Spartan Hockey Kicks scUM Butt, win GLI

(2006 Dec 31)--All is right with the world: Michigan State kicked the Yellow Bellies' butt last night, 4-1, in the final of the Great Lakes Invitational hockey tournament. But, it wasn't that close. MSU outshot, and outplayed, scUM the entire game. Just beautiful to watch scUm get trounced... and not just in hockey, as the men's basketball team have crashed to reality with another butt-whipping at the hands of Georgetown, losing 67-51 (this, after losing 92-55 to UCLA last week). All the while, the #25 MSU men's hoops team is rolling, with a sound victory over Loyola to advance to 13-2 overall.

Now, on to the trifecta, and watch the scUM gridder crybabys get whipped by USC!!!!

Spartans Reel in Fullback

(2006 Dec 30)--MSU has received a verbal commitment from a fullback: a nice thing to see with the ouster of John L Smith. Ashton Leggett, a 5-11, 225-lb rock from Muskegon HS will join the Green and White. He runs a 4.65-40. Scout.com rated Leggett as the #28 fullback in the land, and he received two-stars. Rival.com lists him with three-stars, and is the 26th best player in the state of Michigan. Leggett was a MAC recruit, considering CMU, EMU, Buffalo, Toledo, and Indiana. But, MSU can use a fullback, since they don't have any.

By the way, if you haven't noticed.... Illinois is getting Zookified with their recruits. They have a whole offensive and defensive line filled with 5-star and 4-star recruits. Wow. What the hell is going on in Champaign? MSU is ranked at the bottom of the Big Ten nationally (#57) while Illinois is #3! At least they guys aren't suiting up for Michigan...

No Damage To Jenison

(2006 Dec 28)--As if you didn't hear, Jenison Field House didn't suffer any damage from the roof fire yesterday. A crew was working on it. Roofers usually smoke (and drink cheap beer and bathe just once a week), and probably dropped their cig bud on some hot tar...

ON TAP: Catch the GLI tomorrow and Saturday. It's MSU v Harvard at 4:30 on Friday (1240 AM, Fox Sports Net) and the title vs UM or MTU at 7:30 on Saturday.

And... Jenison Field House BURNS!

(2006 Dec 27)--So, the ES comes home, flips on WILX-TV... and... Jension Field House is on fire. It ain't burning down, but it's on fire. They've got crews on the roof putting it out. Da ES'll update later as he learns more... but it's hotter on the roof at Jenison that it was in Spartan Stadium the past four years...

My New Years' Resolution: Watch USC Kick scUM's Butt

(2006 Dec 27)--The ES is compiling a list of New Year's resolutions for 2007. Topping the list so far: watching the Southern California Trojans kick Michigan's whining butt. All those scUM fans who are crying because they don't get another shot at Ohio State are STUPID. 26)--Sorry, you had your shot -- if you had beaten the Buckeyes in Columbus, you'd be in the title game. YOU LOST. STOP YER BITCHING, MOANING AND WHINING AND TAKE IT LIKE A MAN. What a bunch of sorry saps. I hope USC kicks your ass in the Rose Bowl, just like in the good ole days under Bo Schembechler. It serves you right.

MSU Legend Mad Dog Thornhill Passes Away

(2006 Dec 22)--I was stunned when I heard the news today that Charlie Mad Dog Thornhill had died today of a heart attack (he was just 62). While I wasn't even born when Mad Dog played for MSU, I can say I did work for the Michigan Senate as a legislative assistant from 1991-1995, and remember having many conversations with him (he was a Seargant at Arms for the Senate), talking about the Spartan football victories and (mostly) woes, and we'd talk about Josh, too... The ES saw him a few months ago, and he looked strong as an ox.

He was truly a legend, one of the all-time Spartan greats who Duffy Daugherty said "hit like a frieght train." What did he like best: "hitting. I love to hit" he told me many times when we'd talk about football. His kids -- Josh and Kaleb -- followed him into battle for the Big Gren. He was a gracious human being who BLED GREEN. He cared about MSU more than anyone else I ever met. The ES is sad, but he's in Big Green Heaven. God bless ya, Mad Dog!

MD Addresses Crowd at MSU-Chi St Basketball Game

(2006 Dec 17)--At halftime of yesterday's 69-61 Spartan men's basketball victory over Chicago State, the Doctor took the floor and made a brief speech. He said the Spartans would graduate, contribute to the community, and win a championship. Coach Dantonio also cirlced next year's game with Michigan on the calendar, a la OSU's Jim Tressel. "We will measure up in Spartan Stadium on Nov. 3," he said. Yeah, the Doctor's got the smack talk down...

Coach Dantonio's Smack Talk At Banquet

(2006 Dec 15)--Damn, the Doctor sure can talk the talk. He was on top of his smack at the Freep's Dream Team announcement in Detroit on Thursday night. MSU's MD was the only D-1 head coach in the audience, and he pointed over to the scUM table to address coords Ron English and Steve Stripling: "I can assure you one thing, to this table over here. We will be a player in the state. And we will measure up. I can promise you that." Beautiful! Right on, Dantonio!

By the way, stud LB Joseph Barksdale of Detroit Cass Tech is strongly considering MSU, and he confirmed his interest at the banquet between Ohio St, LSU, and the Big Green.

Doctor MD Adds Another Lineman, DB

(2006 Dec 13)--It's time to add another lineman to the Spartan take for 2006: Jared McGaha of Powell, Tenn. If the Doctor has done anything so far, it's getting players to commit to MSU where it counts the most: in the trenches. McGaha is a 6-6, 280-lb recruit who also considered Michigan, Cincy, Illinois, Louisville, Akron, Marshall, and Middle Tenn St. He is considered a two-star recruit by Rivals.

But, more impressively, the Doctor added 6-1, 185-lb defensive back Chris Rucker out of Warren, Ohio. The kid runs a 4.5-40, but he's tall - we need tall DBs. He chose MSU over Cincy, Indy, Kansas, Kentucky, and the MAC: Akron, BGSU, Kent, and Miami-OH. He's a solid pickup according to the recruiting specialists: Rivals rates him as a 3-star pickup, but Scout gives him 2-stars. Rivals rates him as the 38th best prospect out of Ohio, and the #48 DB in the nation.

Mark Dantonio seems committed to everything EXCEPT the skill positions -- which, by the way, IS HOW YOU WIN CHAMPIONSHIPS. Of MSU's 13 recruits to date, 10 are on defense and in the trenches on both sides of the ball, and 3 are tight ends. Wow. Go MD!!! ES likes it...

Two More Recruits To Don Green and White

(2006 Dec 13)--The Doctor is in. He's most recently nabbed two more recruits away from his old school Cincy. David Duran is a 6-5, 240-lb TE from Marietta, Georgia. He runs a 4.8-40 and is considered a two-star recruit by Rivals.com. HE chose MSU over Cincy, So. Miss, Akron, CMU, E Carolina, and Hawaii. Duran is ranked the #67 TE in the nation by Scout.com. Scout states: "missed the first five games of his junior year due to an ankle injury but came on strong in the second half of the season. He excels as a blocker but will need to continue to develop the pass catching side of his game."

And, DT Oren Wilson will also come to MSU. He is 6-2, 273-lbs, runs a 4.9-40, and hails from Teaneck, NJ, but spent last fall in a prep school in Cincinnati. He reneged on Cincy to join MD in East Lansing. Like, Duran, he is also considered a 2-star recruit by Rivals and Scout.

Dantonio Walks The Walk, Reels In 4-Star Stud DL, 3-Star WR

(2006 Dec 10)--Today, Antonio Jeremiah, a highly-touted 6-4, 280-lb defensive lineman from Hilliard Darby (Ohio) joined 6-0, 193-lb wideout BJ Cunningham of Westerville, Ohio, to choose MSU to play college ball.

So, Dr. MD got his first pair of big-time recruits, and his biggest was right where the Big Green needed it most: on the defensive line. Jeremiah chose MSU over, get this, Ohio State, Georgia, Nebraska, W Virginia, Illinois, Maryland, Boston Coll, Syracuse, Louisville, and Minny. Rivals.com rates Jeremiah as the #4 player out of Ohio, and the #13 defensive lineman in the nation. He runs a 5.05-40 yard dash. Scout.com states this: "...a terrific run stopper in the middle. He has great size and moves pretty well for a guy his size. Jeremiah uses his hands well and is a guy that commands a double team. If not, he will simply eat you up on the inside. He can shed would be blockers and attack down the line of scrimmage." Welcome to MSU, Mr. Antonio "Man With Two First Names" Jeremiah. This is a GREAT start.

As for BJ Cunningham, he runs a 4.63 40-yard dash and caught 41 passes for 700 yards and 15 TDs last year. He earned all-conference, all-district and honorable mention all-Ohio. He is considered a 3-star recruit by both Rivals and Scout. He chose MSU over W. Virginia, Syracuse, Cincy, and the MAC: Akron, Miami-OH, Toledo, Ohio, and Marshall.

And, those of you who have been ripping the ES for downplaying 2-star recruits, well don't change your mind and start believing the ratings by hailing a 4-star recruit. Ratings don't matter, right? If you believe ratings don't matter, then Jeremiah has as much chance to succeed or flop as any other recruit, regardless of accolades. The way the ES sees it: this is a GREAT start by The Doctor and makes up for losing Nichol. We need stud lineman BAD.

PS - I think I'll start calling Dantonio "The Doctor" for his initials, MD.

Enough With The Talk: Let's See Results, Dr. MD.

(2006 Dec 8)--First, let me say the ES digs Dantonio. The ES thinks MD will do great for MSU. But, the reality is: putup or shutup. MD hasn't done squat yet. It's like praising Stanton the Heisman. MD has plenty of time, but 13 recruits in this wkend doesn't mean anything. He could have 100 recruits and Jesus on his side, and we could still suck. Let's see who committs to MSU before saying MD is impressive (see SpartanMag.com's smack talk). Da ES wants ta see results first. But, the ES has his fingers crossed...

By the way - rankings are overrated, but they DO provide some sense of talent in aggregate. If you have a Top 10 class, you are likely to have better chances to have a good team than, say a #50 ranked recruiting team. It ain't perfect, but you can get trends...

Dantonio Staff Complete With Narduzzi

(2006 Dec 7)--There you have it: MSU's new football coaching staff is complete with the hire of Pat Narduzzi from Cincinnati. Narduzzi will be the d-coordinator for MSU. MSU will keep former Spartan QB Dan Enos, who will now be the running backs coach. This is good news, in that Narduzzi is a helluva defensive coordinator, and made great strides at Cincy to improve its defense with few resources at his disposal, including average talent.

Other coaches include: secondary coach Harlon Barnett, linebackers/special teams coach Mike Tresselq, uarterbacks coach Dave Warner, offensive coordinator Don Treadwell, defensive line coach Ted Gill, offensive line coach Dan Roushar and tight ends/tackles coach and recruiting coordinator Mark Staten. All seven coaches join Dantonio from Cincinnati.

MSU Nabs TE.. but Losing More Than Gaining

(2006 Dec 5)--TE Garrett Celek of LaSalle, Ohio, has committed to MSU. Celek, who is 6-6 and 226-lbs, runs a 4.6-40 yard dash. He is rated a two-star tight end by both Scout.com and Rivals, and chose MSU over Cincy. Dantonio is now up two with TEs Celek and John Hughes... but has lost three: Kieth Nichol (5-star) to Oklahoma, OL Paul Simkovich (3-star) to Akron, and DB Quincy Landingham (4-star) to Wisconsin.

At this point -- very early in the Dantonio era -- the ES is particularly unimpressed with Dantonio's recruiting. These two-star diamonds in the rough are the same caliber of athlete that JLS was recruiting... and that won't cut it. The three top-notch recruits that left were all better than the norm for JLS... at best the ES sez you can expect a good, but not great, recruiting class for MSU at this point.

If MSU cracks the top 20 in recruiting, it would be a miracle. To date, Rivals.com lists UM #8 (18 recruits), JoePa #20 (14), Ohio State #21 (10), Illinois #29 (9), Iowa #31 (13), Nwestern #41 (15), Wisconsin #43 (10), Minny #46 (16), MSU #52 (8 recruits), Purdue #56 (14), Indiana #72 (13).

Pat Narduzzi Next D-coord. Dantonio: Who's Next?

(2006 Dec 4)--It is interesting how things change. CMU coach Brian Kelly, who was interviewed by MSU and Iowa State but didn't get the jobs, recently landed at... well, Cincinnati -- where new MSU coach Mark Dantonio left. Can you say "sloppy seconds" Cincy fans? Anyhow, that frees up current Cincy coach, Pat Narduzzi to head up to East Lansing to take over the defesive reigns and soon as Cincy's bowl season is over.

RECRUITING NEWS
OK, so let's look at the recruiting front, and who coach Mark Dantonio is now focusing on bringing to MSU, now that he has lost stud QB Keith Nichol to Oklahoma -- Nichol has enrolled at OU for winter classes. Two names pop up, but they aren't impressive specimens: TE Garrett Celek of LaSalle, Ohio and OT Jarret McGaha.

The big prize for Dantonio is realistic: he needs to reel in CB Ronald Johnson of Muskegon, who many feel is the top prospect in the country. Johnson's brother has already enrolled at MSU, so chances are good... According to Scout.com on RoJo: "Great speed and breaks on the ball exceptionally well. Runs like a deer, natural instincts and a ball hawk. Can turn his hips and change direction without losing a step. A step above the competition. Jumps routes extremely well. Hard to find weaknesses in his game. Super all-around athlete." MSU's competition for RoJo: scUM, ND, Tennessee, USC, UCLA, Ohio State.

OL From Milford To Join Spartans

(2006 Dec 11)--OL Joel Foreman from Milford, Michigan, will join the MSU Spartans in 2007. Foreman, 6-3, 293-lbs, chose MSU over Michigan, Purdue, and Cincy. He is considered by Rivals.com a 2-star recruit.

Spartan M-Hoops Sneak Into Top 25

(2006 Dec 5)--A down year for MSU cagers? Maybe not... MSU (7-2), after its impressive shellacking of Bradley and its win over Texas, is now ranked #25. Izzo is working his magic by turning this young, Green team into a scrappy bunch of rebounders and elbow-in-the-gutters. While frosh phenom Raymond Morgan (11.7 ppg, 48.7% fg, 5.6 rpg) is out for a few weeks with a stress fracture of some sort, he should return at 100% for the Big Ten season.

Congrats MSU - keep up the good work... the NCAA awaits... again!

Stud QB Nichol Switches Committ from MSU to Oklahoma?

(2006 Nov 30)--SpartanMag.com is reporting that stud QB Keith Nichol for now has switched his commitment from Michigan State to Oklahoma. Nichol, who was in the bag to come to MSU as a recruit for John L Smith, wavered after JLS was fired. After entertaining OU coach Bob Stoops over Thanksgiving and visiting Norman, Oklahoma, Nichol for now has switched his pick to become a Sooner.

This would be a huge loss for the future of the Spartan program. Nichol, an Elite 11 quarterback, has a star receiving recruit to throw to with top 10 national WR recruit Mark Dell of Farmington Hills coming to MSU. Dantonio has some work to do to keep Nichol intersted in the school on the banks of the Red Cedar. Nichol has a chance to be the backbone of a good class and a program itching to return to national prominence... let's hope he returns to his senses and decides to don the Green and White!

Dantonio Brings Staff From Cincy

(2006 Nov 30)--New MSU head coach Mark Dantonio will be bringing most of his Cincy staff to MSU. As stated in the ES' article on Nov 27 (Dantonio Picks MSU Over Cincy Offer Match), several have MSU ties -- including the ES' former neighbor, Don Treadwell, who was a receivers coach under Bobby Williams at MSU. Joining Tread are TE coach Mark Staten, DL coach Ted Gill, LB coach Mike Tressel, DB coach Harlan Barnett, OL coach Dan Roushar, and QB coach Dave Warner. And, the LSJ reports that defensive coach Pat Narduzzi will join Dantonio in East Lansing if he is not named the head caoach at Cincy. MSU QB coach Dan Enos, who was an assistant at Cincy last year, will likely remain. And, this also means current Spartans' OL coach Jeff Stoutland, one of MSU's best recruiters, will be leaving.

Just like an election, when a new guy moves in he needs to bring his staff and clean house. It is a bummer that Stoutland is moving on, he has done yeomans' work at MSU (although the OL sucked the last two years), but the ES supports the move. It is interesting that four former Spartans or those with Spartan ties will fill the coaching roster: Dantonio, Tread, Barnett, Enos.

Dantonio Snags First Recruit: TE Hughes Out of Ohio

(2006 Nov 28)--It took him just two days on the job, but day two brought new MSU head coach Mark Dantonio his first recruit: Two-star TE John Hughes of Gahanna, Ohio. Hughes stands 6-2, weights 260-lbs and runs a 4.88-40. He chose MSU and Dantonio because of his familiarity with the Cincy program. Hughes chose to don the green and white over West Virginia, Cincy, Akron, Marshall, Ball State, and Toledo.

And, coach Dantonio also got on the horn and spoke to super-recruit Keith Nichol in an attempt to keep his verbal commitment to MSU legit. Nichol will still visit Oklahoma this weekend... but, according to the rumors, Nichol is still scheduled to enroll at MSU in January... stay tuned.

Dantonio Picks MSU over Cincy Offer Match

(2006 Nov 27)--Interview from the Cincinnati Enquirer beat writer on WVFN-730 AM today: "Cincinnati matched the offer to MSU, but Dantonio chose MSU because East Lansing is 'home.' Dantonio told his players that he would only leave Cincy for two jobs -- MSU or Ohio State. Very impressed with the effort that Dantonio has made at Cincinnati. He will not wow anyone in the interview; he is a substance over style guy.... He will not coach UC in the bowl game and will be on the recruiting trail immediately for MSU... He is very fond of MSU, and his children grew up in East Lansing. Dantonio calls MSU home...All his staff are invited to come to MSU: defensive coord Pat Narduzzi, asst coach Don Treadwell (who previously coached at MSU), d-backs coach Harlan Barnett (former MSU player). Will likely keen Dan Enos, who came to MSU from Cincy... He started nine freshmen last year and did an amazing job to coach Cincy to 7-5 this year, including five top-15 opponents... He was building something successful at Cincy... He will be missed."

Board Approves Dantonio

(2006 Nov 27)--This morning, MSU's Board of Trustees unanimously approved a recommendation to hire Mark Dantonio and offered a five-year contract that guarantees Dantonio about $1.1 million a year, a $200,000 signing bonus, and incentives that could boost his income. Let's hope the incentives include victories over Michigan, Notre Dame, trips to bowl games, BCS, and national titles...

According to the AP, Dantonio was first interviewed on Saturday night (after Cincy defeated UConn 26-23), followed up by a second interview with university president Lou Anna Simon on Sunday morning. "Everyone agreed, head and shoulders, this was the right person for the job," athletic director Ron Mason said.

It's Dantonio!

(2006 Nov 26) -- Mark Dantonio will be the next head coach for the MSU Spartan at Noon tomorrow. The board of trustees will meet tomorrow at 8 am and a press conference has been scheduled for Noon. Dantonio is the head coach of the University of Cincinnati (7-5/4-3), which has won four of the last five, including an impressive 26-23 victory over Connecticut yesterday and an impressive 30-11 victory over #7 Rutgers last week. Cincy is likely bowl bound, so his status is up in the air regarding that commitment.

The ES LOVES this choice, he was a consideration when JLS was surprisingly chosen by Mason (see 12/6/02 report in the ES archive). Strong, strong pick, with DEFENSE FIRST. But, at least his offenses have a fullback.

Link here for Dantonio File.

Media reports: Scout, Det News, ESPN

Mark Dantonio, who is 18-17 at Cincy, will become the 24th head coach in MSU history, and the fifth head coach since George Perles left the Spartan program in 1993. Dantonio spent six seasons (1995-2000) as secondary coach at Michigan State, five under Nick Saban and one under Bobby Williams. He was promoted to associate head coach in 2000. Dantonio contributed to Michigan State's successful 1999 season, during which the Spartans posted a 10-2 record, were Florida Citrus Bowl champions and were ranked No. 7 in the final polls. The MSU defense was ranked 12th nationally and led the Big Ten in total defense. Michigan State's secondary under Dantonio was regarded as one of the best in the nation. The Spartans were ranked 10th in pass efficiency defense in 1998 and seventh in 2000. He was the defensive coordinator for Ohio State from 2001-2003, where he helped lead a stingy Buckeye defense to the national title.

According to the LSJ, after Saturday's men's basketball game, Tom Izzo joined a contingent with MSU president Lou Anna Simon, AD Ron Mason, and associate AD Mark Hollis and jet set across the country for inteviews. On that trip, LSU's Bo Pelini and the Dolphins' Charlie Bagget were interviewed, along with Dantonio.

WILX-TV confirms that five different candidates were offered two interviews, and the Dantonio won out: Dantonio, Bo Pelini (LSU), Brian Kelly (CMU), Pat Shurmur (Eagles), Charlie Bagget (Dolphins). Kelly, who has also interviewed at Iowa State, may end up with that job tomorrow, as ISU has scheduled a 6 pm Monday press conference.

Dantonio Next MSU Coach
Grantham Next MSU Coach
Which One???

(2006 Nov 26)--Dantonio or Grantham??? According to the Cleveland Plains Dealer and Browns247.com, Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Todd Grantham has accepted the job as the next head coach for Michigan State. This contradicts the report from Tim Staudt of WILX-TV on Friday (noted below). WILX must be sticking to Staudt's story, because the station's Jeremy Sampson has reported tonight that U of Cincinnati head coach Mark Dantonio has accepted the job. MSU has requested permission to speak with Dantonio, as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer. The Bearcat message board all but assumes Dantonio is headed on a flight to land in East Lansing at 9:39 pm tonight (Sunday).

Add to the list the fact the report from the Detroit Freep that former MSU assistant Charlie Bagget, now working for Nick Saban for the Miami Dolphins, has also interviewed. And, CMU's Brian Kelly is being sought by Iowa State.

We will probably find out on Monday or Tuesday. The race to coach MSU is heating up real fast...

Grantham OUT of Coaching List

(2006 Nov 24)--According to WILX-TV reporter Tim Staudt on Friday's 6 pm newscast, Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Todd Grantham is no longer being considered as a candidate for the MSU head coaching job. Staudt mentions the top candidates as CMU's Brian Kelly, Eagles' Pat Shurmur, and U of Cincy's Mark D'Antonio. Kelly will interview with MSU for a second time this week, according to Staudt. He is also being courted by Iowa State. Shurmur has not been contacted by MSU since he interviewed 10 days ago.

No mention of Bo Pelini, however.... The ES sez... did you see #9 LSU beat up #5 Arkansas today? Hire Bo Pelini!

Fields Named All-Big Ten

(2006 Nov 22)--It kind of tells you a lot about the season: MSU's Brandon Fields was named the best punter in the Big Ten, gaining First Team honors. Congrats to Brandon, but not exactly the only position you want a first teamer. He was also a first teamer as a frosh and soph, the first Spartan since Percy Snow (1987-89) as the only Spartans to be a thrice first-teamer. Center Kyle Cook was named a second team All Big Ten selection. And yesterday, Drew Stanton was named the team's MVP for the season.

LSJ: Jimmy Raye in Coach Search

(2006 Nov 22)--Today's Lansing State Journal noted a new wrinkle to the coaching search. First off, the candidates that have been placed in the hat, remain in the hat: CMU's Brian Kelly, the Browns' Todd Grantham, and LSU's Bo Pelini, and the Eagles' Pat Shurmur. The wrinkle: add in a new name: former MSU quarterback and New York Jets RB coach Jimmy Raye. Raye was the Spartan QB that last time MSU had any REAL success, way back in the 1960s (before the ES was even born!). According to the LSJ, Raye has been endorsed by 18 former Spartans of those glory years. A new coach won't be announced until next week, maybe.

Izzo As FB Coach? WAKE UP

(2006 Nov 21)--Sorry, people thinking that Tom Izzo would be the next football coach are daydreaming. While flattered, coach Izzo acknowledged yesterday that he isn't a football coach. We all love Izzo, but the suggestion is absurd. The ES is 100% sure of this: Spartan brass will keep him at what he does best, and that is coaching men's basketball. Gimme a break, Hondo, Detroit Freep, and the rest of you in the media. You're nuts.

Acutally, the smartest post I've read was on the TagBoard. An announcment will be made no sooner than after Bo's funeral service on Tuesday. ES says: Expect an announcement on Wednesday. I'd put my money on Grantham.

Grantham Coaching Update; Thoughts on JoePa Loss

(2006 Nov 20)--So, what is going on? Is Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Todd Grantham the coach, or not? You have to figure that a new coach will be named this week, and Grantham seems to be the likely choice even if Mike Fowler's report (see below) is preemptive. The choice makes sense and Grantham does meet all the points in Lou Anna's letter (see Nov 18 criteria at right).

Of course, the ES might be way off the mark by highliting the report and Pelini (or another) is picked. If so, great! But, I'll stick to my guns on this one and welcome Grantham to town.

Sorry for the delays in reporting: the ES was at another conference in Louisville and saw only snippets of the loss to JoePa (a couple of missed FGs by Swenson, which was a surprise; I also caught the fourth quarter). But, whenever you throw for 61 times in a game, as did Brian Hoyer with 30 completions for 291 yards, you are going to lose. Hoyer set an MSU record for pass attempts, but how can you throw 61 times and only score 13 points? That speaks to major issues, and thankfully we have seen the last of this consistenly underachieving offensive scheme. At least Hoyer got a work out for next year. MSU couldn't convert on four JoePa turnovers: typical of MSU this year.

Simon Lists Criteria For New Coach

(2006 Nov 18)--Interestingly, MSU President Lou Anna Simon is making good on her statement for increased transparency in the search for a new MSU coach. The ES very much likes how she is proceeding, including the public in an update on the search. Thank you Simon!

She mentions that an advisory group has been created with Mason and Hollis leading the efforts but also including Izzo, Mooch, Saban, Alan Haller, Gene Washington, and an interesting ensemble of other public and private executives, including NFL folks. She posted an extensive letter on the search for a new coach, with specific criteria:

1. The person must want to be at MSU and have a plan to build on our assets and our traditions. This has been occurring at Rutgers and Oklahoma with coaches without strong prior ties and at Notre Dame and West Virginia with coaches having strong prior ties.

2. For a program that is rebuilding, great recruiting and great teaching are essential. The person must be able to recruit in Michigan and the Midwest, but also have the ability to reach out to other national recruiting hotbeds. A great teacher who brings consistency and levels of peak and sustained performance is needed in a rebuilding process.

3. The person must establish a climate of personal, team and institutional accountability and discipline that build the necessary foundation for sustainable excellence and pride.

4. The person must demonstrate the capability to build and lead a strong and diverse coaching staff.

5. The person would be someone with whom you would entrust your son to help him be a successful person and with whom your son would want to stay in contact throughout his life.

6. The person must be an effective communicator and committed to community outreach.

7. The person must "fit" with the culture of a world's top-100 university and be a part of Team MSU.

Todd Grantham Takes Over As MSU Coach -Thank God; MSU Falls 17-13 to JoePa

(2006 Nov 18)--The media reports are swirling, but the ES received a phone call from his brother today with a pretty damn good skinny: Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Todd Grantham will be named the next Michigan State head coach early next week, possibly on Monday. Add to the call the report by Mike Fowler. It adds up, the ES hoped for Pelini, but Grantham is a STRONG choice.

Oh yeah, by the way, MSU lost again, although in a very inspired effort, 17-13 to JoePa in the official JLS finale.

No specifics were mentioned, other than possibly retaining offensive coorinator Dave Baldwin (the ES sez fire him and fire them all - let's start from a clean slate... Baldwin blowed the past two years, and he especially sucked in the clutch).

Congrats to Grantham! The ES is fired up -- he can't do any worse than the Idaho Clown! Seriously, Grantham will do GREAT for MSU. Note: the ES is in Louisville and can't elaborate until late Sunday at the earliest....

As far as today's game: if you throw 61 times in a game in the Big Ten, you will lose. It is moronic to think otherwise, and MSU mailed in their game plan early on. We need a coach who has balls to play hard nosed football -- like in todays scUM - OSU game, and not the pass-happy pussy shit we saw in the Spartan game. Fuck Baldwin -let's gut the coaching staff and bring in a fullback and some balls to the offense..

ES Predicts 42-10 JoePa Win; Thoughts on Bo

(2006 Nov 18)--The ES has little interest in today's Spartan game vs JoePa. With the Michigan-Ohio State game on at 3:30, mine eyes will be focused on that game from Champion's Sports Bar in Louisville. But, watch Penn State roll over the inept Spartans... I say 42-10 JoePa. bye, bye JLS.

The ES was shocked and surprised at the death of legendary scUM coach Bo Schembechler. While the ES never liked the man, and actually thought he was an ass, there is no doubting the immense respect I had for him as a damn good football coach. He could inspire and he could win (except in January bowl games). He was a legend and an icon in college football history. Maybe your team will pull it out for you vs the Buckeyes today.

Who Needs Football? Izzo's Hoops Team Beats #18 Texas, 63-61

(2006 Nov 17)--As MSU gridders limp to the finish line in last place, the young cagers soar to new heights under Tom Izzo. For those that didn't witness the defense gem last night, Izzo's Spartans had an intense, gritty second half that led to a 63-61 victory over #18 Texas. Yes, folks Izzo's tough defense-minded basketball is back. Watch Raymar Morgan, who had 18 pts for MSU last night - he is a fantastic young athlete for the Big Green. Big time rebounds from Naymick and Ibok. Wow. We're BAACK!

Who needs football? ES predicts a 42-10 loss to JoePa tomorrow to mercifully end the JLS era. Watch a coach be named within a week.

Stanton Questionable for Saturday; Davis takes UNC job

(2006 Nov 14)--Oft-battered MSU senior quarterback Drew Stanton may not play in his last game; he is still encountering headaches from the concussion he suffered in last week's 31-18 loss to Minnesota. And, the annual postseason football banquet will be closed to the media as decided by JLS.

In other news, Butch Davis has officially accepted the job at North Carolina.

JoePa favored by 17 over MSU

(2006 Nov 13)--Joe Pa is favored by 17 over MSU in JLS' final game. Wisconsin is favored by 38 over Buffalo, Northwestern is a 1-pt fave over Illinois, Minny by 3.5 over Iowa, Purdue by 13 over Indiana. Oh yea, in that other game, Ohio State is a 7-pt fave over Michigan.

MSU limps to finish after 31-18 loss to Minny

(2006 Nov 12)--Don't JLS' words ring hollow? "we're gonna get to a bowl game. we are gonna get it done," he said in the press conference after he was fired.

Nope.

MSU lost again, this time 31-18 in a miserable mistake-prone performance to Minnesota in the smallest crowd the ES has seen in years: about half the stadium was full, and there couldn't have been more than 10,000 remaining at games end. Drew Stanton was knocked out of the game early, and backup Brian Hoyer played the rest of the way, throwing 50 passes and completing 26... unfortunately he also completed two to the other team. Hoyer threw for 330 yards and a 26 yard TD pass to Matt Trannon late in the game. MSU was again inconsistent on offense... its first nine points came from the defense with a blocked punt and safety. The Spartans had just THREE yards rushing on the day, its worst rushing performance in years. MSU gave up 122 on theground and another 243 in the air to the Gophers. But, MSU just looked awful... the ES predicted a 28-19 loss, again pretty damn close.

Enough. One last game at JoePa as MSU limps through the end of the season. How painful to watch. Under JLS, MSU truthfully is the worst team in the Big Ten this year. Thank God this season is over. Hire Bo Pelini!

Swenson Wins Purdue Gridder GPA - Third Consecutive

(2006 Nov 10)-- Brett Swenson won his third consecutive gridder GPA, with a 3.83. The team finished with a 2.36 overall. Link here for all grades.

Game Day: Minny 28, MSU 19

(2006 Nov 9)--HEY! Grade the spartan gridders vs PUrdue last week! (Link here) The ES will be there this weekend to watch John L Smith's last home game in the cold, wet rain. A fitting ending to a clown whose smile washed off long ago. Anyhow, the matchups are intriguing this weekend, but the Spartans are tailing off when the Gophers are zooming. MSU's defense just won't be able to stop Cupito... the ES predicts a Minny win - link here for scouting, Game Day, stats, injuries, two deeps and more.

Shurmur Climbs To The Top

(2006 Nov 10)--The one thing you can say about Tim Staudt: he DOES have a pulse on MSU athletics. So, when Staudt -- the "Dean" of mid-Michigan sports (he's been here since the Stone Age) -- mentioned on his radio show today that Pat Shurmur was the leading candidate for the Spartan job... well, take it to the bank: it's Shurmur's to lose. Shurmur, a former All-Big Ten center for MSU and assistant coach to George Perles (who it just so happens was recently elected MSU trustee), is the current QB coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. He's 41 years old, and is itching for the job.

The ES likes Shurmur. He's young, a Spartan, and has the fire. There are other candidates I like more (Pelini, D'Antonio, Grantham, Tenuta), but he'd certainly be an improvement over the past two Ding Dongs we've had here. As long as he has the fire and doesn't have that shit-eating grin, I'd be happy. Going outside the Spartan family with the hire of JLS certainly didn't work. What do they say? If you can't keep it in the pants, keep it in the family? (ha!).

Eagles quotes from the Philly Inquirer (link here):

QB Donovan McNabb - "He's well deserving of it. He's worked extremely hard at preparing us, and he does a great job of making sure we're ready to go. He loves his school. He's definitely one that always seems to bring up Michigan State. I know he wants a crack at that job and he would be great."

Coach Andy Reid - "I think he would do a great job for them."

Izzo: Mooch Is OUT

(2006 Nov 9)--Although he said he would "die" to coach at Michigan State, former Detroit Lions and SF 49ers coach Steve Mariucci has taken himself out of consideration for the MSU football coaching job. According to his best bud, head MSU basketball coach Tom Izzo stated that Mooch felt the timing was not right for him and his family. The ES sez D'Antonio is the leading candidate (but he is still busy coaching Cincy) and the other top three are: Pelini, Tenuta, Grantham.

Let's also add to the list Charlie Strong, the defensive coordinator from Florida. Everyone is stumping for Strong as well.

Perles Elected Next MSU Trustee

(2006 Nov 8. click on photo to see who Big George is hanging with)--In an interesting twist of fate, former MSU head coach and athletic director George Perles was elected by Michigan voters as a member of the MSU Board of Trustees. He received the most votes statewide in an election for two seats, garnering 1,462,571 votes. He will join Faylene Owen as two new trustees. You have to wonder: what impact will he have on the selection of the next football coach... Pat Shurmur, his former assistant at MSU, is a leading candidate. Perles and long-time trustee Joel Ferguson are close friends who will likely have significant impact on the athletics program. And, that ain't all good. Nothing like micromanaging from the top. Hmmmm.

Grade Gridders vs Purdue

(2006 Nov 6)--YOU grade each of the Spartans and the recently-fired coaching staff for their performance in a gritty, but expected loss to Purdue. Grade the Gridders - link here.

It was a pleasant surprise to see Javon Ringer back with his 10 carry, 36 yard effort. Ringer looked a bit tentative, but played well. Stanton played fairly well -- except for the disastrous pick at clutch time late in the game. This dance and 21-yd TD throw to TJ Williams was a bright spot on a 19-for-26 efffort for 161 yards, and another 83 yards rushing on 16 carries. Jehuu Caulcrick added another 37 yards on the ground for a 144 yard rushing effort. Most impressively, however, was the Spartan pass rush against a very hesitant and poor Purdue quarterback, Curtis Painter, who finished 21-of-30 for 286 yards, 2 TDs and sacked three times. It was the most sacks and pressure the ES has seen on any opponent since JLS took over! The defensive line also was stiff to the Purdue running game, allowing just 77 yards.But, not enough for the Spartan mistakes, including five timely penalties and the poor inteception pass by Stanton.

MSU v Minny EVEN by Oddsmakers

(2006 Nov 6)--The Palms Casino in Vegas lists MSU and Minnesota as a pick 'em game this weekend. According to the Stratosphere Line, MSU was initially a 1-pt favorite but it has now evened up. The bookies list Illinois as a 1-point home fave over Purdue, JoePa as a 34-pt fave over Temple, scUM as a 20-pt fave at Indiana, Ohio State is favored by 21 1/2 at Northwestern. Wisconsin-Iowa is not yet listed due to Wisky QB Stocco's questionable status.

MSU Coaching Carousel; Grantham skinny; Stanton comments

(2006 Nov 5)--The ES has updated the poll on the left with the most likely candidates for the MSU job. Reports are that MSU plans to have a new coach in place by Thanksgiving, and MSU president LouAnna Simon is heading the effort. Butch Davis has arguably been offered the N Carolina job, but Davis has yet to comment, lets get real however and figure he'll suit up at UNC.

The ES received some input about Todd Grantham (defensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns) from one of his classmates, who used to tutor MSU footballers under Saban. She says: "He was Defensive Line coach here when I was tutoring... I really liked Todd. He treated the kids like kids instead of so many X's and O's, which is how Saban saw them. He understood the importance of keeping them in line but also keeping lines of communication open with them. He also knew how to teach, not just yell. I thought he was a real super guy. " Saban flew up to Detroit to talk to Simon and Mason about Grantham; expect him to be a serious contender.

QB Drew Stanton commented he would love to see Pat Shurmur as the next coach because of Shurmur's Spartan heritage. LSJ's Todd Schultz added Bo Pelini, the former Nebraska coach (who beat MSU in the Alamo Bowl) who is also the defensive coordinator at LSU. The ES likes it; Pelini would be a solid choice.

The LSJ blasted John L Smith for not showing up at the press conference after the loss to Purdue: but, who cares at this point, he is out of here and the less we see of him, the better. He never should have been allowed to finish the season in the first place...

God, Can't You Wait For JLS to Leave? MSU Blows It AGAIN, 17-15; Coaching Update

(2006 Nov 4)--If the ES ain't clairvoyant, then you ain't payin' attention. MSU lost to Purdue today, 17-15, and the ES saw the recently fired-coach John L Smith snatch defeat from the jaws of victory for at least the 10th time in his stint at MSU (the ES predicted a 15-13 Purdue win, see below). John L Smith and his band of misfit coaches made glaring errors exactly at the point you expected -- late in the game, when the chips were down. Most maddening was watching QB Drew Stanton roll out for a pass that was intercepted on a second-and-two when MSU was controlling the ball on the ground (Jehuu Caulcrick had just run for 8 yards up the middle, and Javon Ringer was running well). Why throw the ball? Dumb. Dumb, dumb, dumb. The ES can't wait to the idiot is GONE! Other dumbshit errors included JLS running a double reverse after the brilliant onside kick call --the reverse resulted in a 15 yard loss. Watching the play was like watching a rich man feed spoiled fish to poor children: it looked good but was a tease and it was dumb. I can't even go on.

The ES was in Newport Beach watching the game at one of the nation's best sport bars, Ruby's. The place has a retractable roof, about 100 LCD televisions, every tv football package imaginable, hot waitresses, and a Big Ten fan base, including MSU and Purdue fans. Even the Boiler fans said JLS was moronic and wished us well. Pathetic peformance by JLS, but at least the ES was somewhere where it was palatable. Next week's loss: Minnesota.

COACHING UPDATE & MOOCH
It looks like Butch Davis may be heading to North Carolina; Brian Kelly at CMU also looks like he is staying home... the more the ES thinks about it, the more he is digging an Izzo-Mooch matchup in East Lansing. Shit, anyone is better than JLS (note today's shenanigans). D'Antonio is a 4-real choice as well with real experience.

ES Predicts Purdue Win

(2006 Nov 4)--Using his infinite wisdom, his abacus, and a six pack of beer, the ES predicts Purdue will spoil John L Smith's going out party with a 15-13 victory. The ES will watch the game today in Newport Beach, California!

Letter from LouAnna Simon regarding JLS dismissal:

Dear Season Ticket Holder:

It is important that you, as a season ticket holder, hear directly from me on the day we announce that Coach John L. Smith will not coach beyond this season.

While we have a focus on the future, it is very important that we have an equal focus on the remaining games of this season. The players and coaches deserve our enthusiastic and visible support at these games. A clear showing of Spartan Pride will make a dramatic statement far beyond the stadium, you can be sure. We ask that you come to our final two home games displaying the colors, wearing Green and White, and providing our student-athletes with your full support.

Please know that we remain committed to a program that is built on the right values and that has a sustained record of success for individual student-athletes and the team. Our decision was based not only on the current status of the team, but on the future. We determined that new leadership is required after very careful analysis of our expectations, our direction, and our current potential to have a sustained nationally competitive football program.

I am grateful for your support and your love of Spartan football.

LouAnna K. Simon

Indiana Fire JLS Gridder GPA: Swenson wins second consecutive GPA with a 3.75

(2006 Nov 4)--With over 230 votes in, here are the grades from the Indiana disaster which helped get John L Smith fired. YOU VOTED THESE GRADES. The grades are based on MSU's grading scale (A=4.0, A-=3.5, etc.). Brett Swenson won his second consecutive gridder GPA with a 3.75, but more interestingly was that backup walkon RB Brett Kahn was second with a 3.50 and QB Brian Hoyer was third with a 3.18. There is a major drop off, with DL Clifton Ryan next at a 3.18. The coaching staff received a 0.36 and the team a 1.55 overall. Link here for all Gridder GPAs.

Criteria to Select Next MSU Coach

(2006 Nov 3)--In the eyes of the all-knowing ES, the leading candidates so far: Ron English (scUM defensive coordinator), Butch Davis (Miami-FL, Cle Browns), Steve Mariucci (Cal, 49ers, Lions), Gene Chizik (Texas defensive coordinator), Ty Willingham (Wash.), Brian Kelly (CMU, GVSU), Jon Tenuta (Ga Tech defensive coordinator). Recent names added: Mark D'Antonio (Cincy, Oh St), Todd Grantham (Cle Browns def coordinator).

The ES figures these critieria, per what you've read from LouAnna Simon, Ron Mason, and Dave Porteous:

1. must know MSU
2. must have understanding of Big Ten
3. must have a winning resume
4. must have coaching experience, head coach preferable
5. must be willing to take on a challenge by coaching MSU

Based on these criteria, the ES sees English, D'Antoino, and Tenuta leading the pack. Willingham is tied in at Washington, you wonder if he wants to leave, otherwise he is a strong contender. Keep Butch Davis as a dark horse, but he doesn't fill #1 and #2... The ES digs Mariucci, but is not as high on him taking over at MSU as others on the list. Mariucci doesnt fit #3 so well (6-6 at Cal, 4-40 at Det Lions).

Chizik & Saban coaching Update; JLS Skips Radio Show

(2006 Nov 2)--So, the ES is in Los Angeles and hears this rumor that Nick Saban dropped by East Lansing to interview for the MSU job. Whether he did or not is immaterial; he would never admit it in the first place, but it is funny to throw a name like that out there. Who knows, we screwed it up with him once, maybe we'd get it right the second time around... Texas defensive coordinator Gene Chizik, who was also an assistant to Auburn when they finished undefeated in 2002/3 and was named the nation's top assistant coach in 2004, can also be considered a contender to supplant JLS. Kind of funny tonight; JLS missed his radio show... wonder if it is a contract violation?

JOHN L. RESIGNS FIRED; Coaching Search - Names?

(2006 Nov 2)--PS - thanks to all the blogs out there who noted my spelling error "resgins." Beautiful...

But, did John L Smith resign or was he fired? Original reports from ESPN stated he resigned, but now reports state he was fired. It really doesn't matter in the end; Ron Mason stated that he would honor the contract, which means the Big Green will owe him about $4.3 million. Watch the video (link here); typical John L fashion, he blows the media a kiss and yells "Goodbye!" at the end.

Said Mason: ""We're going to honor the contract to its fullest... There's going to be more people involved in this search, that's for sure. It's not a science, that's obvious. It's taking opinions and looking for the right fit.... There was no real tipping point. We've had these discussions for quite some time. The performance on the field has not lived up to what we hoped it would be. It comes time to make a change, and that's where we're at."

So, who do you think is the next coach at MSU? Look at the poll at the left, but also consider Ron English, the defensive coordinator down as scUM. Also, looks like both UNC and Miami-Fla are interested in Butch Davis...

JOHN L SMITH RESIGNS!

(2006 Nov 1)--Michigan State football coach John L Smith has resigned, but will coach the team through the remainder of the season. He was told he would not return for next year, and thus he resigned... A press conference scheduled (link here) for 1:30 pm today included President Lou Anna Simon, athletic director Ron Mason and Trustee Dave Porteous. "The performance on the field has not lived up to what we hoped it would be," said Mason. "It comes time to make a change, and that's where we're at." According to ESPN, the university will buy out the remaining two years on his contract. It will cost anywhere from $3.2 to $4 million.

JLS said at his weekly conference that he had "no sense" of how to improve the team. This, on top of his having "no answers" comment likely helped push Ron Mason and the MSU brass over the edge...

WAHOOOOO!!!!!!!

The ES is in Los Angeles, and on my podcast on Monday, I asked the Sparan Naion to get rid of him before I returned next week... thanks!

MSU an early 2-point fave at home over Purdue

(2006 Oct 30)--[remember to Grade the Gridders v Indy!] The Palms Casino in Las Vegas lists MSU as an early 2-point favorite over Purdue. Folks: put your money on the Boilers. ThE clutzy, mistake-prone, prideless and ineffective Spartans have mailed it in, a la the BW era. The coaching staff is completely clueless, and you will see a prideless MSU squad flatter than a pancake on Saturday. scUM is favored by 34 over Ball State, Minny by 7 over Indy, Ohio State by 27.5 at Illinois, Iowa by 18 at home over NW, and Wisky by 5 at home over JoePa.

FIRE JOHN L SMITH
ES Asks: What More Do You Need To See? Fire JLS After Worst Ever Loss to Indiana, 46-21

(2006 Oct 28)--MSU returned to reality with a blowout loss at Indiana today, its worst loss ever to the Hoosiers, Do the ES a favor: print out the Fire John L Smith signs (at right) and bring to the Purdue game next week. The man has GOT TO GO.

The Spartans played best with backup Brian Hoyer and walkon running back Brett Kahn entering the game for the fourth quarter, and MSU down 46-7. Kahn scored a pair of TDs late. Drew Stanton had his worst game as a Spartan, throwing for only 100 yards and unable to sustain any offensive drive, and was unable to get a single first down after the first TD drive of the game until he left at the end of the third quarter! Stanton failed to throw a single pass downfield until only after MSU trailed, 37-7. MSU, the most penalized team in the Big Ten, showed continued lack of discipline with 12 more penalities against Indiana. In the game, MSU trailed 431-197 in total yards, converted just 3-of-14 third downs, dropped countless passes, can't cover any receiver, and have zero pass rush.

JLS is an emabarassment at press conferences, he is an embarassment to the school with his antics, he has a shit-eating "no answers" grin as a smile on the sidelines, he fails to inspire, and as he told ESPN announcers earlier this week "losses seem to linger longer than wins": he fails to psychologically prepare a team each week. JLS has a poor coaching staff that makes poor decisions at crunch time, that fails to teach the fundamentals (tackling, catching the ball, blocking, time management, no penalties), that is just a big-time embarassment to Michigan State University. While MSU may not be a championship caliber team, it should be competitive for Gods sake! The coaching staff CAN'T GET IT DONE.

This team, this coaching staff, is not good enough to go bowling this year. He is being paid far too much to fail, much less to not even being competitive. If JLS has no dignity to resign, we need to cut this cowboy clown loose. He doesn't fit in here, and he is a laughing stock. It is time to write Ron Mason, call him, and tell him to Fire John L Smith.

Somebody FIRE JOHN L SMITH Now! MSU Trails Indy 30-7 At Half

(2006 Oct 28)--MSU trails, 30-7, at Indiana. John L Smith, decided to RUN OUT THE CLOCK with 19 seconds left. Spartan QB Drew Stanton handed to RB Jehuu Caulcrick, who promptly fumbled the ball. Indiana scored two plays later. Halftime: 30-7. John L Smith: what did you gain by running the ball? Why not have Stanton kneel down. TERRIBLE COACHING.

Other problems in the Spartans' first half comedy of errors:

1. 8 penalties for 85 yards.
2. Defensive backs Demond Williams and Kellen Davis-Clark continuing to play 10 yards off wide receivers and fail to turn around and look for the ball.
3. The continued inability of Spartan coaches to call a play for QB Drew Stanton to throw the ball more than a five yard out pattern.
4. Spartans wide receivers continuing to make mistakes costing drives. This includes a dropped pass and short routes
5. QB Drew Stanton running an option sweep to the weak side of an unbalanced line on fourth down with MSU trailing, 17-7.
6. Continued failed blitzes called by Spartan defensive coordinator Chris Smeland, leaving Spartan defensive backs on an island and unable to break up passes. The one blitz that led to a QB sack was a miracle and is the exception to the rule, and the other five failed blitzes in the first half.

Game Day: Indy 24, MSU 23

(2006 Oct 26)--From the MSU perspective, wow -- it will be amazing to see if MSU can keep on the upswing from the Windy City Miracle. The ES doubts it; what you saw was the last gasp of breath from a coach whose job is dying. There was a complete lack of discussion of the impact of the coaches on last week's miraculous win: it was all the players.... for more, link here.

Stanton Big Ten POW; Purdue kickoff at 3:30 pm

(2006 Oct 24)--The Purdue game has been scheduled for a 3:30 pm start and will be broadcast on ESPNU. The ES is geeked, 'cause he will be in Los Angeles and can easily catch the game on west coast time. Also, quarterback Drew Stanton was named Big Ten Offensive Player of the week for leading MSU in the Windy City Miracle over Northwestern. Stanton completed 73 percent of his passes (27-of-37) for 294 yards and two scoring strikes while adding a rushing touchdown. It is the fifth time the senior has been so honored.

JLS Press Conference; MSU Injury Notes

(2006 Oct 24)--Comments from JLS in his press conference on Monday, beginning with injuries: "Matt Trannon did run last night, possibility he comes back. There are a lot of guys banged. Pete [Clifford], Jesse [Miller] should be okay, they are banged. Nemo [Nehemiah Warrick] couldn't go. He ran some last night, he should come back. He twisted his knee in practice, couldn't run on Saturday. Jehuu Caulcrick (foot) will be fine and will practice on Tuesday. Drew Stanton was fine today - his left hand hit the cement [on the out of bounds hit] but he is fine.

"Halftime in Northwestern was very vocal, full of energy. There was great belief... There is a lot of positive in the lockerroom right now. We are believing in each other."

When JLS was asked if the game saved his season, he said "we have a game this week. There was a lot of positive. Hopefully we can build on it..."

On reports that the players didn't see the scoreboard during the comeback: "Learn to play without the scoreboard. It will take care of itself. We try to teach them that."

On the first half vs NW: "why don't we talk about the future? they (NW) executed well."

MSU 5-pt fave at Indy

(2006 Oct 23)--After witnessing the Windy City Miracle, the oddsmakers are picking MSU as a 5-point fave at Indiana on Saturday. Michigan is favored by 32 at home over Nwestern, which will likely tank the rest of the season after Saturday's disaster to MSU. Wisky is favored by 22 vs Illinois, JoePa by 4.5 at Purdue, Ohio State by 27.5 over Minny, and Iowa by 17 at home over N. Illinois. Will have Grade the Gridders up sometime this afternoon to evening...

Northwestern Gridder GPA: Swenson earns straight 4.0; team earns 2.80

(2006 Oct 28)--With over 300 votes in, here are the grades from the Windy City Miracle vs Northwestern. Brett Swenson, the team's FG kicker, earned the first straight 4.0 this week, he hit two FGs including the game winner. QB Drew Stanton, who led the team's comeback despite being banged up and injured during the game, earned a 3.55. As a whole, the team graded out to a C+ with a 2.80 GPA overall. For all grades, link here.

MSU pulls off greatest comeback in history of football with 41-38 win over Northwestern

Click on image below - check these guys out with their "Fire John L" shirts. They left when MSU was down 38-3.

(2006 Oct 22)--I still can't believe what I saw yesterday. The Spartan football program had reached the absoloute bottom by the 10 minute mark of the third quarter, down 38-3 to Northwestern. The ES with Spartan fans were cursing out JLS and the MSU team for playing like a high school girl's powder puff squad. Then, it happened. The most stunning event I've ever witnessed.

MSU pulled off the greatest comeback in the history of football, scoring the final 38 points and saving JLS' job for another week. No team has ever before come back from down 35 points to win. But, now MSU has. Drew Stanton's first TD pass in five games, an 18-yarder to Jehuu Caulcrick, cut the lead to 38-10 and started a rally which included a blocked punt returned for TD, a Stanton TD run and another beautiful roll out and TD strike in the corner of the endzone to TJ Williams. Stanton played his best game since the win at Pitt, finishing with 37 yards rushing and 27-of-37 for 294 yards. Spartan receivers starting catching the ball after dropping several passes in the first half.

But, it was the Spartan defense which was key to the comback. The defense shut down the Wildcats in the second half; NW running back Tyrell Suton had a 67yard run, but the drive was stalled on an MSU interception. Other NW drives after the Spartans began their rally were 3 plays-2 yards (punt), 3 plays-7 yards (punt blocked), 3 plays-0 yards (punt), 3 plays-8 yards (punt), 1 play-0 yards (int). The MSU defense deserves credit for giving the offense an opportunity to win.

(Brett Swenson winning FG below. Click to enlarge)

Said NW coach Pat Fitzgerald, "this hurts very bad." You have to wonder what caused the turnaround and for MSU to finally play with passion and pride. The first half was the WORST demonstration of MSU football in its history... but the second half the team finally dug deep and played with pride.

Does this let JLS off the hook? ABSOLUTELY NOT. JLS had to win this game. Why MSU had to spot NW 38 points before they rallied and found their pride is beyond me. That really isn't a recommended way to beat a team. The Spartans just beat the worst team in the Big Ten, not OSU or Michigan... so, they still have their work cut out. If MSU plays like it did yesterday, they won't win another game. Congrats to the tam and JLS on an amazing comeback, but JLS still should be axed.

Ohio State Gridder GPA: Hoyer wins with a 2.92 GPA. Team Lowest Ever 1.12

(2006 Oct 19)--With 289 votes in, here are the grades from the implosion vs Ohio State. Brian Hoyer, the team's backup quarterback who led the Spartans to their only TD, earned the highest grade with a 2.92 GPA. In all, more than half the team received failing grades of under 1.0. Link here for full grades

GameDay: ES Predicts JLS to choke to Nwestern, 31-27

(2006 Oct 19)--Early in the summer, the ES predicted that Northwestern was going to beat Michigan State. Let's stick with that -- until JLS proves me wrong, the ES says Mr. Smith and his Spartoonies take a nose dive on Saturday. Northwestern is looking for an opportunity to get a W, and this may be their last chance. It is homecoming for the Wildcats. And, the ES has traveled to Chicago the last two times only to watch MSU lose as favorites. This will likely be a third, and will even wake up those few remaining Smith-backers to tell him to hit the road. Link here for full Game Day, scouting, two deep, predictions, etc.

Davis, Andino Charged in 54-B District Court

(2006 Oct 18)--Spartan starting tight end Kellen Davis has been charged with aggravated assault, and TE backup Eric Andino charged with assault and battery. The county prosecutor brought the charges to East Lansing's 54-B District Court stemming from an incident at the Capstone Commons apartments in East Lansing on Oct. 6. According the the Lansing State Journal, the players are scheduled to meet the judge on Nov. 1. They have been suspended indefinitely by coach John L Smith. The Spartans really needed Davis, and it has hurt as Dwayne Holmes has missed a pair of wide-open passes the last two games that have stalled drives. Bummer, and it doesn't help for JLS. But, that's coach Smith's problem, and he is being paid well to fix it. Move on.

JLS: "We are starting to learn how to practice"; Injuries hurt MSU, Jones kicked off team

(2006 Oct 16)--You have to wonder what John L Smith has been doing in practice all year. JLS said in his press conference today, "We are starting to learn how to practice. Our blackshirts are realizeing they need togive our starters full speed in practice. They realize that. It helps." OK - so it took seven weeks to get a full effort in practice. Sorry, but that is PATHETIC. And how much are you being paid??? That is YOUR JOB.

JLS also mentioned that the team has plenty to play for in the next five games, that "the next five will be nothing like the last two we saw." He said Nwestern is solid and have a scheme where MSU "has to be right mentally. They will test you."

The Spartans are as banged up as you've ever seen, but JLS also announced that defensive lineman Bobby Jones has been kicked off the team -- yet another loss! What is going on??? Here's the injury report:

Drew Stanton (stiff) - probable
Ryan Allison (shoulder) - probable
Rob Tabatchnik (knee) - out
Bobby Jones (dismissed) - out
Mike Gytvai (leg) - questionable
Matt Trannon (hamstring) - doubtful
Clif Ryan (calf) - probable
David Herron - probable
Greg Cooper (concussion) - doubtful

MSU Favored by TD at Northwestern

(2006 Oct 15)--MSU is a 6 1/2 pt early fave at Northwestern in Chicago this weekend. Amazingly, the folks in Vegas haven't been paying enough attention to the meltdown in East Lansing. The ES has tickets, and will be there with plenty of Fire JLS signage to watch the continued collapse. Other odds: Ohio State by 32 at home over Indy, scUM by 15 at home over Iowa, Wisky by 4 1/2 at Purdue. The Illinois-JoePa game is not listed due to injuries to Morrelli and Smith, the pair of JoePa QBs. There is no line for Minny vs. D-1AA North Dakota State.

FIRE JOHN L SMITH after worst showing in years, 38-7 loss to Ohio State

(2006 Oct 14)--John L Smith, if he had any dignity, should resign. Tomorrow. Ron Mason has some explaining to do if he is to keep JLS around. The Spartans (3-4/0-3) are now officially the WORST team in the Big Ten after yet another uninspiring, pathetic effort in Spartan Stadium today. The Spartans had just 161 yards of total offense, and the seven points were the lowest scored at home since Bobby Williams next-to-last game in 2002, a 28-7 loss to Minnesota. It is time for this clown of a coach to go back home to his ranch in Idaho and leave us alone. Goodbye.

MSU spotted Ohio State 10 points in the first quarter and gave up. Game over. MSU had three quarters left, but at that point they had mailed it in. From the second quarter on, there was no more fight left in the Spartans. They are an embarrassment and a laughing stock. Sure, OSU is #1, but that should be a reason to fight, to show your pride... and not give up. MSU gave up today. This team has no heart, has no more pride. And, it is embarassing... because it shows.

The worst part, is the coaches have no answer for improvement. This team, is getting worse by the quarter, by the game, and by the year.

Drew Stanton should be benched for the remainder of the season. After going 15 quarters without aTD, he was outshined again today by his backup, Brian Hoyer. Stanton was 8-of-16 for just 51 yards, an INT, and ran for -9 yards. But, more than that, he looked LOST. Caulcrick had just 45 yards on 15 carries (3.0 avg). And, the defense could NOT STOP Ohio State. And, kicking to Ted Ginn was stupid -- he only returned one punt back for a TD today.

It is time to cut our losses. JLS is hurting this program more than he is helping it. Ticket sales will surely plummet next year: who wants to buy tickets to watch this crap? We suck. It is time to get some enthusiasm, to GET SOMEONE WITH A SENSE OF OWNERSHIP AND KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING.

JLS is an idiot. Mr. Mason, if you don't do anything now, the Spartan Nation will. We are holding YOU accountable for your actions. You hired him, you fire him. The $4.3 million problem is your problem. You find a solution. Just get that cowboy out of town. He is an embarassment.

scUM Gridder GPA: Fields wins with a 3.25 GPA. Team GPA falls again, to 1.50

(2006 Oct 13)--With 245 votes in, here are the grades from the suicide at Michigan -- YOU VOTED THESE GRADES. The grades are based on MSU's grading scale (A=4.0, A-=3.5, etc.). Link here for all GPAs.

Brandon Fields, the punter, is the only Spartan to get above a 3.0, with a 3.25. Only two other players managed above a 2.0: Drew Stanton (2.13) and Jehuu Caulcrick (2.09). That's pathetic. The coaching staff got another F, with a 0.45. As a whole, the team graded out to a C-/D with a 1.50 GPA overall.The public is voting with what they see: a failing team.

Wash Post Columnist Gets Wish: Some Ink on ES Blog

(2006 Oct 13)--Dan Steinberg, sports columnist/blogger for the Washington Post, is looking for some ink from the ES (link here). Steinberg recently interviewed Spartan hoopster phenom Mo Pete about the troubles with JLS... Said Mo Pete: "I hope those guys get it turned around, but in football and in sports, when you're not winning, they definitely come down on the coach." Hey Dan, Mo: while your mixing MSU hoops and football, can you ask Tom Izzo to take over the coaching reigns of the Spartan football team? Thanks.

Game Day: OSU 35, MSU 16

(2006 Oct 12)--This is an easy one. ES predicted last week that the downtrodden Spartans would lose 38-17 (21 pt margin); they lost 31-13 (18 pt). For this week, let's just look at the results of how OSU has performed this year.... for stats, injuries, predictions, scenarios, two deep and more... go to game day.

Four FB Players Investigated for Beating

(2006 Oct 11)--[Hey, remember to Grade the Gridders performance vs scUM]. This morning, the Lansing State Journal reports that four MSU gridders are being investigated for beating up a pair of MSU students last Friday night. According to reports received by the ES, two of the players include TEs Kellen Davis and Eric Andino, and they have been suspended indefinitely. According to the paper, JLS has called the parents of the kids beaten up. A report is being provided to Ingham County Prosecutor to bring charges. More to come, stay tuned... Boy, is this not eerily like the downfall of Bobby Williams? It's a death spiral for the ole cowboy, and perfect timing for the #1 team coming into town.

MSU Nabs OL Recruit

(2006 Oct 11)--The Spartans have received a verbal commitment from OL Mark Wetterer of Cincinnati, Ohio. Wetterer (6-5, 295-lbs) chose MSU over Ohio State, Clemson, Louisville, West Virginia, Maryland, and Cincy. He runs a 5.3-40. Get this: it was MSU's agriculture program that was the deciding factor. Hey, gooooo MSU Aggies! Wetterer is considered a 3-star recruit by Rivals.com, the 57th best OL in the nation, and the 28th best recruit overall in Ohio. He's a great pickup for the Big Green.

Injury Report; JLS "Does Not Believe In Challenging Replays"

(2006 Oct 9)-- First off, here is the injury report: WR Matt Trannon could not practice; he is at least a week away. DL Clif Ryan could not practice last night; but, he should be ok. A lot of his swelling is out of his leg.
TEs Kellen Davis and Eric Andino are not with the football team; suspended indefinitely. RB Javon Ringer will not have surgery now. After 6-8 weeks of healing, the doctors will reevaluate. The rest are "bumps and bruises."

JLS did admit that his assistant coaches would likely have to win six games or they'd be let go. When asked, he responded, "I believe that is the case" and that "We have to show up." They should be fired, anyways, coach. They're incompetent.

The most telling thing in today's press conference are some coaching errors JLS admitted to, but he doesn't realize they are errors. Yet another reason to fire him. 1 on the kick return by Demond Williams to open the game, his fellow teammates should have communicated to Demond to stay in the end zone (lack of coaching communication skills). 2) on the punt fair catch by Williams on th 4 yard line, Williams did the "right thing" by drifted back and should have had better awareness (lack of coaching field awareness); and, 3) JLS "does not believe in challenging replays." You heard that right, JLS stated he does "not believe its [his] job to challenge replays. The system should do it."

JLS did not challenge the scUM TD early in the first quarter because he thought the replay system would overturn it. So instead of asking for a replay, the game continued. That is just dumb. All the other coaches will take advantage of the rules, but not JLS... hey coach, the system allows you to challenge! Wake up!!

MSU 15-point dogs to Buckeyes

(2006 Oct 9)--The Spartans are 15 point underdogs at home to #1 Ohio State on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 pm. scUM is 7 point favorites at JoePa, Purdue is favored by 11 at Nwestern, Wisconsin is a 10.5 home fave over Minny, Iowa is favored by 18.5 at Indiana, Illinois is favored by 7 at home over Ohio.

FIRE JOHN L SMITH after 31-13 loss to scuM

(2006 Oct 7)--The ES encourages you to print out the sign and bring to Spartan Stadium next week to help encourage JLS to be fired. Link here for the pdf. You want t-shirst, mugs and the like? Link. What more do you want - after today you know we will lose against Ohio State. It is written. Ron Mason blew this hire, and now we all know it.

At least it didn't hurt as much as a last second loss. Spartan fans who support John L, I ask: why keep the clown? For what, so we can watch us get our butt kicked more? Maybe lose to Northwestern in the last minutes? JLS is incapable of winning, the season is lost, lets just cash in the chips we have. The ES says: FIRE THE WHOLE STAFF.

What more do you need? I though the verbal expletive exchange between JLS and special teams coach Ben Sirmans was intersting early, when Williams got tackled on the nine-yd line. And, by the way, when JLS jumped on board everyone was talking about how great of a special teams coach he was. He SUCKS at special teams, especially. We have done NOTHING on returns and have rarely blocked a kick since his arrival. Thanks, JLS.

FIRE JOHN L SMITH.

MSU Sucks Eggs, Falls 31-13 to scUM

(2006 Oct 7)--As much criticism as the ES gets, he must be a prophet, with the final 31-13 score pretty damn close to his 38-17 prediction. First off: kudos to scUM, they're as good as the ES has seen since their title tilt in 96/97.

Before I get into the game, it is important to bring this up: with the same players over the past four years, it is amazing to see how scUM and ND have improved, but MSU is getting worse. I wonder why? Coaching, folks. Coaching.

Problems today: The Spartans committed too many stupid penalties at the worst times (11 for 87 yards), and the coaches didn't take advantage of the slim chances they had. #1 - JLS not going for it on the 20 yard line vs Michgian in the second quarter; but, then going for it on the 35 in the middle of the third quarter. JLS blew this one, a