I appreciate the optimism, but you just get done telling me to give the guy a chance (zero coaching experience previously) and then go on to tell about your head coach and his experiences and knowledge from his career. I'm not asking for a World Series MVP here, but somewhere in the middle would be nice.

I haven't posted in a while or really much at all, but congrats to the Cats on their playoff wins.

I also needed a venue to express my displeasure with Whitworth's choice for their new head baseball coach.

http://www.whitworth.edu/Athletics/Teams/Baseball/Releases/2008/Ramsay.htm

I heard there were a number of applicants interested in the job,  and it is really disappointing as an alum to see this decision. I don't see how they expect the baseball program to be competitive with this choice.

Bitter Kitty Fans,

When are you going to come to the realization that is was not the "miracle in the mud" but rather the choke of the year in D3 football. You guys hold onto the ball you win, so don't spin it like it's our fault you lost. Also, why not give Allan (a D3 player) some props here guys. Just because the all holy Brett Elliott didn't get invited don't hold it against Allan.

Field does look phenomenal. It's a shame Clark, Allen, and Co.  are going to scorch it on Saturday.

Whitworth D definately gets the nod here. Not only do they have the best D in the NWC but they are coming off a great game against UPS (2nd quarter on). Oxy hasn't turned the ball over much this year, but they also haven't seen any defensive playmakers like Whitworth has.  The 3 players with the most interceptions in the NWC are all in the Bucs secondary with a total of 20.  Oxy's pass D is rated last in the SIAC and gave up more yards per game than ANYONE. But sure, I can see how you can give them the advantage on D.

Oxy Bob,

Slim, none, and fat? Heard it was a barn burner. Parents said it was a great game, but also said that the Oxy fans were sub par in their sportsmanship. Don't worry, we won't stoop to that level when you guys come up here. But tell your guys to bring their long undies, cause its gonna be cold for So. Cal standards.  I'd also like to throw some props out to my little bro for scoring his first collegiate TD against you guys this weekend. Whittier puts up 30 against you at home?? We're welcoming you with open arms.

Oxy fans, I'm just trying to throw Whittier some props because my brother plays for them. Good luck this weekend, but I'm sticking with my pick.

Hatchet: UPS gives up 19 points to Whittier 26 to Willamette, and 32 to PLU, and you have the Pirates scoring only 21 at home in a conference championship clinching game on  senior day?? After beating the kitties on the road the week before?  No respect.

Oxy,

Score by Quarters     1  2  3  4   Score
-----------------             -- -- -- --   -----
Occidental..........       7 14  0  7    28
Whittier............         0  7 13  0    20

Slim, fat, and none eh?

OXY BOB,

Off subject, but Whittier with a huge upset this weekend over Oxy. Played you real tough last season and are coming off a big home victory vs. Redlands.

Classic Kitty,

Despite the sub freezing temperatures in the 509, I hear the Bucs had tremendous practices this week. That means the predicted temp of 58 degrees for Saturday's game is going to be a blessing for us. Perfect weather for the plundering of the "catdome" by the pirates. ARRGGHHH.

Go BUCS.

First post of the season and I have to say that I am loving the posts from both sides of the ball. I had a question for the cat fans out there. I will be making the journey this weekend from Spokane with a number of friends and we're wondering what the tailgating situation is like down there. Is there an area for fans to gather, hang out, and enjoy a few beverages before the game?

On another note, I am really enjoying how nervous the Kittie fans are about this weekend. I can smell the fear of the entire town on Mcminnville all the way over here in the 509. 

Game prediction:

Bucs-33 Kitties-31.

You guys have no way to stop Allen and Clark has really improved on his passing efficiency (interceptions is the only thing that cost us the game last year). Also, while your D might  be "salty" ours is actually fast and athletic.

GO BUCS!