Although it was not the best that either Florida or Oklahoma played this season the BCS Championship Game was at last an entertaining and competitive game after several recent blowouts. Florida’s two big stops in the red zone will remain the lasting image of the game for me and one has to question Coach Stoops for not kicking the field goal. Fans would have cringed at not going for it on 4th down that close to the goal line but when you eschew taking the lead in a championship game you are setting up for trouble. It seems to be that type of arrogance with Stoops that tends to cost him big games and has him rub off the wrong way on some fans and media members but his track record at Oklahoma is still very impressive.
Both award winning QBs had two interceptions in the game which was a surprise considering how great the numbers have been but the opportunistic defenses being involved should keep those turnovers in perspective. Tebow’s two picks were bad throws, Bradford really had some tough luck on both of his interceptions as the receiver failed to make the play. A few bounces go differently and Oklahoma likely wins this game as the Sooners rushed the ball effectively and had several opportunities to take the lead. Florida still pulled away and held on for the cover in a rare championship game with a significant line move. Middling opportunists brought the closing line back down and saved Vegas from a rough game, as did the easy ‘under’.
In other college news Boston College grabbed headlines for firing Jeff Jagodzinski. Although many coaches go through the interview and bargain for a better contract/job process every year, I must commend BC for taking a stand. It may be unpopular with some fans and players and the Eagles could take a step back next season after back-to-back division titles as they regroup again but a point had to be made. Too many coaches are jumping around to the next best gig while spewing out lies and we credit the BC administration for valuing loyalty. Jagodzinski had no head coaching experience when BC gave him a shot and he will greatly benefit from that successful two-year run wherever he ends up next. Players that committed their immediate futures and potential careers to him will not be so fortunate to be able scoop up a new gig if things do not work out for them with the new staff. I can’t blame Jagodzinski for wanting to interview for an NFL gig but honoring the length of a contract should be matter once in a while as well.
