Forever Evergreen: UW Football and WSU Football Impress in Week One

Evergreen State Football Flexes Their Strength

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. In the state of Washington, the UW football and WSU football teams got off to hot starts, offenses clicking in blowout wins against Eastern Washington and New Mexico State. Overall, Washington and Washington State outscored their opponents 105-21. It was an excellent start to the season for Evergreen State Football fans and teams alike. With each game in the books, here are the big takeaways.

Check back every Tuesday for a new edition of Forever Evergreen.

Quarterbacks Jacob Eason and Anthony Gordon Set the Field Ablaze

Wow. Could it have played out any better for Eason and Gordon in their openers? Washington State Football quarterbacks are the best of the bunch (minus Justin Herbert obviously).

Jacob Eason

Eason, in his debut, set the record for the most passing yards in a UW football debut with 349 yards. His 4 touchdowns were also the most in a UW opener since Brock Huard in 1998. He led the Huskies to touchdowns on their first three drives and opened a 21-0 lead. As a former number one recruit, Eason lived up to the hype and put all the other Jake quarterbacks to shame.

Additionally, Eason displayed both arm-strength and touch. Though players and beat reporters talked up his arm strength over spring and summer, it was nice to see how it played out in a game. He made 50-plus yard throws look easy. And while his 50-yard touchdown to Andre Baccellia was impressive, it was not nearly as impressive as his incomplete pass to Aaron Fuller. After an awkward snap, Eason somehow managed to heave a 60-yard bomb to Fuller. Though it sailed over his intended receiver (possibly due to Fuller slowing down), it nonetheless displayed quick decision-making and natural arm-strength. All in all, Eason looked good. 

Anthony Gordon

Not to be outdone by his Puget Sound rival, Anthony Gordon made things look easy. In less than three quarters, Gordon lit up New Mexico State for 420 yards and 5 touchdowns. Yes, the Mike Leach Air Raid Offense makes the quarterback’s job easier, but not that easy. In fact, Gordon ended the first half with an insane line: 22 for 23, 330 yards and 4 touchdowns. Unbelievable.

In his impressive victory, Gordon completed passes to 9 different receivers and threw touchdowns to 4 different ones. He spread the ball around well. Gordon was decisive, precise, and carved through New Mexico State. He led the Cougars to a touchdown on each of their five, first half drives. Though he’s a redshirt senior without any Pac-12 experience prior to this game, he let his name be known. Anthony Gordon and Mike Leach made their case for the Pac-12’s best offense.

Other Offensive Highlights

UW Seniors Lead the Team in Receiving

Seniors Hunter Bryant (TE), Andre Baccellia (WR), Aaron Fuller (WR) and Chico McClatcher (WR) led the team in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. It was a senior day all the way. Each notched at least five receptions from Jacob Eason. It appears that Eason and coach Peterson are completely fine with riding the talent and experience of their senior playmakers in the pass game.

UW and WSU Have Breakout Running Backs

Richard Newton came out of nowhere. On his first collegiate touch, Newton took it 23 yards to the end zone. He continued his redshirt freshman debut and totaled 91 yards on 12 carries. At 6-foot, 210lbs, Newton was difficult to tackle and displayed excellent rushing instincts and power.

Max Borghi of WSU displayed efficiency and explosiveness. On just 10 carries, Borghi broke the century mark with 128 rushing yards. As many already know, Borghi showed an ability to catch passes last season. With his impressive opener as the leading rusher, Borghi looks to be the Pac-12’s leader in yards from scrimmage at the end of the season.

Will these Evergreen State Football running backs be the best in the Pac-12?

Defenses Bend, But Don’t Break with the New Guys

Though the scoreboard would deceive most, there was a lot that UW football and WSU football could have done better. 

UW allowed 274 yards and two touchdowns. Additionally, they let the Eagles march down the field with 79 and 84 back-to-back drives. With that being said, Chris Peterson rotated in a variety of redshirt and true freshmen on defense. Cam Williams, Laiatu Latu, Alphonzo Tuputala, Trent McDuffie, Asa Turner, Jackson Sirmon, M.J. Tafisi, Tuli Letuligasenoa, Sam Taimani, Faatui Tuitele, Jacob Bandes, Noa Ngalu all got snaps. So obviously there is room for growth. Additionally, the Dawgs notched 4 sacks, 9 tackles for a loss, and 1 safety. They also allowed just 2.1 yards per carry to the Eagles. All in all, it was a promising day for Chris Peterson’s defense. It looks like Peterson has once again recruited and schemed a top defense for the Huskies.

WSU on the other hand, looked both shaky and solid. Yes, they held New Mexico State to just one touchdown. However, they gave up the touchdown just after Anthony Gordon marched WSU down the field. They let New Mexico tie the game 7-7 right away. Additionally the Cougars’ defense allowed nearly 200 yards in the first half. Their defensive line was pushed around more than the scoreboard showed. But, WSU did an excellent job making adjustments in the second half and continuing their dominance. Overall, WSU’s defensive line is the most suspect. They need to find quality players that can penetrate and make consistent, defensive stops.

Justin Herbert Auburn Oregon
Justin Herbert and the Ducks weren’t so fortunate against Auburn ( Photo by Matthew Emmons / USA Today )

The Rest of the Bunch

Apart from Utah, Washington and Washington State had the best weekends. It was a very good week for Evergreen State football fans. Unlike them, Oregon had a rough time. After leading by 15 in the third quarter, buckled to Auburn. They lost the biggest Pac-12 game of the week (and possibly the season). This extended the Pac-12’s losing streak to 10 against ranked, SEC opponents. As much as it helps Washington and Washington State in their Pac-12 rankings, Oregon’s loss hurts the Pac-12 conference overall. 

Overall, the Pac-12 went 1-2 against Power Five teams, 5-2 against Group of Five (including independent BYU and New Mexico State) teams and 2-0 against FCS teams. Not inspiring. If the Pac-12 wants to be taken seriously as a conference, teams need to win every out of conference game. It obviously doesn’t help when Oregon collapses late to Auburn. But UCLA, Oregon State, USC and Cal looked like they kept last season’s issues. They were lackluster. Additionally, USC lost their quarterback to a knee injury. J.T. Daniels had to be carted off. Pac-12 teams needed to step up this season, and many teams aren’t.

As the dust settles from Week 1 of the Pac-12, Evergreen State Football appears primed for the top-spot. Stanford’s schedule is too difficult. USC has a difficult schedule, displayed poor play/judgement and lost their quarterback. Colorado needs a defense. Cal needs an offense. Oregon lost when it counted most. 

It’s a year for the Evergreen State to claim the top spots. Though, Utah was impressive and Oregon could bounce back. If Oregon proves to be just shy of elite, Utah and WSU can each attempt to leap UW this season.

Pac-12 Power Rankings Week 2: Solid Start for the Conference

Pac-12 Power Rankings Week 2

Welcome to the Pac-12 Power Rankings Week 2. The conference had a strong week one at 8-4. A team from the Pac-12 has a real chance to make the College Football Playoffs in 2019. However, those chances took a real blow with Oregon’s loss to Auburn. There is a lot of football left to be played and it’s not over yet. The conference has a chance to quiet all the outside noise about money and tv deals, and the Pac-12 network by winning the rest of their non-conference games.

Pac-12 Power Rankings Week 2:

Teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. Only games played matter. No consideration is given for future games. The Pac-12 Power Rankings will available on Unafraid Show every Monday morning. Make sure you send your comments and grievances to immad@unafraidshow.com.

12. Oregon State Beavers (0-1)

Last Week: 36-52 (L) OSU

The Oregon State offense put up nearly 450 yards of offense against Oklahoma State. A productive offense was a welcome sight for their fans However, Oregon State gave up nearly 600 including 352 on the ground. It is going to be a long season for the defense if they cannot stop the run. Pac-12 running backs will be looking to pad their stats on Beavers week.

11. Arizona Wildcats (0-1)

Last Week: OPEN

Arizona mercifully had an open ween last week. They needed time to mentally recover from losing to Hawaii. They get a chance to redeem themselves in an expected blowout win against Northern Arizona… I really hope I didn’t just jinx them.

10. UCLA Bruins (0-1)

Last Week: 14-24 (L) Cincinnatti

After week 1 I could not have lost any more hope in my darkhorse Pac-12 South pick. Chip Kelly’s offense is totally unrecognizable from his Oregon days. UCLA wasn’t fast, efficient, or explosive. Dorian Thompson-Robinson appeared to have a regression from his freshman year in week 1. If he is not better against San Diego State this week we may see a change at QB. Coaches say teams make the biggest improvements from week 1, so there’s hope.

9. Colorado Buffaloes (1-0)

Last Week: 52-31 (W) vs Colorado State

A win is a win for Colorado. They snapped their 7-game losing streak dating back to last season. Mel Tucker has his team on the right track. The best part of the win was that they did it without a big game from their best player Laviska Shenault. He only finished with a combined 6 touches for 83 yards and 1 touchdown. The bad news is that they gave up 505 yards of total offense including 374 passing yards to an inferior CSU team. Next week will be a real test as Nebraska rolls into town.

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8. Cal Golden Bears (1-0)

Last Week: 27-13 (W) vs UC Davis

Cal was expected to blow the doors off of UC Davis, but they got a scare through the first three quarters. The defense was stout as usual but the quarterback play by Chase Garbers left a lot to be desired in the first half. He did rally to end up with a respectable 238 yard, 2 touchdowns, 1 int day. Justin Wilcox has to be hoping that his young QB just had first-game jitters and will be better going forward. The bright spot was Christopher Brown Jr. who rushed for 197 yards and a touchdown on 36 carries. We will see what this team is made of next week at Washington.

7. Arizona State Sun Devils (1-0)

Last Week: 30-7 (W) vs Kent State

This was totally a good news, bad news game for ASU. The good news is that they won. Freshman Qb Jayden Daniels played well. Eno Benjamin picked up from where he left off last season. The bad news is that the Sun Devils only scored 30 points against Kent State. The offensive line allowed too much pressure on Daniels. Next week should be another cakewalk for ASU against Sacramento State. I don’t even understand why power 5 schools are even allowed to schedule FCS teams.

6. Washington State Cougars (1-0)

Last Week: 58-7 (W) vs New Mexico State

I am completely unimpressed by a 50 point win over one of the worst FBS teams in college football. Anthony Gordon got the start at quarterback and lit it up to the tune of 420 yards and 5 touchdowns. Max Borghi also added 128 yards and a touchdown on the ground. We will have no clue what this team is made out of until they get to Pac-12 conference play. Northern Colorado and Houston should be wins the next two weeks for the Cougs.

5. USC Trojans

Last Week: 31-23 (W) vs Fresno State

Before the game, I said USC would win but do little to quiet the uncertainty about Clay Helton’s job security. That is exactly what happened. The team had opportunities to put Fresno State away but just couldn’t get it done. To make matters worse, starting quarterback JT Daniels was lost for the season with a torn ACL and MCL. Now Helton must either turn to either freshman Kedon Slovis or a player who just entered the transfer portal (Sears). USC is still talented enough to finish the season atop the Pac-12 Power Rankings, but it’s unlikely.

4. Utah Utes (1-0)

Last Week: 30-12 (W) vs BYU

Impressive win by Utah in the ‘Holy War’ against BYU. Their defense absolutely locked everything down in the second half. Zack Moss returned from injury with a vengeance. He finished with 29 carries for 187 yards and 1 touchdown. Tyler Huntley only threw for 106 yards and was not impressive, but he didn’ need to be. After one week, Utah is the class of the Pac-12 south.

3. Washington Huskies (1-0)

Last Week: 47-14 (W) vs Eastern Washington

Much like Washington State and Arizona State, it is hard to move up the Pac-12 Power Rankings playing FCS or Mid-American Conference teams. The Huskies did completely dominate, as expected, so they earned high marks for dominance but no marks for quality wins or schedule played. Chris Petersen showed that no matter how many players he loses to the NFL, Washington won’t be rebuilding, only reloading. Jacob Eason looked as good as advertised. If he can put up a top tier game against Cal’s nasty pass defense I will be a believer.

2. Oregon Ducks (0-1)

Last Week: 27-21 (L) vs Auburn (in Dallas)

Why on earth do I have an 0-1 team #2 in the Pac-12 Power Rankings Week 2? The Ducks played the toughest game in the nation in Week 1 against Auburn. They performed well and the game looked like a win that got away. The offense was much too conservative in the second half and let Auburn steal the game. The Ducks defense looks fast, physical, and well-coached. Oregon’s offensive line held their own against the best defensive line in the nation. The Pac-12 could be theirs to claim if they keep the pedal to the metal all game.

1. Stanford Cardinal (1-0)

Last Week: 17-7 (W) vs Northwestern

Stanford had the second toughest opponent of week 1 with Northwestern. Their defense was extremely impressive. They held Northwestern to 210 total yards. Right when the Cardinal started rolling offensively in the first half their quarterback KJ Costello was knocked out with a concussion on an uncalled targeting call. In the second half, Stanford more or less just took the air out of the football and held on for deal life for a 17-7 win.

Stanford’s win was not pretty, but it was a win against a quality opponent nonetheless. The Cardinal deserves to be on top of the Pac-12 Power Rankings Week 2.

Check back every Monday for the Pac-12 Power Rankings.

Pac-12 Players Needing Big Years for the NFL Draft

Pac-12 Power Rankings Week 4

College football is finally here. The Power Rankings are in and the season has started. But the Pac-12 season is more than just teams and team-wins. There is an individual end game… The NFL Draft.

Each year, a maximum of 256 college athletes can be drafted each year by the NFL. Only 256. Out of every college and thousands upon thousands of draft prospects. Most players make their way onto scouts’ lists early in their collegiate careers. But, for this set of senior, offensive Pac-12 players, they desperately need to make the most of their final season.

The Five Offensive Pac-12 Players Needing it Most

Aaron Fuller – UW – Senior – Wide Receiver

With 58 receptions and 874 yards, Aaron Fuller finally had his breakout season in 2018. He led the Huskies in 2018 and looks to do the same this season. Even though UW lost the Rose Bowl, Fuller stood out with 7 receptions. Furthermore, he’s cemented himself on the Biletnikoff Award watch list.

Nonetheless, Fuller has a lot to prove this season. As many already know, the most talented wide receivers in college leave early for the draft. Of note though, the 2019 NFL draft was different. Deebo Samuel, JJ Arcega-Whiteside, Parris Campbell and Andy Isabella were drafted in the second round. All of them were seniors. So, there is definitely hope for Fuller. And with 874 yards, he certainly has a good base to build off of.

But, he still needs to step up. Fuller has to display explosiveness. At 5-foot-11, 188lbs, he’s not going to turn heads like DK Metcalf. However, he’s the type of receiver the NFL is evolving to enjoy. As a senior, Fuller has to get the counting stats, display good route running and hands for the scouts, ball-out at the Senior Bowl. If he’s having his best year, hopefully he’ll get a chance to push his name into the draft with an NFL Combine invite as well. All in all, Fuller needs to be Washington’s steady and reliable playmaker this year. 

Anthony Gordon – WSU – Redshirt Senior – Quarterback

2 games. 5 attempts. 3 completions. 17 yards. 1 interception.

That is all that Anthony Gordon, redshirt senior, has to show for his WSU career. Yet, somehow he earned the nod from Mike Leach. After losing Gardner Minshew, the Pac-12’s leader in pass attempts, pass completions, passing yards and passing touchdowns, Mike Leach turned to the older, yet unknown, Gordon. 

As a true underdog, Gordon first played in Junior College for the City College of San Francisco. But, he led the CCCAA Conference in passing yards (3,864) and touchdowns (37) as a true freshman. In addition, Gordon led his team to a CCCAA Championship and earned the CCCAA Championship Game MVP. So, he’s at least got that going for him.

Now, after redshirting and sitting on the bench for three seasons at WSU, it’s Gordon’s time to shine. Fortunately for him, he plays for Washington State University. He’s got a team around him and the perfect head coach for quarterbacks. In Mike Leach’s Air Raid offense, quarterbacks are given friendly schemes and can compile big numbers. As a redshirt senior with no NCAA experience, Gordon needs everything he can get. Off all of the offensive Pac-12 players on this list, he’s the biggest underdog right now. In order to make it to the NFL, he needs to brand his name on the NFL scout list with big-time throws and massive numbers.

Noah Togiai – OSU – Redshirt Senior – Tight End

Snakebitten by injuries, Noah Togiai has to prove that he can stay healthy. After breaking out in 2017 with 34 receptions, 461 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, Togiai caught just 10 passes in 2018. His production took a major dip and injuries were a large part of that.

“He’s done a lot of good things,” Beavers offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren told NBCSNW. “I think last year he was probably like 80 percent… I don’t think we really saw what he’s capable of doing in the pass game.”

After tearing his ACL in the Beavers’ second game of 2016. Additionally, he missed the first three games of the 2018 season. Thankfully, Togiai was granted an extra season of eligibility in 2017 because of his ACL tear. He’s lucky. Because of this medical hardship season, Togiai didn’t have to finish his collegiate career on a 10 reception, 77 yard season. However, he needs to prove he is able to withstand the brutality of an NFL-level game. Can he do that? It’s unclear, especially considering he’s battling an ankle injury he sustained in spring camp. But, if he can stay healthy, Togiai could become Oregon State’s third receiver and one of the best offensive Pac-12 players at the tight end position.

Juwan Johnson – Oregon – Redshirt Senior – Wide Receiver

Unfortunately for Oregon, their wide receiving corps hit the injury bug. Brenden Schooler, Mycah Pittman and Juwan Johnson are each dealing with their own. While Schooler and Pittman are likely out for the first few weeks, there is hope that Johnson can suit up for Auburn.

https://twitter.com/Rotoworld_Draft/status/1165296220924829697

If Johnson is able to suit up, he could quickly become a favorite target for Justin Herbert. Because if the Penn State transfer is one thing, he is a large target. At 6-foot-4, 230lbs, Johnson certainly garners attention. He’s big, powerful and has a frame unlike the other receivers on the team. Johnson also brings experience to the Ducks squad. He played the most games of any Ducks receiver. As a veteran, he is going to be both a role-model for younger receivers and a reliable option for Herbert.

“I’m here to be a leader,” he said. “That’s my job here, come in and bring a leader and bring that energy to the team. I want to bring the guys up so we can win a Pac-12 championship, national championship and those sort of things.”

If he can regain his health, Juwan Johnson can step into the void and separate himself from the rest of Oregon’s playmakers. The path for him to breakout in the list of top, offensive Pac-12 players is there. He’s on a great offense, on a top team, with needs at the position. Get healthy and get out there Johnson.

Cameron Scarlett – Stanford Redshirt Senior – Running Back

No Bryce Love. Washington drafted him in the fourth-round of the 2019 draft. No JJ Arcega-Whiteside. The Philadelphia Eagles picked him up in the second round. No Trenton Irwin. The Miami Dolphins scooped him up as an undrafted free-agent. So, Stanford lost their feature back and two top receivers. Someone needs to step up.

Out of the shadows steps Cameron Scarlett. The fifth-year back has yet to break out. Which makes complete sense. He’s played behind not only Bryce Love, but Christian McCaffrey as well. It’s not easy to usurp Heisman hopeful running backs. But this year, he doesn’t have to. The backfield is his for the taking.

Fortunately for Scarlett, he’s not completely green. In both 2017 and 2018, he displayed versatility in rushing and receiving. Scarlett’s 719 rushing yards and 283 receiving yards in 2017 and 2018 display this. He also notched 8 rushing touchdowns in each, along with 1 receiving touchdown in 2018. Finding the paydirt is obviously a good thing. Moreover, Scarlett displayed exceptional special-teams play. In 2017, his 1,008 kick return yards ranked second nationally and first in the Pac-12.  

His feature-back size (6-foot-1, 216lbs), combined with his dual-threat ability and versatility in the return-game, should provide ample opportunity for him in 2019. But, he’s a redshirt-senior without a feature-back year on his resume. Scarlett has to make that happen. In 2019, he needs to capitalize on volume and display his ability to be a bell-cow back.

Why the Pac-12 Moving Away from 9am Games is Only Step One

Pac-12 9am games Larry Scott Commissioner

Those on the west coast may enjoy their coffee but 9am Pac-12 games were a ridiculous thought. And fortunately, for at least one year, Larry Scott decided it is the Pac-12’s best interest to avoid 9am kickoffs.

The idea gained some traction earlier in the offseason, as it would allow games to be featured at 12 pm on the east coast, putting them in a more favorable TV time slot. This was much to the chagrin of west coast fans, who would lose their precious tailgating time and would have to get up at the crack of dawn. It would also take them away from watching some great Big Ten and early east coast games.

The decision to squash 9am Pac-12 games was a good one, but it was only step one in what should eventually be an overhaul of the conference’s priorities. Gone should be the days of focusing on TV deals and bowing down to the desires of the big TV stations – who are always going to prioritize the SEC and ACC anyway.

Instead, the Pac-12 must re-align themselves with their fan bases, making games a much more enjoyable experience. Fans should be encouraged to enjoy the stadium, not have to worry about where they will watch their favorite teams.

Time for the Pac-12 to be Forward Thinking with Distribution

Sure, TV is still a lucrative business for college football – but with less and less younger people subscribing to cable, and with ESPN and other big-name sports broadcasters losing business left and right, it makes sense for the Pac-12 to stay progressive and ahead of the curve.

Perhaps they could look into making their games more accessible on social media? Or on subscription services like Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Prime, the latter of which is in the University of Washington’s backyard? These things may become tricky if the NCAA steps in, but it is worth looking into for a conference that should not be afraid to stir things up instead of catering to the TV powers that be.

Engage with fans, in-person, and not during 9am Pac-12 kickoffs

There are, of course, multiple ways to cater to fans that don’t also disrupt the enjoyment of the game on TV, including lowering concession prices, selling alcohol in the stadiums (five stadiums don’t allow alcohol, and many others only allow it in small areas) and upping fan interaction with players and coaches. Teams could offer more on-field activities, autograph sessions, tailgating with players, etc.

Overall, the Pac-12 is running into serious financial issues thanks to a myriad of concerns at the upper level of the conference. Bowing down to an outdated industry like TV is only going to make things worse. To think 9am Pac-12 kickoffs would bring additional revenue completely ignores what should drive conference decisions: coaches, players and fan experience. What good is it to broadcast a 9am game to the nation when half the seats in the stadium are empty? Is this the impression the Pac-12 wants to make to national audiences?

The west coast is progressive and so is the Pac-12. 9am kickoffs, however imaginative and new to those in the west, are not. Instead the conference needs to be innovative the ways it engages fans at stadiums, taking some of the responsibility from individual programs and helping change the image of the Pac-12 for the better.

Pac-12 Football Seasons: The 2019 Colorado Buffaloes

Colorado-buffaloes-ralphie

The year was 2016 and the Colorado Buffaloes were back. From the depths of college football they rose to college football’s national spotlight. It felt like the start of a new era, one that would see the Buffaloes contend for years to come. Now just three years removed from a Pac-12 South Division title, the 2019 Colorado Buffaloes football team finds itself in a completely new era, just not the one they may have expected. 

2016 was a banner year for Colorado. A program known as one of the most consistent throughout college football history, the Buffaloes struggled throughout the 2000s and saw the program become a shade of its former self. Yet 2016 was a big step in the right direction. It was a year that proved Colorado had the means to contend with the best and that the passion is there to drive the team forward. However, after their successful 2016 season, Colorado has had back-to-back 5-7 seasons, leaving fans to wonder where the program stands. 

Appropriately enough the 2019 Colorado Buffaloes football program is coming off a 2018 season that was really a tale of two seasons. 

A TALE OF TWO SEASONS

As the final whistle blew in the Colorado Buffaloes’ loss to the Utah Utes on November 17, 2018, many got the sense that it was the end of an era. In particular, the Mike MacIntyre era. This was the coach who bought Colorado from the depths of the Pac-12 and saw them claim a Pac-12 South division title just two years prior. The coach who hugged his son as the Buffaloes conquered Lincoln, Nebraska a few months earlier. The coach who had the town buzzing after a 5-0 start.

Unfortunately, Colorado’s collapse was swift. MacIntyre’s Buffaloes, hobbled by injuries, lost seven straight to finish the season 5-7. Losses included blowing a 31-3 lead to the lowly Oregon State Beavers and blowouts dealt by Washington and Utah, the latter of which sealed MacIntyre’s fate, even with one game remaining. Quarterbacks coach Kurt Roper served as interim head coach in Colorado’s loss to California, making the team bowl-ineligible for the eighth time this decade.

Needing to instill a new mentality for the Buffaloes, Athletic Director Rick George wanted to find a coach who would mold a winning mindset into the players. The SEC prides itself on being hard-nosed and having a football-first attitude. The Buffs needed this. They needed the culture to shift in Colorado, back to their intimidating presence of old. And after conducting a thorough coaching search, one candidate emerged above the rest: Mel Tucker.

The defensive coordinator at Georgia in 2018, Mel Tucker fit the bill for Colorado Athletic Director Rick George.

“[Tucker] has great experience and a terrific pedigree; I like the way he coaches football, his toughness and accountability,” George said at Tucker’s introductory press conference on December 6, 2018. 

THE MEL TUCKER ERA OF COLORADO FOOTBALL

Tucker brings to Colorado both college and NFL experience. Playing as a defensive back in the early 1990s for Wisconsin, Tucker’s early career saw him take on roles at Michigan State, Miami (OH), LSU and Ohio State, eventually becoming co-defensive coordinator for the Buckeyes in 2004. He made the jump to the NFL in 2005, eventually becoming the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns (2008) and Jacksonville Jaguars (2009-2011). He also had a stint as interim head coach of the Jaguars in 2011 before resuming his defensive coordinator role in 2012. 

Known for aggressive defenses and his ability to infuse energy into programs, Tucker couldn’t forward his success to the Chicago Bears, where he served as defensive coordinator for two seasons before being let go. 

Tucker returned to the college game in 2015 with the heavy-hitting Alabama Crimson Tide before serving as Georgia’s defensive coordinator from 2016-2018.

Hired to see the Buffaloes return to their glory days, Tucker has been adamant about making Colorado realize its potential by respecting its greats. He’s mentioned Colorado legends Kordell Stewart, Rashaan Salaam, and Alfred Williams when talking about how the Buffaloes will become a dominant team, and he’s already got the talent to start the Buffaloes’ ascent to consistent relevance. 

OFFENSIVE WEAPONS, DEFENSIVE QUESTION MARKS

Offensively, Colorado returns with firepower, led by preseason AP All-American Laviska Shenault, Jr. The team also returns quarterback Steven Montez as starter. Montez finished with a completion percentage of 64%, 2,825 passing yards, and a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 18:8 in 2018. His passer efficiency was 135.8, which was good for 7th in the Pac-12. With how 2018 ended, it is important that Montez shows the Buffs’ faithful that he is up to the task of getting Colorado to a bowl game after failing to secure a sixth win after a 5-0 start. Montez will look to lead the Buffaloes in new offensive coordinator Jay Johnson’s system, which will employ concepts from the spread, air-raid, and pro-style offenses. Opposing defenses should expect to see multiple looks from the Buffs’ offense, and this could lead to Montez making a name for himself among the Pac-12’s great quarterbacks. 

The defense, under new defensive coordinator Tyson Summers, is led by junior defensive end Mustafa Johnson and junior linebacker Nate Landman. It will be a base 3-4 but may line up four defensive linemen at a time. Tucker has been known to run variations of the 3-4 and 4-3 defense in the past as a coordinator, and having different looks will help the Buffaloes possibly confuse opponents this season and break through in the Pac-12 south.

A TRICKY SCHEDULE

There is plenty of optimism heading into Tucker’s first year as head coach. The pieces are there to have a season not many outside of Boulder expect the Buffaloes to have. Most believe Tucker’s first year will be an uphill battle. In the preseason Pac-12 media poll, the Buffs were picked to finish last in the South. However, there is no clear-cut favorite and the Pac-12 South is open for anyone’s taking. Utah is the safe pick to win both the division and conference, and the Utes proves to be the Buffs toughest game in the Pac-12 South. They travel to Rice-Eccles Stadium on November 30. 

The teams the Buffs will play from the Pac-12 North may prove more difficult than those in the South, as Stanford and Washington will come to Boulder on November 9 and 23, respectively, and the Buffs will have October road trips to hostile Eugene, Oregon and Pullman, Washington to play Oregon and Washington State. 

The schedule doesn’t let up in non-conference play after The Rocky Mountain Showdown, either, as Colorado hosts Nebraska on September 7. For fans of classic college football rivalries, this is not a game to miss. 

But before the Buffaloes shift their focus to the Cornhuskers, they must get past in-state rival Colorado State. 

THE SEASON BEGINS

On Friday the 2019 Colorado Buffaloes football team descends upon Denver to meet in-state rival Colorado State in the Rocky Mountain Showdown. The Buffs lead the all-time series 66-22-2, and are looking for their 5th straight win in the series. It will be the last Rocky Mountain Showdown in Denver (at least for the time being), thus providing additional bragging rights to the victor. The 2020 matchup is to be played in Fort Collins and the programs will not resume the rivalry until 2023 in Boulder.It is important for the morale of coaches, players, and fans alike for the team to prove they are a step ahead of the program 64 miles north.

There is a new enthusiasm about the Buffaloes entering 2019, and it’s hard not to see why. The 2019 Colorado Buffaloes football team is primed to be potent offensively, so long as Montez and Shenault remain healthy and a couple others step up to ease the burden. Mel Tucker and a new defensive coordinator will have the defense trending in the right direction and the head coach’s mindset is exactly what Colorado football is all about. Tough, punishing and confident. Colorado wouldn’t have it any other way.

Arizona Loses, Pac-12 Power Rankings, Larry Scott Rumors, Miller Moss Interview, Andrew Luck

Pac-12 Apostles Ep 5 Pac-12 Podcast college Football

On the Pac-12 Apostles Ep 5 podcast, George Wrighster and Ralph Amsden are over the moon about the start of college football season. The opening game in the Pac-12 was a zero week game between the Arizona Wildcats and Hawaii Rainbow Warriors. George and Ralph break down Arizona’s loss. All the Apostles know that Ralph has a man-crush on Khalil Tate so he has some explaining to do about Arizona’s loss to Hawaii.

George and Ralph unveil their Pac-12 Football Preseason Power Rankings to start the season. They disagree on just about every team. Send us your Pac-12 Power Rankings to: immad@unafraidshow.com

There have been rumors swirling around about Pac-12 commissioner Larry Scott being replaced before season’s end. Will this happen? If so, who would be the prime candidates to replace him? Ralph enlightens us about the behind the scene whispers.

Listen on any Podcast Platform: Anchor // Spotify // Apple Podcasts // PocketCasts // Google Play // Stitcher // RadioPublic

The Apostles discuss clips from an interview Ralph did with Pac-12 quarterback recruit Miller Moss (Bishop Alemany). He shed light on where he believes the best college football is played and how he will make his commitment decision.

5* recruit Justin Flowe’s bodyslam.

Finally, on Pac-12 Apostles Ep 5, George and Ralph discuss the shocking retirement of Andrew Luck and Doug Gottlieb’s tweet.

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Check back every Monday and Thursday for new Episodes of the Pac-12 College Football Apostles Podcast.

These Games Could Land the Pac-12 on ESPN College Gameday

Pac-12 ESPN College Football gameday

College football is back, and with it comes the return of the best sports show in all of sports: ESPN College GameDay. Now in its 26th year of the live show format (the program technically began in 1987 as an in-studio show), College GameDay kicked-off the season in proper fashion at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, highlighting the huge Miami vs. Florida ‘Week 0‘ matchup. And while the atmosphere was outstanding, next week’s feature of Auburn and Oregon in the Advocare Classic is bound to be something special, and is just one of the many college football matchups that could feature the Pac-12 on College GameDay.

Having national attention shift to the Pac-12 is critical, especially as the conference looks to bolster its reputation. There’s no better way of doing this than a featured matchup on College GameDay. Yes, the conference has to win on the field and yes, many of the games listed below could have their “watchability” change as the season progresses, but there’s no denying the influence ESPN College GameDay has in drawing national attention.

Here are the games that could get the Pac-12 on College GameDay throughout the course of the year.

Weeks Ruled Out

Before taking a dive into what weeks and games could see Pac-12 teams featured on College GameDay, there are a few weeks where the show is pretty much booked sans Pac-12.

  • Week 2: Texas A&M vs. Clemson
  • Week 4: Michigan vs. Wisconsin OR Notre Dame vs. Georgia
  • Week 9: Auburn vs. LSU OR Notre Dame vs. Michigan OR Penn State vs. Michigan State
  • Week 10: LSU vs. Alabama
  • Week 14: Ohio State vs. Michigan

With just five weeks out of contention to feature the Pac-12 on College GameDay, the conference could see itself attract a fair share of national attention, even if this means Rece Davis and the gang will have to wake up a bit earlier.

Stanford vs. UCF OR Oklahoma vs. UCLA (Week 3)

After College GameDay’s undoubted visit to Clemson for Texas A&M vs. Clemson, the Pac-12 has a legitimate shot at seeing one of its teams featured on the show in week three, with Stanford, Arizona State and UCLA all in play. Much of this will depend on the outcome of UCLA’s week one matchup against Cincinnati and Stanford’s brutal first two weeks (vs. Northwestern, at USC), but should both those teams head into week three undefeated, their matchups are attractive enough for a College GameDay appearance. Oklahoma vs. UCLA, in particular, could be an outstanding matchup. The backdrop of the Rose Bowl would be a welcomed bonus.

PASADENA, CA – SEPTEMBER 15: Head coach Chip Kelly of the UCLA Bruins talks with Dorian Thompson-Robinson #7 during the second quarter against the Fresno State Bulldogs at Rose Bowl on September 15, 2018 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Biggest Competition: Iowa vs. Iowa State, Clemson vs. Syracuse

Washington State vs. Utah OR USC vs. Washington (Week 5)

The Washington schools have a great shot at seeing the Northwest’s best on College GameDay come week 5 of the season, especially if their opponents can play to some lofty expectations. Washington State vs. Utah is particularly intriguing and would be a great feature of the Pac-12 on College GameDay, giving Utah a shot to showcase its passionate fan base and WSU to continue its upward trajectory.

Biggest Competition: Ohio State vs. Nebraska

California vs. Oregon OR Washington vs. Stanford (Week 6)

Both of these games could be pivotal in the outcome of the Pac-12 North. With the California Golden Bears being a sleeper pick in the conference, should Cal surprise the Huskies in week two and hold steady at Ole Miss, their visit in Week 6 to Eugene could be a big matchup in the Pac-12 and in the College Football Playoff Picture.

Conversely, if the Huskies play to expectations and Stanford survives its brutal start to the season, their matchup in Palo Alto could see the Pac-12 on College Gameday. While The Farm isn’t the most raucous atmosphere for the show, the matchup between these two Pac-12 heavyweights does more than makeup for the fans (or lack thereof).

Biggest Competition: Iowa vs. Michigan OR Auburn vs. Florida OR Georgia vs. Tennessee OR Purdue vs. Penn State

USC vs. Notre Dame (Week 7)

One of the classic matchups in all of college football, USC vs. Notre Dame is an attractive week 7 matchup the producers of ESPN College GameDay will hope happens. With USC’s roster filled with talent that just needs to see its potential realized, this could be a statement game for USC, especially if they manage tough games against Stanford (Week 2), Utah (Week 4) and Washington (Week 5).

Sports Illustrated Notre Dame USC Cover
USC and Notre Dame have had some classic matchups throughout college football history.

Biggest Competition: Alabama vs. Texas A&M OR Florida vs. LSU

Oregon vs. Washington OR Arizona State vs. Utah (Week 8)

Don’t sleep on Herm Edward’s Arizona State Sun Devils in the Pac-12 South. They’re a talented squad and freshman quarterback Jayden Daniels is ready to turn some heads. A week 8 matchup with Utah is another opportunity for the Utes to be on college football’s national stage, but they’ll face stiff competition from Oregon vs. Washington in the Pac-12 North.

Likely the game of the year in the Pac-12 North, Oregon vs. Washington is the conference’s fiercest rivalry and the unique atmosphere of Husky Stadium is going to be an attractive option for College GameDay.

Biggest Competition: Michigan vs. Penn State

Oregon vs. USC OR Utah vs. Washington (Week 10)

For a few years, a game featuring Oregon vs. USC was an easy feature for the national stage. With both their 2009 and 2010 matchups on College GameDay, when Oregon and USC clash in week 10 of this year, the teams could once again see Los Angeles serve as the backdrop for College GameDay. Known to Oregon fans as the ‘Storm LA’ game, this could be an opportunity for each program to reclaim college football glory and capture national attention in a big way.

Utah vs. Washington is another outstanding option, with Husky Stadium once again proving an attractive option to see the Pac-12 on College GameDay. Both these games could easily be previews of the Pac-12 Conference Championship.

Biggest Competition: Georgia vs. Florida

Week 11 – UCLA vs. Utah

UCLA is another one of the Pac-12 South teams a little under-the-radar this year. With Utah not having any defined competition in the division, this week 11 matchup between UCLA and Utah could be a game that determines the Pac-12 South crown.

Biggest Competition: Georgia vs. Auburn, Michigan State vs. Michigan

Week 12 – Oregon vs. Arizona State

Another potential preview of the Pac-12 Conference Championship, Oregon vs. Arizona State in Tempe could provide an outstanding stage for the Pac-12 on College Gameday. By this time in the year, we’ll know where each team stands and freshman QB Jayden Daniels will have had plenty of time to establish himself. Oregon, meanwhile, will be hoping senior quarterback Justin Herbert is forwarding a Heisman Campaign by leading the Ducks through a difficult road schedule. Their final road test? This big matchup against the Sun Devils.

Biggest Competition: Penn State vs. Ohio State, TCU vs. Oklahoma, Texas A&M vs. Georgia

Is Chris Petersen Forcing the Jacob Eason Storyline?

Jacob Eason Featured Image

One thing was fairly certain heading into the Washington Huskies’ 2019 football season: a quarterback named Jake would lead them. The only question being, which one? Would it be Georgia transfer and Lake Stevens, Washington born Jacob Eason, 2018 backup quarterback Jake Haener or redshirt freshman Jacob Sirmon?

It’s a question many fans and pundits assumed was answered when Eason – a highly-touted recruit from the 2016 class – transferred from Georgia back home to help the Dawgs. Eason, a native of Lake Stevens, Washington, was a five-star recruit out of high school and has the build pro style coaches lust for (6-6, 227 lbs). He started for Georgia as a true freshman and led the Bulldogs to an 8-5 record. In 2017 he compiled 2,430 yards through the air and 16 TDs. But an injury in Georgia’s 2017 opener derailed his progress and allowed Jake Fromm to take command of the Bulldogs.

Seeing no opportunity to surpass Fromm on the depth chart, Eason transferred back to Washington and spent 2018 on the sidelines per NCAA transfer rules. After a battle with Jake Haener for the starting job, he was recently named UW’s starter by head coach Chris Petersen, though the coach was quick to note both quarterbacks would see playing time.

Yet just days after Jacob Eason was announced the starting quarterback, Haener elected to transfer from Washington. Haener’s decision makes him the second quarterback to transfer from Washington this season, as redshirt freshman Colson Yankoff transferred to UCLA in June.

Does this indicate something is amiss in Seattle? Or is this just about players seeking opportunities elsewhere?

The answer is more complicated than you’d expect.

Jacob Eason Washington Huskies Quarterback throws a pass
Jacob Eason will look to silence the doubters this Fall and beyond (Dean Rutz / The Seattle Times)

Transfer Central

Allowing collegiate athletes to transfer between programs is good. It allows young athletes to benefit from opportunities where they have better their chances at playing time. Jacob Eason is a beneficiary of such an ability, and with two season of eligibility remaining, it’s not difficult to understand why Yankoff and Haener transferred. If both remained at Washington they would need to burn two years of eligibility playing backup roles, something their talents were not fit for. Then you must consider the other young quarterbacks on Washington’s roster. Perhaps these up-and-comers, one a true freshman and the other a redshirt, were too much competition for Yankoff and Haener.

It’s not hard to imagine Jacob Sirmon pushing for the backup role, and now it is his to command. Yet, there is the complicated matter that Sirmon also considered transferring. That isn’t indicative of a normal quarterback battle, and had Sirmon transferred the Huskies would be left with just two quarterbacks on the roster, assuming Haener and Yankoff would still depart the program.

Something else has to be going on at Washington, right?

Is Petersen Forcing a Decision?

Jacob Eason has the pedigree to perform well. He has the size and abilities to thrive at quarterback. Questions have surrounded his work ethic, durability and progress (or lack thereof), however. This was highlighted throughout Washington’s spring camp and offseason, with reports emerging about Eason’s less-than-desirable work ethic and inability to stay healthy. Watching tape on Eason shows flaws in his footwork and decision-making abilities. This leads to the question: why Eason?

Washington Huskies helmet
Is all well in the Emerald City? Or is something wrong?

To be fair, fans are removed from the inner-workings of the team. They do not see everything that happens in practice and behind the scenes. Eason’s progress may lead Washington to a couple years of Pac-12 dominance. Yet the fact that Haener battled Eason for so long despite Eason’s physical attributes, and still decided to transfer, should concern Washington fans. In fact, Eason doesn’t have the full support of the Washington faithful. He’ll have to earn it throughout the year.

All this begs the question, is Chris Petersen forcing the decision to play Jacob Eason?

With a coach as respected as Petersen, it’s tough to say yes. But even the best of coaches are not immune to the pull of emotion or a great story. They are still human, and what a story Eason would be.

Just imagine, the local boy who showed promise but got hurt, coming back home to lead the Huskies to college football greatness. It’s an attractive one, and you can’t help but wonder whether Petersen felt pressured to start Eason because Eason chose the University of Washington.

Then, there’s his physical presence. Eason looks the part. He stands as a giant behind his offensive line and can launch the ball with minimal effort. It’s his decision making, football IQ and footwork that are questioned. Jamarcus Russell taught us how dangerous it is to rely on arm talent alone.

Final Thoughts

It’s a tough argument to make, but one not outside the realm of possibility. Haener competing with Eason for so long and still electing to transfer should concern Washington fans. Could it be that Washington’s quarterbacks felt slighted by Petersen or questioned his decision making abilities?

Whatever the reason for Eason’s appointment as Washington’s starter, plenty of questions remain. Most will be answered in the near future. The Huskies open their 2019 season by hosting Eastern Washington, a team they should not overlook. And at a point when the long offseason spurs rumors and speculation day-in and day-out, getting answers from the meaningful game action will be a welcome relief.