FB: Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association

[ADAWGISADAWG4LIFE]

Did anyone else read this article about Albion senior Julian Paksi?

http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS08/110300589/Until-final-snap-Albion-senior-puts-transplant-hold-football

Hope that he enjoys a long D3 playoff run this year as well.

Great story, had no idea that Albion had a guy with that much perseverance on the team, really puts everything in perspective and shows the true love of the game thats present at the DIII level.

On another note, what does anyone think the odds are of the MIAA placing two teams in the playoffs, assuming Adrian can win out and finish 9-1? I know in the past this has been a reach to assume there would be two strong teams from the MIAA that could make it, but Adrian (if they win out) will only have one loss in the region, to Albion and Albion will also only have one loss in the region. As an Adrian guy Im curious if this situation could play out assuming Adrian takes care of business the next two weeks. Anyone else have anything to offer one way or the other on the idea?

[Uncle Rico]

Did anyone else read this article about Albion senior Julian Paksi?

http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS08/110300589/Until-final-snap-Albion-senior-puts-transplant-hold-football

Hope that he enjoys a long D3 playoff run this year as well.

Great story, had no idea that Albion had a guy with that much perseverance on the team, really puts everything in perspective and shows the true love of the game thats present at the DIII level.

On another note, what does anyone think the odds are of the MIAA placing two teams in the playoffs, assuming Adrian can win out and finish 9-1? I know in the past this has been a reach to assume there would be two strong teams from the MIAA that could make it, but Adrian (if they win out) will only have one loss in the region, to Albion and Albion will also only have one loss in the region. As an Adrian guy Im curious if this situation could play out assuming Adrian takes care of business the next two weeks. Anyone else have anything to offer one way or the other on the idea?

Adrian DOES have a couple of non-conference wins against .500 or better teams, so perhaps those odds are not so bad.  And I believe the MIAA in general has done a little bit better than in the past from a non-conference perspective.  I would like to see it happen.

The only caveat I would like to throw in to your scenario is what effect it would have if Trine beats Albion.  Or if DePauw beats Albion, for that matter.  Will that make Adrian's loss to Albion look worse, even though Adrian beat Trine?  I am not sure what the "national" perspective of Trine is right now, even though they are 6-2 and COULD finish 8-2.  (yep, I am biased).  If you are an Adrian fan you want Albion to win out.

All this thinking is hurting my head.  I better go back to work where I do not have to think any more.   

[MasterJedi]

Yes, let them in please, then send them to UWW if you would be so kind!   

[Uncle Rico]

Yes, let them in please, then send them to UWW if you would be so kind!   

Yes, I understand there would be a little more intensity to this game if it were to happen based on past scheduling issues.   

[Raider 68]

Did anyone else read this article about Albion senior Julian Paksi?

http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS08/110300589/Until-final-snap-Albion-senior-puts-transplant-hold-football

Hope that he enjoys a long D3 playoff run this year as well.

Great story, had no idea that Albion had a guy with that much perseverance on the team, really puts everything in perspective and shows the true love of the game thats present at the DIII level.

On another note, what does anyone think the odds are of the MIAA placing two teams in the playoffs, assuming Adrian can win out and finish 9-1? I know in the past this has been a reach to assume there would be two strong teams from the MIAA that could make it, but Adrian (if they win out) will only have one loss in the region, to Albion and Albion will also only have one loss in the region. As an Adrian guy Im curious if this situation could play out assuming Adrian takes care of business the next two weeks. Anyone else have anything to offer one way or the other on the idea?

If there are two 9-1 teams from the MIAA, then one gets the automatic bid. The other team will struggle to earn another bid given the SOS and many other teams competing for a spot. The regional rankings could tell directionally where the NCAA is leaning!

[ThunderHead]

Did anyone else read this article about Albion senior Julian Paksi?

http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS08/110300589/Until-final-snap-Albion-senior-puts-transplant-hold-football

Hope that he enjoys a long D3 playoff run this year as well.

Great story, had no idea that Albion had a guy with that much perseverance on the team, really puts everything in perspective and shows the true love of the game thats present at the DIII level.

On another note, what does anyone think the odds are of the MIAA placing two teams in the playoffs, assuming Adrian can win out and finish 9-1? I know in the past this has been a reach to assume there would be two strong teams from the MIAA that could make it, but Adrian (if they win out) will only have one loss in the region, to Albion and Albion will also only have one loss in the region. As an Adrian guy Im curious if this situation could play out assuming Adrian takes care of business the next two weeks. Anyone else have anything to offer one way or the other on the idea?

If there are two 9-1 teams from the MIAA, then one gets the automatic bid. The other team will struggle to earn another bid given the SOS and many other teams competing for a spot. The regional rankings could tell directionally where the NCAA is leaning!

I agree - the tough part of playing in the MIAA is I think that teams with similar records in other stronger conferences have a better shot at the last playoff spots. This said, like anything, I'm sure it's a bit political. So one can never tell. I hope they both get in, and if Trine can pull the upset at Albion, it should be interesting.

[Mr. Ypsi]

Bad news for those of us hoping for a Pool C for Adrian.  Regional rankings are out, and Adrian isn't in them, but at least 3-4 Pool C competitors are (in the North alone).  It would take a miraculous string of results for Adrian to become viable (or even 'reach the table').

[formerd3db]

Yes, even if Adrian wins out, it doesn't look like they'd get any consideration for an at-large bid.  If other teams who might potentially go 9-1 were to lose and thus obviously not be 9-1, would that make any difference?  In other words, would 8-2 teams from some other regions most likely get the nod over a 9-1 Adrian team?  The bottom line is that Adrian blew it in losing to Albion.  Hopefully, Albion will have enough strength to do something in the playoffs, and although I hope they do and they have been playing well of recent, still after seeing them play, I have my doubts. 

Adrian will no doubt be coming into our place with a passion to avenge last week's loss.  Although at home for us at Hope, it will be another tough game.  As we have said all season long...if the "good" Hope team shows up, a win is within grasp and very attainable.  However, if that "other team" makes an appeareance, all I can say is..."LOOK OUT"!!!   I am hoping that we'll have a nice weather day (perhaps one of the last of the season), although perhaps that is too much to ask for and, in part, because it is November after all.  So I am bringing both sets of my sideline apparel for this one. 

Hey Mr. Ypsi - somewhat surprising about Eastern Michigan's record so far this year, wouldn't you say?  The MAC as a whole is quite interesting - so much parity.  And those "shootouts" this week with Tues night's Northern Illinois @ Toledo and last night's Temple @ Ohio.  Both of the latter teams are certainly improved; in fact, some people I know have said Temple has looked like a legit Big Ten team at times this year, despite their record.  Nice for them in having started "back up the ladder" to respectability.  Can you say Northwestern anyone?  

Talk to you all later.
formerd3db

[Raider 68]

Yes, even if Adrian wins out, it doesn't look like they'd get any consideration for an at-large bid.  If other teams who might potentially go 9-1 were to lose and thus obviously not be 9-1, would that make any difference?  In other words, would 8-2 teams from some other regions most likely get the nod over a 9-1 Adrian team?  The bottom line is that Adrian blew it in losing to Albion.  Hopefully, Albion will have enough strength to do something in the playoffs, and although I hope they do and they have been playing well of recent, still after seeing them play, I have my doubts. 

Adrian will no doubt be coming into our place with a passion to avenge last week's loss.  Although at home for us at Hope, it will be another tough game.  As we have said all season long...if the "good" Hope team shows up, a win is within grasp and very attainable.  However, if that "other team" makes an appeareance, all I can say is..."LOOK OUT"!!!   I am hoping that we'll have a nice weather day (perhaps one of the last of the season), although perhaps that is too much to ask for and, in part, because it is November after all.  So I am bringing both sets of my sideline apparel for this one. 

Hey Mr. Ypsi - somewhat surprising about Eastern Michigan's record so far this year, wouldn't you say?  The MAC as a whole is quite interesting - so much parity.  And those "shootouts" this week with Tues night's Northern Illinois @ Toledo and last night's Temple @ Ohio.  Both of the latter teams are certainly improved; in fact, some people I know have said Temple has looked like a legit Big Ten team at times this year, despite their record.  Nice for them in having started "back up the ladder" to respectability.  Can you say Northwestern anyone?  

Talk to you all later.
formerd3db

formerd3db,

Does look like Adrian would make the playoffs regardless of being 9-1, IMHO!

Adrian vs. Hope could go this way:

1. Adrian take our their anger from last's week loss and wins big.

2. Knowing that Adrian will unlikely make the playoffs, they lose their focus against Hope and lose
    a close one in the 4th Qtr.

3. Hope jumps on Adrian early and wins big.

4. It is a real battle and Hope wins on the last drive or the reverse.

Of the above, #2 or #5 is more likely, IMHO.

[formerd3db]

Raider68:

Good potential scenario analysis.  I'm "sitting the fence" on this one because I am just not sure about our Hope team.  At times this year, I've thought we've "turned the corner" and are really ready to start beating up on opponents...well, at least push them so that we most likely would win the game.  Actually, we've had a chance to win every game this season with the exception of the first blow-out loss to IWU.  And on further reflection, in reality we "have turned a part of that corner" because we are a much better/improved team then we have been the past 3 years and, at least, have been competitive this year with chances at winning games.  We've had some very good stints of football performance this year, while at the same time, have had some terrible breakdowns/implosions, often coming at inopportune times i.e. the wrong time of the game, which killed the momentum and sealed the outcome for us.  All that said, I think if we play like we did against Trine two Saturdays ago, we will have a great chance at beating Adrian.

It is somewhat ironic - or perhaps a better description is that it is surprising - that the MIAA race is already decided earlier this year i.e. the AQ and other than a potential co-championship as opposed to the often conclusion coming down to the last 1 or 2 games of the season.  Perhaps somewhat kind of takes the "edge of your seat thrills" out of it for some fans, although obviously that excludes the Albion people.   Of course, as we've discussed, the Adrian crowd is still holding out "hope" that they can get an at-large selection if they win out and do it big, with the help of some losses by some other regional teams.  Of course, for me, I "hope" that Hope wins out and that would be huge accomplishment and compliment to our players and coaching staff.

Now, as far as your alma mater Mount Union, what is your prediction for the game with the "Flaming Pile", oops, I mean B-W?   From the discussions you guys have been having over on your OAC board, it appears that a HUGE crowd is expected for attendance.  That should be a great atmosphere.  Are you braving the weather and going to the game?

P.S. To Everyone:  It looks like the weather just migh be pretty good this weekend - sunny but cold(er)/crisp.  I'll obviously take that over rain without question and also over grey/cloudiness/overcast. Dress warm everyone, for those of you who are going to the games!   

[sflzman]

Yes, even if Adrian wins out, it doesn't look like they'd get any consideration for an at-large bid.  If other teams who might potentially go 9-1 were to lose and thus obviously not be 9-1, would that make any difference?  In other words, would 8-2 teams from some other regions most likely get the nod over a 9-1 Adrian team?  The bottom line is that Adrian blew it in losing to Albion.  Hopefully, Albion will have enough strength to do something in the playoffs, and although I hope they do and they have been playing well of recent, still after seeing them play, I have my doubts. 

Adrian will no doubt be coming into our place with a passion to avenge last week's loss.  Although at home for us at Hope, it will be another tough game.  As we have said all season long...if the "good" Hope team shows up, a win is within grasp and very attainable.  However, if that "other team" makes an appeareance, all I can say is..."LOOK OUT"!!!   I am hoping that we'll have a nice weather day (perhaps one of the last of the season), although perhaps that is too much to ask for and, in part, because it is November after all.  So I am bringing both sets of my sideline apparel for this one. 

Hey Mr. Ypsi - somewhat surprising about Eastern Michigan's record so far this year, wouldn't you say?  The MAC as a whole is quite interesting - so much parity.  And those "shootouts" this week with Tues night's Northern Illinois @ Toledo and last night's Temple @ Ohio.  Both of the latter teams are certainly improved; in fact, some people I know have said Temple has looked like a legit Big Ten team at times this year, despite their record.  Nice for them in having started "back up the ladder" to respectability.  Can you say Northwestern anyone?  

Talk to you all later.
formerd3db

formerd3db,

Does look like Adrian would make the playoffs regardless of being 9-1, IMHO!

Adrian vs. Hope could go this way:

1. Adrian take our their anger from last's week loss and wins big.

2. Knowing that Adrian will unlikely make the playoffs, they lose their focus against Hope and lose
    a close one in the 4th Qtr.

3. Hope jumps on Adrian early and wins big.

4. It is a real battle and Hope wins on the last drive or the reverse.

Of the above, #2 or #5 is more likely, IMHO.

Where is this #5 that you speak of? 

[formerd3db]

sflzman:

I think he is referring to #5 as being the last half of sentence in #4 - meaning that in a real close battle, Hope wins on the last drive OR the reverse i.e. Adrian wins on the last drive.  #2 is obvious i.e. Hope wins during some portion of the 4th quarter and not necessarily the last drive.  Of course, the reverse of that could happen also i.e. Adrian wins some time during the late portion of the game.

What is your prediction for Alma's performance tomorrow?

[formerd3db]

Okay, what happend to the rest of you Trine faithful? BOYA87, TUAngola, adidas28?  Uncle Rico and ThunderHead (and occasionally LIR) have checked in here, however, you others have been quiet of recent.

For that matter, we haven't heard much from our Albion people of recent - and their team has secured the AQ!  Kzoodad (and stinger) have chimed in here on occasion.  sflzman has carried the ball for Alma all season; we've had a few Adrian guys (where are you foreverfootball?) check in on occasion (including ADAWG, who has returned from "exile" )), but our Olivet people have gone AWOL (OC_SID gets an excused absence ).

sac, Hopewatcher and DBQ - your thoughts on tomorrow's home final at HMS?

[Raider 68]

formerd3db,

Good post! We'll see how your alma mater does on a Nice Saturday in Holland!

It will be another nice day at Mount Union with a large crowd. I expect a fired up B-W team, but so will the
Raiders. It will be a good game, but the believe outcome favors the Raiders. Great defense #1 in D3 and alot of offensive weapons at 45+ pts game.

sflzman,

Number 5 is the reverse of Number 4 as formerd3db mentioned! I expect an Alma victory! 

[formerd3db]

Thanks Raider68.  I expect to hear of a huge crowd at your Mount Union tomorrow.  Are you going to the game?

Also, here is a question for you and our colleagues.  This obviously does not pertain to DIII, nonetheless, it is a relevent question IMO.  What do you guys think about all these different helmets and uniforms that some of the various DI teams are using this year?  It seems this is becoming more frequent i.e. having 2 or 3 (or more) different helmets and uniforms.  Of course, this is all coming as a result of Oregon.  Yet, while in one sense it is neat to see these "throwback" uniforms and/or new style design helmets/uniforms in games as well as the different uniform combos, on the other hand, I can't quite understand the "why"?  All these universities are crying about the huge cost of their athletic programs, yet they are spending tons of $ for these uniforms, particularly the helmets.  At >$250.00 per helmet, that is a ton of $ and even if they are getting a discount from the athletic equipment/uniform companies for helmets/uniforms, still, that is a big amount of $ just to spend on uni's, especially in these current tough economic times.  Of course, we all know that football brings in the most  revenue for the schools with the exception of some of the $ they get from the March Madness TV network payoffs and the football bowl games; yet, still, spending that kind of $ for additional helmets/uniforms just doesn't quite make sense to me.  Perhaps Michigan did it better in that they kept their helmets and just used "throwback" jerseys, but...of course, Michigan's helmet is unique.  Anyway, what are your opinions?