Marshall Football: Preview of 2011 Herd Recruiting Class

With college footballs signing day just around the corner on February 2nd lets take a look at Marshall’s current verbal commitment list and who else might be joining the Herd this week. I have split the list into three categories, verbal commitments that will qualify, verbal commitments that will not qualify, and free agents (players Marshall is pursuing but have not verbally committed). Here is the list, each player is listed along with a link to their Marshall Thundering Blog profile:

Verbal Commitments that will Qualify:

1. Keith Baxter, DB, Homestead FL

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/08/keith-baxter-commits-to-marshall.html

2. Cortez Carter, LB, Bealeton VA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/07/cortez-carter-links.html

3. Rakeem Cato, QB, Miami FL

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-rakeem-cato-commits.html

4. Blake Frohnapfel, QB, Stafford VA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/07/blake-frohnapfel-commits-to-marshall.html

5. Eric Frohnapfel, TE, Stafford VA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-eric-frohnapfel.html

6. Jermaine Holmes, LB, Valdosta GA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-jermaine-holmes.html

7. Levern Jacobs, WR, District Heights MD

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/marshall-football-levern-jacobs-commits.html

8. *Sebastian Johansson, OL, Sweden via Raceland KY

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/06/sebastian-johansson-verbally-commits-to.html

*Reports have indicated that Johansson is already in Huntington, do not know if he is enrolled at MU.

9. *Conelius Jones, ATH, Spartanburg SC

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-cornelius-jones.html

*Already enrolled at Marshall, eligible for spring practice.

10. Josue Joseph, OL, Orlando FL

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-josue-jospeh-verbally.html

11. *Evan McKelvey, S, Moncks Corner SC

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/marshall-football-evan-mckelvey-commits.html

*Already enrolled at Marshall, eligible for spring practice.

12. Armonze Daniel, LB, Avon IN

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-armonze-daniel.html

13. Robert Mincey, DE, Fairfield OH

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/marshall-football-robert-mincey-commits.html

14. Jarquez Samuel, DE, Valdosta GA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-jarquez-samuel.html

15. Tommy Shuler, WR, Miami FL

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/08/tommy-shuler-commits-to-marshall.html

16. Anthony Spano, OL, Naples FL

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/08
/marshall-football-ol-anthony-spano.html

17. Remi Watson, RB, Lakeland FL

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-remi-watson-verbally.html

18. Deontae West, DB. Hialeah FL

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Deontae-West-116584;_ylt=AlSorTDKPKy6bZUs1RxEGqTZsZB4

19. Craig Wilkins, WR Hialeah FL

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-craig-wilkins.html

20. Corie Wilson, DB, Miami FL

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Corie-Wilson-114201;_ylt=ArPHK1npQ9QDA4j9k1L4RjbZsZB4

21. Joe Massaqui, DE, Alexandria VA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-joe-massaquoi.html

22. *Trenton Martin, K, Virginia Beach VA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-trenton-martin.html

*Walk On.

23. *Travon Van, RB, New Berlin NY

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Travon-Van-99836

*Already enrolled at Marshall, eligible for spring practice.

24. *Raheem Waiters, WR, Belle WV

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Raheem-Waiters-99776

*Already enrolled at Marshall, eligible for spring practice.

25. *Darien Moody, DE, Gahanna OH

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Darien-Moody-94928;_ylt=AjWWNm.ILo0FJDX8l9ALNwvZsZB4

*Already enrolled at Marshall, eligible for spring practice.

26. *Austin Dumas, P, Bradenton FL

*Walk on.

27. *Tevin McCleave, ATH, Stafford VA

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/colonial-forge-sends-another-football.html

*Walk on

- 23 players on the list above should ink letters on intent with Marshall on February 2nd and be eligible for practice in August. I have left Martin (walk on), McCleave (walk on), Dumas (walk on) and Johansson (possible eligibility issue) off my list of 23.

Verbal Commitments that will not Qualify:

1. Deon Meadows, LB, Smyrna TN

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/marshall-football-deon-meadows-verbally.html

2. *Stefone Grace, LB, New Berlin NY

Rivlas.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Stefone-Grace-118020;_ylt=Avj0lmvCrC.3V_kI9be.vp3ZsZB4

*Please note that Grace is already on campus but will not participate in spring practice.

3. Jamar Lewter, OL, Washington DC

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/jamar-lewter-commits-to-marshall.html

4. DeAndre Reaves, RB, Sterling VA

http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-deandre-reaves.html

5. *Rakim Reed, TE, Canton OH

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/marshall-football-rakim-reed-commits-to.html

*Grey Shirt, will be eligible for spring practice 2012.

6.* Chris Alston, WR, Winnsboro SC

MTB Profile: http://marshallthunderingblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/marshall-football-christopher-alston.html

*Grey Shirt, will be eligible for spring practice 2012.

- Marshall will have 3 props on campus, Lewter, Reaves, and Meadows. Grace is on campus but not part of the football team at this time. Reed will enrollee at Marshall in the spring semester of 2012, same with Alston.

Free Agents (players Marshall is still pursuing)

1. Chevelle Buie, RB, Cocoa FL

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Chevelle-Buie-100090

2. Allan Wasonga, RB, Parkersburg WV

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Allan-Wasonga-84981

3. Davonte Allen, WR, Belle Glade FL

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Davonte-Allen-99970

4. Robert Way, LB, Belle Galde FL

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Robert-Way-109238

5. Colin Munro, OL, Rancho Cucamonga CA (JUCO)

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Colin-Munro-119027

6. *Pierria Henry, WR, South Charleston WV

Rivals.com Profile http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/basketball/recruiting/player-Pierria-Henry-82983

* Football and Basketball recruit that would count against football scholarship limit.

7. Javad Gaines, DE, Hackensack NJ

Rivals.com Profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Javard-Gaines-114770

8. *Clinton Van Horn, OL, Beckley WV

*Preferred walk on?

Coach Holiday is hoping a few players from the list above pledge Marshall on February 2nd.

*If you see any thing above that does not make sense please post a comment in the comments section*

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/31/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Raucous hoops crowd just what Doc ordered

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101301194

From the Charleston Gazette, NO Pierria Henry commit (yet)

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/30/no-pierria-henry-commit-yet/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: C-USA is ''going to be a wild race''

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101301061

From the Herald Dispatch, Memphis win a ‘Marshall Moment’

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2071550035/Memphis-win-a-Marshall-Moment

From the Herald Dispatch, MU blanks Dartmouth in tennis tournament

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1678956664/MU-blanks-Dartmouth-in-tennis-tournament

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall women turn game over to UAB, 74-46

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1678956682/Marshall-women-turn-game-over-to-UAB-74-46

Colonial Forge Sends Another Football Player to Marshall

According to the Fredericksburg Free Lance Star former Colonial Forge High School (VA) football player Tevin McCleave has enrolled at Marshall and has accepted a preferred walk-on spot. Colonial Forge is the home of 2011 Marshall verbal commitments Blake and Eric Frohnapfel.

McCleave graduated from Colonial Forge last year and spent this past semester at Jireh Prep School in Monroe, N.C. According to the article McCleave, who projects corner, safety, or slot reciver, had scholarship offers from Johnson C. Smith, Shepherd (W.Va.) and Old Dominion.

For more on McCleave follow the links below:

Fredericksburg Free Lance Star article:
http://www.fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2011/012011/01272011/602853

MaxPreps.com profile:
http://www.maxpreps.com/athletes/X1RZvRIHdUaGbzJNJiOlgQ/football-fall-09/profiletevin-mccleave.htm

BeRecruited.com profile: http://profiles.berecruited.com/athletes/333648

YouTube Video (1): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoOSfzvJca4

YouTube.com Video (2): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4Sx-dv1fK0

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/28/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Memphis-UCF game, Big East

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/27/memphis-ucf-game-big-east/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Droughts continue to hurt Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101271468

From the Herald Dispatch, Midland names Salmons football coach

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2071549754/Midland-names-Salmons-football-coach

From the Herald Dispatch, C-USA schedule gets more friendly

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1627095462/C-USA-schedule-gets-more-friendly-for-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women drop fifth straight

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2071549772/MU-women-drop-fifth-straight

Marshall Thundering Blog Joins Facebook

The Marshall Thundering Blog has joined Facebook. Become a fan of our page by clicking the link below:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marshall-Thundering-Blog/176972802344461?v=page_getting_started#!/pages/Marshall-Thundering-Blog/176972802344461?v=wall

Long Runs Continue to Hurt Herd Basketball

As a primer for yesterdays men’s basketball game at UAB, Chuck McGill wrote an article detailing Marshall’s inability to stop opposing teams long scoring runs. Well you might as well call McGill Nostradamus, Marshall was up 48 – 38 with 7:14 left last night before UAB went on a 16-1 run over 4-minutes and 34-seconds. The end result, a 60 – 56 UAB win. UAB’s long run coincides with a number of other Marshall break downs this season:

From Chuck McGill’s Wendesday article: http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101251277

* On Jan. 5 against Donnie Jones (the Herd's former coach) and UCF, Marshall led 42-36 with 11:39 left of the second half. The Knights, who have lost four consecutive games since the Herd left town, went on a 16-4 run over the next 6:35 to pull ahead by six points.

* On Jan. 15 at Memphis, Marshall tied the game at 15 before the Tigers took off on a 20-0 run that lasted 5:48. MU ultimately lost by 16 points, so Herrion's Herd actually outscored Memphis in the other 34-plus minutes.

* On Saturday against East Carolina, Marshall squandered a 15-point lead in a game it didn't trail until the final five seconds. With 5:30 to play and the Herd up 75-65, ECU took control with a 17-6 run that included the Pirates scoring the final eight points of an 82-81 win.

If the Herd wants to have a productive season it must figure out how to play all 40 minutes.

Lee Smith at the Senior Bowl, Day 3

Notes from yesterdays Senior Bowl practice mentioning Lee Smith:

It's not a good tight end class so there are a lot of opportunities this year for an under-the-radar guy to move up over the next few months and come off the board higher than anticipated as opposed to a year with a deeper tight end class. Don't be surprised if Marshall TE Lee Smith emerges as one of those guys. In a class that features many undersized H-back/WR types, Smith, at 6-5 7/8 and 269 pounds, has prototypical NFL tight end size. He does an average to good job of blocking. He can improve his footwork, but when he locks on he's strong enough to sustain the block. Tennessee's Luke Stocker is the best blocking tight end, but Smith isn't far behind.

The biggest problem with Smith's game is that he doesn't have the top-end speed to stretch the field and he's not explosive enough getting in and out of breaks. But I do think he has enough quickness and body control to separate as a short-to-intermediate target in the passing game. The thing that jumped out to me more than anything this week is that he has such good hands. He can adjust to the ball below his waist, which a lot of big tight ends struggle to do. We saw him catch the ball over his head and also adjust to poorly thrown balls away from his frame. Most importantly for the position, he has strong hands in traffic.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft2011/notebook?page=seniorbowl0126&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnfl%2fdraft2011%2fnotebook%3fpage%3dseniorbowl0126

TE Lee Smith, Marshall: We knew he’d be a blocker. He also showed the same good hands in the short game that was there on film. But Smith doesn’t do anything after the catch. Although bigger and stronger than a recent draft pick like Dennis Pitta, he is much like the Ravens rookie because he doesn’t do much after the catch.

http://fifthdown.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/01/27/senior-bowl-day-3-risers-fallers-and-steady-as-they-go/

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/27/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Legursky eager to earn ring

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101261527

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd lets another slip away

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101261529

From the Charleston Gazette, UAB Game From the Hometown Angle

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/27/uab-game-from-hometown-angle/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall squanders lead in losing to UAB

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101261522

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall falls late to UAB, 60-56

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1728023777/Marshall-falls-late-to-UAB-60-56

From the Herald Dispatch, Mario Harvey to Participate in Texas vs. The Nation All-Star Game

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1728023771/Harvey-bulks-up-for-game-on-Feb-5

From the Herald Dispatch, McCurdy joins MU baseball as volunteer assistant coach

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1728023781/McCurdy-joins-MU-baseball-as-volunteer-assistant-coach

From the Herald Dispatch, Bennett returns to MU as head strength, conditioning coach

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1728023779/Bennett-returns-to-MU-as-head-strength-conditioning-coach

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall women to host Memphis

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1728023783/Marshall-women-to-host-Memphis

JaJuan Seider Visiting Glades Central High School Today

Marshall football recruiting coordinator JaJuan Seider knows how to get after it. Palm Beach Post writer Jeff Greer is reporting via twitter that Seider is visiting his alma-mater Glades Central High School today. This is significant for two reasons. One, reports indicate that Central, which produces division one football talent at a alarming rate, has hired Roosevelt Blackmon as their new football coach. Two, Marshall is recruiting two three star prospects (Rivals.com) from Central, wide receiver Davonte Allen and linebacker Robert Way.

Lets hope that Seider and Blackmon start a productive relationship while Allen and Way decided to spend the next four years at Marshall.

Links used to compile this story:

Palm Beach Post, Glade Central hires Roosevelt Blackmon, http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/highschoolbuzz/2011/01/25/glades-central-has-its-new-coach-will-announce-hire-in-coming-days/

Jeff Greer’s twitter account: http://twitter.com/#!/jeffgreer

Davonte Allen Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Davonte-Allen-99970

Robert Way Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Robert-Way-109238

Marshall Thundering Blog Joins Facebook

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Marshall Football: Devon Johnson Verbally Commits to Herd

2012 recruiting prospect Devon Johnson, a 6’2, 209 pound linebacker for Richlands High School (VA) has verbally committed to Marshall. Although this time of year is know for seniors making their college decisions Johnson, a junior, has decided to get ahead of the game and pledge Marshall before his senior year.

Although Johnson will play linebacker at the colligate level his offensive skills at running back got him recognized this season. The Bluefield Daily Telegraph named Johnson their player of the year after he rushed for 1,376 yards and 23 touchdowns. Johnson is rated a three star prospect by Rivals.com and also has been offered by Virginia.

For more on Johnson follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Devon-Johnson-115480;_ylt=AomnX9JFOfx9gSp8fMqxhuzZsZB4

Scout.com profile: http://rutgers.scout.com/a.z?s=183&p=8&c=1&nid=5298520

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=116760&_slug_=devon-johnson&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d116760%26_slug_%3ddevon-johnson

Bluefield Daily Telegraph, Devon Johnson POTY: http://bdtonline.com/localsports/x1894467835/Johnson-plays-hard-for-Blues

Bluefield Daily Telegraph, Johnson runs with purpose: http://www2.tricities.com/sports/2010/nov/04/prep-football-richlands-star-devon-johnson-runs-pu-ar-632751/

YouTube.com, Richlands vs Poquson, 2010 VA State Championship highlights (Johnson is #44 in blue): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKBca5Nq63Y

Erik Vint Continues Playing Career

Erik Vint, a backup offensive lineman at Marshall from 2006 - 2010 has been added to the Huntington Hammer training camp roster. Although he never saw much playing time at Marshall Vint excelled in the class room, double-majoring in biology and chemistry with a math minor. Vint will finish up his studies for a masters degree in chemistry while trying to crack the Hammer roster.

Erik Vint Marshall profile: http://herdzone.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/vint_erik00.html

1/25 UIFL transaction report: http://theuifl.com/archives/714

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/26/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd visits reloaded UAB tonight

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101251464

From the Charleston Gazette, MWC: We’re standing pat

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/25/mwc-were-standing-pat/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Long runs have hurt Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101251277

From the Herald Dispatch, MU on the road at UAB

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x885065227/MU-on-the-road-at-UAB

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Herd wins, losses send fans on a bumpy ride

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x247178541/Herd-wins-losses-send-fans-on-a-bumpy-ride

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd swim team lands local athlete

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x247178545/Herd-swim-team-lands-local-athlete

Lee Smith at the Senior Bowl (UPDATE)

Former Marshall tight end Lee Smith is getting more recognition at the Senior Bowl:

From the Dallas Morning News: http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2011/01/tuesday-morning-at-the-senior.html

Lee Smith, a tight end from Marshall, is a powerful blocker. Smith ran over a series of linebackers in drills. According to Senior Bowl measurements, Smith is 6 feet 51/2 and 269 pounds.

From the National Football Post:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Senior-Bowl-practice-notes-Day-2.html

He’s not going to run real well and lacks the ability to consistently separate in man coverage, but Marshall tight end Lee Smith can really get after it in the run game. Smith was able to dominate at the point of attack today during run drills, pancaking Oregon LB Casey Matthews on one occasion and destroying Ohio State’s Ross Homan on the other. He has a solid first step, gets out of his stance quickly and doesn’t waste any motion unloading his strong punch into contact. Looks like a solid reserve-type tight end who will play for eight-plus years in the NFL.

From NFLMocks.com:
http://nflmocks.com/2011/01/25/senior-bowl-day-2-north-squad-practice-notes/

Tight end Lee Smith of Marshall looked good on the field today. At just a fraction of an inch under 6-foot-6, Smith is a big, reliable target. He isn’t the fastest or most explosive guy out there, but he makes every catch with his hands. He got to showcase his talents even more with the constant checkdowns courtesy of Locker and Stanzi.

Lee Smith at the Senior Bowl

Marshall University tight end Lee Smith is participating in this Saturday’s Senior Bowl. The Senior Bowl is a show case for college seniors and underclassman who have declared for the draft. Although Saturday’s senior Bowl game is very important the week of practice leading up to it is equally significant.

Scout.com has staff reporters blogging live from each practice session. Early in Tuesday’s AM practice Smith stood out:

ScoutNFL:
Marshall TE Lee Smith made a great one handed catch on a pass from Ricky Stanzi
(http://profootball.scout.com/2/1042441.html)

The Marshall Thundering Blog will be following Smith's progress in practice all week, check back for updates.

Luke Salmons to Lead Cabell Midland Football

Former Marshall offensive lineman Luke Salmons has accepted the head football coaching position at Cabell Midland High School (WV). Salmons, a all MAC first team selection at MU, had spent the last three season as Lawrence County’s (KY) head football coach. After going 0-11 in 2008, Salmons lead Lawrence County to a 12-1 record in 2009 and was named Kentucky 4A football coach of the year. This past season Lawrence County accumulated a record of 8 – 3.

In related news, Salmons was previously announced as the Huntington Hammer’s (Huntington’s new indoor football franchise) inaugural head coach but will not be keeping that commitment. The Hammer have announced a new head coach, Josh Resignalo.

Former MU Punter Chris Hanson gets HS Coaching Job

Former Marshall and NFL punter Chris Hanson will be Trinity Christian School’s (GA) head football coach in 2011. Hanson spent his first season out of the NFL at Heritage High School (GA) as special teams coordinator and strength coach. The former Marshall punter will help Trinity transition from 8 man football to traditional 11 on 11.

In a article by the Newnan Times-Herald, Hanson had this to say about his new position:

"I really believe throughout my NFL career, God was preparing me to be a coach," Hanson said. "Because I had been around so many different coaches. I've seen how they've affected men's lives. It's all about creating relationships."

For many more details about Hanson’s new job read the entire Times Herald article here:
http://www.times-herald.com/sports/Hanson-takes-reins-of-Trinity-football-program-as-head-coach-1504962

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/25/11

From the Charleston Gazette, C-USA players of the week

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/24/c-usa-players-of-the-week/

From the Herald Dispatch, C-USA teams rising up for wins

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x885065139/C-USA-teams-rising-up-for-wins

From the Herald Dispatch, Brandon King, Derrick Campbell no longer part of 2011 recruiting class

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x247178247/Prospects-come-and-go-for-Marshall

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall Wide Receivers coach Zach Smith leaves for Temple

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x247178245/MU-coach-Smith-leaves-for-Temple

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Arrogant UCF no lock for Big East

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x247178241/Arrogant-UCF-no-lock-for-Big-East

Congratulations Byron Leftwich & Doug Legursky!

Congratulations to former Marshall stars Byron Leftwich and Doug Legursky for winning the AFC Championship game in Pittsburgh last night. Both players will represent Pittsburgh in the Super Bowl two weeks from yesterday.

Legursky played extensively in the championship game, subbing in for injured Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey. Pittsburgh’s offensive line played well yesterday, raking up 287 yards of offense against a tough Jets defense.

Marshall Football: Rakim Reed Commits to Herd

Rakim Reed, a 6’4, 210 pound tight end from Timken Senior High School (OH) has committed to Marshall. Reed will grey shirt (enrollee at MU in the fall but will not join the football team until spring practice 2012) and is technically part of the 2012 recruiting class. A three star prospect according to Rivals.com, Reed also had offers from Pittsburgh and Buffalo. He is currently playing on Timken’s basketball team and is a major force in the post. For more on Reed follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Rakim-Reed-105819

Scout.com profile: http://westvirginia.scout.com/a.z?s=159&p=8&c=1&nid=4734674

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=103966&_slug_=rakim-reed&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d103966%26_slug_%3drakim-reed

ScoutingOhio.com profile (video): http://www.scoutingohio.com/index.php/view-profile.html?task=userProfile&user=3665

YouTube Video (1): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZTAV2wtZK0

YouTube.com Video (2): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0fwRhYcgsc&feature=related

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/24/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Snyder didn't get what he needed in '06

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101231752

From the Charleston Gazette, Whole bunch of post-Herd-ECU thoughts

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/23/whole-bunch-of-post-herd-ecu-thoughts/

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd Football Recruit Deon Meadows wins Player of the Year Award

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/23/award-for-deon-meadows/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Frohnapfel changes commitment from WVU to Marshall

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101231652

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Herrion not pleased with defensive effort in loss to ECU

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101231668

From the Herald Dispatch, Brothers commit to play for Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2103345250/Brothers-commit-to-play-for-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd readies for tough task this week

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2103345248/Herd-readies-for-tough-task-this-week

From Herald Dispatch, Herd defeats Kentucky for 4-0 mark in women's tennis

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2103345238/Herd-defeats-Kentucky-for-4-0-mark-in-womens-tennis
From the Herald Dispatch, Central Florida knocks off Marshall women, 68-40

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2103345240/Central-Florida-knocks-off-Marshall-women-68-40

Marshall Football: Eric Frohnapfel Verbally Commits to Herd

After visiting Marshall this past weekend former WVU commitment Eric Frohnapfel has de-committed from the Mountaineers and will spend his college years in Huntington. Eric, a 6'6, 210 pound tight end from Colonial Forge High School (VA) is the twin brother of fellow Marshall verbal commitment Blake Frohnapfel (QB).

This past season Eric caught 28 passes for 641 yards and 9 touchdowns. He is also known as an accomplished blocker. For his standout senior season Eric was named a Washington Post All - Metropolitan first team player.

Eric recently re-opened his recruitment after WVU named Dana Holgorsen their head coach in waiting. Holgorsen, a offensive coordinator from Oklahoma State, does not feature a tight end in his offense. Eric, a three star prospect according to Rivals.com, also had offers from Virginia and Miami Ohio.

For more on Eric follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/westvirginia/football/recruiting/player-Eric-Frohnapfel-107444

Scout.com profile: http://washington.scout.com/a.z?s=147&p=8&c=1&nid=5076577

ESPN.com Profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=112901&_slug_=eric-frohnapfel&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d112901%26_slug_%3deric-frohnapfel

Washington Post All-Met first team list: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/highschools/all-met/2010/fall/football/offense/

YouTube.com video (1): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zu_5z6wdGi0

YouTube.com video (2): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyNKhVimKtc

Marshall Football: Jermaine Holmes Verbally Commits to Herd

Chip Towers, a University of Georgia recruiting reporter at the Atlanta Constitution Journal, tweeted yesterday that Valdosta High School (GA) linebacker Jermaine Holmes has verbally committed to Marshall. Holmes, standing in at 5’11, 230 pounds, is rated a three star prospect by Rivals.com. He also had offers from Illinois, Louisville, and Central Florida.

This past season Holmes was a second-team All-State linebacker. He made 67 tackles (47 solo), had 15 sacks/tackles for loss, forced two fumbles, recovered two fumbles and had three pass breakups. Those impressive numbers earned him the Region 1-AAAAA Defensive Player of the Year award. Holmes is teammates with fellow Valdosta standout and Marshall commitment Jarquez Samuel. For more on Holmes follow the links below:

Various tweets on Holmes commitment: http://search.twitter.com/search?q=Jermaine+Holmes

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Jermaine-Holmes-104100

Scout.com profile: http://georgia.scout.com/a.z?s=135&p=8&c=1&nid=4643432

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/ncf/recruiting/player?id=109388&_slug_=jermaine-holmes&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fncf%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d109388%26_slug_%3djermaine-holmes

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/21/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Classic ramifications for Marshall, West Virginia

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101201686

From the Charleston Gazette, Baines led charge against WVU

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101201688

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd could get Frohnapfel twins

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101201512

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Herd still has work to do

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101201477

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Luck: Play The Game

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/01/20/luck-play-the-game/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, A double dose of Frohnapfel coming to Huntington

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/01/21/a-double-dose-of-frohnapfel-coming-to-huntington/

From the Herald Dispatch, Remi Watson bolsters MU backfield

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1428696282/Fla-commitment-bolsters-MU-backfield

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd spanks ranked WVU

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1428696280/Herd-spanks-ranked-WVU

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: WVU gives Herd better chance by acting elite

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1428696276/WVU-gives-Herd-better-chance-by-acting-elite

YouTube: Marshall University: Capital Classic 2011

Marshall AD Mike Hamrick Addresses Herd Fans in Email

Marshall athletic director Mike Hamrick sent an email to Herd fans after last nights Capitol Classic victory. If you did not receive it you can see the letter below:

Dear Herd Fans,

I want to thank everyone who was in the Charleston Civic Center last night, wearing green and cheering on our men's basketball team to victory. Thank you for being there. Thank you for your loud, enthusiastic support.

However, I would like to say I was surprised that more of our fans were not there. Quite frankly, I am puzzled by the large number of fans from WVU that seem to be sitting in the Marshall sections. If you have tickets in those sections, we would prefer you not to give those away to friends from the other school. We want you to be there. The building is supposed to be divided evenly. For future Capital Classic games, we need to have the building half-full of fans wearing green and white.

The same situation is true next fall in football when we play in Morgantown. We need Marshall Fans to be there. We need you to be loud, supportive of our team, and to have an impact on the game. Put it on your calendar. Let's all plan on being in Morgantown for that first football game on Sept. 3rd.

In basketball, our team played their hearts out in Charleston on Wednesday night. Our players and our coaches overcame some incredible adversity. We suffered injuries. We had many players in foul trouble. Yet, we persevered. We need our fans to persevere also. We have several big home games coming up, including this Saturday night against East Carolina. We need you in the building and we need you to be loud and involved. You will also be helping out Coach Holliday and our football staff by being there. This is a big weekend for them also.

Finally, I want to praise Tom Herrion and his staff for doing an incredible coaching job on Wednesday night. I also want to praise our students for their incredible support. For the WVU game, our students have to pay for their tickets. They do not receive free tickets for that game. Yet, they were there and they were a factor in the game. Their enthusiasm gave me goose bumps at many times during the game.

Thanks for your continued support of our program. The future is very bright. Make sure you are in the Henderson Center for all of our remaining home games.

Go Herd,
Mike Hamrick

Our athletic director makes a good point. Lets all as Marshall fans make a commitment not only to buy tickets (FROM MARSHALL) for next seasons football game in Morgantown but for all Herd athletic events. As Hamrick said make sure your butt is in those seats once the game begins, not opposing team fans.

Marshall Earns More Nationals Publicity

Accolades keep on rolling in from the national media with last nights win over WVU.

Eric Prisbell runs a blog dedicated to bracketology and the NCAA men’s D1 basketball tournament for the Washington Post. In a post titled “What mattered Wednesday”, Marshall’s upset win over WVU was number 1:

1) Marshall 75, West Virginia 71: Marshall is 13-5 and this was not much of a damaging loss from an RPI standpoint. But it's a significant win for first-year coach Tom Herrion, the former Pittsburgh assistant. Marshall had lost four straight against its in-state rival. Damier Pitts, who scored 25 points, said, "Either you go to West Virginia and you don't like Marshall or you go to Marshall and you don't like West Virginia."

Click here to view the blog: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/the68/2011/01/marshall_earns_upset_over_west.html

ESPN's Pat Forde, Fan of MU – WVU Rivalry

ESPN college football and basketball analysis Pat Forde posted a great tweet on his tweeter account about last nights Capitol Classic:

Marshall-WVU defines a great rivalry. Marshall routinely plays over its head against 'Eers in football and basketball. Tonight case in point.

4 minutes ago via web

Nice to see the national media taking notice of a great mountain state tradition. Lets hope that WVU AD Oliver Luck does not ruin the football series.

Forde’s twitter account can be found here: http://twitter.com/espn4d

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/20/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Classic shocker

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101191516

From the Charleston Gazette, Herrion wakes up the ghost of Jirsa past

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101191521

From the Charleston Gazette, Capital Classic notes: Herd survived and thrived despite foul trouble

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101191495

From the Charleston Gazette, No contest

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101191459

From the Charleston Gazette, Midnight Herd-WVU thoughts

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/20/midnight-herd-wvu-thoughts/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Huggins tells media to blow whistles on refs

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201101200077

From the Charleston Daily Mail, It's not pretty, but Herd wins

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101200075

From the Charleston Daily Mail, No. 9 WVU rolls to record-breaking win

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101200105

From the Charleston Daily Mail, No Pitts stops for WVU; Herd survives foul night

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101200090

From the Charleston Daily Mail, A glimpse at the Classic and Facebook

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/01/20/a-glimpse-at-the-classic-and-facebook/

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd hangs on for upset

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731976034/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Pitts digs deep in MU win

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731976036/Pitts-digs-deep-in-MU-win

From the Herald Dispatch, No. 9 West Virginia routs MU women, 78-21

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1052105379/No-9-West-Virginia-routs-MU-women-78-21

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Embracing past games key to win

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731976032/Embracing-past-games-key-to-win

Chesapeake Energy Capital Classic on ESPN3.com Tonight

For Herd fans outside of West Virginia tonight’s Capital Classic basketball game between Marshall and WVU can be viewed online at ESPN3.com (link below). Tip off is at 8pm. Go Herd!

Link: http://espn.go.com/espn3/

Marshall Basketball: Jamir Hanner Shines at Adidas MLK Classic in Huntington

Jamir Hanner, a member of Tom Herrion’s 2011 recruiting class, was in Huntington to take part in the Adidas MLK Classic Monday. Hanner lead his Notre Dame Prep (MA) squad against the University of Rio Grande’s junior varsity team at Veterans Memorial Field House. A 6’8, 200 pound forward Hanner, scored 23 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in front of a crowd that included Marshall University head coach Tom Herrion and his staff.

For a full report on the game follow this link: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731975558/Stars-shine-for-holiday-basketball

Chad Pennington to Return Next Season

Former Marshall University quarterback Chad Pennington is back on the comeback trail. A shoulder injury ended Pennington's 2009 season in Week 3. He began the 2010 season as a backup, made his season debut when he started against Tennessee (Week 10) but had to leave the game after only two snaps with a dislocated shoulder and torn capsule. Pennington had his forth shoulder surgery shortly after the injury and has recently decided to attempt another comeback in 2011.

For the full story check this Associated Press article: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5956106/Pennington-still-wanting-to-play-after-4th-surgery

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/19/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Energy and emotion

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101181422

From the Charleston Gazette, Breaking down what should be another classic

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101181448

From the Charleston Gazette, WVU notes: Butler to drop in one more time

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101181459

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd notes: Sidelines come alive

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101181458

From the Charleston Gazette, WVU women heavy favorite

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101181442

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Poor shooting has been a trend in Classic

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201101181325

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: For Herd, an opportunity to make statement

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201101181342

From the Charleston Daily Mail, WVU basketball: No. 21 Mountaineers look to keep win streaks alive

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201101181314

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Herrion is familiar with WVU

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101181300

From the Herald Dispatch, Kane ready for the rivalry

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5956100/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Reds' Brennaman is guest speaker

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5956102/Reds-Brennaman-is-guest-speaker

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Victor in MU-WVU game gives no quarter

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x5956096/Victor-in-MU-WVU-game-gives-no-quarter

From the Herald Dispatch, Women's game at 5:30 p.m.

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x5956104/Womens-game-at-5-30-p-m

Marshall Football: Jarquez Samuel Verbally Commits to Herd

Jarquez Samuel, a 6'5, 240 pound defensive end from Valdosta High School (GA) has committed to Marshall. Samuel is rated a three star prospect by Rivals.com and also had scholarship offers from LSU, Louisville, and WVU. For more on Samuel follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/player-Jarquez-Samuel-104105

Scout.com profile: http://recruiting.scout.com/a.z?s=73&p=8&c=1&nid=3981130

Herald Dispatch article on his commitment: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731975562/Holliday-recruits-more-than-Florida

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=102567&_slug_=jarquez-samuel&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d102567%26_slug_%3djarquez-samuel

ESPN.com Video: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player/videos?id=102567&_slug_=jarquez-samuel&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%2fvideos%3fid%3d102567%26_slug_%3djarquez-samuel

Marshall Football: Remi Watson Verbally Commits to Herd

Remi Watson, a 5'11, 195 pound running back from Lake Gibson High School (FL) has verbally committed to Marshall. During his senior season Watson rushed for over 1,616 yards and 16 touchdowns. He was also The Ledger (Lakeland FL newspaper) player of the year as a junior (1,410 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns / 314 receiving yards and 6 TD's). Before last football season Watson was arrested for his part in a armed robbery but was later cleared of all charges. For more on Watson follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ucf/football/recruiting/player-Remi-Watson-105373

Scout.com profile: http://floridastate.scout.com/a.z?s=16&p=8&c=1&nid=4745875

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=85489&_slug_=remi-watson&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d85489%26_slug_%3dremi-watson

Article on Watson's armed robbery arrest and charge dismissal: http://www.theledger.com/article/20100527/news/5275069

YouTube.com Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuWb9TblfsI

Today's Marshall Sports News, 1/18/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd needs major rebound vs. WVU

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101171471

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Herd has some concerns after loss

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101161543

From the Charleston Daily Mail, WVU-Marshall women's game can have higher attendance

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101171245

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd adds recruits to 2011 class

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101171240

From the Herald Dispatch, Holliday recruits more than Florida

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731975562/Holliday-recruits-more-than-Florida

From the Herald Dispatch, Herrion knows West Virginia

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731975560/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Baines gets last chance to beat WVU

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1731975554/Baines-gets-last-chance-to-beat-WVU

Marshall Football: Armonze Daniel Verbally Commits to Herd

Armonze Daniel, a 6'4, 225 pound linebacker from Avon High School (IN) has verbally committed to Marshall. Rated the 15th best outside linebacker prospect by rivals.com Daniel also had offers from Purdue, Iowa State, and Cincinnati. According to a Herald Dispatch story Daniel will qualify academically and was impressed with Marshall's HELP program during his official visit this past weekend. For more on Daniel follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/illinois/football/recruiting/player-Armonze-Daniel-105459

Scout.com profile: http://preps.scout.com/a.z?s=225&p=8&c=1&nid=4638577

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=89366&_slug_=armonze-daniel&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d89366%26_slug_%3darmonze-daniel

Herald Dispatch article on commitment: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/homepage/x1731975174/MU-lands-verbal-from-highly-rated-recruit

YouTube.com video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vj5rRWyF5tw

Marshall Football: Joe Massaquoi Verbally Commits to Herd

Joe Massaquoi, a 6'6 230 pound defensive end from T.C Williams High School (VA) has verbally committed to Marshall. This past season Massaquoi registered 19 tackles, one sack and seven quarterback hurries in four games for T.C Williams. He missed the second half of the season after partially tearing his medial collateral ligament (left knee). The injury did not require surgery and Massaquoi currently plays for T.C Williams basketball team. For more on the big defensive end click the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Joe-Massaquoi-108529

Scout.com profile: http://hswashington.scout.com/a.z?s=230&p=8&c=1&nid=5332427

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/ncf/recruiting/player?id=126963&_slug_=joe-massaquoi&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fncf%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d126963%26_slug_%3djoe-massaquoi

Washington Post story on commitment: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/recruitinginsider/2011/01/tc_williams_massaquoi_commits.html?wprss=recruitinginsider

Washington Post "Recruting Spotlight" video: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video/2010/09/20/VI2010092001858.html

C-USA Notes: Southern Miss losses D-Coordinator

According to the Biloxi Sun Herald Southern Mississippi defensive coordinator Todd Bradford is leaving the C-USA school to coach linebackers at Maryland.

Read a full report here: http://www.sunherald.com/2011/01/16/2781485/bradford-leaves-southern-miss.html#

Marshall Basketball: Memphis’s Wesley Witherspoon Suspended

On Saturday Marshall travels to take on Memphis who will be down a all preseason C-USA player. 6’9 junior forward Wesley Witherspoon, who was averaging over 25 minutes, 11.5 points, and 4.9 rebounds per game was suspended indefinitely by Tigers coach Josh Pastner Thursday. Witherspoon had recently lost his starting spot to sophomore D.J. Stephens but was still playing heavy minutes off the bench.

For the whole story read this Memphis Commercial Appeal article: http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/jan/13/university-memphis-junior-wesley-witherspoon-indef/

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/14/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Incentive times 2

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101131539

From the Charleston Gazette, Memphis licking its wounds

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/13/memphis-licking-its-wounds/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd's Holliday welcomes football recruits

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101131362

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Memphis game begins critical stretch for Marshall men

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101131355

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd hot for Memphis

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x682443407/Herd-hot-for-Memphis

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd women fall at Rice

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5954810/Herd-women-fall-at-Rice

Random Notes

Central Florida Future (UCF student newspaper) sports editor Erika Esola thinks Conference USA is an “embarrassment” to the Knights athletic department:

http://www.centralfloridafuture.com/expansion-crunch-time-ucf-is-the-best-fit-for-big-east-1.2431124

Incoming Marshall baseball pitcher Joe Hollowell is featured in a Eastern Arizona Courier story:

http://www.eacourier.com/articles/2011/01/12/sports/doc4d2caec340592342120206.txt

C-USA Basketball Round Up, Last Nights Action

Yesterday we previewed each C-USA basketball game scheduled for 1/12/11, how did they turn out?

In a stunning upset Marshall’s Saturday opponent Memphis (12-4, 1-1) lost to SMU (10-7, 1-1) 64 - 58 on the road.

Southern Mississippi (13-3, 2-1) got back on track at Rice (8-9, 0-3) with a 81 – 78 overtime win.

UTEP (14-4, 2-1) handed Tulane (12-4, 2-1) its first conference loss with a 69-58 win in New Orleans.

In the C-USA’s lone out of conference match up Tulsa (8-8, 1-1) fell to Arizona State (9-7, 1-1) 69 - 59 in Tempe.

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/13/11

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Eustachy, Southern Miss AD react to ejection

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/01/12/eustachy-southern-miss-ad-react-to-ejection/

From the Herald Dispatch, Baines puts Marshall in elite company

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5954492/Baines-1-000-points-puts-Marshall-in-elite-company

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: With a nip and a tuck, Doc works his magic

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5954490/Chuck-Landon-With-a-nip-and-a-tuck-Doc-works-his-magic

From the Herald Dispatch, Rice up next for Marshall women

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5954496/Rice-up-next-for-Marshall-women

From the Herald Dispatch, Southern Miss coach issues an apology

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5954488/Southern-Miss-coach-issues-an-apology

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women's tennis kicks off spring schedule Friday

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5954494/MU-womens-tennis-kicks-off-spring-schedule-Friday

Conference USA Basketball Tonight

Even though Marshall is taking Wednesday off, the rest of C-USA is set for an interesting slate of games tonight.

ECU (8-7, 0-1) and UAB (11-3, 1-0) were scheduled to tip off in Greenville at 7pm but a massive snow storm has postponed the game.

Marshall’s next opponent Memphis (12 – 3, 1-0), will be in Dallas against SMU (9-7, 0 -1). Memphis is coming off a 3 point win over ECU while SMU dropped its C-USA opener to Tulane.

Coming off a 30 point loss in Huntington Southern Mississippi (12 – 3, 1-1) returns to action at Rice (8-8, 0-2).

Tulane (12-3, 2-0) will try to keep its unbeaten record in conference play alive against UTEP (13-4, 1-1)

Tulsa (8-7, 1-1) plays the only out of conference game, traveling to face PAC-10 member Arizona State (8-7, 1-1)

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/12/11

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Injury-riddled Herd plays on

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101111250

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall rests for Memphis

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x5954096/Marshall-rests-for-Memphis

C-USA Notebook

Tulsa head football coach Todd Graham is leaving for Pittsburgh. Graham will be the only C-USA football coach not returning next season:

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11010/1116961-142.stm

ESPN College Basketball analysis Andy Katz says C-USA is eating its self alive:

It’s one of the more competitive leagues this season, which is great for balance but not so much for separation. UCF could afford to lose at Memphis, UAB or UTEP but not at Houston. Southern Miss can afford to lose to Marshall on the road, but not by 30. Memphis can’t afford to squeak by East Carolina by just three points. Conference USA teams will beat each other up. But the challenge for the league is to prove to the selection committee that it is worthy of multiple bids in March. The league won’t lack for quality, entertaining games, as evidenced by the triple-overtime affair between UTEP and UAB, but that still doesn’t help impress the committee. There needs to be a clear separation from the top to the bottom in this conference.

http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/20882/katz-thoughts-from-the-week-that-was

According to UCFAthletics.com writer Marc Daniels the Liberty Bowl might not be C-USA’s champion destination. Apparently the SEC does not like losing to a C-USA school and the Liberty bowl would much rather keep its SEC affiliation. Daniels report could be a bit premature, C-USA, the SEC, and the Liberty Bowl agreed to a four year extension of the bowl series in 2010.

And while we are on the subject of bowls, don't look for the league to stay with the Liberty Bowl in the future. The Memphis based bowl wants the SEC because of the amount of fans those schools bring. But the SEC is not going to want to possibly lose to a non-BCS team as Georgia did to the Knights. They would rather play the 11th place team in the ACC then lose to a C-USA team. My prediction is the Ticket City Bowl in Dallas becomes the destination for the league winner. The league office is based in Dallas and the league champion would likely face a Big 12 or Big 10 opponent.

http://ucfathletics.cstv.com/sports/knights/spec-rel/010911aaa.html

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/11/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd rides hot start to win

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101101954

From the Charleston Gazette, Curry has 'unfinished business'

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101101631

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Baines reaches milestone in win

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101110069

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Curry passes on the NFL

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101101616

From the Herald Dispatch, Curry staying at Marshall

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1375472787/Curry-staying-at-Marshall

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd tames Tigers

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1375472785/Herd-tames-Tigers

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Herrion knew Herd was about out of gas

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1375472783/Chuck-Landon-Herrion-knew-Herd-was-about-out-of-gas

From the Herald Dispatch, Kane honored by C-USA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1047975054/Kane-honored-by-C-USA

Marshall Football: Vinny Curry Forgoes NFL, Stays at MU

Marshall University defensive end Vinny Curry (rising senior) is staying in school and will not enter the NFL draft. Last season Curry registered 12 sacks (5th in nation), 18 tackles for loss (13th in nation), 94 tackles, 3 pass break ups, and 2 forced fumbles.

Curry made his intention to stay in school known today at a 4:30pm press conference.

Cody Slate Inks Futures Contract with Kansas City Chiefs

Chuck McGill of the Charleston Daily Mail is reporting that former Marshall tight end Cody Slate is set to sign a two year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs. The agreement is believed to be for a futures contract. Futures contracts are signed for the 2011 season, even though the upcoming season does not officially begin until March. Only players who were not on any NFL team’s active roster when the 2010 season ended are eligible for futures contracts.

Slate was signed to Kansas City’s practice squad before last weeks playoff game. Slate, cut in training camp by Kansas City, caught 4 passes for 49 yards in two preseason games with the Chiefs.

Hassan Whiteside back with Sacramento Kings

After a short stint in the NBA Developmental League former Marshall star Hassan Whiteside has returned to the Sacramento Kings. With the Reno Big Horns Whiteside played 14 games, averaging 10.5 minutes, 4.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. Whiteside received extensive playing time on December 11th against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers where he registered 12 points, 8 blocks, and 7 rebounds in 29 minutes of play. In Whiteside’s other 13 games with Reno he did not receive more than 15 minutes of floor time.

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/10/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Crook leads Herd women

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101091405

From the Charleston Gazette, Vinny Curry to NFL Draft?

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101091496

From the Charleston Gazette, Is C-USA scheduling philosophy paying off?

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101091498

From the Charleston Gazette, A word about Gary Parrish

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/08/a-word-about-gary-parrish/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Cody Slate to sign multi-year deal with Chiefs

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101100076

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Waiters is prepared for start with Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101091331

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Guards impress Southern Miss coach

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101091314

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Vinny Curry and the NFL

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/01/09/vinny-curry-and-the-nfl/

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women hold off UTEP

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1047975007/MU-women-hold-off-UTEP

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall surprised Southern Miss

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1375472684/Marshall-surprised-Southern-Miss

From the Herald Dispatch, Kings bring back Whiteside

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1047974982/Kings-bring-back-Whiteside

Marshall in the NFL: Regular Season Wrap Up

Chris Massey, LS, St. Louis Rams

After sitting out the majority of last season due to a knee injury Massey had a successful 2010 in St. Louis. Every snap Massey made this season found its target. Massey inked a contact extension in St. Louis before the season.

Chris Crocker, S, Cincinnati Bengals

Started at safety for the Bengals until a knee injury placed him on injured reserve week 11. Over 11 games Crocker registered 43 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 5 passes defended. Crocker has stated his knee injury, torn PCL/MCL, will not require surgery. Crocker is under contract in Cincinnati for next season.

Randy Moss, WR, Tennessee Titans

Moss started the season in New England but was trade to Minnesota after week 4. After four weeks with the Vikings Moss was released and joined Tennessee where he finished the season. Moss’s total stats on three teams, 15 games, 28 receptions, 393 yards, and 5 touchdowns account for his least productive season in 13 years. The veteran wide receiver will be a free agent.

Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, New York Giants

Won the Giants starting half back job out of camp and held that position for 10 weeks. New York has recently split carries between Bradshaw and veteran Brandon Jacobs but it has not prevented the former Marshall star from a break out season. For the year Bradshaw had 276 rushing attempts for 1,235 yards and 8 touchdowns. Through the air Bradshaw accounted for 314 yards on 47 receptions. Bradshaw’s biggest negative this season was fumbles (lost 6). He will be a free agent for the 1st time this offseason.

Doug Legursky, OL, Pittsburgh Steelers

In his third season with Pittsburgh Legursky made the 53 man roster out of training camp for the first time. During the season he started a couple of games at guard and saw spot duty along the interior offensive line. Legursky has also served as fullback in Pittsburgh’s goal line package. Not to sure on his contract status, either has one year left or will be a free agent.

Byron Leftwich, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers

Signed to compete with Dennis Dixon for Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback job while Ben Roethlisberger served an early season suspension. Dixon won the job and Leftwich did not see the field until week 17 in mop-up duty. For the year Leftwich completed 5 passes for 42 yards. He will be a free agent this offseason.

C.J Spillman, S, San Francisco 49ers

Started the season in San Diego but was released after week 4 because of poor special teams play. Was immediately signed by San Francisco before week 5 and contributed on special teams with occasional spot duty at safety. In ten games on the game day roster of both clubs Spillman registered 19 tackles. Will be a free agent.

Chad Pennington, QB, Miami Dolphins

After a shoulder injury ended his 2009 season Pennington finally got a chance to start for Miami in week 10. Unfortunately, Pennington only attempted two passes as he re-injured his shoulder and spent the rest of 2010 on injured reserve. Stats, 1 completion on 2 attempts for 19 yards. Pennington has said he is “50-50” on retirement, will be a free agent.

Daniel Baldridge,, OL, Jacksonville Jaguars

Started the year on Jacksonville’s practice squad but was promoted to the 53 man roster for week 14. Spent the next four weeks on the Jaguars game day inactive list. Not to sure about his contract status, should be with the Jaguars heading into OTA’s and training camp.

Albert McClellan, LB, Baltimore Ravens

Spent all of 2010 on the Ravens practice squad. Would not be surprised if he inked a futures contract in Baltimore soon.

Cody Slate, TE, Kansas City Chiefs

After being cut in training camp Kansas City signed Slate to their practice squad before this weeks playoff game. Would not be surprised if he inked a futures contract in Kansas City soon.

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/7/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Up next: Southern Miss at home

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/01/06/up-next-southern-miss-at-home/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Herd cannot come unglued

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101061360

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Dre’s Day.

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/01/06/dres-day/

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd to face another tough foe

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1825838795/Herd-to-face-another-tough-foe

From the Herald Dispatch, Memphis tops MU women

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1825838798/Memphis-tops-MU-women

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Learning curve leads to big things for Dre Kane

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x834575288/Chuck-Landon-Learning-curve-leads-to-big-things-for-Dre-Kane

Marshall Football: Rakeem Cato Verbally Commits to Herd

Rakeem Cato, a 6’1, 170 pound quarterback from Miami Central High School (FL) has committed to Marshall. Cato recently lead Miami Central to the Florida 6A state championship. During his senior season Cato completed 228 passes on 331 attempts for 2,988 yards and 26 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions. Cato is a teammate of fellow Miami Central Marshall commitment Tommy Shuler. For more on Cato follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Rakeem-Cato-103428

2010 stats via the Miami Herald: http://sportstrac.herald.com/SportsTrac.aspx?action=team&schoolid=106&sportsid=5&schoolyear=2010/2011

CoachesAid.com article with Cato’s background story: http://coachesaid.com/Article/2009/11/6/Miami-Springs-QB-Rakeem-Cato-was-born-to-throw

Scout.com profile: http://florida.scout.com/a.z?s=168&p=8&c=1&nid=4357375

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player/videos?id=90925&_slug_=rakeem-cato&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%2fvideos%3fid%3d90925%26_slug_%3drakeem-cato

YouTube.com video (the Cato shuffle): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxdTf_yMsL0

Marshall Football: Cornelius Jones commits to Herd

GOUpstate.com is reporting that former Michigan commitment Cornelius Jones will enrollee at Marshall this upcoming semester. Jones, a quarterback, was set to attend Michigan last year but was denied entry into the school after meeting NCAA eligibility requirements. During his senior season at Spartanburg High School (SC) Jones completed 127 passes on 239 attempts for 1,603 yards and 8 touchdowns. A dual threat Jones also rushed for 771 yards and 17 touchdowns. For more on Jones follow the links below:

GOUpstate.com article: http://www.goupstate.com/article/20110105/NEWS/110109903/1002/sports04?p=2&tc=pg

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/michigan/football/recruiting/player-Conelius-Jones-92704

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=92844&_slug_=cornelius-jones&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d92844%26_slug_%3dcornelius-jones

Scout.com profile: http://michigan.scout.com/a.z?s=162&p=8&c=1&nid=3837505

YouTube.com video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9dc1Hk2boU

Marshall Football: Josue Jospeh Verbally Commits to Herd

Josue Joseph, a 6’4, 270 pound offensive tackle from Freedom High School (FL) has verbally committed to Marshall. Joseph had been committed to Florida Atlantic but recently re-opened his recruitment. For more information on Jospeh follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Josue-Joseph-115553

ESPN.com profile: http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player/news?id=111325&_slug_=josue-joseph&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%2fnews%3fid%3d111325%26_slug_%3djosue-joseph

Orlando Sentinel article on his previous commitment to FAU: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/recruiting/os-recruiting-josue-joseph-commits-florida-atlantic,0,1478780.story

YouTube.com video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kn9DtBq336E

Cody Slate back with Kansas City Chiefs

Former Marshall tight end Cody Slate was added to the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad yesterday. Slate was in training camp with Kansas City and played in two preseason games, catching 4 passes for 49 yards.

Hopefully KC will sign Slate to a futures contract after their season is over. Reserve/futures contracts are signed for the 2010 season, even though the upcoming season does not officially begin until March. Only players who were not on any NFL team’s active roster when the 2009 season ended are eligible for reserve/futures contracts. Players who were on NFL practice squads at the end of the 2009 season were eligible to sign with any team.

Today's Marshall Sports News 1/6/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd falls short in reunion vs. Jones

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101051382

From the Charleston Gazette, C-USA signs 5-year TV deal with Fox

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201101051384

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd falls short against UCF, former coach

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101051440

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Jack Bogaczyk: Fox deal is sweet for Herd, C-USA

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201101051176

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Quick post-game rundown …

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/01/05/quick-post-game-rundown/

From the Herald Dispatch, UCF pulls away from Herd, 65-58

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1664842813/Knights-pull-away-at-end-win-65-58

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: UCF too hot for Herd to handle

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1664842811/Chuck-Landon-UCF-too-hot-for-Herd-to-handle

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women open conference play against Memphis

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1664842815/MU-women-open-conference-play-against-Memphis

From the Herald Dispatch, C-USA strikes up TV deal with Fox

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x834575172/C-USA-strikes-up-TV-deal-with-Fox

C-USA & Fox Sports Reach Broadcast Agreement

C-USA and Fox Sports have reached a new multi-year agreement for national television rights beginning with the 2011 football season through the 2015-16 athletic year.

The agreement calls for 20 regular season football games, the C-USA football championship game, and 10 regular season men’s basketball to be broadcast through Fox Sports Media Group every year.

C-USA's previous deal with ESPN only included 10 football games and 6 men's B-ball games. Fox will also be investing $7.6 million per year while ESPN's expiring contract only paid $3.6 million.

Fox broadcast many of its games through regional sports networks like, Fox Sports Houston, Fox Sports Southwest, and Sun Sports. This arrangement should be good for Marshall fans outside of Huntington. Direct TV carries all of Fox Sports regional networks. In a C-USA press release Marshall athletic director Mike Hamrick had this to say about the deal:

"You have to be pleased when your TV partner significantly increases the exposure (triples) and revenue (doubles) of your program," Hamrick said. "We have an outstanding overall multi-media agreement when you look at the Fox and CBS College Sports components as a whole."

For the full press release follow this link: http://conferenceusa.cstv.com/genrel/010511aac.html