unnamedplayer:
You’re indicting Texas with the same argument that Texas used to get Cal out of the Rose Bowl - that is, you’re using their last game as an example for an argument that could be applied to every team vying for the bowl spot (a bad game that results in a win is still an indictment of the team’s quality).
Well, there’s a few things to say about that. First, I do weight the final game of the season a little bit. Second, there’s a qualitative difference between very nearly losing a game (Texas 2009) and not dominating it enough (Cal 2004). Third, I have no qualms using an intellectually dishonest argument to indict Texas, especially if it’s a matter of hitting them with their own shit.
To me, Texas’ last game is as relevant as TCU’s 3rd or 5th games.
This is what I meant by “their close wins weren’t as close as they look.” In TCU’s 5th game, against Air Force, they lead by 10 for almost all of the 4th quarter - AF scored a TD with 0:57 left. That wasn’t actually a close call. Their 3rd, vs. Clemson, was closer, but TCU didn’t need any last-minute miracles to win.
Which schedule was tougher?
I agree, Texas probably played a tougher slate. That matters - it’s why I don’t think Boise State should be in the Rose Bowl this year (they should be in the playoffs, but that’s a different discussion) - but it’s not everything, even when comparing two undefeated teams. The key thing about the schedules is that this year Texas’ schedule wasn’t as much harder than TCU’s as would normally be the case, so its not the usual slam dunk to say Texas’ perfect record is worth more. So then I think we have to look at how they won, too. In that area, I’m giving more weight to the fact that TCU was in danger of losing for only about 10 of 720 minutes of football this season (almost none in the 4th quarter), and less weight to the fact that Texas ran up the score a few times (including against 1 or 2 pretty good teams).
Look, I hate Texas as much as you…
Doubt it. I have regular hate plus shame-induced hate. I’ve cheered for them. Dark times, man. At least I wore a Michigan shirt under my Texas one when watching the 2004 Rose Bowl.
1 month ago
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