Andrew Lochmann, it's important to remember the Warriors also lost a lot of talent to graduation. Not only are all-Northwest performers Dan Culy and Sam Elliott gone, but so are valuable contributors like Rob Berger and Greg Lancette. That means a lot of players who don't have much varsity experience are being thrown into the fire. Once they get the hang of varsity ball and increased minutes, Rice Lake will be just fine.
Gilman, on the other hand, isn't likely to jump back into the conference race any time soon. The Pirates just lost too much. First Jacob Doro, Michael Mudgett, Joel Kulesa and Derk Hauser graduated. Then Trevor Rosemeyer tore up his knee playing football. That's the unfortunate nature of small-school athletics. It goes in cycles.
Both teams can earn their first conference wins tonight, which features a good slate of games. Rice Lake hosts Eau Claire Memorial and Gilman hosts Osseo-Fairchild.
- Joe Ziemer
Friday, December 14, 2007
More on Chi-Hi and North
Well, the paper’s on its way to the printer, so there should be a Leader-Telegram tomorrow. Here’s a few extra thoughts from Friday night’s Eau Claire North-Chippewa Falls boys basketball game:
* First off, it was an ugly game. A halftime score of 12-9 pretty much speaks for itself. But, with that said, it also was very entertaining. Two of the league’s best teams with a tournament-like atmosphere will wipe away a few offensive deficiencies.
* Chippewa Falls is legit. They certainly don’t have the bulk inside that North does, but what the Cardinals do have is a lot of tall, long and athletic players who can be relentless on defense. It’s not all that unlike what Eleva-Strum can do to teams.
* Evan Anderson certainly is a work in progress offensively – he was held scoreless Friday – but he is a game-changer on defense. He blocked numerous shots and altered probably half a dozen others. With him down low, kids will drive the lane and either put up an awkward layup attempt or kick the ball out.
“Who sees that at the high school level?” said Cardinals coach Luke Madsen when asked about Anderson’s defensive impact. “I think everybody just needs to take a step back and remember the kid just turned 16. He’s got all these expectations, all these scholarship offers. He’s got a lot to learn but he’s going to be fine. Defensively, he completely changes the game. I thought we still attacked pretty well, but he speeds up your shot. Kids are going in and letting go a little early. He’s going to be a beast for the next few years.”
It might have resulted in a turnover, but it was encouraging to see Anderson commit an offensive foul in the second half. He just needs to get comfortable offensively and get that little nasty streak all good big guys have. Let’s withhold judgement on Anderson for a few years and let him be a 16-year-old kid.
* UW-River Falls coach Jeff Berkhof was in attendance and chatted with Chi-Hi's Josh Prince afterwards. Prince, who could be a real nice Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference player, has been on coach Terry Gibbons and UW-Eau Claire's radar big-time. Prince has been spotted at a Blugolds game and Gibbons was an interested onlooker for at least one of Prince's soccer games in the fall.
-Joe Ziemer
* First off, it was an ugly game. A halftime score of 12-9 pretty much speaks for itself. But, with that said, it also was very entertaining. Two of the league’s best teams with a tournament-like atmosphere will wipe away a few offensive deficiencies.
* Chippewa Falls is legit. They certainly don’t have the bulk inside that North does, but what the Cardinals do have is a lot of tall, long and athletic players who can be relentless on defense. It’s not all that unlike what Eleva-Strum can do to teams.
* Evan Anderson certainly is a work in progress offensively – he was held scoreless Friday – but he is a game-changer on defense. He blocked numerous shots and altered probably half a dozen others. With him down low, kids will drive the lane and either put up an awkward layup attempt or kick the ball out.
“Who sees that at the high school level?” said Cardinals coach Luke Madsen when asked about Anderson’s defensive impact. “I think everybody just needs to take a step back and remember the kid just turned 16. He’s got all these expectations, all these scholarship offers. He’s got a lot to learn but he’s going to be fine. Defensively, he completely changes the game. I thought we still attacked pretty well, but he speeds up your shot. Kids are going in and letting go a little early. He’s going to be a beast for the next few years.”
It might have resulted in a turnover, but it was encouraging to see Anderson commit an offensive foul in the second half. He just needs to get comfortable offensively and get that little nasty streak all good big guys have. Let’s withhold judgement on Anderson for a few years and let him be a 16-year-old kid.
* UW-River Falls coach Jeff Berkhof was in attendance and chatted with Chi-Hi's Josh Prince afterwards. Prince, who could be a real nice Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference player, has been on coach Terry Gibbons and UW-Eau Claire's radar big-time. Prince has been spotted at a Blugolds game and Gibbons was an interested onlooker for at least one of Prince's soccer games in the fall.
-Joe Ziemer
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Packers find a way to hold on
The blog title is pure sarcasm, by the way.
The fourth quarter of this game was so uneventful, many media members took more interest in the Cowboys-Lions contest which ended in the Cowboys stealing a 28-27 victory over the Lions and all but guaranteeing home-field advantage in the playoffs.
The Packers, on the other hand, beat the Raiders 38-7. It was pretty much the game most expected — ugly, a bit chippy and entirely one-sided.
The Packers clinced the NFC North and a playoff spot for the first time in three seasons. Brett Favre, who appeared to take some fashion tips from Dane Cook for his post-game press conference attire, threw for 266 yards and Ryan Grant, dressed in a moderate sweater and jeans, rushed for 156. Grant is on pace to reach 1,000 yards for the season.
That's all from here. As my much more hip co-worker Joe Ziemer likes to say, see you in the 715.
- John Casper Jr.
The fourth quarter of this game was so uneventful, many media members took more interest in the Cowboys-Lions contest which ended in the Cowboys stealing a 28-27 victory over the Lions and all but guaranteeing home-field advantage in the playoffs.
The Packers, on the other hand, beat the Raiders 38-7. It was pretty much the game most expected — ugly, a bit chippy and entirely one-sided.
The Packers clinced the NFC North and a playoff spot for the first time in three seasons. Brett Favre, who appeared to take some fashion tips from Dane Cook for his post-game press conference attire, threw for 266 yards and Ryan Grant, dressed in a moderate sweater and jeans, rushed for 156. Grant is on pace to reach 1,000 yards for the season.
That's all from here. As my much more hip co-worker Joe Ziemer likes to say, see you in the 715.
- John Casper Jr.
Packers strike twice
It looks like Oakland's late first-half score was an abberration.
The Packers now have a 24-7 lead over the Raiders after a 44-yard field goal by Mason Crosby and an 80-yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings.
The game is getting rather chippy on the field. The Raiders were called for roughing the passer on Favre's touchdown strike to Jennings and the Packers were flagged for a facemask on the extra point try.
- John Casper Jr.
The Packers now have a 24-7 lead over the Raiders after a 44-yard field goal by Mason Crosby and an 80-yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings.
The game is getting rather chippy on the field. The Raiders were called for roughing the passer on Favre's touchdown strike to Jennings and the Packers were flagged for a facemask on the extra point try.
- John Casper Jr.
Raiders show some life before half
Just as I was putting the finishing touches on a blog entry about how this isn't the Raiders' day, Josh McCown leads Oakland on a four-play, 67-yard drive culminating in a 25-yard touchdown pass to Jerry Porter. Porter took the ball away from Al Harris, who was in position to make the interception.
Before that drive, things couldn't get much worse for Oakland. Its previous two possessions netted a total of minus-2 yards and one ended in an interception. The Packers returned a punt for a touchdown in that span, even though replays clearly showed that Will Blackmon stepped out of bounds at the 4-yard line.
But Brett Favre overthrew a wide-open Greg Jennings and Mason Crosby missed — rather badly — on a 42-yard field goal to give Oakland one last shot in the first half, and the Raiders made the most of it.
The Packers lead 14-7 at the half.
In other news, Nick Barnett was poked in the eye and taken to the locker room for examination. We haven't received any update on his condition. It appeared to occur during a post-play altercation with a Raiders linemen. After the incident, some Packers and Raiders mixed it up a little bit, but nothing serious developed. It may be worth keeping an eye on in the second half.
Also, did anyone catch the synchronized officiating? During the Packers' last drive of the half, four officials gathered to discuss an illegal man downfield call against the Packers. After they made the deicision, all four threw their flags in the air at the same exact time. It was very odd, but alluring.
- John Casper Jr.
Before that drive, things couldn't get much worse for Oakland. Its previous two possessions netted a total of minus-2 yards and one ended in an interception. The Packers returned a punt for a touchdown in that span, even though replays clearly showed that Will Blackmon stepped out of bounds at the 4-yard line.
But Brett Favre overthrew a wide-open Greg Jennings and Mason Crosby missed — rather badly — on a 42-yard field goal to give Oakland one last shot in the first half, and the Raiders made the most of it.
The Packers lead 14-7 at the half.
In other news, Nick Barnett was poked in the eye and taken to the locker room for examination. We haven't received any update on his condition. It appeared to occur during a post-play altercation with a Raiders linemen. After the incident, some Packers and Raiders mixed it up a little bit, but nothing serious developed. It may be worth keeping an eye on in the second half.
Also, did anyone catch the synchronized officiating? During the Packers' last drive of the half, four officials gathered to discuss an illegal man downfield call against the Packers. After they made the deicision, all four threw their flags in the air at the same exact time. It was very odd, but alluring.
- John Casper Jr.
Just like that, another score
The Packers' Will Blackmon just had an electric 57-yard punt return to help the Packers take a 14-0 lead with 5:44 left in the first half. It was his first career touchdown.
The punt return came after Oakland shot itself in the foot twice. An offensive pass interference call on Joey Porter and a holding call negated two first-down passes and pushed Oakland back inside its own 10-yard line.
- John Casper Jr.
The punt return came after Oakland shot itself in the foot twice. An offensive pass interference call on Joey Porter and a holding call negated two first-down passes and pushed Oakland back inside its own 10-yard line.
- John Casper Jr.
Packers hit pay dirt
In their third trip inside the Raiders' 30-yard line, the Packers finally put some points on the board.
Ryan Grant scored from six yards out and the extra point gave the Packers a 7-0 lead with 8:51 left in the first half. Grant had six carries for 24 yards on the drive, and has 66 yards on 13 carries for the game.
I think we're going to see a lot more of Grant as the game goes on.
On the defensive side, the Packers' Nick Barnett already has seven tackles.
- John Casper Jr.
Ryan Grant scored from six yards out and the extra point gave the Packers a 7-0 lead with 8:51 left in the first half. Grant had six carries for 24 yards on the drive, and has 66 yards on 13 carries for the game.
I think we're going to see a lot more of Grant as the game goes on.
On the defensive side, the Packers' Nick Barnett already has seven tackles.
- John Casper Jr.
Neither team doing much of anything
As expected, we've got a pretty ugly game here at Lambeau Field.
The Packers had early success running the ball with Ryan Grant but have been stymied a bit recently. Whether or not it's because of his elbow injury, Brett Favre's throws are high, and one was intercepted deep in Raiders territory.
Oakland's biggest problem is a lack of playmakers on offense. Aside from Justin Fargas, there's really not much there. Josh McCown overthrew a wide-open Jerry Porter on third-and-11. Of course, the Packers' Atari Bigby celebrated the play even though he was the one that got beat and the only reason it didn't result in a first down is because McCown didn't make the pass.
The Packers are starting their third drive of the game at the Raiders' 47.
- John Casper Jr.
The Packers had early success running the ball with Ryan Grant but have been stymied a bit recently. Whether or not it's because of his elbow injury, Brett Favre's throws are high, and one was intercepted deep in Raiders territory.
Oakland's biggest problem is a lack of playmakers on offense. Aside from Justin Fargas, there's really not much there. Josh McCown overthrew a wide-open Jerry Porter on third-and-11. Of course, the Packers' Atari Bigby celebrated the play even though he was the one that got beat and the only reason it didn't result in a first down is because McCown didn't make the pass.
The Packers are starting their third drive of the game at the Raiders' 47.
- John Casper Jr.
We're live at Lambeau
Greetings from Lambeau Field, where Mason Crosby is about to kick off today's game between the Packers and Oakland Raiders.
A few quick notes to get you set for today's game:
Brett Favre will play and make his 250th straight start. Josh McCown will get the start at QB for the Raiders. No. 1 pick JaMarcus Russell is the Raiders' third quarterback today, meaning that both McCown and Daunte Culpepper would have to get hurt in order for him to play.
The last time the Raiders and Packers met at Lambeau was 1999. Prior to that, the previous Lambeau meeting came in 1993 when LeRoy Butler returned an interception for a touchdown and celebrated by leaping into the stands. Thus the Lambeau Leap was born. If you want to know more about the Lambeau Leap, I'm sure Butler is appearing at some sort of Packers-related extravaganza near you sometime this week. If not, he'll be here next week.
Packers running back Ryan Grant has the second-most rushing yards since week 8 (561). The only back that has run for more yards is the Raiders' Justin Fargas, son of Huggy Bear.
- John Casper Jr.
A few quick notes to get you set for today's game:
Brett Favre will play and make his 250th straight start. Josh McCown will get the start at QB for the Raiders. No. 1 pick JaMarcus Russell is the Raiders' third quarterback today, meaning that both McCown and Daunte Culpepper would have to get hurt in order for him to play.
The last time the Raiders and Packers met at Lambeau was 1999. Prior to that, the previous Lambeau meeting came in 1993 when LeRoy Butler returned an interception for a touchdown and celebrated by leaping into the stands. Thus the Lambeau Leap was born. If you want to know more about the Lambeau Leap, I'm sure Butler is appearing at some sort of Packers-related extravaganza near you sometime this week. If not, he'll be here next week.
Packers running back Ryan Grant has the second-most rushing yards since week 8 (561). The only back that has run for more yards is the Raiders' Justin Fargas, son of Huggy Bear.
- John Casper Jr.
How we select the all-Northwest team
Many of you have patiently been waiting for our all-Northwest football team. Well, the wait is finally over. Our team was announced in today's newspaper, and can be seen here.
In case you were wondering how we selected the team, the process actually began before the season started. Like many of you, we had our eye on several players we thought would emerge as potential all-Northwest candidates. Obviously, we would widen our search as the year progressed. Any time we covered a game, we'd try to pay special attention to certain indviduals, looking for something that may distinguish them from others at their position.
Midway through the playoffs, we sent out questionnaires to all area coaches. We started asking others opinions and narrowed our focus.
Then, last week, Ron Buckli and I sat down and went through all the nominations and debated which individuals deserved the recognition. We'd use a combination of individual statistics, team success and other intangibles in selecting the team.
There were some tough choices that had to be made, as is the case with any all-area team. Because we believe in selecting a true team, we only took 11 guys on offense, 11 on defense and a kicker and punter. We are open to adjusting the rosters somewhat. For example, this year we had a plethora of talented defensive linemen. Instead of slighting one of those guys and only taking four linemen, we decided to go with five linemen, three linebackers and three defensive backs.
We feel that we've picked a pretty good team. But what about you? What do you think? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
- John Casper Jr.
In case you were wondering how we selected the team, the process actually began before the season started. Like many of you, we had our eye on several players we thought would emerge as potential all-Northwest candidates. Obviously, we would widen our search as the year progressed. Any time we covered a game, we'd try to pay special attention to certain indviduals, looking for something that may distinguish them from others at their position.
Midway through the playoffs, we sent out questionnaires to all area coaches. We started asking others opinions and narrowed our focus.
Then, last week, Ron Buckli and I sat down and went through all the nominations and debated which individuals deserved the recognition. We'd use a combination of individual statistics, team success and other intangibles in selecting the team.
There were some tough choices that had to be made, as is the case with any all-area team. Because we believe in selecting a true team, we only took 11 guys on offense, 11 on defense and a kicker and punter. We are open to adjusting the rosters somewhat. For example, this year we had a plethora of talented defensive linemen. Instead of slighting one of those guys and only taking four linemen, we decided to go with five linemen, three linebackers and three defensive backs.
We feel that we've picked a pretty good team. But what about you? What do you think? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
- John Casper Jr.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
The Kohl Center word of the day: maturity
There was definitely a common theme eminating from the Marquette contingent in the post-game press conference.
Both the players and coach Tom Crean spoke how their experience in big games — especially ones against Wisconsin — helped them in Saturday's victory, which ended the Badgers' 28-game home winning streak.
Other tidbits:
*Bo Ryan said that Brian Butch didn't play in the final three minutes because he wanted to go with a smaller, quicker lineup to help erase what was at the time a five-point deficit.
*Ryan also credited MU's advantage on the boards to the fact that center Greg Stiemsma didn't play much. Marquette outrebounded the Badgers 41-34 and grabbed 21 offensive rebounds.
*Crean used the beginning of his post-game statement to share his amazement at how the rivalry has grown. While it was always a big deal to those in Wisconsin, this was the second straight year the game received a national TV audience on either ESPN or ESPN2. Here's what he said:
"I said to Bo when we first greeted each other before the game, who would have thought that over this period of time that both teams would be where they’re ranked and where it’s such a big deal to play this game. I know it’s always been a big deal with Marquette and Wisconsin but over the last few years, it’s just gone up."
- John Casper Jr.
Both the players and coach Tom Crean spoke how their experience in big games — especially ones against Wisconsin — helped them in Saturday's victory, which ended the Badgers' 28-game home winning streak.
Other tidbits:
*Bo Ryan said that Brian Butch didn't play in the final three minutes because he wanted to go with a smaller, quicker lineup to help erase what was at the time a five-point deficit.
*Ryan also credited MU's advantage on the boards to the fact that center Greg Stiemsma didn't play much. Marquette outrebounded the Badgers 41-34 and grabbed 21 offensive rebounds.
*Crean used the beginning of his post-game statement to share his amazement at how the rivalry has grown. While it was always a big deal to those in Wisconsin, this was the second straight year the game received a national TV audience on either ESPN or ESPN2. Here's what he said:
"I said to Bo when we first greeted each other before the game, who would have thought that over this period of time that both teams would be where they’re ranked and where it’s such a big deal to play this game. I know it’s always been a big deal with Marquette and Wisconsin but over the last few years, it’s just gone up."
- John Casper Jr.
It's James and Marquette
For the second straight season, the visiting team won in the Marquette-Wisconsin rivalry.
Junior guard Dominic James poured in 20 points while Wes Matthews and Dwight Burke came through with some key rebounds down the stretch as the Eagles held on for a 81-76 victory. James put an exclamation point on the victory with an emphatic block of an attempted layup by Trevon Hughes.
The victory is the first for Marquette in the Kohl Center. The Eagles last won in Madison in November of 1997.
I'll have some postgame reaction later tonight and look for more coverage in tomorrow's Leader-Telegram.
- John Casper Jr.
Junior guard Dominic James poured in 20 points while Wes Matthews and Dwight Burke came through with some key rebounds down the stretch as the Eagles held on for a 81-76 victory. James put an exclamation point on the victory with an emphatic block of an attempted layup by Trevon Hughes.
The victory is the first for Marquette in the Kohl Center. The Eagles last won in Madison in November of 1997.
I'll have some postgame reaction later tonight and look for more coverage in tomorrow's Leader-Telegram.
- John Casper Jr.
Who is going to step up?
Forgive the horrible sports cliche for the blog title, but this rivalry has been defined in the last few years by clutch performances. Whether it was Dwyane Wade in 2002 or Travis Diener in 2004 for Marquette, or Devin Harris in 2003 and Alando Tucker in 2006 for Wisconsin, someone has put the team on the back and delivered at the end of the game.
Marquette has a 66-64 lead with 3:44 left, and its top candidate appears to be Dominic James. He's got 19 points and is not giving up the ball without a fight. On the other end, Brian Butch is asserting himself down low and Trevon Hughes is handling Marquette's pressure rather admirably on the outside.
Should be a fun last 3:44.
- John Casper Jr.
Marquette has a 66-64 lead with 3:44 left, and its top candidate appears to be Dominic James. He's got 19 points and is not giving up the ball without a fight. On the other end, Brian Butch is asserting himself down low and Trevon Hughes is handling Marquette's pressure rather admirably on the outside.
Should be a fun last 3:44.
- John Casper Jr.
We're still tied
The flow of the game is still pretty ugly, but neither team has been able to build much of an advantage over the other. The Badgers' Jon Leuer and Marquette's Maurice Aker just swapped 3-pointers, and we're tied at 59 with 7:52 left.
Marquette's Jerel McNeal is starting to play a little wild for the Eagles. He's tried to force a few layups and has made a couple of bad passes as of late. Dominic James, on the other hand, is trying to take over the game. McNeal would be best-advised if he deferred to James on some of these next possessions to see if that doesn't ignite Marquette.
- John Casper Jr.
Marquette's Jerel McNeal is starting to play a little wild for the Eagles. He's tried to force a few layups and has made a couple of bad passes as of late. Dominic James, on the other hand, is trying to take over the game. McNeal would be best-advised if he deferred to James on some of these next possessions to see if that doesn't ignite Marquette.
- John Casper Jr.
Momentum changing hands in the second half
As the game takes a turn for the ugly in the second half, it's also taking a turn in the favor of the Badgers.
Marquette now has two of its top defenders in foul trouble — Lazar Hayward still has three and Jerel McNeal just picked up his third defending a Trevon Hughes jump shot 18 feet from the basket.
The Badgers still have the advantage on the offensive boards and are starting to turn Marquette more. Five of Marquette's first nine possessions in the second half resulted in turnovers.
The good news for Marquette fans is that Wisconsin only has a 48-46 lead at this point (14:39 left in the game). But the Badgers seem to be on the verge of a big run.
- John Casper Jr.
Marquette now has two of its top defenders in foul trouble — Lazar Hayward still has three and Jerel McNeal just picked up his third defending a Trevon Hughes jump shot 18 feet from the basket.
The Badgers still have the advantage on the offensive boards and are starting to turn Marquette more. Five of Marquette's first nine possessions in the second half resulted in turnovers.
The good news for Marquette fans is that Wisconsin only has a 48-46 lead at this point (14:39 left in the game). But the Badgers seem to be on the verge of a big run.
- John Casper Jr.
Badgers should look to Landry
Marquette forward Lazar Hayward just picked up his second and third fouls in a 32-second span, meaning that someone else will have to match up with Marcus Landry.
Right now, that job is falling on the hands of swingman Wes Matthews, who had to do something similar last year against Alando Tucker when Jerel McNeal got into foul trouble. Matthews struggled, Tucker went off for 28 points, and the Badgers won the game.
Now, Landry isn't the same player Tucker was, but it's still an advantage the Badgers may want to explore over the next few possessions.
Marquette leads 33-32 with 3:59 left in the first after a Brian Butch 3-pointer.
- John Casper Jr.
Right now, that job is falling on the hands of swingman Wes Matthews, who had to do something similar last year against Alando Tucker when Jerel McNeal got into foul trouble. Matthews struggled, Tucker went off for 28 points, and the Badgers won the game.
Now, Landry isn't the same player Tucker was, but it's still an advantage the Badgers may want to explore over the next few possessions.
Marquette leads 33-32 with 3:59 left in the first after a Brian Butch 3-pointer.
- John Casper Jr.
This game actually has some flow
As someone who has seen every Marquette-Wisconsin game since 1985, I like to think I know a thing or two about this game. And this is by far the most fluid game I've seen in recent years.
Part of that has to do with Marquette's up-tempo style. Part of that has to do with the fact both teams are making their shots. And part of that is because Ed Hightower isn't here calling a foul every 20 seconds.
There's not a whole lot of banging going on underneath, but that doesn't mean this game isn't physical. Marquette is using its seemingly never-ending supply of guards to provide ball pressure on UW's wing players, while the Badgers are hitting the boards hard.
A good sign for Marquette is the emergence of Dwight Burke. A seldom-used bench player over the past few seasons, Burke is the starting center for Marquette and while nobody is going to confuse him for an all-American, he's giving the Eagles exactly what they need. He's scored six points and recently kept alive an offensive possession which resulted in a 3-pointer by Maurice Aker that pushed the Eagles' lead to 31-25 with 7 minutes left.
- John Casper Jr.
Part of that has to do with Marquette's up-tempo style. Part of that has to do with the fact both teams are making their shots. And part of that is because Ed Hightower isn't here calling a foul every 20 seconds.
There's not a whole lot of banging going on underneath, but that doesn't mean this game isn't physical. Marquette is using its seemingly never-ending supply of guards to provide ball pressure on UW's wing players, while the Badgers are hitting the boards hard.
A good sign for Marquette is the emergence of Dwight Burke. A seldom-used bench player over the past few seasons, Burke is the starting center for Marquette and while nobody is going to confuse him for an all-American, he's giving the Eagles exactly what they need. He's scored six points and recently kept alive an offensive possession which resulted in a 3-pointer by Maurice Aker that pushed the Eagles' lead to 31-25 with 7 minutes left.
- John Casper Jr.
Badgers owning the boards
If there's one advantage the Badgers have in this game, it's definitely the size down low. Marquette has a 10-8 lead with 14:51 left to play, but Wisconsin is hanging around because of its ability to grab offensive rebounds.
The Badgers last three baskets have come on second-chance opportunities, something Marquette can ill-afford to do if it wants to win this game.
On another note, the crowd is more pro-Wisconsin than in recent years. Usually it's about 90/10 for this game, but I'd guess that there's only about 5 percent Marquette fans, if that.
Dominic James has chosen to go with white high socks rather than choosing a color that would match the jersey. He's also ditched the shooting sleeve. I think it's a bad move. You aren't cool unless you have a shooting sleeve.
Marquette hasn't pressured in the full court yet, but I suspect that's coming. Wisconsin had trouble handling the press against Duke.
- John Casper Jr.
The Badgers last three baskets have come on second-chance opportunities, something Marquette can ill-afford to do if it wants to win this game.
On another note, the crowd is more pro-Wisconsin than in recent years. Usually it's about 90/10 for this game, but I'd guess that there's only about 5 percent Marquette fans, if that.
Dominic James has chosen to go with white high socks rather than choosing a color that would match the jersey. He's also ditched the shooting sleeve. I think it's a bad move. You aren't cool unless you have a shooting sleeve.
Marquette hasn't pressured in the full court yet, but I suspect that's coming. Wisconsin had trouble handling the press against Duke.
- John Casper Jr.
We're live at the Kohl Center
You are looking live at a blog from the Kohl Center on the campus of the University of Wisconsin, where in a few minutes the Wisconsin Badgers will tip it off against the Marquette Golden Eagles.
Keep coming back here for updates and insight into today's game, which can be seen on ESPN2, which is available on cable. The Big Ten Network still is not.
- John Casper Jr.
Keep coming back here for updates and insight into today's game, which can be seen on ESPN2, which is available on cable. The Big Ten Network still is not.
- John Casper Jr.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
More on the Macks
When we were talking about the Western Cloverbelt Conference before the season, Altoona boys basketball coach Andy Riechers told me he thought a lot of people were overlooking what could be a pretty good Chippewa Falls McDonell team.
He probably wishes he wasn't so dead on.
The Macks' 65-60 victory over the Railroaders on Thursday made them a legitimate contender in the WCC. They're now one of four teams -- along with Altoona, Augusta and Fall Creek -- at 2-1 in league play. So anyone who had didn't think McDonell was going to be a player in the WCC race better think again.
“They’re just so athletic and quick," Riechers said of the Macks. "They’re running to the corners fast. Their post players are physical and they’ve got four of them that can rotate in and out. They all step out and shoot the 3 and they know when to kick the ball out to 3-point shooters. Their 3-point shooters knock them down. It’s an impressive team.”
A few more thoughts and observations from the game:
* McDonell is for real. They have a lot of depth, some solid frontcourt players and they're athletic. They were very much an unknown coming into the season but as the Macks get better -- which they should -- they're going to be very tough. Their up-tempo game also is pretty fun to watch.
“We had a decent JV team and this summer we played together," said junior guard Jarrod Martell. "We played really well. We played just like we play now — really pushing the ball and beating on teams with our fastbreak. We’re sticking to that.”
* Martell, who played only limited varsity minutes last season, had 14 points, seven rebounds and six assists. There were times when coach Archie Sherbinow wanted him to slow down a bit, but Sherbinow knows that Martell's at his best when he's playing at a frantic pace.
* “It’s one of those coaching dilemmas," Sherbinow said. "You’ve got to let him go but at times you kind of want to rein him in. But if you start doing that, you probably get in his head and he’s not sure what he should and shouldn’t do. He did a lot of things. He’s definitely somebody who’s fun to watch out there on the floor. He can get up and down the floor and he gets to the hoop.”
* Junior Alex Rau has a chance to be a very good player for Altoona. He's 6-foot-6, has solid post moves and a nice outside touch. He was very effective in stretches Thursday, scoring 12 of his 14 points in the second quarter. As the Rails continue to feel out their new-look offense, they're going to need to get Rau involved more often.
“It’s just a matter of finding Alex where Alex is comfortable," Riechers said. "He’s a good shooter from the outside and when we penetrate, we’re drawing his guy and we’re able to kick it out to him. The guys are still getting used to where everybody is in the offense and they’re doing a better job of finding each other.”
- Joe Ziemer
He probably wishes he wasn't so dead on.
The Macks' 65-60 victory over the Railroaders on Thursday made them a legitimate contender in the WCC. They're now one of four teams -- along with Altoona, Augusta and Fall Creek -- at 2-1 in league play. So anyone who had didn't think McDonell was going to be a player in the WCC race better think again.
“They’re just so athletic and quick," Riechers said of the Macks. "They’re running to the corners fast. Their post players are physical and they’ve got four of them that can rotate in and out. They all step out and shoot the 3 and they know when to kick the ball out to 3-point shooters. Their 3-point shooters knock them down. It’s an impressive team.”
A few more thoughts and observations from the game:
* McDonell is for real. They have a lot of depth, some solid frontcourt players and they're athletic. They were very much an unknown coming into the season but as the Macks get better -- which they should -- they're going to be very tough. Their up-tempo game also is pretty fun to watch.
“We had a decent JV team and this summer we played together," said junior guard Jarrod Martell. "We played really well. We played just like we play now — really pushing the ball and beating on teams with our fastbreak. We’re sticking to that.”
* Martell, who played only limited varsity minutes last season, had 14 points, seven rebounds and six assists. There were times when coach Archie Sherbinow wanted him to slow down a bit, but Sherbinow knows that Martell's at his best when he's playing at a frantic pace.
* “It’s one of those coaching dilemmas," Sherbinow said. "You’ve got to let him go but at times you kind of want to rein him in. But if you start doing that, you probably get in his head and he’s not sure what he should and shouldn’t do. He did a lot of things. He’s definitely somebody who’s fun to watch out there on the floor. He can get up and down the floor and he gets to the hoop.”
* Junior Alex Rau has a chance to be a very good player for Altoona. He's 6-foot-6, has solid post moves and a nice outside touch. He was very effective in stretches Thursday, scoring 12 of his 14 points in the second quarter. As the Rails continue to feel out their new-look offense, they're going to need to get Rau involved more often.
“It’s just a matter of finding Alex where Alex is comfortable," Riechers said. "He’s a good shooter from the outside and when we penetrate, we’re drawing his guy and we’re able to kick it out to him. The guys are still getting used to where everybody is in the offense and they’re doing a better job of finding each other.”
- Joe Ziemer
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Blugolds men in control
Sorry for the lack of updates from the men's game. I'm trying to get the women's game story done early enough just in case the snow storm forces us to send the paper to the printer a bit earlier.
It looks as though the Blugolds are going to make it a clean sweep here at Johnson Fieldhouse. UW-Stout tied the game at 39 on a 3-pointer by Alex Mason with 13:10 left, but the Blugolds have cruised since, and now have a 54-47 lead with a little more than 6 minutes to play.
- John Casper Jr.
It looks as though the Blugolds are going to make it a clean sweep here at Johnson Fieldhouse. UW-Stout tied the game at 39 on a 3-pointer by Alex Mason with 13:10 left, but the Blugolds have cruised since, and now have a 54-47 lead with a little more than 6 minutes to play.
- John Casper Jr.
Blugolds women win, 70-59
The men's game has started, but I wanted to chime in with some observations on the Blugolds 70-59 victory over UW-Stout.
*UW-Eau Claire became the first WIAC team to win at Johnson Fieldhouse since December of 2005 and only the seventh since the 2000-'01 season. After the game, Michelle Burns gathered her teammates on the court and emphatically reminded them of the accomplishment.
*Both coach Tonja Englund and Burns spoke of the contribution from senior Kali Houselog, who scored all nine of her points in a five-minute stretch in the second half in which the Blugolds took control of the game. Englund said that's what she loves to see from a senior. UW-Eau Claire didn't have any on its roster last season.
*Blue Devils coach Mark Thomas said his team lost the game when it failed to push the ball in transition. Point guard Lindsey Geissler said the same. The Blue Devils only had three turnovers in the second half, compared to 16 in the first half, but never could get a good run going.
I'll have more later tonight and be sure to check the coverage in tomorrow's Leader-Telegram.
- John Casper Jr.
*UW-Eau Claire became the first WIAC team to win at Johnson Fieldhouse since December of 2005 and only the seventh since the 2000-'01 season. After the game, Michelle Burns gathered her teammates on the court and emphatically reminded them of the accomplishment.
*Both coach Tonja Englund and Burns spoke of the contribution from senior Kali Houselog, who scored all nine of her points in a five-minute stretch in the second half in which the Blugolds took control of the game. Englund said that's what she loves to see from a senior. UW-Eau Claire didn't have any on its roster last season.
*Blue Devils coach Mark Thomas said his team lost the game when it failed to push the ball in transition. Point guard Lindsey Geissler said the same. The Blue Devils only had three turnovers in the second half, compared to 16 in the first half, but never could get a good run going.
I'll have more later tonight and be sure to check the coverage in tomorrow's Leader-Telegram.
- John Casper Jr.
It's a game of runs
Basketball is a game of runs, and this one is certainly no exception.
After going 1-for-11 from the floor and watching its lead shrink to four points, UW-Eau Claire made five of its next six shots and was 7-for-8 from the free-throw line to grab a 53-37 lead with 9:18 left.
The Blugolds have been able to regain control of the game in large part because of the play from senior Kali Houselog. She has nine points during the Blugolds' latest spurt, including one basket on a post move that would make Hakeem Olajuwoun and Kevin McHale proud.
UW-Eau Claire leads 56-41 with 7:10 left.
(By the way, I know it's a dated reference, but I'm rather impressed I spelled Olajuwon correctly. At least I think I did. That's how Wikipedia spells it and as everyone knows, Wikipedia is always correct.)
- John Casper Jr.
After going 1-for-11 from the floor and watching its lead shrink to four points, UW-Eau Claire made five of its next six shots and was 7-for-8 from the free-throw line to grab a 53-37 lead with 9:18 left.
The Blugolds have been able to regain control of the game in large part because of the play from senior Kali Houselog. She has nine points during the Blugolds' latest spurt, including one basket on a post move that would make Hakeem Olajuwoun and Kevin McHale proud.
UW-Eau Claire leads 56-41 with 7:10 left.
(By the way, I know it's a dated reference, but I'm rather impressed I spelled Olajuwon correctly. At least I think I did. That's how Wikipedia spells it and as everyone knows, Wikipedia is always correct.)
- John Casper Jr.
We may have a game here
So much for the Blugolds pulling away early in the second half.
UW-Eau Claire has missed its first eight shots of the second half, while UW-Stout is starting to get better looks at the hoop. A jumper by Tricia Van Vreede just cut the lead to 34-30, and Blugolds coach Tonja Englund couldn't wait until the 16-minute media timeout before she needed to settle her squad.
UW-Eau Claire has missed its first eight shots of the second half, while UW-Stout is starting to get better looks at the hoop. A jumper by Tricia Van Vreede just cut the lead to 34-30, and Blugolds coach Tonja Englund couldn't wait until the 16-minute media timeout before she needed to settle her squad.
Blugolds just deeper than Stout
UW-Eau Claire has a 34-22 halftime lead here at Johnson Fieldhouse, an advantage it built on the strength of a 22-4 run midway through the first half. The lead was as much as 15 at one point, but the Blue Devils were able to get to the hoop with some consistency over the last few minutes to stay close.
Some initial first-half observations:
*A big reason why UW-Eau Claire was picked to win the WIAC was because of its depth. Whereas the Blue Devils' starting five matches up well with the Blugolds' starting five, UW-Eau Claire definitely has the advantage on the bench. Case in point, 6-foot-2 center Ashley Anderson. Although she's only averaged 6.2 minutes per game in UW-Eau Claire's first five five contests, she's already given the Blugolds several quality minutes in the first half and has four points and one block to show for her efforts. The Blugolds can also use Missy Fremstad to spell point guard Heather Witt and not lose much intensity.
*UW-Stout needs better shot selection. The Blue Devils are shooting 26 percent from the floor, including 3-of-14 on 3-pointers. Since making 2-of-5 in the first three minutes of the game, they are 1-for-9. Unless those shots magically start falling, Stout would be best advised to make the extra pass or attack the basket.
*The Blue Devils' Charlee Edwards is a fun player to watch. She reminds me a lot of Marquette's Jerel McNeal in that she's all over the court on defense, yet can make some mistakes by being too aggressive on offense. She already has five steals, but she also has four turnovers — several on traveling violations when she's trying to make a fake. Coach Mark Thomas has pulled her off the court after a few of these turnovers, but I wouldn't be surprised if she's on the floor more in the second half as Stout tries to make a comeback.
*The Blugolds' MVP so far? Heather Witt. The point guard has a game-high 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting, inclduing 2-for-3 on 3-pointers. She also has four steals. While the Blue Devils are collapsing on Michelle Burns and company in the post, Witt is taking advantage of open lanes and open jumpers. Look for the Blue Devils to make a small adjustment to try to take Witt out of the game.
*It's a sloppy game to a point. Both teams have 16 turnovers in the first half alone, which is way too many for either coaches' liking.
- John Casper Jr.
Some initial first-half observations:
*A big reason why UW-Eau Claire was picked to win the WIAC was because of its depth. Whereas the Blue Devils' starting five matches up well with the Blugolds' starting five, UW-Eau Claire definitely has the advantage on the bench. Case in point, 6-foot-2 center Ashley Anderson. Although she's only averaged 6.2 minutes per game in UW-Eau Claire's first five five contests, she's already given the Blugolds several quality minutes in the first half and has four points and one block to show for her efforts. The Blugolds can also use Missy Fremstad to spell point guard Heather Witt and not lose much intensity.
*UW-Stout needs better shot selection. The Blue Devils are shooting 26 percent from the floor, including 3-of-14 on 3-pointers. Since making 2-of-5 in the first three minutes of the game, they are 1-for-9. Unless those shots magically start falling, Stout would be best advised to make the extra pass or attack the basket.
*The Blue Devils' Charlee Edwards is a fun player to watch. She reminds me a lot of Marquette's Jerel McNeal in that she's all over the court on defense, yet can make some mistakes by being too aggressive on offense. She already has five steals, but she also has four turnovers — several on traveling violations when she's trying to make a fake. Coach Mark Thomas has pulled her off the court after a few of these turnovers, but I wouldn't be surprised if she's on the floor more in the second half as Stout tries to make a comeback.
*The Blugolds' MVP so far? Heather Witt. The point guard has a game-high 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting, inclduing 2-for-3 on 3-pointers. She also has four steals. While the Blue Devils are collapsing on Michelle Burns and company in the post, Witt is taking advantage of open lanes and open jumpers. Look for the Blue Devils to make a small adjustment to try to take Witt out of the game.
*It's a sloppy game to a point. Both teams have 16 turnovers in the first half alone, which is way too many for either coaches' liking.
- John Casper Jr.
Blugolds weather early storm
As is usually the case when you're the underdog, UW-Stout has come out thus far as though it has nothing to lose.
The Blue Devils are letting it fly on the offensive end, and made a couple of early 3-pointers to take an 8-2 lead.
But UW-Eau Claire has since settled down on the offensive end and has run more of its offense through post player Michelle Burns. Point guard Heather Witt has scored the Blugolds last seven points, and UW-Eau Claire has a 24-14 lead with 6:36 left in the first half.
- John Casper Jr.
The Blue Devils are letting it fly on the offensive end, and made a couple of early 3-pointers to take an 8-2 lead.
But UW-Eau Claire has since settled down on the offensive end and has run more of its offense through post player Michelle Burns. Point guard Heather Witt has scored the Blugolds last seven points, and UW-Eau Claire has a 24-14 lead with 6:36 left in the first half.
- John Casper Jr.
We're live from the Johnson Fieldhouse
Greetings from the Johnson Fieldhouse on the campus of UW-Stout. We're going to be bringing you a few live updates from today's WIAC basketball doubleheader between UW-Stout and UW-Eau Claire.
The women's game tips off in less than 20 minutes, while the men are slated to tip off at 5 p.m.
Here's a few insights into the women's game:
*The last time these two teams met, it was for the WIAC title. UW-Stout won that matchup, 73-61, to advance to its third straight NCAA tournament. But things have changed since then. The Blugolds are now the top dog in the WIAC — at least according to the league's sports information directors — and the Blue Devils hope that a victory today will be a springboard to a surprising season.
*Both teams have played a strong nonconference schedule up to this point. UW-Stout (3-3) has only lost to Division II teams, while UW-Eau Claire (4-1) has a victory over a Division II opponent to its credit — St. Cloud State. UW-Stout lost to the Huskies 87-72 back on Nov. 17, while the Blugolds won their game, 86-78, on Wednesday.
*Not sure what kind of crowd we're going to have for today's game. The weather was pretty bad on my trek from Eau Claire, which I made in about 45 minutes. In case you are sitting at home with nothing to do, there's plenty of room here at this point.
I'd also like to give special thanks to Layne Pitt and the UW-Stout sports information department. If you can give a sportswriter an outlet and a wireless connection, you'll be forever in his good graces. And, as a bonus, he provided complete pregame notes. All you young SIDs out there, you can learn a few things from Layne.
Also, if you are so inclined, today's games are available to watch or listen to on the Internet. Go to the UW-Stout athletics Web site to learn more.
- John Casper Jr.
The women's game tips off in less than 20 minutes, while the men are slated to tip off at 5 p.m.
Here's a few insights into the women's game:
*The last time these two teams met, it was for the WIAC title. UW-Stout won that matchup, 73-61, to advance to its third straight NCAA tournament. But things have changed since then. The Blugolds are now the top dog in the WIAC — at least according to the league's sports information directors — and the Blue Devils hope that a victory today will be a springboard to a surprising season.
*Both teams have played a strong nonconference schedule up to this point. UW-Stout (3-3) has only lost to Division II teams, while UW-Eau Claire (4-1) has a victory over a Division II opponent to its credit — St. Cloud State. UW-Stout lost to the Huskies 87-72 back on Nov. 17, while the Blugolds won their game, 86-78, on Wednesday.
*Not sure what kind of crowd we're going to have for today's game. The weather was pretty bad on my trek from Eau Claire, which I made in about 45 minutes. In case you are sitting at home with nothing to do, there's plenty of room here at this point.
I'd also like to give special thanks to Layne Pitt and the UW-Stout sports information department. If you can give a sportswriter an outlet and a wireless connection, you'll be forever in his good graces. And, as a bonus, he provided complete pregame notes. All you young SIDs out there, you can learn a few things from Layne.
Also, if you are so inclined, today's games are available to watch or listen to on the Internet. Go to the UW-Stout athletics Web site to learn more.
- John Casper Jr.
Friday, November 30, 2007
More from North and Rice Lake
All right, my article is done and the paper has been sent to the printer. Friday's Big Rivers Conference boys basketball opener between Rice Lake and Eau Claire North certainly lived up to expectations, as the game went down to the wire.
Here's a few thoughts and observations:
* Defensively, North's added height makes it very difficult on opponents. Having Andy Kleist at the top of the 1-3-1 zone is a great fit. Kleist is 6-foot-5 and has quick reactions -- he's a soccer goalkeeper and will be one of the BRC's better 'keepers next season. His height and length makes it difficult to throw passes over him and makes it easy for the three players in the middle -- two of them 6-foot-7 Tyler Brown and 6-foot-11 Evan Anderson -- to move side to side.
* North really didn't make feeding the post a priority. Brown and Anderson combined for seven field goal attempts and you could count on one hand the number of entry passes to the post. Brown scored 16 points but half came at the free-throw line. He was 4-for-6 from the field, but was quite active overall with 12 rebounds. Anderson went 1-for-3 from the field and 2-for-4 from the line. He was fouled on a pair of dunk attempts. Anderson and Brown did run one nice high-low combination. That's something that could be a big part of the offense.
* 6-foot-5 Andrew Lochmann started the game guarding Anderson, with 5-foot-10 Tim Hovde on Brown. Lochmann was very impressive, scoring 22 points with seven rebounds and four assists. You can read more on him this season's first Inside Hoops, which will appear in next Thursday's Leader-Telegram. So be sure to look for that.
*It's almost scary how similar Alex Culy is to his older brother Dan on the court. They have that same calm demeanor no matter what the score is. They also can shoot the lights out. The younger Culy hit six 3s against North.
* North mixed between man and zone in the game. After made baskets, the Huskies would put on a half-court trap and then run the 1-3-1. After misses, it usually was straight up man. North switched to straight man with some trap in the closing minutes -- clearly coach Pat Hammond didn't want to give Culy any more open looks at 3s.
- Joe Ziemer
Here's a few thoughts and observations:
* Defensively, North's added height makes it very difficult on opponents. Having Andy Kleist at the top of the 1-3-1 zone is a great fit. Kleist is 6-foot-5 and has quick reactions -- he's a soccer goalkeeper and will be one of the BRC's better 'keepers next season. His height and length makes it difficult to throw passes over him and makes it easy for the three players in the middle -- two of them 6-foot-7 Tyler Brown and 6-foot-11 Evan Anderson -- to move side to side.
* North really didn't make feeding the post a priority. Brown and Anderson combined for seven field goal attempts and you could count on one hand the number of entry passes to the post. Brown scored 16 points but half came at the free-throw line. He was 4-for-6 from the field, but was quite active overall with 12 rebounds. Anderson went 1-for-3 from the field and 2-for-4 from the line. He was fouled on a pair of dunk attempts. Anderson and Brown did run one nice high-low combination. That's something that could be a big part of the offense.
* 6-foot-5 Andrew Lochmann started the game guarding Anderson, with 5-foot-10 Tim Hovde on Brown. Lochmann was very impressive, scoring 22 points with seven rebounds and four assists. You can read more on him this season's first Inside Hoops, which will appear in next Thursday's Leader-Telegram. So be sure to look for that.
*It's almost scary how similar Alex Culy is to his older brother Dan on the court. They have that same calm demeanor no matter what the score is. They also can shoot the lights out. The younger Culy hit six 3s against North.
* North mixed between man and zone in the game. After made baskets, the Huskies would put on a half-court trap and then run the 1-3-1. After misses, it usually was straight up man. North switched to straight man with some trap in the closing minutes -- clearly coach Pat Hammond didn't want to give Culy any more open looks at 3s.
- Joe Ziemer
Watch Memorial boys highlights
The Eau Claire Memorial boys basketball team faced a tough test for its first game of the season when it played super sophomore Marquis Mason and Madison East.
East won the game, 60-43, behind 37 points from Mason, who is a Marquette and Wisconsin recruit. Some video highlights are available on www.wishoops.net. While there are a few nice Memorial highlights, my favorite is a Mason dunk at about the 1:55 mark.
Enjoy:
- John Casper Jr.
East won the game, 60-43, behind 37 points from Mason, who is a Marquette and Wisconsin recruit. Some video highlights are available on www.wishoops.net. While there are a few nice Memorial highlights, my favorite is a Mason dunk at about the 1:55 mark.
Enjoy:
- John Casper Jr.
Osseo-Fairchild in midseason form
November isn't over just yet, but there is at least one girls basketball team that appears ready for March.
The Osseo-Fairchild girls were beyond impressive in a 60-36 victory over Altoona on Thursday night. Although the Chieftains have a first-year coach in Matt Korger, they don't seem to have any trouble getting adjusted.
"Coach (Tony) Calo and I seem to agree on defensive philosophies," Korger said of his predecessor. "We both preach aggressive man-to-man defense."
And while the defense was tight, the offense was even better. Osseo-Fairchild was flawless in transition — something that usually eludes teams at this point of the season.
Other observations from the game:
*I can see where opposing coaches grow tired of coaching against the Gregoriches of Altoona. Both Brittany and Tiffany are tough as nails and treat every rebound or loose ball as a fast-break opportunity. Altoona is going to be a fun team to watch as the season develops.
*UW-Eau Claire women's basketball coach Tonja Englund was in the house, but I didn't see her speak to any players after the game. Could Tiffany Gregorich be a possible recruit?
*We have an early leader in the "Casper's Favorite Band" category. Altoona's band can bring it. I especially liked the "Bang on the Drum All Day" rendition after the Packers kicked a field goal in the first quarter of their 37-27 loss to the Cowboys. Of course, the song is only played after touchdowns at Lambeau Field, but it was a nice touch nonetheless.
- John Casper Jr.
The Osseo-Fairchild girls were beyond impressive in a 60-36 victory over Altoona on Thursday night. Although the Chieftains have a first-year coach in Matt Korger, they don't seem to have any trouble getting adjusted.
"Coach (Tony) Calo and I seem to agree on defensive philosophies," Korger said of his predecessor. "We both preach aggressive man-to-man defense."
And while the defense was tight, the offense was even better. Osseo-Fairchild was flawless in transition — something that usually eludes teams at this point of the season.
Other observations from the game:
*I can see where opposing coaches grow tired of coaching against the Gregoriches of Altoona. Both Brittany and Tiffany are tough as nails and treat every rebound or loose ball as a fast-break opportunity. Altoona is going to be a fun team to watch as the season develops.
*UW-Eau Claire women's basketball coach Tonja Englund was in the house, but I didn't see her speak to any players after the game. Could Tiffany Gregorich be a possible recruit?
*We have an early leader in the "Casper's Favorite Band" category. Altoona's band can bring it. I especially liked the "Bang on the Drum All Day" rendition after the Packers kicked a field goal in the first quarter of their 37-27 loss to the Cowboys. Of course, the song is only played after touchdowns at Lambeau Field, but it was a nice touch nonetheless.
- John Casper Jr.
Friday, November 23, 2007
All but over
This game basically is in the books. The Blugolds lead 96-35 with 1:57 to go. I'm on deadline, so I'll hustle back to the office and give y'all something to read in the newspaper Saturday. Make sure to check out the L-T for expanded coverage. Thanks for staying with me.
-Justin Harings
It's halftime
The UW-Eau Claire women's basketball team has broken the 100-point mark 11 times in its history. It looks like the Blugolds could be on their way to No. 12. UW-EC leads North Park 56-21 at halftime here at Zorn Arena.
All 16 players on the Blugolds roster already have seen floor time. Eleven of them have scored points. Most notably, Amanda Zenner has scored 15 points and Heather Witt has 13. Also, the Vikings have committed 22 turnovers. The Blugolds have made two-thirds of their field-goal attempts.
The second half starts in 8 minutes. Keep checking back to see how things unfold.
All 16 players on the Blugolds roster already have seen floor time. Eleven of them have scored points. Most notably, Amanda Zenner has scored 15 points and Heather Witt has 13. Also, the Vikings have committed 22 turnovers. The Blugolds have made two-thirds of their field-goal attempts.
The second half starts in 8 minutes. Keep checking back to see how things unfold.
-Justin Harings
Blugolds up early
The UW-Eau Claire women's basketball team is up 26-7 on North Park University (Ill.) with 12 minutes, 27 seconds to play in the first half. Quite frankly, the score doesn't even seem that close.
The Blugolds kicked off the game with 12-point run, spurred by a pair of steals and six early points from junior Heather Witt. Senior Amanda Zenner is the Blugolds' leading scorer right now with eight points.
The transition game is where the Blugolds are doing major damage tonight. The Vikings already have showed time and time again that they can not handle the Blugolds pressure defense or contain their aggressive offense. The Vikings already have committed 11 turnovers. Something will have to change if the Vikings want to make a game of this one.
The Blugolds kicked off the game with 12-point run, spurred by a pair of steals and six early points from junior Heather Witt. Senior Amanda Zenner is the Blugolds' leading scorer right now with eight points.
The transition game is where the Blugolds are doing major damage tonight. The Vikings already have showed time and time again that they can not handle the Blugolds pressure defense or contain their aggressive offense. The Vikings already have committed 11 turnovers. Something will have to change if the Vikings want to make a game of this one.
-Justin Harings
Winner gets Chicago
The University of Chicago just wrapped up a 66-45 victory over Edgewood College. Jamie Stinson led Chicago with 12 points, and Molly Hackney had 11 points and eight rebounds. The Maroons play the winner of the next game, UW-Eau Claire vs. North Park University (Ill.).
Speaking of UW-Eau Claire, the players are on the floor now. According to the scoreboard clock, we've got roughly 28 minutes before tipoff. Stay tuned.
Speaking of UW-Eau Claire, the players are on the floor now. According to the scoreboard clock, we've got roughly 28 minutes before tipoff. Stay tuned.
-Justin Harings
Greetings from Zorn Arena
I've settled in courtside at Zorn Arena on the UW-Eau Claire campus, ready to bring you live updates on the women's college basketball game between No. 20 UW-Eau Claire (2-0) and North Park University (Ill.) (0-2). It'll be the second game of the 16th annual Thanksgiving Showcase. Right now, the University of Chicago is absolutely taking it to Edgewood College, 62-38, with roughly 6 minutes to play. The winner of the Blugolds-Vikings game will get the University of Chicago in the championship game at 8 p.m. Saturday. The loser plays Edgewood at 6 p.m. that day. All games are here at Zorn.
Tipoff is about half an hour away, so here are a few pregame notes to hold you until then.
*The Blugolds have won the Showcase three years in a row. They beat Morningside College (Iowa) 74-65 in last year's championship game.
*Here's some further information on North Park, which the Blugolds never have played before.
-North Park is a NCAA Division III school located in Chicago and has an enrollment of 3,100.
-The Vikings hail from the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW).
-They're 0-2 so far this season, and neither game has been close. They lost to Concordia 82-42 before losing to Edgewood 77-43. Remember that Edgewood is getting ripped by the University of Chicago, for whatever that's worth.
-Their coach is Jack Surridge, who is in his 12th season.
-The Vikings only have nine players listed on their roster -- two seniors, two juniors, one sophomore and four freshmen.
I'll check back in periodically throughout tonight's contest. Hopefully, everyone had a nice Thanksgiving and stress-free Black Friday.
Tipoff is about half an hour away, so here are a few pregame notes to hold you until then.
*The Blugolds have won the Showcase three years in a row. They beat Morningside College (Iowa) 74-65 in last year's championship game.
*Here's some further information on North Park, which the Blugolds never have played before.
-North Park is a NCAA Division III school located in Chicago and has an enrollment of 3,100.
-The Vikings hail from the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW).
-They're 0-2 so far this season, and neither game has been close. They lost to Concordia 82-42 before losing to Edgewood 77-43. Remember that Edgewood is getting ripped by the University of Chicago, for whatever that's worth.
-Their coach is Jack Surridge, who is in his 12th season.
-The Vikings only have nine players listed on their roster -- two seniors, two juniors, one sophomore and four freshmen.
I'll check back in periodically throughout tonight's contest. Hopefully, everyone had a nice Thanksgiving and stress-free Black Friday.
-Justin Harings
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Packers wrap up
Hey everyone,
I just finished up my work for the night and before I get some food and hit the road, I thought I'd share some postgame notes and quotes that you may not find in Monday's Leader-Telegram with you.
First the notes:
*The Packers now are 7-3 all-time against the Panthers.
*The Packers have won 13 of their past 14 games -- including seven of eight -- at Lambeau Field.
*Tramon Williams' 94-yard punt return touchdown was the second longest in team history. Steven Odom had a 95-yarder Nov. 10, 1974 against the Bears. Mark Lee (whose starting lineup figure I definitely have) also had a 94-yarder against the Giants on Nov. 8, 1981. Both of those came at Milwaukee County Stadium, so Williams' is the longest at Lambeau by a Packers player.
*Koren Robinson's 67-yard kickoff return to begin the second half was the team's longest this season.
*Donald Driver has caught a pass in 90 consecutive games.
There are a ton more, but I'm really hungry. Now onto the quotes. I've got plenty -- some advice, don't try to transcribe a 9-minute-plus Brett Favre press conference. It's just not worth it. I'll be saving some for a possible Packers feature in the next couple days, so to see those, you'll have to buy a newspaper or checkout leadertelegram.com.
Here are a few favorites:
*Corey Williams on his first sack of Vinny Testaverde: “I got a good get off. The old quarterback, he was holding the ball. I wasn’t expecting him to hold the ball as long as he did. ... I just tried to get it out of his hands.”
*Tramon Williams on what he was thinking during his punt return, which by the way was his first ever for a touchdown: “Don’t get caught by no big guys. That’s it. I just ran. I saw I had blockers.”
*Ryan Grant on the offense's balance: “The more balanced, the more versatile you are, it keeps defenses honest. They can’t play you one way. It’s even better to get the win.”
*A.J. Hawk on the team's good fortune this season: “Every team that’s successful, it seems like the breaks usually go their way. We’ve had that for the most part this season. A lot of them have gone our way. We need to make sure we keep that going.”
*Al Harris on why rookie Aaron Rouse calls Charles Woodson "Mr. Woodson" but doesn't call him "Mr. Harris.": “I’m just dirty.”
*Harris on whether he believed they'd be 9-1: “I did. We just trying to make you guys believe.”
*Brett Favre on Vinny Testaverde: “I thought Vinny played well – moved around great towards the end. I don’t think I could do it – or play as well as he did at 44.”
*Favre on tight end Donald Lee: “I don’t know if there’s a harder worker on this team. I don’t know if there’s a more determined player on this team. That pays off. That really pays off. I’ve seen him work over and over again at the things he feels he needs to get better at. Most importantly, is catches the ball when the ball’s thrown to him. The trust factor comes when you see guys making plays. For guys who know Donald in that locker room, they’ll tell you the same thing. He’s determined to improve. Some of the plays he made today were outstanding. He can run, he can fly. To have a tight end who can run like that, he’s a little undersized but he makes up for it with determination. He’s making my game better.”
*Charles Woodson on the team's good fortune: “Sometimes you need a little luck out there. Luck favors the prepared.” (This by the way, is very similar to "Chance favors the prepared mind," which is the favorite saying of the villains in Under Siege 2, starring Steven Seagal).
OK, that's all I've got. Thanks for hanging with me today. I'm going to get some food and hit the road. See you in the 715.
-Joe Ziemer
I just finished up my work for the night and before I get some food and hit the road, I thought I'd share some postgame notes and quotes that you may not find in Monday's Leader-Telegram with you.
First the notes:
*The Packers now are 7-3 all-time against the Panthers.
*The Packers have won 13 of their past 14 games -- including seven of eight -- at Lambeau Field.
*Tramon Williams' 94-yard punt return touchdown was the second longest in team history. Steven Odom had a 95-yarder Nov. 10, 1974 against the Bears. Mark Lee (whose starting lineup figure I definitely have) also had a 94-yarder against the Giants on Nov. 8, 1981. Both of those came at Milwaukee County Stadium, so Williams' is the longest at Lambeau by a Packers player.
*Koren Robinson's 67-yard kickoff return to begin the second half was the team's longest this season.
*Donald Driver has caught a pass in 90 consecutive games.
There are a ton more, but I'm really hungry. Now onto the quotes. I've got plenty -- some advice, don't try to transcribe a 9-minute-plus Brett Favre press conference. It's just not worth it. I'll be saving some for a possible Packers feature in the next couple days, so to see those, you'll have to buy a newspaper or checkout leadertelegram.com.
Here are a few favorites:
*Corey Williams on his first sack of Vinny Testaverde: “I got a good get off. The old quarterback, he was holding the ball. I wasn’t expecting him to hold the ball as long as he did. ... I just tried to get it out of his hands.”
*Tramon Williams on what he was thinking during his punt return, which by the way was his first ever for a touchdown: “Don’t get caught by no big guys. That’s it. I just ran. I saw I had blockers.”
*Ryan Grant on the offense's balance: “The more balanced, the more versatile you are, it keeps defenses honest. They can’t play you one way. It’s even better to get the win.”
*A.J. Hawk on the team's good fortune this season: “Every team that’s successful, it seems like the breaks usually go their way. We’ve had that for the most part this season. A lot of them have gone our way. We need to make sure we keep that going.”
*Al Harris on why rookie Aaron Rouse calls Charles Woodson "Mr. Woodson" but doesn't call him "Mr. Harris.": “I’m just dirty.”
*Harris on whether he believed they'd be 9-1: “I did. We just trying to make you guys believe.”
*Brett Favre on Vinny Testaverde: “I thought Vinny played well – moved around great towards the end. I don’t think I could do it – or play as well as he did at 44.”
*Favre on tight end Donald Lee: “I don’t know if there’s a harder worker on this team. I don’t know if there’s a more determined player on this team. That pays off. That really pays off. I’ve seen him work over and over again at the things he feels he needs to get better at. Most importantly, is catches the ball when the ball’s thrown to him. The trust factor comes when you see guys making plays. For guys who know Donald in that locker room, they’ll tell you the same thing. He’s determined to improve. Some of the plays he made today were outstanding. He can run, he can fly. To have a tight end who can run like that, he’s a little undersized but he makes up for it with determination. He’s making my game better.”
*Charles Woodson on the team's good fortune: “Sometimes you need a little luck out there. Luck favors the prepared.” (This by the way, is very similar to "Chance favors the prepared mind," which is the favorite saying of the villains in Under Siege 2, starring Steven Seagal).
OK, that's all I've got. Thanks for hanging with me today. I'm going to get some food and hit the road. See you in the 715.
-Joe Ziemer
Put it in the books
There's less than 8 minutes left and the Packers have a comfortable 28-10 lead. I've run out of material -- I need to save something for my column -- so I'll bid y'all adieu until I finish writing. I'll check back in after I visit the locker room and finish writing.
I should not have gotten the chilli ...
-Joe Ziemer
I should not have gotten the chilli ...
-Joe Ziemer
We're through three
After a very slow first half, the third quarter mercifully flew by.
Vinny managed to get the Panthers into the end zone. It's a three-possession game!
The Packers have the ball at midfield to start the fourth and lead 28-10.
I really have nothing to add here. Vinny's old. The Panthers are bad. The Packers look good and are on their way to a 9-1 record.
The sad thing is Carolina still has a chance to win its division. If Steve Smith doesn't get healthy, the Panthers are going to be in trouble.
Donald Lee's having a big game for the Packers. Anyone miss Bubba Franks that much?
Oh snap, I just found out the High Life guy's name. It's Windell Middlebrooks. He was just on the jumbotron leading the crowd in "Roll out the Barrel."
-Joe Ziemer
Vinny managed to get the Panthers into the end zone. It's a three-possession game!
The Packers have the ball at midfield to start the fourth and lead 28-10.
I really have nothing to add here. Vinny's old. The Panthers are bad. The Packers look good and are on their way to a 9-1 record.
The sad thing is Carolina still has a chance to win its division. If Steve Smith doesn't get healthy, the Panthers are going to be in trouble.
Donald Lee's having a big game for the Packers. Anyone miss Bubba Franks that much?
Oh snap, I just found out the High Life guy's name. It's Windell Middlebrooks. He was just on the jumbotron leading the crowd in "Roll out the Barrel."
-Joe Ziemer
Another milestone
Brett Favre just tied another one of Dan Marino's record.
After tossing an all-too-easy 12-yard touchdown to Donald Lee, Favre tied the Dolphins great with 62 career three-touchdown games.
Soulja Boy is getting a lot of play here for three reasons:
1. The kick coverage team seems to really, really, really like it.
2. The Packers offense is scoring a lot, thus leading to a lot of kickoffs.
3. The Panthers are awful.
Seriously, Vinny just threw another interception. This is the equivalent of a Butterbean undercard fight. In this case, Carolina is the insurance salesman from Toledo.
-Joe Ziemer
After tossing an all-too-easy 12-yard touchdown to Donald Lee, Favre tied the Dolphins great with 62 career three-touchdown games.
Soulja Boy is getting a lot of play here for three reasons:
1. The kick coverage team seems to really, really, really like it.
2. The Packers offense is scoring a lot, thus leading to a lot of kickoffs.
3. The Panthers are awful.
Seriously, Vinny just threw another interception. This is the equivalent of a Butterbean undercard fight. In this case, Carolina is the insurance salesman from Toledo.
-Joe Ziemer
It's halftime
After a very long first half, we're at halftime with the Packers beating down the hapless Panthers 21-3.
Carolina came away with no points on its final drive despite getting a rather dumb late hit by Nick Barnett and a pass interference call on Jarrett Bush. Corey Williams then sacked Testaverde, forcing a fumble, which Aaron Kampman recovered.
On a related note, I've thought of a few fashion trends that have come and gone while Vinny's been playing in the NFL:
*Zubaz.
*Fanny packs
*Baseball hats with draw strings on them
*Flannel shirts -- both as a grunge look and a gangsta look.
*Starter jackets
Carolina came away with no points on its final drive despite getting a rather dumb late hit by Nick Barnett and a pass interference call on Jarrett Bush. Corey Williams then sacked Testaverde, forcing a fumble, which Aaron Kampman recovered.
On a related note, I've thought of a few fashion trends that have come and gone while Vinny's been playing in the NFL:
*Zubaz.
*Fanny packs
*Baseball hats with draw strings on them
*Flannel shirts -- both as a grunge look and a gangsta look.
*Starter jackets
I'll try to think of more. E-mail me with any y'all can come up with (joe.ziemer@ecpc.com).
I'm debating whether or not I should eat the halftime chilli. I often regret it somewhere around Wittenberg on the drive back to Eau Claire.
-Joe Ziemer
Checking in
Here's a couple notes/observations from a first half that's starting to drag a bit:
*Johnny Jolly returned to the game and made a tackle, but has gone back to the locker room. No word on his condition.
*Ryan Grant continues to impress. He made a real nice cut on a 23-yard run on the Packers' last possession and just now made another good cut against the grain on a 16-yard scamper. He's been the media darling the past couple weeks but deservedly so. Grant has 10 carries for 58 yards so far.
*Vinny Testaverde has not looked sharp. His receivers haven't exactly helped him out, but Vinny's living dangerously. He could have four interceptions.
*There's not as much blaze orange in the stands as I was expecting. I think the Packers should play one game a year in blaze orange jerseys.
-Joe Ziemer
*Johnny Jolly returned to the game and made a tackle, but has gone back to the locker room. No word on his condition.
*Ryan Grant continues to impress. He made a real nice cut on a 23-yard run on the Packers' last possession and just now made another good cut against the grain on a 16-yard scamper. He's been the media darling the past couple weeks but deservedly so. Grant has 10 carries for 58 yards so far.
*Vinny Testaverde has not looked sharp. His receivers haven't exactly helped him out, but Vinny's living dangerously. He could have four interceptions.
*There's not as much blaze orange in the stands as I was expecting. I think the Packers should play one game a year in blaze orange jerseys.
-Joe Ziemer
Packers in front
As my buddy Paul just wrote me in a text message, "John Fox thought he was a smart guy for about 5 seconds."
Carolina tried the old fake field goal, pooch punt. It turned into a 94-yard touchdown return by Tramon Williams.
Johnny Jolly and Jarrett Bush had big blocks on that return. However, following the play, Jolly went to the locker room for x-rays on his right shoulder. They're telling us his return is questionable.
That leaves the Packers short-handed on the defensive line. Green Bay deactivated Colin Cole, Justin Harrell and Daniel Muir to keep all their offensive linemen active. If Jolly can't return, Cullen Jenkins may have to play inside more often.
It's now 7-3 by the way after the ageless wonder Testaverde joined the "I burned Atari Bigby deep" club to set up a John Kasay field goal.
-Joe Ziemer
Carolina tried the old fake field goal, pooch punt. It turned into a 94-yard touchdown return by Tramon Williams.
Johnny Jolly and Jarrett Bush had big blocks on that return. However, following the play, Jolly went to the locker room for x-rays on his right shoulder. They're telling us his return is questionable.
That leaves the Packers short-handed on the defensive line. Green Bay deactivated Colin Cole, Justin Harrell and Daniel Muir to keep all their offensive linemen active. If Jolly can't return, Cullen Jenkins may have to play inside more often.
It's now 7-3 by the way after the ageless wonder Testaverde joined the "I burned Atari Bigby deep" club to set up a John Kasay field goal.
-Joe Ziemer
We're ready for kickoff
Well, the Packers coverage unit just did their Soulja Boy dance, so it must be time for kickoff.
(Is it just me or has that song jumped the shark? It's only a matter of time before Chris Dodd busts that dance out at a campaign stop.).
Here's an interesting side note: the guy from the High Life commercials sang the national anthem ... in his delivery uniform from the commercial.
And after almost throwing an interception on his first pass, Vinny Testaverde was picked off by Aaron Rouse on his second attempt. This smells like a rout. I just can't see the Panthers scoring more than 14 points in this game. They have a 79-year-old man playing quarterback and no Steve Smith.
I'll be here all day, so if you have any questions/comments/suggestions, drop me a line at joe.ziemer@ecpc.com.
-Joe Ziemer
(Is it just me or has that song jumped the shark? It's only a matter of time before Chris Dodd busts that dance out at a campaign stop.).
Here's an interesting side note: the guy from the High Life commercials sang the national anthem ... in his delivery uniform from the commercial.
And after almost throwing an interception on his first pass, Vinny Testaverde was picked off by Aaron Rouse on his second attempt. This smells like a rout. I just can't see the Panthers scoring more than 14 points in this game. They have a 79-year-old man playing quarterback and no Steve Smith.
I'll be here all day, so if you have any questions/comments/suggestions, drop me a line at joe.ziemer@ecpc.com.
-Joe Ziemer
Good morning from Lambeau
Hey everyone. Good morning and greetings from Lambeau Field in balmy Green Bay, Wis. I'm all settled in and now that my fantasy football lineups have been set, I figure it's time to get at y'all with my first post of the day.
This is the second day in a row I find myself in a press box in the greater Green Bay area. This one is slightly larger, heated and has wireless Internet.
Apologies for not bringing you and extra info from the Blugolds' playoff win over St. Norbert on Saturday. I stayed the night at the Ziemer family farm in New London and one thing we don't have in the country is high-speed Internet. My patience with the Internet was exhausted about as soon as I e-mailed my gamer back to the office.
Anyway, I'll try to make it up to you with some extra insight, info and bad jokes about Vinnny Testaverde's age today.
FYI, Monty the family Collie predicted a Packers win. Then he made a bizarre and obscure joke involving Testaverde, Michael Dukakis and beeper technology.
OK, here's some info you might actually find useful -- inactives for today's game.
The Panthers have Matt Moore as their third quarterback. Also inactive are safety C.J. Wilson, guard Evan Mathis, tackle Frank Omiyale, defensive tackle Damione Lewis, defensive end Charles Johnson, linebacker Donte Curry and wide receiver Steve Smith. So, if Smith is in your fantasy football lineup, put him on the bench ASAP.
The Packers ' inactives are wide receiver Shaun Bodiford, corner Will Blackmon, safety Nick Collins, linebacker Tracy White, tight end Bubba Franks, and defensive tackles Colin Cole, Justin Harrell and Daniel Muir.
I'll check back again before kickoff. Now it's time to eat some food. Hopefully, they have fajitas.
-Joe Ziemer
This is the second day in a row I find myself in a press box in the greater Green Bay area. This one is slightly larger, heated and has wireless Internet.
Apologies for not bringing you and extra info from the Blugolds' playoff win over St. Norbert on Saturday. I stayed the night at the Ziemer family farm in New London and one thing we don't have in the country is high-speed Internet. My patience with the Internet was exhausted about as soon as I e-mailed my gamer back to the office.
Anyway, I'll try to make it up to you with some extra insight, info and bad jokes about Vinnny Testaverde's age today.
FYI, Monty the family Collie predicted a Packers win. Then he made a bizarre and obscure joke involving Testaverde, Michael Dukakis and beeper technology.
OK, here's some info you might actually find useful -- inactives for today's game.
The Panthers have Matt Moore as their third quarterback. Also inactive are safety C.J. Wilson, guard Evan Mathis, tackle Frank Omiyale, defensive tackle Damione Lewis, defensive end Charles Johnson, linebacker Donte Curry and wide receiver Steve Smith. So, if Smith is in your fantasy football lineup, put him on the bench ASAP.
The Packers ' inactives are wide receiver Shaun Bodiford, corner Will Blackmon, safety Nick Collins, linebacker Tracy White, tight end Bubba Franks, and defensive tackles Colin Cole, Justin Harrell and Daniel Muir.
I'll check back again before kickoff. Now it's time to eat some food. Hopefully, they have fajitas.
-Joe Ziemer
Saturday, November 17, 2007
OK This time I mean it.
No fooling this time, Ben Strickland just picked off Adam Weber with 56 seconds remaining to seal the game.
Again, be sure to check tomorrow's Leader-Telegram for more on the game.
-Adam Parks
Again, be sure to check tomorrow's Leader-Telegram for more on the game.
-Adam Parks
Hold the phone
So there I go predicting the game is all but over. I should have known better than that.
Minnesota's Ralph Spry corralled a tipped deep ball thrown by Adam Weber, and took it to the house for a 71-yard touchdown. The ball was intended for freshman Jimmy Thompson, a Hayward product, but was tipped by UW freshman corner Aaron Henry. The ball floated high into the air where Spry ran under it and ran for the touchdown.
The Gophers are now back within a touchdown at 41-34.
-Adam Parks
Minnesota's Ralph Spry corralled a tipped deep ball thrown by Adam Weber, and took it to the house for a 71-yard touchdown. The ball was intended for freshman Jimmy Thompson, a Hayward product, but was tipped by UW freshman corner Aaron Henry. The ball floated high into the air where Spry ran under it and ran for the touchdown.
The Gophers are now back within a touchdown at 41-34.
-Adam Parks
Heading down
Looks like it's all locked up, but here's a few last minute updates before I head down for interviews:
-Zach Brown just may have put the game out of reach with his second touchdown of the day, a 4-yard touchdown run with 5:11 left to play. For the day Brown has 27 carries for 248 yards, more than twice his previous best of 108 yards he accomplished last weekend against Michigan.
- Steve Johnson recovered a muffed punt return by Minnesota's Harold Howell. Johnson covered up the ball at the Minnesota 15-yard line with less than six minutes to play to set up the touchdown.
- Eric Decker got the Gophers within a touchdown on a 4-yard touchdown pass, it was his fifth catch of the day. Decker, who has been shadowed by junior Jack Ikegwuonu for most of the game, has 121 yards on the day.
Be sure to check tomorrow's Leader-Telegram for more on the game.
-Adam Parks
-Zach Brown just may have put the game out of reach with his second touchdown of the day, a 4-yard touchdown run with 5:11 left to play. For the day Brown has 27 carries for 248 yards, more than twice his previous best of 108 yards he accomplished last weekend against Michigan.
- Steve Johnson recovered a muffed punt return by Minnesota's Harold Howell. Johnson covered up the ball at the Minnesota 15-yard line with less than six minutes to play to set up the touchdown.
- Eric Decker got the Gophers within a touchdown on a 4-yard touchdown pass, it was his fifth catch of the day. Decker, who has been shadowed by junior Jack Ikegwuonu for most of the game, has 121 yards on the day.
Be sure to check tomorrow's Leader-Telegram for more on the game.
-Adam Parks
Beckum hurt
Bad news Badgers fans, tight end Travis Beckum is lying on the Metrodome field after scoring a touchdown. Beckum was writhing in pain and kicking his feet feverently after the play. Beckum landed awkwardly on his right arm while reaching over the goal line for the score.
He walked off the field under his own power.
The score is now 34-20 Wisconsin.
-Adam Parks
He walked off the field under his own power.
The score is now 34-20 Wisconsin.
-Adam Parks
Third quarter recap
With the third quarter coming to a close here's a few notes for you to digest (along with that cold slice of pizza you just grabbed off the table). The game is currently tied 20-20 with Wisconsin on the Minnesota 1-yard line. The Minnesota band is playing lBon Jovi's "Living on a Prayer". I'll let you make your own assumption as to why.
- For the second time today, the Badgers offense sputtered in the red zone. Wisconsin drove all the way to the Minnesota xx yard line before having to settle for a Taylor Mehlhaff xx-yard field goal. While Mehlhaff is probably grateful for the opportunity to flush his earlier miss from his mind, I'm sure he'd rather be kicking extra points.
-Minnesota tied the game on a touchdown run by Duane Bennett, the Gophers got a pair of second chances after a holding call and a pass interference call kept the drive alive.
- Zach Brown is at it again, this time churning out a 60-yard run courtesy of a couple of key pull blocks by Garrett Graham and Andy Kemp. His three quarter total is now 208 yards.
-There was a bit of bad news on the Brown run. Freshman guard John Moffitt was helped off the field by trainers on the play. In his stead, junior Andy Kemp was moved over to right guard and freshman Bill Nagy was inserted at left guard.
-Adam Parks
- For the second time today, the Badgers offense sputtered in the red zone. Wisconsin drove all the way to the Minnesota xx yard line before having to settle for a Taylor Mehlhaff xx-yard field goal. While Mehlhaff is probably grateful for the opportunity to flush his earlier miss from his mind, I'm sure he'd rather be kicking extra points.
-Minnesota tied the game on a touchdown run by Duane Bennett, the Gophers got a pair of second chances after a holding call and a pass interference call kept the drive alive.
- Zach Brown is at it again, this time churning out a 60-yard run courtesy of a couple of key pull blocks by Garrett Graham and Andy Kemp. His three quarter total is now 208 yards.
-There was a bit of bad news on the Brown run. Freshman guard John Moffitt was helped off the field by trainers on the play. In his stead, junior Andy Kemp was moved over to right guard and freshman Bill Nagy was inserted at left guard.
-Adam Parks
Welcome Home David
David Gilreath continues to make the most out of his return to his homestate. Gilreath returned the first punt of the second half 51 yards, setting up a 17-yard Zach Brown touchdown run off the left side. Gabe Carimi sealed off the defensive line while tight end Travis Beckum, not known for his blocking, sealed off the Gophers' Dominique Barber to open the hole.
In other news, Donovan returned to action on the scoring drive.
-Adam Parks
In other news, Donovan returned to action on the scoring drive.
-Adam Parks
Halftime roundup
There was no shortage of excitement in the half's final 1:30.
After holding Minny to a three-and-out with 57 seconds to play, UM's Justin Kucek boomed a 51-yard punt only to see it returned by Wisconsin punt returner, and New Hope, Minn. native, David Gilreath 56 yards.
Backup quarterback Allen Evridge then made an appearance on UW's final series, a three-and-out, before Taylor Mehlhaff missed his second field goal of the game. Mehlhaff clanked a 46-yard try off the right upright.
A couple other observations:
- No word on why Donovan didn't come out for the team's final offensive series. The senior did dive head-first with his hands extended over his head, into the endzone for UW's touchdown, perhaps re-injuring the hand on the play. When we get more news I'll let you know.
- On Shane Carter's second-quarter interception, junior cornerback Jack Ikegwuonu was not on the field. That left UW with Minneapolis native Kim Royston, Josh Nettles, Ben Strickland and Aaron Henry as the dime cornerbacks in the package.
- Zach Brown just keeps getting better and better the more he sees the ball. The freshman is averaging 8.2 yards per carry after the first half, and has aleady amassed 106 yards rushing. He also displayed some shiftiness on his 64-yard run, faking out a pair of Minnesota would-be tacklers on the run.
- Minnesota quarterback Adam Weber has rushed for 74 yards on the day, the second-most yards by a quarterback against Wisconsin this season. Illinois' Juice Williams ran for 92 in a 26-31 loss for Wisconsin.
- Wisconsin has struggled to find a rhythm in the passing game, completing only three of nine attmepts. All three completions have gone to junior tight end Travis Beckum for 43 yards.
-Adam Parks
After holding Minny to a three-and-out with 57 seconds to play, UM's Justin Kucek boomed a 51-yard punt only to see it returned by Wisconsin punt returner, and New Hope, Minn. native, David Gilreath 56 yards.
Backup quarterback Allen Evridge then made an appearance on UW's final series, a three-and-out, before Taylor Mehlhaff missed his second field goal of the game. Mehlhaff clanked a 46-yard try off the right upright.
A couple other observations:
- No word on why Donovan didn't come out for the team's final offensive series. The senior did dive head-first with his hands extended over his head, into the endzone for UW's touchdown, perhaps re-injuring the hand on the play. When we get more news I'll let you know.
- On Shane Carter's second-quarter interception, junior cornerback Jack Ikegwuonu was not on the field. That left UW with Minneapolis native Kim Royston, Josh Nettles, Ben Strickland and Aaron Henry as the dime cornerbacks in the package.
- Zach Brown just keeps getting better and better the more he sees the ball. The freshman is averaging 8.2 yards per carry after the first half, and has aleady amassed 106 yards rushing. He also displayed some shiftiness on his 64-yard run, faking out a pair of Minnesota would-be tacklers on the run.
- Minnesota quarterback Adam Weber has rushed for 74 yards on the day, the second-most yards by a quarterback against Wisconsin this season. Illinois' Juice Williams ran for 92 in a 26-31 loss for Wisconsin.
- Wisconsin has struggled to find a rhythm in the passing game, completing only three of nine attmepts. All three completions have gone to junior tight end Travis Beckum for 43 yards.
-Adam Parks
Donovan finds the end zone
The battle of the scrambling quarterbacks continues here at the Metrodome. This time, Tyler Donovan capped a 10 play, 70-yard drive with an 8-yard touchdown run to cut the Minnesota lead to 13-10.
Taylor Mehlhaff missed a 39-yard field goald wide left earlier in the quarter, otherwise Wisconisn could be headed into halftime knotted up with the Gophers.
There's only 1:30 left in the half, I'll check back in at halftime with some more thoughts.
-Adam Parks
Taylor Mehlhaff missed a 39-yard field goald wide left earlier in the quarter, otherwise Wisconisn could be headed into halftime knotted up with the Gophers.
There's only 1:30 left in the half, I'll check back in at halftime with some more thoughts.
-Adam Parks
Minnesota pads the lead
The Wisconsin defense bailed out Donovan, holding the Gophers to a Joel Monroe 24-yard field goal after the turnover. Minny now leads 13-3.
And just as I move to hit the post button, Zach Brown busts up the gut for a 64-yard run down to the Minnesota 23-yard line. Looks like the Badgers are back in business.
-Adam Parks
And just as I move to hit the post button, Zach Brown busts up the gut for a 64-yard run down to the Minnesota 23-yard line. Looks like the Badgers are back in business.
-Adam Parks
Minnesota leads
This was going to be a first-quarter recap, but since the Gophers couldn't wait to find the endzone, we'll just change it up.
Weber found Eric Decker on a slant route for a 22-yard Gopher touchdown. Minnesota now leads 10-3.
And now, since I can't type as fast as the action changes, Tyler Donovan's first pass on Wisconsin's ensuing possession was picked off by Freshman Kyle Theret. Donovan was trying to hit senior Paul Hubbard on an out route, but left the ball on Hubbard's back shoulder where Theret jumped the ball for the pick. Typical rivalry game.
-Adam Parks
Weber found Eric Decker on a slant route for a 22-yard Gopher touchdown. Minnesota now leads 10-3.
And now, since I can't type as fast as the action changes, Tyler Donovan's first pass on Wisconsin's ensuing possession was picked off by Freshman Kyle Theret. Donovan was trying to hit senior Paul Hubbard on an out route, but left the ball on Hubbard's back shoulder where Theret jumped the ball for the pick. Typical rivalry game.
-Adam Parks
Tie Game
The Gophers' Joel Monroe drilled a 47-yard field goal to knot up the game at 3-3 with 5:27 left in the first quarter. Minnesota drove 59 yards, thanks in large part to the rushing of quarterback Adam Weber, who racked up 48 yards rushing on four carries.
On a side note, there's still plenty of seats available here at he Metrodome, and not just nose bleed seats either, for anyone who wants to trek to Minneapolis and catch the second half.
On a side note, there's still plenty of seats available here at he Metrodome, and not just nose bleed seats either, for anyone who wants to trek to Minneapolis and catch the second half.
Badgers take lead, starters notes
Taylor Mehlhaff opened up the scoring for Wisconsin with a 29-yard Field goal from the right hash.
On the ensuing kickoff, senior Paul Standring, UW's backup punter who's been playing on the punt and kickoff coverage units, pulled up lame on the play. He was helped off the field by trainers.
Lastly, one small surprise in the starting lineup defensively, with Culmer St. Jean getting the start at Mike linebacker instead of Elijah Hodge. Freshman Kirk DeCremer and Aaron Henry get the starts again at defensive end and cornerback respectively.
-Adam Parks
On the ensuing kickoff, senior Paul Standring, UW's backup punter who's been playing on the punt and kickoff coverage units, pulled up lame on the play. He was helped off the field by trainers.
Lastly, one small surprise in the starting lineup defensively, with Culmer St. Jean getting the start at Mike linebacker instead of Elijah Hodge. Freshman Kirk DeCremer and Aaron Henry get the starts again at defensive end and cornerback respectively.
-Adam Parks
Starters update
A quick look at the offense shows Donovan is starting at quarterback and freshman Zach Brown getting another start at tailback. John Moffit gets another start at left guard and for the second week in a row, Eric Vanden Huevel is out of action. No big surprise on any of these personnel decisions, though after looking at Donovan's hand following last week's game, I've got to admit I'm impressed by his toughness.
-Adam Parks
-Adam Parks
Blog at your own risk
Alright, I'll admit it, I just jumped up when the University of Minnesota lit off some fireworks as the team ran out of the tunnel. That's what I get for trying to do some research instead of paying attention.
Lesson? Never take your eyes off the field.
But my real question is why in the world are they lighting off fireworks in the first place? Isn't it a little early to be celebrating? But then again what do I know.
-Adam Parks
Lesson? Never take your eyes off the field.
But my real question is why in the world are they lighting off fireworks in the first place? Isn't it a little early to be celebrating? But then again what do I know.
-Adam Parks
We're live from Minneapolis
Welcome to your first-hand view from the press box for today's Big Ten finale between Wisconsin and Minnesota. It's about half an hour to kickoff and both teams are getting warmed up on the field.
For the second week in a row this writer is feeling a bit nostalgic up the box. Last week, if you recall, I was reminiscing about the great John Stocco sneak I witnessed during my last Wisconsin/Michigan experience. This week, the trip down memory lane shifts to my trip here a few years back when Jonathan Casillas blocked a Justin Kucek punt that was recovered in the endzone for a touchdown. I'm sure you all remember that, for me, I remember the guy in the stands in front of me losing his beer he was yelling so loud.
But enough of the trip down memory lane, here's a few notes about today's matchup:
- Tyler Donovan is suited up and was throwing during warmups. He didn't appear to be favoring his hand, but then again, it is just warmups.
-Wisconsin has dominated the Football Bowl Subdivision's (Formerly Division I-A) most-played series in recent years, winning 10 of the last 12 meetings and four of the last five at the Metrodome.
- Just in case there wasn't enough fuel in this rivalry fire, the Badgers received a verbal commitment from Brendan Kelly this week. Kelly, who hails from the Twin Cities suburb of Eden Prairie, was originally a Minnesota recruit before changing his mind earlier this month.
- UW assistant coach Kerry Cooks was an assistant for the Gophers in 2005.
- It's senior day for Minnesota, which means it's the end of the road for 16 Gophers players.
- We're now about 10 minutes to game time by the time I write this note, and there's still quite a few seats empty here in Minneapolis.
-Adam Parks
For the second week in a row this writer is feeling a bit nostalgic up the box. Last week, if you recall, I was reminiscing about the great John Stocco sneak I witnessed during my last Wisconsin/Michigan experience. This week, the trip down memory lane shifts to my trip here a few years back when Jonathan Casillas blocked a Justin Kucek punt that was recovered in the endzone for a touchdown. I'm sure you all remember that, for me, I remember the guy in the stands in front of me losing his beer he was yelling so loud.
But enough of the trip down memory lane, here's a few notes about today's matchup:
- Tyler Donovan is suited up and was throwing during warmups. He didn't appear to be favoring his hand, but then again, it is just warmups.
-Wisconsin has dominated the Football Bowl Subdivision's (Formerly Division I-A) most-played series in recent years, winning 10 of the last 12 meetings and four of the last five at the Metrodome.
- Just in case there wasn't enough fuel in this rivalry fire, the Badgers received a verbal commitment from Brendan Kelly this week. Kelly, who hails from the Twin Cities suburb of Eden Prairie, was originally a Minnesota recruit before changing his mind earlier this month.
- UW assistant coach Kerry Cooks was an assistant for the Gophers in 2005.
- It's senior day for Minnesota, which means it's the end of the road for 16 Gophers players.
- We're now about 10 minutes to game time by the time I write this note, and there's still quite a few seats empty here in Minneapolis.
-Adam Parks
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Martin was injured
I've been slowly plugging away at my game story, column and notes for tomorrow's paper, but I thought I'd take a quick break to share some of what I learned during postgame interviews following Eleva-Strum's 41-6 victory over Southwestern in the WIAA Division 7 state championship game.
* Blake Martin was pretty banged up, as were several Southwestern starters. Coach Dave Wills said his QB wasn't able to lift his arm above his shoulder, which obviously makes throwing a pass very difficult. That led to several passes that had more air underneath them than they should, and probably was the main reason he threw three interceptions Thursday after throwing only 12 all season. Starting running back Chris Brant was also injured, and the Wildcats were already without running back Nathan Reuter, which meant they were down to their third running back.
* Many of the Eleva-Strum players spoke of the bittersweet feeling that comes with any season coming to a close. While they are obviously happy for the state title, this is the last time that many of them will put on a football uniform. It's a very tight-knit group, and that was easy to see following the game.
* The Cardinals also hope to turn silver into gold in March. Eleva-Strum lost in last year's WIAA Division 4 state basketball title game to Randolph. Practice started Monday, but with virtually the entire team still playing football, coach Rich Roginski (who is also an assistant football coach) will hold off on hoops practice until Tuesday. Eleva-Strum is the top-ranked team in Division 4 in the Wisconsin Basketball Yearbook preseason poll.
- John Casper Jr.
* Blake Martin was pretty banged up, as were several Southwestern starters. Coach Dave Wills said his QB wasn't able to lift his arm above his shoulder, which obviously makes throwing a pass very difficult. That led to several passes that had more air underneath them than they should, and probably was the main reason he threw three interceptions Thursday after throwing only 12 all season. Starting running back Chris Brant was also injured, and the Wildcats were already without running back Nathan Reuter, which meant they were down to their third running back.
* Many of the Eleva-Strum players spoke of the bittersweet feeling that comes with any season coming to a close. While they are obviously happy for the state title, this is the last time that many of them will put on a football uniform. It's a very tight-knit group, and that was easy to see following the game.
* The Cardinals also hope to turn silver into gold in March. Eleva-Strum lost in last year's WIAA Division 4 state basketball title game to Randolph. Practice started Monday, but with virtually the entire team still playing football, coach Rich Roginski (who is also an assistant football coach) will hold off on hoops practice until Tuesday. Eleva-Strum is the top-ranked team in Division 4 in the Wisconsin Basketball Yearbook preseason poll.
- John Casper Jr.
It's over
You can put it on the board. Eleva-Strum is bringing home the first gold ball for football after a 41-6 victory over Southwestern. As expected, the game was fairly one-sided, although Southwestern put up a fight for the better part of three quarters.
I'm going to head down to the field for postgame interviews, but check back here all day for updates on the Cardinals victory as well as the other championship games.
And be sure to check tomorrow's Leader-Telegram for complete postgame coverage.
- John Casper Jr.
I'm going to head down to the field for postgame interviews, but check back here all day for updates on the Cardinals victory as well as the other championship games.
And be sure to check tomorrow's Leader-Telegram for complete postgame coverage.
- John Casper Jr.
We've got a running clock
Daniel Van Pelt is the new favorite kicker of the press box.
That's because his extra point gave Eleva-Strum a 41-6 lead following Nick Zander's 3-yard touchdown run and enforced the running clock, a mercy rule in Wisconsin football enforced when one team has a 35-point lead in the second half.
The Cardinals are no stranger to the running clock. All but three of their games have ended with a running clock, including three of the previous four playoff games. Eleva-Strum will make it four of five if it can keep Southwestern out of the end zone here.
Eleva-Strum's last touchdown was set up by a Nick Rogness interception. The Cardinals have intercepted both of Blake Martin's last two pass attempts.
- John Casper Jr.
That's because his extra point gave Eleva-Strum a 41-6 lead following Nick Zander's 3-yard touchdown run and enforced the running clock, a mercy rule in Wisconsin football enforced when one team has a 35-point lead in the second half.
The Cardinals are no stranger to the running clock. All but three of their games have ended with a running clock, including three of the previous four playoff games. Eleva-Strum will make it four of five if it can keep Southwestern out of the end zone here.
Eleva-Strum's last touchdown was set up by a Nick Rogness interception. The Cardinals have intercepted both of Blake Martin's last two pass attempts.
- John Casper Jr.
The nail in the coffin
It looks like Eleva-Strum is going to win its first football state championship in school history.
Daniel Van Pelt intercepted a Blake Martin pass on third-and-long deep in Wildcats territory, and Nick Rogness scored a touchdown on a 3-yard run to give the Cardinals a 34-6 lead with 11:25 left. Rogness is the fifth different player to score for Eleva-Strum today.
It seems only fitting that the scoring in this one is being spread around. I had a column in today's paper on how tight-knit this Eleva-Strum group is, and I wouldn't be surprised if the guys are asking coach Warren Behm to spread out the wealth the closer they get to the end zone.
- John Casper Jr.
Daniel Van Pelt intercepted a Blake Martin pass on third-and-long deep in Wildcats territory, and Nick Rogness scored a touchdown on a 3-yard run to give the Cardinals a 34-6 lead with 11:25 left. Rogness is the fifth different player to score for Eleva-Strum today.
It seems only fitting that the scoring in this one is being spread around. I had a column in today's paper on how tight-knit this Eleva-Strum group is, and I wouldn't be surprised if the guys are asking coach Warren Behm to spread out the wealth the closer they get to the end zone.
- John Casper Jr.
Eleva-Strum adds to the lead
Are the Cardinals pulling away? Sure looks like it after another touchdown drive.
This one was set up by a 66-yard run by Nick Rogness, who took a sweep and followed a line of blockers across the field and down the sideline for a big run.
Two plays later, Levy Cleasby scored from 16 yards out on a counter. Cleasby limped off the field and was briefly attended to by the Eleva-Strum training staff but appears to be OK.
Eleva-Strum faked the extra-point attempt and Rongstad threw to Jordan Petersen for the two-point conversion, and the Cardinals lead 27-6.
- John Casper Jr.
This one was set up by a 66-yard run by Nick Rogness, who took a sweep and followed a line of blockers across the field and down the sideline for a big run.
Two plays later, Levy Cleasby scored from 16 yards out on a counter. Cleasby limped off the field and was briefly attended to by the Eleva-Strum training staff but appears to be OK.
Eleva-Strum faked the extra-point attempt and Rongstad threw to Jordan Petersen for the two-point conversion, and the Cardinals lead 27-6.
- John Casper Jr.
Southwestern is hanging around
Eleva-Strum forced Southwestern to go three-and-out on its first possession of the second half, but a fumbled snap by Lance Rongstad and a sack stalled the Cardinals drive.
The Wildcats have the ball just inside Eleva-Strum territory as we move past the halfway mark of the third quarter. Eleva-Strum still leads 19-6 but this is very much anyone's game right now.
- John Casper Jr.
The Wildcats have the ball just inside Eleva-Strum territory as we move past the halfway mark of the third quarter. Eleva-Strum still leads 19-6 but this is very much anyone's game right now.
- John Casper Jr.
Eleva-Strum leads 19-6 at the half
Southwestern never seriously threatened on its last drive of the first half and we're going to the locker room with Eleva-Strum leading 19-6. Here's a prediction: The Cardinals will have an onsides kick to start the second half.
First half observations:
*Southwestern can move the ball. The Wildcats have as many first downs as Eleva-Strum and controlled the ball for 14:32 of the 24 first-half minutes. However, what Southwestern is lacking is the big play.
*Lance Rongstad is turning in a special performance. He's 3-for-5 passing with 49 yards, has seven carries for 55 yards, an interception and returned a kickoff 79 yards for a touchdown.
*The Eleva-Strum defensive line is starting to assert itself. Southwestern is averaging less than 3 yards a carry, and is getting nothing in the ground game unless it is from QB Blake Martin.
* The hot dogs still have their natural color. I enjoyed one along with WQOW's Bill "The Sports Report" Port and former man about town in Eau Claire and current Verona bachelor David Kmiecik, who is now working at WMTV in Madison.
- John Casper Jr.
First half observations:
*Southwestern can move the ball. The Wildcats have as many first downs as Eleva-Strum and controlled the ball for 14:32 of the 24 first-half minutes. However, what Southwestern is lacking is the big play.
*Lance Rongstad is turning in a special performance. He's 3-for-5 passing with 49 yards, has seven carries for 55 yards, an interception and returned a kickoff 79 yards for a touchdown.
*The Eleva-Strum defensive line is starting to assert itself. Southwestern is averaging less than 3 yards a carry, and is getting nothing in the ground game unless it is from QB Blake Martin.
* The hot dogs still have their natural color. I enjoyed one along with WQOW's Bill "The Sports Report" Port and former man about town in Eau Claire and current Verona bachelor David Kmiecik, who is now working at WMTV in Madison.
- John Casper Jr.
Klopp gets in on the fun
One of the most underrated players on the Eleva-Strum football team has to be Mitchell Klopp. A 5-foot-10 and only 140 pounds, he doesn't look like much but the kid sure can move. He just had a nifty 12-yard TD run to give Eleva-Strum a 19-6 lead.
The Cardinals faked the extra point and appeared to get the two-point conversion. Holder Lance Rongstad flipped to Daniel Van Pelt, who threw it to a wide-open receiver, but the officials ruled that Rongstad's knee was down, thereby ending the play.
I had no idea that was the rule. Apparently if you fake the field goal, the holder can't have his knee down in high school. The general consensus in the press box is that the official blew the call. I'll see if I can find out more after the game.
- John Casper Jr.
The Cardinals faked the extra point and appeared to get the two-point conversion. Holder Lance Rongstad flipped to Daniel Van Pelt, who threw it to a wide-open receiver, but the officials ruled that Rongstad's knee was down, thereby ending the play.
I had no idea that was the rule. Apparently if you fake the field goal, the holder can't have his knee down in high school. The general consensus in the press box is that the official blew the call. I'll see if I can find out more after the game.
- John Casper Jr.
Hold your horses
Wow. Using Reggie Bush-like cutback moves, Eleva-Strum's Lance Rongstad returned a kickoff 80 yards for a touchdown, and a Daniel Van Pelt extra point gave the Cardinals a 13-6 lead.
That has to be a blow to Southwestern, which moments before had tied the score.
According to the stats packet, that's the first kickoff return for a touchdown by Eleva-Strum this season. Granted, the Cardinals haven't had many opportunities, allowing only 11 TDs all season.
Rogness does have three punt returns for TDs, however.
- John Casper Jr.
That has to be a blow to Southwestern, which moments before had tied the score.
According to the stats packet, that's the first kickoff return for a touchdown by Eleva-Strum this season. Granted, the Cardinals haven't had many opportunities, allowing only 11 TDs all season.
Rogness does have three punt returns for TDs, however.
- John Casper Jr.
Southwestern ties it
This time, the Wildcats finished a drive.
Using a beautiful catch by Zach Droeszler, Southwestern got the ball down to the Eleva-Strum 2, where QB Blake Martin ran it in for the score. Southwestern must not have a reliable kicker, because it went for the two-point conversion and didn't make it, meaning we're tied at 6.
Since the 5:27 mark of the first quarter, Eleva-Strum has only run three plays. With each first down, Southwestern is starting to gain more and more confidence against the heavily-favored Cardinals.
We're at the 6:04 mark of the second quarter, and Eleva-Strum is about to receive the kickoff.
- John Casper Jr.
Using a beautiful catch by Zach Droeszler, Southwestern got the ball down to the Eleva-Strum 2, where QB Blake Martin ran it in for the score. Southwestern must not have a reliable kicker, because it went for the two-point conversion and didn't make it, meaning we're tied at 6.
Since the 5:27 mark of the first quarter, Eleva-Strum has only run three plays. With each first down, Southwestern is starting to gain more and more confidence against the heavily-favored Cardinals.
We're at the 6:04 mark of the second quarter, and Eleva-Strum is about to receive the kickoff.
- John Casper Jr.
E-S defense comes up big
Southwestern's drive went all the way inside the Eleva-Strum 20 but Jordan Petersen tipped a pass that was intercepted by Lance Rongstad, ending the Wildcats' threat.
However, the Cardinals went three-and-out, and now Southwestern has the ball at the Cardinals 47.
And by the way, we have no idea why Southwestern quarterback Blake Martin's pants are a different shade of blue (almost light purple). Dave Boehler thinks it was a laundry accident.
- John Casper Jr.
However, the Cardinals went three-and-out, and now Southwestern has the ball at the Cardinals 47.
And by the way, we have no idea why Southwestern quarterback Blake Martin's pants are a different shade of blue (almost light purple). Dave Boehler thinks it was a laundry accident.
- John Casper Jr.
We may have a game on our hands
It's amazing how a simple false start penalty can kill a drive. A promising Eleva-Strum drive was stalled by a false start penalty and may have given Southwestern a shot in the arm. The Wildcats are in the midst of an impressive drive, and have a first-and-10 at the Eleva-Strum 19 at the end of the first quarter. It's still 6-0.
I'm no longer alone in the press box. Intrepid AP reporter Dave DeGrace and enigmatic Journal Sentinel prep writer Dave Boehler have decided to join me.
Only DeGrace was brave enough to eat one of the free hot dogs. I'm holding out until noon.
- John Casper Jr.
I'm no longer alone in the press box. Intrepid AP reporter Dave DeGrace and enigmatic Journal Sentinel prep writer Dave Boehler have decided to join me.
Only DeGrace was brave enough to eat one of the free hot dogs. I'm holding out until noon.
- John Casper Jr.
Eleva-Strum on the board
After losing to Gilman 42-0 in last year's Division 7 title game, Eleva-Strum quarterback Lance Rongstad mentioned to coach Warren Behm the Cardinals needed to incorporate the spread into their offensive game plan.
It's a good thing Behm listened.
The Cardinals have employed the spread a bit more the season — including for all of a playoff victory over Independence/Gilmanton — and used it almost exclusively to score on their first drive of the game. Nick Zander scored on a 9-yard run less than 2 minutes into this one, and Eleva-Strum leads 6-0. The key play of the drive was a 43-yard pass from Rongstad to Nick Rogness.
The drive wasn't perfect, however. Kevin Deetz fumbled the opening kickoff (Rongstad fell on the ball) and Rongstad had a tipped pass that was almost intercepted.
Southwestern has the ball now, using their Tim Tebow-like quarterback Blake Martin and the spread offense.
- John Casper Jr.
It's a good thing Behm listened.
The Cardinals have employed the spread a bit more the season — including for all of a playoff victory over Independence/Gilmanton — and used it almost exclusively to score on their first drive of the game. Nick Zander scored on a 9-yard run less than 2 minutes into this one, and Eleva-Strum leads 6-0. The key play of the drive was a 43-yard pass from Rongstad to Nick Rogness.
The drive wasn't perfect, however. Kevin Deetz fumbled the opening kickoff (Rongstad fell on the ball) and Rongstad had a tipped pass that was almost intercepted.
Southwestern has the ball now, using their Tim Tebow-like quarterback Blake Martin and the spread offense.
- John Casper Jr.
We're live in Madison
You're looking live at a blog from Camp Randall Stadium on the campus of the University of Wisconsin where in a few minutes the Eleva-Strum Cardinals will battle the Southwestern Wildcats for the WIAA Division 7 state championship.
We're about 20 minutes before kickoff, and be sure to come back all morning and afternoon for updates from the Camp.
In case you were wondering, Eleva-Strum is sporting its home red uniforms and black pants. I have to say they look sharp. Southwestern is wearing white tops with blue numbers and blue pants.
Eleva-Strum has the sideline below the press box, so I can't speak for the size of the crowd. I guess I could venture out into the stands but it's cold out there.
As for the state-wide media, I'm holding down the front row of the press box. It is a bit odd to be the only one up here. I showered and everything, so there's no reason for people to stay away.
If you have any questions about the game or my hygenie habits, feel free to leave a comment or send me an e-mail at john.casper@ecpc.com.
Enjoy!
- John Casper Jr.
We're about 20 minutes before kickoff, and be sure to come back all morning and afternoon for updates from the Camp.
In case you were wondering, Eleva-Strum is sporting its home red uniforms and black pants. I have to say they look sharp. Southwestern is wearing white tops with blue numbers and blue pants.
Eleva-Strum has the sideline below the press box, so I can't speak for the size of the crowd. I guess I could venture out into the stands but it's cold out there.
As for the state-wide media, I'm holding down the front row of the press box. It is a bit odd to be the only one up here. I showered and everything, so there's no reason for people to stay away.
If you have any questions about the game or my hygenie habits, feel free to leave a comment or send me an e-mail at john.casper@ecpc.com.
Enjoy!
- John Casper Jr.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Watch all of the state semifinal games
In its never-ending quest to offer more ways to promote high school athletics, the WIAA and When We Were Young Productions have put up complete video from every state semifinal game. Go check it out for yourself.
I've been watching Southwestern and its big QB Blake Martin. The Wildcats run a similar offense to what the University of Florida does with Tim Tebow. Should make for an entertaining Division 7 state championship game against Eleva-Strum.
Also, check back here Thursday morning for live updates from Camp Randall Stadium. I'll be blogging from the press box. I'll also see if I can add some postgame reaction later in the day.
- John Casper Jr.
I've been watching Southwestern and its big QB Blake Martin. The Wildcats run a similar offense to what the University of Florida does with Tim Tebow. Should make for an entertaining Division 7 state championship game against Eleva-Strum.
Also, check back here Thursday morning for live updates from Camp Randall Stadium. I'll be blogging from the press box. I'll also see if I can add some postgame reaction later in the day.
- John Casper Jr.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Wrapping things up
We're at the 2-minute warning, and I'll tie up some loose ends from the fourth quarter before heading down to the locker room. The Packers are up 34-0.
*Aaron Rodgers is getting some playing time for the Packers. He looks good, and he's getting an opportunity to throw some passes.
*Brett Favre's final touchdown pass to Ruvell Martin was his third of the game. That's the 61st time he's had three or more TDs in his career. Only Dan Marino (62) has more.
*Koren Robinson saw some action in the fourth. He caught a couple balls and made a few solid open-field moves.
*Chester Taylor looks good filling in for injured rookie Adrian Peterson. He's been able to find some holes and break off a few lengthy runs.
As the fans head toward the exits, I'll do the same. Make sure to check out Monday's Leader-Telegram for more coverage. Thanks for sticking with me today.
*Aaron Rodgers is getting some playing time for the Packers. He looks good, and he's getting an opportunity to throw some passes.
*Brett Favre's final touchdown pass to Ruvell Martin was his third of the game. That's the 61st time he's had three or more TDs in his career. Only Dan Marino (62) has more.
*Koren Robinson saw some action in the fourth. He caught a couple balls and made a few solid open-field moves.
*Chester Taylor looks good filling in for injured rookie Adrian Peterson. He's been able to find some holes and break off a few lengthy runs.
As the fans head toward the exits, I'll do the same. Make sure to check out Monday's Leader-Telegram for more coverage. Thanks for sticking with me today.
-Justin Harings
We're through three
Three quarters are complete, and the Packers have this game in hand, leading 27-0. The score's not close, but there are some important things to note from the third quarter.
*First and foremost, Vikings RB Adrian Peterson looked like he suffered an ugly injury with 1:28 to go in the third. He was flipped head-over-heels on a run, and he was writhing in pain on the ground. He was putting some weight on his leg as he was helped off the field. We were told that he has a knee injury and his return is questionable. Pretty vague, but that's all they'll give us right now.
*Packers RT Mark Tauscher looked visibly injured during the third. He was hobbling around on his left ankle, and it was confirmed just minutes ago. He could return, but with the score the way it is, he likely will not.
*Brett Favre is appears to be fine after taking a scary blow to the head from Kenechi Udeze.
*The Packers' kickoff-coverage unit is amped up today. Before every kickoff, they gather in a tight circle and rip off a loose rendition of the dance that accompanies Soulja Boy's "Crank Dat."
*First and foremost, Vikings RB Adrian Peterson looked like he suffered an ugly injury with 1:28 to go in the third. He was flipped head-over-heels on a run, and he was writhing in pain on the ground. He was putting some weight on his leg as he was helped off the field. We were told that he has a knee injury and his return is questionable. Pretty vague, but that's all they'll give us right now.
*Packers RT Mark Tauscher looked visibly injured during the third. He was hobbling around on his left ankle, and it was confirmed just minutes ago. He could return, but with the score the way it is, he likely will not.
*Brett Favre is appears to be fine after taking a scary blow to the head from Kenechi Udeze.
*The Packers' kickoff-coverage unit is amped up today. Before every kickoff, they gather in a tight circle and rip off a loose rendition of the dance that accompanies Soulja Boy's "Crank Dat."
-Justin Harings
One half in the books
We're halfway done here in Green Bay, and the Packers extended their lead to 13-0. Here are some more things I've noticed from my perch high above Lambeau Field.
*The Packers made a curious decision to end the first half. At the Vikings 12-yard line with about 9 seconds to play and two timeouts, the Packers opted to let the clock run down to 3 seconds before having Mason Crosby boot a field goal as time expired. It seemed as if they could have burned their other timeout and let Brett Favre take one more shot at the end zone.
*Ryan Grant, who sparkled in the first half, wasn't in during the 2-minute drill. We in the press box have not been alerted of any injury to him, but Brandon Jackson got the work all the same.
*The Packers' newfound rushing game has let them dominate time of possession. They ate up 8 minutes, 15 seconds on their first field-goal drive in the second quarter. They have held the ball for 19:59 -- nearly double the Vikings.
*The announced attendance is 70,945. That's the largest regular-season attendance figure in the long, storied history of Lambeau Field.
*Brett Favre reached 60,000 career passing yards during the second quarter. He's only the second player in NFL history to do so. The other was Dan Marino, who finished with 61,361 yards.
As a sidenote, Miami and St. Louis, the last two winless teams in the NFL, are leading in their respective games. Why do I mention this? During our NFL picks this week, Joe Ziemer and I ridiculed the coin for sticking with the Dolphins and Rams. If this keeps up, we may have to retract our criticism.
*The Packers made a curious decision to end the first half. At the Vikings 12-yard line with about 9 seconds to play and two timeouts, the Packers opted to let the clock run down to 3 seconds before having Mason Crosby boot a field goal as time expired. It seemed as if they could have burned their other timeout and let Brett Favre take one more shot at the end zone.
*Ryan Grant, who sparkled in the first half, wasn't in during the 2-minute drill. We in the press box have not been alerted of any injury to him, but Brandon Jackson got the work all the same.
*The Packers' newfound rushing game has let them dominate time of possession. They ate up 8 minutes, 15 seconds on their first field-goal drive in the second quarter. They have held the ball for 19:59 -- nearly double the Vikings.
*The announced attendance is 70,945. That's the largest regular-season attendance figure in the long, storied history of Lambeau Field.
*Brett Favre reached 60,000 career passing yards during the second quarter. He's only the second player in NFL history to do so. The other was Dan Marino, who finished with 61,361 yards.
As a sidenote, Miami and St. Louis, the last two winless teams in the NFL, are leading in their respective games. Why do I mention this? During our NFL picks this week, Joe Ziemer and I ridiculed the coin for sticking with the Dolphins and Rams. If this keeps up, we may have to retract our criticism.
-Justin Harings
First-quarter observations
Here are some tidbits after one quarter of play. The Packers lead the Vikings 7-0.
*Ryan Grant looks fantastic. He's shifty, hitting the hole hard and running with a purpose against a stout Vikings rush defense. He has eight carries for 81 yards, including a tough 30-yard touchdown run. In the Packers' first drive alone, Grant had three carries for 49 yards and two catches for 11.
*His statistics aren't quite as gaudy, but Adrian Peterson continues to impress. He's got 36 yards on seven carries, and the rookie just flat runs over people. He's clearly the focus of the Vikings offense, touching the ball nearly every snap.
*After all of the controversy surrounding his grandmother's funeral, Troy Williamson is active for the Vikings. He returned the opening kickoff 24 yards.
*Those in attendance at Lambeau Field got to see a moving tribute to the late Max McGee midway through the quarter. It was set to Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World."
*Former Packers running back John Brockington, who played from 1971-77, is in attendance.
*Ryan Grant looks fantastic. He's shifty, hitting the hole hard and running with a purpose against a stout Vikings rush defense. He has eight carries for 81 yards, including a tough 30-yard touchdown run. In the Packers' first drive alone, Grant had three carries for 49 yards and two catches for 11.
*His statistics aren't quite as gaudy, but Adrian Peterson continues to impress. He's got 36 yards on seven carries, and the rookie just flat runs over people. He's clearly the focus of the Vikings offense, touching the ball nearly every snap.
*After all of the controversy surrounding his grandmother's funeral, Troy Williamson is active for the Vikings. He returned the opening kickoff 24 yards.
*Those in attendance at Lambeau Field got to see a moving tribute to the late Max McGee midway through the quarter. It was set to Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World."
*Former Packers running back John Brockington, who played from 1971-77, is in attendance.
-Justin Harings
Blugolds make postseason field
The NCAA Division III football tournament field was scheduled to be announced early today. And UW-Eau Claire, after a narrow victory over UW-Stout on Saturday, is ... in.
UW-Eau Claire (8-2) will visit St. Norbert (10-0) in the first round Saturday in De Pere. The winner of that game will face either Bethel (Minn.) or Concordia.
UW-Whitewater is the only other WIAC team in the field. The Warhawks (9-1) play Capital (Ohio) on Saturday in Whitewater.
The NCAA's entire DIII bracket is here.
UW-Eau Claire (8-2) will visit St. Norbert (10-0) in the first round Saturday in De Pere. The winner of that game will face either Bethel (Minn.) or Concordia.
UW-Whitewater is the only other WIAC team in the field. The Warhawks (9-1) play Capital (Ohio) on Saturday in Whitewater.
The NCAA's entire DIII bracket is here.
-Justin Harings
We're live from Lambeau
After a tedious early morning drive, I finally have arrived at Lambeau Field. I'll spit out a new post when I see something noteworthy, so be sure to check back regularly throughout today's Packers-Vikings contest.
Kickoff is more than an hour away, but many players already have found their way to the field. Here are some quick pregame notes:
*Wisconsin grad Brooks Bollinger is starting at QB for the Vikings today in place of Tarvaris Jackson. Kelly Holcomb is third-string, and Koy Detmer's tenure was the team turned out to be short-lived. He was cut.
*Noteable inactives for the Vikings include WR Sidney Rice, S Mike Doss and CB Antoine Winfield. Some inactives for the Packers are S Nick Collins, T Tony Moll, TE Bubba Franks and rookie DT Justin Harrell.
*Today's game will be the 94th edition of the NFC North rivalry. The Packers hold a slight advantage in the all-time series, leading 47-44-1.
*It's no surprise, but today's game is sold out. That's the the 250th consecutive regular-season sellout at Lambeau Field (264 including playoffs).
*Aaron Kampman, the NFC defensive player of the month for October, and the eighth-ranked Packers defense will have to stop Vikings rookie phenom Adrian Peterson, who rolled up 296 rushing yards a week ago. The Packers only have allowed three rushing TDs this season.
*Here's a fun one. According to Elias Sports Bureau, Greg Jennings is only the second Packers player in the last 50 seasons with a 60-plus yard touchdown catch in back-to-back games. The last time it was done was James Lofton in 1983.
For now, though, I'm off to take advantage of the free eats. I hope it's a fajita bar.
Kickoff is more than an hour away, but many players already have found their way to the field. Here are some quick pregame notes:
*Wisconsin grad Brooks Bollinger is starting at QB for the Vikings today in place of Tarvaris Jackson. Kelly Holcomb is third-string, and Koy Detmer's tenure was the team turned out to be short-lived. He was cut.
*Noteable inactives for the Vikings include WR Sidney Rice, S Mike Doss and CB Antoine Winfield. Some inactives for the Packers are S Nick Collins, T Tony Moll, TE Bubba Franks and rookie DT Justin Harrell.
*Today's game will be the 94th edition of the NFC North rivalry. The Packers hold a slight advantage in the all-time series, leading 47-44-1.
*It's no surprise, but today's game is sold out. That's the the 250th consecutive regular-season sellout at Lambeau Field (264 including playoffs).
*Aaron Kampman, the NFC defensive player of the month for October, and the eighth-ranked Packers defense will have to stop Vikings rookie phenom Adrian Peterson, who rolled up 296 rushing yards a week ago. The Packers only have allowed three rushing TDs this season.
*Here's a fun one. According to Elias Sports Bureau, Greg Jennings is only the second Packers player in the last 50 seasons with a 60-plus yard touchdown catch in back-to-back games. The last time it was done was James Lofton in 1983.
For now, though, I'm off to take advantage of the free eats. I hope it's a fajita bar.
-Justin Harings
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