CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER - Special Bowl Edition 2010-2011

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

Like Fine Wine

This issue doesn't have an expiration date. It's aged over the summer and fall and is now ready to be uncorked for a select few readers. Enjoy and Happy New Year!

Cargo Bike

"It fit in there this morning!" The bicycle wasn't cooperating as our hero attempted to put it back into the hatchback. A couple walked by and laughed at the puzzled cyclist trying to get the cargo back into the vehicle. "Quite a puzzle that's been created here." After about 15 minutes of angling, hoisting and bewilderment, logic took hold. There wasn't as much air in the tires this morning when the bike was loaded.

After letting some air out of the front tire and removing the entire front wheel for good measure, the bicycle was securely placed in the cargo bay. So, after bicycling, if the infernal machine refuses to cooperate, remember to let a little air out of the tires and see if that helps. This has been a public service announcement of the Crimson Pigskin e-Letter.

The R Word

Back in February, it was announced Southern Cal had extended a football scholarship offer to a 13-year old quarterback named David Sills. The youngster is a very talented player and has developed many skills which will help him be a successful player. FoxSports.com noted his personal coach has stated he's "never seen anyone his age do what he has been able to do".

Regardless of the young man's ability, poaching stars from junior high has its pitfalls. How many injury free games does Sills have to play before he ever gets on campus at USC? Does a program with the talent level of SC's need to dip below high school for athletes? How long will the media leave former Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin alone about this, taking into account he bolted from Knoxville after one year? Maybe this will divert sports fan attention from the Tangerine mob and place it squarely on a lad who can "break down NFL game film". Sills may not even want to play football any more by the time he's out of prep school.

In any event, someone at USC needs to invoke the 'R' word by taking Responsibility and telling the football program to wait until young master Sills is old enough to sign a letter of intent without breaking every NCAA rule known to man and let the kid complete puberty before he has to face a collegiate defensive line. As for the rest of the 13-year old phenoms out there,…they need to remain on window Sills until they're ready for college athletics too.

Sooner Breeze

For all the publicity surrounding Oklahoma's inability to win a bowl game, until December 31st, 2009 versus Stanford at the Sun Bowl, there was quite a draft in the room on April 19th, when three of the top five picks in last month's NFL draft were from OU. This was the first time in university history or NFL history for that matter this had happened.
As if Coach Bob Stoops needs any more recruiting tools to lure the best players in America to Norman, Oklahoma to attend college. It is a fairly safe assumption none of the three top five draft picks were promised spots on the team when they were thirteen. Incidentally, the Sooner breeze blowing across the NFL stage was on the anniversary of the Oklahoma Land Run.

Thunderous Run

The Oklahoma City Thunder made the NBA playoffs for the first time in franchise history which spans back all of two seasons. Thunder forward Kevin Durant scored more points than anyone in the NBA on the way to a best of seven series against the Los Angeles Lakers. A team this young making the playoffs is quite an accomplishment.

The Lakers won the first two games of the series, before the Thunder was able to win two games in Oklahoma City. Tied at two games to two, there was some hope Rumble T. Bison and the OKC youth could win game 5 in Los Angeles. The Lakers rose to the occasion and took a 3-2 series lead before returning to Oklahoma City for game 6 which the Lakers won by only one point.

What a year for a young team which expected to have Durant among others back this year, despite Durant's looming free agency, a contract was ironed out over the summer and since returning from playing overseas, Durant has continued to shine along with point guard Russell Westbrooke. So far, the Thunder is off to a 21-10 start this season. Oklahoma City hosts the Dallas Mavericks tonight at Oklahoma City Arena.

REMEMBER THE ALAMO!

Does anyone know if there is a Goliad, Arizona? The Oklahoma State Cowboys earned their way to the Alamo Bowl, sponsored by Valero (You know, those teal and yellow gas stations?) in San Antonio, Texas. The game, versus the Arizona Wildcats, kicks off Wednesday night at 8pm CST. For more information and a look at a very nice website, check out www.AlamoBowl.com. The game will be indoors. Weather will not be a factor.

Goliad was a town in the Republic of Texas that was routed by the Mexican Army, led by the ever-inhospitable General Santa Anna. This incident followed the unfortunate series of events at a mission called The Alamo. When first ordered to execute all those captured at Goliad, the Mexican Commander declined to do so but pressure from Santa Anna won out and Goliad became another grizzly incident which gave Texans another rallying cry as they eventually won their independence from Mexico.

Nowadays, The Alamo, a monument to bravery and the undying spirit of Texas is surrounded by parking lots and faces storefronts riddled with stairwells leading to the famed Riverwalk below. Since Christmas, Oklahoma State and Arizona football fans have been perusing the sights and sounds of San Antonio amid daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-50's to the low 70's.

This brings a close to the Texas History lesson and opens the game up to some prognostication. As Foxsports.com has noted, Mike Gundy and Mike Stoops, head coaches for Oklahoma State and Arizona respectively each have brothers on the University of Oklahoma coaching staff. Oklahoma was the last team to defeat OSU and has not played Arizona for a number of years.

Do you think Bob Stoops or Cale Gundy was in the more sharing mood this holiday? Probably Bobby. Arizona is more motivated to win and has seen plenty of game footage of a team stopping the OSU offensive onslaught (NU and OU). 'Zona 27, OSU 24.

FIESTA!

After defeating Nebraska in the Big 12 Conference title game, first Saturday in December, Oklahoma was invited to play the Big East Conference champ Connecticut in the Fiesta Bowl. Even though the desert has been anything but good to the Sooners, prevailing thought across college footballdom is OU is a can't lose team New Year's Day at 7pm CST.

Entering yet another New Year's bowl game after what many Sooner fans considered a so-so 10-2 season featuring a win over Texas in October (Texas won't be attending a bowl this winter due to their win-loss record. They may soon have a television network but if a university has a t.v. network and doesn't make it to a bowl game, will there be anyone watching it?).

The only way Oklahoma loses this game is if the bus breaks down and they are more than 3 hours from the stadium. UCONN will have all the motivation to win and Oklahoma will start flat but just like they played better all season, the team will improve throughout the game and once they settle in, they'll beat the Huskies. OU 45, UCONN 20.

This has been a limited circulation exclusive CPeL. Enjoy and Happy New Year to all!

Carlos

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

crim

____________________________________________________________
Obama Urges Homeowners to Refinance
If you owe under $729k you probably qualify for Obama's Refi Program
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3131/4d191026360159bc668st01vuc

The Crimson Pigskin e-Letter: Vol 12, Issue 8

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

A WORD OF WELCOME

For many families, the word busy doesn't begin to describe the weeks between the middle of November and the beginning of January. No matter how busy it gets this year, make sure to carve out some time to enjoy the season with family and friends. If you get a chance to take in some college football along the way,…BONUS! Welcome to a wonderful time of year and may it be celebrated far and wide all year long. Merry Christmas to all,…And to all a good night!

JOE T's

A sprawling eatery on the south end of the Fort Worth, Texas Stockyards is serving the best Mexican food this side of the Rio Grande. Family owned Joe T. Garcia's authentic south of the border delights and delectable short menu are legendary in Fort Worth. Every item, sides included, has its own distinctive and glaringly hand-crafted flavor. A stop at Joe T's like tasting art on a plate.

Homemade salsa, corn and flour tortillas, enchiladas and sweet marinated fajita protein are highlights of the fare available in a somewhat noisy but charming atmosphere. Courtyard dining areas are open in warm weather for those who enjoy dining al fresco. Pricing is middle of the road so take the whole family. It's an experience not soon forgotten and definitely a repeat visit destination.

HOT ROD GRILLING

It's off season for backyard chefs in the USA, particularly along the eastern seaboard of the US this weekend where snow is drifting and visions of sugar plums are dancing in the heads of children and the young at heart. Time to look ahead to springtime and how outdoor cuisine, is to be prepared when the bluebird is on our collective shoulder again. Here's a high octane way to grill for the motor enthusiast.

According to the August 2009 issue of Popular Science magazine, Trent Watley had reached an impasse with his grilling equipment. He had replaced many spare parts and wanted to resolve the problem long term. What was needed was an apparatus made of material which could withstand and contain the heat of burning coals while being large enough to house a cooking surface. It also had to close to keep the heat and smoke inside, giving his food that rustic open air cooked flavor. Watley settled on a V8 engine.

First he gutted the engine with a plasma cutter, a process which took 15 hours. He then had it cleaned in a machine shop. Popular Science goes on to report he made the grate from stainless steel. The highly combustible fuel was removed from the carburetor assembly for obvious reasons. Hinges were welded on the side of the motor so the lid could be opened and Watley was looking at his prototype cooker made from a V8 (not to be confused with the veggie drink).

The motor/grill was welded to a metal stand which also holds the propane canister. Flames were painted on the gas tank for that hot rod effect. The end result of Watley's labor was one shell of an engine. His friends liked them so much he built more and now sells them at: www.v8-grill.com. Bon appetite!

THE CRIMSON REEL

New in theaters is the Michael Oher story. It arrives in the form of a football tear-jerker entitled The Blind Side. This film parades through a virtual who's who of the Southeastern Conference (the estute sports fan will find the timing of the movie interesting in regard to SEC coaching staffs) and tells the incredible tale of how Oher was taken in by a Memphis, Tennessee family. He was taught how to become a good student and to turn his raw athletic ability into a career in the National Football League. Against incredible odds, Oher blocks his way into the hearts of movie goers of all ages.

Headliners Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw don't hurt the movie's charm either. Get out there and see it at a matinee this winter or when it comes out on video for certain. This show is on the CPeL's A list.

SPORTS CUSTER

Roger M. Williams writes in a September 2009 Smithsonian magazine article entitled Last Fan Standing:

"Early in this past season's National Hockey League playoffs, I turned on the telecast of the Washington Capitals-New York Rangers game. I have lived in Washington for the past 25 years, but I was rooting for the Rangers. Growing up they were [my] hockey team. To this day, whenever and whomever they play, I want them to win."

Williams goes on to state he has also been a fan of other New York City teams including the Yankees, Giants and Knicks, although he has lived in a number of major league sports cities over the years. The sports teams of his childhood have always held his allegiance.

His loyalty has survived not being able to regularly see his teams from the NYC market on the tele (British for television). Additionally his diehard Giants fanaticism has found him "on Autumn Sundays,… [joining] a small, furtive group [of Giants' fans] in a dingy sports bar," with no sound on the broadcast because the Giants' fans are far outnumbered by Redskins fans.

A couple of his friends have switched fandom as they've moved from city to city "confusing transitory pleasure with true love" but Williams remains true. The George Custer of sports fans aka The Last Fan Standing concludes: [My grave marker shall therefore bear a list of my teams and this epitaph: "In victory or defeat, in places near or far, forever true."] Now that's a sports fan.

LOVING CONGRATULATIONS!

TO: Don & Marcia on your Wedding Day

Best wishes and many years of happiness together. You are class personified. Any person counted as your friend is most fortunate. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Congratulations from CPeL.

FALLING BACK

Maybe it was the time change. Maybe it was the Holidays. Maybe it was [fill in the blank] but there hasn't been a CPeL on the presses for a few weeks. Apologies all around again and as always, you're welcome to a full refund for your missed issues. CPeL,…the price is always right.

TULSA

Since the last issue, Tulsa worked its way out of bowl contention but ended the season on a winning note. The fifth win of the season was a 33-30 overtime edging of Memphis at Chapman Stadium in Tulsa. The 2009 Golden Hurricane concluded the season with 7 losses to go with the 5 wins.

CPeL received word this week a star wide-receiver recruit at Oklahoma wants to transfer to Tulsa. That's good news for the TU receiving corps. A good spring of training and Tulsa will be back in form this fall presenting that exciting Golden Hurricane brand of football.

ARKANSAS

Arkansas finished with a 7-5 record against LSU in overtime loss, 33-30. Despite a losing a tough game against a divisional rival, the Razorbacks made it to the postseason, by being invited to the Liberty Bowl. There they will face Coach Skip Holtz and the East Carolina Pirates.

Hog faithful and coach Bobby Petrino are still searching for that winning formula which will take them to the top of the SEC Western Divison but after the last few years, Liberty is sweeter than ever. The game is to be played on January 2, 2010 at 4:30pm CST. U of A 34, East Carolina 21.

TENNESSEE

Tennessee is bowl-bound but with some complications. Alleged recruiting violations, involving hostesses (not the tasty pastries on the bread aisle at the local grocer's) hover over Knoxville like the lights over Neyland Cathedral. They're constant factors to deal with at the high-profile institution and sometimes they need to be attended to.

Overall, the Volunteers improved and achieved yet another 7-5 mark, which placed them in the Chick-fil-A Bowl in Atlanta, Georgia. UT's opponent in the game will be Virginia Tech. Kick-off is scheduled for New Year's Eve at 6:30pm CST. This should be a good match-up and will provide Tennessee with a much needed extra month of practice as they continue the climb back to elite status in the SEC.

OKLAHOMA STATE

Oklahoma State had a date with BCS destiny and it was nipped in fall bloom over Thanksgiving. The consolation prize is a trip to Dallas, Texas for the Cotton Bowl Classic against Ole Miss. The Rebels are coached by former Arkansas coach Houston Nutt. Nutt has experienced a good deal of success in Oxford (no, not in England). The lead Reb is always positive and gets the most out of his players.

It's a good January 2nd bowl game for the Pokes after a list of lesser bowls in previous years. Who needs all that warm sun in Tempe anyway? Who needs any awkward Burlington Coat Factory moments? Who needs to travel that far to tank a bowl game?

Cowboy fans can visit the 6th Floor Library, explore the grassy knoll for Pete's six-shooter, shop til they drop at Grapevine Mills and enjoy the indoor comfort of Jerry's World at game time. Since the game is being played in Arlington at Dallas Cowboy Stadium and not at the Cotton Bowl, is it still the Cotton Bowl? Those silly Texans.

Dallas PD gets a break as Oklahoma State fans leave Dallas better than they found it. Kick-off is at 1pm CST. UM 29, OSU 24.

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma finished 7-5 with a bittersweet victory over Oklahoma State. The Sooner defense shut the Cowboys out 27-0. OU's offense remains non-existent as Oklahoma faces a solid Stanford Cardinal team in the Brut Sun Bowl. Brut will make sure that no matter how bad the OU offense is they will still smell great. . This no-stink guarantee is more than most teams have this winter. Hopefully the Oklahoma end zone will get more use than the men's room at Bed Bath and Beyond this outing.

On the other side of the football, the Cardinal hasn't been this dangerous since The Three Musketeers. Stanford has a Heisman Trophy candidate at running back but he will be running into the strength of the Oklahoma defense which has historically stopped the run well against any competition. Fans can't miss Toby Gerhart. He will be the guy wearing number 5 running into the OU defensive line repeatedly as he has 1736 rushing yards to show for that kind of activity against PAC-10 competition.

Many believed the Sooner team should have voted not to attend a bowl after a nearly .500 year but in this age of TV contracts and big bucks for bowls, Oklahoma is headed to El Paso, Texas on December 31st. Kick-off is at 1pm CST. The OU cheer squad and the owner of the restaurant the Sooners eat at will be the most motivated people in west Texas during this game.

Bad press for losing bowl games or not, all OU got out of this was a few TV shekels and the month of December to figure out which direction the goal line is. Stanford has a month to prepare and everyone else has stopped OU so why not the smart guys from Palo Alto? Stanford 13, OU 2.

THE PERCENTAGES

All those eons ago when the last picks were made, CPeL was running at
At 69% on the year. After posting 4-1 last issue, that brings the season total to 22-9. That's 70% for all those diehard fans of teams not appearing in bowls this year.

Thanks for reading. Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Carlos
www.crimsonpigskin.com

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

____________________________________________________________
Criminal Lawyer
Criminal Lawyers - Click here.
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2131/c?cp=q7aduShzj9wE4Wb_y717lwAAJz3lxC3Y_yhwMcAbfftr15aWAAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAiFgAAAAA=

The Crimson Pigskin e-Letter: Vol 12, Issue 7

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

THAT WAS IT!

I never thought this day would come in my lifetime,… -Stevie Wonder

LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 16, 2040
One hundred twenty thousand of what seemed like representatives from the entire world arrived at the packed LA Coliseum to bid farewell to the most beloved performer known to the music industry. Some had camped out until their vacation time had run out to get a parting glance at a legendary music icon. Many left flowers at stadium gates or lingered in adjacent neighborhoods playing HyperPod music or shedding tears to mourn the memories made during the four decade long career of a man who can only be described after his passing as the King of Popular Music.

At more than 80 years of age, Michael Jackson, who spent his life after the 2009-10 This Is It! tour traveling around the world feeding the hungry, visiting those who were sick, in prison or impoverished, and starring in his own reality television series entitled Extreme Community Makeover, passed from this Earth. To say he will be missed by music fans and laymen alike would be a horrendous understatement. Jackson is survived by his three adult children who each have a charity foundation named after them which is funded entirely by Jackson's Love Trust Foundation.

Traffic and crowd control was nearly impossible for the Los Angeles Police Department so backup was called in from many nearby suburbs as a million LA'ers for a day waited in unbearable traffic, splashed by the stellar southern California sunshine for 16 hours or more just to salute the parted celebrity. It was a solemn occasion which will never be forgotten by anyone who organized, publicized, patrolled or attended the events. Each of four ceremonies were as shiny with stars as Jackson's famous sequined jackets, worn in concerts so many decades ago.

Instead,…The Staples Center in LA was filled beyond capacity as Michael Jackson's controversial life was celebrated by his loving family and celebs from all areas of the performing arts. Jackson's fame had certainly ebbed and flowed and for reasons which at times may not have been positive to most of mainstream America or even his fans. No one could question Jackson's ability to sing even Baptists into a groove and his energy onstage was unequalled.

To quote a CBS news anchor who reported on Jackson's life in the aftermath of his passing, there were so many parts of his life that were just "for lack of another term weird", that it was tough for him to maintain a huge following at times. After many hooplas which do not need to be recounted in this newsletter, Jackson's departure came way too early, disappointing Stevie Wonder, among many other colleagues, fans and relatives. With a movie documenting the steps to Jackson's comeback tour being released just this week, entitled This is It! the flick can't help but be a reminder of how fleeting life is and how we should decide whether we, as followers of celebrities, should demand more from our entertainers offstage. In Jackson's case, he lived, entertained, brought more controversy to the world than it need or he should have. Everyone watched sadly and saw it coming (with the exception of Wonder),…then That was It!

AGE OF COMPLIANCE

Jenks, Oklahoma has one of the most successful, if not the most successful, high school football programs in the state. Recently, some coaches got in hot water regarding treatment of some student-athletes. One infraction cost the Trojans (not to be confused with Southern Cal) nine forfeited games from the 2008 season. Yipee for those nine opponents which could only pad their win-loss records long after the season was over.

The governing agency over high school sports in the state of Oklahoma decided that part of Jenks' penalty would be to mandate a compliance officer to oversee that the entire athletic department so they will follow all the Oklahoma high school sports rules in every sport. Sounds like a great idea. Colleges have compliance officers to consort with the NCAA so why not the "football factory" high schools in the Sooner State. After all, if student-athletes can't spend part of the school day on athletics anymore, why not regulate the sport until it's no fun for anyone, from the athletes and coaches to the kindergartener's who go to the games to eat popcorn and drink Sprite from the concession stand. Ah, but digression has reared its ugly head.

That aside, the more interesting part of the mandatory compliance officer scenario is the fact, reportedly, Jenks has to pay for this new required post during a time when the state legislature has just cut the state budget by 5% and more cuts may follow. It would not be a stretch to think other larger sports programs will be next and soon there could be compliance officer conclaves with foam antenna toppers and thermal coffee cups celebrating the fact the big boys aren't on top any more because athletics have become so expensive, even the big ticket schools can't afford to comply with the rules.

Then the little guys will want compliance officers because if the big boys have 'em, everybody gets 'em. That should tank sports in schools across the state fairly quickly and then folks have to find something else to do as a community on Thursday and Friday nights in the fall. Yes Winston, the age of compliance has come. Save your glove, helmet, parallel bars, cleats, ball caps and shoulder pads because high school athletics may be headed to a museum near you.

MOUTHS OF BABES

"Why are 'Up With Trees' signs made of wood?"

FALLING BACK

This has nothing to do with the Essential John Waite Album. Set your clocks back one hour Saturday night or you're gonna be early for your next meeting/appointment/meal/phone call, etc… This has been a public service announcement of the CPeL.

RETRACTION X 2

Due to some speedy research for the last issue of CPeL, there were two incorrect items in the reports. First of all, Arkansas defeated Auburn soundly in Fayetteville, Arkansas instead of on the road at Auburn. Secondly, the Oklahoma City Thunder won their exhibition game against the Miami Heat 96-91. Thanks to readers for keeping the editor on his toes!

TULSA

The Hurricane played on Wednesday night for the second time in a row last week. The first week, Tulsa lost to Boise State in Tulsa, 28-21 in front of cold rain-drenched spectators. Then, for the second time in as many weeks, they dropped another close game. TU was leading the University of Texas-El Paso 24-13 early in the 4th quarter. That's when the Miners tunneled out 15 unanswered points, winning 28-24. The Texas-El Paso loss hurt worse due to the fact it was a tough Conference USA road game.

The stylish blue road helmets with Tulsa in gold on the side can take another rest this weekend because, at 4-3 overall with only one conference loss, Tulsa hosts Southern Methodist University this Saturday. The game kick's off at 1pm. A good win can get the Hurricane back on track to clean up on the rest of the conference schedule. Golden Hurricane 45, Mustangs 27.

ARKANSAS

The Hogs faced former head coach Houston Nutt at Ole Miss on Saturday. While the Razorbacks trailed early, they showed some grit by getting within 7 points of the Rebels 24-17 in the 3rd quarter but two 4th quarter field goals put the game out of reach. The final score was 30-17 in the loss. Eastern Michigan visits Fayetteville, Arkansas Saturday evening for what will be a nightmare for the 0-7 Eagles. Nothing like scheduling a directional school at home to build some mid-season confidence. Kick-off is at 6pm CDT,…Eagle Alka Seltzer at 6:30 CDT.

TENNESSEE

Sometimes rebuilding can be a rough gig. Tennessee fans are witnessing what appears to be a legitimate resurgence of the Volunteer football program. Aside from the UCLA game, this team has lost to some of the superior teams in its conference by narrow margins instead of being taken behind the proverbial woodshed by the likes of Florida and Alabama on the road Saturday. Tennessee lost those two games by a combined total of 12 points. The loss to the Crimson Tide at Tuscaloosa, Alabama Saturday was a 12-10 heartbreaker. That's a vast improvement.

Another year or two with some great coaching and this team will be competing for the Southeastern Conference title, if not a national championship. Provided Tim Tebow graduates (and he has to eventually) and Nick Saban pulls his customary disappearing act from 'Bama after they play for a national title, in the near future, the Volunteers are next in line considering Georgia's recent journey into mediocrity.

Saturday evening finds the guys in the white helmets and jerseys with tangerine trim at South Carolina for an eastern division SEC game against the Gamecocks. SC needs to be prepared to be haunted by a stingy UT defense. Things continue to turn around for Rocky Top & Company. Tennessee 20, SC 13.

OKLAHOMA STATE

Oklahoma State won over Baylor at Waco, Texas Saturday 34-7. The previous week, they defeated Missouri 33-17. Will they score 35 this week? If they do, they could be leading the Big 12 Conference. Maybe, just maybe,…this is the year.

Tulsa sports anchorman big Al Jerkins said this week Halloween is a perfect time for Oklahoma State and Texas to meet because each "has just the right shade of orange" to be playing October 31st. Yes, the Longhorns will make another appearance at T. Boone Pickens Stadium, get scared out of their collective wits by a spunky Cowboy squad and saunter back to Austin, Texas with another late, comeback victory under their belt, on the way to an unobstructed Big 12 Conference championship. Texas 36, OSU 35.

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma faced arch nemesis Texas at the Cotton Bowl on October 17th. The game was a hard fought 16-13 loss. The Sooner defense more than rose to the occasion but a sputtering offense, guided by the youthful, mustached, backup quarterback, Landry Jones, went into its cocoon just like it did against BYU and Miami as they surrendered the noisiest patch of grass on the Texas State Fairgrounds to the Longhorns.

OU's hopes for overtime sailed away when a field goal attempt seemed to have been caught by a six-year old boy riding in a box, attached to the bottom of a homemade weather balloon. The way the game had gone, OT would not have been a pleasant event for Oklahoma so it was better to accept the crushing 3-point defeat in regulation time. That must be five in a row for UT. So goes the series.

A trip to Lawrence, Kansas was much more fun for OU's offense which had not trouble putting 35 points on the board when it didn't count a lick. This was the Sooners' first win outside of Norman, Oklahoma this year. Holding the Jayhawks (whatever they are) to 13 points was another strong showing for the Oklahoma defense. This weekend, Boomer and Sooner are at home to trot their stuff against another team from the Sunflower State.

Kansas State was once coached by a man named Bill Snyder. Snyder was credited with the greatest program turnaround in NCAA history at KSU. His assistants had the familiar names of Stoops, Mangino, Venables, etc.. This is Mr. Snyder's first season back with the Wildcats (excuse me, PowerCats) and he gets to visit his protégés for a friendly contest this Halloween. It's homecoming for the Sooners and they don't want the kitty kats ruining it for them. The OU defense comes up with another brilliant effort and the offense plays to its potential for a 6-0 Oklahoma win!

THE PERCENTAGES

CPeL missed last weeks picks but the picks from the October 17th weekend played to the tune of 3-1 for a total season record of 18-8. That's a whopping 69% for all those Northwest Airline pilots out there.

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

Carlos
www.crimsonpigskin.com

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

____________________________________________________________
Find Bathroom Remodelers
Get free estimates from top-rated bathroom contractors. No obligation!
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2131/c?cp=wkC6IBSOM2ZSlp8hnhs4IwAAJz3lxC3Y_yhwMcAbfftr15aWAAQAAAAFAAAAAE1eBT8AAAMlAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIYOQAAAAA=

The Crimson Pigskin e-Letter: Vol 12, Issue 6

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

ANDALICIOUS

Located on the Northwest corner of 61st and Yale, in Tulsa, Oklahoma in Kingspointe Village is another hidden jewel of the culinary community. A tasty Tex-Mex experience awaits diners at Andales Tex-Mex Cantina. The food is hot and fresh, with some new twists to old recipes such as Spanish Rice, white or yellow queso dip and a variety of homemade salsas.

The prices won't leave a dent in your budget and there is a competitively priced lunch menu. Unlike one of the other major cantina chains, Andales still has fajitas-for-two on the menu for a reasonable amount of cash. On your birthday, dessert's on the house so order up some decadent bunuelos and enjoy the lightest, crispiest dessert in town. As if the question had to be asked,…Yes, Andales has speedy friendly service so come on! Enjoy!

LADIES DON'T LOOK!

Outdoor water parks closed on Labor Day. With temperatures dropping and people commuting to work in canoes, are gentlemen prepared to deal with another shower when nature calls? Probably not. That's where Anti-Splash International comes in.

ASI not only manufactures a men's room wall receptacle screen guard, they've taken sanitation in the loo to the next level. The company makes a mat that hangs in the back of the receptacle and limits, even eliminates backsplash with incredible effectiveness. The device comes in three colors: Royal Blue, Scarlet Red and Environmentalist Brown.

Installation is easy but be careful to stay dry. The manufacturer's instructions are to replace the mats "every two weeks or so, depending on traffic." The website goes on to say dry, sanitary living goes for "about 35 cents per day" per device. This has been yet another public service announcement of the CPEL.

TULSA

With the Oklahoma Thunder several miles away in downtown Tulsa losing 96-91, the TU Golden Hurricane had their own troubles on their hands. After a see-saw game in the first quarter, Boise State scored 10 points in each of the 2nd and 3rd quarters to take the lead over the Golden Hurricane for good Wednesday night at Chapman Stadium in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The ESPN televised contest was played in cold misty conditions which customarily don't arrive in this part of the country until Halloween. In this case, a 4th quarter TU touchdown wasn't enough to catch up to the Broncos as Boise trick-or-treated its way to a 6-0 record. This was one of the "measuring stick" games on TU's schedule and Coach Todd Graham's team almost reached the high water mark, losing 28-21.

At 4-2 the Hurricane has not suffered a Conference USA loss and is still in the hunt for the conference championship. For the second week in a row, Tulsa plays on Wednesday night at the University of Texas-El Paso. UTEP has presented some challenges for TU in previous years but surprisingly Tulsa has won 5 of 7 meetings in El Paso versus an even 4-4 record against the Miners in T-Town.

Tulsa is loaded with talent and has faced some tough competition in Oklahoma and Boise State but the Miners could tunnel out a good game, having faced #2 Texas and being able to defeat Houston at home. A conservative Hurricane overcasts the Sun Bowl Wednesday for another televised game on ESPN. Tulsa 35, UTEP 20.

ARKANSAS

Arkansas fans wished they were looking into the future when the team handed Auburn 21-point loss in the unfriendly confines of Auburn, Alabama. This brought the Hogs' record to 3-2 on the year, 1-2 in conference play. Celebrations were likely limited to the ride to the airport because this week is a little tougher for U of A.

Florida's Heisman and national championship winning quarterback is highly questionable for this Saturday's game at The Swamp in Gainesville, Florida. According to a FoxSports.com report The 1:30pm CDT contest with the Razorbacks has been circled as a "trap game" on the Gators' schedule. Now with Tim Tebow likely not to play, and in light of the Hogs' road win at Auburn, the cardinal and white fans are rolling up to this one with a great deal of optimism.

This game could make Arkansas' season and losing will do no damage so if pigs fly, the Russian Boars could pull this one off. Since Florida has thoroughbred athletes at every position and a raucous crowd that refuses to let its team lose, CPEL is still going with the Gators. UF 31, Splash! Chomp! Razorbacks 24.

TENNESSEE

Winning solidly, by a score of 45-19, over rival Georgia last week had to be sweet for Rocky Top and the other hounds sniffing around Knoxville, Tennessee. With conference losses to Florida and Auburn, from the eastern and western divisions of the Southeastern Conference respectively, there is little margin for error for the Volunteers as the rest of the schedule approaches. UT is idle this weekend but travels to Alabama for a swim at the Tidal pool in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Predictions on that one next week.

OKLAHOMA STATE

The Cowboys (not to be confused with the John Wayne flick) picked up a good road win in College Station, Texas Saturday, winning 36-31. Kyle Field is a purgatory for opposing teams and a five-point win is equal to a 10-12 point win anywhere else in the nation so winning over aTm was a good victory and definitely a step in the winning direction for OSU.

Saturday night at 8:15pm CDT, a wildcard Missouri Tiger squad comes to Stillwater, Oklahoma for what should be a topsy-turvy interdivisional Big 12 Conference game. While the teams are fairly evenly matched, MU is still smarting from a home loss to Nebraska last weekend. It would appear the Shuckers are re-emerging as a force in the North. Fortunately, the Pokes don't face NU this season.

Always athletic, Mizzou should provide a lot of entertainment and only frostbite will prevent T. Boone Pickens Stadium from emptying before the final whistle blows. Oklahoma State, star wide receiver Dez Bryant swirling in controversy, should be focused enough to win but weather may play a factor in the late evening contest. OSU 37, MU 34.

OKLAHOMA

Not to complain, but somebody needs to do something about this rooster 11am CDT kick-off business. Fair goers won't even have time to frog down a Fletcher's Corny Dog a fried Snickers bar a fresh beverage of choice and not splash their boots (Thanks to ASI.) before stadium gates open at the Cotton Bowl in downtown Dallas, Texas Saturday morning. Beware the Ides of October.

On a positive note, Oklahoma fans will be able to make a hasty exit through the mob of inebriated Texans after Texas soundly defeats the Sooners. Yes, gloom and doom for the Okies in this one. Here's why:

- Oklahoma has a rusty Heisman winner, in Sam Bradford, returning at quarterback for only the second week this season.
- Oklahoma's receivers' gloves have as much wear on them as the men's room splash mat at Bed Bath & Beyond because they couldn't catch a cold at the North Pole.
- Texas has a score to settle with the Sooners after defeating OU last season, then sitting on their Texas sofas, burping pizza juice, watching the boys in crimson play for a national title on January 8th against Florida.
- UT multi-year senior Jordan Shipley made OU's defensive backfield look like a Pop Warner crew enough times last year that there's no reason to believe he won't eclipse this defensive backfield just like he did last week against Colorado.
- Texas and Miami share game tapes and the hole in OU's defense can be seen from a weather satellite.
- Offensive game plan: 1st down, hand-off up the middle, 2nd down, hand-off up the middle, 3rd down,…surprise! Hand-off up the middle. Punt!

Had enough? Here's to opposite's day ala Spongebob Squarepants. 'Horns 52, Oklahoma 30.

THE PERCENTAGES

Last week CPEL went 3-2 thanks to the Arkansas and Tennessee wins. That brings the season total to 15-7. That's a small retreat to 68% for Big Tex and his Lone Star officiating team.

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend.

Carlos
www.crimsonpigskin.com

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

____________________________________________________________
Life Experience Degree
Find out now if you qualify for an Almeda University degree!
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2131/c?cp=1DUikeazUNGYu7WhLxNI_wAAJz3lxC3Y_yhwMcAbfftr15aWAAQAAAAFAAAAAOxReD8AAAMlAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABSJNgAAAAA=

The Crimson Pigskin e-Letter: Vol 12, Issue 5

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS

OU star women's basketball player Courtney Paris hopped into Jimmy's Egg with a friend Saturday. She still had the eye of the tiger and looked like she was ready to post up anyone and everyone in the place. What was on the table before the crown princess of Oklahoma Basketball? An omelet and pancakes.

Saturday, September 19th found a couple of former super football stars in Norman for the Sooners' ballgame against Tulsa. The Boz, Brian Bosworth, was standing on the sidelines with the team, as he often does, and seemed to be enjoying the nice weather as he rooted the Sooner defense to a shut-out win. Bosworth was an anchor at linebacker during the 1985 national championship season.

On a cool November day, during the fall of 1975, in Columbia, Missouri, OU was trailing and had been struggling with the Tigers. The University of Missouri grounds crew had not cut the grass on the field for some time, in an effort to slow down the speedy Oklahoma offensive backfield. It worked until the closing minutes of the game.

That's when number 24 broke loose into the Mizzou secondary, and raced as fast as his painted silver shoes would carry him into the end zone. Within a TD (No, not Tom Dirato) the Sooners scored again and went for the two-point conversion. The play was called for number 24. Coach Barry Switzer's $100 per hour babysitter carried the day and the Sooners were not derailed from winning their 5th national title as a result, defeating Michigan in the Orange Bowl, 14-6.

Switzer's former childcare specialist was on the sideline on the 19th, in a navy blazer and a white ballcap. He wore some light trousers. "Hey, that's Little Joe down there." "It is?" "Yeah." "And he's wearing silver shoes." Joe Washington was wearing custom silver shoes he had not painted himself. There was on Sooner legend and champion, guiding more young champions. Way to go Little Joe!

THE CRIMSON REEL

Hey, CPEL sorts through the latest flicks for you. Don't waste any more time going over lists of movies online or in the newspapers. Read CPEL and get the straight scoop before you head out to a favorite local theater and drop some change on a groaner. Here are a few ratings you can count on.

Transformers 2: This movie, released summer 2009, is as good, maybe better than the first installment. The characters already introduced in round one, they, the storyline and the Spielberg humor have definitely matured over time.

The story takes more than a coupla of twists and turns (What kid is going to tell his alien robot 2010 Chevy Camaro a.k.a. Bumble Bee to stay home from college?!?). Out dvd October 20th, this is one of the only movies in recent memory worth the price of prime-time admission.

G-Force: When a classified project is cancelled, secret agent guinea pigs go on a cute high-tech 3-Dimensional romp through sparks and attack appliances, leaving behind a trail of bewildered looks and destruction. Can they defeat the ultimate enemy? Hope so! Sort of a spoof of some other movies, only the younger crowd will like this great one for young kids. Other than that, save your cash for another movie going adventures.

All About Steve: Currently in theaters, Sandra Bullock has been in bigger movies and is probably trying to forget taking part in this one. Oklahoma City gets a mention when protesters are gathered to debate about a newborn infant with three legs. There is a near riot as the groups attempt to persuade the parents to decide to keep the leg or amputate. Further evidence the common sense located in this part of the nation has relegated it to flyover zone status.

Reminiscent of Something About Mary, this show is an off-the-wall, face in hands, comedy that seems to spiral downhill at the beginning and skids to a predictable finish, considering it's a story about mass media and misunderstanding, two things which go hand in hand. Save yourself the trouble and watch laundry tumble dry.

Harry Potter XLIII: The Half-Blood Prince: Another summer/fallish film, the mystical effects in the Potter series are fairly mind-blowing and downright creepy sometimes. Fortunately for CPEL's reviewers, it's easy to pick up the story and let the imagination run wild, even at the 6th motion picture in the list. Who couldn't use a little "liquid luck" these days?

Jokes have been made about the aging acting corps but there aren't many studios out there making movies like these. Whether Potter is controversial or not for moviegoers, these are some well made thought provoking movies. A niche audience gets its next dose of HP in what won't be the last spooky movie surrounding Hogwartz. See it, if you dare.

TULSA

After the loss at Oklahoma, Tulsa cleaned up on overmatched Sam Houston State 56-3. Then after one week at home all season so far, the Hurricane came up with a 27-10 win at Rice. TU's next outing is on Wednesday night, October 14th, when Boise State visits Chapman Stadium/Skelly Field in Tulsa, Oklahoma for a mid-week televised contest.

Tulsa is currently 4-1 with the only loss to the Sooners. Boise State is 5-0. National sportscasters are already making a case for the Broncos to make a BCS bowl at the end of this season. There is a lot of football to play before that happens but, realistically, the Golden Hurricane is the only thing between Boise and an undefeated season.

TU needs a good crowd to win Wednesday. There may be some local factors hindering that. First of all, the Tulsa State Fair will have come to an end 3 days before, whisking much of Tulsa's expendable entertainment income away with it. Secondly, the Oklahoma City Thunder will be holding an exhibition game, against the Miami Heat, at the BOk Center downtown which tips off at the same instant as the kick-off at TU. Fans should plan on bringing jackets, potato mashers and anything else that will help deal with the red hot Broncos. Tulsa 38, Potato Horses 41.

ARKANSAS

Just when it looked like pigs could fly, the Hogs became a sandy spot underneath the Crimson Tide at Tuscaloosa, Alabama on September 26th to the tune of 35-7. Then on October 3rd, U of A was able to defeat Texas A&M, 47-19, at Jerry's World in Dallas, Texas brining the season total to 2 wins, 2 losses. Next up for the Razorbacks is a visit from undefeated Auburn. An 11am CDT kick-off will ensure Arkansas fans can get all their weekend chores completed after the loss. Auburn 30, Hogs 6.

TENNESSEE

The still fragile Volunteers, now at 2-3 on the season, defeated the Ohio Bobcats 34-23 on October 3rd, before dropping a 26-22 decision to Auburn at Knoxville, Tennessee. There's probably no shame in the loss since the 5-0 Tigers are currently tied for first place with Alabama in the Western Division of the Southeastern Conference. Maybe the ragtag Vols were thinking ahead to their annual donnybrook with Georgia, coming up this Saturday.

The game will also be at Neyland Cathedral in Tennessee. This should be an evenly matched event but UT has already lost a couple of games they could have been more competitive in so they'll follow suit and let the Dawgs have this one late in the game. Rocky Top and UGA won't be meeting at the hydrant after this game. Bulldogs 24, Volunteers 22.

OKLAHOMA STATE

After having their own Rice boil in Stillwater, Oklahoma 41-24, followed by rambling all over Grambling State 56-6, the Cowboys had a week off to recuperate from some injuries and get ready for Big 12 Conference play. This week finds the Pokes traveling to College Station, Texas for a game at Texas A&M. The Fightin' Texas Aggies have been down in recent years but have had a few shining moments already this season leading up to their current 3-1 record. OSU shouldn't have much trouble winning the game and coming back to a home date with Missouri on October 17th. OSU 45, Texas Aggies 16.

OKLAHOMA

The Sooners had September 26th off. Maybe it was a good thing? Maybe it was a bad thing? October 3rd found Oklahoma and a few fans in muggy, Miami, Florida to play a former rival Hurricanes team from the University of Miami. Things looked great until the Miami offensive coordinator found a big hole in the middle of the Oklahoma defense and Sooner star running back, Demarco Murray found himself on the turf after sliding down, untouched, on more than one critical play in the game.

Then with visions of BYU dancing in Sooner fans' heads, Oklatanic sank into the breezy Atlantic, 21-20. Oklahoma is now 2-2. OU's struggles on defense were equaled by offensive lethargy which was best illustrated with hand-offs to running backs straight up the middle of the closing Miami defense on 3rd down and double-digit situations way too many times.

This weekend Baylor visits Norman, Oklahoma for the Sooners' conference opener. Baylor is outmanned and OU shouldn't have trouble but they'll find a way to struggle enough for a few loud groans to float over campus. It shouldn't shock the most casual observer if the crimson club hands the game to Baylor in preparation for the Texas Longhorns the following week, at a lovely neutral site in Dallas, Texas. Sooners 29, Bears 28. Will Bradford be back in time for the burnt orange? With Jermaine Gresham and Ryan Broyles out, will it matter?

The CPEL refuses to report on Oklahoma any more this season unless the Sooners' record is above .500. If at any time this season, OU's record dips below .500, the CPEL will replace Oklahoma's space with restaurant reviews. Hopefully there will be coverage of the Sooners after the Baylor game. If not, you know,… At least Tums help with indigestion. Alka-Seltzer couldn't cut through that display Saturday night and the fans deserve better.

THE PERCENTAGES

When the toils of life infringe on the entertainment section, the CPEL doesn't make it to the box so last week was not picked by CPEL. The record after the previous week's perfect 4-0 picks landed a 12-5 record. That's 70% for all those Miami Dolphins moonlighting at Hurricanes out there.

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

Carlos
www.crimsonpigskin.com

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

____________________________________________________________
Medical Transciption Deg
Jumpstart your career by getting a Medical Transcription Degree online
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2131/c?cp=I2phYBVf6yYvRRmy7U-dqAAAJz3lxC3Y_yhwMcAbfftr15aWAAQAAAAFAAAAAFAcAkAAAAMlAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgyIAAAAAA=

The Crimson Pigskin e-Letter: Vol 12, Issue 4

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

IN MEMORIAM

Ted was many things during his life. He was a model citizen with an excellent, understated sense of humor. He was a successful attorney, who on occasion represented athletic celebrities in one of the major markets of America. He enjoyed the performing arts, opera in particular.

As a young man, he married an amazing lady from the United Kingdom. While she didn't catch more fish on family fishing excursions, "She caught bigger fish than the men did." She was the daughter of a World War II British service man. Ted and his bride lived in a time when people understood: Anything worth having in this world requires hard work and sacrifice. These are foundational truths they passed on to their children. Ones which will endure for years to come.

As his 96 years of life drove on, he saw the face of sports change in many ways. Reportedly, he was a follower of Sooner football and a young Oklahoma student-athlete named Sam Bradford gained Ted's attention as he rose to starting quarterback at the University of Oklahoma. He didn't care too much for the giant television monitors at sporting events because they were very distracting. He felt it drew too much attention away from Major League Baseball, a game he was deeply passionate about.

Of all the things Ted was and did in his life, the thing he was the most was loved. That became evident early on. Count this as one life which is better for having known him. So, it is with profound sorrow and excessive gratitude, the CPEL would like to say: God bless his descendants and all they come in contact with.

BRO-NESS JONAS

At the ripe old ages of 21, 20 and 17, respectively as of last week, Kevin, Joe and Nick Jonas (The Jonas Brothers, JoBros for short) just completed an enormous leg of their 2009-2010 world tour. This latest globe-hopping episode which featured American Idol Jordin Sparks as special guest took the JoBros from the Bahamas to Europe and coast-to-coast in the U.S.

For those who may have caught the Jonas Brothers last tour movie, currently on dvd in spotty 3-D imagery, the latest tour following up the release of the CD Lines, Vines and Trying Times is a quantum leap ahead into live show presentation. The boys brought along a full brass ensemble, spare drummer, guitar player and two violinists. The most refreshing thing about the Bros is with the exception of Joe, the face of the band who shares lead vocals with his brother Nick, the oldest and youngest are very good musicians. This show, which musically offers everything from ballads to pop/rock fusion funk stylings is worth every dime of admission.

Joe's lead vocals are a highlighted through a few numbers approximately two-thirds into the performance. He has a special live version of a song called Much Bette,r during which he ad libs comments directed towards country music star Taylor Swift. "Got a rep for breakin' hearts. Now I'm done with country stars. No more tears on her guitar,…I'm not bitter", he croons as the little girls go berserk. Ah,…young love.

At one point in the show, Joe urges all parents to stand and dedicates Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline to them, serenading them as they stand throughout the number. Diamond's distinctive vocals are unequalled on this tune. However, Joe is able to showcase his solid vocal skills and makes the grown-ups want to sing along. He and his brothers are as comfortable on the stage as they are when their mom makes them take out the trash.

The hottest musical group Disney currently promotes traveled by Bro plane, Bro train and the Bro bus, into the hearts of girls aged 5 to 25, and onto the cover of a special edition of Rolling Stone magazine. A reporter from the periodical which "gathers no moss" rode along with the Bros on five different tours stops at various geographical locations, including the Jerry Dome in Arlington, Texas. The entire mag is dedicated to all things Jonas.

There are pictures of the boys playing softball against a local all-star (girl's) team, wiffleball in the parking lot of a venue the day before a show and the youngest, Nick, hiding in an equipment trailer, riding safely past the crowd to the enormous 140-foot stage. The monstrosity had a double rotating center and two more lilly pad-like platforms on either end. The design assures hundreds of floor seated teens a chance to reach out and touch the fingertips of the JoBro of choice.

"Are you sure you're ready for a concert with all those screaming little girls?" "Oh yeah. Been to much louder shows over the years. Piece of cake." The cool tones of the Bro-ness Jonas could be heard peaking over the nine year-old girl directly behind with the lungs of Christina Aguillera,…just barely. Eyewitnesses reported they "couldn't scream when Kevin, Nick and Joe were on the stage". They could barely even talk. "I can't believe I cried. That's how excited I was", stated one concert-goer.

With the window of the Jonas Brother's tour bus bearing yet another message of love from an adoring fan, concert tee proudly donned and a new infusion of memorabilia in hand straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak, delighted fans strolled into the warm Tulsa night and rolled back to respective residences, ears ringing and still humming catchy tunes like World War III, S.O.S. and Fly With Me. Says Rolling Stone, "What will the Jonas Brothers do when the screams of little girls are no longer heard [at their concerts]." What will the little ladies father's do?

TULSA AND THE BOYS IN CRIMSON

There's a new University of Tulsa Sheriff in town. He goes by the name of Captain 'Cane. While retaining the same name as the last mascot, the new and "improved" Cap'n 'Cane (No, not the breakfast cereal.) back story goes as follows according the the University of Tulsa athletic webpage:
"The Captain `Cane story goes like this . . . Colin Cane, a freshman at The University of Tulsa, worked in IT support at night to help pay his way through college. During an electrical storm one night, Colin was called to the TU sports complex to fix a malfunctioning satellite that was broadcasting a live game. Never again would he watch his favorite team in action as a mere mortal. As he adjusted the satellite, the roar of the crowd coursed through the transmitter just as it was zapped with static electricity from the storm. Colin became entangled in a web of cyber-athletic forces. The atmospheric oddity known as a "binary vortex" mutated Colin over the course of several years. He eventually lost his hair but gained super-human powers. Thus he became Captain `Cane, a champion athlete and highly educated zealot of all things TU.
The Hurricane-type mascot has been a part of the TU tradition since 1977, when the mascot was known as "Hurc" and later a transformation to the nickname "Huffy". In the early 1990's, Captain `Cane took on a new look."
MEANWHILE IN NORMAN,…

Each time the Golden Hurricane offense worked its way into field goal range, they were either penalized or sacked back out of field goal range. The clear, sunny afternoon in Norman, Oklahoma came to a close with OU pitching a shutout, winning easily, 45-0. To make matters worse, defensively, TU had given up a school record six touchdown passes to Oklahoma's backup quarterback, Landry Jones.

In most cases six TD's (No, not Tom Dirato) would be a great thing and the fans cheered every one of the lovely scoring tosses. In the Big 12 Conference, it means no scoring rushing the ball. That's not a good sign. Championship teams have stellar defenses, like OU's so far, but they can run the ball on good defenses and get a couple of yards on third down.

Next week's opponent Miami of Florida and the Texas Longhorns are licking their lips watching game film on this. Bottom line: OU's offensive line has to push people off the ball and prove the running game exists and can be a potential weapon or it's gonna be a long conference schedule in Norman.

Tulsa's high-octane offense returns to play tonight in Tulsa, versus Sam Houston State. The Hurricane didn't play a bad game at Oklahoma but they have a couple of areas they can improve on, such as protecting the ball on pass plays. Oklahoma picked off two D.J. Kinne passes en route to the win. The SHSU defense isn't nearly as stout as Oklahoma's stingy, hard-hitting crew. After three weeks on the road, Tulsa wins big in the home opener. Captain 'Cane huffs, puffs, screams like a nine year-old at a Jonas Brothers concert and scoots the Bobcats back to the Lone Star State. TU 56, SHSU 20.

The Sooners are idle this weekend and will face Miami, in the Sunshine State next Saturday. Don Woods could've told them how to handle the Hurricanes. More to come on this match-up later.

ARKANSAS

In a valiant effort, the Hogs lost to Georgia last week, dropping a 52-41 shoot-out to the Dawgs in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The home venue lent itself to a Razorback victory but even though the CPEL picked the porkers in an upset, it didn't materialize on the playing surface. Yuck.

Within the hour, Bobby Petrino's flying 'Backs will be wading in a Crimson Tide flowing directly through Tuscaloosa, Alabama. On the road and facing a tough opponent, U of A is overmatched today and despite success in recent years against the Tide, should face another tough divisional conference loss. 'Bama (No, not the pies.) 31, Whoa Pig Souiee Razorbacks! 20.

TENNESSEE

The "King" Elvis Presley would have been tearing up on Saturday night in Memphis, or Kalamazoo or wherever he's playing pinochle with Michael Jackson these days, when the Vols lost a 23-13 defensive battle against arch-rival Florida in the Splash! Chomp! Swamp of Gainesville, Florida. Evidently the defensively minded coaching staff picked up some tips from Oklahoma on how to defend against the Gators' super-star quarterback Tim Tebow and did so with equal success, allowing the juggernaut which is the Florida offense only 23 points.

This moves UT to a 1-2 record, with only one of those being a critical divisional loss to the future luggage of the Southeastern Conference from the wetlands of , Central Eastern North America. The Volunteers can bounce back tonight as they host the Bobcats of Ohio University. Clearly outmanned and outclassed, U of O will take their gate receipts and a loss back to Athens, Ohio. Tennessee 63, Oh High Uh 3.

OKLAHOMA STATE

Back in the winning saddle, Pistol Pete poached a few owl eggs and made a victory omelet in Stillwater, Oklahoma Saturday night, 41-24. The Pokes were never in danger of losing and allowed 21 points in the second half but made up for it by scoring 20 of their own in front of a home crowd of orange and black fans.

Today at 6pm, the Cowboys will be rambling all over the field with the Tigers from Grambling State. There's no way Grambling wins this game. Oklahoma State's offense is little dinged up but can still put a lot of points on the board in sixty minutes of effort. Stillwater encounters the euphoria of winning another home game. The Grambling State Tiger Band enjoys the euphoria of another winning musical/dance effort. OSU 49, GSU 13. Grambling Band 9 on the richter scale. Cowboy Marching Band 7.

THE PERCENTAGES

With last week's 3-1 posting, the CPEL is now picking 8-5 on the season. That's 61 ½ percent for all those shoe salesmen out there. Onward and upward!

Apologies for the tardiness of this week's newsletter but the reader will note NONE of the ballgames picked have kicked off so no pre-knowledge is available to improve the quality of the picks. Too bad for the CPEL. Disgruntled fans are entitled to a refund to be determined at a later date,…much later.

Thanks for reading and have a great week!

Carlos

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

____________________________________________________________
Wanna lose weight? Weight Loss Programs that work. Click here.
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2131/fc/BLSrjnsEGrEtZAA8ScjPh7hI9KCYVFDVlTIcuMMM4W6vGWpPJcJN9nRKi5K/

The Crimson Pigskin e-Letter: Vol 12, Issue 3

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

WHY COLLEGE FOOTBALL?

In its twelfth year, The Crimson Pigskin e-Letter (CPEL) is privileged to bring readers unique perspectives on a great game, NCAA football. Whether taking the readers to the games in stories as varied as the 119 Division I programs participating in the sport or expounding on the legends and lore of the storied teams America loves, CPEL mixes the celebration of life, that is athletics, and the humor that tying us all together to bring something new and thought provoking to each recipient's e-mail box.

For more than a century, in most states, donning a sweatshirt and cheering on a favorite team, against the backdrop of nature's fall colors, has been a rite of the season for fans. That season is now. What are you waiting for? Find a local game or pick a team and follow them all season. Watch the games with close friends and family. Memories can't help but be born over some good grilling and friendly ribbing (no pun intended).

Observe the players at each position on the field gaining experience and becoming part of a team, going all out not for their own glory but for the young men on each side of him. These are the kinds of things taught to players not so many years ago by a clever coach named Lou Holtz. If anyone knows about families brought together by college football, it is he.

What does this have to do with a football newsletter on the internet? In Holtz' autobiography, Wins, Losses and Lessons, the old ball coach relates a story describing an example of how college football fanaticism can in fact become a meaningful part of one's life for the better. The account begins with Holtz telling about his high school football coach back in East Liverpool, Ohio, Wade Watts.

As a first-time football player at nine years of age, Holtz describes himself as "an eighty-pound wonder who made up for his lack of size by being slow and weak". He played many games in high school but it was his thirst for learning the game inside and out that sparked the interest of Watts. "Imagine my surprise when Coach told my parents, 'I think Lou should go to college and someday become a coach',…My parents decided Coach Watts was right: I should go to college. I said, No. They said, Yes. So we compromised like we always compromised in our home. I went to college."

Years later, Watts had retired to California and Holtz received a call from Mrs. Watts. "Coach Watts isn't doing well and it would sure boost his spirits if you would call him,…I invited him to the Notre Dame-Southern Cal game in Anaheim. I put him in my wife's seat, and we won the game 38-37." The next year Watts stood on the Notre Dame sideline with Holtz and the team.

After eleven years of this ND-USC tradition, Coach Watts passed away, "two months after I retired from Notre Dame". Mrs. Watts called again to say "the Notre Dame-Southern Cal game kept him alive longer than anyone expected. 'He lived for that weekend.'" Why college football? Family, Future, Tradition & Love.

TULSA @ OKLAHOMA

The Golden Hurricane scored 44 points on the road in Albuquerque, New Mexico last Saturday night and only allowed the Lobos 10. What this means is TU is now undefeated at 2-0 while UNM is a winless 0-2. Is this any indication of what will transpire when the team loads up on a bus Friday and rides to Norman, Oklahoma to play the 1-1 Sooners? Probably not.

What TU has going for it is a solid offense which can put up astronomical numbers in a hurry. The defense however, is relatively untested and a more hostile environment would be difficult to imagine than Owen Field. The Hurricane will need to evolve into The Perfect Storm before Saturday if Todd Graham plans on defeating the state's top dawg on the football food chain.

Last week found Oklahoma swim-finning past Idaho State High School's Bengals 64-0. CPEL predicted a score of 70-0. Shucks. What does anyone know about the Sooners? The offense has some stars but the brightest one with the Heisman hardware is watching the proceedings in street clothes.

Quarterback Landry Jones did a respectable job last outing but against a lackluster defensive unit at best. Oklahoma still struggled to score inside the red zone. Despite the intermittent revolving gaping hole that appears in the Oklahoma defense, they appear to be able to stop opponents if they have to and with 80,000 onlookers in attendance (silent bystanders of course) they should be able to put the brakes on Tulsa's offense sufficiently to pull this one out. Oklahoma 38, Tulsa 27.

ARKANSAS

The 2009 Hogs resemble a decent football team. They were idle last weekend and will need to rise above decentness Saturday when the Georgia Bulldogs roll into The Natural State. Oklahoma State defeated Georgia in the season opener so the Dawgs are not invincible but always have enough athletes to make a contest interesting.

In regard to the Southeastern Conference standings, a Razorback loss would only cost them a half-game because Arkansas is in the western division while UGA hails from the eastern division. All that to say Arkansas could still play for a conference championship at the end of the year as long as all the teams from the west lose at least one game as well. Arkansas' rebuilding hits warp speed with a win over Georgia. Hogs 28, Dawgs 20.

TENNESSEE

The Volunteers lost a 19-15 heartbreaker in Knoxville, Tennessee Saturday to Coach Rick Neuheisel's UCLA Bruins. A five-point UT fourth quarter wasn't enough to overcome the 9-point deficit left over from the third stanza and an undefeated season slipped out of the Vols' grasp again.

Next up is the defending national champion, Florida. Making this early-season assignment tougher is playing on the road in Gainesville, Florida. CPEL has stated year-in and year-out the later in the season this game is played, the better chance Tennessee has to win it. Third game of the year, on the road, after a crushing non-conference loss. Nope. Splash! Chomp! Gators 40, Vols 18.

OKLAHOMA STATE

The Oklahoma State Cowboys were Houston Cougarized while attempting to round up Pistol Pete's Posse. "It was like watching the Bad News Bears take the field," reported one game attendee. As right as Poke fortunes had gone the week before, the tables turned to an equal amount for the worse as UH won in Stillwater, Oklahoma 45-35. Good thing it was a non-conference meeting.

This week, an angry posse will round up the Rice Owls and stifle their wisdom to the tune of 52-21.

THE PERCENTAGES

Thanks to Tennessee and Oklahoma State going against last weeks predictions opening week's 3-2 record has now blossomed into a 5-4 tally. That's 55% for all those college football statisticians out there. Onward and upward.

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

Carlos

THE CRIMSON PIGSKIN e-LETTER

____________________________________________________________
Doctorate Degrees Online
Boost your career with an online doctoral degree. Enroll today!
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2131/c?cp=1XsCpPRf24VqdSH7Rwg1IAAAJz3lxC3Y_yhwMcAbfftr15aWAAQAAAAFAAAAACHGMD8AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADI5AAAAAA==