Optimism with an asterisk.
Folks on the inside and others close to U of L’s football program advise there’s a cautious optimism about the upcoming season. Despite an apparently speedier-than-expected recovery, Brian Brohm’s condition is the biggest possible gotcha. There’s anxiety over whether the marvelously talented Mario Urrutia is ready to become the go-to guy. And if he isn’t, who among the receiving core can and will step up? The hope for the other side of the ball is that the secondary will finally match its promise, something it’s done only in spurts during the program’s rejuvenation under Petrino.
Optimism with a sigh.
Cats fans, at least the ones I’m talking to, are realistic. The NCAA-imposed scholarship limits are still wreaking havoc. The Big Blue is green. Besides young, the team is thin. Even though six Cats made pre-season second- and third-team all-SEC, those with legit perspective understand that a .500 season would be better than boffo. Nonetheless, a UK win on Sept. 3 would cause a 180 for two squads.
Comparing Cats with Owls.
One thread on a UK message board compares Rich Brooks with our main man, Howard Schnellenberger. Seedy has no comment on that. But, speaking of the Sonneteer of the Sideline …
Scheduling up.
The Schnell’s Florida Atlantic Owls will journey to the Red Sea of Lincoln to battle the Nebraska Huskers in 2009.
Home cookin’.
Ate dinner the other night with my boys at Dinner Is Done on Ruckriegel Parkway in J-town. I’ll confirm its fried chicken is as good as any I’ve ever eaten. Speaking of home cooking, let’s hear it for the seven D-1 schools that play eight home games this season: Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Hawaii, Kansas State, LSU and Virginia Tech. Yet again, SEC schools lead the way when it comes to gilding the lily.
Willie and the hand jive.
Ne’er-do-well Miami linebacker Willie Williams is apparently transferring. Smart West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez said, “No way, Jose.” Let’s hope Bobby Petrino understands that some chances aren’t worth it. The kid was charged with a felony — one of 11 he’s faced — during a recruiting visit.
seedyk@culturemaven.com
This article appears in July 25, 2006.