FB: American Southwest Conference

[crufootball]

Extremely proud of LC and everything they have accomplished this year. Thanks to all the UMHB fans there as they welcomed us with open arms and we're extremely nice to us our entire time in Belton.

If UMHB plays like they did Saturday for the rest of the playoffs, there is not a team in this country (not even MU) that will be able to score enough points to keep up. Only thing that worries me is the QB play- with Bailey they were unstoppable, but with the back up in- not even close. I will be cheering on the Cru and really hope they can bring home the title back to the ASC.

Did Bailey get injured or are you saying that if something happens you would be concerned about the level of play from the backup?

Both. He got hit pretty hard and left for one drive. The back-up had a lot of trouble getting the play in on time- causing a delay of game penalty, fumbled a snap, and they just couldn't really seem to get going with him- Bailey returned the very next drive and they scored in 3 or 4 plays. I think Bailey was okay, probably got the wind knocked out of him or something- nothing serious. Now if Bailey was to get hurt... I would really be worried.

It appeared that Bailey got checked for concussions symptoms after that hit but was quickly cleared and it looked like he even could have even got back in quicker but we fumbled just a couple of plays after the hit.

[Kelly Boggs]

Sims (#17) for UMHB struggled a bit when he was in. He had trouble getting the play off and did fumble. However, I thought Gallagher (#14) looked pretty good. He threw the ball well and ran well when needed to. Both are juniors. Of course neither are the caliber of Baily, who has had a great senior season and is playing really well right now.

Those who have followed UMHB closer than I have this year will have a more complete and comprehensive evaluation of The Cru back-ups. Both have gotten their share of reps this season.

In 2004, UMHB's starter, Padron, went down in the first round against Trinity and Josh Welch, a freshman, led The Cru to the national championship game. Every game was on the road. Against Mount Union, in the snow, facing a 4th and 12 Welch threw a 24 yard TD pass to Walter Sharp with 48 seconds left to lift UMHB past the Purple Raiders 38-35. "The Catch" is forever etched in the memories of the UMHB faithful. A photo of Sharp's grab even made it onto a sports page of USA Today. 

Up with the Purple!

[umhb2001]

Sims (#17) for UMHB struggled a bit when he was in. He had trouble getting the play off and did fumble. However, I thought Gallagher (#14) looked pretty good. He threw the ball well and ran ok when needed. Both are juniors. Of course neither are the caliber of Baily, who has had a great senior season and is playing really well right now.

In 2004, UMHB's starter, Padron, went down in the first round against Trinity and Josh Welch, a freshman, led The Cru to the national championship game. Every game was on the road. Against Mount Union, in the snow, facing a 4th and 12 Welch threw a 24 yard TD pass to Walter Sharp with 48 seconds left to lift UMHB past the Purple Raiders 38-35. "The Catch" is forever etched in the memories of the UMHB faithful. Sharp's grab even made onto a sports page of USA Today. 

Up with the Purple!

Jake Sims was 6-11 118 and 1 TD against Howard Payne when he really got to play and 2-4 45 1 against ETBU. When given a chance to play, he has done well. It seems to take him some time to come in and really get going. Gallagher really runs well, so I see them going to a two man rotation if Bailey was to go down. It would definitely be difficult and not ideal, but it could be done with the hands on deck, or legs as it were.

[Kelly Boggs]

umhb2001,

The Cru will do what it has to in order to "git er done!" Thanks for your insight on the back-ups.

Speaking of QB's, I've been looking ahead to next year for LC. They have a couple of good looking prospects for next season (This year's starter Jamie Bunting and his back-up Tim Curry are both seniors). Alonzo Bellamy is a sophomore from Riviera Beach, Fl., and is listed at 6'3", 210. I've seen some video on him. He throws a good ball and runs well. Stevie Douglas is a freshman from Clinton, La., and is listed at 6'5", 225. I have not seen him play, but I understand he has a good arm. I think LC will be ready to roll when the season begins next year.

[umhb2001]

umhb2001,

The Cru will do what it has to in order to "git er done!" Thanks for your insight on the back-ups.

Speaking of QB's, I've been looking ahead to next year for LC. They have a couple of good looking prospects for next season (This year's starter Jamie Bunting and his back-up Tim Curry are both seniors). Alonzo Bellamy is a sophomore from Riviera Beach, Fl., and is listed at 6'3", 210. I've seen some video on him. He throws a good ball and runs well. Stevie Douglas is a freshman from Clinton, La., and is listed at 6'5", 225. I have not seen him play, but I understand he has a good arm. I think LC will be ready to roll when the season begins next year.

Great to hear about the up and coming. I hope they are ready to play in the "Big House!"

[Toby Taff]

Up with the Purple!

While I know you'd like to be routing for LC still, Its great to see you in your natural habitat.

[umhb2001]

The story on the front page of D3football.com under "what we're reading" about LC, their coach, their president, and the "unfair roots" that run through UMHB is questionable.

I am an Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers fan. Who has been more dominant than these two teams? The Yankees. I hate the Yankees, and I have never liked how they have "bought" their championships. But, I can't blame them. They've done what it takes for what, 26 championships, and that's what had to be done.

UMHB is trying to win a championship. They have connections from central Texas people who have been here their whole life (Drayton McLane). It's not like he just appeared out of nowhere. He's been in the central Texas area for ever, and when someone like that is involved in the COMMUNITY, chances are you are going to reap the benefit. Seems as though UMHB has. They shouldn't be hated for that just as I shouldn't hate how the Yankees have won their championships. I wish my teams could have won those championships as well. I only hope they aspire to such greatness and work to achieve it.

[Toby Taff]

The story on the front page of D3football.com under "what we're reading" about LC, their coach, their president, and the "unfair roots" that run through UMHB is questionable.

I am an Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers fan. Who has been more dominant than these two teams? The Yankees. I hate the Yankees, and I have never liked how they have "bought" their championships. But, I can't blame them. They've done what it takes for what, 26 championships, and that's what had to be done.

UMHB is trying to win a championship. They have connections from central Texas people who have been here their whole life (Drayton McLane). It's not like he just appeared out of nowhere. He's been in the central Texas area for ever, and when someone like that is involved in the COMMUNITY, chances are you are going to reap the benefit. Seems as though UMHB has. They shouldn't be hated for that just as I shouldn't hate how the Yankees have won their championships. I wish my teams could have won those championships as well. I only hope they aspire to such greatness and work to achieve it.

I just read the article and I didn't think it was unfair. I think the point the article (and Dunn) was trying to make is that UMHB is committed to its athletics program and the facilities shoe that commitment. The result of that commitment is an exemplary program, and if LC wants the same there has to be administrative buy in. I find it funny that the article talks about the porta-potties and bad facilities because I had a discussion with a HSU coach on Sunday about how bad the facilities are for visiting teams. Sounds like there's not much of a step up for the home team.

As for the relationship with Drayton McLane, Jr. As long as I can remember the relationship between McLane and UMHB has existed. I lived in the McLane residence hall the first year it opened. McLane has hired untold numbers of UMHB alumni over the years to work at the various companies he has started. McLane is a life long Baptist and Baylor alumnus. Member of a Baptist Church that is part of the Baptist Association housed on UMHBs campus. The Cru is fortunate to have close ties to him.

That said, It still took the support of the administration and alumni and their willingness to invest in the campus to see the growth and success UMHB has seen. I also think it is important to note that the article talked about the facility investment as being a small part of the overall campus investment.

[umhb2001]

The story on the front page of D3football.com under "what we're reading" about LC, their coach, their president, and the "unfair roots" that run through UMHB is questionable.

I am an Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers fan. Who has been more dominant than these two teams? The Yankees. I hate the Yankees, and I have never liked how they have "bought" their championships. But, I can't blame them. They've done what it takes for what, 26 championships, and that's what had to be done.

UMHB is trying to win a championship. They have connections from central Texas people who have been here their whole life (Drayton McLane). It's not like he just appeared out of nowhere. He's been in the central Texas area for ever, and when someone like that is involved in the COMMUNITY, chances are you are going to reap the benefit. Seems as though UMHB has. They shouldn't be hated for that just as I shouldn't hate how the Yankees have won their championships. I wish my teams could have won those championships as well. I only hope they aspire to such greatness and work to achieve it.

I just read the article and I didn't think it was unfair. I think the point the article (and Dunn) was trying to make is that UMHB is committed to its athletics program and the facilities shoe that commitment. The result of that commitment is an exemplary program, and if LC wants the same there has to be administrative buy in. I find it funny that the article talks about the porta-potties and bad facilities because I had a discussion with a HSU coach on Sunday about how bad the facilities are for visiting teams. Sounds like there's not much of a step up for the home team.

As for the relationship with Drayton McLane, Jr. As long as I can remember the relationship. I lived in the McLane residence hall the first year it opened. McLane has hired untold numbers of UMHB alumni over the years to work at the various companies he has started. McLane is a life long Baptist and Baylor between McLane and UMHB has existedalumnus. Member of a Baptist Church that is part of the Baptist Association housed on UMHBs campus. The Cru is fortunate to have close ties to him.

That said, It still took the support of the administration and alumni and their willingness to invest in the campus to see the growth and success UMHB has seen. I also think it is important to note that the article talked about the facility investment as being a small part of the overall campus investment.

Thats what I'm saying. It just sounds like people are mad at UMHB for it. Just work hard for it. I hope LC can and the rest of the ASC can be successful.

[Kelly Boggs]

LC is my current "home team," Toby, but I am a Crusader forever. My four years at UMHB were so formative and so significant, I will remain loyal until death - and probably beyond (that is by leaving some $$$ behind, if I have any left after Obama gets through with me). : ) I think this Cru team is pretty special. In my opinion it is the most balanced offense and most effective passing team UMHB has ever put on the field. The defense is solid as always. I won't say it is the best because The Cru has had some great defensive units in the past, but it is, as usual, very good.

Don't make too much of the Town Talk (TT) article. The writer looks for ways to try to create tension and embarrass LC any way he can. He seems obsessed with the port-a-potty angle. He works it in every time he can. There is some back story I can't go into, but  the TT seems to look for ways to sling mud at LC. The school has a lot of needs right now, but there just isn't any money. LC is about to launch a capital campaign that hopefully help to rectify the situation.

FWIW the port-a-potties at LC are the nicest I have ever seen or used. They are actually a large trailer, are air conditioned and even have pictures on the wall. They are nicer than most of the public restrooms at the high school stadiums in Central Louisiana. In fact, there is a high school in Alexandria that is moving to 5A next year that has port-a-potties for its visitors - the rinky-dink single serve kind that are usually nasty. My wife and daughters will not use them. The reporter in question has never once lamented this fact. Rather than take issue with a public high school's poor restroom facilities, he takes time criticizing a private college.

I commented on the TT's Facebook page about the story. I removed it after a few hours because I am not sure people understood. I was not putting Louisiana, or specifically Central Louisina down, I was just pointing out facts. The economies of the two areas - are vastly different. I don't pretend to know why but Central Texas when compared to CenLa is boomimg. Also, UMHB has some donors committed to the school and athletics with some very deep pockets. I have not seen the same with respect to LC. I believe if it were announced today that $10 million had been given to complete construction of Wildcat Stadium, some - perhaps many - alumni would complain that the money should go to other areas. I also believe the TT would be the lead complainer.

Additionally, the commitment to high school athletics is vastly different - especially in football. The people from Louisiana that have traveled to Belton to watch LC play UMHB comment that the BHS stadium is the best they have ever seen - and it is, but anyone from Texas will regard Belton's facilities as nice but about average. In terms of athletes, Louisiana is second to none in quality. However, in terms of providing facilities for those athlets, the commitment is not there. Part of it is economics, I am sure, but part of it is just a mindset that Texas has that seems to be missing in Louisiana. An example: Last season I went to a high school football playoff game that was taking place locally. It was the quarter-finals of the 4A playoffs. The home side had room to spare in the stands - plenty of room to spare. If you have ever been to a high school playoff game in Texas - whatever the round - it is standing room only before the game begins. The attendance at the aforementioned game would not have been a decent crowd at a regular season 2A game in Texas, much less a playoff game.

One more angle is that CenLa, and even the TT, are woefully ignorant when it comes to understanding DIII. LC is the only DIII school in the state. I won't go into detail, but I come across as some sort of fanatical evangelist for DIII to many people. I am always referring them to this site - I have repeatedly suggested it to the reporters at the TT - to enhance their udnerstanding. 

I say all of the above to say that Texas has a different mindset from many other states - not all, but most, when it comes to football. I think all of the above are issues with respect to LC's facilities. The TT reporter just saw an opportunity to stick it to LC.

I do believe LC will complete construction on the stadium, hopefully sooner rather than later. It will be a nice stadium, and be on par with an average high school stadium in Texas. That said, port-a-potties and all, there is no other place I would rather watch a football game live than in Wildcat Stadium. One thing I really like is there is no track so you are much closer to the action. That may change when "The Cathedral" opens next season, but until then, I like my vantage point on the 50 yard line at Wildcat Stadium.

Wildcat Stadium, even though lacking many amenities, is still a better venue than the high school stadium where LC previously played its games.

Here is hoping The Cru makes its way to Salem. If so, I will be present.

"Up with the Purple!"

[umhb2001]

LC is my current "home team," Toby, but I am a Crusader forever. My four years at UMHB were so formative and so significant, I will remain loyal until death - and probably beyond (that is by leaving some $$$ behind, if I have any left after Obama gets through with me). : ) I think this Cru team is pretty special. In my opinion it is the most balanced offense and most effective passing team UMHB has ever put on the field. The defense is solid as always. I won't say it is the best because The Cru has had some great defensive units in the past, but it as usual very good.

Don't make too much of the Town Talk (TT) article. The writer looks for ways to try and embarrass LC any way he can. He seems obsessed with the porta-potty angle. He works it in every time he can. There is some back story I can't go into, but  the TT looks for ways to sling mud at LC. The school has a lot of needs right now, but there just isn't any money. LC is about to launch a capital campaign that hopefully help to rectify the situation.

FWIW the porta-potties at LC are the nicest I have ever seen. They are actually a large trailer, are air conditioned and even have pictures on the wall. They are nicer than most of the public restrooms at the high school stadiums in Louisiana. In fact, there is a high school in Alexandria that is moving to 5A next year that has porta-potties for its visitors - the rinky-dink single serve kind. The reporter in question has never once pointed this out.

I commented on the TT's Facebook page about the story. I removed it after a few hours because I am not sure people understood. I was not putting Louisiana, or specifically Central Louisina down, I was just pointing out facts. The economies of the two areas - and states - are vastly different. I don't pretend to know why but Central Texas is booming economically and CenLa is not. Also, UMHB has some donors committed to the school and athletics with some very deep pockets. I have not seen the same with respect to LC. I believe if it were announced today that $10 million had been given to complete construction of Wildcat Stadium, some - perhaps many - alumni would complain that the money should go to other areas. I also believe the TT would be the lead complainer.

Additionally, the commitment to high school athletics is vastly different - especially in football. The people from Louisina that have traveled to Belton to watch LC play UMHB comment that the BHS stadium is the best they have ever seen - and it is, but anyone from Texas will regard Belton's facilities as nice but about average. In terms of athletes, Louisiana is second to none in quality. However, in terms of providing facilities for those athlets, the commitment is not there. Part of it is economics, I am sure, but part of it is just a mindset that Texas has that seems to be missing in Louisiana. An example: Last season I went to a high school football playoff game that was taking place locally. It was the quarter-finals of the 4A playoffs. The home side had room to spare in the stands - plenty of room to spare. If you have ever been to a high school playoff game in Texas - whatever the round - it is standing room only before the game begins.

I say all of the above to say that Texas has a different mindset from many other states - not all, but most, when it comes to football. I think all of the above are issues with respect to LC's facilities. The TT reporter just saw an opportunity to stick it to LC.

I do believe LC will complete construction on the stadium, hopefully sooner rather than later. It will be a nice stadium, and be on par with an average high school stadium in Texas. That said, porta-potties and all, there is no other place I would rather watch a football game live than in Wildcat Stadium. That may change when "The Cathedral" opens next season, but until then, I like my vantage point at Wildcat Stadium.

Here is hoping The Cru makes its way to Salem. If so, I will be present.

"Up with the Purple!"

That's a great inside look. Thanks for the report. I was not mad with LC for the article, just the perception the article created.  My hope, though, is that others know that UMHB is also upgrading their academic buildings as well and don't just suppose this or that about us based on the article. Our building campaign is for all students, not just football.

[@d3jason]

The story on the front page of D3football.com under "what we're reading" about LC, their coach, their president, and the "unfair roots" that run through UMHB is questionable.

I am an Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers fan. Who has been more dominant than these two teams? The Yankees. I hate the Yankees, and I have never liked how they have "bought" their championships. But, I can't blame them. They've done what it takes for what, 26 championships, and that's what had to be done.

UMHB is trying to win a championship. They have connections from central Texas people who have been here their whole life (Drayton McLane). It's not like he just appeared out of nowhere. He's been in the central Texas area for ever, and when someone like that is involved in the COMMUNITY, chances are you are going to reap the benefit. Seems as though UMHB has. They shouldn't be hated for that just as I shouldn't hate how the Yankees have won their championships. I wish my teams could have won those championships as well. I only hope they aspire to such greatness and work to achieve it.

I just read the article and I didn't think it was unfair. I think the point the article (and Dunn) was trying to make is that UMHB is committed to its athletics program and the facilities shoe that commitment. The result of that commitment is an exemplary program, and if LC wants the same there has to be administrative buy in. I find it funny that the article talks about the porta-potties and bad facilities because I had a discussion with a HSU coach on Sunday about how bad the facilities are for visiting teams. Sounds like there's not much of a step up for the home team.

As for the relationship with Drayton McLane, Jr. As long as I can remember the relationship. I lived in the McLane residence hall the first year it opened. McLane has hired untold numbers of UMHB alumni over the years to work at the various companies he has started. McLane is a life long Baptist and Baylor between McLane and UMHB has existedalumnus. Member of a Baptist Church that is part of the Baptist Association housed on UMHBs campus. The Cru is fortunate to have close ties to him.

That said, It still took the support of the administration and alumni and their willingness to invest in the campus to see the growth and success UMHB has seen. I also think it is important to note that the article talked about the facility investment as being a small part of the overall campus investment.

Thats what I'm saying. It just sounds like people are mad at UMHB for it. Just work hard for it. I hope LC can and the rest of the ASC can be successful.

Mad no, envy definitely.

You just hope that Dunn's relationship with his President is solid. I don't think he intends to call out his boss, but the headline sure makes it look that way.

[Kelly Boggs]

I think the report had its intended effect, to create the perception of envy and disunity, especially for the uninitiated. However, I do not think either is the case. Again, nothing is meaningful without a context. And for about four years now, the TT looks for every opportunity to jab LC and Aguillard in the ribs, so to speak. There have been many articles along this same line. And the references to port-a-potties has become laughable. The tension between the TT and LC can be traced to, what I believe, was an inciting incident. All in all, in my opinion, it has all been a bit childish. 

[Kelly Boggs]

Toby you and umhb2001 are spot on. UMHB's spending has been across the board and the stadium has been a long time coming. The student population has grown significantly since I graduated in 1985 and the campus has developed along with the growth. I am proud at what has taken place in Belton. UMHB was a really good school when I attended, but I do think it is better now. Dr. Bawcom did a great job of leading UMHB and I know Dr. O'Rear will continue to guide her with a steady hand into the future.

I know some wonder whether or not UMHB really needs its own stadium. BHS is more than adequate. However, I believe an on campus stadium will enhance the game day experience for students, alumni and fans. I am sure it will also be used for soccer and other events. I will not be at all surprised if it is utilized for Spring graduation. And since most - if not all - the money has been designated for the project, all I can say is "Up with the Purple!"

[Toby Taff]

Kelly, thanks for the inside scoop. I guess the reporter has a grudge and a public means by which to take shots, and apparently is fixated on porta-potties. I was commenting about that because of the conversation I had on Sunday and it struck me that the porta-potties were mentioned in both.