Road Warriors

#43 California – 21

#11 Michigan – 14

Members of the Cal offense look on following a 25-yard pass to TE Anthony Miller

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- A six-month TNS hiatus wasn't the only drought that ended in dramatic fashion Friday night. Following a 21-14 victory over #11 Michigan, #43 California will be making their first ever appearance in the Sweet Sixteen.

Fresh off their dismantling of Clemson in Death Valley, the Golden Bears faced an even B1Gger challenge at the Big House. Thanks in part to two Michigan turnovers in the final minutes, they were up to the task.

After throwing a pick with 1:30 remaining in the game, down 7, Michigan was able to use its timeouts and narrowly force Cal into a 3-and-out. Red's attempts to fair catch the ensuing punt - the only one the entire game - were apparently too late, and returner Darryl Stonum lost the ball when he was drilled immediately by Cal's Dash Oliver. The Bears quickly recovered the fumble, and Michigan's hopes of advancing were dashed.

Despite the untimely turnovers, Denard Robinson and the Wolverines were able to move the ball methodically through the air on all of their possessions, with Robinson finishing 16 for 25 passing with 228 yards and 2 touchdowns.

However, Michigan also came up empty in a pivotal spot at the end of the first half, when they elected to go for it on 4th and goal from the 5 and failed. Cal foolishly attempted to tack on points in the final 20 seconds of the half, and QB Brock Mansion was abruptly picked off by MLB Kenny Demens. That gave Michigan time for a 44-yard field goal attempt, but the kick missed wide right and the teams showered off during halftime with the score tied 7-7.

Cal took the lead on a 9-yard TD run by Mansion in the third quarter, and again on a 2-yard TD run by HB Isi Sofele in the fourth.

The Bears will take their road tour to Jordan-Hare Stadium next to face #21 Auburn in the Sweet Sixteen.

Meanwhile, Blue will wrap up his second round tonight when he faces Red in the battle of the Carolinas. #TNS

Stats!

California
13 first downs
253 total yards
QB Brock Mansion – 13/20, 178 yards, INT
HB Isi Sofele – 13 rushes, 62 yards, 2 TDs; 3 receptions, 39 yards
SS Sean Cattouse – INT
CB Dash Oliver – FF
CB Isaac Lapite – FR

Michigan
10 first downs
235 total yards
QB Denard Robinson – 16/25, 228 yards, 2 TDs, INT

You Didn't Think We Were Finished, Did You?

After an inspiring weekend of college football, the colors of TNS are poised to renew its attempt to settle the national champion of the 2011-2012 season.  Just four games remain in the second round.  Despite this recent blow, the EA servers for the 2012 game are alive and kicking for now.

#1 Alabama v. #33 Florida 
 #9 South Carolina v. #41 UNC 
 #13 Michigan State v. #20 Nebraska 
 #11 Michigan v. #43 Cal

In the immortal words of David Chappelle, pick up your sticks.

Comedy Central

So This Happened

Let's Go, Mom's Here

Remaining Second Round Match-Ups:

#1 Alabama v. #33 Florida 
 #9 South Carolina v. #41 UNC 
 #13 Michigan State v. #20 Nebraska 
 #2 Oregon v. #31. Notre Dame 
 #3 Stanford v. #35 Miami (FL)
 #11 Michigan v. #43 Cal

WVU 'Neers Goal

#21 West Virginia – 24
#12 TCU – 13

FORT WORTH, Texas -- Jets ELITE QB Geno Smith threw for three first-half touchdowns as #21 West Virginia jumped in front of #12 TCU and hung on to advance to the Sweet 16.


SS Tekerrein Cuba 

The Horned Frogs opened the game with a 3-and-out and Smith promptly found WR Stedman Bailey for a 49 yard touchdown strike. TCU fumbled the ensuing kickoff but was able to avoid further damage as Tyler, Texas' Tekerrein Cuba (who's also up for the annual TNS Best Name Award) intercepted Smith in the endzone.

K Ross Evans converted the turnover into points with his first field goal of the day from 29 yards out.

Smith went back to work before halftime finding RB Shawne Alston out of the backfield for a 29 yard TD with 1:11 remaining. But he wasn't done yet as the 'Neers defense forced another 3-and-out, putting the ball back in Smith's hands with 31 seconds to play. He struck to Stedman again, this time for 45 yards putting WVU ahead 21-3 at the half.

Getting the ball to start the 2nd half it appeared WVU changed their strategy with a steady dose of running plays, but an opportunistic TCU defense was able to force another turnover. QB Casey Pachall was able to get the Horned Frogs in the end zone, finding WR Josh Boyce for a 13 yard TD.

TCU forced a punt on the next possession, but was only able to turn it into 3 points as Evans tacked on a 37 yard field goal.

WVU kicker Tyler Betancourt answered with a 48 yarder of his own, before TCU fumbled the ensuing kickoff ending any hope of a comeback.

The Horned Frogs offense finished 0-7 on the day on 3rd downs, yet were able to rack up 8 first downs. WVU managed just 3, despite 24 points to show for it.

The Mountaineers will move on to face #5 Boise State next round.

Stats:
West Virginia
QB Geno Smith – 6 of 11, 143 yards, 3 TD, INT
RB Shawne Alston – 10 carries, 51 yards, 1 rec, 39 yards, TD
WR Stedman Bailey – 3 rec, 89 yards, 2 TD
DE Julian Miller – 4 tackles, 3 sacks, fumble rec
K Tyler Betancourt – 48 yd FG

TCU
QB Casey Pachall – 7 of 20, 102 yards, TD
RB Ed Wesley – 13 carries, 64 yards
WR Josh Boyce – 3 rec, 59 yards, TD
SS Tekerrein Cuba – 4 tackles, INT
K Ross Evans – 2/2 FG (32 yd long)

Busted

The use of an active college football player's name contradicts the NCAA's statements in the Ed O'Bannon case.

I guess the EA janitors forgot to change that one when they were removing any traces of a players 'likeness' (except for height, weight, skin color, hometown, knee braces, uniform number, wristband placement facemask style, etc.) before releasing the game.

EA Sports used Tim Tebow's name in a playcall in its NCAA Football 10 game, which was released in July 2009, prior to Tebow's senior season at Florida.

Illegal Turf, Surviving Smurf

#37 Washington – 7
#5 Boise State – 14

Washington QB Keith Price watches the ball fly out of HB Chis Polk's grasp in the third quarter

BOISE, Idaho -- Blue and Green have exhausted their quota of second round matchups, and they may not see each other again for a while.

With Blue nearly getting ousted from the Southleft region thanks largely to Green, he may consider himself fortunate.

#5 Boise State, meanwhile, is still searching for their form following a close victory over #37 Washington. They were held in check for the second game in a row by a slow pace and stingy Husky defense.

"Nothing came e_z," noted Boise running back Doug Martin.

The Broncos got on the scoreboard first, but not without a sincere Red impersonation on their opening drive, which ended early in the second quarter on a 1-yard touchdown run by Martin.

Washington punted on their first drive, but later converted an Adam Long interception into points when QB Keith Price found WR Jermaine Kearse for a 10-yard score in the final seconds of the first half.

Starting with the ball in the second half, the Huskies quickly turned in the longest play of the game - a 33-yard catch and run by TE Chris Izbicki. However, two snaps later, running back Chris Polk fumbled in Bronco territory, and Boise State recovered. The game's only fumble turned out to be its most pivotal play, stealing all momentum from a young but poised Washington team.

On the ensuing drive, another 1-yard score from Doug Martin on 4th and goal put the Blue man group ahead for good. Boise State finished the game 3 for 3 on fourth down.

Washington advanced into the red zone on their next possession, but turned it over on downs when Price overthrew his receiver in the Boise end zone.

Leading 14-7 late in the fourth quarter, Boise State still had anxious moments to overcome. Needing one first down to end the game, Kellen Moore was sacked at his own 2-yard line while waiting for Martin to get free on a screen play. Two plays later, they were able to punt without incident, though Washington was left with a short field for their attempt to tie the game.

Continuing a trend of game-clinching interceptions, FS Travis Stanaway picked off Price on the second play of the final Husky drive, and Boise exhaled.

Following an ELITE performance from #PapaGeno, #21 West Virginia will continue their crusade on the Blue turf in the sweet sixteen.

Boise State and Washington will meet again in Seattle to open the 2013 season.

Stats:
Boise State
105 total yards
3/3 on fourth down
HB Doug Martin – 20 rushes, 79 yards, 2 TDs
MLB Byron Hout – FF
DE Shea McClelin – FR
FS Travis Stanaway – INT

Washington
1/2 on fourth down
FS Adam Long – INT

Green Snaps 7-Game Skid, KSU Earns Sweet 16 Berth

#55 Northern Illinois – 7
#23 Kansas State – 14

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- 2007 TNS Champion Kansas State continued its virtual postseason success in the hands of Green, who finally broke through a seven game losing streak with a hard fought victory over underdog Northern Illinois.

Kansas State was able to control the line of scrimmage for most of the game, led by RB Bryce Brown, who earned player of the game honors with his 145 yard, two touchdown performance.  Despite having superior talent, Green could not help but to keep things interesting.  Collin Klein struggled throughout, throwing three interceptions that kept the upset-minded Huskies in the ballgame.

With the score tied at 7 as the third quarter came to a close, Green and the Kansas State offense refused to put the ball in the air, instead pounding away a long drive on the ground.  Brown continually broke tackles, converted multiple third downs, and eventually scored on a two-yard touchdown run with forty-five seconds remaining in the game.

Blue received the ensuing kick off trailing only by seven, but faced the difficult task driving the field 65-plus yards with just forty seconds remaining with a single timeout.  The Wildcat defense sealed up a Sweet 16 berth on the first play, as NIU QB and future Mr. Irrelevant Chandler Harnish threw an interception to K-State cornerback Charles Melton.  A Collin Klein knee ended Green's frustrating losing streak, drawing his overall record in the 2012 tournament to 7-10.

Kansas State now awaits the winner of an all-Orange round of 32 game between #58 Purdue and #39 BYU, both of whom were upset winners in the first round over Green and Blue, respectfully.  Should Purdue advance, Green will be seeking revenge against a Boilermaker squad that dashed the Final Four hopes of LSU.

Stats:
Kansas State
QB Collin Klein – 4/14 for 56 yards, 3 INTs
RB Bryce Brown – 27 rushes for 145 yards, 2 TDs; 1 reception for 10 yards
Zimmerman/Melton – INT
8/10 on third down, 1/1 on fourth down
43 offensive plays (29 rushes, 14 passes)

Northern Illinois
2 turnovers, 75 total yards, 26 offensive plays
Schiller/Butler/Ware – INT each

#55 Northern Illinois vs. #23 Kansas State, Game Film

The Lead

We Are Only 2.5 Tournaments Away:

DualShock 4

'Noles Plant Their Spear In The Sweet 16

#46 NC State – 7

#14 Florida State – 20

Florida State running back Chris Thompson shakes off a defender

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The second round began in the same fashion as the first round ended - with a Florida State victory.

Three interceptions and another strong performance from FSU HB Chris Thompson were too much for the Wolfpack, as they fell 20-7.

Florida State was content to hand the ball off for most of the game to their Junior running back, who finished with 150 total yards and a touchdown.

NC State had a promising start, burning most of the first quarter and converting three first downs on their way into Seminole territory. But interceptions on consecutive NC State snaps were quickly converted into points on a 65-yard TD strike from FSU QB EJ Manuel to WR Kenny Shaw, and a 25-yard TD rush by Thompson, respectively.

The Wolfpack got on the board with a 1-yard TD rush by HB Mustafa Greene in the final seconds of the first half. Greene was held to 9 yards on 8 carries.

Following a Florida State field goal, NCSU kicker Chris Hawthorne barely missed on a 45-yard attempt that would have made it a one-possession game late in the third quarter. ROLB Nigel Bradham secured the win for the Seminoles with an interception on NC State's final possession.

Florida State will now prepare for a strong Orange opponent in the Sweet Sixteen.

Stats:

Florida State

HB Chris Thompson – 18 rushes, 120 yards, TD; 2 receptions, 30 yards

FS Nick Moody, ROLB Nigel Bradham, CB Greg Reid – INT each

Some Second Round Info To Wet Your Whistle

A competitive opening round has yielded a very symmetrical slate of upcoming games. Each color will host every other color at least once.

More balance than at a gymnastics competition.

Three Blue vs. Orange games - Blue hosts two
Three Red vs. Blue games - Red hosts two
Two Green vs. Orange games - each hosts one
Two Blue vs. Green games - each hosts one
Two Orange vs. Red games - each hosts one
Two Green vs. Red games - each hosts one
Two Orange vs. Orange games

Some matchups that might be worth keeping anion*:

#33 Florida at #1 Alabama
The Crimson Tide face a big challenge early, as Florida looks to avenge its recent struggles against college football's unbeatables.

#27 Auburn at #6 Oklahoma State
Red gets his second look at Auburn after the Cowboys narrowly defeated UCLA in the first round.

#25 Texas at #8 Arkansas
As Green put it, Arkansas is "weirdly" good in the game. I'm so excited, it's weird.

#41 North Carolina at #9 South Carolina
A riveting gift from the seeding gods. Surprisingly, these teams have met only once since 1991.

#21 West Virginia at #12 TCU
TCU, in search of their first Sweet Sixteen, is finally a major threat in the game. Can they get past future NFL legend Geno Smith and the Mountaineers?

#20 Nebraska at #13 Michigan State
After Orange nearly took down the Spartans in round one, he leads Nebraska into East Lansing for this B1G game.

#46 NC State at #14 Florida State
NC State should be good and ready for this conference matchup after spending many hours on the field in round one.

#17 Virginia Tech at #16 USC
Another marquee game in a region filled to the brim with them.

TNS football is imminent.

*Chemistry joke. A little something for the ladies.

The Green Fields Of The Mind

January 28th, 2009

Have we really only finished two?

Green, me and you need to finish the original, pioneering Thursday Night Sensationalizationalism bracket.

The next year, Blue captained the Oregon Ducks to a special dress championship celebration at The Pressroom.

Following that, I believe I took an unheralded Alabama team led by Brody Croyle to the title, and while I received many compliments and accolades, I am still awaiting my dinner.

The next installment saw great process, as Blue indicated that there are only 5 teams remaining, and I know much of the college football world is still on the edge of their collective seats in anticipation for the West Virginia - Ohio State showdown. That can easily be finished in much the same fashion as the previous season.

Last year was probably our worst effort, as not even a single game was started. There was much intrigue around the league as a rookie gamer had received his charter and would be making his first appearance, but alas, it was not to be. Much, if not absolutely all, of the blame for that debacle can be placed squarely on these shoulders, which still carry that burden to this day. I won't try to justify anything with excuses, other than to say that it was not a good situation. But, the draft was completed, and play can resume, or should I say begin, at any time.

Some of us are even in the midst of a tournament at this very moment, and while it is a noble effort which I have every intention of finishing, and winning, I do not think it should take precedence over any post-season events. The good thing is that we already have completed the first round, which may not sound like a lot, but means that we are more than half-way done.

The beauty is that none of these tournaments ever really end. They live on long after the final seconds tick off the clock. One man reveling in the glory of victory, with the admiration of his peers, and his name etched permanently in the annals of history; another writhing in the agony of defeat, left to wonder what could have been.

The games replay in our minds during the short and dark days of winter, sleepless nights turning to the blooms of spring. The high sun of summer brings with it an unbridled enthusiasm, crescendoing to the pageantry of a new season. But like the autumn leaves, that hope can just as quickly fall to the ground, crashing like the cymbals of the great bands that make Saturday's feel so alive. It leaves us as quickly as it arrived, the turning of the solstice bringing with it shorter days. But as darkness continues to encroach, we stand firmly of the light of knowledge that the final game on the gridiron does not signal an end, but rather a new beginning.

Numbers will be crunched, figures tabulated, labs completed, and brackets drawn. Each valiant warrior will select his weapons for which to do battle with in this most noble of endeavors. The purest form of sport, this model, built on the foundations of integrity, gives way for the crowning of a true champion, and lets mere men become legends.

The time is upon us, so I say unto you, in the words of my two little bruthas, "You might as well have the band bring out the popcorn, baby!"

Pick up your sticks . . . 

Red

First Round Revelations

Check out how everyone did in the first round. Or don't. Either way's good.

Orange
11-5 overall, Home: 7-1, Away: 4-4
20.9 PF, 14.6 PA, +6.3

vs. Blue: 4-1 (2-1 at home)
vs. Green: 5-1 (3-0 at home)
vs. Red: 2-3 (2-0 at home)

Blue
8-8 overall, Home: 4-3, Away: 4-5
15.2 PF, 12.7 PA, +2.5

vs. Green: 3-2 (2-1 at home)
vs. Orange: 1-4 (0-2 at home)
vs. Red: 4-2 (2-0 at home)

Red
7-9 overall, Home: 6-3, Away: 1-6
11.9 PF, 13.9 PA, -2.0

vs. Blue: 2-4 (2-2 at home)
vs. Green: 2-3 (1-1 at home)
vs. Orange: 3-2 (3-0 at home)

Green
6-10 overall, Home: 4-4, Away: 2-6
12.5 PF, 19.2 PA, -6.7

vs. Blue: 2-3 (1-1 at home)
vs. Orange: 1-5 (1-2 at home)
vs. Red: 3-2 (2-1 at home)

A Near-Choke At Doak

#51 Northwestern – 10
#14 Florida State – 17

QB Dan Persa walks back to the bench after 
throwing an interception on his team's final possession

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- It seemed all but over when HB Chris Thompson put Florida State up 17-3 with a little over three minutes left. Instead, the Seminoles had to hold on for dear life.

Northwestern drove swiftly, scored a crucial touchdown, and recovered an onside kick, but Florida State held on for a 17-10 victory to wrap up first round play.

Red was completely unrecognizable from the outset, employing a no-huddle offense, and throwing on every snap. That may sound like an exaggeration, but to be clear – Northwestern did not hand the ball off a single time the entire game.

“That was how I wanted to go down with them,” Red said afterwards.

Florida State struck first, narrowly converting four third downs on their first possession, and scoring on an 8-yard touchdown pass from QB E.J. Manuel to WR Willie Haulstead.

Northwestern seemed poised to get on the board in the final minute of the first half following a Manuel interception, but QB Dan Persa fumbled deep in Seminole territory to keep the halftime shower score at 7-0.

The teams opened the second half by trading field goals, including another 50-yarder for Blue.

In the fourth quarter, Chris Thompson took over, breaking a 50-yard run, and punching it in from 13 yards out on the next play. The score put the 'Noles up 14 with 3:27 remaining in the game.

Persa and the Wildcats quickly engineered a stunning drive that was capped by a 1-yard TD catch by future New England Patriot WR Jeremy Ebert. The drive included completions to four different receivers and took less than a minute.

The ensuing onside kick bounced off a Florida State knee, and was pounced on by Northwestern CB Mike Bolden, giving the offense a short field with plenty of time on the clock.

Then, on 2nd and 8 from the FSU 25, Persa was hit by an unblocked lineman as he threw, and CB Mike Harris was there to pick off the errant pass and stifle the Wildcat rally.

The Seminoles were able to kneel out the clock from there – by the slimmest of margins. The game ended with less than a second remaining on the play clock and Florida State facing a 4th down.

Blue lauded Red's effort in the loss.

“That might have been the best game [Red]'s had against me in a while,” he said. “The drive at the end was really impressive, and the onside kick was perfect.”

Despite his recent surge, Blue failed to surpass the .500 mark in the first round for the first time since 2006.

The 'Noles will host conference foe #46 NC State, as America's lesser-known tournament rolls on to the second round.

Stats:

Northwestern
QB Dan Persa – 15/27, 207 yards, TD, INT

Florida State
HB Chris Thompson – 25 rushes, 164 yards, TD

Tide Too Strong For La. Tech

#64 La. Tech – 7
#1 Alabama – 21

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Top-seeded Alabama opened TNS play with a slopy yet business-like performance in a 21-7 victory over Louisiana Tech. Trent Richardson eclipsed the century mark finishing the day with 106 yards and 2 TDs on 20 carries. A.J. McCarron went 6 of 7 through the air for 118 yards and a touchdown.

The Tide opened with an impressive 65 yard touchdown drive to start the game - each play a Richardson run, capped off by a 31 yard scamper.

La. Tech fumbled the ensuing kickoff – which would be a theme for them throughout the day – but Alabama failed to capitalize ending the drive with an unsuccessful fake field goal following a delay of game penalty.

On the following Bulldog possession Tarik Hakmi, who finished the day just 8 of 23 passing, was intercepted by Dequan Menzie. Richardson then busted loose for a 20-yard gain down to the 1 yard line, but again the Tide failed to convert the turnover into points this time turning the ball over on downs at the goal line. Alabama would get another shot at points before haltime but missed a field goal as time expired.

La. Tech promptly fumbled the kickoff to start the 2nd half and 'Bama finally made them pay. McCarron picked up 21 yards on a play-action pass before Richardson punched it in from 8 yards out to give the Tide a 14-0 lead thirty seconds into the quarter. They'd tack on 7 more before it was through following another Hakmi interception, this time by Will Lowry, who finished the day with 5 tackles and 2 forced fumbles as well. McCarron hit Marquis Maze for a 40-yard touchdown on the next play. Maze also had a 50-yard reception on the day.

The Bulldogs got on the board in the 4th with an Ahmad Paige 1-yard touchdown run.

The Tide will have to be much sharper to advance next round with #33 Florida waiting.

Stats:
Alabama
QB A.J. McCarron – 6 of 7, 118 yards, TD
RB Trent Richardson – 20 carries, 106 yards, 2 TD
WR Marquis Maze – 2 rec, 90 yards, TD
FS Will Lowry – 5 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, INT
CB Dequan Menzie – INT, fumble rec

Louisiana Tech
QB Tarik Hakmi – 8 of 23, 2 INTs
RB Lennon Creer – 3 fumbles

'Neers Handle Business, Advance To 2nd Round

#44 Georgia Tech – 7
#21 West Virginia – 17

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- West Virginia got points in all three phases of the game and was able to bottle up Georgia Tech's option attack on their way to a 17-7 opening round victory.

The Mountaineers took the opening kickoff and methodically marched down the field on a promising drive, but almost came away empty-handed as Georgia Tech's Rod Sweeting (and the game's self-proclaimed Best User Corner Orange) looked to have a sure interception in the endzone only to drop the pass and see the ball fall into the arms of WR Brad Starks.

The Yellow Jacket offense came out lifeless and quickly punted. WVU was able to tack on a 49-yard Tyler Bitancourt field goal to take a 10-0 lead before halftime.

With their offense still sputtering, GTU found a spark on the defensive side of the ball in the 3rd quarter on a Michael Peterson 72-yard non-user-controlled interception returned for touchdown. The defense would step up again in the fourth as LB Doug Rigg forced a fumbled that was recovered by DE Julian Miller giving the Yellow Jackets a chance to tie or take the lead. But the offensive woes contined as QB Tevin Washington was stripped by CB Pat Miller and LB Najee Goode returned it 64 yards for the game-sealing touchdown.

After taking the early lead, the Mountaineers tried to give Georgia Tech a dose of their own medecine, controlling the clock and playing keepaway to the tune of a five minute advantage in time of possession.

Georgia Tech finished the day just 1 of 6 on third down.

West Virginia moves on to play #12 TCU with the win.

Stats:
West Virgina
QB Geno Smith – 4 of 6, 31 yards, TD, INT
RB Shawne Alston – 15 carries, 61 yards
WR Brad Starks – 3 rec, 31 yards, TD
CB Pat Miller – FF, PBU, 3 tackles
LB Najee Goode – FR & TD, 2 TFL, sack
K Tyler Bitancourt – 49-yard FG

Georgia Tech
QB Tevin Washington – 3 of 9, 26 yards, fumble
CB Michael Peterson – INT & TD
LB Doug Rigg – FF, 3 tackles, TFL
DE Julian Miller – FR, 3 tackles

Orange Crushed

#43 California – 30

#22 Clemson – 8

Clemson HB Andre Ellington fumbles after a hard hit by Cal SS Sean Cattouse on the game's first play

CLEMSON, S.C. -- Blue, with one final chance to earn a first round win over Orange, saved his best for last.

Historically, Cal has been a TNS dud, suffering first-round exits in each of the two years they earned high seeds, and never advancing past the second round. On this occasion, they found the underdog role to their liking, cruising to a 30-8 rout of Clemson.

HB Isi Sofele scored two touchdowns, K Giorgio Tavecchio was 3/3 on field goals, and Cal's defense held QB Tajh Boyd and Clemson to 69 yards of offense. California QB Brock Mansion gave Blue his first 200-yard passing game of the tournament.

"Everybody contributed today," noted head coach Jeff Tedford. "It was a total team effort. It was like Total Recall."

Cal set the tone early, forcing and recovering a fumble on the first play from scrimmage. A field goal on the ensuing drive and a 12-yard touchdown run by Sofele gave Cal a 10-0 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

Despite receiving the ball to begin the first half, Clemson finished the half with -4 total yards and no first downs on three possessions.

The Golden Bears went up 20-0 when Keenan Allen ran it in from 44 yards on a WR screen to cap Cal's opening drive of the second half. Then, immediately following a Tajh Boyd interception, Isi Sofele scored on a 37-yard screen play to make it 27-0.

Clemson finally got it going on their next drive, picking up five first downs and punching it in on a 6-yard touchdown pass from Boyd to WR Bryce McNeal, but it was too little too late.

The Southright region breathes a small sigh of relief as Clemson is eliminated, and teams named the Tigers that play in stadiums named Death Valley finish the tournament at 0-2. Cal will travel to Ann Arbor to battle #11 Michigan next round.

Stats:

California

QB Brock Mansion – 11/21, 201 yards, 2 TD, INT

HB Isi Sofele – 18 rushes, 76 yards, TD; 4 catches, 69 yards, TD

DT Kendrick Payne – 2 sacks

Red Gets Cocky With South Carolina - Scores 28 Unanswered in Bitter Contest

#56 Texas Tech – 7
#9 South Carolina – 28

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- The South Carolina defense lived up to its billing harassing and frustrating the high-powered Texas Tech aerial attack in a 28-7 opening round victory.

Texas Tech finished with just 2 first downs on the day and 65 yards of offense - 43 of which came on an opening drive 4th down 43 yard TD pass. The Red Raiders went just 1 of 13 passing the rest of the way, finishing 3 of 17 on the day, and going 0 of 7 on 3rd down and 1 of 4 on 4th.

The game was tight going into the 4th, tied at 7, before Stephen Garcia punched in a 4th down TD sneak with 2:27 remaining. The Gamecocks would punch in twice more with the game seemingly out of reach - a 31 yard Marcus Lattimore TD run with 1:03 to play and a 21 yard fumble return for TD by Rodney Paulk - drawing the ire of Orange who didn't finish the round as well as he started. He's made it very clear that he has next round's matchup with Red, which also happens to be #1 Alabama vs. #33 Florida, highlighted in his dayplanner and does not intend to let up. #getchyapopcornready

Stats:
South Carolina
QB Stephen Garcia – 6 of 10, 98 yards
RB Marcus Lattimore – 20 carries, 88 yards, 2 TD
WR Alshon Jeffrey – 2 rec, 45 yards
DT Travian Robertson - 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles
LB Rodney Paulk - TFL, sack, fumble rec, TD

Texas Tech
QB Seth Doege - 3 of 17, 51 yards, TD
LB Brett Dewhurst - 5 tackles, 3 TFL, PBU

Ducks Stay Afloat

#63 Arkansas State – 7
#2 Oregon – 20

Oregon SS Eddie Pleasant smothers Ark St. TE Kenneth Rains on a fake punt

EUGENE, Oreg. -- Arkansas State gave Oregon all they could handle, but the Ducks are through to the next round after a tense 20-7 win.

The outcome was very much in doubt until the Red Wolves were stopped just shy of a critical first down on a 4th and 2 late in the fourth quarter.

Lamichael James was the lone bright spot for Oregon, rushing for 122 yards on 13 carries.

Oregon got off to a slow start, throwing an interception in ASU territory on their first possession.

On the ensuing drive, Arkansas State boldly called a fake punt on 4th and 2 from their own 30-yard line, but Oregon was ready, stopping TE Kenneth Rains for no gain following the direct snap.

The Ducks converted the turnover on downs into seven points on a 4-yard touchdown reception by HB Lamichael James. They added a field goal to take a 10-0 lead into the halftime showers.

It didn't take long for Arkansas State to get back in the game. On a play (somewhat) reminiscent of Joe Flacco to Jacoby Jones in this year's Divisional Round contest in Denver, WR Allen Muse somehow got behind the corner and safety for a 75-yard strike to cut the lead to 10-7. A 48-yard field goal on Oregon's next drive made it 13-7.

Arkansas State, who had been running deliberately and widdling down the clock the entire game, engineered a long drive on their next possession. They picked up three first downs and advanced to the Oregon 28, before being stopped just short on the aforementioned 4th and 2. Again, it was Kenneth Rains carrying the ball for the Red Wolves.

Lamichael James iced it for the Ducks with a short touchdown run in the final minute.

Arkansas State mounted a valiant effort, successfully playing keepaway for much of the game, and committing no turnovers. They also outgained Oregon 145-117 through the air.

"We had a good gameplan, and the players executed," said first year head coach Gus Malzahn. "We just came up a little short."

Oregon awaits #31 Notre Dame in the second round.

Stats:
Oregon
HB Lamichael James – 3 rushes, 122 yards, 2 total TDs

Arkansas State
DT Amos Draper – 2 sacks

Arkansas State Nearly Pulls Off The Impossible In Autzen

Thursday Night Wednesday

It's another exciting night full of Sensationalizationalism.  Keep abreast of Facebook, Twitter, Google Blogs, and Twitch TV so as not to miss a minute of the action.

In our opening game of the night, Red and Orange square off in their final match up in the First Round, as #56 Texas Tech visits #9 South Carolina.  With Red's resurgence success against Orange, Red will have to work hard to avoid an upset as the fast paced air-raid Texas Tech offense favors Orange's style of play.

In the night cap, Blue's Oregon squad is heavily favored against Arkansas State, an at-large selection and favorite among the #TNS selection committee.  Green will yet again seek to pull off the impossible and pull off the improbable #16 v. #1 upset.   This pacific coast kickoff will also be the second live broadcast in Thursday Night Sensationalizationalism history.

Although the First Round of 2012 TNS is wrapping up, the drama and intrigue is intensifying.  Tradition. Pageantry. Maternity.  #TNS

Stanford Unchallenged In Opener

#62 Temple – 0
#3 Stanford – 31

STANFORD, Calif. -- An Andrew Luck lead offense cruised in the first round, scoring an easy 31 points as Stanford was never challenged by the meager Temple Owls.  Andrew Luck was able to connect with 5 different receivers on his 8 of 12 passing performance, for 145 yards and a touchdown. His favorite target of the day was his TE Coby Fleener , who finished with three catches for 36 yards.   Stephan Taylor was equally impressive, rushing for 16 times for 97 yards and two touchdowns. The offense had a total of 244 yards of offense, and put the game out of reach after Luck hit a streaking Chris Owusu down the sidelines before halftime to go up 17-0.

The Cardinal defense only allowed 18 total yards of offense. The Cardinals forced three interceptions by Michael Thomas, Johnson Bademosi, and Chase Thomas.  The Temple Owls were unable to convert any of their seven third down, and were able only to get two first downs the entire game. #3 Stanford will play #35 Miami Hurricanes in the second round. Orange, who has locked up a Sweet Sixteen team in this section of the bracket, will have a hard choice picking between the best quarterback in the game and The U.

Orange finished the first round with only one loss to his brother Green, coming in the overtime battle between Michigan State and Toledo.

Stats:

Stanford
QB Andrew Luck – 8/12 for 145 yards, TD
RB Stephan Taylor – 16 carries for 97 yards, 2 TDs; 1 reception for 10 yards
Coby Fleener – 3 receptions for 36 yards
WR Chris Owusu – 1 receptions for 76 yards, TD (35 seconds remaining in first half)
Anthony Wilkerson – 1 carry for 3 yards, TD; 2 receptions for 16 yards
Blake Lueders – 3 tackles (2 solo)
Michael Thomas, Johnson Bademosi, Chase Thomas – INT each
K Eric Whitaker– 1/2 FGA, 4/4 PAT

Temple
2 first downs, 18 total yards of offense
0/7 on third down conversations, 1/3 on fourth down

Cowboys Send Bruins Home In Opening Round Thriller

#59 UCLA – 14
#6 Oklahoma State – 17

STILLWATER, Okla. -- Joseph Randle scored on a 11-yard run with five seconds remaining to give Oklahoma State a thrilling opening round victory over UCLA. The sophomore running back finished the day with 85 yards on 18 carries and propelled the Cowboys into the second round where they'll host #27 Auburn.

OSU jumped out to an early 7-0 lead on a 37-yard touchdown pass from Brandon Weeden to Hubert Anyiam. They forced a fumble on UCLA's opening possession but were unable to capitalize turning the ball over on downs at their own 45.

UCLA's Johnathan Franklin tied the score on a two yard plunge in the second quarter. The Bruins opened the second half with a promising drive but stalled at the OSU 40 failing to convert on fourth down.

Randle went to work again for the Pokes eating up yards and time, setting up Quin Sharp's go-ahead 24-yard field goal with 3:05 left to play.

Franklin answered on the opening play of the ensuing drive, taking a Richard Brehaut screen pass from the backfield and emerging from a sea of bodies to bust loose for a 66-yard gain down to the OSU 14. He'd punch it in two plays later on a 9-yard touchdown run putting UCLA ahead 14-10 with 2:08 remaining.

Weeden, who completed just 9 of 23 throws on the day, calmly led the no-huddle offense down to the red zone setting up Randle's game-winner. With just 11 seconds to go, Weeden took the shotgun snap and dropped back as if setting up to pass before giving the handoff to Randle who fought through two defenders, pushing one forward and falling over top into the end zone.

The Cowboys racked up 11 first downs on the day to go along with 246 yards of offense. They also held an 8 and a half minute advantage in time of possession.

Stats:
Oklahoma State
QB Brandon Weeden – 9 of 23, 167 yards, TD
RB Joseph Randle – 18 carries, 85 yards, TD
WR Justin Blackmon – 4 catches, 66 yards
WR Hubert Anyiam – 1 catch, 37 yards, TD
LB James Thomas – 5 tackles, 2 TFL

UCLA
QB Richard Brehaut – 7 of 12, 161 yards
RB Johnathan Franklin – 12 carries, 43 yards, 2 TDs; 2 catches, 92 yards

For The Strength Of The Pack Is The Wolf, And The Strength Of The Wolf Is The Pack

#46 NC State – 21
#19 Baylor – 7

WACO, Texas -- North Carolina State built a 21-0 lead and was able to keep the potent Baylor offense out of the end zone much of the game to come away with an opening round TNS upset. Much was expected of the Bears, who were taken highly in the draft, but Heisman winner Robert Griffin III will head to the cover of next year's edition of EA Sports NCAA College Football wondering what might have been.

After trading punts in the 1st quarter, the Wolfpack put together the first substantial drive of the day and faced 4th and 4 at the Baylor 29 yard line. Red elected to go for it rather than attempt the 47-yard field goal and QB Sean Glennon (filling in for depth chart starter Russell Wilson who was unable to compete in this year's tournament for any team after failing to get his permission slip signed in time) hit WR Chaz McQueen for 11 yards. The Pack got on the board first on the following play as Glennon found TE George Bryan after a play-action fake for the 18-yard touchdown.

NCSU forced a punt on the ensuing possession and took over at their own 25 with 30 seconds left before halftime. With Baylor getting the ball to start the third quarter, Red looked to extend the lead and Glennon was promptly picked off near midfield with 20 seconds remaining. Robert Griffin was sacked on 1st down before completing a 49-yard bomb to Josh Gordon who was taken down short of the end zone as time expired.

Baylor looked to be putting together a game-tying drive to open the 2nd half, but CB David Amerson stripped the ball free from RB Terrance Ganaway and CB Justin Byers scooped the fumble for a 62-yard touchdown return to give the Wolfpack a 14-0 advantage.

The Bears turned the ball over on downs on their own 45 the next possession and Red looked to put the game out of reach going for it on 4th and 10 - and finding WR Jay Smith for a 40-yard touchdown. The call was not met warmly. "I think it was wrong to go for it," Green said afterward.

"I'm thinking I'll get points with a field goal there and take [him] tying the game out of reach" said Red. "I lost yards on 3rd; didn't think I could make the kick. I missed one in the same spot the previous game" he continued. Smith pulled the catch in just beyond the first down line, but bounced off of two oncoming defenders and took it the rest of the way to the end zone.

Green quickly responded though, breaking off a 19-yard run by Griffin and then completing a 52-yard touchdown to WR Terrence Williams with 31 seconds remaining in the third.

It looked like they'd get the ball back right away too as Glennon was sacked before throwing an incompletion the following series, but he was to connect with WR TJ Graham for a 36-yard completion on 3rd and 16 to end the quarter.

After a Wolfpack punt, Baylor took over at their 10 yard line with 2:44 remaining but Griffin was sacked and threw three incomplete passes ending any chance of a comeback.

NC State was just 1 of 6 on third downs, but converted both fourth down attempts. They were also outgained by more than 100 yards (221-120) and had half as many first downs (8-4), yet were able to come away with a big opening round victory.

The Pack now await the winner of the #14 Florida State/#51 Northwestern matchup.

Stats:
NC State
QB Mike Glennon – 6 of 9, 97 yards, 2 TDs, INT
WR Jay Smith – 1 rec, 40 yards, TD
TE George Bryan – 1 rec, 18 yards, TD
CB David Amerson – 2 tackles, TFL, FF, 2 PBU
CB Justin Byers –  2 tackles, TFL, fumble recovery & TD, PBU
DE Rickey Dowdy – 2 sacks

Baylor
QB Robert Griffin – 8 of 21, 215 yards, TD
LB Chris McAllister – 6 tackles, 2 TFL

Green Comes Out Of Retirement To Same Result

#49 Pittsburgh – 14

#16 USC – 35

LOS ANGELES, California -- The Pitt Panthers traveled 2,400 miles to face the Trojans of Southern California.  The 3-3-5 schemed defense was no match for the rushing attack led by impact RB Marc Tyler.  Tyler racked up 189 yards on 23 rushes with three touchdowns.  QB Matt Barkley also chipped in with a consistently efficient game, going 7 for 11 for 130-yards and one touchdown to Brice Butler.

Pittsburgh RB Ray Graham kept the game close, running for 177 yards and two touchdowns.  The Trojans defense was too much for Panther QB Tino Sunseri.  Sunseri was constantly overwhelmed, finishing 2/12 for 61 yards (which came on one completion) and a total of five interceptions.  One of Sunseri’s five interceptions was returned for a 36 yard touchdown by hunting CB Brian Backham.

#16 USC will host #17 Virginia Tech, the benefactor of game clock mismanagement by Blue, in the second round.

Stats:
USC
QB Matt Barkely – 7/11 for 120 yards, TD
RB Marc Taylor – 23 carries for 189 yards, 8.2 AVG, 3 TDs (49-yard long)
WR Robert Woods – 2 receptions for 28 yards
Brice Butler – 1 reception for 9 yards, TD
Shane Horton – 6 tackles (5 solo), FR
Brian Backham – INT, 36-yard TD

Pittsburgh
QB Tino Sunseri – 2/12 for 61 yards, 5 INTs
RB Ray Graham – 17 carries for 177 yards, 2 TDs (64-yard long)
WR Devin Street – 1 reception for 61 yards

The Real Lives Of A TNS Girlfriend

Upset Prompts Rage, Short-Lived Retirement By Green

#58 Purdue – 21

#7 LSU – 17

BATON ROUGE, La. --  Heavily favored LSU hosted the Purdue Boilermakers in Death Valley as an overconfident Green sought his second victory against his brother Orange.  LSU’s defense looked to take an early lead with a first play interception by the ball hawking CB Tyrann ‘The Honeybadger’ Mathieu.   The Tigers were able to punch in a touchdown for the game's first score. 

In the second quarter, after a few early turnovers by Purdue’s QB Rob Marve saw the second string QB Rob Henry take the field. Henry was able to drive the ball down the field before being pulled in the redzone.  QB Rob Marve was able to prove his starter-status as he completed a late touchdown pass in the quarter.  LSU went into half time leading 17-7 and looked to continue the SEC’s streak of winning games against the B1G Ten.

The second half was a completely different story as Purdue was able to captilize off good field position.  After a big run by impact RB Ralph Bolden, Purdue utilized a no huddle offense to drive into the end zone, bringing the score within three points.  Purdue tried to take the lead in the beginning of the fourth quarter, but LSU’s defense came up big with forcing a fumble from Rob Marve inside the five yard line.

Purdue was able to get the ball back and on third down with 19 yards to go, Rob Marve connected with streaking a streaking wide receiver down the sidelines for the go ahead touchdown.  A miscommunication took place in the LSU defensive backfield that left the wide receiver wide open.  

The quick score left LSU with a chance to retaliate, however, the tension that filled the disbelieving Death Valley foretold of the inevitable, unspeakable outcome.  LSU’s Jordan Jefferson led the team to Purdue's 35 yard line, but a bad decision on an errant pass over the middle near the goal line closed out the game.  

Green forced a lost connection as the frustration of watching a potential final four team losing in the first round boiled over.  According to sources, Green went so far as to smash a TNS bracket over his knee, while shouting at Orange: "What is it that you are doing, that no one else does!"  After a short-lived resignation from the tournament, Green and Orange reportedly made amends over laughter, much to the shock and awe of their respective roommates who witnessed the encounter.  As Red famously remarked, "it is a wild mistress."

Rob Marve will attempt to lead his Boilermakers past #39 BYU in the second round.  The Cougars will be forced to travel cross-country to West Lafayette as Purdue now assumes LSU's lofty #9 seed for home field advantage purposes.

Stats:
Purdue
QB Robert Marve – 8/15 for 124 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, 2 fumbles
RB Raplh Bolden – 5 carries for 56 yards, TD; 2 receptions for 15 yards
Logan Link – 2 tackles (2 solo), INT, FF
Gerald Gooden – 3 tackles (3 solo), TFL
Ricardo Allen – 2 tackles (solo), ATK, PD
241 yards of total offense, 4/6 third down conversions, 1/1 fourth down, four turnovers

LSU
84 yards of total offense, two turnovers

Northern Exposure

#55 Northern Illinois – 14
#10 Wisconsin – 0

QB Chandler Harnish watches WR Willie Clark score the game's lone offensive TD

MADISON, Wisc. -- Wisconsin fumbled on their first possession, and - in Red's words - never recovered.

It was expected to be an easy win; the beginning of a promising campaign for the Badgers. Instead, they never got on the board, and Northern Illinois captured the first major upset victory of the 2012 tournament.

NIU Offensive Coordinator (and future Head Coach) Rod Carey, who is from Madison, wasn't surprised by the big win. "We knew we had a chance. That's what I told our guys. I was saying there's a chance," he said. "And I feel like my leadership as the offensive coordinator really helped our defense not allow any points."

Wisconsin's potent running game was held in check, and the Badger receivers suffered a plethora of frustrating drops due to contact, as NIU's big win was buoyed by an inspired performance from its defense.

Perhaps the most impressive play of the game, though, came on special teams. Northern Illinois had a 4th and 10 at the Wisconsin 45, and elected to punt the ball away. The ensuing punt took a couple bounces and went out of bounds squarely at the 1-yard line, eliciting an eerie hush from the Madison crowd.

The Badgers obtained some breathing room with a 21-yd pass play on the subsequent set of downs, but were forced to punt after three consecutive incompletions. NIU, feeling generous, promptly fumbled the ball away on the next play, and the defensive battle was on.

It wasn't until late in the first half when the Huskies broke through on a 31-yard touchdown pass from QB Chandler Harnish to WR Willie Clark on a screen play, giving them a 7-0 halftime lead.

Northern Illinois started the second half with ball, but Wisconsin quickly got it back on another fumble recovery. On the ensuing possession, Wisconsin threw an interception to CB Dominique Ware, which was returned 63 yards for the game's second touchdown.

Wisconsin's final drive of the game had promise, until they tuned it over on downs with four minutes remaining in the game. NIU was able to run out the clock from there.

Northern Illinois travels to Manhattan, Kansas to take on #23 Kansas State in round two, where they will try to become the sixth team in TNS history seeded 55 or higher to advance to the Sweet 16.

Stats:
Northern Illinois
QB Chandler Harnish – 9/12, 107 yards, TD
CB Dominique Ware – 63-yard INT return for TD

Blue Knile*

#57 Louisville – 0

#8 Arkansas – 40

The Cardinals had trouble keeping up with HB Knile Davis

FAYATEVILLE, Ark. -- Blue was aching for a breakout performance. He got one in Arkansas's 40-0 beatdown of Louisville, the most lopsided result of the young tournament.

For the first time this year, Blue exhibited efficiency in the passing game - QB Tyler Wilson went 9 for 10 for 132 yards with 2 touchdowns and no interceptions. However, it was HB Knile Davis that stole the show for the Razorbacks.

Wilson found Davis through the air for a 7-yard touchdown on Arkansas's first play from scrimmage following a Teddy Bridgewater interception. Davis later punched it in on a 2-yard run and 59-yard screen play to give Arkansas a 21-0 halftime lead. They were able to cruise from there, with the defense holding Louisville to 1 for 8 on third down and 1 for 5 on fourth down for the game. Bridgewater finished 7 for 19  through the air and was held in check on the ground. As a team, Louisville went backwards to the tune of -31 yards rushing, thanks in part to a third-quarter sack of Bridgewater following a long dropback, one of four he endured on the day. 

After reaching 100 yards receiving in the first half, Davis took to the ground in the second, notching two more touchdowns to give him a total of five for the game. He finished the contest with 132 yards on 18 carries. Arkansas did not attempt a pass in the second half.

Things are finally starting to take shape in the Northleft bracket with #25 Texas now preparing to travel to Fayetteville, and a couple other possible second round matchups of interest on the radar, namely Alabama-Florida and North Carolina-South Carolina. There is a lot of first round football left, however, so believe me . . . it's a hypothetical.

Stats:
North Carolina
HB Knile Davis – 18 rushes, 132 yards, 3 TDs; 6 receptions, 100 yards, 2 TDs

*pun alert

Break On Through

#41 North Carolina  – 21
#24 Texas A&M – 13

North Carolina CB Lecount Fantroy shakes Texas A&M QB Ryan Tannehill on his way to the end zone

COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- Blue trudged into College Station battered and bruised, 2-7 record in tow. He and the North Carolina Tar Heels departed with a few extra gray hairs and a hard-fought victory in a tight contest between two talented squads.

Freshman return specialist/special teams gunner CB Lecount Fantroy keyed the win for UNC with two interceptions, including a 102-yard int return touchdown in the second quarter. "I'm just looking to contribute in any way I can," he said after the game. "I'm also looking to try and hang out later."

Fantroy's TD was bookended by two A&M field goals, one from 49-yards out, giving UNC a slim 7-6 advantage at the half.

Two plays into the third quarter, the Aggies returned the favor with a pick-six of their own. Junior CB Dustin Harris showed that he knows what a five is, as he Asante Samuel-ed the slot receiver running the out route, and took it to the house to put Texas A&M ahead 13-7.

North Carolina came right back on their next drive, which was capped by an 8-yard touchdown run by AJ Blue. Then, with four minutes remaining in the game, UNC got the ball back deep in their own territory on QB Ryan Tannehill's third interception of the day. The Tar Heels drove down the field, and QB Bryn Renner (UNC's other "gunner") found TE James Hurst up the middle to set up a 1st and goal from the 1. AJ Blue was able to punch it in again on a toss play, giving UNC an 8-point lead.

Texas A&M, needing a touchdown and 2-point conversion, was able to engineer a promising drive in the final minutes. They earned a 3rd and 2 at the UNC 25-yard line with 40 seconds to go, and opted to run, which may have been costly, as they were stopped short and had no timeouts remaining. Another handoff to HB Christine Michael on 4th and 1 narrowly yielded a clutch first down, but the Aggies only had time for a couple more plays. On the final play of the game, Fantroy picked off his second pass to seal it for the Heels.

It was Blue's first win over the Brothers Godfrey in 2012, and the second of three tough losses for Green on Thursday night.

North Carolina eagerly awaits the winner of #9 South Carolina and #56 Texas Tech.

Stats:
North Carolina
CB Lecount Fantroy – 2 INTs, 102-yd INT return for TD
HB AJ Blue – 11 rushes, 55 yards, 2 TDs; 5 receptions, 41 yards

Wolverines Have X-Factor In B1G TNS W

#54 Illinois – 7
#11 Michigan – 14

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Michigan’s offense squandered multiple opportunities to build a lead against the Illini, but their defense kept them in the game and came up with a goal-line stand allowing @Denard Robinson to connect with @Roy Roundtree for a 48-yard game-winning touchdown with 16 seconds remaining.

The Wolverines D didn’t get off to a good start though. On their first play from scrimmage, Illinois QB Nathan Scheelhaase found TE Justin Lattimore for a 60-yard catch and run giving the Illini an early 7-0 lead. But it would be their only points of the day as Michigan held them to just 85 yards of offense for the remainder of the contest.

Two red-zone turnovers, a Vincent Smith fumble and Robinson interception, had the Wolverines in a hole before Robinson was able to find TE Kevin Koger for a 16-yard TD after eluding the oncoming rush from a play-action fake.

Illinois looked to have regained the lead midway through the 4th on a second down Jason Ford touchdown, but the run was called back for a holding penalty on sociology major Hugh Thornton (they’re student-athletes, remember). Scheelhaase completed his third down pass, but the Michigan D held the Illini up at the 2 yard line. Rather than kick the go-ahead field goal, Green rolled the dice and went back to Ford on a toss to the left side but the play was blown up immediately in the backfield and the Wolverines took over on their 7 yard line with 2:19 remaining.

Robinson was clutch on the eventual game-winning drive, continually completing 3rd down throws (the Wolverines were an impressive 7 for 9 on 3rd down conversations throughout the game) and calmly advancing the offense down the field. Content with doing no worse than overtime, Red bled the clock and when Green finally brought pressure off the edge on a corner blitz was able to find the streaking Roundtree for a 48 yard catch & run up the sideline to paydirt.

Sugar Land, Texas' Troy Woolfork, son of former Michigan All-American tailback Butch Woolfolk (1978-81), sealed the game with an interception.

Michigan racked up 9 first downs on the way to 219 yards of offense. With the win, the Wolverines will move on to play the winner of #22 Clemson vs. #43 Cal.

Stats:
Michigan
Denard Robinson – 13/21 for 181 yards, 2 TDs, INT
Roy Roundtree – 5 rec, 78 yards, TD
Darryl Stonum – 3 rec
Kevin Koger – 3 rec
Troy Woolfork – INT

21 Days/9 Games Later, Orange Goes Down

#52 Toledo – 20

#13 Michigan State – 23 (OT)

EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Thwarted first by the unreliable PlayStation Network connectivity, Green was able to outlast Orange and defeat him for the first time of the 2012 tournament.

At the start of 2012 TNS, whispers loomed of a talented color seeking to prove himself on a third generation system where his comfort level matched his swagger.  No game Orange has contest could more speak to the dog, the fiery passion motivating him on this 2012 mission than his first defeat.

Throughout seven and a half quarters of play, Orange stood toe-to-toe with Green in what should have been a lopsided encounter,  After all, Michigan State is a highly ranked, talented team, which was playing on its home turf.  Green was able to jump out to a 20-10 second half lead, only to see Orange consistently chip away.  Toledo QB Terrance Owens hooked up with a receiver on a final possession before the end of regulation with a pass that was tipped multiple times by two Spartan defenders.  A Toledo kick goal forced overtime, Green’s second match of the tournament that could not be settled in regulation.

The game did not hang in the balance much longer, as Green was able to intercept Toledo’s first play from scrimmage in OT after winning the toss.  Green wasted no time and sent kicker Dan Conroy straight to the field on first down, who won it with a 42 yard field goal.

It was Orange’s first defeat yet Green left the match exasperated with his play, and perhaps more fearful of his brother despite picking up the W.  Michigan State advanced to set up an all B1G Ten match up against #21 Nebraska.

Stats:

Michigan State

Kirk Cousins – 8/18 for 214 yards, TD, INT, Fumble

Edwin Baker* – 23 carries for 127 yards, TD, 2 receptions for 49 yards, TD

Dana Dixon – 6 tackles (4 solo), 2 ATK

Toledo

Terrance Owens – 14/24 for 228 yards, 2 INT

Mark Singer – 11 tackles (8 solo), 3 ATK

13 first downs, 3 turnovers

Ready. Set. Terrible.

#47 Arizona State – 10
#18 Penn State – 0

Does this live ball look like it might actually be out of bounds? You should chall--oh wait

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- As Red put it, we set TNS back several years.

Not for the faint of heart, this game featured a stunning array of inexplicable throws, fumbles, interceptions, dropped interceptions, and nauseated fans looking away in disgust. One of the fumbles, pictured above, impossibly teetered on the edge of the field as the game teetered on the edge of madness, sinking into the existential gap between video game and horror movie; between timespace and nothingness.

When all was said and done, Arizona State, despite perpetrating most of the miscues, emerged with the win, Blue's second of the year. Rather than dignify the contest with a summary of its events, let's leave it at that. Nothing to see here.

Stats:
Arizona State
HB Cameron Marshall – 11 carries, 44 yards, TD; 7 receptions, 58 yards