http://www.d2messageboard.com/blog.php?25723-Scott-Puryear Division 2 Message Board, D2 Football, DII, D-II en Tue, 21 May 2013 19:15:46 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.d2messageboard.com/images/misc/rss.jpg http://www.d2messageboard.com/blog.php?25723-Scott-Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?489-A-Shining-Season-for-North-Greenville Sun, 04 Dec 2011 06:37:30 GMT How can one not like what has happened with the North Greenville Crusaders this season? I was able to listen to the Crusader - Delta State... How can one not like what has happened with the North Greenville Crusaders this season?

I was able to listen to the Crusader - Delta State playoff game on Saturday (through the Delta State Radio network, and all involved with that broadcast did a superior job). . . . And what a football game it was!

North Greenville stood up straight, played hard, and they were in it to win it. In the end, Delta State left the playing field with a hard fought 28-23 victory and they made their own step toward the Division II football National Championship.

I will write more on the shining 2011 Season just completed by the Crusaders (with an 11-3 record). One, perhaps two plays away from a shot at a national title game is really something to remember. They gave all of us who follow the Independents a nice ride, and for all of the North Greenville fans out there . . . ENJOY BEING YOU! ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?489-A-Shining-Season-for-North-Greenville http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?475-MORE-Crusaders!!! Mon, 28 Nov 2011 02:47:21 GMT Last week, in a response to one of the comments to my blog, I picked the North Greenville Crusaders to win their Saturday playoff game against a... Last week, in a response to one of the comments to my blog, I picked the North Greenville Crusaders to win their Saturday playoff game against a talented Mars Hill team. I even went so far as to call the Crusaders "The Team of Destiny." And that being as it may, I did not have a thing to do with the Crusader's historic 58-32 victory in the second round of the D2 playoffs. They won their ninth straight game of the year and the victory also avenged a (38-28) loss at the hands of Mars Hill earlier in the season.

The Crusaders are tough, talented, disciplined and well coached.

All literary license aside . . . . What You See Is What You Get, and It Is What It Is . . . and the North Greenville Crusaders are now among an elite group of D2 football teams still alive in the playoffs and in the hunt for a national championship. On Saturday against Mars Hill, Crusader quarterback Willy Korn came to play, running the ball for 92 net yards, and scoring on three touchdown runs and completing 11of 13 passes (one for a TD). The Crusader D was also in it for the W and Nick Rosamonda was in on ten tackles and returned an interception 55 yards for a touchdown, while Jamarius Robinson had a pair of picks and took one of them to the house for a 45 yard TD.

Over 900 yards in total offense was recorded in the game and Mars Hill's talented running back Jonas Randolph rammed his way for 200 yards rushing. Randolph is one tough cookie and for the season he toted the football 366 times for 2,170 yards and 18 touchdowns . . . Which is One Very Fine Season.

And speaking of a Fine Season, the North Greenville season is not over, and they WILL be ready to go this coming Saturday when they visit Delta State in the next round of the playoffs. According to North Greenville Sports Information, Crusader head coach Jamey Chadwell said, "It's pretty special being a national quarterfinalist. Our team wanted a chance to show they could beat every team in the South Atlantic Conference, and they proved that. Mars Hill had a whole extra week to prepare for us, and our guys came out ready to play and I'm proud of that."

Chadwell has plenty to be proud of, as do the rest of the Crusader coaches, their players, and their fans, and there is plenty more football fun ahead for all of us.

Please Do Not Take Things Too Seriously, and ENJOY BEING YOU!!! ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?475-MORE-Crusaders!!! http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?449-The-CRUSADERS!!! Sun, 20 Nov 2011 05:29:34 GMT First . . . To the fans of the North Greenville Crusaders . . . Saturday (11/19/2011) was a great day for you and your team. We will send some more... First . . . To the fans of the North Greenville Crusaders . . . Saturday (11/19/2011) was a great day for you and your team. We will send some more information out early next week, but for now . . . Not much more to say than:

. . . The Crusaders earned their first ever NCAA DII playoff victory as they smashed Albany State 63-14. The Crusaders meant business all day and lead 42-7 at halftime.

They advance to the second round next Saturday against Mars Hill. More on that game later . . . and for now . . . for all Crusader fans, players, and coaches . . . ENJOY BEING YOU!!! ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?449-The-CRUSADERS!!! http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?437-Plenty-of-Football-on-11-19 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 02:59:52 GMT There is still plenty of football to write about, plenty of teams and coaches and players to honor, and plenty of great fun to have as the 2011... There is still plenty of football to write about, plenty of teams and coaches and players to honor, and plenty of great fun to have as the 2011 college football season winds down.

For the 15 teams making up the Independents, all have concluded the 2011 season but two . . . Minot State has a regular season game left, and for the North Greenville Crusaders . . . it is a very well deserved spot in the DII playoffs.

I have had plenty of fun myself, and I will continue to write in this forum for quite some time, and for this coming Saturday, some predictions are in order.

So far this season, my overall record stands at 98-33 and what that really means is that I have been wrong 33 times. Being right all the time could be fun, and even though I have met several people over the years who think they are right all the time, let them go someplace and tell everyone else how smart they are.

For this weekend:

The Beavers of Minot State (2-7) will travel to UT-San Antonio (3-6). The Beavers have worked hard this year and they will give it their all in the game, but I have to give the predicted win to UT-SA.

The Crusaders of North Greenville (9-2) have won seven straight games and they are flying high as they prepare for their huge DII first round playoff game against the Golden Rams of Albany State (8-3). Word has it that the NG campus is alive with football enthusiasm and Crusader fans are quite ready for a very good college football game. IT SHOULD be a good one, as both squads are ranked in the D2 Football.com Top 25 Poll. It is the prediction of this writer that a very motivated Crusader team will be victorious.

As Captain James T. Kirk was so fond of saying . . . BEAM ME UP, SCOTTY. Also, I would love to say I'LL BE BACK, but I am not nearly as tough as The Terminator . . . however, I WILL be back with you next week. So until then . . . SMILE MORE OFTEN . . . and ENJOY BEING YOU!!! ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?437-Plenty-of-Football-on-11-19 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?396-Independents-Predictions-for-11-12 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 03:42:56 GMT There are ten big games on the slate for the second Saturday in November and things are quickly winding down on what has been a fun and exciting 2011... There are ten big games on the slate for the second Saturday in November and things are quickly winding down on what has been a fun and exciting 2011 football season.

As far as my picks, my 9-3 record for last week put me at 91-30 for this season.

So for this weekend???

Central Oklahoma (2-8) will host Lindenwood (7-3). I thought UCO would do a lot better this year, and it is what it is. I will go with Lindenwood for the win.

Central State (1-9) will play on the road in Indiana against St. Francis (7-2) and St. Francis should pick up their 8th win of the year.

Kentucky Wesleyan (1-9) will host William Jewell (3-6) in a matchup between Independents. I will go with the William Jewell Cardinals.

Missouri S&T (6-4) will visit South Dakota (5-4). I go with South Dakota.

North Greenville (8-2) will host Notre Dame of Ohio (5-5). The NG Crusaders have been hot and will stay that way and get their 9th win of the season. Both teams are from the ranks of the Independents.

Northeastern State (7-3) will host 2nd ranked Midwestern State (9-0). An upset could be brewing, but I will still go with Midwestern.

OK Panhandle (3-6) will be at Bacone (4-6). Both teams will be playing for pride and I go with the OPSU Aggies to win.

Southwest Baptist (6-4) will host Truman State (3-7). The SBU Bearcats are capable of lighting up the scoreboard and my prediction is a W for them.

UNC-Pembroke (7-3) will host West Liberty (1-9). The UNCP Braves should have West Liberty outgunned and they will pick up their 8th win of the year.

Urbana (7-3) will host Lincoln (1-9). The Urbana Blue Knights should get their sixth straight win and it will be their 8th of a very solid season.

Minot State (2-7) will take this weekend off and on 11/19 they will visit UT-San Antonio (3-5).

Both Sioux Falls (5-4) and St. Josephs (2-8) have concluded their seasons.

For now, make sure that you try to laugh as much as you can, and . . . ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?396-Independents-Predictions-for-11-12 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?372-Independents-Predictions-for-11-5 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:49:59 GMT There are twelve big games set for the first Saturday in November for the Independents, and they will not get much bigger than when the UNC-Pembroke... There are twelve big games set for the first Saturday in November for the Independents, and they will not get much bigger than when the UNC-Pembroke Braves (7-2) host Winston Salem (9-0). The Braves are regionally ranked and the Rams are a nationally ranked top ten squad. This writer has already stepped up and predicted the Braves as the winner of what should be one very good college football game.

Eleven more, as well:

Central Oklahoma (2-7) hosts Northeastern (6-3) and Northeastern gets the nod.

Kentucky Wesleyan (0-9) will visit Notre Dame of Ohio (5-4) and I call the Falcons of Notre Dame.

Minot State (2-6) will visit Black Hills State (1-7) and Minot will get the W.

Missouri S&T (5-4) will host St. Joseph's (2-7) and the S&T Miners will get win #6.

North Greenville (7-2) will be at Wingate (5-4). The NG Crusaders are regionally ranked and deserve to be and they will get their eighth victory of the year.

Oklahoma Panhandle State (2-6) will host Northwestern Oklahoma (4-5) and the OPSU Aggies should get a victory in their final home game of 2011.

Sioux Falls (5-3) at North Dakota (5-3). Winter comes early to that part of the country and North Dakota should get a home field win.

Southwest Baptist (6-3) will host Emporia State (4-5). This could be a very good game and I predict Emporia will pull off a road win.

Urbana (6-3) visits Seton Hill (1-8). The Urbana Blue Knights have been playing excellent football and they will get their fifth straight victory.

William Jewell (2-6) will host Culver-Stockton (1-8). WJ will pick up win #3.

Central State (1-8) will visit Austin Peay (2-6) and Austin Peay will get the W.

My 8-3 record last week pushed my season mark to 82-27 (and that record is not bad, but probably will not draw comparisons to Jimmy "The Greek" Snyder, if you are old enough to remember him).

Enjoy the games . . . Enjoy your family . . . and ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?372-Independents-Predictions-for-11-5 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?360-Independents-10-27-and-10-29-Recap Mon, 31 Oct 2011 23:32:51 GMT There were 11 big games this past weekend among the Independents and winners included Central Oklahoma, Central State, Sioux Falls, Urbana, William... There were 11 big games this past weekend among the Independents and winners included Central Oklahoma, Central State, Sioux Falls, Urbana, William Jewell, North Greenville, UNC-Pembroke, and Northeastern State.

Those on the short end were Kentucky Wesleyan, Missouri S&T, Oklahoma Panhandle, St. Josephs, Minot State, Southwest Baptist, and Notre Dame (of Ohio).

Central Oklahoma earned their victory on Thursday (10/27), while the rest of the games were played on Saturday.

Central Oklahoma 30 Black Hills State 17
The Bronchos of UCO upped their season record to 2-7 with their 30-17 home field victory over Black Hills State (now 1-7). UCOs Joshua Birmingham ran for 142 yards and scored three times. UCO led 20-3 at halftime and for the game, UCO quarterback Landon Grieve threw for 283 yards. Black Hills fell to 1-7 and it was a nice win for UCO. The Bronchos had a big edge in total offense (404-185) and UCO kicker Chris Robbs was true on three field goals. Broncho defenders Tucker Cason and Colton Byford were each in on nine tackles.

Central State 36 Kentucky Wesleyan 0
It was a big road game win for the Central State Marauders, who got their first W of the season, raising their record to 1-8, as they put together a 36-0 victory over Kentucky Wesleyan (now 0-8). The Marauders scored at least one TD in every quarter and were led by quarterback Jeffrey Brooks who ran for two scores and threw for another. Central State defender Wayne Matthews was in on six tackles plus intercepted a pair of passes that he returned for a total of 45 yards. It was a nice shutout win for the CSU Marauders.

Sioux Falls 29 Minot State 10
In a battle between Independents, the Sioux Falls Cougars came from behind with 20 unanswered fourth quarter points to top the Minot State Beavers, 29-10. It was a good team win for the Cougars who did what they had to do to get their fifth straight victory and raise their season record to 5-3. The Cougar D stood especially tall and they sacked Minot quarterbacks five times. Three of the sacks were credited to lineman Jameel Medlock and another big play came when Cougar defender Robert Virgil picked up a Beaver fumble and took it in for a touchdown from 18 yards out. With the loss, the Beaver season record now stands at 2-6.

Urbana 42 Missouri S&T 7
In another matchup between Independents, the Blue Knights of Urbana and the Miners of Missouri S&T met on the Urbana field and both teams entered the game with 5-3 records. It was the fourth straight win for Urbana and they led 21-7 at the half and held the Miners scoreless over the final two quarters. Urbana (now 6-3) racked up 448 yards in total offense on their way to the fourth consecutive game in which they have scored more than 40 points. In the second quarter, Urbana senior defensive back Juan McKeever intercepted a pass and took it to the house for a 98 yard TD. Urbana quarterback D.J. Mendenhall threw for 211 yards and one touchdown, plus ran for another and Matt Hightower caught eight passes for 111 yards.

William Jewell 19 St. Josephs 8
Independents William Jewell and St. Josephs tangled on the St. Joseph field and the WJ Cardinals earned a 19-8 win to boost their season record to 2-6. The first half was scoreless but the Cardinals did what they had to in the second half to get the win over the Pumas (now 2-7). It was a nice road win and an overall good team effort for the Cardinals and their senior linebacker, Nelson Windebank, was in on ten tackles and returned an interception 25 yards.

UNC-Pembroke 23 Newberry 20
A W is a W, and the UNC-Pembroke Braves got their seventh W of the season as they topped Newberry, 23-20, on the road. The Braves (now 7-2) led 20-7 at halftime and held off a big Newberry second half comeback. The Newberry season record now stands at 3-5. UNCP sophomore quarterback Luke Charles threw for 255 yards and a pair of TDs while dependable senior running back Travis Daniels carried the ball 31 times for 169 yards. Both Charles and Daniels entered the game as category leaders among the Independents. UNCP linebacker Fred Williams was in on 14 tackles.

North Greenville 25 Catawba 7
The regionally ranked North Greenville Crusaders earned a 25-7 Homecoming victory over Catawba in a game that saw the Crusaders earn their fifth straight win, as they upped their season record to 7-2. Dependable sophomore running back Idris Anderson scored twice for NG and Justin Gravely was true on three field goals. NGs Isaiah Jonson had a key 63 yard punt return and a tough Crusader D held Catawba (2-7) runners to just 36 yards on the ground. Jonathan Sharpe of NG was busy, as the junior linebacker was in on ten tackles (two for losses) and was also credited with a quarterback hurry.

Missouri Western 31 Southwest Baptist 24
It was a fine college football game on the Southwest Baptist field on Saturday, as regionally ranked Missouri Western topped the SBU Bearcats, 31-24. Both squads entered the contest with 6-2 records and the game did not disappoint anyone. The Bearcats (now 6-3) held an early 7-0 lead but Western came back to grab a 17-14 halftime advantage. The Bearcats got to within seven points early in the fourth quarter, but could not get any closer despite a valiant effort. For the game, SBU got a pair of scoring passes from Dan Connors, while defenders Zach Moore and Chris Hawkins were each in on ten tackles.

Malone 31 Notre Dame 23
The Falcons of Notre Dame were on their home field, but saw their season record fall to 5-4 in a 31-23 loss to Malone (now 4-5). Even though the Falcons had a 14-10 advantage at the close end of the opening quarter, they could not hold the lead all the way and it was the first loss for the Falcons on their home turf this season. Falcon quarterback Rob Partridge threw for 165 yards and a pair of touchdowns (both of them to Keifer Titus). The Falcons will play their final home game of the season this coming Saturday when they host Kentucky Wesleyan, another member of the Independents.

Southern Nazarene 28 Oklahoma Panhandle State 7
The OPSU Aggies (now 2-6 on the year) did not play badly in the game, but squandered most of their best scoring opportunities with turnovers in their 28-7 loss. The final stats show the Aggies with the overall edge for the game in total yards (381-237). With their win, Southern Nazarene (of the NAIA) boosted their season record to 7-2. For the Aggies, Darryl Brister ran hard all day and picked up 83 yards in 15 carries.

Northeastern State 42 Southwestern Oklahoma 13
Tahlequah, Oklahoma was a good place for Northeastern fans on Saturday as their Riverhawks earned a big 42-13 home field win over Southwestern Oklahoma. It was the fifth straight win for the Riverhawks (now 6-3) and they seized control of the game early and refused to give Southwestern (4-5) much of a chance. Riverhawk wide receiver Trey McVay (the yardage and reception leader among the Independents) had a 164 yard day on six receptions, and took his season totals to 1,129 yards on 64 catches (and one was a 51-yarder from his quarterback, Johnny Deaton). Riverhawk defender Vernon Jones scored the first TD of the game after he swiped a pass and returned it 52 yards for a touchdown.

. . . and there, is a little bit about a lot of things . . . I went 8-3 on my predictions for these games and I will pick some more in a few days for the upcoming weekend. Until then, enjoy your week, and ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?360-Independents-10-27-and-10-29-Recap http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?328-Independents-Predictions-for-10-27-and-10-29 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 21:23:37 GMT For the games on 10/22, I went 9-2 and my season record now stands at 74-24. That record ranks somewhere in between Nostradamus and what the guy on... For the games on 10/22, I went 9-2 and my season record now stands at 74-24. That record ranks somewhere in between Nostradamus and what the guy on the next barstool can do. Last year, for the entire season, I was 64-25, so perhaps this year I am a little smarter, or luckier, or more into hyperbole. Also, I doubt that I will ever be the Most Interesting Man in the World (and I don't prefer Dos Equis anyway).

So, for the games among the Independents this weekend, there are eleven games on the slate. On Thursday (10/27), Central Oklahoma will host Black Hills State and there are ten big games on for Saturday. Hard to say which one of them will be the best, but Northeastern State at Southwestern Oklahoma might be a good one, and Missouri S&T at Urbana could be a good game to catch, as well. Also, I doubt you will go wrong in buying a ticket when Southwest Baptist (6-2) hosts Missouri Western (6-2). As a matter of fact, ANY of the D2 games for this week will be good choices to go see, and if you can . . . take a kid with you. . . . And so . . . .

Central Oklahoma (1-7) will host Black Hills State (1-6). UCO is due and will get the W.

Central State (0-8) will visit Kentucky Wesleyan (0-8). Somebody will be off the bubble and this writer goes with KW on their home field. Both teams are from the Independents.

Minot State (2-5) will visit Sioux Falls (4-3) in another matchup of Independents. USF has won four consecutive games and is very tough to beat in their house and they should get their fifth straight.

Missouri S&T (5-3) will visit Urbana (5-3). Both Independent teams have been hot with flashy offensive firepower and this writer calls Urbana in a close one.

St. Josephs (2-6) will host William Jewell (1-6). William Jewell in another tight one between Independents.

North Greenville (6-2) will host Catawba (2-6). Regionally ranked NG will get their seventh win.

UNC-Pembroke (6-2) will visit Newberry (3-4). The UNCP Braves are not regionally ranked but they should be and they will get their seventh victory on Saturday.

Southwest Baptist (6-2) will host Missouri Western (6-2). MW is regionally ranked and this one could get loud. I will go with MW.

Northeastern State (5-3) will visit Southwestern Oklahoma (4-4). Winners of four straight, Northeastern will make it five in what should be a good one between former Lone Star rivals.

Notre Dame (5-3) will host Malone (3-5). The ND Falcons will continue to play good football and grab their sixth victory.

Oklahoma Panhandle (2-5) will host Southern Nazarene (6-2). Anything can happen in the rivalry between these two and the OPSU Aggies are on a two- game streak and should make it three.

Enjoy the football and . . . ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?328-Independents-Predictions-for-10-27-and-10-29 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?315-Independents-Some-Very-Good-Games-Played-on-10-22 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 23:53:42 GMT There were 11 good college football games featuring schools from the Independents on Saturday and among the winners were the Cougars of the... There were 11 good college football games featuring schools from the Independents on Saturday and among the winners were the Cougars of the University of Sioux Falls who came up very big with a 71-0 thumping of South Dakota School of Mines. Other winners were Northeastern State, Missouri S&T, UNC-Pembroke, St. Joseph's, Urbana, North Greenville, and Oklahoma Panhandle State.

Coming up on the short end were William Jewell, Kentucky Wesleyan, Notre Dame (of Ohio), Central Oklahoma, Central State and Southwest Baptist. Minot State had a well deserved Saturday off.

Northeastern State 47 Arkansas-Monticello 46
It was one wild college football game in Arkansas on Saturday afternoon as the Northeastern State Riverhawks came from behind to beat Arkansas-Monticello, 47-46. Down 46-34 near the midway point of the fourth quarter, the Riverhawks stood tall to get their fourth straight win and raise their season record to 5-3. A-M made a last ditch effort for victory but Riverhawk freshman Kyler Harris grabbed an interception to stop a potential A-M drive with less than ten seconds on the game clock. Riverhawk RB Joel Rockmore ran for 131 yards and scored three times. Riverhawk receiver Trey McVay, who came into the game as the leading receiver in the ranks of the Independents, caught six balls for 97 yards and scored once. Last Saturday, McVay set an NCAA receiving record with 425 yards in a single game.

Sioux Falls 71 South Dakota Mines 0
The Sioux Falls Cougars won their fourth straight game with a convincing 71-0 road game victory over South Dakota Mines. It was Homecoming for the Cougars and they scored almost at will in their big win. Hard charging Cougar running back Jordan Taylor went over the century mark for the third straight time and pounded out 137 yards and crossed the goal line twice. The Cougar defense was tough all day in the shutout, and Matt White was credited with ten tackles and an interception. Sioux Falls has played with plenty of heart since starting the season 0-3 and they now stand 4-3. Mines fell to 0-8 on the season. The Cougars will host fellow Independent squad Minot State this coming weekend.

Oklahoma Panhandle 38 Southwest Assemblies 22
The Aggies of Oklahoma Panhandle State used a potent offensive attack on a very windy day and upped their season record to 2-5 with a 38-22 win over Southwest Assemblies (now 3-5). The Aggies led 14-7 at the half and cruised to the victory behind quarterback Kevin Lauchland who threw four touchdown passes. Lauchland completed 19 of 26 passes for 256 yards and also ran for 85 yards in 10 carries. On the day, the Aggies put together 526 yards in total offense and controlled the ball for over 41 minutes. Aggie fullback Jose Mendoza smashed his way for 92 yards in ten carries.

Missouri S&T 28 William Jewell 26
A pair of Independent teams went at it in Rolla, Missouri and the home field Miners of Missouri S&T stopped a William Jewell two-point conversion attempt with 1:37 on the game clock to preserve their 28-26 win. It was the third straight Miner victory and they boosted their season record to 5-3. Miner quarterback Josh Firm tossed a pair of TD passes and the running back duo of Curterris Golden and Ryan Taylor each scored running touchdowns. S&T defender Chris Emesih was in on 14 tackles and it was a very good college football game between the Miners and the William Jewell Cardinals. With the loss, the Cardinals dropped to 1-6 on the season. The Cardinals will meet another Independent team (St. Joseph's) this coming Saturday.

St. Joseph's 31 Kentucky Wesleyan 21
The Pumas of St Joseph's boosted their season record to 2-6 with a home field 31-21 win over Kentucky Wesleyan (now 0-8). Puma freshman quarterback Tate Borlik made the best of his first career start with over 320 passing yards and three touchdown strikes. It was a good day in Rensselaer, Indiana for the Pumas. It was a very nice win for the Pumas and they have been working hard to get their second W of the 2011 football season. KW defenders Quadarius Wallace and Ken Stoklosa were credited with 11 and nine tackles, respectively.

UNC-Pembroke 42 Carson-Newman 14
The Braves of UNC-Pembroke continue to stay hot and they popped Carson-Newman 42-14 for a fine road game victory and they upped their season record to 6-2. Braves QB Luke Charles also continued to have a hot hand as the sophomore completed 26 of 35 passes for 394 yards and a pair of touchdowns, and nine different Brave receivers were credited with at least one catch. UNCP running back Travis Daniels ran for 95 yards and it was the first time all season that this excellent athlete was held to less than 100 yards rushing. Daniels entered the game as the leading rusher among the Independents. For the season, Carson-Newman fell to 3-5.

Urbana 49 Notre Dame 16
It was Independent against Independent on the Urbana home field and the Urbana Blue Knights got a strong 49-16 win over the visiting Notre Dame Falcons. The Falcons came into the contest with four straight wins, but the Blue Knights played well on both sides of the ball and boosted their season record to 5-3. It was the third consecutive win for the Blue Knights and they have scored 136 points in those three victories. The Falcons had been playing very well over the last month and their season record now stands at 5-3. Urbana QBs DJ Mendenhall and Evan Gehlert combined for 268 yards passing while Urbana DB Juan McKeever was also a busy man with nine tackles and a pair of pass break-ups.

North Greenville 36 Brevard 6
The North Greenville Crusaders continue to hit on all cylinders and they boosted their season record to 6-2 with a fine 36-6 victory at Brevard (now 3-5). Crusader Quarterback Willy Korn threw three TD passes to Sean Wright and NG running back Idris Anderson rushed for 100 yards and scored a TD. The Crusaders led 27-0 after three quarters and Crusader defender Jonathan Sharpe was in on eight tackles including a quarterback sack. The Crusaders have won five of their last six games and they guaranteed their second straight winning season with the Saturday victory.

Fort Hays State 38 Central Oklahoma 21
The Fort Hays Tigers opened up a 24-7 halftime lead on the Central Oklahoma Bronchos in Edmond, Oklahoma on Saturday. The Bronchos did not play badly but just could not catch up as the Tigers got the 38-21 victory. There was plenty of offensive firepower from both teams and they combined for over 1,000 yards in total offense (the Tigers got 529 and the Bronchos gained 503). UCO quarterback Landon Greve completed 31 of 49 passes for 298 yards and a pair of TDs, while running back Joshua Birmingham gained 133 yards on 15 carries and scored a touchdown. The Bronchos now stand 1-7 on the season while the Tigers are now 3-5.

Texas Southern 42 Central State 11
Texas Southern hosted the Marauders of Central State on Saturday and got the 42-11 win. Texas Southern now stands 3-4 while the Marauders dropped to 0-8. (There were no statistics available at press time.)

Missouri Southern 68 Southwest Baptist 28
The Bearcats of Southwest Baptist found the going rough at Missouri Southern as the Bearcat five game winning streak came to a halt with the Missouri Southern 68-28 victory. Though the Bearcats trailed 33-21 at the half, Missouri Southern scored three third quarter touchdowns and never looked back. The Bearcats were led by quarterback Dan Connors who completed 15 of 23 passes for 198 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Charles Johnson was a good target for Connors and Johnson grabbed four passes for 84 yards and a TD. Bearcat defenders Zach Moore and Austin Otwell were each credited with nine tackles. The Bearcats are now 6-2 on the season and Missouri Southern is 3-4.

I will make some predictions later in the week and my record for the games played on 10/22 was 9-2, which brings my season total to a close to acceptable 74-24.

Some teams win and some teams lose, and I thank Richard (one of our readers) for this very appropriate story . . . After his team lost 51-0 to Notre Dame, then USC coach John McKay said to the team members, "ALL THOSE WHO NEED SHOWERS, TAKE THEM."

For the coming week, try to laugh as much as you can because it is good for you . . . and . . . ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?315-Independents-Some-Very-Good-Games-Played-on-10-22 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?296-How-About-Some-Predictions-for-10-22 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:41:20 GMT NCAA D2 Football has been a good ride so far and with several games left to go, it is going to get better and there are 11 games on the slate for the... NCAA D2 Football has been a good ride so far and with several games left to go, it is going to get better and there are 11 games on the slate for the Independents this coming Saturday.

It should be a good one between a pair of Independents when Urbana (4-3) hosts Notre Dame of Ohio (5-2). Notre Dame has won four straight while Urbana has outscored their last two opponents 87-9. This one may be too close to call, but Urbana gets the home field advantage and the predicted win.

Kentucky Wesleyan (0-7) will visit St. Joseph's (1-6) and both teams have been working hard for a win. I will go with St. Joe's and the home field advantage. Both teams are from the ranks of the Independents.

In another matchup between Independents, Missouri S&T (4-3) will host William Jewell (1-5). The S&T Miners have been hot and have put up 112 points in the last two games. The Miners are the pick.

Southwest Baptist (6-1) will visit Missouri Southern (2-4). The SBU Bearcats have been pushing their way toward the Top 25 with five consecutive wins and they should get their sixth straight this Saturday.

Central Oklahoma (1-6) will host Fort Hays State (2-5) and this writer says the Brochos of UCO will get a home field victory.

Central State (0-7) will be at Texas Southern (2-4). Texas Southern is an FCS program and I think they will get the victory.

The UNC-Pembroke Braves (5-2) will visit Carson-Newman (3-4). Carson-Newman can be a tough house to win in, but the Braves have been hot, putting up 110 points in the last two games, and they should get their sixth win of the season.

North Greenville (5-2) will visit Brevard (3-4). The NG Crusaders have also been playing well and won three straight and look for them to get the road win.

Northeastern State (4-3) will be at Arkansas-Monticello (3-4) and the Northeastern Riverhawks have also been on a three game roll. The Riverhawks are the pick.

The Aggies of Oklahoma Panhandle State (1-5) will visit the NAIA's Southwest Assemblies (3-4). The Aggies are high after their 30-0 win last week over Texas College and they should get their second victory of the season on Saturday.

The Sioux Falls Cougars (3-3) will host South Dakota Mines (0-7). The Cougars have won three straight and will make it four on Saturday.

MInot State will take the weekend off and then visit Sioux Falls on 10/29.

Last Saturday, this writer went 11-0 and my season record now sits at 65-22 and that and about eight bucks will get me a beer in Wrigley Field when I next see the Cubs.

One of my favorite football quotes of all time came from TV commentator and former NFL quarterback Joe Theismann, who once said (on the air), "NOBODY IN FOOTBALL SHOULD BE CALLED A GENIUS. A GENIUS IS A GUY LIKE NORMAN EINSTEIN."

Enjoy the weekend, and most of all . . . ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?296-How-About-Some-Predictions-for-10-22 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?286-A-Big-Day-for-Several-Independents-on-10-15 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 03:02:19 GMT There are few things more fun than a college football Homecoming game and fans in several parts of the country attended Homecoming contests on... There are few things more fun than a college football Homecoming game and fans in several parts of the country attended Homecoming contests on Saturday that they will remember for a long time.

Trey McVay of the Northeastern State Riverhawks provided the Homecoming fans with a memory they may have for quite some time as the senior wide receiver set an NCAA record with 425 yards receiving. On the day, McVay caught sixteen passes and scored six times.

The Homecoming crowd at Oklahoma Panhandle State University also had a fun time as they watched their Aggies get their first win of the season with a solid 30-0 victory over Texas College. Urbana also earned a big Homecoming victory (42-0 over St. Joseph's).

In addition to Northeastern, Oklahoma Panhandle, and Urbana, the other winners from the ranks of the Independents were Missouri S&T, Minot State, North Greenville, Southwest Baptist, Notre Dame, UNC-Pembroke, and Sioux Falls.

Independents coming up short included Central State, Central Oklahoma, Kentucky Wesleyan, and St. Joseph's. The Cardinals of William Jewell took a well deserved Saturday off and they will be in action this coming weekend when they travel to meet Missouri S&T.

Northeastern State 49 Harding 41
It was a wild one in Tahlequah, Oklahoma as Chris Myers of Northeastern blocked a potential game winning field goal by Harding in the final moments of the game, then promptly retrieved the ball and raced 72 yards for a touchdown as time was running out. The heroics of Myers as well as the excellent NCAA receiving record by McVay gave Riverhawk fans plenty to cheer about. Riverhawk quarterback Johnny Deaton also set a school record for total offense with 572 yards (542 passing) and his team upped their record to 4-3, while Harding fell to 2-5.

Oklahoma Panhandle 30 Texas College 0
It was also a great Homecoming for the Oklahoma Panhandle State Aggies who got their first win of the season. Aggie quarterback Kevin Lauchland tossed three TD passes and ran for another as the Aggies boosted their season record to 1-5. The Aggie D held Texas College (0-7) to six pass completions for a total of 77 yards.

Urbana 42 St Joseph's 0
The Blue Knights of Urbana also celebrated Homecoming in fine fashion with their 42-0 victory over St. Joseph's in a battle between Independents. Urbana quarterback DJ Mendenhall ran for a pair of touchdowns and passed for two more. Urbana defensive lineman Perry Jenkins was especially tough in the middle, as the junior was in on 11 tackles. With their win second victory in a row, Urbana now stands 4-3 on the season while St. Josephs is 1-6.

Missouri S&T 52 Kentucky Wesleyan 28
In another matchup between Independents, the Missouri S&T Miners put together a strong 52-28 road game victory over Kentucky Wesleyan. The Miners (now 4-3) used a devastating ground game that totaled 305 yards and seven rushing touchdowns. The duo of Ryan Taylor (151 yards) and Curterris Golden (112 yards) led the Miner running attack and each of them crossed the goal line three times. It was the third win in four games for the Miners and Kentucky Wesleyan is winless in seven games this season.

Southwest Baptist 30 Central State 13
Another pair of Independents went at it on Saturday as the Bearcats of Southwest Baptist continue with their very solid season and picked up their fifth straight win on Saturday at Central State, 30-13. The Bearcats now stand 6-1 on the season and the Central State Marauders are now 0-7. The Bearcats were up 30-0 midway through the fourth quarter and held on for the victory. Running back Thad Everson led the way for SBU with 148 rushing yards on 18 carries (including a 54 yard TD run). The Bearcat D was tough all day and recorded two safeties. The 6-1 start for SBU is the best in school history.

UNC-Pembroke 52 Charleston 14
The UNCP Braves raised the season record to 5-2 with a very strong 52-14 road game victory over Charleston (now 1-6). It was Braves all the way with a strong defense and an offense fueled by running back Travis Daniels and quarterback Luke Charles, Daniels ran for 127 yards and two scores while Charles connected on 22 of 26 passes for 287 yards and two touchdowns. Daniels now has a school record 1,078 yards rushing this season.

Notre Dame 49 Ave Maria 3
The Notre Dame Falcons just keep on rolling and they picked up their fourth win in a row with a 49-3 road game route over Ave Maria. It was a very strong effort for the Falcons (now 5-2) who were tough on both sides of the ball all afternoon. In addition to the offensive fireworks, the Falcon D earned four sacks and ten tackles for loss. Ave Maria dropped to 0-5 on the season.

North Greenville 34 Carson-Newman 27
It was expected to be a good game as the North Greenville Crusaders hosted Carson-Newman, and that is exactly what it was as the Crusaders came from behind for a 34-27 win. The Crusaders (now 5-2) trailed Carson-Newman (3-4) 20-17 at the half but the Crusaders were determined to get the victory. Crusader nose guard Mark Smith was in on a dozen tackles and NG quarterback Willy Korn ran for two scores and tossed another.

Minot State 38 South Dakota Mines 7
The Minot State Beavers used 21 second quarter points and forced five turnovers on their way to their second straight win as they topped South Dakota School of Mines, 38-7. It was a nice road win for the Beavers (now 2-5) over their opponents (now 0-7). Beaver senior running back Tyson Shatz had a workhorse day with 21 carries for 102 yards. The Beavers will take a well deserved week off before heading for the University of Sioux Falls on 10/29.

Sioux Falls 44 Black Hills State 20
The Sioux Falls Cougars hosted Black Hills State on Saturday and earned their third straight victory with a 44-20 win on their home field. The Cougars (now 3-3) had a 35-6 advantage at the end of three quarters of play. Cougar running back Jordan Taylor ran for 147 yards on 27 carries and scored once. The Cougar special teams came up with a pair of big touchdowns as Angelo Pree carried a blocked punt in from nine yards out, and Michael Hicks took an 85 yard punt return to the house. Black Hills dropped to 1-6 on the year.

Washburn 48 Central Oklahoma 3
The Bronchos of Central Oklahoma had the unenviable task of traveling to Washburn to face the number five ranked team in the country and Washburn lived up to that billing with a 48-3 victory over the Bronchos (now 1-6). Washburn remains undefeated and now sports a 7-0 season record. UCO quarterback Ethan Sharp connected on 22 of 16 passes for 161 yards.

This writer was correct on all eleven predictions for the Saturday games. And what do I have to say about that? . . . . I will quote Winston Churchill: "BY SWALLOWING WORDS LEFT UNSAID, NO MAN HAS EVER HARMED HIS STOMACH."

More big games will be coming at you in the upcoming weekend among the Independents and I will attempt to spew out some predictions later in the week.

For now . . . ENJOY BEING YOU! ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?286-A-Big-Day-for-Several-Independents-on-10-15 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?259-11-Games-Coming-for-the-Independents-This-Saturday Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:33:12 GMT "BEAM ME UP SCOTTY," said Captain James T. Kirk.

Earlier in the week, I quoted Charles Dickens and had some fun with The Best of Times and The Worst of Times in reference to college football. Fun is what this column is about anyway, and you should be having plenty of fun this year if you are following D2 football (which is as good as it gets for family entertainment).

The are 11 games on the slate this weekend for the teams from the Independents and only the Cardinals of William Jewell will be taking a day off. On to some predictions, and my 8-1 record last week boosted my season mark to 54-22, and by the end of the day this Saturday I could be 54-33.

Central State (0-6) will host Southwest Baptist (5-1) in a matchup between Independents. The Bearcats have been playing very well and should get their sixth win in seven starts.

Kentucky Wesleyan (0-6) will host Missouri S&T (3-3) and both teams are from the Independents. The Miners are coming off a 60-point output last week and should get their fourth victory of the season.

St. Joseph's (1-5) will visit Urbana (3-3) in another game matching Independents. The Blue Knights of Urbana have been playing well and should up their season record to 4-3.

Central Oklahoma (1-5) will visit Washburn (6-0). Washburn is a top ten team and the Bronchos may have their hands full. Washburn is the pick.

Minot State (1-5) will visit South Dakota School of Mines (0-6). Minot has shown some bright spots this season and they should show some more this Saturday with their second win of the season.

North Greenville (4-2) will host Carson Newman (3-3). This could be a very good football game. North Greenville is a tough place to play and the Crusaders will take advantage of their home turf with a victory.

Northeastern State (3-3) will host Harding (2-4). The Northeastern Riverhawks have been playing some very good football over the last few weeks and should get their fourth win of the year.

Notre Dame (4-2) will visit Ave Maria (0-4) of the NAIA. The Falcons of Notre Dame have been a hot ticket and they should stay on the winning track and get their 5th victory.

UNC Pembroke (4-2) will visit Charleston (1-5). Pete Shinnick (UNCP head coach) has a very nice 31-17 record with the Braves and he is in his fifth season, and look for him to get win number 32 on Saturday over Charleston. Also, old timers like me remember Don Shinnick (Pete's father) who was rugged NFL linebacker with the Baltimore Colts from 1957-1969.

Oklahoma Panhandle State (0-5) will host Texas College (0-6). I picked the OPSU Aggies last week and it ended up as my only loss. I will stick with them again this week and predict they will beat Texas College (of the NAIA).

Sioux Falls (2-3) will host Black Hills State (1-5). Sioux Falls, South Dakota has been a very good place for football for a very long time. I look for the Cougars to win their third straight and even their season record at 3-3.

Ernest Hemingway once wrote, "THE BEST WAY TO FIND OUT IF YOU CAN TRUST SOMEBODY IS TO TRUST THEM" . . . and that IS what it is.

As always, have some fun, enjoy your weekend, enjoy some football . . . and ENJOY BEING YOU because you have earned it. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?259-11-Games-Coming-for-the-Independents-This-Saturday http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?249-For-the-Independents-Last-Saturday-The-Best-of-Times-and Mon, 10 Oct 2011 02:22:31 GMT We football fans are a lot more cultured than most people give us credit for. In his classic A Tale of Two Cities, the great English novelist,... We football fans are a lot more cultured than most people give us credit for. In his classic A Tale of Two Cities, the great English novelist, Charles Dickens (1812-1870) wrote, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness . . ."

And so it is at the midpoint of the 2011 season for many of the Independents . . . the Best of Times and the Worst of Times. Some teams are still pushing to get off the proverbial bubble (of no victories) and others are enjoying things.

One place where it definitely was the Best of Times last Saturday was in Rolla, Missouri where the Miners of Missouri S&T celebrated the 1,000 football game in the history of the school. Celebrate? . . . You betcha . . . as the Miners exploded for 60 points in their one sided (60-6) victory over South Dakota School of Mines.

It was also the Best of Times in Lyndhurst, Ohio as the Notre Dame Falcons got their third straight win in a 45-14 victory over St. Joseph's. The Falcons were winless on their home field last year, while this year they are 3-0

There were nine big games on the slate for the Independents over the weekend, and in addition to the Miners and the Falcons, the other winners were North Greenville, Urbana, Northeastern State, Southwest Baptist, and UNC-Pembroke.

Minot State and Sioux Falls took the weekend off, and teams coming up on the short side among the Independents were St. Joseph's, Oklahoma Panhandle, Central Oklahoma, Central State, Kentucky Wesleyan, and William Jewell

Missouri S&T 60 South Dakota School of Mines 6
The Miners did just about everything right as they hammered the Hardrockers from South Dakota School of Mines. In their big time win, the Miners led 20-0 at the end of the first quarter and 40-0 at the halftime break. The Miners (now 3-3) earned 572 yards in total offense and were led by quarterback Josh Firm, who passed for 348 yards and four TDs. The Hardrocker season record fell to 0-6.

Notre Dame 45 St. Joseph's 14
The Falcons of Notre Dame continue to play well and they boosted their season record to 4-2 with a 45-14 home field win over St. Joseph's (1-5). Both teams are from the ranks of the Independents. The Pumas of St Joseph's drew first blood and led 14-0 after one quarter of play and 14-10 at halftime. However, the Falcons blasted out of the locker room with purpose to start the second half and scored 34 unanswered points for their big win. Sophomore running back Pedro Powell led the way for the Falcons with 168 yards in 19 carries and two touchdowns.

North Greenville 49 Central State 20
The Crusaders of North Greenville upped their season record to 4-2 with a big second half and 49-20 win at Central State (0-6). Both teams are from the ranks of the Independents. On the day, the Crusaders gained 579 yards in total offense. Crusader QB Willy Korn passed for 323 yards and three scores.

Urbana 45 Kentucky Wesleyan 9
In another battle between Independents, the Urbana Blue Knights earned a 45-9 win at Kentucky Wesleyan. With the win, the Blue Knights evened their season record at 3-3 while the Panthers fell to 0-6. Though Urbana led just 7-6 at the end of the first quarter; behind quarterback D.J. Mendenhall they outscored the Panthers 38-3 the rest of the way. On the day, Mendenhall (a sophomore) connected on four scoring passes and ran for another TD.

Southwest Baptist 35 William Jewell 0
In another matchup between Independents, the Bearcats of Southwest Baptist won their fourth straight game with a convincing 35-0 victory over William Jewell. The 35 points was their highest output of the season and the Bearcat D was credited with seven tackles for losses on the way to their first shutout of 2011. It was a big time team effort by the Bearcats and they enter the second half of this season on a roll. The Bearcats are now 5-1 on the year while William Jewell dropped to 1-5.

Northeastern State 38 Southeastern Oklahoma 28
The Riverhawks of Northeastern State evened their season record at 3-3 with a 38-28 victory at Southeastern Oklahoma in a very good ballgame. A big 24 point second quarter gave the Riverhawks a 24-7 halftime advantage. A game ball probably went to Riverhawk sophomore signal caller Johnny Deaton who ran for a pair of TDs and tossed three scoring passes. The Southeastern season mark fell to 2-3.

UNC-Pembroke 58 Tusculum 38
It was a wild one on Saturday as the Braves of UNCP boosted their record to 4-2 with a big 58-38 win over Tusculum. The Braves came out of the blocks very quickly for a 20-0 advantage at the end of the first quarter and only had to look back over their respective shoulders a couple of times. The Braves have been playing very well, and on Saturday they set school records for total yards (668) as well as points. Running back Travis Daniels ran for 177 yards and quarterback Luke Charles passed for 367 yards and four touchdowns. Tusculum fell to 1-5.

Cal Poly 44 Central Oklahoma 25
The Bronchos of Central Oklahoma went to San Luis Obispo, California to play some football and that is exactly what they did against Cal Poly (an FCS school). The Bronchos (1-5) led 19-10 at the half before Cal Poly came back to grab the 44-25 win. UCO quarterback Ethan Sharpe put the ball in the air 50 times and completed 30 of them for a total of 290 yards and a pair of scores. With the win, the season record for Cal Poly now stands at 2-3

Langston 41 Oklahoma Panhandle 23
Still in search of their first win of the season, the OPSU Aggies started well enough with an early 3-0 lead and trailed by just four at the half (7-3). However, a strong second half running attack by Langston (now 4-2) earned them a 41-23 win and dropped the Aggies to 0-5 on the season. The Aggies did not play badly and showed some major spark at times.

I will make some predictions later in the week. As far as my picks for last weekend, I went 8-1, and for the season I am in at 54-22. However, I am not calling it the Best of Times just yet on my prognostications because there is a whole lot of college football left to be played, and I could find myself in the Worst of Times. After all, I am a Cubs fan, too.

Want to try something that will give you the Best of Times? . . . Take in a college football game someplace and take a kid with you. The youngster will enjoy it and you will also ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?249-For-the-Independents-Last-Saturday-The-Best-of-Times-and http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?242-Nine-Big-Games-for-Independents-on-10-8 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 21:29:00 GMT For the Independents, there are nine big games this weekend, and four of them will be head to head games between schools from the list of the... For the Independents, there are nine big games this weekend, and four of them will be head to head games between schools from the list of the Independents.

I have been waiting for a couple of teams to step up and show what they can do, and Central Oklahoma did that last week with a 41-21 win over East Central. I picked East Central to win and UCO proved me wrong.

Heading in to this weekend my season record on predictions stands at a kinda sorta close to being OK at 46-21. This Saturday, I am looking for the Aggies of Oklahoma Panhandle State to get off the bubble and earn their first victory of 2011. The Aggies (0-4) will visit Langston (3-2) of the NAIA. I have picked the Aggies to win three times so far this year and missed each time. It is time for the Aggies to step up and I say they will.

William Jewell (1-4) will host Southwest Baptist (4-1) in a battle of the Independents. The Bearcats of Southwest Baptist are on a three game winning streak and should extend it to four.

Urbana (2-3) will visit Kentucky Wesleyan (0-5) in another matchup between Independents. Urbana has a couple of big wins this season and should even their record at 3-3 in this one.

St. Joseph's (1-4) will visit Notre Dame (3-2) in more action among Independents. Notre Dame has won three of their last four and this writer thinks they will boost their season record to 4-2 with a win.

Central State (0-5) will host North Greenville (3-2) in a tussle between Independents. North Greenville was a top 25 team earlier in the season and they want to get back there. NGU will get the win.

UNC-Pembroke (3-2) will host Tusculum (1-4). UNCP should be quite ready to get back to work after their 42-33 loss at Catawba last weekend, and they should boost their record to 4-2 with a win.

Northeastern State (2-3) will be at Southeastern Oklahoma (2-2). This could be a very close game and Northeastern should benefit from having last weekend off and will boost their record to 3-3.

Missouri S&T (2-3) will host South Dakota School of Mines (0-5). Missouri S&T has had some bright spots this year and they should even their record this Saturday with a home field victory.

Central Oklahoma (1-4) will visit Cal Poly (1-3) of the FCS. UCO came alive last week and got their first win of the year against a pretty good team from East Central. It could be a close one this Saturday, but Cal Poly gets the edge.

Both Minot State and Sioux Falls will have the weekend off.

Just a little NFL . . . Detroit will be a good place to be for Monday Night Football when the undefeated Lions (4-0) host the Chicago Bears (2-2). It should be an old fashioned smack-you-in-the-mouth pro ballgame from the old Black and Blue Division. I will not be in Detroit, but my recliner will work just fine. About the only thing missing will be the music of Hank Williams Jr. . . Hank Jr. got the boot for putting his own boot in his mouth in the eyes of some folks who think sports and political opinions do not mix. We will have to go on without Hank Jr. and all his rowdy friends and the Bears-Lions game will be just as good without them.

Enjoy any football game you can get to this weekend and if you end up watching one from your recliner . . . enjoy that too . . . and ENJOY BEING YOU. ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?242-Nine-Big-Games-for-Independents-on-10-8 http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?216-Seven-Winners-from-the-Independents-on-10-1 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 02:56:37 GMT It was a busy Saturday for the Independents and there were ten big games. Winners included Central Oklahoma, Southwest Baptist, Notre Dame, Sioux... It was a busy Saturday for the Independents and there were ten big games. Winners included Central Oklahoma, Southwest Baptist, Notre Dame, Sioux Falls, North Greenville, Minot State, and St. Joseph's.

Those teams coming up short were Missouri S&T, Kentucky Wesleyan, Urbana, Central State, William Jewell, and UNC-Pembroke.

The Aggies of Oklahoma Panhandle State and the Northeastern State Riverhawks took a well deserved week off and both will be back in action this coming Saturday.

Central Oklahoma 41 East Central 21
The Bronchos of Central Oklahoma, winless in their first four games, played with purpose on their home field and picked up a 41-21 victory over instate rival East Central. UCO (now 1-4) never trailed in the contest and were led by running back Joshua Birmingham who gained 233 yards on 20 carries, including a 74-yard scoring run. For the Broncho defense, Creadell Pennon had a huge day with eight tackles, three pass breakups, and three interceptions (one which he returned for 100 yards and a touchdown.) East Central fell to 3-2 on the year and it was a great day for the Bronchos.

Southwest Baptist 28 Urbana 12
It was also a good day in Bolivar, Missouri for the Southwest Baptist Bearcats, who took to their home field and upped their season record to 4-1 with a 28-12 victory over Urbana (now 2-3). It was a battle between Independents, and the Bearcat victory made Keith Allen the winningest coach in their history. The Bearcats were led by quarterback Dan Connors who ran for 116 yards and passed for 320 yards and a pair of scores. Urbana fell to 2-3 for the season.

Notre Dame 34 Central State 16
In a battle of the Independents, Notre Dame earned a nice 34-16 Homecoming victory over Central State. ND quarterback Rob Partridge tossed a pair of scoring passes and running back Pedro Powell ran for 124 yards and it was the first time ever that Notre Dame had earned back to back wins. The Notre Dame Falcons (now 3-2) trailed early in the game, but fought back for the victory and it was a great day for Notre Dame football. Central State fell to 0-5.

Sioux Falls 35 William Jewell 10
The Sioux Falls Cougars (now 2-3) did what they had to do in a determined 35-10 home field win over William Jewell (1-4). Both squads are part of the Independents, and it was close for a good part of the first half with the Cougars going to the halftime break leading 21-10. A punishing Cougar ground attack (285 yards) along with a balanced passing game (217 yards) told a great deal of the story. Cougar quarterback Carrington Hanna had a monster day with 217 yards passing (and a pair of TDs) and he also ran for 116 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns.

North Greenville 35 Lenoir-Rhyne 27
The Crusaders of North Greenville were definitely in it to win it on Saturday. Playing on their home turf, they trailed 21-14 at halftime but scored three straight TDs to up their season record to 3-2 with their 35-27 victory over a good team from Lenoir-Rhyne. The Crusaders had an especially effective running attack on the day with 278 rushing yards, and were led by Teryan Rucker who scored twice and gained 106 yards (his third straight game over the century mark). Lenoir-Rhyne is now 2-2 on the season.

Minot State 20 Black Hills State 16
Minot State entered the game winless in five games and took to their home field determined to get their first victory of 2011. That is exactly what they did in their hard fought 20-16 victory over Black Hills State. In the final minutes of the game, Black Hills was driving for a go ahead TD, but the MSU defense stopped them with a heroic goal line stand. MSU is now 1-5 and with their first taste of victory, they should be quite ready to move ahead for the rest of the season.

St. Joseph's 35 Robert Morris 27
The Pumas of St. Joseph's were a team determined to get their first win of the season on Saturday, and they worked hard to get it in their 35-27 victory over Robert Morris. The Pumas trailed at the end of the first quarter (13-7), at the half (20-19), and the score was tied 27-27 at the end of three quarters. The Pumas sealed the deal with just over six minutes left in the game when Darryl Jordan smashed over from a yard out for a touchdown, which was followed by a two-point conversion. The Pumas (now 1-4) had the edge in total yardage (325-223) over Robert Morris (also 1-4).

Northwestern Oklahoma 22 Missouri S&T 17
The Miners from Missouri S&T (now 2-3) came up just short in a last minute drive for a victory on Saturday, and lost to a good Northwestern Oklahoma State squad, 22-17. The Miners had a brief lead at 14-9 midway through the third period and the Miners had the advantage in the total offense (376-260). The Miners have a huge Homecoming game coming up this Saturday when they host South Dakota School of Mines, as it will be the 1,000 football game in the history of Missouri S&T.

Catawba 42 UNC-Pembroke 33
It is not often that a team can earn 535 yards in total offense and lose, but that is exactly what happened to the UNCP Braves in their 42-33 loss to Catawba. The Braves (now 3-2) were down 28-9 after three quarters but did what they could to make a game of it with 24 points in the fourth quarter. A very telling number for the Braves was that they were penalized 14 times for a total of 119 yards. With the win, the Catawba season mark now stands at 2-3.

Liberty University 57 Kentucky Wesleyan 0
Kentucky Wesleyan had the heart but still had a tough time handling Liberty (an FCS program). The Panthers trailed at the half, 31-7 and their season record fell to 0-5 while Liberty upped their season record to 2-3.

This writer went 7-3 on predictions and my season record is now 46-21 and the national unemployment rate continues to stay high, the national debt shows a number with so many zeroes after it that it does not really matter, and Elvis Presley IS NOT coming back.

Just a little on NFL football . . . There are few cities in this country that have taken more of an economic beating in recent years than Detroit, Michigan. For the good folks in Detroit, your Lions are 4-0 and have their best start in over 30 years . . . enjoy it.

I will be back to you in a few days with some predictions, but the most important thing now is that I sincerely hope that you have a good week, that you get to a football game someplace and enjoy it, and most important . . . HAVE FUN and ENJOY BEING YOU! ]]> Scott Puryear http://www.d2messageboard.com/entry.php?216-Seven-Winners-from-the-Independents-on-10-1