Orange Bowl Champs?

Dubois Bookstore in Clifton has announced that "after the team wins the Orange Bowl", they will have t-shirts available the very next day.  We love the confidence the Dubois Family has in UC football.  They have stock piled a nice assortment of Big East and Orange Bowl items.   So stop by and check them out!

Fountain Blue

The vacation is over, time for football.  Head Coach Brian Kelly has moved his team from the Fontainebleau Hotel to a quieter setting.  Having seen the way Coach Kelly operates and the strict schedule he maintains it is no surprise that he is moving the team.  Apparently the place is going to be a zoo on New Years Eve.  Plus, I for one am tired of hearing about P. Diddy in almost every news report I see coming out of Miami.   It was nice for the players to enjoy this perk, but now it's time for football.  Earlier in the week Coach Kelly praised his football operations guy John Widecan, changing hotels in Miami on New Years Eve is a challenge John can now add to his impressive resume.

The Invasion Begins

Several Bearcat fans have already arrived in South Beach to begin the "Orange Bowl Experience". However, Tuesday afternoon the largest single group headed down I 75 toward Miami. At 4:00 13 buses left campus with the Orange Bowl 22 hours away. Our own Shawn Hayes is on one of the buses and filed this report as they were leaving.

We hope everyone heading south a safe journey. Please be careful. Shawn will be reporting for Bearcat Sports Page.com from Miami starting Wednesday, or as soon as both he and his laptop re-charge their batteries.

Monday Night: #24 Memphis on ESPN

Monday night the Bearcats wrap up the non conference part of their schedule in Memphis taking on the #24 ranked Tigers. The main purpose behind the first 2 months of play is to develop the team and get them ready for conference play, it's a bonus if you can pick up some "quality wins" and boost your post season resume along the way.
We talked to Head Coach Mick Cronin about his teams development so far, and the importance of building a resume before hitting conference play.

The players know how good Memphis is and how this is another opportunity to see if they measure up against a ranked team on the road.

A win against Memphis would certainly bring some attention to the Bearcats. As they enter Big East play no one is talking about UC, mainly because they spoiled their last opportunity in the ESPN spotlight.


Monday Night 9:00 ESPN @ #24 Memphis
The Bearcats enter the contest with the Tigers favored by 13 points, the same amount Memphis was favored by last year when they came into Fifth Third Arena with a #2 ranking. An "under maned" Bearcat team played with tremendous heart kept the game close losing by only 10. How hard did UC play? They out rebounded the Tigers, a team that won the battle on the boards in almost every game last year on their way to the national championship game.

UC Favored by 2

When the BSC selections first came out the odds makers had the Orange Bowl as a "pick'em" game. Meaning that they didn't have a favorite. Since then UC has become favored by 2 points. In our search across the internet we have found that most "experts" are now picking UC in their attempt to pick winners and losers for every bowl game. ESPN's Lee Corso has gone against the trend and went as afar as to make Virginia Tech his "lock" or his guaranteed winner. Last week before the team left we asked them about some experts picking against the Bearcats.

Video: Courtesy: ESPN

Our favorite prediction came from Wat if Sports.com. They took UC 23-14. In their computer simulated game they even had Mardy Gilyard making an 89 yard TD catch from Tony Pike.

UC Coverage In Miami

Bearcat Sports Page.com is a student/professor based "organization". What does that mean? We don't have any income, so we are not in Miami covering UC like we want to be. We are relying on others to cover the Orange Bowl for a few days until we get there. For local TV coverage WCPO-TV Ch #9 was on air from Miami Saturday night with John Popovich. For national internet coverage we sugget Fox Sports, and why not they are televising the BCS games. Cincinnati Enquirer reporter Bill Koch has his usual wall to wall coverage, as does gobearcats.com.
We will have reporter Shawn Hayes making daily reports once he starts his adventure on a student bus Tuesday, and we gave Mardy Gilyard a video camera to capture some scenes in Miami. His reports should be available starting Tuesday.

Practice: Day #1

We are not in Miami yet, so we have to rely on what the press there are asking. Here is a great question for Coach Kelly at todays practice:
On getting advice from others coaches on the Orange Bowl…
"I did'nt talk to anybody that had been to the Orange Bowl. I have talked to, and have a lot of coaches in the fraternity that I’ve talked to about bowl trips. What I was most concerned with more than anything else was simply the logistics. You know, going to a new hotel, you know all those things. So I was more focused on the logistics more than anything else, but when you got a football ops guys like I got in John Widecan, I don’t worry about a lot of that stuff."
Thanks to the UC sports information staff for doing their job and forwarding  quotes from so amy events to all media.   Remember this is a "national game" so you are going to get reporters that have never seen UC.    However, it should be noted that John Widecan is the best in college football.    He is in charge of football operations, in other words he plans everything.  Ask any UC coach that has been through Clifton and they will tell you the same. He has been on board for every UC bowl game in the "modern era" and he said that this has been much harder, but it's been well worth it.

Phase 1: Non Conference

With a record of 10-2 the Bearcats travel to Memphis Monday for their final non conference game before starting Big East Conference play. So Saturday before practice we asked Coach Mick Cronin and some of his players if they thought they ended the non conference phase of their season the way they wanted to?

Compared to the past two years, the team has escaped the "first phase" of the season in much better shape. But what about the freshmen? They have no comparison, they weren't around last year. We asked Yancy Gates about his first taste of division 1 college basketball, with the best yet to come!

Monday the Bearcats travel to Memphis to take on another top 25 team, a chance to not only test themselves against top competition but a chance to get a "quality win".

Big East Basketball Numbers

This week marks the end of "non-conference" basketball.  Here is how the Big East looks both top 25 and RPI.

Top 25:

2.  UCONN

3.  Pitt

8.  Notre Dame

12.  Georgetown

17. Syracuse

18.  Villanova

19.  Louisville

RPI:

1.  Pitt

7.  UCONN

26.  Georgetown

30.  Syracuse

34.  Villanova

37.  West Virginia

47.  Marquette

52. CINCINNATI

56. Louisville

71. Notre Dame

Made for TV Honors

With just a few games being played over the past week the "analyst" are forced to analyze something.  Most of the bowl games themselves have been analyzed, so what's left?  The players themselves.  Last week ESPN's Mark May named Tony Pike to his "May Day Team".    Players he feels showed tremendous toughness and determination over the season.  

A couple of other Bearcats have gotten some national recognition on ESPN since the BCS selections were made with other "made for TV honors".

Please check out espn.com for more detailed analysis of the upcoming Orange Bowl.

Miami Bound, The Adventure Has Started

This afternoon at 3:00 the Bearcat football team touched down in Miami to officially begin their Orange Bowl Experience. The buses left campus this morning at 11:30 and Bearcat Sports Page.com was on hand. The team got together this morning for the first time since they parted ways last Saturday. A team meeting took the players right up to the 11:30 departure so Coach Kelly and Connor Barwin were the only available interviews. Here is what they had to say.

I don't know how many times he has answered the same question, but Coach Kelly continues to stress that they are going to Miami to win a football game, not sight see. He definitely wants his players, especially the seniors to get the most out of the BCS experience so no one has to look back and say "what if".

Christmas Shopping

Last week when the football team was in their early bowl preparations we asked a few guys a very thought provoking question.

If you could by anyone on the team a Christmas present who would it be and what would you get them?

We want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.  Going to the Orange Bowl is a tremendous present for everyone, coaches, players, administrators and fans.  However, the true gift this Holiday Season is the blessed safety and well being of all UC student athletes.  Bearcat SportsPage.com would like to wish everyone a safe and happy new year.    This is our first year doing this and we hope that we help bring you closer to all UC sports and the Student Athletes that work so hard through out the year.

10 Wins By Christmas, a Nice Present

Monday night the Bearcats posted their 10th win of the season by beating Arkansas Pine Bluff by 30 points.  So what you ask?  Aren't they playing "cupcakes"?   In comparison to years past it is an accomplishment worth noting.  During the past week, for what it's worth, some topics on talk radio have centered around the job Mick Cronin is doing in Clifton.  Let's put win #10 in perspective.  It happened on December 22. Last year win # 10 was put in the books on January 30th and the year before it came ten days earlier, on January 20.  Even looking back at Andy Kennedy's season in charge, his 10th win came on December 28th.  By the way his first win that season was in OT against Mick Cronin and Murray State.

Against similar opponents, this years team went 5-1 in December as opposed to the last years team limping into Christmas 1-5 in the same month.  Ten wins in December with youth and potential looks much better than 6 wins at the same time in previous years with the thought of getting win #1o not a "when" but an 'if".

LAST DAY FOR TICKETS

Today, Tuesday December 23rd, is the last day to order Orange Bowl tickets through UC.  Any ticket purchased form any other source does not help the school recover the cost of the tickets they were allotted.  If you plan on going and have not bought a ticket yet contact the ticket office.

Even if you can not go to the game, purchasing a ticket will help the University cover the cost of their tickets.  

3 Hokies May Miss Game

When Virginia Tech takes the field against the Bearcats on New Years day they will possibly be without three starters.  Senior offensive lineman Nick Marshman will not play because of academic ineligibility.  Marshman, who has already received his undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech did not pass the required 6 credit hours during the fall quarter to maintain elegibility.    Injuries more than likely will side line two more, linebacker Brett Warrenn and defensive end Jason Worilds, are both expected to miss the Orange Bowl.  The source of this information is the Roanoke Times:  Click here for the entire article.

Gates, Player of the Week

Freshman Yancy Gates was named the Big East Rookie Player of the week today.

The Cincinnati native averaged over 15 points and 8 rebounds in the Bearcats 3 wins against Charleston Southern, Mississippi St, and Eastern Kentucky.  Gates is the first Bearcat to get this honor since Deonta Vaughn received it two years ago.

Fox to Show Saturdays Final Minute

Fox Sports Ohio has announced that they will show the exciting conclusion from Saturdays win against Eastern Kentucky tonight.   Due to a computer glitch in New York the game was switched to Blue jackets hockey with about a minute to go in the game.   The final minute plus overtime will be played after the conclusion of tonight's telecast of UC facing Arkansas Pine Bluff.  Game time at Fifth Third Arena is 7:30.

Oops, Sorry.

Did you miss the end of the UC/Eastern Kentucky game Saturday night?  Instead of seeing the exciting final minute that led to over time, most viewers saw a hockey pre-game show.

Fox Sports apologized today and said that it was merely a computer glitch in the computer system at Fox Sports Ohio's transmission Center in New York.  By the time the error was they were unable to override the error and resume broadcasting the game.

Goodie Bag

For the past two weeks UC players, fans and coaches alike have been giving the gift or oranges.  Next week when the Bearcats check into their hotel there will be more than a bag of oranges to greet them.   According to an article appearing on Fox Sports.com this is a list of what the team gets for their efforts.

1.  $300 Sony Gift Suite for electronics

2.  New Era fitted hat

3.  Tourneau Watch

4.  Crocs with Orange Bowl Logo

5.  Ogio backpack

6. Customized Luggage Tags

The national championship participants get the same list, wit the addition of a Blockbuster subscription.

For a complete list of what each bowl gives out:  Click Here

U-G-L-Y spells W-I-N for Bearcats; Sneak past Colonels in OT

The men's basketball team was back in action after a hard-fought win over Mississippi State on Thursday.  This time, the lesser opponent would prove to be a bigger test than expected as the Bearcats needed a miracle "alley-oop"  and overtime to defeat Eastern Kentu
cky, 85-77, this evening at Fifth Third Arena.

To say this wasn't the must frustrating game I've watched would be an understatement during my time as a Bearcat fan but let's get to the game.  The 'Cats came out strong taking charge and going ahead 8-6 early.  However, that is the last time the 'Cats would have the lead as a three put the Colonels up 9-8 and

 they wouldn't look back, until overtime.

In a game of lucky threes and strong pressure from EKU, the 'Cats found themselves tied 71-71 when Larry Davis was called for a blocking foul.  EKU sank both free throws and the 'Cats had the ball with 4.6 seconds left.

Mike Williams inbound the ball to Dion Dixon as EKU played what I would call the "prevent defense" of college basketball.  Dixon dribbled handed, off to Deonta Vaughn who dribble-drove and set up Yancy Gates on the planned "alley-oop" play with just 0.1 seconds remaining to send the game to overtime.

The Bearcats found their legs and buckled down in overtime, going ahead right away and outscoring EKU in the overtime period 10-2, to emerge with an 85-77 victory.

Top 'Cats

Deonta Vaughn: 20 pts., 4 reb., 7 asts., 1 stl.

Yancy Gates: 17 pts., 8 reb.

Mike Williams:  13 pts., 16 reb., 2 asts. (MVP)

Dion Dixon: 8pts., 8 reb., 4 asts.

Larry Davis: 14 pts., 2 asts., 1 stl.

Top Colonels

Mike Rose: 25 pts., 5 reb.

Jorge Camacho: 12 pts. 1 reb., 2 asts., 1 stl.

Mike Lewis: 11 pts., 4 reb., 8 asts., 1 stl.

Last Practice at Nippert

Saturday morning the Bearcats will strap on the pads for their final practice of the season at Nippert Stadium. After practice they will all go their separate ways to celebrate Christmas before meeting up again in Clifton on December 26th to board a plane for Miami. Excitement for the bowl game is starting to sink in, but for the seniors it's also starting to sink in that this is their final practice in the stadium they call home.

The last practice means more than just leaving a stadium. For most it's like members of a family going their separate ways. In his interview after practice DeAngelo Smith put his arm around head football trainer Bob Mangine. A man that has had a tremendous impact on so many young men since he came to UC in 2001.

As the seniors walk out of Nippert after their last practice they can look back and say that they are leaving the program in better shape than it was when they arrived.

The seniors also know that the program is in good hands. Not just the coaches, but the younger players that will keep going what they have started.

One of the under lying benefits of playing in a bowl game that is scheduled on New Years day is the extra practice time. Not necessarily to get ready for the opponent, but to get the younger guys some extra practice time. Ask any coach and they will tell you that this is a tremendous benefit for developing a team. The team leaves for Miami on Dec 26th and will begin practice on the 27th. During a normal week the team practices Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with a walk through on Friday. Leading up to the bowl game they will get an extra day of practice. Bearcat Sports Page.com wishes everyone on the football team a safe trip home for the Christmas and look forward to seeing them in Miami.

Miss St: Learning Experience

Thursday nights victory over Mississippi State was a "quality win". After a tough game last Saturday when the Bearcats stumbled out of the gate they played terrific basketball in the first half and were able to sustain a 2nd half charge by the Bulldogs and win the game.

UC jumped on Mississippi State early and often building a comfortable lead in the first half. Then in the second half the Bulldogs mounted a comeback. It was definitely a tale of two halves for UC.

The second half comeback by Mississippi State was an area of concern, but it depends if you are a glass half full or glass half empty person. Glass half empty, yes they blew a large lead. Glass half full, the young guys didn't loose their composure and they weathered the storm and built the lead back into a nice win. Who kept the team from falling apart?

With an SEC team leaving town does not mean it gets any easier. As Coach Cronin said there are no easy games and Eastern Kentucky is a formidable opponent. What is he looking for out of the next two games before Christmas?

Saturday night the Cats square off against Eastern Kentucky at Fifth third arena.

Ground Breaking For Bubble

Ironically on a rainy day the University broke ground on the new practice facility that includes a practice dome, or bubble. Athletic Director Mike Thomas, Brian Kelly and several players were on hand for the big event. It took place near the storage barns on Jefferson Ave where the facility will be built. Three important facts about this. First off, the money for this project is still being raised, it's not bought and paid for yet. Secondly, this will not take money away from academic side of the school, it's all private funds. Last but not least, this facility is for the entire university not just football. All sports will use it, as will the student body for intramurals and other programs.

Quite a bit of work, both construction and financial, lie ahead. However, if things go as planned the facility should be completed by late next year.

'Cats top 'Dogs; Big East gets first win in SEC/Big East Challenge

The men's basketball team handed the Mississippi St. Bulldogs a 75-63 loss in from of  meager crowd at U.S. Bank Arena.  The 'Cats, playing their most well-rounded game of basketball, were led by senior Deonta Vaughn who had 16 pts. on 6-14 shooting.  

In the first half, the game stayed neck and neck until the Bearcats ended the half on a 15-0 run to lead 47-29.  The Bearcats came out strong in the 2nd half but quickly began to struggle as MSU cut the Cincinnati lead to just five.  The 'Cats would retain their composure and end the game strong, and picking up a quality win.

Mississippi State was led my Jarvis Vanardo who had 24 pts.

The Bearcats win gives the Big East its first win in the SEC/Big East Challenge.

Top 'Cats

Deonta Vaughn- 16 pts., 7 reb., 6 asts., 3 steals

Dion Dixon- 14 pts.; 3 reb.; 1 asts.; 2 steals

Yancy Gates- 12 pts.; 9 reb.

Top 'Dogs

Jarvis Vanardo- 24 pts.; 6 reb.; 4 blks.

Phil Turner- 12 pts.; 6 reb.; 1 asts.; 3 steals

Ravern Johnson- 9 pts.; 1 reb.; 3 asts.

For complete coverage and box scores , you can visit www.espn.go.com or visit www.gobearcats.com when they put it up on their site.

Mississippi State Tonight

No one makes the NCAA tournament in December, but big non conference wins definitely make a difference in March. Thursday night the Bearcats have the chance to collect one of those "quality wins" the selection committee likes. Mississippi State comes to town as part of the SEC Big East Invitational being played at US Bank Arena downtown. The team knows this is an important game.

The morning edition of The Cincinnati Enquirer had an article about the importance of the sophomores in the teams success. Developing the youth of this team is crucial, guys like Alvin Mitchell and Yancy gates.

The Mississippi State game is the first part of a double header. In the second game Louisville takes on Mississippi and it's head coach Andy Kennedy. Of course UC plays Louisville when conference play starts next month. Coach Cronin plans of watching the Cardinals, that is...he'll watch as much as he can.

UC vs Mississippi State

Tonight 6:30

Orange Bowl Practice Today

With ice and snow covering the turf at Nippert Stadium the team headed north to mason again today for practice. Wall to Wall Sports was kind enough to make room for the team today as they continue to get ready for the Orange Bowl on January 1st.

SEC-Big East Invitational In CIncy

Thursday night the basketball team will be part of a double header at US Bank Arena down on the river. TheSEC/Big East Invitational is coming to Cincinnati. The first game has UC taking on Mississippi State and the night cap is Louisville against Mississippi.

With only 5,800 people in the stands Monday night there is some concern that a small crowd may make this a one time event unless it gets the support it deserves.

For Bearcat season ticket holders, this is not part of your season ticket package. Plenty of tickets are available. For information on the event and tickets: Click here.

UC vs Mississippi State 6:30

Louisville vs Mississippi 9:00

AP All Americans

    The Associated Press announced their All American teams this evening and for the second straight year punter Kevin Huber was a first team selection. He becomes the first Bearcat to ever win first team status in back to back years. Along with Huber offensive guard Trevor Canfield was named to the second team and defensive back Mike Mickens was a third team selection. Most impressive about these selections is that Huber and Canfield got their diplomas Saturday before they got this award.
Kevin Huber 1st Team
Trevor Canfield 2nd Team
Mike Mickens 3rd Team

Win Helps Hangover

Monday night the Bearcats were back on the court at Fifth Third Arena trying to "move on" after the loss to Xavier over the weekend. The opponent was a Big South team in Charleston Southern.

Last week before the Xavier game head coach Mick Cronin said that he scheduled the game Monday for his team to "get Xavier out of their system" before their gameThursday against Mississippi State.  Did the 74-55 win accomplish the goal?

The only down side in Mondays win was the crowd, or lack their of.   Less than 6,00o were on hand.  Thursday UC hosts the Big East/SEC Challenge at  the US Bank Arena downtown as part of a doubleheader with Louisville.  A big crowd is needed so events like it will return in the future.  This year it's Mississippi and Mississippi St, who knows in the future other SEC teams like LSU, Florida and Kentucky could be playing downtown in this event, but not without success this year.

Bearcat Sports Page.com will have interviews about Mississippi State leading up to Thursdays game.

Party Time Cut Short

If you want to share a beer with a Virginia Tech football player on South Beach, do it before midnight.  Virginia Tech head coach Frank Beamer has set the Hokies curfew for their 6 day stay for midnight.  Apparently in years past it was set at 2AM.  VT has lost 4 of their last 5 bowl games including a 24-21 upset loss to Kansas in last years Orange Bowl.  Here is a comment taken from the Roanoke Times on an article about the curfew:

"We're not going to be there to get drunk and party, we're going to win the Orange Bowl".

Virginia Tech Senior Defensive End Orion Martin

Other changes by the Hokies in an attempt to reverse their loosing bowl trend include moving from the team hotel the night before the game and giving the players scouting reports on the opponent earlier that in past years.  This according to an article in the Roanoke Times.

No word yet on UC's pre-game strategy, or curfew times.

Day 1: Short Practice

Monday afternoon the Bearcat football team returned to the turf at Nippert Stadium.  The team practice was supposed to run from 3:00 until 5:00, instead it ended around 4:10.  Because of that, our coverage is not what we had planned.  The Bearcat Sports Page.com  crew arrived to find an empty stadium and one player still doing interviews.  In this case we were lucky it was senior Torry Cornett.  We asked the Columbus native what if it is hard to get back after a week off and what the team will try to accomplish this week.

With snow on the way practice the next few days may be moved to an indoor facility away from campus.  As for off the field preparations for the Orange Bowl, according to Senior Associate Athletic Director Mike Waddell the school has sold 12,500 tickets for the January 1st game. The remaining 4,500 tickets will be available in Clifton until December 23.

Back To Practice

Since they hoisted the Big East Trophy after the Syracuse game the team has had a break from the practice field.   That does not mean that they have had a "break" it just means they haven't been practicing.   Studying and passing their finals was the main focus but they have also been working out and lifting.   Today they put the pads on to start getting ready for Virginia Tech.   Practice is scheduled today at Nippert, but an indoor facility is on hold as a back up for bad weather.  Bearcat Sports page.com will hopefully be there and plans on bringing you coverage through out the week.

Today's Graduates

Today was graduation day at UC and 6 football players received their diplomas.  Here are todays graduates:

Trevor Canfield   Criminal Justice

Khalil El-Amin    Marketing

Delbert Ferguson   Finance

Adam Hoppel   Marketing

Kevin Huber  Business

Ryan Manalac   Finance

DeAngelo Smith   Criminal Justice

We posted a story earlier on graduation rates, it was positive news.  Xavier just beat UC in basketball, don't  hang your head.  The administration and coaches are getting things done right in all sports.

Look at the list above and take pride in the fact that several leaders of the Orange Bowl bound Bearcats are playing on January 1st with diplomas.  That is a sample of what Mike Thomas has brought to UC with the Catapult program, so far it seems to be working just fine!  Congrats to the student athletes that got diplomas today..... congrats to the support team that was there when they needed it.

Huber, Another Honor

Bearcat punter, and Cincinnati native, Kevin Huber was given another All- American honor today.  This one was handed down by Football Writers Association.  Huber received the same honor last year.

Graduation Rates

Being in a BCS Bowl game brings instant increased press coverage, both good and bad.  Instead of "Joe the Plumber" it's "Joe the Bearcat" for the national news and it's coverage of the teams.  With no one on the practice field  and the games still weeks away, what do the writers write about?  A reporter from the Boston Globe has an article poking fun at graduation rates for the BCS and bowl bound teams.  According to his article, Oklahoma has a graduation rate of just 46%.  He also points out, according to his research, that Ohio State, Texas, Alabama, and Utah are all below 50% with their graduation rate of black student athletes.   UC gets some great publicity in this article when he shows UC gradation numbers for black student athletes at 68% and white student athletes at 81%.   It's nice to know that UC is able to shine when the biggest spotlight ever is shining directly on them.   This is a credit to the coaches, the administration and Mike Thomas for his leadership in this area.

Here is a link to the article:  Click here.

Never Fear, Underdog is here!

The Bearcats will be the underdog tonight at Fifth Third Arena.  Depending on where you look Xavier is favored by 2 or 3 points.  On his radio show on WLW Thursday night Coach Cronin said his team responds well to the underdog role. However, he also said he thought they didn't play with the "underdog mentality" in Las Vegas against Florida State.  Then he went on to say that they regained it last Saturday against UAB even though they were favored by three points.

CROSSTOWN GAME DAY !!!!

The Skyline Chili Crosstown Shootout is just hours away.  This game is all about the upsets with the underdog always putting up a good fight.  However, part of that magic is the underdog appreciating the magnitude of the game.  Deonta Vaughn is the only guy on this team that has beaten Xavier.    It's a young team but Coach Mick Cronin had his "traditional" pre-game meeting at his house last night to  teach he young guys what it's all about.

So far that Montgomery Inn diner has worked,  Mick is 1 and 1 with last years game being very close despite Xavier being ranked and playing at home.

Doobie Brothers at Halftime

It has just been announced that the half time show for the Orange bowl will feature The Doobie Brothers.    In other musical Orange Bowl news....Kevin Rudolf will be the headliner at the Orange Bowl Tailgate Party outside of Dolphin Stadium.  The Budweiser tailgate party starts at 11:30.  UC will not have a separate tailgate party and plans on setting up a headquarters inside the Budweiser party.   Cost of the party is $20

For info on the Doobie Brothers:   Click here.

For info on Kevin Rudolph:  Click here.

Ticket Update

At the start of the day the number of tickets sold for the Fed Ex Orange Bowl was approaching 10,000.  Today was the last day for "priority tickets".   Meaning,  that up until today UCAT members could call for tickets and get their tickets according to the point system.  After today the priority system is over,  so a large number of calls came into the ticket office.

As for Xavier tickets Saturday night for the Skyline Chili

 Crosstown Shootout,  it is nearing a sell out.  

They Need Each Other

Most of the attention this week has surrounded the football team.  A strange circumstance considering the Skyline Chili Crosstown Shoot Out is Saturday night.    UC is establishing themselves on the national stage with football, and basketball may not be to far away from returning to that stage as well.  Ohio State, Florida, and Texas are a few programs that have achieved the "double power play", UC could be crashing the party soon?

To our knowledge, UC has never had both football and basketball ranked in the top 25 at the same time.

Barwin Team MVP

As national honors continue to flow in for several Bearcat football players, some of the most precious hardware was handed out Thursday night on campus.  The team held their annual awards banquet in Great Hall inside the Tangeman University Center.    Here are a few of the the winners.  Notice that on a few awards, like special teams player of the year, the guy that was recognized by the conference, didn't win win the teams award.

Newcomer:  Dominique Battle

Special Teams:  Brandon Underwood

Community Service: Mardy Gilyard

Athletic/Academic Excellence:  Ryan Manalac

Most Valuable Player:  Connor Barwin

Your Social Calendar Update

For those heading to Miami here is a quick update on events.

Alumni Brunch:  January 1st at the Hyatt Regency Downtown.  This is not free and more details will be available Monday.

Tailgate Party:  The UC tailgate party will be inside the Official Budweiser Orange Bowl Tailgate Party. This is the big "festival" style party that will include bands, food, beverage, and vendors.  It was pointless for UC to try and compete with this huge event so there will be a "UC Section" there. 

New Years Eve:  There will be no sponsored UC News Years Eve Party.  Again, the competition is to good not to  just join.  the Alumni Association will publish a list of New Years Eve parties along South Beach for everyone to investigate.

Pep Rally: A pep rally is being worked on.  no details yet.

UC Foundation and UCAT Events:  There will be separate events sponsored by these groups and they will be invitation only.

The Alumni Association and the Athletic Department have been working very hard to make this an unforgettable experience.  Their hard work should be commended.  A complete list of events and happenings will be finalized by Monday.  Bearcat Sports Page.com will have a link to where that valuable info will be residing.

This is all the info that is available right now any further questions will be answered Monday.  A call to the Alumni Association, UCATS, Provident Travel....they will all have only the information above. Hopefully this will help you and save some time wasted being on hold because these people are very busy finalizing the details.

"Lou Banks Got Fouled !"

It's crosstown week, that means it's time for some crosstown talk.  Bearcat Sports Page.com stopped by after practice this week and spoke to head coach Mick Cronin and a few players about the big game this Saturday.

How important is home field advantage in a game like this?

Home court advantage means fans coming to the games.  All the games.

 

This is always a close game.   It's driveway ball.

What previous match ups stick out over the years?

For those that think the passion of this game doesn't exist all they have to do is listen to that comment from Coach Cronin.    On his radio show last night from the Montgomery Inn on WLW, Coach Cronin said that he has been getting phone calls and test messages from several Bearcat Alumni.  Those that have reached out include Kenyon Martin, Jason Maxiell, Bobby Brannen and many more.

We will have more comments from Coach Cronin and some of the players tomorrow.

Honors Keep Rolling In

Along with having Coach of the Year and Special Team Player of the Year the UC Bearcats placed 9 members on the all conference teams.

1st Team Selections:

Connon Barwin  DE

Mardy Gilyard  WR/KR

Kevin Huber  P

Mike Mickens  DB

Brandon Underwood  S

2nd Team Selections:

Terrill Byrd   DT

Trevor Canfield  OG

Dominick Goodman  WR

Tony Pike  QB

Mike Mickens was a unanimous choice.  Mardy Gilyard was selected for two positions, wide receiver and kick returner.  Congratulations to these student athletes.   Bearcat Sports page.com has had the pleasure of interviewing all of the above players through out the year and can say that they are all nice respectful young men, and have been a pleasure to work with.

2 FOR 2

For the second year in a row Brian Kelly brought home the Big East Coach of the Year honor. In only his second year at UC, and in the conference he is 2 for two becoming the first coach to win back to back honors since Miami's Larry Coker won in 2001-2002. Again, just like last year, the team also has the conferences best special teams player. Last year it was punter Kevin Huber, this year the honor goes to Mardy Gilyard. The speedy receiver returned two kick offs for touchdowns this year along with a 28 yard average. This should be the first of many honors this coach and his team will receive this year.

Bearcat Day in Hamilton County

As part of their meeting this morning the Hamilton County Commission recognized the UC football team for their accomplishments this season. Commission President Todd Portune gave Brian Kelly a bowl of oranges and a proclamation declaring it UC Bearcat Football Team day all across the county.

The way these student athletes conduct themselves away from the field is a tremendous accomplishment regardless of what bowl game they play in. The entire tri-state area should be proud of these fine young men that represent them each time they put on a jersey with "Cincinnati" across the front. Most of the players, including Coach Kelly are not from the Cincinnati area. However, they have all become Cincinnatians and play for the pride of the city as well as the University.

In Novermber the team received a similar recognition from Cincinnati Mayor, Mark Mallory, and city council.

Crosstown Talk

Last spring the UC Alumni Association brought in a new executive director, former Bearcat Basketball great Myron Hughes.  Yesterday we talked to Myron about the excitement that the Orange Bowl has brought to campus.  However, there is a another big game that will be played much sooner and closer.  The Skyline Chili Crosstown Shootout is this Saturday and Myron likes the Bearcat's chances of upsetting the #10 Muskies.

Myron was a great player for the Bearcats during some tough times.  Bearcat Sports Page.com will have plenty more coverage leading up to the big game.

Hey, It's Crosstown Time!

When is the last time the Skyline Chili Crosstown Shootout was overshadowed by football? For a few days football needs to be put on the back burner and the focus needs to turn to basketball. Xavier will be invading Fifth Third Arena as a top 10 team and there are still tickets remaining. Show this Bearcat team the support they deserve. Remember back when UC was the ranked team that lost the shootout?

It May Be A Rumor

There are several rumors floating around about the Orange Bowl Trip that may not be true. First off there are still tickets remaining. Not all of the allotment has been sold. The tickets are not in Cincinnati yet so they can't hand them out.
They can't tell you where you will be sitting. All that's know right now is that the lower section tickets start around mid field and go through the end zone. The upper level tickets are directly above and follow the same pattern.
UCAT members are already on a priority list, if you call now or on Thursday you will get the same tickets according to where you are on the list.
Not all parties and tailgates are associated with UC. A list will be coming out Friday or Monday of all events.
A group from UC is in Miami today scouting out the area for parties, tailgates, pep rallies, and other gatherings. When they return the picture will be much clearer.
Check the website for information before you pick up the phone.
Athletic Department: Click Here
Alumni Association: Click Here

It's a Sleeping Giant

The Orange Bowl countdown now stands at 23 days and counting. If a person drove past campus this week they would have no idea that this is the most exciting week in UC history. However, looks can be deceiving. It may look quiet.....but it isn't.

The only quiet place in Varsity Village may be the locker room. The players are taking finals and have off until next Monday, that's when their preparation for the Orange Bowl starts on the field. As for those looking for Orange Bowl gear you can visit Dubois Bookstore at their locationon Calhoun Street near campus or visit them on line: Click Here.

Even Matchup

It looks like the best match up in the BCS games, according to the odds makers, is the Orange Bowl:
Sugar: Alabama 11 point favorite
Rose: USC 10 point favorite
Fiesta: Texas 8 point favorite
BCS Title: Oklahoma 1.5 point favorite
Orange: No favorite, even game
The Vegas odds makers also see the strength of both teams as defense with the combined point totals of both teams at just 40.

The Party Just Started!

NEWS FLASH: UC OFF TO ORANGE BOWL

News flash #2: It's December and it should be cold. Not that it was a secret but as far as drama, there was very little Sunday night at Fifth Third area as far as where the Bearcats would be celebrating New Years Eve. Okay...the drama was lacking but excitement certainly filled the void. Who cared? UC was off to a BCS bowl game, orange or sugar. Last year it was pizza, this year it's a South Beach diet.

We are sure the local news gave you plenty of player and coach interview segments, here at Bearcat Sports Page.com we give you more. For example Brian Kelly's "pre selection" speech to the fans that gathered on a cold Sunday night at Fifth Third Arena.

As far as player interviews, we turned a player into the interviewer. Connor Barwin took the

microphone and talked to a couple of team mates, and his head coach.

We want to thank Connor for his help. He's been great to work with all season. On cold days after practice while all of the other guys are in the locker room, Connor is the last guy in. He's on the phone with a radio show or talking to the media. Where ever he goes in the NFL, he will be a media favorite from day one. Thanks to Connor, his team mates and Coach Kelly for giving us some time on this special and weary night. The team got back on campus at 2:00 today, and final exam week starts Monday.

UC BEATS XAVIER

For the second year in a row the UC Bearcat women's basketball team upset their crosstown rival, the Xavier Musketeers.  Xavier came into Fifth Third Arena with a #23 ranking and led by one at halftime with the lead growing to three with around five minutes left in the game.  Then the Bearcats went on an 11-0 run and never looked back.  Congratulations to head coach J. Kelly Hall and his team for a huge win.

Crosstown Today

The womens Skyline Chili Crosstown Shootout tips off today at 2:00 inside Fifth Third Arena. Earlier in the week the event was nearing a sellout. That would be the third sellout in a row. Last years UC upset the Muskies in the Cintas Center in Coach J. Kelly Hall's first year. Today Xavier comes in ranked #23, but just like we have found out in the men's version over the years....rankings mean nothing.

Today's game is also a celebration of women's athletics in Cincinnati. The gates open at 12:30 with fan giveaways and autograph sessions with current UC and Xavier female student athletes. Halftime will be an Olympic celebration that will include UC gold medalist Mary Wineberg. Tip off for the game is 2:00 This years crosstown shootout will be televised on the Fox Sports Network.

Big Island, Big Win

It didn't look good late in  the third quarter but Brian Kelly and his boys rallied and are bringing home a 29-24 win from Hawaii.   Bearcat Sports Page.com is about information, not commentary.  However, a bit of advise for those that DVR'd the game and are planning on watching it today, turn the sound down and play Christmas music.  The constant theme in the second half was how important this game was for UC, the Big East and the BCS bowl games.  Apparently a loss would have been a huge embarrassment for all parties concerned while providing vindication to the WAC Conference.  Whatever.  Remember the selection party tonight at Fifth Third Arena.  Doors open at 6:30 with the Fox broadcast starting at 8:00.

Great Season Over

The women's volleyball team was eliminated from the NCAA tournament last night in the second round.  After defeating Western Kentucky Friday night they moved on to take on the #9 seeded University of Illinois Fighting Illini.   The Bearcats lost in three close, hard fought sets 24-26, 20-25, and 22-25.

This ends what was a tremendous year for Coach Reed Sunahara and his squad.  The women's volleyball team became only the second team in school history to add a Big East Trophy to the display area in Lindner Hall.  Congratulations on a great year!  Bearcat Sports Page.com would like to thank Coach Sunahara, his team and sports information director John Berry for the cooperation they extended us each week with interviews and access to the team.

#9 Seed Up Next

Tonight at 8:00 the Bearcat volleyball team tries to advance further in the NCAA tournament.  It won't be an easy task, they take on the 9th seeded Illinois Fighting Illini in Campaign, Il.  Back in September UC lost to a Big Ten team when they played Minnesota in a tournament in Hawaii. Head Coach Reed Sunahara thinks his team learned about Big Ten competition on that trip, and they are are also a better team today than they were back in September.

Illinois played the same Minnesota team UC lost tow twice during the regular season and lost both times 2-3.  Game time is 8:00 tonight and it will be on "game tracker" found on the 

UC web Site.  

NCAA Win !!!!!

It was almost de ja vu all over again. Two weeks ago in the opening round of the Big East Tournament UC led Pitt 2 sets to 0 and lost the next three, ending their tournament run on the first day. Earlier this evening UC was up on Western Kentucky 2 sets to 0. Two decisive wins, 25-13 and 25-19. Then the dropped the next two, 21-25 and 18-25 setting up the fifth and final set. This time UC wasn't ready to head home, they won the fifth set 15-10 and will advance to the second round. Stephanie Neimer led UC with 22 kills and Jessie Nevitt had 11 blocks, we think. The NCAA site wasn't really sure who won. On their breakdown of scoring they show UC winning with the scores given earlier. Then on the bracket it shows WKY winning 3-2. The next opponent will be determined in the evening game between #9 Illinois and Milwaukee Wisconsin. That game will be Saturday night at 8:00. Check www.gobearcats.com for a game tracker to follow the action live!

SHOW YOUR STUFF

Wondering where to get Big East Championship gear....the campus bookstore and DuBois Bookstore both have some awesome stuff. Hats, sweatshirts, golf shirts, and t-shirts.

Here is what they have at the campus book store: two different style short sleeve t-shirts, both men's and women's red golf shirts and one style of hat.

Here is a sample of the selection at DuBois Bookstore on Calhoun. They Have a different style t-shirt both in short and long sleeve, they also have a hooded sweatshirt and they have the black Adidas hats like the team was wearing Saturday.

Both have the t-shirts with the logo shown above with the campus bookstore. Only DuBois has sweatshirts, and they are the only ones with the logo above using the "cat eyes". Both have merchandise available to be ordered on line. Each website also gives great pictures of what they have.

UC Bookstore: http://www.bkstr.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StoreCatalogDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=13705&catalogId=10001

DuBois Book Store: http://www.duboisbookstore.com/ or http://www.bearcatgear.com/

As for Bowl gear....the DuBois boys said they will have stuff hot off the presses some time Monday afternoon. Bearcat Sports Page will let you know when the truck arrives.

Business Trip, With Sun

No that's not Tony Pike catching a wave off of Waikiki Beach, Craig Carey...maybe. The Cats landed in Hawaii yesterday but this is no vacation. It's a business trip in a nice place.

Tuesday's press conference was dominated with talk about stadium expansion and Coach Kelly signing a contract in blood with the media that he would never leave. However, there was some talk about football and here are some segments from that side of Tuesday.

First off Hawaii, last year a BCS Bowl team but this year they have a new coach. The biggest challenge for UC is the travel and the environment.

After a month of "must win games" how does the team get hyped up for a game that on paper means nothing? Don't tell them that, this game has tremendous meaning. Does this team still have goals left on the chalkboard from summer training camp at Camp Higher Ground in Harrison?

Yes, the team wants to win and they are focused. But remember this is Hawaii, how many of us got to see this Pacific Paradise when we were 19 or 20 years old?

Back in 2003 the Bearcat's dream trip to Hawaii turned out to be a nightmare. A 20-19 loss was accompanied by penalty flags and questionable calls that ended in a bench clearing brawl. Enquirer writer Bill Koch captured the memory of that trip well in his article Thursday. Coach Kelly says that was in the past, and it helps that Big East officials will be calling the game. Pay attention to the end of the clip when he jokes about the officials being on the same flight.

We want to thank Coach Kelly and DeAngelo Smith for talking with us Tuesday. Remember the game is late on Saturday, 11:30PM on ESPN2. The team arrives back in town at 2:00 Sunday afternoon then has the Selection Celebration at 8:00. After that they hit the books....finals next week. How many guys took books to Hawaii to get ahead? They are off until Dec 15th when they start practicing for the bowl.