Abraham Lincoln
The Great Emancipator
OhioState49;661753; said:A player from the OSU team told me that they are working very hard and are doing great at practice. He said that they will be ready. LETS GO BUCKS!
Upvote
0
-
Follow us on Twitter @buckeyeplanet and @bp_recruiting, like us on Facebook! Enjoy a post or article, recommend it to others! BP is only as strong as its community, and we only promote by word of mouth, so share away!
- Thread starter 3yardsandacloud
- Start date
I can't wait to see our defense stuff the shit out of Mike Hart...again.
2004: 18 carries, 61 yards (3.4 ypc)
2005: 9 carries, 15 yards (1.7 ypc)
Total: 27 carries, 76 yards (2.8 ypc)
If we hold Hart to anywhere near 3 ypc, this game is over...
2004: 18 carries, 61 yards (3.4 ypc)
2005: 9 carries, 15 yards (1.7 ypc)
Total: 27 carries, 76 yards (2.8 ypc)
If we hold Hart to anywhere near 3 ypc, this game is over...
Upvote
0
MililaniBuckeye;661890; said:
Bingo! We have winner. Stay on the line MililaniBuckeye so we can take down your details...
Everyone is talking about how TSUN will shut down Ohio State's run and penetrate the line. I think Tressel will nullify that with his playcalling.
On the other hand, just listening to the Cooper ESPN interview with Cowherd, there's all this noise about TSUN running the ball down Ohio State's throat and keeping the offense off the field.
Michigan does lead the NCAA on time of possession (34:04) and in rushing defense (29.9 yds/gm). But, Ohio State is #14 in time of possession (31:56) and its hard to say how meaningful that comparsion is given Ohio State playing lots of second half ball with the first team out this year. Ohio State (90.2 yds/gm) is #11 in rushing defense as well. Take away the 169 yds in the first game against Wolfe and we are allowing only 82 yrds rushing a game, much of which came against the bench.
so, I say watch out for the possibility that the reverse happens. Ohio State marches down the field eating up the clock, converting a better percentage of third downs than TSUN and TSUN struggles all day to run or pass the ball.
Last edited:
Upvote
0
Look at our scoring all year. We've scored 35+ points in 8 of 11 games, and in two of the three games where we scored 24 or less offensive points, one was due to really bad weather conditions (PSU) and the other a JT-confessed ultra-conservative second half at Illinois. The only defense that slowed us down on their own was Texas at their place and we still scored 24 points. And folks think that Michigan is going to shut us down at The Shoe when they gave up 26 at home to Ball State just two weeks ago?
Oh yeah, their offense sucks, scoring 17 at Penn State, 20 at home against Iowa, 17 at home against Northwestern, and 24 offensive points at home against Indiana over the last five weeks (they did run up 34 points at home against mighty Ball State
). That's right...Michigan has averaged under 20 points on offense over their last four conference games.
Oh yeah, their offense sucks, scoring 17 at Penn State, 20 at home against Iowa, 17 at home against Northwestern, and 24 offensive points at home against Indiana over the last five weeks (they did run up 34 points at home against mighty Ball State
). That's right...Michigan has averaged under 20 points on offense over their last four conference games.
Upvote
0
I think TSUN has been holding back on offense, working the entire year to win this game. I expect a few shocks early in The Game. I think TSUN is better than most folks have thought they are all year.
But, I don't think they are as good as Ohio State. Even if they are ahead at the half, which is much less likely than the reverse in my opinion, I think in the second half we will shut them down entirely.
And when this game is over, I think we will turn our attention to singing the praises of one unsung hero, Butch Reynolds. That's what's gonna turn this second half into a rout in my opinion, our conditioning, speed, and strength. Butch Reynolds.
But, I don't think they are as good as Ohio State. Even if they are ahead at the half, which is much less likely than the reverse in my opinion, I think in the second half we will shut them down entirely.
And when this game is over, I think we will turn our attention to singing the praises of one unsung hero, Butch Reynolds. That's what's gonna turn this second half into a rout in my opinion, our conditioning, speed, and strength. Butch Reynolds.
Upvote
0
DDN
New grass looks good; Smith's thumb doesn't worry Tressel
By Doug Harris
Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
COLUMBUS ? Don Patko isn't making any promises beyond this week, but Ohio State and Michigan should have a trusty playing surface for their mega-clash Saturday.
The Ohio Stadium turf was replaced twice in the past seven weeks ? at a total cost of $135,000 ? but the second layer of sod that was installed earlier this month seems to be taking root.
"The grass is really looking good," said Patko, OSU associate athletic director for facilities. "It shouldn't be a problem."
The turf deteriorated early in the season and was resodded in late September. But defensive tackle David Patterson suffered a knee injury and missed two games when his foot became caught in a seam, and the players were still slipping during back-to-back home games in late October.
Athletic Director Gene Smith decided afterward to have the field resurfaced for the final outing against Michigan, and it could be the Buckeyes' last home game on grass.
Senior defensive end Jay Richardson said he's heard the stadium will be getting artificial turf in the offseason, although Patko said a decision hasn't been made yet.
"We'll get our group together with Gene Smith and decide what the team needs," he said. "We'll put down anything they want.
"Coach (Jim Tressel) likes grass in ideal conditions. But in later months for football, grass doesn't grow and doesn't recover."
Patko's crew has installed FieldTurf at the Buckeyes' indoor facility and on one of their outdoor practice fields. He said the cost of putting it in the Horseshoe would be between $500,000 and $600,000.
Smith says he's OK
Quarterback Troy Smith said his sore right thumb is fine, and Tressel doesn't think his star player will notice it during the Michigan game.
Smith has been playing with his thumb wrapped, but he hasn't missed any practice time and threw four touchdown passes against Northwestern on Saturday while earning his fourth Big Ten offensive-player-of-the-week award this season.
"To him, it never bothers him," Tressel said. "He gets it wrapped ? it's obvious. But I think there will be so much adrenaline and so much flowing through his thumb down to his big toe (against the Wolverines) that he's not going to feel anything."
Tressel also said left tackle Alex Boone, who was sidelined the past two games with a knee injury, will be back in the lineup. And the Buckeyes will be missing only one starter (safety Anderson Russell) against the Wolverines.
"With this being Game 12 of 12 games in a row, I have no complaints," Tressel said.
Tressel wants noise
Although he would discourage the obnoxious behavior that caused the school national embarrassment after the 2002 win over Michigan, Tressel wouldn't mind if fans created the same ruckus in the stands.
"I hope the home-field advantage helps a great deal," he said. "I hope our crowd is tremendously loud. In a game like this, you better play better than you are. And if our crowd can help raise us up to play better than we are, I think that's a great advantage."
Asked about the hatred generated toward Michigan among many OSU fans, Tressel said: "I think it's kind of a nice release to be so passionate about something."
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2125 or at [email protected].
New grass looks good; Smith's thumb doesn't worry Tressel
By Doug Harris
Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
COLUMBUS ? Don Patko isn't making any promises beyond this week, but Ohio State and Michigan should have a trusty playing surface for their mega-clash Saturday.
The Ohio Stadium turf was replaced twice in the past seven weeks ? at a total cost of $135,000 ? but the second layer of sod that was installed earlier this month seems to be taking root.
"The grass is really looking good," said Patko, OSU associate athletic director for facilities. "It shouldn't be a problem."
The turf deteriorated early in the season and was resodded in late September. But defensive tackle David Patterson suffered a knee injury and missed two games when his foot became caught in a seam, and the players were still slipping during back-to-back home games in late October.
Athletic Director Gene Smith decided afterward to have the field resurfaced for the final outing against Michigan, and it could be the Buckeyes' last home game on grass.
Senior defensive end Jay Richardson said he's heard the stadium will be getting artificial turf in the offseason, although Patko said a decision hasn't been made yet.
"We'll get our group together with Gene Smith and decide what the team needs," he said. "We'll put down anything they want.
"Coach (Jim Tressel) likes grass in ideal conditions. But in later months for football, grass doesn't grow and doesn't recover."
Patko's crew has installed FieldTurf at the Buckeyes' indoor facility and on one of their outdoor practice fields. He said the cost of putting it in the Horseshoe would be between $500,000 and $600,000.
Smith says he's OK
Quarterback Troy Smith said his sore right thumb is fine, and Tressel doesn't think his star player will notice it during the Michigan game.
Smith has been playing with his thumb wrapped, but he hasn't missed any practice time and threw four touchdown passes against Northwestern on Saturday while earning his fourth Big Ten offensive-player-of-the-week award this season.
"To him, it never bothers him," Tressel said. "He gets it wrapped ? it's obvious. But I think there will be so much adrenaline and so much flowing through his thumb down to his big toe (against the Wolverines) that he's not going to feel anything."
Tressel also said left tackle Alex Boone, who was sidelined the past two games with a knee injury, will be back in the lineup. And the Buckeyes will be missing only one starter (safety Anderson Russell) against the Wolverines.
"With this being Game 12 of 12 games in a row, I have no complaints," Tressel said.
Tressel wants noise
Although he would discourage the obnoxious behavior that caused the school national embarrassment after the 2002 win over Michigan, Tressel wouldn't mind if fans created the same ruckus in the stands.
"I hope the home-field advantage helps a great deal," he said. "I hope our crowd is tremendously loud. In a game like this, you better play better than you are. And if our crowd can help raise us up to play better than we are, I think that's a great advantage."
Asked about the hatred generated toward Michigan among many OSU fans, Tressel said: "I think it's kind of a nice release to be so passionate about something."
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2125 or at [email protected].
Upvote
0
DDN
Henne, Hart have been great, but haven't beaten Buckeyes
The two juniors, starters since they were freshman, know they must finally beat OSU and win a bowl game to fill out resumes.
By Kyle Nagel
Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
ANN ARBOR, Mich. ? Although Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr had kept secret his starting quarterback all week, Chad Henne ran onto the field on Sept. 3, 2004, against Miami University. As just the second true freshman to start a season opener at quarterback for Michigan, the 6-foot-2, 223-pounder from Wyomissing, Pa., led the Wolverines to a 43-10 victory.
During that game, another freshman, tailback Mike Hart, rushed three times for 20 yards, which hardly foreshadowed the Big Ten freshman record 1,455 yards he would gain that season.
In the three seasons since, Henne and Hart ? who are listed next to each other on the roster ? have become the focal point for Michigan football in guiding the Wolverines to a combined 27-8 record.
"For the fan base," Henne said, "they would say, 'Yeah, how many times did you beat Ohio State?' "
The answer? Zero.
Henne and Hart, who have become two of the most decorated and statistically capable players at their positions in school history, enter Saturday's game between No. 1 Ohio State and No. 2 Michigan with two losses to the Buckeyes (and two bowl losses) on their resumes.
That's a tough distinction to shake, even when they have thrown and run for a combined 10,691 yards and 90 touchdowns. But teammates say both have improved throughout their careers and have matured for their third seasons.
"I believe it's confidence through experience," center Mark Bihl said. "Chad's a leader. He and Mike are both incredible leaders, and the team has evolved around them also."
That includes a shared Big Ten title with a 9-3 record in 2004, when they were freshmen. They did suffer a 37-21 upset loss to Ohio State that season, and a 38-37 loss to Texas in the Rose Bowl. Last season, the Wolverines went 7-5, lost 25-21 to the Buckeyes in Ann Arbor and dropped a wild Alamo Bowl to Nebraska, 32-28.
Carr remains staunchly supportive of both players.
"I think Chad Henne is a great quarterback," Carr said. "For me it's not about stats, but how he manages the game, how he executes at his position. What Chad Henne did here as a freshman, in my judgment, is as impressive as anything anybody's done here since I've been here."
As for Hart, the 5-9, 198-pounder from Syracuse, N.Y., Carr said, "He always seems to bleed the defense for an extra few yards."
Hart and Henne on Michigan's career lists
Passing Yards
1. John Navarre 9,254 2000-03
2. Chad Henne 7,201 2004-
Touchdown Passes
1. John Navarre 72 2000-03
2. Elvis Grbac 71 1989-92
3. Chad Henne 66 2004-
Rushing Yards
1. Anthony Thomas 4,472 1997-2000
2. Jamie Morris 4,393 1984-87
3. Tyrone Wheatley 4,178 1991-94
4. Butch Woolfolk 3,861 1978-81
5. Chris Perry 3,696 2000-03
6. Mike Hart 3,490 2004-
Henne, Hart have been great, but haven't beaten Buckeyes
The two juniors, starters since they were freshman, know they must finally beat OSU and win a bowl game to fill out resumes.
By Kyle Nagel
Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
ANN ARBOR, Mich. ? Although Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr had kept secret his starting quarterback all week, Chad Henne ran onto the field on Sept. 3, 2004, against Miami University. As just the second true freshman to start a season opener at quarterback for Michigan, the 6-foot-2, 223-pounder from Wyomissing, Pa., led the Wolverines to a 43-10 victory.
During that game, another freshman, tailback Mike Hart, rushed three times for 20 yards, which hardly foreshadowed the Big Ten freshman record 1,455 yards he would gain that season.
In the three seasons since, Henne and Hart ? who are listed next to each other on the roster ? have become the focal point for Michigan football in guiding the Wolverines to a combined 27-8 record.
"For the fan base," Henne said, "they would say, 'Yeah, how many times did you beat Ohio State?' "
The answer? Zero.
Henne and Hart, who have become two of the most decorated and statistically capable players at their positions in school history, enter Saturday's game between No. 1 Ohio State and No. 2 Michigan with two losses to the Buckeyes (and two bowl losses) on their resumes.
That's a tough distinction to shake, even when they have thrown and run for a combined 10,691 yards and 90 touchdowns. But teammates say both have improved throughout their careers and have matured for their third seasons.
"I believe it's confidence through experience," center Mark Bihl said. "Chad's a leader. He and Mike are both incredible leaders, and the team has evolved around them also."
That includes a shared Big Ten title with a 9-3 record in 2004, when they were freshmen. They did suffer a 37-21 upset loss to Ohio State that season, and a 38-37 loss to Texas in the Rose Bowl. Last season, the Wolverines went 7-5, lost 25-21 to the Buckeyes in Ann Arbor and dropped a wild Alamo Bowl to Nebraska, 32-28.
Carr remains staunchly supportive of both players.
"I think Chad Henne is a great quarterback," Carr said. "For me it's not about stats, but how he manages the game, how he executes at his position. What Chad Henne did here as a freshman, in my judgment, is as impressive as anything anybody's done here since I've been here."
As for Hart, the 5-9, 198-pounder from Syracuse, N.Y., Carr said, "He always seems to bleed the defense for an extra few yards."
Hart and Henne on Michigan's career lists
Passing Yards
1. John Navarre 9,254 2000-03
2. Chad Henne 7,201 2004-
Touchdown Passes
1. John Navarre 72 2000-03
2. Elvis Grbac 71 1989-92
3. Chad Henne 66 2004-
Rushing Yards
1. Anthony Thomas 4,472 1997-2000
2. Jamie Morris 4,393 1984-87
3. Tyrone Wheatley 4,178 1991-94
4. Butch Woolfolk 3,861 1978-81
5. Chris Perry 3,696 2000-03
6. Mike Hart 3,490 2004-
Upvote
0
DDN
Players have grown up with Tressel's traditions
Those who griped about song, band, now say it's what they'll miss most.
By Doug Harris
Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
COLUMBUS ? Ohio State defensive end Jay Richardson admits he wasn't motivated to memorize the words to Carmen Ohio because of his love for the school.
He just knew what awaited him if he didn't get them down.
"Each class in (preseason) camp has to sing it," he said. "Depending on how well you sing it, you don't have to run as much. You'd better learn the words ? or you're going to be sweating."
OSU coach Jim Tressel initiated several traditions when he arrived in 2001, the most radical of which was having the team face the student section after games and belt out the alma mater with the marching band.
It's had such a unifying effect ? "How firm thy friendship, O-HI-O" ? that most fans stick around even in blowouts to participate. And after five years in the program, including a redshirt season, Richardson has found that the lyrics not only are imbedded in his mind, but emblazoned on his heart.
"I remember when I was a freshman in camp, and we had seniors giving their last speeches," he said. "They were telling us the things they would miss the most, saying the skull session, the team walk and singing Carmen Ohio. I didn't know the words, and I didn't even care. Five years later, I'm saying, man, I'm going to miss that. ... All those things mean so much to you."
Visiting the skull session, pregame pep rally with the band in St. John Arena, and walking from the team hotel on campus through tailgating fans are two more Tressel innovations designed to enrich the program and give his players more than just football memories.
"The skull session is my favorite tradition," junior receiver Anthony Gonzalez said. "I love walking into St. John and hearing the band and seeing the people and feeling the excitement. No matter who you're playing, when you walk into that skull session, you can usually turn it on from there."
While those pregame rituals may seem hokey at first, the players clearly have embraced them. Even the free-spirited T.J. Downing, a Mohawk-wearing senior guard, will miss the trappings that accompany home games.
"Every time I walk into that skull session and the band starts playing and the fans start cheering, it almost brings a tear to your eye," he said.
Tressel knew he was taking a risk with his out-of-the-box approach ? and by his count, about 80 players rebelled during that initial season ? but he wasn't willing to alter his course.
"The only things you implement in your program are things you think kids will appreciate," he said. "Fortunately, they have appreciated stopping by the skull session, seeing what that's all about, and singing the alma mater. But it does take time."
Like the others, senior cornerback Antonio Smith is glad Tressel persevered.
"When you're here at Ohio State, you grow as a young man into adulthood," he said. "Coach Tressel prepares us for that. Playing for Ohio State, he wants you to understand what you've been a part of. And you'll appreciate it that much more in the years to come."
Players have grown up with Tressel's traditions
Those who griped about song, band, now say it's what they'll miss most.
By Doug Harris
Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
COLUMBUS ? Ohio State defensive end Jay Richardson admits he wasn't motivated to memorize the words to Carmen Ohio because of his love for the school.
He just knew what awaited him if he didn't get them down.
"Each class in (preseason) camp has to sing it," he said. "Depending on how well you sing it, you don't have to run as much. You'd better learn the words ? or you're going to be sweating."
OSU coach Jim Tressel initiated several traditions when he arrived in 2001, the most radical of which was having the team face the student section after games and belt out the alma mater with the marching band.
It's had such a unifying effect ? "How firm thy friendship, O-HI-O" ? that most fans stick around even in blowouts to participate. And after five years in the program, including a redshirt season, Richardson has found that the lyrics not only are imbedded in his mind, but emblazoned on his heart.
"I remember when I was a freshman in camp, and we had seniors giving their last speeches," he said. "They were telling us the things they would miss the most, saying the skull session, the team walk and singing Carmen Ohio. I didn't know the words, and I didn't even care. Five years later, I'm saying, man, I'm going to miss that. ... All those things mean so much to you."
Visiting the skull session, pregame pep rally with the band in St. John Arena, and walking from the team hotel on campus through tailgating fans are two more Tressel innovations designed to enrich the program and give his players more than just football memories.
"The skull session is my favorite tradition," junior receiver Anthony Gonzalez said. "I love walking into St. John and hearing the band and seeing the people and feeling the excitement. No matter who you're playing, when you walk into that skull session, you can usually turn it on from there."
While those pregame rituals may seem hokey at first, the players clearly have embraced them. Even the free-spirited T.J. Downing, a Mohawk-wearing senior guard, will miss the trappings that accompany home games.
"Every time I walk into that skull session and the band starts playing and the fans start cheering, it almost brings a tear to your eye," he said.
Tressel knew he was taking a risk with his out-of-the-box approach ? and by his count, about 80 players rebelled during that initial season ? but he wasn't willing to alter his course.
"The only things you implement in your program are things you think kids will appreciate," he said. "Fortunately, they have appreciated stopping by the skull session, seeing what that's all about, and singing the alma mater. But it does take time."
Like the others, senior cornerback Antonio Smith is glad Tressel persevered.
"When you're here at Ohio State, you grow as a young man into adulthood," he said. "Coach Tressel prepares us for that. Playing for Ohio State, he wants you to understand what you've been a part of. And you'll appreciate it that much more in the years to come."
Upvote
0
DDN
Tipp City man brings Woody back to life
By Tom Archdeacon
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
He was a little too much Woody for ESPN.
A couple of mornings ago, the TV sports guys were at Ohio Stadium filming spots for Saturday's big game and asked him to look into the camera and simply say: "Ohio State versus Michigan."
But on cue, Roger Thomas ? in his black ball cap with scarlet Block O, short-sleeve white shirt, loose-at-the-neck red tie and silver-framed glasses straight from the '50s ? blurted out:
"Ohio State versus That Damned School Up North!"
The producer waved off the effort, but on the redo, Thomas didn't relent, saying: "Woody never mentioned Michigan by name."
As reincarnations go, Thomas ? a 67-year-old commodities trader from Tipp City ? is a ringer for the late Buckeye icon.
He's Woody Hayes right down to the scowl and jowls.
So much so that this week, as the Bucks and Michigan meet in the heavyweight battle of unbeatens, his impersonation of the late OSU coach has made him an A-list sports celeb in the state.
Tuesday at Sinclair Community College, he was the luncheon speaker for the Ta-wa-si Club. Then it was off to an evening affair in Mansfield with 1,200 Buckeyes backers. Today, he's in Akron and Cleveland. Thursday, Miami East High and Findlay, and Friday it's breakfast with 3,000 in Columbus.
While he's never had such a whirlwind week, he said there have been "real memorable moments."
At Iowa, there was the girl dancing on an ice chest who waved him over, told him to hold her beer, then flashed her bare chest. In Austin before the Texas game, he was coaxed into a crowded bar and instantly greeted by hundreds chanting "Woody! Woody!"
And then there are those who share personal stories.
"I met George Jacoby and his wife, Nina, at an OSU alumni banquet in Cincinnati," he said. "George played at Ohio State, but when his grades started to drop, Woody called him into the office.
"George explained he was going to Toledo every week to see his girlfriend, so Woody finally told him, 'Marry the girl and bring her to Columbus.' That summer he did, and they got a little apartment and all was fine until the Tuesday before the first game."
"There was a knock at the door. Woody had sent over an assistant, who told Nina 'Now remember, no sex after Tuesday.'
"She was thunderstruck, and it was the same the next Tuesday. But the third week, she answered the door and said, 'Hold it. Who's watching the single guys?' After that there were no more knocks."
Ever since a business client told Thomas five years ago he looked just like Woody, he's absorbed everything he can about him:
"There's a great reservoir of respect and affection for Woody out there, so when people see me and smile or yell, 'Coach, we love you,' I just look at myself as a messenger. I know I'm not Woody. I never get that confused."
But others do.
"I was doing a charity event and a woman came up with her two little sons," he said. "She told me how she was a freshman at Ohio State when her father took her to that (Gator Bowl) game where Woody made his fatal mistake (punching a Clemson player) and was fired.
"As she looked at me, the tears were just running down her face."
Once again, he was a little too much Woody.
Tipp City man brings Woody back to life
By Tom Archdeacon
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
He was a little too much Woody for ESPN.
A couple of mornings ago, the TV sports guys were at Ohio Stadium filming spots for Saturday's big game and asked him to look into the camera and simply say: "Ohio State versus Michigan."
But on cue, Roger Thomas ? in his black ball cap with scarlet Block O, short-sleeve white shirt, loose-at-the-neck red tie and silver-framed glasses straight from the '50s ? blurted out:
"Ohio State versus That Damned School Up North!"
The producer waved off the effort, but on the redo, Thomas didn't relent, saying: "Woody never mentioned Michigan by name."
As reincarnations go, Thomas ? a 67-year-old commodities trader from Tipp City ? is a ringer for the late Buckeye icon.
He's Woody Hayes right down to the scowl and jowls.
So much so that this week, as the Bucks and Michigan meet in the heavyweight battle of unbeatens, his impersonation of the late OSU coach has made him an A-list sports celeb in the state.
Tuesday at Sinclair Community College, he was the luncheon speaker for the Ta-wa-si Club. Then it was off to an evening affair in Mansfield with 1,200 Buckeyes backers. Today, he's in Akron and Cleveland. Thursday, Miami East High and Findlay, and Friday it's breakfast with 3,000 in Columbus.
While he's never had such a whirlwind week, he said there have been "real memorable moments."
At Iowa, there was the girl dancing on an ice chest who waved him over, told him to hold her beer, then flashed her bare chest. In Austin before the Texas game, he was coaxed into a crowded bar and instantly greeted by hundreds chanting "Woody! Woody!"
And then there are those who share personal stories.
"I met George Jacoby and his wife, Nina, at an OSU alumni banquet in Cincinnati," he said. "George played at Ohio State, but when his grades started to drop, Woody called him into the office.
"George explained he was going to Toledo every week to see his girlfriend, so Woody finally told him, 'Marry the girl and bring her to Columbus.' That summer he did, and they got a little apartment and all was fine until the Tuesday before the first game."
"There was a knock at the door. Woody had sent over an assistant, who told Nina 'Now remember, no sex after Tuesday.'
"She was thunderstruck, and it was the same the next Tuesday. But the third week, she answered the door and said, 'Hold it. Who's watching the single guys?' After that there were no more knocks."
Ever since a business client told Thomas five years ago he looked just like Woody, he's absorbed everything he can about him:
"There's a great reservoir of respect and affection for Woody out there, so when people see me and smile or yell, 'Coach, we love you,' I just look at myself as a messenger. I know I'm not Woody. I never get that confused."
But others do.
"I was doing a charity event and a woman came up with her two little sons," he said. "She told me how she was a freshman at Ohio State when her father took her to that (Gator Bowl) game where Woody made his fatal mistake (punching a Clemson player) and was fired.
"As she looked at me, the tears were just running down her face."
Once again, he was a little too much Woody.
Upvote
0
TimSpencer's QB
inebrioxicated
osugrad21;660748; said:
I guess all those years wearing fugly helmuts have made this fool "dumb in the head" as my dear old Grandma used to say.
Upvote
0
Canton
OSU vs. Michigan: Stopping Smith
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
By Todd Porter REPOSITORY SPORTS WRITER
Michigan at Ohio State 3:30 p.m. Saturday
Ohio Stadium
TV ABC
COLUMBUS Early Monday morning, before the sun arose, Jim Tressel and quarterbacks coach Joe Daniels were watching Michigan film. The Ohio State coaches were looking for weaknesses, tendencies ... things coaches do.
Then Michigan slayer Troy Smith walked in. He was the first player to arrive for meetings that day, dressed in whatever he wore to bed Sunday.
"He came in and says, 'What are we looking at?' He almost grabbed the clicker to take over," Tressel said. "He just loves competition. He's got great respect for the guys he's playing against ... and for what they've accomplished. He gets excited about competitive situations."
Smith will be the only player on the field Saturday afternoon at Ohio Stadium who can take credit for both Ohio State and Michigan's success.
The fifth-year Buckeye quarterback beat the Wolverines the last two years.
Another win would make him the first OSU quarterback to finish with three wins against Michigan since Tippy Dye from 1934-36.
Last year's win at Michigan Stadium put the Buckeyes in another BCS bowl game. But it also put a dagger in Michigan Head Coach Lloyd Carr. He was criticized, and some believed he had to produce this season to remain at Michigan.
Smith led the Buckeyes to a come-from-behind win. OSU turned the ball over more, and, generally, didn't play four consistent quarters that day. Yet Smith found a way to win.
Carr had his worst season as Michigan's head coach. He also found motivation.
"There's no question when you had the type of season we had, that you're either going to back down and you're going to continue that trend, or you're going to get up and fight," Carr said. "... It motivated all of us."
The Buckeyes, No. 1 in the country all season, have Michigan where they want them: At Ohio Stadium with a senior quarterback leading the team. The Buckeyes have lost to Michigan one time in Columbus since 1998.
One other historical nugget: Only two quarterbacks have lost to Michigan when returning as a starter. Greg Frye was the last. For what it's worth, Smith has never lost a home game as a starter. He is 24-2, losing both on the road.
Carr seemed slightly annoyed with a pointed question about not being able to solve Smith the last two years. Tressel is glad the Glenville High graduate is on his team.
During last year's fourth quarter, in which the Buckeyes trailed, Tressel said Smith was calm.
"Kind of like, 'Hey, get a play called so I can go out there,' " Tressel said. "He wants to have the ball in his hands. He wants to make a difference. He cares so deeply for his teammates, and he wants something good to happen for them. That's part of the leadership part."
Smith's career numbers against the Wolverines are PlayStation-like. He has 723 total yards and five touchdowns in two games. And he's never thrown an interception against Michigan.
Is it Smith's dominance - or Tressel's - that's led to the Buckeyes winning the last two and four out of five vs. the Wolverines?
"Troy Smith spins and runs 46 yards? Now come on, I don't have any answers. I think our guys play hard," Tressel said. "... Sometimes you come up on the good end, sometimes you don't. If anyone pretends to think they have the answers, they've got a problem."
Carr admitted Michigan has been working on Ohio State material during the season. Tressel said two weeks ago that doesn't happen at Ohio State. OSU has been trying to maintain its tunnel vision.
"The truth is, you're working against all your opponents in January," Carr said. "You're competing against them. When you get into spring practice, you're working against them."
Tressel had his players read the book "Good to Great." Carr has used clips from the movie "Cinderella Man" to motivate his team.
Both teams are playing their best. Smith is playing his best.
That's where Michigan wants the Buckeyes.
"That's what Ben Hogan said: You want to win because you were better," Carr said.
OSU vs. Michigan: Stopping Smith
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
By Todd Porter REPOSITORY SPORTS WRITER
Michigan at Ohio State 3:30 p.m. Saturday
Ohio Stadium
TV ABC
COLUMBUS Early Monday morning, before the sun arose, Jim Tressel and quarterbacks coach Joe Daniels were watching Michigan film. The Ohio State coaches were looking for weaknesses, tendencies ... things coaches do.
Then Michigan slayer Troy Smith walked in. He was the first player to arrive for meetings that day, dressed in whatever he wore to bed Sunday.
"He came in and says, 'What are we looking at?' He almost grabbed the clicker to take over," Tressel said. "He just loves competition. He's got great respect for the guys he's playing against ... and for what they've accomplished. He gets excited about competitive situations."
Smith will be the only player on the field Saturday afternoon at Ohio Stadium who can take credit for both Ohio State and Michigan's success.
The fifth-year Buckeye quarterback beat the Wolverines the last two years.
Another win would make him the first OSU quarterback to finish with three wins against Michigan since Tippy Dye from 1934-36.
Last year's win at Michigan Stadium put the Buckeyes in another BCS bowl game. But it also put a dagger in Michigan Head Coach Lloyd Carr. He was criticized, and some believed he had to produce this season to remain at Michigan.
Smith led the Buckeyes to a come-from-behind win. OSU turned the ball over more, and, generally, didn't play four consistent quarters that day. Yet Smith found a way to win.
Carr had his worst season as Michigan's head coach. He also found motivation.
"There's no question when you had the type of season we had, that you're either going to back down and you're going to continue that trend, or you're going to get up and fight," Carr said. "... It motivated all of us."
The Buckeyes, No. 1 in the country all season, have Michigan where they want them: At Ohio Stadium with a senior quarterback leading the team. The Buckeyes have lost to Michigan one time in Columbus since 1998.
One other historical nugget: Only two quarterbacks have lost to Michigan when returning as a starter. Greg Frye was the last. For what it's worth, Smith has never lost a home game as a starter. He is 24-2, losing both on the road.
Carr seemed slightly annoyed with a pointed question about not being able to solve Smith the last two years. Tressel is glad the Glenville High graduate is on his team.
During last year's fourth quarter, in which the Buckeyes trailed, Tressel said Smith was calm.
"Kind of like, 'Hey, get a play called so I can go out there,' " Tressel said. "He wants to have the ball in his hands. He wants to make a difference. He cares so deeply for his teammates, and he wants something good to happen for them. That's part of the leadership part."
Smith's career numbers against the Wolverines are PlayStation-like. He has 723 total yards and five touchdowns in two games. And he's never thrown an interception against Michigan.
Is it Smith's dominance - or Tressel's - that's led to the Buckeyes winning the last two and four out of five vs. the Wolverines?
"Troy Smith spins and runs 46 yards? Now come on, I don't have any answers. I think our guys play hard," Tressel said. "... Sometimes you come up on the good end, sometimes you don't. If anyone pretends to think they have the answers, they've got a problem."
Carr admitted Michigan has been working on Ohio State material during the season. Tressel said two weeks ago that doesn't happen at Ohio State. OSU has been trying to maintain its tunnel vision.
"The truth is, you're working against all your opponents in January," Carr said. "You're competing against them. When you get into spring practice, you're working against them."
Tressel had his players read the book "Good to Great." Carr has used clips from the movie "Cinderella Man" to motivate his team.
Both teams are playing their best. Smith is playing his best.
That's where Michigan wants the Buckeyes.
"That's what Ben Hogan said: You want to win because you were better," Carr said.
Upvote
0
Canton
OHIO STATE REPORT
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
TODD PORTER
BO'S GOT CARR'S BACK Former Michigan Coach Bo Schembechler went before the Ann Arbor-area media Monday and defended Lloyd Carr's 1-4 record against Ohio State Head Coach Jim Tressel. "I don't give a damn about Tressel, and Lloyd having to beat this guy or that guy - that's hogwash," Schembechler said. "Go back through the history of the Michigan-Ohio State series. There's always been a series where one would win two, three. ... We should go back and look at Lloyd's record. I don't care whether he beats Tressel or not. He's done a marvelous job here, and here we are at 11-0." TRESSEL, CARR NOT PALS Carr was asked about his relationship with Tressel. The coaches have a mutual respect, but there is no Woody-Bo love fest between them. "This is an intensely competitive environment just like the one you're in," Carr said. "So sometimes you have closer friendships than others. I don't think you're going to see the Ohio State-Michigan coaches going to parties together."
HYPE SCHMYPE Tressel downplayed the significance of the two teams being Nos. 1 and 2, and this being, essentially, a national championship game semifinal. "If it weren't the Ohio State-Michigan game, all those things come into play more," Tressel said. "The fact that it's Ohio State and Michigan, that's the real reason guys come to Ohio State and go to Michigan: To be a part of two great, historic programs who get together at the end of the season. That's larger than all those other things. Those other things are real, though."
REMATCH Tressel and Carr dodged questions about a rematch in the BCS National Championship game. It could happen depending on what takes place in the two weeks after this game. "That hasn't taken on any of our thinking," Tressel said. "If you have a chance to switch on the Michigan film, you'd see that's all we're thinking about. Other people have time to think about those things. We haven't given that any thought."
OHIO STATE REPORT
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
TODD PORTER
BO'S GOT CARR'S BACK Former Michigan Coach Bo Schembechler went before the Ann Arbor-area media Monday and defended Lloyd Carr's 1-4 record against Ohio State Head Coach Jim Tressel. "I don't give a damn about Tressel, and Lloyd having to beat this guy or that guy - that's hogwash," Schembechler said. "Go back through the history of the Michigan-Ohio State series. There's always been a series where one would win two, three. ... We should go back and look at Lloyd's record. I don't care whether he beats Tressel or not. He's done a marvelous job here, and here we are at 11-0." TRESSEL, CARR NOT PALS Carr was asked about his relationship with Tressel. The coaches have a mutual respect, but there is no Woody-Bo love fest between them. "This is an intensely competitive environment just like the one you're in," Carr said. "So sometimes you have closer friendships than others. I don't think you're going to see the Ohio State-Michigan coaches going to parties together."
HYPE SCHMYPE Tressel downplayed the significance of the two teams being Nos. 1 and 2, and this being, essentially, a national championship game semifinal. "If it weren't the Ohio State-Michigan game, all those things come into play more," Tressel said. "The fact that it's Ohio State and Michigan, that's the real reason guys come to Ohio State and go to Michigan: To be a part of two great, historic programs who get together at the end of the season. That's larger than all those other things. Those other things are real, though."
REMATCH Tressel and Carr dodged questions about a rematch in the BCS National Championship game. It could happen depending on what takes place in the two weeks after this game. "That hasn't taken on any of our thinking," Tressel said. "If you have a chance to switch on the Michigan film, you'd see that's all we're thinking about. Other people have time to think about those things. We haven't given that any thought."
Upvote
0
Link
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The game: Memories never fade[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]BY JIM NAVEAU - Nov. 15, 2006[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]COLUMBUS ? Ten, twenty, even thirty years later, Ohio State football players remember OSU-Michigan games.
Two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin recalled his record in those games earlier this week as he stood in a hallway in the Schottenstein Center.
?We beat them three times and tied once. Never lost to them. That?s the thing I?m most proud of, never losing to Michigan,? Griffin said.
Buckeyes radio analyst Jim Lachey?s record against Michigan was nearly as good. ?1983 was the only one I lost,? he said.
On Monday, former linebacker Chris Spielman heard the two hosts of the Columbus radio sports talk show that follows his on WBNS refer to the 1986 game, which Ohio State lost, and called on his cell phone to tell them they?d ruined his day.
They all remember. Or in Spielman?s case, maybe they never forget.
For Griffin, his most unforgettable game was Ohio State?s 21-14 win over the Wolverines in 1975.
?That was a game we were behind in. We were rated No. 2 in the country going into that game and they had two ties. They were really taking it to us that day. We were down 14-7 with about four minutes to go in the game and we had to make something happen,? Griffin said.
Cornelius Greene led Ohio State on an 80-yard scoring drive to tie the game at 14-14, then Griffin?s brother Ray intercepted a pass and took it inside Michigan?s 5-yard line. Pete Johnson?s touchdown run won it for OSU.
?They were always a tough, tough battle,? Griffin said about the Michigan games he played. ?And I was always glad it was the last game of the regular season because I know that after some of those games I probably wouldn?t have been able to play the next week because the game was so physical.?
The first Michigan game that comes to mind for Lachey was the 1981 game in Ann Arbor his freshman year.
?You?re so jacked up it?s almost like you?re floating a little bit. You?re like, ?So this is what this is all about,? ? he said. The 1984 game was memorable for him because it clinched his only Rose Bowl trip. And he is also part of the Ohio State-Michigan game lore because of a play where Earle Bruce tried to make a ball-carrier out of him for one snap of the ball.
With Michigan leading 17-14 in the fourth quarter, Bruce called a play in which the center was supposed to snap the ball to quarterback Mike Tomczak, then take the ball back and place it on the ground.
Lachey, who had exceptional speed for an offensive lineman, was then supposed to pick up the ball and run with it.
In theory, it worked. In practice, it worked. In the game, it didn?t. Michigan?s nose guard put a big rush on Ohio State center Joe Dooley and pushed his foot back into the ball, forcing him to kick it slightly.
?When I turned, the ball was about nine yards deep. I thought, ?I don?t think I can reach that,? ? Lachey said.
He didn?t get to carry the ball but he thinks some things carried over from Michigan games to his 11-year NFL career.
?The intensity I learned from the Ohio State-Michigan game, I transferred to the NFL. I thought, ?If I can play every play like I played in the Ohio State-Michigan game, I?ll be fine,? ? Lachey said. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The game: Memories never fade[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]BY JIM NAVEAU - Nov. 15, 2006[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]COLUMBUS ? Ten, twenty, even thirty years later, Ohio State football players remember OSU-Michigan games.
Two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin recalled his record in those games earlier this week as he stood in a hallway in the Schottenstein Center.
?We beat them three times and tied once. Never lost to them. That?s the thing I?m most proud of, never losing to Michigan,? Griffin said.
Buckeyes radio analyst Jim Lachey?s record against Michigan was nearly as good. ?1983 was the only one I lost,? he said.
On Monday, former linebacker Chris Spielman heard the two hosts of the Columbus radio sports talk show that follows his on WBNS refer to the 1986 game, which Ohio State lost, and called on his cell phone to tell them they?d ruined his day.
They all remember. Or in Spielman?s case, maybe they never forget.
For Griffin, his most unforgettable game was Ohio State?s 21-14 win over the Wolverines in 1975.
?That was a game we were behind in. We were rated No. 2 in the country going into that game and they had two ties. They were really taking it to us that day. We were down 14-7 with about four minutes to go in the game and we had to make something happen,? Griffin said.
Cornelius Greene led Ohio State on an 80-yard scoring drive to tie the game at 14-14, then Griffin?s brother Ray intercepted a pass and took it inside Michigan?s 5-yard line. Pete Johnson?s touchdown run won it for OSU.
?They were always a tough, tough battle,? Griffin said about the Michigan games he played. ?And I was always glad it was the last game of the regular season because I know that after some of those games I probably wouldn?t have been able to play the next week because the game was so physical.?
The first Michigan game that comes to mind for Lachey was the 1981 game in Ann Arbor his freshman year.
?You?re so jacked up it?s almost like you?re floating a little bit. You?re like, ?So this is what this is all about,? ? he said. The 1984 game was memorable for him because it clinched his only Rose Bowl trip. And he is also part of the Ohio State-Michigan game lore because of a play where Earle Bruce tried to make a ball-carrier out of him for one snap of the ball.
With Michigan leading 17-14 in the fourth quarter, Bruce called a play in which the center was supposed to snap the ball to quarterback Mike Tomczak, then take the ball back and place it on the ground.
Lachey, who had exceptional speed for an offensive lineman, was then supposed to pick up the ball and run with it.
In theory, it worked. In practice, it worked. In the game, it didn?t. Michigan?s nose guard put a big rush on Ohio State center Joe Dooley and pushed his foot back into the ball, forcing him to kick it slightly.
?When I turned, the ball was about nine yards deep. I thought, ?I don?t think I can reach that,? ? Lachey said.
He didn?t get to carry the ball but he thinks some things carried over from Michigan games to his 11-year NFL career.
?The intensity I learned from the Ohio State-Michigan game, I transferred to the NFL. I thought, ?If I can play every play like I played in the Ohio State-Michigan game, I?ll be fine,? ? Lachey said. [/FONT]
Upvote
0
Link
Stories match rivalry
November 15, 2006
In Columbus, employees at Eddie George's Grille 27 are installing new block "M" footballs in the urinals at the popular campustown hangout.
Their preparations this week are timed for the rush leading up to Saturday's big game. When Ohio State fans excuse themselves from their tables, they literally will be able to pee on Michigan.
Also, a punk rock band that goes by the name of the Dead Schembechlers is warming for a pep rally-like performance on the eve of kickoff. The band features four guys who call themselves "Bo" and dress like the late-Woody Hayes. They sing hateful songs about every Michigan fan's favorite girlfriend, Miss Ann Arbor.
Bo Schembechler, the former Michigan coach and real, living legend, is said to have been cheered up upon checking out the Dead Schembechlers' Web site and learning how much he still matters in the land of Buckeyes. He has spent many of his days recently recovering from another heart episode.
These are the types of stories that have made headline news in the Detroit Free Press and many other newspaper and media outlets around the Midwest and across the nation. Each one is bigger and almost more unbelievable than the next, much like the game itself.
Michigan vs. Ohio State once was voted the greatest rivalry in all of sports, ahead of Chamberlain-Russell basketball and Ali-Frazier boxing. And, to think, never before have the two teams entered undefeated and ranked atop the national polls -- 1 vs. 2 -- heading into their annual November celebration of college football.
The stories, and rabid fans on both sides of the border war, have helped make the rivalry what is today, an enduring classic. But don't forget all the great players or all the great coaches. For every Randy Gradishar and Archie Griffin who have worn the Scarlet and Gray for Ohio State, Michigan counters with a Tom Brady or Charles Woodson. For every Bo, there has been a Woody.
In recent years, Ohio State's Jim Tressel has had counterpart Lloyd Carr's number. The Buckeyes have won four of the last five games in the series, including a 25-21 victory last season at UM's Big House. Troy Smith, the Heisman Trophy frontrunner, engineered two long fourth-quarter scoring drives to thwart an upset bid by Michigan.
As the week moves on, talk will turn more and more to the Xs and Os, the current players and current coaches, and rightfully so. Smith's return gives Ohio State an edge at the quarterback position. Michigan's 'D' line will attempt to pressure him into making some awkward, off-balance throws and uncharacteristic mistakes. LaMarr Woodley and Alan Branch give the Wolverines as good a 1-2 punch up front as anybody. Can they overcome the noise and assorted other distractions of playing on the road?
What makes this Michigan vs. Ohio State game bigger than ever is the possibility of a BCS rematch. The winner goes to the national title game on Jan. 8 in Glendale, Ariz. The loser could be sent to the desert in search of more than a drink of water. It all depends on how the rest of college football's dominoes fall.
Stories match rivalry
November 15, 2006
In Columbus, employees at Eddie George's Grille 27 are installing new block "M" footballs in the urinals at the popular campustown hangout.
Their preparations this week are timed for the rush leading up to Saturday's big game. When Ohio State fans excuse themselves from their tables, they literally will be able to pee on Michigan.
Also, a punk rock band that goes by the name of the Dead Schembechlers is warming for a pep rally-like performance on the eve of kickoff. The band features four guys who call themselves "Bo" and dress like the late-Woody Hayes. They sing hateful songs about every Michigan fan's favorite girlfriend, Miss Ann Arbor.
Bo Schembechler, the former Michigan coach and real, living legend, is said to have been cheered up upon checking out the Dead Schembechlers' Web site and learning how much he still matters in the land of Buckeyes. He has spent many of his days recently recovering from another heart episode.
These are the types of stories that have made headline news in the Detroit Free Press and many other newspaper and media outlets around the Midwest and across the nation. Each one is bigger and almost more unbelievable than the next, much like the game itself.
Michigan vs. Ohio State once was voted the greatest rivalry in all of sports, ahead of Chamberlain-Russell basketball and Ali-Frazier boxing. And, to think, never before have the two teams entered undefeated and ranked atop the national polls -- 1 vs. 2 -- heading into their annual November celebration of college football.
The stories, and rabid fans on both sides of the border war, have helped make the rivalry what is today, an enduring classic. But don't forget all the great players or all the great coaches. For every Randy Gradishar and Archie Griffin who have worn the Scarlet and Gray for Ohio State, Michigan counters with a Tom Brady or Charles Woodson. For every Bo, there has been a Woody.
In recent years, Ohio State's Jim Tressel has had counterpart Lloyd Carr's number. The Buckeyes have won four of the last five games in the series, including a 25-21 victory last season at UM's Big House. Troy Smith, the Heisman Trophy frontrunner, engineered two long fourth-quarter scoring drives to thwart an upset bid by Michigan.
As the week moves on, talk will turn more and more to the Xs and Os, the current players and current coaches, and rightfully so. Smith's return gives Ohio State an edge at the quarterback position. Michigan's 'D' line will attempt to pressure him into making some awkward, off-balance throws and uncharacteristic mistakes. LaMarr Woodley and Alan Branch give the Wolverines as good a 1-2 punch up front as anybody. Can they overcome the noise and assorted other distractions of playing on the road?
What makes this Michigan vs. Ohio State game bigger than ever is the possibility of a BCS rematch. The winner goes to the national title game on Jan. 8 in Glendale, Ariz. The loser could be sent to the desert in search of more than a drink of water. It all depends on how the rest of college football's dominoes fall.
Upvote
0
CPD
Great leaders revel in greeting rivalry
Wednesday, November 15, 2006Bud Shaw
Plain Dealer Columnist
Embracing a rivalry sounds easy enough.
College or pro, it comes with a public mandate built on rich tradition. A coach could almost find his way to a full appreciation of a rivalry's importance simply by catching the civic wave and riding it.
But John Cooper proved it wasn't so easy in Columbus, and various Browns coaches tripped and fell on their swords given opportunities to deliver to Cleveland what it so desperately wanted from Browns v. Steelers.
This particular Rivalry Week here is double-edged. Ohio State-Michigan followed by the Browns-Steelers offers reason to celebrate Jim Tressel while cursing Bill Cowher.
Tressel and Cowher don't have much in common.
Two coaches, one sweater vest.
Two coaches, one need for a spit bib.
What they share is having lived their respective rivalries before becoming coaches in them. They revel in the biggest game. They prod and educate. They especially don't try to treat it as just another afternoon of football.
And they succeed. It's not a coincidence.
Tressel owns the state. Cowher owns the Browns, at least until they prove otherwise.
Math is a popular subject in rivalries. Every Ohio kid who can add two plus two knows Tressel is 4-1 against Michigan coach Lloyd Carr.
Doing the math on the Browns-Steelers since Cowher became coach in Pittsburgh makes Tressel's work look like beginner's luck.
Cowher was 7-2 against Bill Belichick, 2-2 against Chris Palmer, 8-1 against Butch Davis. He's 2-0 against Romeo Crennel. That's 19-5.
Sunday in Atlanta, Crennel found himself addressing the Pittsburgh game immediately after the Browns' win. It's good he started early, even if he did so in response to talk among players still bruised from last year's 41-0 whipping on Christmas Eve. Crennel has a lot of catching up to do.
He obviously didn't have the team to compete last year when the Steelers won the Super Bowl. Cowher and his staff pointed to that Christmas Eve rout as the game that convinced them they could give away home field and still go on a playoff run.
But Cowher's winning side in the rivalry hasn't always been about having the better talent. Twice the Browns and his Steelers have met in the playoffs. Belichick was the coach when Pittsburgh won, 29-9, in January 1995. Davis was the coach in January 2003 when the Browns wasted Kelly Holcomb's lifetime of achievement.
Just as Tressel hit the ground in Columbus calling attention to the Michigan game, Cowher has always thrown himself into the Browns rivalry. His two oldest daughters were born here while he coached under Marty Schottenheimer. It came more naturally to him than it does to Crennel.
In one sense, Cowher has faced a more difficult sell than Tressel had. It's always easier stoking fires on the losing side of a rivalry.
Michigan is always formidable. Michigan football didn't disappear for three years because the owner moved it. When the Browns-Steelers rivalry resumed in '99, Cowher convinced his players the Browns refused to introduce them (not true) before the season opener. The Steelers took exception and won, 43-0.
Talent is always a factor. Mind-set plays a bigger role in certain games every season. This Rivalry Week brings two of them.
Great leaders revel in greeting rivalry
Wednesday, November 15, 2006Bud Shaw
Plain Dealer Columnist
Embracing a rivalry sounds easy enough.
College or pro, it comes with a public mandate built on rich tradition. A coach could almost find his way to a full appreciation of a rivalry's importance simply by catching the civic wave and riding it.
But John Cooper proved it wasn't so easy in Columbus, and various Browns coaches tripped and fell on their swords given opportunities to deliver to Cleveland what it so desperately wanted from Browns v. Steelers.
This particular Rivalry Week here is double-edged. Ohio State-Michigan followed by the Browns-Steelers offers reason to celebrate Jim Tressel while cursing Bill Cowher.
Tressel and Cowher don't have much in common.
Two coaches, one sweater vest.
Two coaches, one need for a spit bib.
What they share is having lived their respective rivalries before becoming coaches in them. They revel in the biggest game. They prod and educate. They especially don't try to treat it as just another afternoon of football.
And they succeed. It's not a coincidence.
Tressel owns the state. Cowher owns the Browns, at least until they prove otherwise.
Math is a popular subject in rivalries. Every Ohio kid who can add two plus two knows Tressel is 4-1 against Michigan coach Lloyd Carr.
Doing the math on the Browns-Steelers since Cowher became coach in Pittsburgh makes Tressel's work look like beginner's luck.
Cowher was 7-2 against Bill Belichick, 2-2 against Chris Palmer, 8-1 against Butch Davis. He's 2-0 against Romeo Crennel. That's 19-5.
Sunday in Atlanta, Crennel found himself addressing the Pittsburgh game immediately after the Browns' win. It's good he started early, even if he did so in response to talk among players still bruised from last year's 41-0 whipping on Christmas Eve. Crennel has a lot of catching up to do.
He obviously didn't have the team to compete last year when the Steelers won the Super Bowl. Cowher and his staff pointed to that Christmas Eve rout as the game that convinced them they could give away home field and still go on a playoff run.
But Cowher's winning side in the rivalry hasn't always been about having the better talent. Twice the Browns and his Steelers have met in the playoffs. Belichick was the coach when Pittsburgh won, 29-9, in January 1995. Davis was the coach in January 2003 when the Browns wasted Kelly Holcomb's lifetime of achievement.
Just as Tressel hit the ground in Columbus calling attention to the Michigan game, Cowher has always thrown himself into the Browns rivalry. His two oldest daughters were born here while he coached under Marty Schottenheimer. It came more naturally to him than it does to Crennel.
In one sense, Cowher has faced a more difficult sell than Tressel had. It's always easier stoking fires on the losing side of a rivalry.
Michigan is always formidable. Michigan football didn't disappear for three years because the owner moved it. When the Browns-Steelers rivalry resumed in '99, Cowher convinced his players the Browns refused to introduce them (not true) before the season opener. The Steelers took exception and won, 43-0.
Talent is always a factor. Mind-set plays a bigger role in certain games every season. This Rivalry Week brings two of them.
Upvote
0