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October 31, 2008

Ok, now it's over

Time to pack it in. The team that stepped on the field looked worse than the one we saw lose to Louisville and Pitt, two teams that we are better than. We've been outcoached by the Wannstache and a guy that had people calling for his job a few games into his first season. And we haven't even played Bill Stewart yet.

The effort level is pathetic. TJ dropped three easy passes. The offensive line couldn't block a pee-wee kid. Good coaching should be able to get these guys hyped up and ready to go. They should be able to get guys to play above their talent level. They didn't do that last night. But most of all, they should be able to avoid penalties like off-sides and illegal motions. They should be able to not waste timeouts in the third quarter because they didn't pay attention to the on-coming subs or were caught off-guard by the hurry-up.

So my new analogy is worse than the teenage girl. We are Clemson. We'll get everybody hyped up, and then disappoint them. Every year. Why? This is a team that cannot win on the road and cannot handle the pressure of being good. It's probably the most talented team in the conference, just like Clemson. But for whatever reason, the coaches and players just can't handle the knowledge that they are better than everyone. My scapegoat is not Jim Leavitt. My scapegoat is Mike Simmonds. His offensive lines have not improved, even with experience. Their effort is pathetic. Look at those reverses. Each time, a slow lineman failed to get in proper position. I didn't pick up the number on the TJ reverse, but that guy was not in shape to do such a big pull. And these are the starters. What happens when 4 seniors leave? If they aren't good, what does that say about the guys behind them?

Until the offensive line recruiting and coaching picks up, this team will be vulnerable to angry defenses. And until the defense can stop a backup quarterback with a broken arm, this team doesn't deserve to sniff the Big East title. I will say that the o-line recruiting appears to be picking up this year. 3 commits, with two guys that are well regarded by all three services. John McGhin hasn't been evaluated yet, but he had some impressive offers. I think a JUCO offensive tackle (a real tackle, not a hybrid guard) is needed. There are some guys on the lists that fit the bill.

So we'll make a bowl, which is nice. But the letdowns are killers. Hopefully Grothe's senior season will be better. But this was a year in which the Big East was on a platter for the taking. And we failed. Miserably. 

View photos from Cincinnati game

GrotheQuarterback Matt Grothe leaves the field after USF's 24-10 loss to Cincinnati Thursday night.

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October 28, 2008

Viewing party for Cincinnati game

Andros 1 Building Council is hosting a viewing party for Thursday night's game against Cincinanti in the Delta lobby from 7:15--11:15. Pizza, chips, dip, popcorn and beverages will be served.

"Be sure to come with some spirit too; 23rd is still a ranking!" the group says on its Facebook page. Let them know whether you'll be there.

About This Blog

Bulls Pit hosts provide commentary and photos from the fans' seat. Bloggers Alex Mendoza, Brian Taylor and David Weber will offer their views on the USF Bulls and invite your take on the team, the opponents and the game day scene. Throw us your best stuff and all your green-and-gold photos.

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The Authors

Alex Mendoza is a senior at USF studying biomedical sciences. He has been a member of the Student Bulls Club since freshman year, cheering on the Bulls with his green face and spiky green hair with dozens of other die-hard fans. E-mail Alex

Brian Taylor, a USF alum, got to experience the Bulls' first football season as a senior in 1997. He's been hooked ever since. Brian is part of a group 40 ticketholders that celebrate before and after each game. E-mail Brian
David Weber, graduated from USF in May and is a student at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Even though he's at another Big East school, he's a Bulls fan first and only. E-mail David