Monday, October 16, 2006

Victory



It happened. Karma finally kicked in. The glimpses that we've seen all season of who these Buffs could be have finally been realized.

Let's be clear. The Buffs dind't merely beat Texas Tech on Saturday, they kicked their ass. They dominated both sides of the ball from wire to wire. And save for one mistake that turned into a long scoring play, we shut out one of the most prolific offenses in the country. Special teams were special again. Hugh and the rest of the stable were spectacular. The defense made big plays and got take-aways.

And it was all done without a single Buff penalty. Mind-boggling.

So things ae looking up. I won't declare that the Buffs are back just yet. But we have indeed crossed an important chasm, and it feels great. Enjoy it, friends.

Friday, October 13, 2006

Ralphie to Run Rough-shod over Red Raiders?

Friends of the Buffaloes,

Due.

That's the term they use for a team that is, statistically speaking, on the verge of a major tun of events. And that is what our Buffs are now - due. Due for a breakout game by a wide receiver. Due for a game-changing long field goal. Due for a punt return for a TD. Due for a defensive takeaway that produces a touchdown. Due for a 150 rushing day by Hugh Charles. Due for a mistake free performance. Due for victory!

"But Buffalover," you say, "how can the 0-6 Buffs possibly beat Texas Tech who has that prolific passing offense?" Glad you asked. The answer may surprise you - a productive Buff rushing attack. That's right, the Buffs have been running the ball very well and expect that to improve further this week. By doing so, the Buffs will produce long clock-killing drives that keep the Tech offense off of the field. And furthermore, that Buff rush attack will finally start producing TDs. With a Buff lead on the scoreboard, Tech will be pressing and will make mistakes... Abe Wright sacks QB - fumble! Fearsome blitz causes throw to go awry - Terrence Wheatley pick, he's fast, TD! But Tech battles back, gets some points, makes it close. Then Mason Crosby comes in for a game winning, clock expiring 70 yard field goal! Demons vanquished. Buffaloes win. Harmony restored to the Flatirons. Relief.

So that's how it will play out, faithful. Be sure not to miss the moment when karma kicks in. Schlep yourself and the kids out to dear old CU this Saturday. Enjoy tasty food and beverages and savor the flavor of a much deserved Buffalo victory!

Go Buffs!
Buffalover

Monday, October 09, 2006

Buffs & Bears

(From October 5th)

Friends of the Buffaloes,

A very wise man once said... "Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is interesting. What they conceal is vital!" Who was that wise man? Plato.

And if Plato were here today he would surely remark that while the Buffs are currently 0-5, they are the best 0-5 team in the country! At which point Plato would be punched in the face.

But you know what? Our bloody-faced Plato is right. Now I'm not saying that we're a good team. Not a polished product. But I must point out that our boys, in the midst of a rebuilding year, are giving everyone they play a tough time. We are not getting blown out by anyone. And we're actually just a handful of plays away from being 5-0 right now.

Sure we've got our problems, but these Buffs "Never Give In" and neither should you, friends. This week's match-up brings the Baylor Bears to town. These same Bad News Bears beat the Buffs in their last meeting 3 years ago. The good and the bad news is that that game is no longer in the record books as "most embarrassing loss ever." But what's important is that we have an opportunity to avenge that loss and turn around this lousy season by going out and beating the tar out of those guys.

So come on out to campus on Saturday, tailgate wherever it is that you people tailgate these days, rekindle that camaraderie and support your Buffs!

Go Buffs!
Buffalover

Monday, October 02, 2006

Buffs vs Tigers review

0 and 5. Ouch. Well it's been evident since the first game that this could happen. And it has. Let's talk.

Mizzou is a good team. They have a great young quarterback in Chase Daniel and he had a good day against the Buffs - and every other team he's played this year. If the Buffs turn it around, they could contend for the Big XII North title again. But, let's be honest, that's not likely. In which case, I gotta say, I'm now pulling for Mizzou. What's not to like? They wear Black and Gold, Bill McCartney is an alum and they aren't Nebraska. Go Tigers!

So enough stalling, let's talk about the game...

What I liked:

The offense clearly had it's best game of the season. BJax makes solid progress each week which is heartening. Hugh Charles looks like he's got jets strapped to his feet. The line is blocking well even without Mark Fenton (maybe better than with Fenton?). And we're starting to see some vertical passing game - the 68 yarder to Dusty was sweet.

I know that many won't agree but I also like that we're going for it on 4th down. It's not working, of course, but I like the idea. It's that kind of season and we need to take chances and we are. So that's cool.

After struggling early, the D came up with big stops and turnovers (was actually robbed of a 3rd INT they should have had). In general the D is still playing well enough to keep us in games.

What I didn't like :

Though, as noted, the offense has improved and is putting together some good drives... well, they are just not getting it done in key situations. The afore-mentioned 0 and 5 on 4th down is a clear example. And, folks, we aren't much better on 3rd down. Yikes. This trend has to break our way eventually but, damn, it's bad right now.

The special teams are just a mess. Our punt returns are abysmal. The punting and punt coverage isn't much better. Crosby might win us a game this year, but right now we can't even utilize him becasue we just need touchdowns.

And although, as I said, the defense is keeping us in games, the Mizzou game was their worst showing of the season. Sure hope the wheels aren't coming off of that bus.

What's next?:

Ah Baylor. Surely the cure for a team in the midst of a losing streak, right? Whoops, Baylor doesn't suck as much this year. And, oh by the way, last time we played them we lost (3 years ago). Boy, that sure was embarrassing. I mean, not as bad as losing to Montana State but still...

But stick with your Buffs, friends. They are 0-5 and there is a possibility that they might not win a game this year. But I tell you what - this team fights. They have played every game tough. They are bringing it in every game. They have many problems but lack of guts and heart is not one of them. I love them for that. And I'll keep bringing it every week too.

Now, let's take it to those damned Bears!