FB: American Rivers Conference

[Voice of the Dutch]

Nice article about Trevor Castle, "The Voice Of The Dutch" on the Central Athletics web site.  Didn't he used to post on here?  Anyway, I'm looking forward to hearing plenty of, "Castle’s rumbling “TOUCH-dowwwnnn Central!” tomorrow.

Thanks for the kind words and especially to Larry Happel for putting that article together.

I wish I could take time to post more - life's just a little hectic with two little ones growing up way to fast.

Thank goodness for those 4 first-half TOUCH-dowwwnn Central calls this afternoon!!!  We needed 'em to hang on for dear life, and great job to the D for the 6 turnovers and that big last second stand.  Congrats to the seniors and the rest of the squad for making it 52 straight years without a losing season!  Let's make it a winning season next weekend!!

[Klompen]

Congratulations to the Dutch!  Just shows how far playing with heart can take you!  I was thrilled with the way the Dutch came to play today, clicking on all cylinders early.  Holding Wartburg for the most part, and scoring TDs on the 1st 3 possessions.  That is coming out and playing to win.  Nice mixture of plays, far more deep passes than WB expected, even a couple of VERY deceptive offensive plays.  It made me feel proud to be a Dutch fan again. 

Then we came back in the second half and stopped doing what got us the lead on offense.  We started trying to work the clock, got conservative in the play calling, and went into protect the lead mode.  A.K.A. Playing not to lose.  It almost pulled defeat out of the jaws of victory.  Credit to WB for not giving up, you made it far more interesting that my red shades felt was necessary.     I know there is some conventional wisdom in trying to run down the clock, etc, but I prefer to stay with what got us the lead.  Keep playing to win and the yardage was in the passing game.

All that aside, huge congratulations to the Dutch team effort and to the senior class for getting the win today.  The pick-ems were decidedly against the Dutch, with only Central fans picking us to win, more because we wanted it for you than maybe because we believed we could do it.  Excellent early strategy and execution, would have liked to have seen it carried out longer, but there is a reason they don't let me do the play calling.    Anyway, it was still a great win for the Dutch against a team that had our number lately.  Congratulations.  Now come out and play like you did the 1st quarter for 4 quarters next week and you can finish in second place.  You did it last year, it could happen.   

[DutchFan2004]

Congratulations seniors on keeping the streak going and all of the underclassmen as well to have a chance to keep it going.  Central looked great for the first three and a half quarters.  Go to find a way to close out a good team like Wartburg and the Dutch were lucky to come out with the win.  I am hopeful for the future though as watching this team with all of the young players that are on the field they can grow.  Now on to Coe.  This game is huge for Dutch they have a chance not only to have a winning season but to redeem themselves and know that they do belong with the top teams in the conference with a W.  With a W over Coe they know that they could have been in the playoffs. 


I was impressed with the Knights as well.  They could have rolled over and played dead but did not.  They had a chance to win it and came up short.  If the freshman QB can stay healthy and improve over the next three years I will predict that he has all of the Wartburg passing records.  He did well but made mistakes that wound up costing the Knights.  That said if he corrects them look out IIAC for the Knights in the future. 

[Klompen]

Way to go Dutch for securing the non-losing streak today!!!  I wasn't sure we could do it, and we almost didn't, but the streak is safe for another team to have as a monkey on their back.      I think we need to start downplaying the streak as it just adds too much pressure.

Usually we win 5 games quick enough it's not an issue ;-)

Yes, but sadly times are changing.  Any streak can be a monkey on the back of the team that has it because eventually all streaks do end.  I remember when Central had 3 straight undefeated seasons and the longest regular season win streak in the nation.  The next year the team played in a way that reminded me of this year.  UD brought the streak to and end and the Dutch blew past the competition the rest of the regular season.  Once that fear of losing the streak was over, they played fantastic.  The monkey was off their backs.  Streaks make for pressure, they are good to advertise for recruiting but can be a heavy burden.  Not that I'm not glad we get to continue carrying it. 

[DutchFan2004]

Nice meeting AZ Dutchman after the game.  It is a shame these 4 years have gone by so fast and your son is a senior but you will always have the memories. 

[DutchFan2004]

Way to go Dutch for securing the non-losing streak today!!!  I wasn't sure we could do it, and we almost didn't, but the streak is safe for another team to have as a monkey on their back.      I think we need to start downplaying the streak as it just adds too much pressure.

Usually we win 5 games quick enough it's not an issue ;-)

Yes, but sadly times are changing.  Any streak can be a monkey on the back of the team that has it because eventually all streaks do end.  I remember when Central had 3 straight undefeated seasons and the longest regular season win streak in the nation.  The next year the team played in a way that reminded me of this year.  UD brought the streak to and end and the Dutch blew past the competition the rest of the regular season.  Once that fear of losing the streak was over, they played fantastic.  The monkey was off their backs.  Streaks make for pressure, they are good to advertise for recruiting but can be a heavy burden.  Not that I'm not glad we get to continue carrying it.

Streaks do make for pressure you are correct Klompen but they also build tradition and with tradition comes responsibility and that builds character.  The Dutch came into this game with pressure but if you look at their effort in the first part of the game they handeled the pressure well and came out on top.  You could make the case that if there was no streak to defend a team may have written the last two game off but with this to play for the Dutch rose up for a huge win. 

[Klompen]

Way to go Dutch for securing the non-losing streak today!!!  I wasn't sure we could do it, and we almost didn't, but the streak is safe for another team to have as a monkey on their back.      I think we need to start downplaying the streak as it just adds too much pressure.

Usually we win 5 games quick enough it's not an issue ;-)

Yes, but sadly times are changing.  Any streak can be a monkey on the back of the team that has it because eventually all streaks do end.  I remember when Central had 3 straight undefeated seasons and the longest regular season win streak in the nation.  The next year the team played in a way that reminded me of this year.  UD brought the streak to and end and the Dutch blew past the competition the rest of the regular season.  Once that fear of losing the streak was over, they played fantastic.  The monkey was off their backs.  Streaks make for pressure, they are good to advertise for recruiting but can be a heavy burden.  Not that I'm not glad we get to continue carrying it.

Streaks do make for pressure you are correct Klompen but they also build tradition and with tradition comes responsibility and that builds character.  The Dutch came into this game with pressure but if you look at their effort in the first part of the game they handeled the pressure well and came out on top.  You could make the case that if there was no streak to defend a team may have written the last two game off but with this to play for the Dutch rose up for a huge win.

Good points, DF04.  It all comes down to the character and today, the Dutch rose to the challenge and showed great character in keeping the streak alive.  I'm with you let's go for the winning season next week.

[Willie University]

Agreed, red are usually well justified, but this year's Central team has played very average THUS FAR.  I am counting on the Dutch seniors showing their leadership tomorrow and hopefully again next week against Coe. The Dutch have not yet shown us their best, outside of maybe the UD game and that is hard to judge with UD being down this year from their triumphant climb of last year.  If Central goes in with the same attitude as they did against UD, I think they can win tomorrow. 

I hate to say it, but Wartburg could have more athletic ability this year, I am hoping to see the Dutch have more heart and win it for the seniors and the parents that have come to see their kids' last home game.  I'm not going to say I think we can beat Coe this year, but I would not have said that last year either.  It all comes down to how bad they want it, willingness to go all out for 60 minutes or more, if necessary, and if they can stop shooting themselves in the foot with penalties and turnovers.  Improved special teams play would help too.

I would have to disagree with this unless you are just looking at records. Lets see, a fluke gives central the win when UD dominated them; a double OT loss to coe which a first down would have secured the win in regulation; leading wartburg all game and again, a first down would have secured the win; Not making excuses but Ud had to also play central at central on homecoming and wartburg at wartburg on homecoming with the added emotion and still only lost close games. And was the only team to match up evenly with coe. So, yes, if records are indications then UD was down but I think more our own mistakes are what cost us from being unbeaten in IIAC play. Next season, the schedule won't play out as tough (except 3 WIAC non-conf games of course). No making excuses as I understand losses are losses but the spartans I don't think were down, just didn't win the close ones that were clearly theirs to win (all 3 of them)

[Klompen]

Nice to see AZD again and to meet a couple of your kids.  You must be so proud, one son graduating from Columbia, one at MIT, it is clear your kids meet the Central President's goal of great academic students.  And you got to see your son help keep the Central tradition alive.  Hope you have had a great visit and that those Dutch letters get home okay.

[notlongago]

Way to go Dutch for securing the non-losing streak today!!!  I wasn't sure we could do it, and we almost didn't, but the streak is safe for another team to have as a monkey on their back.      I think we need to start downplaying the streak as it just adds too much pressure.

Usually we win 5 games quick enough it's not an issue ;-)

Yes, but sadly times are changing.  Any streak can be a monkey on the back of the team that has it because eventually all streaks do end.  I remember when Central had 3 straight undefeated seasons and the longest regular season win streak in the nation.  The next year the team played in a way that reminded me of this year.  UD brought the streak to and end and the Dutch blew past the competition the rest of the regular season.  Once that fear of losing the streak was over, they played fantastic.  The monkey was off their backs.  Streaks make for pressure, they are good to advertise for recruiting but can be a heavy burden.  Not that I'm not glad we get to continue carrying it.

Streaks do make for pressure you are correct Klompen but they also build tradition and with tradition comes responsibility and that builds character.  The Dutch came into this game with pressure but if you look at their effort in the first part of the game they handeled the pressure well and came out on top.  You could make the case that if there was no streak to defend a team may have written the last two game off but with this to play for the Dutch rose up for a huge win.

I think there is so much truth in this post.

I will admit I was one of the most vocal about the streak not wanting it end, and I felt a huge sense of relief when that clock finally hit zero.
One thing that worries me was the way the Dutch just stagnated... Hate to say it but it seemed coach McMartin "ferentz-ed" it up a little too much and it nearly, possibly should've, cost the game.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned is a congrats to Coe for clinching the playoff spot.....and no need to show up next week now that's it's all sealed up. Save the starters for the Playoffs 

[notlongago]

Agreed, red are usually well justified, but this year's Central team has played very average THUS FAR.  I am counting on the Dutch seniors showing their leadership tomorrow and hopefully again next week against Coe. The Dutch have not yet shown us their best, outside of maybe the UD game and that is hard to judge with UD being down this year from their triumphant climb of last year.  If Central goes in with the same attitude as they did against UD, I think they can win tomorrow. 

I hate to say it, but Wartburg could have more athletic ability this year, I am hoping to see the Dutch have more heart and win it for the seniors and the parents that have come to see their kids' last home game.  I'm not going to say I think we can beat Coe this year, but I would not have said that last year either.  It all comes down to how bad they want it, willingness to go all out for 60 minutes or more, if necessary, and if they can stop shooting themselves in the foot with penalties and turnovers.  Improved special teams play would help too.

I would have to disagree with this unless you are just looking at records. Lets see, a fluke gives central the win when UD dominated them; a double OT loss to coe which a first down would have secured the win in regulation; leading wartburg all game and again, a first down would have secured the win; Not making excuses but Ud had to also play central at central on homecoming and wartburg at wartburg on homecoming with the added emotion and still only lost close games. And was the only team to match up evenly with coe. So, yes, if records are indications then UD was down but I think more our own mistakes are what cost us from being unbeaten in IIAC play. Next season, the schedule won't play out as tough (except 3 WIAC non-conf games of course). No making excuses as I understand losses are losses but the spartans I don't think were down, just didn't win the close ones that were clearly theirs to win (all 3 of them)

Dude, Dbq is a very average team this year just like every other team in the conference this year except Coe. Every team had breaks that didn't go their way that kept them from being in a better position. Stop making excuses everyone is where they should be at this point of the year.

I guarantee you BV, Central, Wartburg, Simpson, and Dbq could all point to a handful of plays in every game that could've changed the outcome and put any one of them in a position to win the conference, or at least add another win or two to the left side of column.

And I think every team (other than the two L teams) are in for more of the same for the next few years since everyone is so young...the general level of play will increase but within conference I fully expect 3-5 teams to legitimately compete for the title. If I had to pick a team or two that would drop down the mid or lower tier level it would be Dbq for sure and possibly Simpson due to the losses of QBs (much like central, Coe, and wartburg went through this season)...in summation, be happy for each and every Dbq win because they may, or may not, be fewer and further between the next few years.

#endrant

[Willie University]

BTW, not that the score and stats didn't show this but the Spartans DOMINATED the duhawks in every facet of the game today. I am sure the coaches will find flaws but this was the first game that every facet of the team was clicking on all cylindars. The RB from loras is talented but as I said earlier in the season, you are not going to be that good being so one dimentional. But, my sense is that they know the limitations of their QB and play to their strengths (RB). Can't wait to see my young cousin that opted to play for the duhawks at some family function 

My favorite play of the game was when a pass over the middle intended for Miles Hookstead was incomplete and he was hit by both the DB and safety and knocked them both on their a$$. He outweighed them both together but it was one of the funniest plays I have seen all year. Not trying to be "mean" but it was hilarious. The safety thought he was going to put a lick on Hookstead and ended up 2 yards in the opposite direction 

BV has been playing well and I sense a battle next weekend

Willie U

[warthog]

Not much to say about a dismal Wartburg loss.

The only thing I'm hoping for now is a five way tie for second in the IIAC.

I hope the recruiters are out in force starting a week from this coming Monday.  Shopping list includes some taller d-backs and some players who can show a spark of enthusiasm. 

[Klompen]

Agreed, red are usually well justified, but this year's Central team has played very average THUS FAR.  I am counting on the Dutch seniors showing their leadership tomorrow and hopefully again next week against Coe. The Dutch have not yet shown us their best, outside of maybe the UD game and that is hard to judge with UD being down this year from their triumphant climb of last year.  If Central goes in with the same attitude as they did against UD, I think they can win tomorrow. 

I hate to say it, but Wartburg could have more athletic ability this year, I am hoping to see the Dutch have more heart and win it for the seniors and the parents that have come to see their kids' last home game.  I'm not going to say I think we can beat Coe this year, but I would not have said that last year either.  It all comes down to how bad they want it, willingness to go all out for 60 minutes or more, if necessary, and if they can stop shooting themselves in the foot with penalties and turnovers.  Improved special teams play would help too.

I would have to disagree with this unless you are just looking at records. Lets see, a fluke gives central the win when UD dominated them; a double OT loss to coe which a first down would have secured the win in regulation; leading wartburg all game and again, a first down would have secured the win; Not making excuses but Ud had to also play central at central on homecoming and wartburg at wartburg on homecoming with the added emotion and still only lost close games. And was the only team to match up evenly with coe. So, yes, if records are indications then UD was down but I think more our own mistakes are what cost us from being unbeaten in IIAC play. Next season, the schedule won't play out as tough (except 3 WIAC non-conf games of course). No making excuses as I understand losses are losses but the spartans I don't think were down, just didn't win the close ones that were clearly theirs to win (all 3 of them)

I will give you that you are the only team thus far to nearly beat Coe, but can't agree with the rest, much as I like you, Willie.  Ifs and buts don't change the outcome.  Central could be undefeated in conference play if not for mistakes as well.  Heck only OshKosh really beat us if not for our mistakes.  Central lead WB all game too and we had to hang on for dear life to pull out the win.  If you take away mistakes, WB doesn't get caught holding on what would have been a probable game winning TD.  But that isn't how the game goes and dominating a team doesn't mean a thing unless you dominate the final score which is the only stat that counts.  Central made it to the West region championship with a team that was dominated in nearly all the other stats in most of the regular season games when DF2004's son was a senior.  UD is a far better team now than they were for decades, but this UD team is not last year's UD team.

[notlongago]

Agreed, red are usually well justified, but this year's Central team has played very average THUS FAR.  I am counting on the Dutch seniors showing their leadership tomorrow and hopefully again next week against Coe. The Dutch have not yet shown us their best, outside of maybe the UD game and that is hard to judge with UD being down this year from their triumphant climb of last year.  If Central goes in with the same attitude as they did against UD, I think they can win tomorrow. 

I hate to say it, but Wartburg could have more athletic ability this year, I am hoping to see the Dutch have more heart and win it for the seniors and the parents that have come to see their kids' last home game.  I'm not going to say I think we can beat Coe this year, but I would not have said that last year either.  It all comes down to how bad they want it, willingness to go all out for 60 minutes or more, if necessary, and if they can stop shooting themselves in the foot with penalties and turnovers.  Improved special teams play would help too.

I would have to disagree with this unless you are just looking at records. Lets see, a fluke gives central the win when UD dominated them; a double OT loss to coe which a first down would have secured the win in regulation; leading wartburg all game and again, a first down would have secured the win; Not making excuses but Ud had to also play central at central on homecoming and wartburg at wartburg on homecoming with the added emotion and still only lost close games. And was the only team to match up evenly with coe. So, yes, if records are indications then UD was down but I think more our own mistakes are what cost us from being unbeaten in IIAC play. Next season, the schedule won't play out as tough (except 3 WIAC non-conf games of course). No making excuses as I understand losses are losses but the spartans I don't think were down, just didn't win the close ones that were clearly theirs to win (all 3 of them)

I will give you that you are the only team thus far to nearly beat Coe, but can't agree with the rest, much as I like you, Willie.  Ifs and buts don't change the outcome.  Central could be undefeated in conference play if not for mistakes as well.  Heck only OshKosh really beat us if not for our mistakes.  Central lead WB all game too and we had to hang on for dear life to pull out the win.  If you take away mistakes, WB doesn't get caught holding on what would have been a probable game winning TD.  But that isn't how the game goes and dominating a team doesn't mean a thing unless you dominate the final score which is the only stat that counts.  Central made it to the West region championship with a team that was dominated in nearly all the other stats in most of the regular season games when DF2004's son was a senior.  UD is a far better team now than they were for decades, but this UD team is not last year's UD team.

Well said. I thought it was common knowledge in a well balanced conference that 3-5 teams can make a case every game for why the outcome could've been different, but I guess not.