Hey Guys...Happy Almost Autumn.  Here's my feeble attempt at a pre-season MIAA prediction:

Defense dominant teams:  Adrian, Olivet, and TU (team which improves offense most will rise)
Offense dominant teams:  Alma. Albion, and Hope (team which improves defense most will rise)

RANK:
1) ADRIAN- Look for a re-adjusted dawg offense to finally compliment their high caliber defense.  The team to beat.
2) ALMA- Well tuned scoring machine.  Does need an improved defense to battle for crown
3) ALBION- My sleeper pick- balanced.  Last year a transition...can't keep down good coaching and tradition..
4) HOPE- Perennial power takes a breather with the loss of some motivational seniors
5) TU- New move to a pass dominant spread-offense needs a year to jell.
6) OLIVET- Defense cannot score enough points to make up for a thinning offense.
7) KZOO- Hornets need to find a way to maximize the minimum...depth. 

I could be wrong

Quote from: HOF on December 04, 2007, 09:21:18 PM
...any of the MIAA guys get any head jobs yet?

A little personal eh HOF? 

Picking up on an earlier thread - "the challenges facing Kalamazoo College football"  let me elaborate (with social commentary) on another obstacle facing the Hornet program.  Here's one for the Stinger.

Back in my school days (late '60s-early '70's) the U of M games were filled, but a different crowd than today.  They seemed to be comprised of more students, alum, and locals.  The MAC (my conference) had trouble filling stadiums, and I was told MIAA attendance was often less than most high schools then.

Today, I've seen college football (even NFL) take on an almost "festival-like" quality.  They have become "events" beyond the game itself.  Popular culture has embraced the experience as a social obligation that has now attracted more fair-weather fans as well as the non-fans.  The NFL and D1 have witnessed the usual sell-out crowds followed by the second quarter exodus of  these social-fans seeking the comfort of resturants and bars with the satisfaction of "I was there".  This has been great financially for schools and their programs, though they have to enter the "arms race" of facilities to attract this new consumer...which in turn enhances recruiting.

Now, to Kalamazoo College.  Unfortunately, they are the only MIAA team that has to share their city with a D1 program - WMU (across the street).  In the other MIAA cities D3 is the "big game" in town.  WMU has gone wild with facilities and the successful marketing of the "big college game in town".  This has pulled away all the potential social-fans (as noted above) that would have been attracted to K-College games if it was the only college gig in town.  This leaves K-College with only a fan base of parents and alum.  To try to enter into a facilities competition with WMU would be futile.  I salute Kalamazoo College on their commitment to uphold a historic football program against unique challenges not found at other MIAA schools.  Long may they run.           

Thanks for your added knowledge on transfer DutchFan, ADAWG, and SAC.

LetItRain:  My son was not playing at TSU, though I wish he had been because he was a very successful RB at the collegiate level.  I believe that is the one area the Thunder needs to improve upon next year in order to take it to the next level.  Their defense was outstanding, and their new QB shows promise, but their RBs could only muster about 3.0 yrd average and  about 40 yrds a game.  Compare this to the conference elite teams and it becomes obvious you need a reliable breakaway run threat to dominate.  This would also help to relieve the pressure off of our passing game which ranked last in the league due to this fact.  I really don't believe it is a roster problem as much as the odd wing-t set up they run (1 lone blocking back, and two split backs flanked near the tackles).  Reminds me of the time Dallas attempted to use the QB option in the NFL...fancy but just not productive.  If the Thunder can strengthen the run game-watch out next year!  My curiosity on tansfering was wondering how frequently MIAA teams gained needed positions by this process and if it was a difficult process.

How do you guys assess the needs of your teams next year?  (with depth and loss of seniors).

It was a 90 degree September Saturday when we were introduced to a definite playoff football team.  The Griz were in mid-season form on both sides of the ball.  What amazed me the most about Franklin was their almost perfect play calling.  If this is the Franklin you guys know better than I, they will be a dangerous playoff opponent.

Franklin's campus was like a rock concert for that home-opener, I can't imagine what it will be like this Saturday.  Truely enjoyed the HCAC football atmosphere at both Manchester and Franklin...classic college football.

Bring it Grizzlies!

D3DB- Thanks for the info.

ADAWG- You nailed the MVP's.

Post-season question?

I realize this question may have answered at length on this board before my time...and I have viewed the NCAA's +30 page document on it...but, if a simple explaination is possible...What is the transfer conditions between MIAA schools?  If an athelete played football and remained eligible at the end of the Fall semester...could he play football for another MIAA school next Fall, assuming he either finished the Winter semester at the original school or a junior college meeting the required credits and 2.0 average?  And...does this happen often in the MIAA?

However, as portrayed in a 1960's Underdog episode, the first Thanksgiving almost never happened.  Evil Simon Barsinister, who despised Thanksgiving parades, used his time-machine to return to the first Thanksgiving to start a fight between the Pilgrims and Indians.  Fortunately, Underdog foiled his plans.

Sorry guys, couldn't help but notice your interesting Thanksgiving posts.  Thought I might add a little popular culture to the American history.  That's not to suggest Underdog as a new name for BP.

Good Luck in the playoffs, and have a great holiday season.

Way to Go OLIVET!  Bring your "A" game to Iowa and win one for the Conference.  Beating two Dutch teams in one season is called a "Dutch Treat", so make Central "pay" for it.  Best Wishes Comets!

Uncle Rico- I agree Pearson should be D-MVP.  It would not suprise me if he also received all-American due to his national ranking.

My O-MVP would have to be Mackenzie McGrady, incredible passing and running ability ie. total offense.

Bulldogalum-In theory, your point is well taken.

D3DB- Thanks for the winter reading tip. 

D306:  Your point about Albion's coaching staff is well taken.  Of all of the MIAA coaches I've had the pleasure to meet, I've been most impressed with Albion's staff.  Not only friendly, but intelligent and sincere (no rah-rah hype) which comes with experience.  This speaks to their wisdom to assess talent and use it situationally that you spoke of earlier.  Could be the difference maker if Saturday's game is a close one.

*These two heavyweights will not take their opponents lightly (too much at stake):

HOPE over WLC - Dutchmen are too good to have two off games in a row.  Hope rolls on.

OLIVET over KZOO - Rock beats sirrors.  Olivet rolls on.

*Need to take out the chemistry set for these two (too many variables):

ALMA over ADRIAN - The Scots are very similar to the Brits, except more veterans.  This will be enough to out-pace Adrian.  If the Dawgs can deny Alma momentum opportunities they could edge by, once the Scots get the MOJO it's hard to contain them.

TSU over ALBION - Defense.  It's been the force behind every Thunder victory.  Undefeated at home and the season finale, the D should be (as Uncle Rico would say) "bringing it".  Some individual all-conference honors could also be at stake.  If Albion can play mistake free offense they could pull it out.  The deciding battle will be the Brit offense vs the Thunder defense.

Expect the unexpected, on another November 10th the unthinkable occurred - the powerful Edmund Fitzgerald went down.       

WLCALUM83:  I was not able to make it to last Saturday's game, but I heard the Warriors played TSU a lot tougher than the score indicated.  That's not bad considering you were without your top runner.  Let me join the others in wishing WLC the best in their new conference, it should be an exciting time.  We will be following the progress of WLC, a MIAA "favorite son" so to say.  Thanks for being part of MIAA history.

D306:  I agree with you.  TSU took a larger stride toward respectability than many had predicted, and Albion seems to be suprisingly less threatening.  I believe the Thunder's unexpected success is due to the quick maturation of their veteran defense, and the added flexibility of their new quarterback.  From what I can assess about Albion - they are a solid squad, but in the relative paridy of the MIAA they suffer from being "average" on both sides of the ball.  They have a good balance of talent on offense and defense, but either has aquired enough octane to secure a victory against the league leaders.  I find the upcoming TSU/Albion clash an interesting match-up.  TSU has a strong defensive advantage and Albion has the offensive edge (depending on their qb situation).  Late season has seen offenses score better against defenses, so I believe turnovers will ultimately decide the outcome.  The Thunder is undefeated at home which benefits TSU, but being the last game will help Albion overcome a bit of the home crowd effect.

Looking at this MIAA season it appears there is a 3 tier step in strength, yet they are small steps.  Hope, Alma, and Olivet are on the first tier, with no one team dominant.  On the second tier is TSU, Adrian, and Albion, each team played the first tier very competetively but lacked enough balance to pull it out.  The third tier is WLC and Kalamazoo, and each had played a tough game against a second tier opponent.  The potent offenses have been Hope, Alma, and Albion and the defensive strength has resided with Olivet, TSU, and Adrian.  "A very competetive season".

                     

Wins of November picked early:

ADRIAN over ALBION:  Albion has not fared well against strong defenses, yet Adrian has had success against weaker defenses.  I expect a "relatively" low scoring game (late season has seen offenses scoring more) with a two score advantage for the Dawgs.  (I do have a soft spot for the Brits though, historic flagship of the MIAA).

ALMA big over K-ZOO:  Ouch!  The Scots send a message that they warrant a rematch with Hope.

HOPE over OLIVET:  The Comets have suffered on the road and Saturday will not end their suffering.  This is the one the Dutch have been waiting for and they will not leave any doubt they are the elite of MIAA.

ANGOLA  over WLC:  The Thunder offense and defense will have a chance to boost their statistics as they face their easiest opponent of the season.  This could be a blow-out, especially if WLC's RB Hairl is still inactive.  Expect alot of AC/DC over Shive Field's loudspeakers.

This weekend I'll be stalking the elusive whitetail and will have to miss the game, but in the silence of the Michigan wilderness...perhaps I might hear the distant roar from an MIAA field.  Safe trip everyone and stay warm.  (whoever invented metal bleachers forgot about November)

Guys, blowin a little sunshine here...but...it's really been a pleasure talking with all of you on the board this season.  I wish I would have known of this site earlier, it has really added another dimension to following MIAA football.  I've actually gained a greater respect and fondness for MIAA rivals by getting to know you all.  Believe it or not...I have found myself saddened by an Adrian loss, and smiling at a Hope win (as long as TSU is not involved...I still have some dignity).  It sure has been a dramatic season so far.

Just a bit of politics...speaking of drama, watching the Hope/TSU game reminded me of the real sacrifice these athletes are making.  I've been privy to the recruiting practices in D2 football, which I assess as a pathetic effort at best.  Without going at length into the politics and sometimes outright laziness in the selection process, many of our athletes would excell at D2 schools and many D2 players would struggle in D3 programs.  An imperfect science.  Yet our athletes (many who were overlooked in the scholarship process of D2) had to make the tough decision of high tuition costs or possibly never to play football again.  More often than not it is the player and parents that in the end will struggle financially with their decision.  Finer educational and social experience...you bet and worth paying extra...but to many atheletes if not for the added incentive to continue in the game, the financial sacrifice might not have been made.  It's too bad D3 could not offer at least a 1/4 tuition athletic stipend to help relieve some of the economic burden which can be 3X greater cost than state schools.  There always seems to be enough money for facility upgrades to attract recruits, how about just a "little" relief for those who sacrifice so much for the love of the game.   

LetItRain: 
Sorry, I did not get your post in time, we left for Saugatuck Friday afternoon.  What a game!  Even though the Thunder came out on the short end, one thing I believe all TSU fans and all MIAA opponents can agree on - TSU plays all 4 quarters to win.  I was expecting a more low scoring 24-7 battle assuming both teams limited their mistakes,  instead TSU's turnovers, and Hope's penalties certainly boosted the offensive production of both. It is odd for the TSU defense to give up 45 points, and just as odd for the TSU offense to score 35 points.  Kind of a mixed blessing.

I believe this game established a new reality in both TSU athletics and the MIAA.  It was mentioned earlier in the season that there are an elite five teams in the MIAA that have a realistic shot at the crown every year.  Now there are six.  No conference foe has had it easy with TSU.  Our losses to Alma, Olivet, and Hope (undisputed leader) have been 4rth quarter struggles.  I would agree wholeheartedly, Uncle Rico, we could have the best defense and special teams in the conference.  TSU is no longer the "improving or young or maybe in the future" team.  They have arrived and are running with the big dogs now. 

Being the sober pragmatist I am, It was obvious at the game that the only thing that stands in the way of TSU and the MIAA crown is their ground game.  FB 101: establish the run and the pass will come (ie..Hope & Alma).  Unfortunately, our 3 yard run average lacks the yardage neccesary for consistent 1st downs.  This places greater reliance and pressure on the pass forcing shorter more dangerous between coverage routes.  I am confident Coach Land and his staff will make the needed adjustments in the off-season that can bring the MIAA crown closer to Angola. 

Two more - Six and four     Go Thunder!             

Ready for a wet, windy, and cold Saturday?  Regional forecasts are predicting 70% chance of showers (all day), 22 mph winds, and wind chill in the mid-40's.  "Any skyboxes still available at Hope's field?"

My soggy predictions: (bring your run game, weather will make the pass difficult - but watch out for those fumbles)

ADRIAN wins big over WLC.  The Dawgs a bit too much on both sides of the ball.  Also...not a good time to visit the Dawghouse...(bad mood..shhh)

ALBION outscores K-ZOO.  Brits have actually scored well this season, the battered K defense will not slow them down.  Hornets will gain some success on long pass, but not enough to outlast a more balanced Albion.

ALMA edges OLIVET. (tough call) The Scots have a more balanced offensive attack - plus the advantage of a qb that can run.  If the Alma defense keys on Olivet's reliance on the run, they could stay ahead of the Comets.  Now add the home field advantage, and the fact that Olivet has only played 2 away games.  The key to the game will be how well can Alma contain RB Clasgens.  He is a proven break-away runner and the Alma D has given up the big run in the past.  Clasgen's will score on 2 long runs...but 14 points isn't enough to beat Alma's 20+...this will be the strongest "conference" offense Olivet has faced.

HOPE solid over TSU.  (don't like to admit it)  Hope proved they can score consistently against a top defense last week, but what really puts them on top of the MIAA is their turnover ratio - they make few mistakes.  TSU needs those mistakes to fuel their struggling offense.  If Hope plays mistake free they could post the first shut-out in league play.  The Thunder D should be able to hold the Dutch to one score per quarter, less if the TSU offense can increase their time of possession.  (however, D3DB is right.  Hope cannot take this game lightly, an off-game with mistakes in ugly weather - the TSU defense could make it difficult to recover)

I'd say break out those warm blaze orange hunting clothes for the game...but it's too close to Hope's colors.