Summer

So As you noticed I'm not really good at blogging during the summer and I'm  not sure how much longer this blog had anyway. Sorry if the void of my writing has been hard to handle (I'm sure it hasn't) but I have been busy writing for a few other sites. So add me on Twitter, and I'll post links to article I'm working on this summer. Thanks for the support it has been fun.

At Least He Didn't Say Dipshit

FSU president TK Wetherell is at it again. This time he decided to publicly rip receivers coach Lawrence Dawsey for lack of control. He said that Dawsey needed to go through a little bit of the Leonard Hamiltion school (So he wants him to teach the receivers to only play defense?) of coaching and needed to step it up. Now he does have a point in that somebody has go to take control of the receives, but how is it supposed to be Dawsey. I'm fairly certain Dawsey can't even wear certain shirts before having them approved by Jimbo Fisher. These are Jimbo's guys, Dawsey just works on technique with them after Jimbo tells him who he can sign. The institutional control has to come from either Jimbo or Bobby, Dawsey doesn't have the power to suspend players.

It's funny that when asked about off field incidents TK only focused on the misbehavior's of the players. Should the president of a University that was involved in such a large academic scandal really be talking to anyone about instituional control? Better question is why is the President doing an interview with a sports writer on the athletic department? Didn't he hire an athletic director? No other university president would talk publicly about a position coach like the Al Davis of college football did. Someone seriously needs to take away TK's talking privileges when it comes to sports, let him get his message out through his puppet of an AD Randy Spetman. But hey at least he didn't call Dawsey a dipshit right?

"Nole of the Week

This week Von Wafer takes home the honors. Wafer played for Florida State in 2004 and 2005. With a 4-2 series victory the former 'Nole helped propel the Rockets to the second round of the playoffs to face his old team the Los Angeles Lakers. In those six games Wafer has averaged 17.8 minutes, 9.7 ppg, and shot 45% from three coming off the bench. Wafer played the majority of the series with a sore back, which he doesn't expect to affect him against LA tonight at 10:30.

In Good Hands

According to a Joe Schad Tweet (Twit? I know it's not Twat) Preston Parker is transferring to North Alabama.  Parker was dismissed earlier this year for a DUI after he fell asleep at the McDonalds drive thru.  Despite being kicked off Bobby's team Parker will be able to continue playing for a Bowden.  Bobby's oldest son Terry took over North Alabama in January. Terry hired (Well he didn't really hire him since he is still being paid by FSU)  his youngest  brother and former FSU offensive coordinator Jeff at UNA. Jeff will work with the receivers so he and Parker will be very close. In their last season together at FSU, Parker lead the 'Noles it total yards 1,513 yards in Jeff's system. Parker should dominate the division II competiton and could bring a a D-II national title to North Alabam and salvage his NFL stock and perhaps propel Terry to a major D-I program.                                                                                         

World Cup Games in Doak?

Florida State's Doak Campbell Stadium has confirmed their interest in being a host stadium for the United State's 2018 or 2022 World Cup bid. 

Doak is one of 20 Stadiums included that currently is the primary venue for Division 1 football. 31 of the 32 NFL stadiums have confirmed their interest.

The United States, Australia, England, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico and Russia have formally declared their desire to host to the FIFA World Cup in 2018 or 2022. Netherlands-Belgium and Portugal-Spain have each submitted joint bids for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments, while Qatar and South Korea have applied as candidates to play host only to the tournament in 2022.
FIFA has set May 2010 as the deadline for countries to submit their final paperwork to play host to the FIFA World Cup in 2018 or 2022. FIFA’s 24‑member Executive Committee will study the bids, conduct site visits and name the two hosts for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments in December 2010, completing a 21-month bid and review process.

The reality of Doak becoming a finalist is slim. Tallahassee's airport and hotels have enough trouble handling parent's weekend, let alone an international sporting event. It would be pretty sweet though, to have World Cup games right here in our backyard, until the British begin to riot when England chokes again.

Rough Draft

Well my projection couldn't have been more wrong. Everette wasn't drafted until the 2nd round, but he was that team's first pick. Carolina traded away next year's first round pick to San Fransisco to make sure they got EB with their first pick in the second round (43rd overall). Everette was gracious despite having a bit of a Brady Quinn moment while ESPNs cameras were rolling on him while he watched the draft from Greenville, North Carolina.

Some silver lining for Brown is that he got to go to the hometown team and he gets to stay as DE. He will no longer have to worry about trying to make the transition from 4-3 DE to 3-4 LB. He could possibly get to learn from Julius Peppers, but not likely as it seems that Peppers is New England bound in a trade possibly to recoup the first rounder the Panthers gave up for Brown.

Why Everette fell so far is a bit of mystery. I know his height was a knock but I didn't think it was enough to push him out of the first round. The only thing I can think of is teams were worried about his ability to stop the run. While he is a tremendous pass rusher he does struggle a bit when teams run right at him. I don't think he would have had a lot of success as a LB in a 3-4 defense so thats why anyone with a 3-4 passed on him. Either way Everette is a steal at 43rd.

My other projections were off as well, since no other Seminole was drafted. So far four have singed free agent contracts though.

Graham Gano-Baltimore Ravens

Michael Ray Garvin- Arizona Cardinals

Derek Nicholson- Atlanta Falcons

Tony Carter- Denver Broncos

I'll update those as they sign.

Who Else?

According to Todd McShay's full mock draft, Everrette Brown will be the only Seminole to come off the board... in all seven rounds.  I do think it is a real possibility but I have faith that out of Greg Carr, Tony Carter, Grham Gano, and Antone Smith at least one will be drafted, if not more.

Gano is the second highest rated kicker in the draft, which could mean he goes as early as the third round. Unlike the other three I listed, Gano also has a advantage in that he was invited to the combine to work out for the scouts, which makes him the front runner of this group to be drafted.

Antone Smith had a very impressive Pro Day running a 4.33 forty. The Patriots were impressed enough to pull him aside later on for a private interview. Even with his pro day I think it's more likely that Smith is brought into an NFL camp as a free agent.

Greg Carr in my opinion is the most likely to be drafted even ahead of Gano. Carr's production dropped off drastically with the arrival of Jimbo Fisher who prefers smaller quick receivers for bubble screens. But at 6'6 Carr is a red zone threat that most NFL offensive coordinators would like to have. ESPN the Magazine's Vincent Verhei has a formula that projects receivers production in the NFL (Note: formula was developed off of production by first and second round picks only). It is TD's per game multiplied by Yards per catch to give you a super score. Of all the available receivers in this year's draft Greg Carr (10.5) ranks third in super score behind Michael Crabtree (21.3) and Jarett Dillard (17.4) of Rice. Carr's score is higher than Jermey Maclin of Missouri and Hakeem Nicks of UNC, and Percy Harvin all of whom are projected to go in the first round.

Tony Carter's stock has been on the rise since pro day. The Patriots came to give him a workout in Jacksonville, and the Houston Texans flew him out for a visit. Carter is very talented and has a great football IQ but his size (5'9) will probably prevent a team from using a draft pick on him. But he will certainly be signed as a free agent and once in camp I think he has a legitimate shot at making an NFL roster.

Michael Ray Garvin's future is more likely in track than football. No team will take him as a corner (unless they have not seen any film of him... ever). Garvin could however find a niche as a kick returner. Garvin was second in the nation last year with a return average of 30.1 yards per return. I think Garvin will be singed and not drafted as well. He should be interesting to watch in the pre-season to see how his speed translates to the NFL returning kicks.

Draft Projections

I will break down where and when FSU players are projected to go in this weekends draft. I'll list them as I think that they are expected to come off the board.

First off the board for the Seminoles will obviously be DE Everette Brown. Brown has been projected from as high as 5th overall to 18th in the first round. ESPN's Todd McShay and Mel Kiper Jr's latest mock drafts both have Brown projected 18th to Denver (Surprised they both can actually agree on something). Pat Kirwan of NFL.com has him projected as 13th to the Redskins. I do think that Brown will go higher than 18 but not to the Redskins because I think that Dan Snyder really likes Mark Sanchez and will try to trade up to get him if he doesn't go to Seattle at five. 

I think I am going to go out on a limb and project Brown to go 9th overall to the Packers. Green Bay is in the process of putting in a 3-4 defense and I do think that Brown could be that pass rushing end in that scheme as well as drop into coverage as a linebacker. Either way wherever Brown ends up going, that team will be getting not only a talented DE, but a great guy off the field.

Tomorrow I will project who will be the second 'Nole off the board this weekend. Disagree with my projection? Comment below and we can battle it out McShay and Kiper style.

'Nole of The Week

This week the honor will be shared by former Florida State pitchers Daniel Davidson and Hunter Jones. Both were recently called up to the majors to replace some injured stars.

Davidson was called up to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (they should have stuck to the California Angels) because Vlad Guerrero was put on the DL. He played for FSU in 2002 and 2003 after transferring from Gulf Coast Community College. He made his major league debut last night throwing 1 inning, walking just one batter and not surrendering a hit.

Hunter Jones was called up to replace Dice-K on the Red Sox roster. Jones played for FSU from 2004 to 2006. He had quite the trip trying to make it to Oakland in time to throw an inning of relief for Tim Wakefield on Wednesday. As it turned out Jones was not needed because Wakefield threw a complete game and Jones had to wait until today to make his debut. He pitched a perfect 9th inning in a 12-1 win over the Orioles.

'Nole of The Week

So far so good for the Ryne Sandberg and Tony Thomas Jr combination. Thomas homered twice in a game for the first time in his young minor league career. His big day came against the Marlins AA affiliate, the Jacksonville Suns at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville, a place he knows well. The ACC baseball tournament was held in the Baseball grounds of Jacksonville while Thomas was in school. In 2007 he was named to the All-Tournament team ( He hit more HRs Friday than he did that whole tournament). He finished the series batting a scorching .533 going 8 for 15 with 7 RBI, scoring 6 runs, and had one stolen base.

Rough Day

FSU's Drew Kittleson had a rough first round at the Masters today shooting a 6 over 78. He blames himself for the poor round, but hey like he said earlier in the week, he's playing with house money. He can take solace in that he wasn't the worst of the Amatures, Steve Wilson shot 7 over. Michigan State's Jack Newman lead the way with an even 72, Kittleson tees off tomorrow at 8 A.M. and it could be his last round but you never know he could make a push and make the cut. 

Kittleson had a couple of notable fans in the gallery for him Thursday. Former Seminole and 1988 PGA Championship champion Jeff Sluman (Sluman's caddie Jimmy Walker is caddieing for Kittleson) and All-

American  Corey Simon were on hand to be part of 'Drew's Crew' (I don't know if that's what Kittleson fans call themselves but that's what I imagine they would).

Ever what happened to sensational second baseman Tony Thomas Jr? You know the guy who hit .430 and was ACC player of the year. Turns out he is still swinging away in the Cubs farm system. Now he is learning to play second base in AA Knoxville, from the greatest 2nd baseman in cubs history Ryan Sandberg.

Spring Football is finally over and I think that Mickey Andrews is the only person happier than me. Don't get me wrong I love football, I just think that everyday coverage of spring football is a bit monogamous. Obviously the offense is going to struggle in the spring as it puts in new plays, stats for spring scrimmages are pretty much worthless. I could do with like a weekend scrimmage coverage and a few features but updating how each day of spring football goes seems a bit worthless. 

It could be Corey Surrency's last act as an FSU player since the NCAA seems to be unable to use common sense.

Three lady Seminoles were drafted in today's WNBA Draft.

Kittleson's Dream Week Continues

Drew Kittleson continued living a life most of us will only dream of yesterday by playing a practice round with Phil Mickelson. Kittleson and Mickelson have the same swing coach; Butch Harmon.

Tomorrow will be another special day as he plays a practice round with Adam Scott, who without question has the hottest following of any player on tour, Lefty and Tiger included. Then his dad will be on the bags for him the Par 3 contest which will be on ESPN at 3 p.m. He will be playing with Bubba Watson.

The pairings were announced and he will be playing with Augusta native and 1987 Masters champion (That was before Kittleson was born) Larry Mize and John Merrick who will also be making his first Masters appearance.

With the loss of Owens to a DUI for who knows how long and Surrency to the NCAA, FSU receivers are lacking depth on paper. But in all honesty Traffic School wouldn't have seen a ton of playing  time anyway. Reed is the leader, Easterling will contribute baring any setbacks in his recovery from an achilles injury. Jarmon Fortson is developing into a deep ball threat and Richard Goodman looks ready to contribute. Avis Commack continues to get open, but can't seem to catch it. And of course it looks like FSU will have no choice but to Give my boy Louis Givens a scholly and he brings more speed to an already fast unit. So really as long as Easterling doesn't flirt with anyone's girlfriend and start a brawl this off season they should be ok. 

It's the depth at running back that worries me. Ty Jones looked very good early on but can't seem to hold onto the ball now. Jermaine Thomas is the obvious choice for starter at this point but after him I truly think that it will be Chris Thompson or Lonnie Pryor battling it out for No. 2 on the depth chart.

FSU Selling Grass to Combat Budget Issues

In an effort to help combat a ten percent budget cut coming next year the Seminoles have resorted to dealing grass (Perhaps Preston Parker can refer them a client list). FSU is bringing in some top of line stuff for themselves so they will sell you the old stuff for just $20 a pop. You only have until April 8th to pick it up or Preston Parker will smoke it all. Following a negative weekend all around for FSU, the grass selling might be a positive.

Rod Owens wasn't smoking grass, but he was drinking  a tad too much. Owens was out celebrating the Offense's big triumph in the spring game Saturday night and was arrested for a DUI. Owens has been suspended indefinitely. Perhaps now his nickname will be changed from Old School to Traffic School.

Oh what'd you say? Why would Owens be celebrating the spring game--The offense looked terrible.? The offense fumbled seven times? and lost for the third consecutive year 39-27?...Well it was ugly to watch that's for sure. The offense that dominated all spring long was no where to be found.  Jimbo Fisher will have three more days to get things right before the spring season will conclude on wednesday.

They had a scrimmage today and the offense rebounding nicely, Ty Jones only fumbled once and Ponder found Bert Reed for a 21 yard score. Jarmon Fortson was the star of the day though making a couple nice grabs and throwing a huge block.

Correy Surrency had a nice catch on a slant, but it could be his last action as as a 'Nole. His request for a fourth year of eligibility was denied by the NCAA today. FSU plans to appeal the ruling but things don't look good.

There was some good news for FSU today. Basketball coach Leonard Hamilton flirted with Memphis, but decided to stay in Tallahassee agreeing to a five year extension with Florida State.

FSU golfer Drew Kittleson started his masters week off by playing a practice round with 1998 champion Mark O'Meara. He tees of early tomorrow with Phil Mickelson for another practice round.

FSU Steals One From UF.

In the second game of FSU-UF's three game, three city tour, Florida State came away with the win in a rain shortened contest.

Jack Posey homered in the fifth to put the "Noles ahead 3-2. Freshman ace Sean Gilmartin came in the bottom half of the inning with FSU in a jam. Gilmartin put the flames out with just one pitch. Jason Stidham caught a blooper and tagged second for the inning-ending double play. 

The Game was canceled after the play when there was lighting in the area that prevented the teams from retaking the field.

Since these two teams met on St. Patrick's Day FSU has really turned things around winning eight of their last nine. First they took two of three from Clemson, then they swept FGCU in a mid-week series, and last weekend the pummeled Maryland for three W's, and tonight's game against the Gators.

They will travel to Miami this weekend in what should be a great test of how far this team has truly come after their rocky start.

With Tiger Woods storming back last weekend to win Bay Hill he will most certainly be the heavy favorite in next week's Masters. But could Tiger's competition come from a current Seminole?

The Football team held a half scrimmage on Monday it was all offense... like, I'm not even sure if FSU's defense was there. The offense broke off numerous big plays. Bert Reed and Jermaine Thomas each had matching 64 yard touchdowns, and Louis Givens had another 60 plus TD called back due a holding call on Correy Surrency. You knew it was bad when Christain Ponder broke off a 5o something yard run in a non-contact jersey. I mean all you have to do is get a pinky on the guy and he's down, yet he broke a couple big runs.

The lone brightspot for the defense was Brandon Jenkins who enrolled early to participate this Spring. Jenkins was credited with four sacks on the day.

Don't forget to check out Michael Snaer in tomorrow night's McDonalds All-America game. Snaer is considered by most to be the guard that will fill 3rd team All-American Toney Douglas' scoring role.

Nole of the Week

Well I know Nole of the week is supposed to be for past Seminoles, but this week I have decided to go with a future Seminole. Since I make the rules and you can't really argue with me I figured you wouldn't mind (also I couldn't figure out another reason to post these links). This week's winner is basketball recruit Michael Snaer. Snaer is participating in this week's McDonald's All-American game(his second biggest honor this week right behind being named Nole of the Week). He is blogging about his experience this week and you can read about it here. The Game takes place this Wednesday  at 8 p.m. on ESPN.

Can We Givens The Kid A Scholarship Already!

Louis Givens bursted onto the  scene last fall against Miami with two game saving tackles against Miami's Travis Benjamin on special teams. He had total of 13 tackles and was consistently the first one down the field on kickoffs.

Against Clemson, Givens finally got to show off his offensive talents, taking a reverse 27 yards to the one yard line. Givens was inserted into the lineup because FSU suspended five other wide receivers for an on campus brawl.

He played for Division II Mars Hill in 2006, but decided he wasn't satisfied there so he left school for the chance to walk-on at FSU last spring. Givens impressed in the spring and earned a spot on the team.

Yesterday, Givens had a breakout performance in the scrimmage working with the 2nd team offense. Givens had 3 catches for 84 yards, including a 65 yard touchdown. The pass was thrown behind Givens, but he was able to haul in it anyway and then left the second team defense in his dust.

With the loss of Preston Parker from the team, and Taiwan Easterling for the spring to an achilles injury, Givens has been stepping up big time. Receivers Coach Lawrence Dawsey told Andrew Carter if it were up to him Givens would be on scholarship. 

I think Givens has more than proved that he deserves Preston Parker's scholarship. I think Lil'Boosie (Given's Cousin) sums up Givens perfectly with his song Zoom. Zoom is what Givens does past defenders and on on kickoffs, now FSU you needs to pick up there pace and just give him a scholarship.

Nole of the Week

Matt Diaz is this week's winner. First Diaz beat the Tigers all by himself going 2-for-3 with 3 RBIs. Then he continued his dominance over Johan Santana. Diaz is batting .395 this spring with a team high 12 RBIs. Despite the Braves signing Garret Anderson, Diaz has assured himself some quality at-bats this season.

Diaz is not the only former Nole enjoying spring training success. 

Baseball Team Battles Back

After starting the season by dropping three of their first four ACC games,  No. 24 Florida State bounced back to take two of three from the 19th ranked Clemson Tigers.

FSU fell late last night in the 11th inning behind a little bit of controversy. In the bottom of the 9th it looked like Stuart Tapley had won the game for the Seminoles with a walk off homer, only to have it ruled a foul ball.

After battling back last night to no avail FSU was forced to battle again today trailing 4-3 in the 9th. Jason Stihdam knocked in the tying run with a sacrifice fly on a foul ball. Mike McGee then stepped to the plate with two outs and two runners on. McGee was the starting pitcher for FSU and went 6 innings giving up only 3 runs, he also had already homered earlier in the day. When Mike Martin was asked if he wanted to keep McGee in the game as a DH he just smiled and said yes we do. It proved to be the right call in the ninth as McGee sent one over the right field fence bouncing towards the circus tent.

In Saturday's first scrimmage of the spring the focus seemed to be mainly on the running game with Ty Jones getting the bulk of the carries after Jermaine Thomas had to leave early with a hip pointer. Jones had around 50 yards and one touchdown (stats unofficial just what I could keep myself). Marcus Simms also ran the ball hard and dominated the goal line and red zone drills.

Avis Comack had a nice end around for a 10 yard TD and Jarmon Fortson had the big play of the day with a 41 yard reception.

Women's basketball will look to advance to the sweet 16 for the second time in school history tomorrow night against Arizona State at 7:00 pm.

Dance Off

Just like that it's over. 61-59 Wisconsin sends FSU home from the dance unsatisfied and disappointed.

It was right there for them to take but Wisconsin held FSU to just 21 second half points. Toney Douglas scored 26 points in his final game as a Seminole.

There are plenty of positives to this season though, while the departure of Douglas and Uche Echefu will hurt, the rest of the team should remain intact. FSU's young team gelled extremely well this season and made huge strides. Xavier Gibson is a prime example of that, at the beginning of the season Gibson looked lost and easily pushed around but tonight Gibson showed his improvement contributing six points including a big time put back dunk. This team has a lot of potential and will only get better with the addition of Michael Snaer.

FSU baseball finally broke out of it's ACC play slump with a 5-2 win over Clemson. Freshmen Pitcher Sean Gilmartin(4-1) bounced back nicely from his first loss of the season against UVA to take the win on six ad third with eight strikeouts and just one run.

Stuart Tapley made a couple of nice defensive plays. Rafael Lopez hit his third homerun of the season. Tommy Oravetz continued to climb up the record books for Florida State by getting hit by a pitch for the 33rd time in his career moving him into 5th place.

The football team practice for 24 periods today in Doak. Christian Ponder looked pretty good until things went to 11 on 11. The defense broke up a couple of passes including one by Korey Mangum in the corner to save a TD. Patrick Robinson also had a big hit on a swing pass. The team will be scrimmaging a 12:30 tomorrow in Doak, and they're more than anxious. "

"We have been in shells the last couple days. The offense has been giving us a little lip saying we need to get ready for tomorrow. We will crank it up a little bit tomorrow when we get in full pads. We are just trying to get better every day. Coach Andrews said we need to get 2% better everyday but we need to crank it up to five." Said Linebacker Kendall Smith.

You're Lucky I'm Even Writing This Blog

The Orlando Sentinel wants FSU fans to realize how lucky they are that their paper even still covers that Mickey Mouse operation Bobby Bowden is running in Tallahassee. Dave Whitley admits that the OS does favor its coverage of the Orange and Blue, but not because of a hidden bias he carries for the UF, but because UF generates more revenue for the paper. 

I do agree with the points Whitley made about Florida's football team being more in demand right now because of their recent accomplishments, but to suggest that FSU really deserves no coverage from the OS is a bit far fetched as were a few of his other points about other media outlets.

He claimed that when Bowden leaves practice he is met by only around four media members, well I have never once seen Dave Whitley at an FSU practice, but I have seen at least five or six writers from Warchant and The Osceola combined, two from Noleinsider, two or more from the Tallahassee Democrat, one or two from his own paper, plus TV media and usually about two FSView writers. That's a few more than four.

He also claimed that only two papers are covering tomorrows first round game for the basketball team. Not only is this not true, but it goes against his argument that UF gets more coverage because it's a more exciting program, UF is playing Miami tomorrow in a second round NIT match-up.

Here are the links from the "Two" papers covering tomorrow's game. Tallahassee Democrat, Orlando Sentinel, Miami Herald, St. Pete Times, and the Times-Union. I also know that The Osceola has a writer in the Potato capitol. That is more than two right?

I don't think you guys understand how lucky you are that I write a blog about a team that is in the NCAA tournament and still has top 25 football team, I should be blogging about ridiculous plaques around the country.

Any way back to our normal blog. FSU is finally back in the tourney tomorrow and Toney Douglas is ready to show the rest of the country he's ready. More than his scoring and lock down defense this year, Douglas is most proud of his legacy of a being a leader on a team that made the tournament. In the past few years FSU's teams have been just as talented, but not a close nit a group. It was seemed there were too many Chiefs and not enough Indians, well this season Toney is the Chief and he has some talented Indians playing great basketball. It won't be long until 23 is hanging from the rafters in the Tucker Center.

Despite the number of errors the 'Noles made against Florida Tuesday, Mike Martin will keep the defensive changes he made in place this weekend against Clemson.

Bowden Responds to NCAA

You couldn't blame Bobby for not wanting to say anything until after TK commented on the issue of NCAA sanctions. He was probably fuming at the NCAA for its unprecedented ruling to vacate wins despite coaches not knowing the players were ineligible. 

Well, when Bowden did respond after practice he was annoyed, at the ruling yes, but more so at the fact that the appeal was made out to be all about his pursuit of the all time wins record.

Bowden's statement on the NCAA sanctions:

“My reaction to the NCAA sanctions is that it was too stiff and I think that (FSU President) Dr. Wetherell is right in making that appeal. The thing about it to me, this thing ain’t about me. That is really all I hear from commentators is ‘Bobby Bowden this’ and ‘Bobby Bowden’. It is about all of our coaches and our teams, you know. I think everybody is putting everything on my wins, which is just part of it. The big thing, the whole crux of it to me men, does the punishment fit the crime? Does the punishment fit the crime? I think that’s the thing, that’s the thing we gotta find the answer to right there.”

As usual Bowden takes the classy route. Here is a copy of the letter TK sent to the NCAA. 

TK may be keeping the post office in business all by himself this week. He had to write another letter apologizing to Samford University after referring to them as a Dip Shit school or uhhh.....I mean other institution. Mike Bianchi's bad mouthing of Bowden is what got TK all fired up and ready to throw down in the first place.

Back to the field... Wide Receiver Correy Surrency participated in his first full practice of the spring today. He is eligible to practice while his appeal is being heard. While he said that he wants to come back more than any other option, he did say that a few NFL teams have inquired with Jimbo Fisher about a possible workout if things don't work out.

Ochuko Jenije has been having a great spring so far. In three days of practice he has 3 picks, he is hoping to fill Tony Carter's shoes opposite of Patrick Robinson. 

FSU baseball has had a rough start to this season, losing again in the 9th against Florida. But don't fret help is on the way next year. Things will not get much better as Clemson comes to town this weekend.

Well what do you think of the new layout? Suggestions always welcome!

One is the Loneliest Number

So remember yesterday when I said there was nothing really to report from practice except Ej Manuel hit his hand on a helmet? Well it turns out EJ had a compound dislocation of his index finger on his right hand which he had to have surgery on this morning. Due to the four stitches from the surgery EJ will miss the rest of spring practice.

With D'Vo playing baseball and mulling a possible position change, and now with EJ out that leaves Christian Ponder as the Seminoles lone scholarship QB for the rest of the spring. Walk on QB Corey Eddinger from Wakulla will move up to No. 2 on the depth chart. Eddinger doesn't even have picture listed next to his name on Seminoles.com, but he's listed as 6 ft and 179 pounds (I'm pretty sure the defense is foaming at the mouth after realizing they are going after this guy all spring).

Hopefully Ponder can steer clear of trouble the rest of the way this spring.

FSU officially announced it plans to appeal the NCAA's decision to vacate wins today.

Spring Practice Day 1

Spring football practice began today not a whole lot too report. Ej Manuel left early after banging his hand on a helmet more on that when I find out more. 

Here are the number changes for this season:

Taiwan Easterling changes from 8

2 to 8
Nick Moody changes from 46 to 10
Kendall Smith changes from 41 to 29

Vince Williams changes

 from 46 to 11

Terrance Parks changes from 27 to 4

If still around D'Vo will go from 10 to 6

The highlight of practice came when Coach Bowden was asked if he filled out a March Madness bracket to which he responded with something along the lines of 'I would have to ask Rick Neuheisel how to do that.' Classic Bobby. He said he doesn't plan to comment on vacating wins until after TK Wetherell's press conference tomorrow.

Before Spring practice today was FSU's pro day. Most of the focus was on projected top five pick Everette Brown who was very impressive. 

A few former players returned to work out including DeCody Fagg and Xavier Lee. Lee was working out as a wide receiver which was unique to see because he was catching passes from Drew Weatherford. Lee wasn't overly impressive physically but he showed above average hands. He said that as of now he has a mini camp invite with Tampa Bay.

Weatherford looked very sharp, as did Tony Carter who looks to have beefed up, and Antone Smith who ran an unofficial 4.26 (second fastest of the day behind Michael Ray Garvin's 4.22).

Todderick Verdell was dressed like a traffic cop. Which probably made Preston Parker slightly nervous as he was on hand to take in the action and watch his former teammates. He said he didn't know where he would transfer to next season yet.

One of the more interesting things I noticed was something that I had never really thought about. It wasn't just NFL scouts there watching there were at least three Canadian Football League scouts there. While many of the players working out have no shot at making an NFL roster the CFL is a very real possibility. Xavier Lee said that some CFL teams have even talked to him about possibly playing QB.

Couch Potato

Are you ready to do nothing but sit on your couch and watch basketball?, well I am. (like that's what I haven't been doing since Thursday, somewhere my girlfriend just punched a stranger after reading the beginning of this post). And for the first time in ten years Florida State is involved in the Big Dance.

Despite losing to Duke in the ACC championship game, FSU (25-9) is a five seed and will take on 12 seed Wisconsin (19-12) at around 10 in Boise, Idaho Friday night. Good news is that FSU has not lost consecutive games this season, you can blame me if I jinx them and mess up your bracket. Last time FSU played in Boise it defeated Montana and Georgetown to reach the sweet 16 in 1992.

While Toney Douglas and FSU are happy to be in the tournament I can't help but think how much it would suck to go to Boise. So i did some research on what to expect from the potato state's capitol.

The weather isn't too bad it's supposed to be 62 with a low 43. It is the home to Jake 'The Snake' Plummer former NFL QB. Unfortunately though, the basketball court is not Blue like the the school's football field. I think that it should be mandated that court is completely blue or maybe they could use a blue basketball or something to resemble the Smurf Turf.

Don't get too caught up in the hoop mania, Seminole fan's first true love is back in action tomorrow for the first day of spring practice. Hopefully the coaches put out plenty of trash cans so the boys can run the spring break out of themselves.

Knockout Punch

Finally! FSU snapped a ten game losing streak to UNC today in the Georgia Dome with a 73-70 win over the top ranked Tar Heels. For the first time in school history FSU will advance to the ACC Championship game, they will take on Duke tomorrow at 1 p.m.

Last time these two teams met UNC was bailed out by a late Derwin Kitchen turnover and a Ty Lawson miracle shot. This time though Lawson was out with an injury and Kitchen was clutch down the stretch making two free throws to put FSU up three with 15.7 seconds left. 

One day after hitting the game winner against Georgia Tech Kitchen put on quite the encore performance scoring 11 points with nine rebounds, six assists, and three steals.

In the same building that his brother plays for the Dirty Birds, Toney Douglas continued to scorch the ACC this time scoring 27 points. 

Despite the loss UNC will still more than likely be a number one seed, but with a win tomorrow FSU could improve to a four seed and be playing in Miami instead of Boise in the first round of the NCAA tournament (who would have thought that FSU fans would be arguing for a higher seed, not just to get in when the season began?).

By knocking off North Carolina on the conference's biggest stage Leonard Hamilton and the 'Noles made a statement about the program, one that they would like Duke to hear as well tomorrow afternoon.

Vacation

No updates until Friday probably, I will be cruising to the Bahamas this week. I'll leave you with this video of what I'll be doing to enjoy while I'm gone.

Judgement Day

The NCAA finally came out with their results from the investigation on FSU. Essentially through all the legal jargon the document stated that, FSU is placed on four years probation and must vacate any wins in any sport that those players participated in, no matter what their role was, in the outcome of the game, if they played the game no longer counts.

Which could result in a total of 14 wins being taken away from Bobby Bowden which would make it almost impossible for him to catch Paterno.

It also will more than likely result in the loss of the 2007 National Track and Field Championship.

FSU will also see reduced scholarships in ten different sports as follows.

Football: Limit to 83 scholarships in 08-09, 82 in 09-10, and 84 in 2010-11. For the 08-09 self-imposed two grant reductions from the maximum allowed and will self-impose three reductions fro 09-10. The committee imposed and additional reduction of one grant in 2010-11.

Mens Basketball: Limit to 12 total grants in 08-09 and 12 in either 09-10 or 2010-11 (FSU's choice which year to impose). The maximum allowed under NCAA is 13.

Women's Basketball: Limit to 13 grants in 08-09 and 12 in either 09-10 or 2010-11. The maximum allowed is 13.

Baseball: Limit to 11.33 grants in 08-09. Maximum is 11.7.

Men's Swimming: Limit to 9.1 grants in 08-09. Maximum is 9.9

Women's Swimming: Limit to 12.8 grants in 08-09. The committee imposed an additional limitation to 12 grants to be imposed in either the 09-10 or 2010-11. Max is 14.

Men's Track and Field: Limit to 12.1 scholarships in 08-09 maximum is 12.6

Women's Track and Field: Limit to 17.32 grants in 08-09, Max is 18.

Softball: Limit to 11 in 08-09 and 11.95 in 09-10. Max is 12

Men's Golf: Limit to 4.36 grant in 08-09. Max is 4.5

Reductions from 08-09 were part of self imposed penalties after FSU put themselves on two years probation. Grant =scholarships.

FSU has responded and said they will seek clarification on vacating wins and could appeal due to the fact that they didn't knowingly use ineligible players so thing long saga may not be over after all.

FSU baseball Struggling

For the first time since 2005 FSU has lost three straight non-conference games. Last night for the first time ever the Seminoles lost to UNF. That coming the night after dropping two straight on the road to JU and Auburn.

Other than freshman Sean Gilmartin, FSU starting pitching has been very unimpressive. Austin Wood lasted only two innings last night. Brian Busch continued to impress only giving up two hits and one run in five plus innings while throwing 93 pitches.

FSU will have to figure it out quickly as conference play begins this weekend against Boston College.

FSU Women's basketball begins their quest for an ACC title tomorrow night against the winner of tonight's Boston College-Miami game.

Instead of whining about officiating after the Duke loss the Men have decided to take the positives from that game and turn them into confidence boosters. FSU is currently ranked 17th in the RPI. Right now ESPN has them projected as a 6 seed in the Midwest region playing their first game in Miami agasint Steph Curry and Davidson. Playing their first tournament game in ten years in Miami would be a huge boost to the fan base that is still getting used to the idea that FSU can compete in the ACC.

Mientkiewicz 'Nole of This Week

It's not usually a good thing when a major league veteran like Mientkiewicz is only tendered a minor league deal this late in their career but I thought with so much negativity surrounding the sport I thought it appropriate to highlight a guy never linked to the steroid scandal most have been. Mientkiewicz has agreed to a minor league deal with the Dodgers. It may be tough for him to make the roster that has a lot of infielders already, but Torre said he loves Mientkiwicz's versatility.

Snow and Bo O'Dell Ruin the Rest of the Auburn Series

After winning the first two games of the series played in Tallahassee the Seminoles dropped their first game of the season last night 10-9 in Auburn.

Bo O'Dell was forced into action after starting pitcher John Gast suffered a sprained ankle. O'Dell pitched two and a third innings and gave up seven runs (Five earned) on six hits to earn the loss.

Today's game was cancelled due to three to four inches of snow on the ground.

Congrats to the Lady Noles on their first ever regular season ACC title.

Here are some more links about yesterday's win over Clemson that weren't posted when I did my blog.  You can tell that the SEC sucks at basketball because Gene Frentte and Mike Bianchi were both in attendance yesterday and they both usually stick to covering UF, as does the Times-Union in general though.

Bianchi

Frenette

Put on Your Dancing Shoes Seminoles

While nothing is official just yet and I'm sure the NCAA committee will look for a reason, any reason to keep FSU out, it would appear that the moons have aligned and FSU is headed back to the tournament for the first time since 1998. FSU defeated Clemson 73-66 clinching just it's second winning ACC record in 16 seasons.

Deja Vu set in for a moment towards the end of the second half as Clemson closed and 18 point FSU lead to three.

Once again Toney Douglas was the star for FSU with 23 points and a crucial block at the end of the game as Derwin Kitchen turned it over with 22 seconds left and a four point lead.

Despite the late tournament Kitchen was impressive, he played over 30 minutes in his second consecutive game and extended his double figures scoring streak to four games.

Chris Singleton also scored double figures for the first time in what seems like an eternity. With Uche Echefu limited in his minutes due a back injury Ryan Reid had an impressive game adding eight points and five rebounds from the bench, although I wish he would shoot less.

FSU now travels to Duke next weekend without the weight of a two game losing streak and the feeling that they need one more upset to be considered tournament worthy.

There was a player on Clemson's bench wearing Rec Specs and unfortunately it wasn't Horace Grant's Nephew.

Ron King's jersey was retired at halftime and dude looked like a Pimp!

FSU baseball faces first test.

This weekend's series should allow FSU fans to gauge where this young team is at. While they are ranked 5th in the  country there are still some questions about how many runs this offense will be able to put up. Also how long can FSU expect these young pitchers to dominate and not feel the pressure?

The first two games of the series will be played Thursday and Friday in Tallahassee and Saturday and Sunday's games will be played at Auburn.

The Seminoles are trying to replace Buster Posey with a variety of players. Rafael Lopez hopes to replace him behind the plate defensivley. In the first series he threw out three baserunners and tagged out another at the plate after he tried to score on a snap throw to first from Lopez.

Geoff Parker takes the mound for the 'Noles tonight at 6.

I haven't had a chance to watch Deion's new show Prime U yet due to a week full of tests but I did DVR so I'll let you know how it is when I get a chance to check it out later this weekend.

"Nole of the Week

This week's winner is none other than Prime Time himself. It's a bit of a slow week with sports I had to go with the NFL Networks TV personality who has a new show premiering on wedensday.

The description on the networks website for wednesday's show reads this:

Chronicles the journey of NFL hopefuls Darius Butler (Connecticut), Emmanuel Cook (South Carolina), Lendy Holmes (Oklahoma), Captain Munnerlyn (South Carolina), and Lyndell Sargeant (Penn State) as they train under Deion Sanders' tutelage for the NFL Scouting Combine

Anytime there is more Deion on the Tube, I'm a happy man. For more Neon Deion check out this video on his time at FSU.

Great Weekend for the 'Noles

Well you might be tired of reading it, I know I'm tired of writing it but Toney Doulgas carried the 'Noles to another victory last night against Virginia Tech. Finally they broke threw with an end game situation. 

Douglas, who dribbled around for what felt like an enterity at the end of the UNC game didn't wait this time, he took it to the hole and hit a floater to give FSU a two-point lead with 6.2 seconds left. Virginia Tech missed a good look at the end to become the latest guests on the Toney Douglas show. Douglas finshed the game with 22 points

Derwin Kitchen continued his impressive play scoring 19 points. He credits his play as of late to the extra conditioning he has been doing in the mornings before class and after practice.

Echefu also scored in double figures for the 4th straight game with 12 points.

FSU improves to 21-6 overall and 8-4 in ACC, good for 2nd overall in the conference (shouldn't the number two team in the ACC be in the top 25?).

The Baseball team also got off to a great start on the season, sweeping Hofstra in a four game series.

A Few quick observations, Rafael Lopez has emerged as the team's starting catcher and he has a cannon. Mike McGee looks to put up big offensive numbers this year, and he wasn't too bad on the mound today getting the W. Freshman pitcher Sean Gilmartin looked like the starting pitcher that FSU always seems to be lacking come tournament time.

The Woman's hoops team continues to rack up the victories in hopes of perhaps winning the ACC title. If they win the remaining 3 games of the season they will win the school's first ever regular season ACC basketball title.

Threat Eliminated

It's Toney Douglas' world and the ACC is just living in it. Douglas scored 24 points tonight extending his streak of scoring in double figures to 20 games in a 80-67 victory over rival Miami.

He also was part of a defensive rotation that finally put an end to Jack McClinton's streak of scoring 30 plus. McClinton had scored 30 plus in three straight games, and he didn't do it against the likes of Virginia or NC State, no he did it against the big boys. He scored 32 against Wake, 34 against the Dukies, and 35 on the Tar Heels. FSU face guarded him much of the game and he struggled to get open looks. The Seminoles rotated Douglas, Jordan DeMercey, and Devidas Dulkys on McClinton with Derwin Kitchen also covering him at times. 

"They face guarded the whole time" McClinton said after the game, he also said it was the best a team has done defensively on him all season.

Miami was in it until FSU went on a 10-3 run which was exclimated by an electric dunk by DeMercey which should be on SC's top 10 tonight.

It was the sixth time this season that Florida State was able to bounce back from a loss and avoid creating a losing streak. It was the 'Noles 20th win this season and while it is impressive history has shown that you can't leave it up to the committee when it comes to Florida State.

"We need 22 wins before I think we can be considered a lock" Toney Douglas said.

They travel to Blacksburg, VA. on Sunday to take on Virginia Tech at 8:00p.m.

Uh-oh another story involving FSU and McDonalds. Don't worry though this one doesn't involve anyone falling asleep while waiting for their Big Mac. FSU commit Michael Snaer has been named to the 2009 McDonald's All-American team. Snaer is a 6-4 shooting guard who could help fill the void that will be left by Toney Douglas after this season. Rivals.com rates Snaer the 11th best player in the country.

Douglas vs. McClinton

Toney Douglas and Jack McClinton not only will be competing against each other tomorrow night on the court, but they're also both competing for ACC player of the year honors.

Both senior guards are tied for second in the league in scoring average at 20.3 points a game behind Tyler Hansbrough who averages 21.1. 

McClinton scored 35 points sunday against UNC. The third straight game in which he has dropped more than 30 on an opponent. He leads the league in made 3-points shots(79) 3-pt fg percentage (.479). In their first match-up this season McClinton dropped 28 on the 'Noles, the highest total for an opposing player this season in their 75-69 win. The victory snapped a five game losing streak to FSU.

ouglas dropped 30 on the "Canes in the first go round (that's two more that McClinton ACC voters).  Doulgas has an advantage over McClinton in that FSU is 19-6 and could essentially clinch a berth in the tournament if they can win at least 3 of their remaining 6 games. He also is a tremendous defender, he has the second most steals in the ACC with 51 behind just Ty Lawson. He also averages the 3rd most minutes a game in the conference, FSU really seems to struggle when their leader is not on the floor. 

My vote would be for Douglas but I might be just a tiny bit biased. As I am writing this I'm watching Clemson-Maryland and Mike Patrick just agreed with me that it should be Douglas for POY over McClinton, America chose McClinton over Hansbrough. Unfortunately the tobacco road bias will kick in when its time to vote and Gerald Henderson of Duke or Ty Lawson or Hansbrough from UNC will likely walk away the award.

It should be a great match-up to watch tomorrow and the first 500 fans to the game will recieve rally towels. I predict 30 for Toney, and 24 for McClinton.

Seminole of the Week

In an effort to perhaps to make my content a little more regular each monday I will name an ex-Seminole of the week.

This week I have chosen  Al Thornton who played in All-Star weekend's Rookie-Sophomore challenge. Thornton scored 10 points in just 22 minutes, he also had two rebounds and two assists. Thornton was snubbed from last year's game but this year the wrong was righted. 

Thornton hopes to return to All-Star weekend next year, but it would have to be as a regular All-Star sine it will be his 3rd year in the league.

Perhaps he will be joined that weekend by former teamamte Toney Douglas who would be hopefully be a rookie in the league and be asked to participate in the rookie-sophomore challenge.

P.S. Myron Rolle is smart (which is good because he kind of sucks at football, there I said it) But he's not the only T.J. Henderson on the team he was joined by teammates Christian Ponder (Who like Rolle graduated in just 2 1/2 years and is currently working on his MBA), Andrew Datko, and Kendrick Stewart.

Labor Day Plans: BBQ and the 'Canes

Here it is the long awaited release of 34th FSU football schedule in the Bowden Era:

Date                 Opponent                           Location   

Sept. 7              Miami                                  Tallahassee, FL

Sept. 12            Jacksonville State                 Tallahassee, FL

Sept. 19            BYU                                    Provo, UT

Sept. 26            USF                                     Tallahassee, FL

Oct. 3                Boston College                     Chestnut Hill, MA

Oct. 10              Georgia Tech                       Tallahassee, FL

Oct. 17              OPEN

Oct. 22              North Carolina (Thurs)          Chapel Hill, NC

Oct. 31              NC State                             Tallahassee, FL

Nov. 7               Clemson                              Clemson, SC

Nov. 14             Wake Forest                        Winston-Salem, NC

Nov. 21             Maryland                             Tallahassee, FL

Nov. 28             Florida                                 Gainesville, FL

 

FSU has won the last two games against Miami played on Labor Day, but lost two years ago when they played Clemson.

This schedule is extremely tough with the only real "off"  game coming against Jacksonville State who is still dangerous with former LSU quarterback and 2007 SEC Championship MVP Ryan Perrilloux. The 'Noles trip to BYU will be no walk in the park.  And you don't think USF would love to come up to Tallahassee and earn some respect from their in-state peers.

Thursdays nights game against North Carolina on the road will be an extremely tough test with Butch Davis recruiting more talent than ever at UNC. He brought in the eighth ranked class according to Rivals.

How sweet would it be if FSU was able to knock off the Gators in the Swamp, leaving Tebow with a home loss in his final game in Gainesville.