FB: Empire 8

[maxpower]

Max is unsure about some things.... Ithaca's at #8 nationally, playing unranked (nor receiving votes) Union on the road... common sense says we should handle it fine, but the Union program is a solid one, and Grastorf is far from a seasoned veteran, esp. if Bergerstock can't come back. What do the more informed Ithaca (or Union) faithful think is in the cards for this Saterday?

[Bombers798891]

Max is unsure about some things.... Ithaca's at #8 nationally, playing unranked (nor receiving votes) Union on the road... common sense says we should handle it fine, but the Union program is a solid one, and Grastorf is far from a seasoned veteran, esp. if Bergerstock can't come back. What do the more informed Ithaca (or Union) faithful think is in the cards for this Saterday?

The last time the Bombers were ranked #8 in the country, was after Week 6 in 2005. That week, IC played a 1-4 Lycoming team on the road and lost in overtime 33-30. Things are always a little weird on the road when it comes to Ithaca. They've been handed upsets in the past. And Union's going to be up for the game because you really help yourself with an at-large bid if you can get a win over a team like IC.

I know I've brought this up, but the Bergerstock injury could be a wild card. I know St. Lawrence has that beast of a defensive tackle, but 19 carries for 75 yards, while solid, isn't exactly the best line, although I wasn't there. Let's not forget, Ruggerio is just as green as Grastorf.

This is a real statement game for IC. Coming into the year, the biggest question I had was how this team would handle the six road games. This is arguably the toughest one (just IMO) and a solid win here really sets a tone for the year. I am suprised though, that Union is only 4-5 at home over the last two seasons.

I like Ithaca, 31-17 in this one.

[Bombers798891]

I was thinking about Bergerstock, and thinking about how he strikes me as similar to Jamie Donovan.

When Donovan won the starting job for IC midway through 2004, he was nearly unstoppable, gaining 1,078 yards on 176 carries and scoring 12 TD's. But he always was sort of banged up after that--although never badly injured, gaining 708 yards in 2005, 793 in 2006, and 1,085 in 2007 with pretty solid drops in YPC.

He wound up being IC's all-time leading rusher and scorer, but I always wished we could have seen him for four years totally healthy. He would have been something else. (Not that he wasn't, but you get the idea)

Bergerstock similarly kind of burst onto the scene and had one of the greatest seasons ever for a Bomber RB...and now, he's battling injuries, and you wonder if we'll get to see his full potential.

Don't get me wrong, both were/are sensational backs and Donovan was a great guy (I don't know Bergerstock, but am sure he's nice). I just wish we could keep these guys healthy because it's sad to see guys banged up. I hope Bergerstock comes back and picks up where he left off.

[BobNapoleone]

The Union-Ithaca playoff game was a sad one... Felicetti marched the boys right down the field on the first possesion, scoring on my favorite play from the old playbook..... where he'd roll right, then throw back across the field to the tight end.

Unfortunately, that was the most vulnerable defense IC has had in my ten years around here... they were carved to pieces.  Just as the Bombers got back into it, Union screwed up a squib kick, and it bounced off a Bomber helmet and deflected right back to the kicker.  At that point, it was game over.

Union fans were interesting to say the least.  They seemed genuinely offended that so many Ithaca people showed up, and were actively cheering for their team.  A weird sense of entitlement in the air at that place...

Hey Tecmo...long time ...I see the Bombers were ok at St Lawrence...

No more talk of that Union game....my family had nightmares for weeks..just kidding....that RB Arcidicano..(spelling) was a monster...

It will be interesting to see what the Union game brings...away can be a challenge..

Good to see everybody on here....shout out to Pep down in Mayberry...hope the band is still rockin...

[AUPepBand]

The Union-Ithaca playoff game was a sad one... Felicetti marched the boys right down the field on the first possesion, scoring on my favorite play from the old playbook..... where he'd roll right, then throw back across the field to the tight end.

Unfortunately, that was the most vulnerable defense IC has had in my ten years around here... they were carved to pieces.  Just as the Bombers got back into it, Union screwed up a squib kick, and it bounced off a Bomber helmet and deflected right back to the kicker.  At that point, it was game over.

Union fans were interesting to say the least.  They seemed genuinely offended that so many Ithaca people showed up, and were actively cheering for their team.  A weird sense of entitlement in the air at that place...

Hey Tecmo...long time ...I see the Bombers were ok at St Lawrence...

No more talk of that Union game....my family had nightmares for weeks..just kidding....that RB Arcidicano..(spelling) was a monster...

It will be interesting to see what the Union game brings...away can be a challenge..

Good to see everybody on here....shout out to Pep down in Mayberry...hope the band is still rockin...

Hey Bob! Long time no post! Pep is getting mucho shout outs of late. The band is still rockin' all right...had eight make the eight-hour trip to UMass-Dartmouth Saterday, which was webcast (heard it was nicely done with replays and all), with the broadcasters giving a shout out to the band (heard from across the field) and to AUKaz00 watching back in Mayberry. Pep is looking to muster the troops for a visit to Jersey and dem FDU Devils this Saterday. If Pep gets his rear in gear and sends some music, Knightstalker may plug in with the band and play some bass!

Union has been an enigma to Pep of late. But from what Pep has read, the Dutchmen are putting something together much like they did in 2005 after a couple .500 seasons. Pep expects the Bombers will face more of a fight than last week, but should prevail.

[dlippiel]

Max is unsure about some things.... Ithaca's at #8 nationally, playing unranked (nor receiving votes) Union on the road... common sense says we should handle it fine, but the Union program is a solid one, and Grastorf is far from a seasoned veteran, esp. if Bergerstock can't come back. What do the more informed Ithaca (or Union) faithful think is in the cards for this Saterday?

The last time the Bombers were ranked #8 in the country, was after Week 6 in 2005. That week, IC played a 1-4 Lycoming team on the road and lost in overtime 33-30. Things are always a little weird on the road when it comes to Ithaca. They've been handed upsets in the past. And Union's going to be up for the game because you really help yourself with an at-large bid if you can get a win over a team like IC.

I know I've brought this up, but the Bergerstock injury could be a wild card. I know St. Lawrence has that beast of a defensive tackle, but 19 carries for 75 yards, while solid, isn't exactly the best line, although I wasn't there. Let's not forget, Ruggerio is just as green as Grastorf.

This is a real statement game for IC. Coming into the year, the biggest question I had was how this team would handle the six road games. This is arguably the toughest one (just IMO) and a solid win here really sets a tone for the year. I am suprised though, that Union is only 4-5 at home over the last two seasons.

I like Ithaca, 31-17 in this one.

don't know about 31-17. dlip thinks it will be a lot closer than that. although if U's D plays likt it did last year (which dlip does not feel will not be the case) 31 pts for a very strong Ithaca team is possible. Being a hardcore U fan to the bone dlip feels it imprudent...yes he said imprudent to pick the U to win on Saturday but feels this game will be a statement game for both with Grastorf showing his college growth and Coney hitting some long runs. U must mix up the pass/run and be successful at both, early, to keep incredibly tough bombers D on their heals. If Ithaca D gets comfortable with U play calling then to dlip the game will be over. Looking forward to a barn burner in Shocktown USA on Saturday. dlip wishing both teams good luck.

[realistic]

Springfield gets week #1 victory with a stomping of Fitchburg. Not saying that the pride is back to it's "Sharpe days" form, but Carter's #'s look like he may bring a bit more to the table here in 09. Threw for a nice TD and ran for: Josh Carter     10  188    4  184  2 79 18.4. dlip is just high on the pride that's all. Call it a hunch. Anyway, great seeing the season begin this week, dlip cant even handle the happiness that comes with the D3football season.

I couldnt agree with you more. I think we'll really know that we have something if we can beat up on king's this week.

I think it was Q who brought it up last week....but Springfield has a history of doing this.  2nd year QB really grasps the system and has a breakout year.  Could be a very interesting wrinkle in the E8 this year.

Things are always a little weird on the road when it comes to Ithaca. They've been handed upsets in the past.

that's an understatement.  I am worried about this one on the road as well as the (premature?) Top 10 ranking.  Hopefully it plays out to be deserved.  This week will be an interesting one for IC.  Was thinking about making the trip but SU - Penn State ended up being a more interesting option.  Hopefully Mr Warwick keeps the Hotline going with updates.

[SJFF82]

I realize that in a way you guys are giving Mount credit......but to say there were a lot of "positives" for SJF in this game is a bit of a reach.  if SJF's goal is to be able to contend for a national championship, well......YIKES!  I know Mount is Mount....but I thought SJF's effort was feeble at best, and unathletic to say the least.  They are NOT good.  Sure....if they have a good day they can beat anyone in the E-8..but what does that mean?

As I said last year....SJF showed signs of really stepping up to be an elite team, but that has really gone away.  The D-backs for SJF seemed really slow, and weak.  Don't get me wrong....I want to see what DB or two can cover Cecil Shorts.  #33 is one tough linebacker.  If you think Bailey is a "mobile QB", you weren't watching the same game.  SJF is a decent D-III team, but nothing that would make anyone think they could contend on a national level. 

I don't think SJF has a goal, this season at least, of contending on a level with MUC.

Look, in all honesty, how many teams can say they can realistically contend for a National Championship this season? Maybe 5 or 6?

That's not meant as a knock on anyone, but it's the reality we live with in D-III. Most teams aren't talented enough to beat the UMHB's, MUC's and UW-W's. So why shouldn't their fans look at a more reasonable goal? Heck, Ithaca's had like, 38 straight winning seasons and right now, as an IC fan, what's the best-case scenario? 9-1 with a win in Cortaca and maybe a couple of playoff wins?

Keith wrote a great piece on this on the front page a few days ago.

"People do remember more than just who finished first. Especially if you were there for dramatic finishes spurred on by seniors out to extend their careers another week and buy fans a bonus week of travel and tailgating."

So if you're a SJF fan, you should look for the positives, because winning the E8 would be a great thing for them. Just like it would be for Alfred, Ithaca, or whoever. Maybe things are different elsewhere, but for a lot of us, it's not "We're either Championship contenders or it doesn't really matter"

Hey Bombers...I am going to sound like a 'mush' for a minute....that was an incredibly insightful and spot on post.  You just made me feel a little better about the fact that just 3 short seasons ago, SJF seemed poised to go to the National Championship game trailing by 5 with the ball at the 17 with minutes to go in Alliance but now cant hang with MUC after the coin toss....HECK, MUC was even noticeably better in warm-ups before the coin toss.

With that said, with a bit more humility, Skunks post would have been fine.  I actually agree on his assessment BUT I think your post is an excellent way to digest the fact that SJF just aint going to compete with MUC.

[SJFF82]

Just a couple more thoughts on the SJF-MUC game...sorry, havent been on the boards since Sat's debacle...

One thing not talked about on here yet from SJF's standpoint...could be wrong, but it looked to me like the team lacked intensity.  Now that is easy for me to say from the comfort of my beer and bleacher seat, but they just seemed like they lacked the energy and will to pull off the would be stunner against MUC.  Talent is talent, but dont tell that to 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey team.  I very rarely if at all noticed a single gang tackle on defense nor did I see any enthusiasm out of the D when they did make plays....that sh!$ does account for something in a game.  

Second...I have seen MUC play 3 times now.  If all other teams are as relatively talented to MUC as they have been in recent years...MUC wins it all again.  On the other hand, they certainly did not seem to be as big and athletic as the past 2 teams I watched play.  They are unquestionably a great program with unbelievable coaching because they pissed on us without, in  my opinion, an unstoppable team.  Even when SJF kept it close in 2006, I felt like MUC had a quasi D1 team on the field.  This past Sat, seemed more like they won the game because they are very good, we were substantially outplayed that day, and they have exceptional fundamental football skills and know how to win as a whole.

[dlippiel]

Second...I have seen MUC play 3 times now.  If all other teams are as relatively talented to MUC as they have been in recent years...MUC wins it all again.  On the other hand, they certainly did not seem to be as big and athletic as the past 2 teams I watched play.  They are unquestionably a great program with unbelievable coaching because they pissed on us without, in  my opinion, an unstoppable team.  Even when SJF kept it close in 2006, I felt like MUC had a quasi D1 team on the field.  This past Sat, seemed more like they won the game because they are very good, we were substantially outplayed that day, and they have exceptional fundamental football skills and know how to win as a whole.

Well said 82 

[AUPepBand]

Just a couple more thoughts on the SJF-MUC game...sorry, havent been on the boards since Sat's debacle...

One thing not talked about on here yet from SJF's standpoint...could be wrong, but it looked to me like the team lacked intensity.  Now that is easy for me to say from the comfort of my beer and bleacher seat, but they just seemed like they lacked the energy and will to pull off the would be stunner against MUC.  Talent is talent, but dont tell that to 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey team.  I very rarely if at all noticed a single gang tackle on defense nor did I see any enthusiasm out of the D when they did make plays....that sh!$ does account for something in a game.  

Pep calls it "pep in one's step." Time to start a SJF Pep Band!!!

[dlippiel]

Just a couple more thoughts on the SJF-MUC game...sorry, havent been on the boards since Sat's debacle...

One thing not talked about on here yet from SJF's standpoint...could be wrong, but it looked to me like the team lacked intensity.  Now that is easy for me to say from the comfort of my beer and bleacher seat, but they just seemed like they lacked the energy and will to pull off the would be stunner against MUC.  Talent is talent, but dont tell that to 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey team.  I very rarely if at all noticed a single gang tackle on defense nor did I see any enthusiasm out of the D when they did make plays....that sh!$ does account for something in a game.  

Pep calls it "pep in one's step." Time to start a SJF Pep Band!!!

There is no doubt that passion and intensity are a huge part of a teams ability to succeed. Now this passion and intensity can be displayed in many different ways. dlip has seen teams that have been absolutely fired up and seemed as intense as possible yet came out flat or lacked focus. Sometimes yelling ad chest pounding isn't the answer, yet sometimes dlip thinks it is. dlip recalls hearing this about SJF before and hopes that it is not the case. Maybe playing MUC can at times be overwhellming to the point of actually deflating teams. dlip remembers playing Long Island in Lax during the Empire State Games where his Adirodack region lost 21-1. That team was so nasty and superior, as pumped up as we were, dlip thinks his team (him included) watched more of the game than played in it. As much as he wants to say he went out and challenged that team looking back he feels he was in awe. Maybe this was the case Saturday? Just some thoughts. Pep, to dlip a band could always be the answer. dlip would love if the U had a pep band play during games. It adds such a competitive college atmosphere to any sport! The Saxons are so lucky to have you guys playing away. dlip bets it helps all Saxons, fans and players alike, get up for the game.

[sjfcards]

Now that you mention it I did not notice much of the intensity that usually goes with a college football game. I think a lot if it had to do with being down 14-0 before the game ever really got going, but maybe there is some more to it. When I watched the scrimmage against Morrisville, my wife mentioned a few times that MO'ville seemed a lot more excited to be on the field than Fisher.
Maybe part of the problem is that Fisher is now expected to win games, and that pressure is making them think more than play. I hope they can get some intensity going forward now that the real season can begin.

[theoriginalupstate]

Now that you mention it I did not notice much of the intensity that usually goes with a college football game. I think a lot if it had to do with being down 14-0 before the game ever really got going, but maybe there is some more to it. When I watched the scrimmage against Morrisville, my wife mentioned a few times that MO'ville seemed a lot more excited to be on the field than Fisher.
Maybe part of the problem is that Fisher is now expected to win games, and that pressure is making them think more than play. I hope they can get some intensity going forward now that the real season can begin.

Yeah the bad punt snap that led to 7 and the bad punt that gave them a short field took all the wind out of their sails in the first 5 minutes of the game...

They had a .001% chance after that bad snap and after the bad punt the chances of hell freezing over than being able to recover from the 14-0 hole...

[Bombers798891]

Now that you mention it I did not notice much of the intensity that usually goes with a college football game. I think a lot if it had to do with being down 14-0 before the game ever really got going, but maybe there is some more to it. When I watched the scrimmage against Morrisville, my wife mentioned a few times that MO'ville seemed a lot more excited to be on the field than Fisher.
Maybe part of the problem is that Fisher is now expected to win games, and that pressure is making them think more than play. I hope they can get some intensity going forward now that the real season can begin.

82-- Happy to provide some perspective

As for the "intensity", I too was kind of disappointed. I mean, I know MUC jumped out to an early lead and maybe the game felt like a forgone conclusion after that, but even after the Hail Mary, I was thinking the crowd would sort of get behind Fisher a little bit. Although someone mentioned earlier the students not being back, which seems like it would cause a quieter crowd, I was expecting some more noise. The place looked pretty sold out, so it wasn't for lack of bodies...

Speaking of sellout crowds, I love Fisher's stadium. That handicapped seating is really a great addition and makes it a total not pain in the *** to watch a game with a lot of people in it. I'll be thinking of Growney when watching Cortaca at home, on my TV