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Loyal Readers,

In a effort to give our website a cleaner and more professional look the Marshall Thundering Blog underwent a transformation earlier today. We have eliminated the hunter green background and white lettering for an improved design. In it's place the Marshall Thundering Blog now features a cleaner white backdrop and black text. What won't change is the same quality content this website has been providing since 2009.

One quick and very important note. Our links will now appear in kelly green and will not be underlined. All kelly green text will take you away from the Marshall Thundering Blog to additional content.

Thanks again for your continued support of the Marshall Thundering Blog. Please leave your feedback on our new look in the comments section of this post.

C-USA Football: Week 9 Round Up

For a full review of last weeks action in Conference USA football click here.

Standings:

East Division
1.USM: 7-1 (3-1)
2.ECU: 4-4 (3-1)
3.Marshall: 4-5 (3-2)
4.UCF: 4-4 (2-2)
5.Memphis: 2-7 (1-4)
6.UAB: 1-7 (1-4)

West Division
1.Houston: 8-0 (4-0)
2.Tulsa: 5-3 (4-0)
3.SMU: 5-3 (3-2)
4.UTEP: 4-4 (1-3)
5.Rice: 2-6 (1-4)
6.Tulane: 2-7 (1-4)

Marshall Football: Verbal Commitment Watch, Week 11

The Marshall Thundering Blog looks back on last weeks high school football action and reviews the performance of every Marshall verbal commitment.

1. Tyler Combs, OL, Lawrence County High School (KY)

Lawrence County (4-6) was off this week but will meet Morgan County (8-2) Friday night in a first round playoff matchup.

2. Devon Johnson, LB/RB, Richlands High School (VA)

Richlands High School (9-0) was also off this week. They will play their final regular season game this Friday against Tazwell High School (0-8)

3. Trenton Norvell, QB, Seabreeze High School (FL)

Trenton Norvell completed all eight of his passing attempts during Seabreeze’s 41 – 21 win over Pine Ridge. Throwing for 184 yards and two touchdowns Norvell also ran for eight yards and another score.

Read about the game here.

4. Ryan Riedel, LB, Cabell Midland High School (WV)

Ryan Riedel and the Cabell Midland Knights (6-3) spent their bye week preparing for this Friday’s regular season finale against Hurricane (7-2).

5. Antonio Wells, DE, Magna Vista High School (VA)

Antonio Wells and the Magna Vista defense held Martinsville to only 188 yards of offense during a 34 – 17 victory.

Read about the game here.

6. Matt Cincotta, LS/LB, Charlotte Catholic High School (NC)

Charlotte Catholic High School captured it’s conference championship Friday night with a 55 – 20 over the Olympic Trojans. During the game Matt Cincotta was perfect on all his long snap attempts.

Read about the game here.

7. Cameron Dees, OL, Armwood High School (FL)

In a battle between nationally ranked teams Armwood defeated Plant 21 – 0 Friday night. Cameron Dees and the Armwood offensive line sprung running back Matt Jones for a 30 yard touchdown run late in the forth quarter to seal the game.

Read about the game here.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/31/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Don’t make him angry

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110300139

From the Charleston Gazette, C-USA the power league

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/31/monday-morning-c-usa-the-power-league/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Scheduling work seems to be next step for WVU

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201110300080?page=1&build=cache

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Evans, MU vets key to victory

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110300076

From the Herald Dispatch, MU 'D' bounces back

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824267208/MU-D-bounces-back

From the Herald Dispatch, Bye week comes at a good time for banged-up Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824267210/Andrew-Ramspacher-Bye-week-comes-at-a-good-time-for-banged-up-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Tomas, Milligan spur MU volleyball to win

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824267202/Tomas-Milligan-spur-MU-volleyball-to-win

Marshall Basketball: JUCO forward Elijah Pittman commits to Herd

Elijah Pittman, a 6'7, 210 lbs, power forward from Lamar State College (JUCO, Texas) has verbally committed to Marshall University.

Pittman has taken a long and winding road to Marshall. As a senior at Holmes High School (KY) he earned all state honors while averaging 14 points, six rebounds, and two blocks per game. Lacking the grades to qualify at a division one school Pittman committed to Chipola College (JUCO, Florida). Pittman planned to attend WVU after his time at Chipola.

While at Chipola Pittman was arrested for misdemeanor possession of marijuana and sentenced to probation. Pittman violated the terms of his probation which lead to a six month jail sentence.
Before violating his probation and being dismissed from school Pittman played in eight games averaging 13.2 points and five rebounds.

After leaving jail Pittman enrolled at Lamar State College where he will play one season before transferring to Marshall. Besides Marshall, Pittman also had a scholarship offer from Southern Mississippi.

For more on Pittman follow these links:

Rivals.com profile.

Stats at Chipola.

Lamar State College basketball roster.

Marshall Football: Herd tramples UAB 59-14

In dominating fashion Marshall University's football team defeated UAB 59 - 14 Saturday afternoon. The win brings Marshall's total to four this season, two away from bowl eligibility. Marshall is off next week before heading to Tulsa on November 12th.

Box score from yesterday's game.

Marshall head coach Doc Holliday's post game press conference, (video) via the Charleston Gazette's Chuck McGill.

Marshall Footbal: News from UAB

Collection of articles on UAB football leading up to Saturday's game at Marshall:

From AL.com, Should UAB fans hope to lose?

http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/hot_corner_should_uab_football.html

From the Huntsville Times, UAB football notes for Tuesday

http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/uab_football_notes_for_tuesday_1.html

From the Huntsville Times, UAB football notes for Monday

http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/uab_football_notes_for_monday_2.html

From AL.com, Ty Long calls his first game winning kick "just another kick"

http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2011/10/ty_long_calls_his_first_game-w.html

From Yahoo Sports, UAB team report 10/26/11

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=teamreports-2011-ncaaf-aaz

Today's Marshall University Athletic News, 10/28/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Rest the story for Herd opponents

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110270270

From the Charleston Daily Mail, West visits Huntington again this time with UAB

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110270181

From the Herald Dispatch, UAB not done yet

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2038894053/UAB-not-done-yet

From the Herald Dispatch, Big game vs. UAB last year got Gale going

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702708/Big-game-against-UAB-last-year-got-Gale-going

From the Herald Dispatch, Curry named Lombardi semifinalist

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702702/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Justin Howe leaves Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2038894055/Justin-Howe-leaves-Herd

From the WV Metro News, The Stampede with Dave Wilson

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=48803

C-USA Football: Week 9 Preview

Conference USA football kicks off it’s week tonight as Houston battles cross town rival Rice for the Bayou Bucket. For a preview of every C-USA game this week including UAB’s visit to Marshall click here.

Standings:

East Division
USM: 6-1 (2-1)
ECU: 3-4 (2-1)
Marshall: 3-5 (2-2)
UCF: 3-4 (1-2)
Memphis: 2-6 (1-3)
UAB: 1-6 (1-3)

West Division
Houston: 7-0 (3-0)
Tulsa: 4-3 (3-0)
SMU: 5-2 (3-1)
UTEP: 4-3 (1-2)
Rice: 2-5 (1-3)
Tulane: 2-6 (1-2)

Marshall Football: Former QB Derek Devine is a Champion

Yes you read the headline right, former Marshall University quarterback Derek Devine won a championship, in football too! After leaving Marshall in 2006 with only two completions for 21 yards the prospect of Devine playing professional football were slim and none. Defying the odds Devine participated in two NFL training camps with the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Redskins.

Recently, Devine has served as a backup quarterback for the United Football Leagues Virginia Destroyers. Last Friday night Devine’s Destroyers defeated the Las Vegas Locomotives for the UFL championship. Much like his Marshall career Devine did not see the field for Virginia this season but hey, guy still won a championship.

You can see Devine’s UFL player page here.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/27/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd coaches: UAB better than record

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110260286

From the Charleston Gazette, Trying to stay off the wall

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110260271

From the Charleston Gazette, Marshall offers 2013 recruit Keith Bryant scholarship

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/26/recruiting-item-2/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Prep coach says Marshall freshman an NBA athlete

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110260212

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall's Mitchell likes to hit things

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110260210

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall University athletics chat transcript

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/26/chat-about-dragons-deandre-etc/

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd's Boykins has a plan

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702448/Herds-Boykins-has-a-plan

From the Herald Dispatch, Welcome back, Wilson

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702450/After-tough-start-WR-makes-valuable-return-to-the-offense-in-last-two-games

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: Van showing flashes of returning to form

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702452/Van-showing-flashes-of-returning-to-form

From the Herald Dispatch, Brand named 2011 WV Player of Year

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702462/Brand-named-2011-WV-Player-of-Year

From the Herald Dispatch, Doubles tennis team advances in Va. Tourney

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702454/Doubles-tennis-team-advances-in-Va-tourney

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: MU draws biggest crowds on the road

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702446/MU-draws-biggest-crowds-on-the-road

C-USA, MWC, Big East meeting called off?

Per cbssports.com, a rumored meeting between Conference USA commissioner Britton Banowksy, Mountain West commissioner Craig Thompson, and Big East commissioner John Marinatto did not occur today.

From cbssports.com:

Also, the multiple reports that indicated Big East commissioner John Marinatto would meet with Conference USA commissioner Britton Banowksy and Mountain West commissioner Craig Thompson today "were not accurate," Big East spokesman John Paquette told CBSSports.com Tuesday. Paquette also reiterated today that Marinatto did not meet today Banowsky and Thompson.

C-USA and the MWC hope to merge with the Big East in some fashion to obtain a BCS automatic qualifying bid. However, the Big East still plans on forming a 12-team football league with the addition of Boise State, Navy, Air Force, UCF, Houston and SMU to join USF, UConn, Rutgers, Cincinnati and either Louisville or West Virginia.

The Big East would have to seek another school to replace West Virginia or Louisville. Temple would be the most likely candidate, but the possible new Western members are interested in pursuing BYU to replace WVU or UL.

Read the full article here.

Marshall Football: Herd possible landing spot for Florida transfer?

Yesterday, Florida sophomore wide receiver Robert Clark announced he was leaving the Gators football program in search of more playing time. A Palm Beach Post report speculated that Clark could end up at Marshall:

As far as future destinations, it might be worth remembering that Clark was a longtime commit to West Virginia. Most of the staff that recruited him to the Mountaineers now is at Marshall.

As a true sophomore Clark could transfer to Marshall, use his redshirt year while sitting out, and have two seasons of eligibility left. As a freshman at Florida Clark caught seven passes for 69 yards and one touchdown. He has not registered a catch this year.

Read the whole Palm Beach Post blog post here.

Marshall Football: Curry named top NFL draft prospect by Sports Illustrated

In a recent Sports Illustrated article Marshall senior defensive end Vinny Curry was named a top 50 prospect for next April’s NFL draft. SI writer Tony Pauline tagged Curry as the 24th best available player:

24. Vinny Curry, DE-OLB, Marshall: Curry thought long and hard about entering the 2010 draft, but ultimately made the proper call and returned for his senior season. He's a dynamic pass rusher who can line up at defensive end in a conventional scheme or play outside linebacker in a 3-4 alignment.

For the whole article here.

Marshall Basketball: 2011-2012 Season Preview

I was all set to write my Marshall basketball preview for the upcoming season but, MU sports information director Jason Corriher released his yesterday and to be honest, it is better than any thing I would have produced.

Any way, if you are looking for a comprehensive look at Marshall’s 2011-2012 basketball season click here. Corriher and his staff do an excellent job breaking down the Herds front court, back court, and schedule.

Don’t forget, Marshall’s season tips off with an exhibition against Northern Kentucky a week from yesterday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. inside the Cam Henderson Center.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/26/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Longest yard proves elusive for Herd

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110250246

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Graham makes great strides, ending controversy

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110250188

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Video: Doc Holliday weekly press conference (UAB)

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/25/video-doc-holliday-weekly-press-conference-uab/

From the Herald Dispatch, Holliday: Blazers are scary

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702031/Holliday-Blazers-are-scary

From the Herald Dispatch, Kane gets reaction with joke on Twitter

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702029/Kane-gets-reaction-with-joke-on-Twitter

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Herd never faced team quite like Houston

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702027/Herd-never-faced-team-quite-like-Houston

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: Back from injury, Hunter still hopes for playing time

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643702033/Back-from-injury-Hunter-still-hopes-for-playing-time

C-USA, MWC, & Big East set meeting on Wednesday

Per the Las Vegas Review Journal:

Commissioners from the Mountain West Conference and Conference USA are scheduled to meet with the head of the Big East Conference on Wednesday to discuss the formation of one 28- to 32-football team super conference to try to gain automatic Bowl Championship Series status.

The Mountain West and Conference USA already have agreed to merge by either next year or in 2013. The Big East has automatic BCS status, but is in danger of losing it after 2013 and has been exploring adding teams from the Mountain West and Conference USA in an attempt to salvage it. But the two Mountain West members face hefty exit fees should they leave -- Boise State up to $21 million and Air Force up to $9.6 million -- that could dissuade them from jumping to the Big East.

Read the whole article here.

Marshall Basketball: DeAndre Kane transfer tweet just a joke

*Update*

Marshall University sophomore basketball player DeAndre Kane just confirmed via twitter that his earlier tweet about transferring to Michigan was a joke.

Kane's twitter account can be found here.

*Original Post*

Don’t know if this is true or not but, Marshall University sophomore basketball player DeAndre Kane just tweeted on his personal twitter account that he is transferring to the University of Michigan.

You can find Kane’s twitter account here: https://mobile.twitter.com/dkanemu24

During the 2010-2011 season Kane won Conference USA’s freshman of the year award averaging 15.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assist per game. Earlier this month Kane was named to C-USA’s all first team preseason list.

If Kane is transferring he would be required to sit out a year at Michigan before becoming eligible.

More to follow on this story soon, keep on checking back at the Marshall Thundering Blog for updates.

Marshall in the NFL, Week 7

Weekly review of Marshall University alumni in the NFL:

1. Ahmad Bradshaw, Running Back, New York Giants

Bye week.

2. C.J Spillman, Safety, San Francisco 49ers

Bye week.

3. Chris Crocker, Safety, Cincinnati Bengals

Bye week.

4. Doug Legursky, Guard/Center, Pittsburgh Steelers

Doug Legursky sat out the Steelers 32 – 20 victory over Arizona with a dislocated toe. Look for Legursky to return next week when Pittsburgh takes on the New England Patriots.

5. Byron Lefwich, Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers*

* On injured reserved, broken arm.

6. Albert McClellan, Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens

Albert McClellan registered a career high two tackles during the Ravens 12 – 7 loss to Jacksonville.

7. Lee Smith, Tight End, Buffalo Bills

Bye week.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/25/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Points Mitchell makes his point with Herd defesne

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110240231

From the Charleston Gazette, UAB faces Herd after notching first win

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110240234

From the Associated Press, Houston to authorize conference move

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110240242

From the Charleston Gazette, Clearing up the P. Edwards TD

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/24/clearing-up-the-p-edwards-td/

From the Charleston Gazette, Notes for Birmingham

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/24/notes-from-birmingham/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, UAB’s first win caught Herd’s attention

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110240160

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Bowl game, the MAC and Graham vs. Gehrig

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/24/bowl-game-the-mac-and-graham-vs-gehrig/

From the Herald Dispatch, MU plays exhibition game in one week

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824265882/MU-plays-exhibition-game-in-one-week

From the Herald Dispatch, Blitz still coming for Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824265884/MU-defense-regroups-from-Houston-loss-by-getting-back-to-what-it-knows-best

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: UAB's Ellis done for year; Perry will get to start

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824265886/Andrew-Ramspacher-UABs-Ellis-done-for-year-Perry-will-get-to-start

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Can super conference keep Big East alive?

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824265880/Chuck-Landon-Can-super-conference-keep-Big-East-alive

C-USA Football: Week 8 Round Up

For a full review of last weeks action in Conference USA football click here.

Standings:

East Division
USM: 6-1 (2-1)
ECU: 3-4 (2-1)
Marshall: 3-5 (2-2)
UCF: 3-4 (1-2)
Memphis: 2-6 (1-3)
UAB: 1-6 (1-3)

West Division
Houston: 7-0 (3-0)
Tulsa: 4-3 (3-0)
SMU: 5-2 (3-1)
UTEP: 4-3 (1-2)
Rice: 2-5 (1-3)
Tulane: 2-6 (1-2)

Marshall Football: Verbal Commitment Watch, Week 10

On Mondays the Marshall Thundering Blog looks back on last weeks high school football action and reviews the performance of every Marshall verbal commitment. This weeks review is below:

1. Tyler Combs, OL, Lawrence County High School (KY)

Lawrence County and Tyler Combs got it’s fourth win of the season Friday night, beating winless East Ridge 47 – 6.

Brief review of the game can be found here.

2. Devon Johnson, LB/RB, Richlands High School (VA)

Richlands High School remained undefeated Friday night, beating Abingdon 56 – 10. Devon Johnson rushed for 262 yards on 19 carries with three touchdowns. For the season Johnson has visited the end zone 22 times.

Read about the game here.

3. Trenton Norvell, QB, Seabreeze High School (FL)

Trenton Norvell helped Seabreeze High School to a 49 – 21 win over New Smyrna using both his arm and legs. On the ground Norvell rushed eight times for 63 yards and one touchdown. Through the air Norvell passed for 132 yards on six completions with a touchdown.

Read about the game here.

4. Ryan Riedel, LB, Cabell Midland High School (WV)

Behind a strong defensive effort Ryan Riedel and Cabell Midland High School defeated Princeton 27 – 3 Friday night. The Cabell Midland defense only gave up 122 yards of offense.

Read about the game here.

5. Antonio Wells, DE, Magna Vista High School (VA)

Bye week.

6. Matt Cincotta, LS/LB, Charlotte Catholic High School (NC)

Charlotte Catholic High School kept it’s undefeated record in tact, beating East Gaston 42 – 18 Friday night. Matt Cincotta’s special teams unit did allow one blocked field goal attempt.

Read about the game here.

7. Cameron Dees, OL, Armwood High School (FL

Under the watchful eyes of visiting Florida Gators offensive coordinator Charlie Weis, Armwood High School beat Hillsborough 38 – 16 Friday night. Cameron Dees and the Armwood offensive line helped running back Matt Jones to 121 rushing yards on 27 carries and one touchdown.

Read about the game here.

Sad News: Chili Willi’s closing it’s doors

Yes, this is still a blog dedicated to Marshall University athletics but news like this deserves universal attention. Operating in Huntington since 1983, Chili Willi’s Mexica Cantina will be closing its doors after October 31st.

Chili Willi’s was one of my favorite Huntington restaurants and I always make it a priority to visit when ever I return. In fact, I will be in town for next weeks UAB game and plan to take one final trip.

I encourage all the Thundering Blog’s tri-state readers to stop by Chili Willi’s this week and pay your respects to a Huntington institution.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/24/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd LB’s had their hands full at Houston

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110230125

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Final stretch is here for Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110230081

From the Herald Dispatch, Is Graham the man for MU?

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643701417/IS-GRAHAM-THE-MAN

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: UH thwarts MU's alleged plans to take out Keenum

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643701419/Andrew-Ramspacher-UH-thwarts-MUs-alleged-plans-to-take-out-Keenum

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall volleyball slips past SMU for 5th win of the season

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643701421/Marshall-volleyball-slips-past-SMU-for-5th-win-of-the-season

From the Herald Dispatch, MU student wins featured position in ING New York City Marathon

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643701409/MU-student-wins-featured-position-in-ING-New-York-City-Marathon

From the Herald Dispatch, UAB slips past Herd soccer, 3-2

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824265522/UAB-slips-past-Herd-soccer-3-2

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall's Mbao standing tall

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824265518/Marshalls-Mbao-standing-tall

Marshall Football: Cougars maul Herd 63 - 28

Marshall University played the role of homecoming opponent to a t, losing at Houston (7-0, 2-2) 63 - 28. The loss will drop Marshall (3-5, 2-2) from the top of C-USA's eastern division.

Box score of today's game can be found here.

Marshall Football: News from Houston

A collection of articles on Houston football leading up to this weeks game:

From the Houston Chronicle, UH defense putting it all together

http://www.chron.com/sports/cougars/article/UH-defense-putting-it-all-together-2216084.php

From the Houston Chronicle, Hungry o-line readies for biggest challenge

http://blog.chron.com/cougars/2011/10/hungry-o-line-readies-for-biggest-challenge/

From the Houston Chronicle, This Week: UH vs. Houston

http://blog.chron.com/cougars/2011/10/this-week-uh-vs-marshall/

From the Houston Chronicle, UH seeks to bust into BCS

http://www.chron.com/sports/college-football/article/UH-seeks-formula-to-bust-into-BCS-2227320.php

From USA Today, Case Keenum has Houston unbeaten while closing in on records

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/cusa/story/2011-10-20/case-keenum-houston-passing-records/50845848/1

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/21/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Aiken earning respect playing with pain

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110200265

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall Football: Houston offense still linked to Holgorson

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110200133

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall Football: Rippon, defense want to slow down Houston offense

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110200127

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Coaches’ poll: no love for herd

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/20/coaches-poll-no-love-for-the-herd/

From the Herald Dispatch, Cougars, Keenum continue the quest

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643700526/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Tulse sweeps MU volleyball

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643700530/No-Headline

From the West Virginia Metro News, The Stampede with Dave Wilson Oct. 20

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=48654

C-USA Football Preview: Week 8

Conference USA football starts week eight with a Thursday night match-up between UAB and UCF. The rest of C-USA kicks-off on Saturday for a six game slate including two out of conference contest.

For a preview of this weeks match-ups follow this link.

Standings:

East Division
Marshall: 3-4 (2-1)
ECU: 2-4 (2-1)
USM: 5-1 (1-1)
UCF: 3-3 (1-1)
Memphis: 1-6 (0-3)
UAB: 0-6 (0-3)

West Division
SMU: 5-1 (3-0)
Houston: 6-0 (2-0)
Tulsa: 3-3 (2-0)
UTEP: 3-3 (1-2)
Tulane: 2-5 (1-2)
Rice: 2-4 (1-2)

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/20/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Defense looking forward to challenge of slowing Houston

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110190291

From the Charleston Gazette, Cougars recall nasty mishap at Marshall

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110190285

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Junior college players key to frontcourt success for Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110190166

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd's Curry moving up program's career lists

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110190154

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Mountain West commish proposes 16-team playoff

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/20/mountain-west-commish-proposes-16-team-playoff/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall Athletics chat transcript

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/19/chat-all-about-cougars/

From the Herald Dispatch, All the way back

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824264865/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Marshall targeting Houston's Keenum

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643700272/Marshall-targeting-Houstons-Keenum

From the Herald Dispatch, MU Basketball Notebook: Kane makes Top 100 list

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824264863/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, MU Football Notebook: Holliday has mixed feelings about conference movement

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824264831/Holliday-has-mixed-feelings-about-conference-movement

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall volleyball travels to Tulsa

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x824264867/No-Headline

From HerdZone.com, Baseball to play fall world series

http://www.herdzone.com/sports/m-basebl/spec-rel/101911aaa.html

Chat with the Charleston Daily Mail's Chuck McGill

Charleston Daily Mail reporter Chuck McGill, who covers Marshall athletics for the paper, will be holding a live chat at 7pm tonight. McGill’s chats are always very informative and come highly recommended.

Click this link to find the chat at 7pm.

Marshall Football: verbal commitment Trenton Norvell visits Cincinnati

Per a report in the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Marshall verbal commitment Trenton Norvell, a quarterback from Seabreeze High School (FL), visited Cincinnati this past weekend.

To find out what Norvell thought about his visit with the Bearcats and another Marshall recruiting item on quarterback Gunnar Holcombe click here.

Also, Trenton Norvell’s Marshall Thundering Blog profile.

Marshall Football: Sports Illustrated highlights Vinny Curry

Marshall defensive end Vinny Curry was featured in a Sports Illustrated article about college football players rising up NFL teams draft boards. This is what SI had to say about Curry:

Vinny Curry, DE-OLB, Marshall: One of the best kept secrets of the 2012 NFL Draft plays for the Thundering Herd and is impressing league decision-makers every weekend. In seven games this season Curry has totaled 9.5 sacks, 17.5 tackles for loss and 42 tackles. He also has a safety and two blocked kicks to his credit this year. On Saturday, Curry posted 3.5 sacks against Rice, 3.0 of which came on third down. He has the skills to be used out of a three-point stance as a one-gap defensive end and Curry is also getting a lot of consideration as a 3-4 outside linebacker. He looks like the next first round pick from Marshall.

Read the whole article here.

C-USA Football: ESPNU goes all-access with Houston tonight

If you want a up close look at Houston’s football program before this Saturday’s game tune into ESPNU at 5pm EST this evening for ESPNU All-Access featuring the Cougars.

Press release from University of Houston athletics:

Houston, Texas - Houston Football (6-0, 2-0 C-USA) is one of the country's 13 remaining undefeated programs and is ranked inside the Top 25 for a third consecutive season. That sustained success under head coach Kevin Sumlin, coupled with the record-breaking feats of senior quarterback Case Keenum, prompted ESPNU to highlight the program earlier this week in its ESPNU All-Access show.

The telecast will air on ESPNU on Wednesday (Oct. 19) at 4 p.m. CT.

The taping occurred on Oct. 12 and producer Erik Rozentals and his staff began the view inside Cougar Football at 6 a.m. with Director of Sports Performance, Larry Jackson, leading morning strength and conditioning training. A facility tour from senior Justin Johnson and a "cribs-like" look inside the home of Chris Thompson and David Hunter followed, before a more detailed documentation inside the life of a student-athlete at the University of Houston.

The show will air Homecoming Week, just before the Cougars face the Marshall Thundering Heard at Robertson Stadium. The Oct. 22 kickoff is slated for a 3:30 p.m. start and the team will be wearing throwback jerseys commemorating the 1960s and 70s eras. Tickets for the game are still available by calling the Houston Athletics Ticket Office at 713-GO-COOGS.

For more information on Houston Athletics please visit our website, UHCougars.com.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/19/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Cato or Graham? Doc not saying

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110180261

From the Charleston Gazette, Holliday hopeful C-USA will remain intact

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110180255

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Holliday on Houston and Herd QBs; Curry wins honor

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110180160

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Video: Doc Holliday weekly press conference (Houston week)

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/18/video-doc-holliday-weekly-press-conference-houston-week/

From the Herald Dispatch, Can history repeat itself?

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699935/CAN-HISTORY-REPEAT-ITSELF

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Big East morphing into former C-USA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699933/Big-East-morphing-into-former-C-USA

From the Herald Dispatch, MU football notebook: Curry continues to be recognized

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699944/Curry-continues-to-be-recognized

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd women gain Brooklyn commit

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699946/Herd-women-gain-Brooklyn-commit

From the Herald Dispatch, Women's golf wins tournament by five strokes over UAB

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699937/Womens-golf-wins-tournament-by-five-strokes-over-UAB

C-USA Football: Report, Tulane football coach Bob Toledo steps down

Per this associated press story Tulane football coach Bob Toledo has resigned. Toledo had amassed a record of 15 - 40 during his 4 ½ seasons at Tulane.

Marshall in the NFL, Week 6

Weekly review of Marshall University alumni in the NFL:

1. Ahmad Bradshaw, Running Back, New York Giants

Ahmad Bradshaw lead the Giants with three rushing touchdowns during New York’s 27 – 24 win over Buffalo. Besides the thee touchdowns Bradshaw rushed for 104 yards on 24 carries and caught two passes for 26 yards.

2. C.J Spillman, Safety, San Francisco 49ers

C.J Spillman did not register a tackle during San Francisco’s 25 – 19 win over Detroit.

3. Chris Crocker, Safety, Cincinnati Bengals

Starting at safety Chris Crocker recorded three tackles in Cincinnati’s 27 – 17 win over Indianapolis.

4. Doug Legursky, Guard/Center, Pittsburgh Steelers

Doug Legursky left Sunday’s game in the first quarter with a dislocated toe. Despite losing Legursky, Pittsburgh defeated Jacksonville 17 – 13. Early reports indicate Legursky should be able to play this week against Arizona.

5. Byron Lefwich, Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers*

* On injured reserved, broken arm.

6. Albert McClellan, Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens

Albert McClellan’s tackle streak ended as the Baltimore Ravens defeated Houston 29 – 14. Leading up to last weeks game McClellan had registered a tackle in three straight games.

7. Lee Smith, Tight End, Buffalo Bills

Lee Smith made his presence felt on special teams during the Bills 27 – 24 loss to New York, registering one tackle.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/18/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Curry’s impact earns C-USA honor

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110170245

From the Charleston Gazette, Case and point for Herd defense

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110170247

From the Charleston Gazette, MU hoops slate with game times

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/17/mu-hoops-slate-with-game-times/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Hernia won't keep Herd's Aiken down

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110170158

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Pick the QB

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/17/pick-the-qb/

From the Herald Dispatch, MU hopes to cage the cougars

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699629/Marshall-needs-to-keep-rushing-momentum-going-to-keep-potent-Houston-O-off-field

From the Herald Dispatch, Tamron Manning likes what he sees with Thundering Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699627/Tamron-Manning-likes-what-he-sees-with-the-Thundering-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Graham-Cato not letting QB battle get in way of their friendship

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1643699631/Andrew-Ramspacher-Graham-Cato-not-letting-quarterback-battle-get-in-the-way-of-their-friendship

From the Herald Dispatch, MU needs to keep Houston guessing

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1643699625/Chuck-Landon-MU-needs-to-keep-Houston-guessing

Marshall Football: Verbal Commitment Watch, Week 9

1. Tyler Combs, OL, Lawrence County High School (KY)

Lawrence County and Tyler Combs had a difficult Friday night, losing to Belfry 48 – 6.

Read about the game here.

2. Devon Johnson, LB/RB, Richlands High School (VA)

Richlands kept it’s perfect record in tact with a 48 – 23 win over Carol County. Devon Johnson had a big night, rushing 12 times for 231 yards and two touchdowns. Johnson also hauled in a 27 yard touchdown pass.

Read about he game here.

3. Trenton Norvell, QB, Seabreeze High School (FL)

Despite coughing up a 28 – 3 halftime lead Seabreeze defeated Palm Bay Side 35 – 31. Trenton Norvell finished the night with 11 completions on 15 attempts for 168 yards. He also carried the ball three times for nine yards.

Read about the game here.

4. Ryan Riedel, LB, Cabell Midland High School (WV)

Ryan Riedel and the Cabell Midland defense limited Capital to 263 of total offense but still lost 31 – 29 Friday night.

Read about the game here.

5. Antonio Wells, DE, Magna Vista High School (VA)

Magna Vista stayed perfect on the season, defeating Tunstall 62 – 7 Friday night.

For a video review of the game click here.

6. Matt Cincotta, LS/LB, Charlotte Catholic High School (NC)

Long snapper Matt Cincotta helped Charlotte Catholic to a big 48 – 26 win over Berry Academy as he found his target on all field goal and punt attempts.

Read about the game here.

7. Cameron Dees, OL, Armwood High School (FL)

Armwood had no trouble disposing Strawberry Crest 80 – 0 Friday night. Rated the nations 16th best high school football team by MaxPreps.com, Armwood extended its scoreless quarter streak to 24 during the victory.

Read about the game here.

C-USA Football: Week 7 round up

For a full review of last weeks action in C-USA football click here.

Standings:

East Division
Marshall: 3-4 (2-1)
ECU: 2-4 (2-1)
USM: 5-1 (1-1)
UCF: 3-3 (1-1)
Memphis: 1-6 (0-3)
UAB: 0-6 (0-3)

West Division
SMU: 5-1 (3-0)
Houston: 6-0 (2-0)
Tulsa: 3-3 (2-0)
UTEP: 3-3 (1-2)
Tulane: 2-5 (1-2)
Rice: 2-4 (1-2)

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/17/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Like it or not Herd sticking with two QB’s

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110160155

From the Charleston Gazette, Houston 19th in BCS rankings

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/16/houston-19th-in-bcs-rankings/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Curry electric in win as Herd’s offense still one-dimensional

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110160120

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Graham helps Herd put end to drought

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110160116

From the Herald Dispatch, MU coming together in the clutch

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556234282/With-explosive-Houston-on-tap-MU-coming-together-in-the-clutch

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: Warner takes advantage of 2nd chance

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556234284/Andrew-Ramspacher-Warner-takes-advantage-of-2nd-chance

From the Herald Dispatch, Southern Miss volleyball sweeps Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556234278/Southern-Miss-volleyball-sweeps-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall basketball: Former player praises talent

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556234066/Former-player-praises-talent

From the Herald Dispatch, South Carolina snaps Herd win streak, 3-1

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556234068/South-Carolina-snaps-Herd-win-streak-3-1

Marshall Football: Herd beats Rice on homecoming 24-20

Behind first time starting quarterback A.J Graham (122 rushing yards and 2 TD's) and the inspired play of senior defensive end Vinny Curry, Marshall defeated Rice 24 - 20 Saturday afternoon. The win pushes Marshall's record to 3-4 overall and 2-1 in conference play.

For a box score of today's game click here.

For video of Marshall head coach Doc Holliday's post game press conference click here.

Marshall Football: Offical visitors for 10/15/11

Per Chuck McGill of the Charleston Daily Mail the following high school football players are making an official visit to Marshall today.

1. Josh Murriel, OL, Port St. Lucie High School (FL)

Josh Muriel is a 6'5, 302 lbs offensive lineman from Port St. Lucie High School. Rivals.com rates Murriel as a three star prospect. Besides Marshall, Murriel also has scholarship from Memphis, New Mexico State, and Georgia State.

2. Kent Turene, LB, Atlanta Sports Academy (GA)

Coming out of high school Kent Turene accepted a scholarship to the University of Georgia. Turene failed to qualify academically for the Bulldogs and is spending 2011 at the Atlanta Sports Academy, a prep school. At 6'3, 230 lbs Turene is a physical presence at linebacker.

3. Corey Tindal, CB, Atlanta Sports Academy (GA)

Another visitor from the Atlanta Sports Academy, Corey Tindal is a 5'10, 175 lbs, corner back. Tindal committed to FIU coming out of Florida's Boyd Anderson high school but failed to qualify. AS a high school senior Tindal was rated a three star prospect by Rivals.com.

4. Andre Scott, S, Oak Ridge High School (FL)

Andre Scott is a 5'11, 175 pound safety from Oak Ridge High School (FL). Rated a three star prospect by Rivals.com , Scott has scholarship offers from Marshall, Cincinnati, UCF, Tennessee, and Purdue.

5. Rayshawn Jackson, WR, Oak Ridge High School (FL)

Marshall's second visitor from Oak Ridge High School, Rayshawn Jacskon is a 5'10, 175 pound wide receiver. Besides Marshall, Jackson has scholarship offers from Memphis, Temple, and Washington State.

A few initial details on C-USA/MWC merger

A few initial details on the football association between Conference USA and the Mountain West.

Partnership between both leagues football schools may not begin until 2013.

Association will sport a two division model in the first year, could split into smaller divisions in the future.

No official word if champion from MWC / C-USA will earn an automatic BCS bowl birth.

Press release from C-USA/MWC on football merger

Official press release issued jointly from Conference USA and the Mountain West conference on agreement in principle to to consolidate their member football programs into one large association:

http://conferenceusa.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/101411aai.html

IRVING, Texas/COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The Mountain West Conference and Conference USA have unanimously come to an agreement in principle to consolidate their member football programs into one large association.

Commissioners of the two leagues formulated this creative and innovative plan with the support of the presidents, chancellors and athletics directors. The 12 members of Conference USA and 10 football-playing members of the Mountain West will join forces for this strategic landmark in college football.

"The role of a conference is to provide its members with the best possible environment in which to conduct their intercollegiate athletics programs," said Mountain West Commissioner Craig Thompson. "Rather than await changes in membership due to realignment, it became clear the best way to serve our institutions was to pursue an original concept. The Mountain West and C-USA share a number of similarities, and the creative merger of our football assets firmly positions our respective members for the future."

"The potential of this association is very exciting," Conference USA Commissioner Britton Banowsky said. "By taking an innovative approach, we feel we can offer tremendous opportunities for exposure and stability without breaking up the regional rivalries that truly make up the college football tradition."

UNLV President and Mountain West Board of Directors Chair Neal Smatresk said, "In an era of uncertainty in intercollegiate athletics, this collaborative partnership with C-USA lends stability and credibility to our collective football enterprise. We are excited about the prospect of having teams in five time zones and the many possibilities created by this extremely bold and proactive step."

Conference USA Board of Directors Chair and Tulane president Scott Cowen said, "We are very pleased to be moving forward with the Mountain West Conference on this high potential, unique partnership. Together, we will better position our conferences and member universities for the future with its appeal and its reach across the United States."

The current 22 members are located in 16 different states, offering a prospective 16-hour window for competition. Conference USA has existing television partnerships with Fox Sports and CBS Sports, as well as ESPN for its championship game. The Mountain West has partnerships with CBS Sports and Comcast/NBC Universal.

The two conferences will merge into a separate football-only entity without affecting their status within the NCAA structure.

C-USA / MWC set press conference, 6:30pm EDT

The Mountain West and Conference USA are set to hold a joint press conference at 6:30pm EDT today. Presumably, the press conference is to announce a football only merger in which both leagues champion would play in a championship game, hopefully garnering an automatic BCS bowl birth.

More details to follow.

Marshall Football: News from Rice

A collection of articles on Rice football leading up to tomorrows game:

From the Houston Chronicle, Rice striving to learn to win on the road

http://www.chron.com/sports/rice/article/Rice-striving-to-learn-to-win-on-the-road-2213960.php

From Riceowls.com, Six Owls Earn Phil Steele Midseason Honors

http://www.riceowls.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/101311aaa.html

From the Houston Examiner, Rice Owls Football: Head coach David Bailiff pleased with defensive progress

http://www.examiner.com/college-football-in-houston/rice-owls-football-head-coach-david-bailiff-pleased-with-defensive-progress

From Fox Sports Houston, Owls' defensive line putting hurt on opponents

http://www.foxsportshouston.com/10/10/11/Owls-defensive-line-putting-hurt-on-oppo/landing_rice.html?blockID=579200&feedID=7350

From the Bellaire Examiner, Rice offense must improve

http://www.yourhoustonnews.com/bellaire/sports/college-football-commentary-rice-offense-must-improve-houston-deserves-a/article_7dc09fa1-c63b-5662-9deb-16c88cf6e624.html

From Riceowls.com, Transcript: Football Press Conference

http://www.riceowls.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/101011aab.html

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/14/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herrion likes high expectations being placed on Herd

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110130308

From the Charleston Gazette, Depth playing dividends for Owls

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110130305

From the Charleston Gazette, Some Herrion outtakes

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/13/some-herrion-outtakes/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall alum to parachute into stadium

http://www.dailymail.com/News/statenews/201110130235

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Excitement surrounds Herrion, Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110130298

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: YouTube sensation McGuffie took a different route to Rice

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110130206

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Herd backfield has end zone blues

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110130203

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herrion’s humor

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/13/herrions-humor/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Video: Tom Herrion at Media Day

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/13/video-tom-herrion-at-media-day/

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd faces hopeful Rice

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063953/Owls-looking-to-relive-08-glory

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: Herd will have to deal with Rice DE

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063955/Herd-will-have-to-deal-with-Rice-DE

From the Herald Dispatch, Seniors address expectations at MU basketball Media Day

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063951/Seniors-address-expectations-at-MU-basketball-Media-Day

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women's soccer, volleyball teams hit the road

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063957/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, David Walsh: 40th Young Thundering Herd reunion time to reflect

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063965/40th-Young-Thundering-Herd-reunion-time-to-reflect

From the Herald Dispatch, Chadwick eager for season to begin

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063959/Chadwick-eager-for-season-to-begin

From HerdZone.com, Herd Has Six Named to Phil Steele's Mid-Season All-Conference Teams

http://www.herdzone.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/101311aab.html

From the WV Metro News, The Stampede with Dave Wilson

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=48498

C-USA football preview, week seven

For the first time this season Conference USA school’s will only be playing member institutions. Besides Houston and Southern Mississippi, who both have by weeks, every other C-USA school will be playing a conference opponent.

For a preview of this weeks match-ups follow this link.

Standings:

East Division
UCF: 3-2 (1-0)
Marshall: 2-4 (1-1)
USM: 5-1 (1-1)
ECU: 1- 4 (1-1)
Memphis: 1-5 (0-2)
UAB: 0-5 (0-2)

West Division
Houston: 6-0 (2-0)
SMU: 4-1 (2-0)
Tulsa: 2-3 (1-0)
Rice: 2-3 (1-1)
Tulane: 2-4 (1-1)
UTEP: 2-3 (0-2)

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/13/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Browns high tackle totals not a bad thing for Herd

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110121808

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd defense progressing as team preps for Rice

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110121800

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Preseason C-USA team is hollow without Pitts

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110121798

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall sports chat transcript

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/12/chat-with-me-if-youre-into-that-sort-of-thing/

From the Herald Dispatch, (subscription) MU gets OK on bond resolution

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/x1556233309/HEPC-gives-MU-green-light-on-bond-resolution

From the Herald Dispatch, Graham could help ground game

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233327/RUNNING-MAN

From the Herald Dispatch, MU Football notebook: Rippon pleased with defensive progress

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233329/Rippon-pleased-with-defensive-progress

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: No loss if Knights move to Big East

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233323/No-loss-if-Knights-move-to-Big-East

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall soccer extends win streak to eight

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233331/Marshall-soccer-extends-win-streak-to-eight

From the Herald Dispatch, Rick McCann: Practice begins Friday for Herd hoops

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233325/Practice-begins-Friday-for-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, (subscription) Marshall AD to check on claim about grades

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x1386063433/Marshall-AD-to-check-on-claim-about-grades

From the WV Metro News, Marshall To Move Forward On New Campus Projects

http://www.wvmetronews.com/news.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=48474

Orlando Sentinel interview with C-USA Commissioner

The Orlando Sentinel has published an exclusive interview with Conference USA commissioner Britton Banowsky touching on realignment and the much rumored C-USA / MWC football merger.

Click here to read.

Marshall Football: Be patient as Doc stays the course

Something happens to Herd fans when Marshall losses to Central Florida in football. I am not to sure what to call it but symptoms include doubt, short sightedness, and last but not least panic.

Last season UCF came to Marshall for a mid-week game and won a thunder delayed contest 35 -14. The loss dropped Marshall to 1 – 5 and people started to wonder if Doc Holliday was the right guy in Huntington. After the game I did some soul searching, how long would it take for Marshall to compete in C-USA? I figured it would take three seasons, and wrote a lengthy column about it here. Despite another loss to ECU the following week Marshall showed resolve the rest of 2010. Doc Holliday and the Thundering Herd finished on a 4 -1 tear, only losing at C-USA west division champion SMU.

After last weeks loss to UCF Marshall fans started to question Holliday’s decision making again. Why are you bench freshman quarterback Rakeem Cato? Why continue to run the same offense? What I would like to tell Herd fans is this, Holliday has a clear vision for Marshall’s football program, lets give him more than eighteen games to execute it.

Let me be very clear, Holliday did not bench Cato for on field performance. Holliday can’t come out and say it that way, instead he is relegated to vague answers like this "We've got certain standards and expectations that we expect every player to live up to and if they don't they sit and watch with me and the other guys play,". Read between the lines, did Holliday mention Cato’s difficult transition to the read option or his turnover ratio? No, the only thing he mentioned was standards, so what standards could Holliday be talking about? During the UCF game, cameras caught a visibly upset Cato talking on the phone to co-offensive coordinator Tony Peterson. I don’t know what was said during that conversation but I am 100% sure it lead to Cato’s benching. I think Cato made a freshman mistake and talked to his position coach in a derogatory manner, his punishment, on the bench to start this weeks game. Holliday has a clear set of rules for his program, if you break those rules there are repercussions. Besides, Cato’s benching might only be temporary, Holliday said he would play this week. Given all of that I don’t understand my fellow Herd fans slamming Holliday for having Cato start the six toughest games of 2011 only to bench him in favor of A.J Graham. It just dose not add up.

Marshall’s offense is predicated on the zone read option, offensive coordinator Bill Legg talked about it in detail here. If you are not familiar with the zone read option take a minute and review this excellent write up by the Charleston Daily Mails Chuck McGill. Being a true freshman Cato only had August practice before his first college start and it has hindered his understating of the zone read. In a Herald Dispatch article Cato admitted his high school rushing plays involved handing off to this guy and watching him run. Marshall’s system is a little bit more complicated and Cato has understandably struggled. Marshall has tweaked its zone read to better suite its personnel. At Louisville the Herd employed a three man diamond set in the backfield. That formation helped MU to it's best rushing performance of 2011. Adjustments like the ones made against Louisville make sense, abandoning an entire offensive system does not.

Like I wrote after last years UCF game we all need to take a step back and let coach Holliday operate his program. We are eighteen games into a clear and defined plan, lets give Holliday time to execute it.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/12/11

From the Charleston Gazette, A.J handed the keys

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110113819

From the Charleston Gazette, Jim Hynus passes away

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/10/12/jim-hynus-passes-away/

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd picked to finish second in C-USA basketball

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110113827

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Decision to play left to Curry

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110113425

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Graham replaces Cato as starting QB

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110113389

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Discussion: Graham gets nod for softer part of sched, so …

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/10/12/discussion-graham-gets-nod-for-softer-part-of-sched-so/

From the Herald Dispatch, Doc benches Cato for Rice game

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233067/Doc-benches-Cato-for-Rice-game

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd games in C-USA TV deal

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063439/Herd-games-in-C-USA-TV-deal

From the Herald Dispatch, Holliday says offense similar to Southern Miss

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233069/Holliday-MUs-offense-similar-to-Southern-Miss

From the Herald Dispatch, Men’s soccer team host Shawnee State

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233071/Mens-soccer-team-hosting-Shawnee-State

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall talk of C-USA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233053/Marshall-is-talk-of-C-USA

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Marshall still hasn't scored a rushing TD

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556233063/Marshall-still-hasnt-scored-a-rushing-TD

From the WV Metro News, Marshall should never forget Russell Lee

http://www.wvmetronews.com/sports.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=48441&type=Frank

Marshall Football: Doc Holliday press conference 10/11/11

Video of Marshall football head coach Doc Holliday’s weekly press conference can be found here. In the press conference Holliday discusses Rakeem Cato’s benching and Saturday’s game against Rice.

Marshall Football: Camron Dees verbally commits to Herd

Camron Dees, a 6’2, 280 pound offensive lineman from Armwood High School (FL) has verbally committed to Marshall University. Rivals.com rates Dees a three star prospect and the 16th best center in the class of 2012. As a junior Dees was selected second team all All-Hillsborough County by the Tampa Tribune. Besides Marshall, Dees also had offers from Florida International, Ohio, New Mexico, and Deleware.

For more on Dees follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile.

Scout.com profile.

ESPN.com profile.

ESPN.com article on Dees (subscription).

ESPN.com video.

YouTube.com video.

Marshall Football: A.J Graham to start at QB vs. Rice

Per the Twitter account of WSAZ sports anchor Keith Morehouse, redshirt sophomore A.J Graham will start at quarterback for Marshall against Rice on Saturday.

Freshman Rakeem Cato has started Marshall's previous six games, completing 97 passes on 176 attempts for 1,074 yards with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions. Graham, who will be making his first career start, has appeared in one game this season, completing two passes on eight attempts for 43 yards against Ohio.

You can find Morehouse’s Twitter account here.

Marshall in the NFL, week 5

Weekly review of Marshall Alumni in the NFL:

1. Ahmad Bradshaw, Running Back, New York Giants

Ahmad Bradshaw carried the whole rushing load for New York with Brandon Jacobs sitting out with a injury. Bradshaw rushed 17 times for 58 yards, he also caught two passes for 27 yards. New York lost to Seattle 36 – 25.

2. C.J Spillman, Safety, San Francisco 49ers

C.J Spillman recorded one special teams tackle during San Francisco’s 48 – 3 win over Tampa Bay.

3. Chris Crocker, Safety, Cincinnati Bengals

Chris Crocker had a quite game during the Bengals 30 – 20 win over Jacksonville, recording one tackle and one pass defended.

4. Doug Legursky, Guard/Center, Pittsburgh Steelers

Starting at left guard for the first time in his career Doug Legursky helped the Steelers to a 38 – 17 win over Tennessee.

5. Byron Lefwich, Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers*

* On injured reserved, broken arm.

6. Albert McClellan, Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens

Bye week.

7. Lee Smith, Tight End, Buffalo Bills

For the second week in a row Lee Smith was on Buffalo’s game day roster. During the Bills 31 – 24 win over Philadelphia Smith recorded his first NFL stat, a special teams tackle.

Report: A.J Graham gets first team snaps at QB

Per an article by Herald Dispatch columnist Chuck Landon, redshirt sophomore quarterback A.J Graham took all of the first team snaps during Marshall’s Sunday practice. Freshman Rakeem Cato has started all six of Marshall’s games this season, completing 97 passes on 176 attempts for 1,074 yards with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions. Graham has appeared in one game this year, completing two passes on eight attempts for 43 yards against Ohio.

Read the article here.

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/11/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Pass the Cupcakes

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110103425

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd’s Kane named to C-USA first team

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110103432

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall player's family wants probe of arrest

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110111612

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Toughest part of schedule is behind Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110102930

From the Herald Dispatch, Six down, six to go

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1824571001/Six-down-six-to-go

From the Herald Dispatch, Kane gets C-USA first team honors

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1386063163/Dre-Kane-on-All-C-USA-preseason-first-team

From the Herald Dispatch, MU's Kerns is Co-Defensive Player of the Week in C-USA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556232863/MUs-Kerns-is-Co-Defensive-Player-of-the-Week-in-C-USA

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: Breaking down Marshall's second half opponents game by game

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556232861/Andrew-Ramspacher-Breaking-down-Marshalls-second-half-opponents-game-by-game

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: Herd hits midway point at 2-4; is there progress from last season?

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1556232859/Herd-hits-midway-point-at-2-4-is-there-progress-from-last-season

Condolences to Vinny Curry

Per the twitter account of Herald Dispatch columnist Chuck Landon, the mother of Vinny Curry, a senior defensive end on Marshall’s football team, has passed away.

Last week Landon wrote a column on how Curry had been affected by his mother illness, you can read it here.

The prayers of the Marshall Thundering Blog and all Marshall supports go out to the Curry family during their time of need.

Marshall Basketball: DeAndre Kane named All C-USA first team

Marshall sophomore shooting guard DeAndre Kane has been named to C-USA’s all preseason first team basketball squad. Kane was named C-USA’s freshman of the year in 2010-2011 while averaging 15.1 points, 3.4 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game.

Read the press release from C-USA here.

Marshall Basketball: Andy Katz analyzes Herd’s chances in C-USA

Andy Katz of ESPN talks to three different Conference USA basketball coaches including Marshall’s own Tom Herrion, about the Herd’s chances to compete for a conference championship this season. Read it here.

Air Force AD: BCS bid for C-USA / Mountain West champion “a real stretch”

In a interview with ESPN’s Andy Katz, Air Force athletic director Hans Mueh said the speculated football merger by the Mountain West and Conference USA producing a BCS automatic bid was “a real stretch”.

It has been reported that Air Force will accept an invitation to put its football program in the Big East while its other sports move to the WAC or Missouri Valley Conference.

Read the article here.

Marshall Football: Verbal Commitment Watch, Week 8

1. Tyler Combs, OL, Lawrence County High School (KY)

Sorry to report I can’t find any thing but a score for Lawrence County’s game at Pike County Central. Tyler Combs and the Bulldogs fell to Pike Central 42 - 14

2. Devon Johnson, LB/RB, Richlands High School (VA)

In another strong performance Devon Johnson lead Richlands with 166 rushing yards on 15 carries and three touchdowns. Through the air Johnson recorded two catches for 19 yards and another touchdown. Richlands defeated Marion 49 – 0 to remain undefeated.

You can read about the game here.

3. Trenton Norvell, QB, Seabreeze High School (FL)

Trenton Norvell and the Seabreeze Sandcrabs defeated Groveland South Lake 42 – 28 last Friday night.

Read about the game here.

4. Ryan Riedel, LB, Cabell Midland High School (WV)

Limiting Winfield to just 265 yards of total offense Ryan Ridel and Cabell Midland defeated the Generals 20 – 13.

Read about the game here.

5. Antonio Wells, DE, Magna Vista High School (VA)

Magna Vista and Antonio Wells cruised to a 64 – 13 win over Patrick County Friday night.

Read about Magna Vista’s win here.

6. Matt Cincotta, LS/LB, Charlotte Catholic High School (NC)

Charlotte Catholic recorded a big 49 – 0 win over Harding Friday night. Long snapper Matt Cincotta found his target on every field goal and punt attempt.

Read about the game here.

C-USA Football: Week 6 round up

For a full review of last weeks football action in Conference USA visit this link:

http://conferenceusa.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/100811aac.html

Standings:

East Division

UCF: 3-2 (1-0)
Marshall: 2-4 (1-1)
USM: 5-1 (1-1)
ECU: 1- 4 (1-1)
Memphis: 1-5 (0-2)
UAB: 0-5 (0-2)

West Division

Houston: 6-0 (2-0)
SMU: 4-1 (2-0)
Tulsa: 2-3 (1-0)
Rice: 2-3 (1-1)
Tulane: 2-4 (1-1)
UTEP: 2-3 (0-2)

Today's Marshall University Athletic News: 10/10/11

From the Charleston Gazette, From here MU won’t face super defenses

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201110093133

From the Charleston Daily Mail, First play set tone for Central Florida's rainy day win over Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201110092764

From the Herald Dispatch, Hype only motivates Dre Kane

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1556232457/Hype-only-motivates-Dre-Kane

From the Herald Dispatch, Andrew Ramspacher: Curry making strong case for player of year award

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1556232667/Andrew-Ramspacher-Curry-making-strong-case-for-player-of-year-award

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall, Mustangs battle to 1-1 draw

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1556232465/Marshall-Mustangs-battle-to-1-1-draw

From the Herald Dispatch, Volleyball team defeated by Rice

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1556232463/No-Headline

Marshall Football: UCF drops Herd 16 – 6

In a rain soaked contest Marshall, 2-4 (1-1), lost it’s first conference game of the year 16 – 6 to UCF 3-2 (1-0).

Story on the game can be found here.

Video of Doc Holliday’s post game press conference here.

Report: UCF & ECU to be invited to Big East

Per a report by Cincinnati Enquirer writer Bill Koch, Conference USA members East Carolina and Central Florida will be invited to join the Big East.

Read the report here.

Marshall Football: News from Central Florida

A collection of articles on UCF football leading up to tomorrows game:

From the Orlando Sentnel, UCF aims to jump-start passing attack against Marshall

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2011-10-06/sports/os-ucf-wide-receivers-1007-20111006_1_sophomore-quarterback-jeff-godfrey-ucf-coach-george-o-leary-ucf-senior-receiver

From the Orlando Sentinel, UCF quarterback Jeff Godfrey says Knights are hungry for a win

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/os-ucf-football-news-1006-20111005,0,6072910.story

From the Orlando Sentinel, UCF coach George O'Leary takes responsibility for mistakes, says Knights are improving

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/knights/os-ucf-improvement-asf-1004-20111004,0,1517498.story

From the Orlando Sentinel, UCF coach says J.J. Worton will remain Knights' punt returner despite fumble

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/knights/os-ucf-football-news-1005-20111004,0,4606895.story

From the Orlando Sentinel, UCF focuses on improvement, not upcoming C-USA games

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/knights/os-ucf-football-news-0930-20110929,0,3815883.story

From the Orlando Sentinel, UCF senior Adam Nissley aims to help Knights snap out of slump

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/knights/os-ucf-football-adam-nissley-0928-20110927,0,3496057.story

From the Orlando Sentinel, UCF coaches focus on fixing special-teams unit during bye week

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/knights/os-ucf-football-news-0927-20110926,0,7485902.story

From the Orlando Sentinel, UCF football: Frustrated Knights focused on improving during bye week

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/knights/os-ucf-football-bye-week-0925-20110924,0,6899449.story

From Florida Today, For UCF, back to work

http://www.floridatoday.com/article/20111006/SPORTS/110060304/For-UCF-back-work