2018 Preview UCLA & USC

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August 30, 2018

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: NOV 18 UCLA at USC — UCLA Bruins vs USC Trojans on November 18, 2017 (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)

PAC-12 Preview Part IV

UCLA

The UCLA Bruins football team is moving at whole new speed, ‘Kelly Fast’ behind their new coach Chip Kelly. After a few season in the NFL Kelly will look to dawn the New Look Bruins this season along with their new apparel sponsor Under Armour.

The bar is set but with little media coverage no one know what to expect from this UCLA team and the spread offense.

Michigan transfer Wilton Speight will be starting quarterback for the opening game with Theo Howard along with Christian Pabico as targets. Tight end Caleb Wilson looks to be back at 100% back from his injury to be a security blanket for the offense.

The depth chart has moved around little bit after Kelly suspended 6 players just before the season start for 1-3 games. Proposed starting running back Soso Jamabo and converted center Boss Tagaloa were among those suspend.

Adarius Pickett celebrates. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

The defense who returns six starters and most importantly their field general who came back for his senior season Adarius Pickett. The secondary being coached by veteran Paul Rhoads. Corner Darnay Holmes will be back after an impressive true freshman campaign, and looks to primed to contribute as kick return specialist again.

A noticeable change off the field should pay off well on the field, is the change in post game protein shakes and meal plans. Each player has a special drink for what there body type or goal. Then there’s chef who cooks meals for them to eat after practice and the ability to take a meal home.

Prediction 7-5

USC Trojans Team.(Photo by Ariawna Talton/ fi360 News)

USC

The USC Trojans are looking climb back to the top of college football ranks. Even though they have been on top of PAC-12 with Washington they have been able to compete with the elite.

Head coach Clay Helton has took notice that the Trojans need to build the interior line on both sides of the ball. This season the depth up front should allow for them to truly battle when the showcase games.

Reclassfield true Freshman JT Daniels will be only the second true freshman to start for the Trojans. Helton spoke to the healthy competition before naming the starter. Daniels separated himself during his highlighted scrimmages and big plays.

JT Daniels at ESPYs holding his Gatorade Player of Year Award. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

The defense who returns seven starters in the secondary and backers. Cameron Smith at middle linebacker will control the team and look to top his 118 tackles last season.

The senior leadership on this team should payoff in big close games. Ajene Harris who plays nickelback has continued to grow ever year as get ready for the next level.

Due to alternating schedule the Trojans can only face Washington or Oregon in the PAC-12 champions this season.

With the signing of 18 new players this season the Trojans will call on a few to step up now. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown will look to find a way on the field among a talented group. His innate ability to know where Daniels will throw the ball will be a key.

Prediction 10-3

2018 Preview Arizona & Arizona State

By

Jevone Moore

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August 29, 2018

NCAA Football 2017: Arizona Wildcats vs Arizona State Sun Devils NOV 25 — NCAA Football 2017 Battle during Arizona Wildcats vs Arizona State Sun Devils. (Photo by Eric D. Townsend / fi360 News)

PAC-12 Preview Part III

Arizona

The Arizona Wildcats will have a brand new look with new head coach Kevin Sumlin coming over from the SEC. The Wildcats are one of three teams in the PAC-12 who have 17 returning starters to hit the ground running.

Quarterback Khalil Tate has already broke onto the national scene having a breakout game rushing for 327 yards and threw for 154 yards with 5 touchdowns. His new coach who broke in ‘Johnny Football’ at A&M will be the right coach to showcase the Heisman hopefully tour in 2018.

Tate receiving core is back but they will need better production from them all not just Bryce Wolma the tight end. Senior Shun Brown led them last season with only six touchdowns receiving.

The offensive line only returns center Nathan Eldridge to be their signal call for the defensive fronts.

This young defense had the opportunity to grow up on the field in 2017, so after this offseason training program who knows what the nine returners will take them. In most games the offense outscored their opponents to win.

The secondary all have experience now and being coach by hands on DB coach in Demetrice Martin aka ‘coach Meat’. Jace Whittaker a corner who loves to be physical and help in the run.

The state of Arizona is up for grabs this year.

Prediction 9-3

Arizona State

The Arizona State Sun Devils will be mentored and coached by a walking legend in Herm Edwards. He has command of the room the moment he walks in the door, and they all know, ‘You play to win the game!’

Quarterback Manny Wilkins will be learning his fourth offense in his college career. One thing that will be spot on is his amazing chemistry with wide reciever N’Keal Harry who lead the team with 1,142 yards along with 8 touchdowns.

There’s not one side of the ball that stands out over the other, so Edwards will really need to inspire his team to greatness

They have four returners on defense that has the two cornerbacks as the cornerstone to defend the pass. Chase Lucas had two interceptions after being thrown into the fire as a true freshman last season.

Up front Renell Wren at nose has next level potential that will need to be displayed in his last campaign. There will be plenty of opportunity for new stars to emerge on the defense. Most say look out for the sophomore Shannon Forman to be deadly coming off the edge.

Prediction 6-6

2018 Oregon & Oregon State

By

Jevone Moore

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August 28, 2018

11262017 OSU vs UO 01 — EUGENE, OR - November 25: #21 Oregon RB Royce Freeman is tackled by #32 Oregon State ILB Jonathan Willis and #49 Oregon State ILB Andrzej Hughes-Murray during a game between the Oregon Ducks and Oregon State Beavers in Eugene, OR. Oregon. Final Score Oregon 69 Oregon State 10. (Photo by Ben Ludeman / fi360 news).

EUGENE, OR – #10 Oregon QB Justin Herbert scores a rushing TD. (Photo by Ben Ludeman / fi360 news).

PAC-12 Preview Part II

Oregon Ducks

The Oregon Ducks have not lost their swag over the last few season despite trying to find their mojo. If I had a crystal ball I would say the Ducks can hit the ground running with first three opponents not being major powerhouses.

First year head coach Mario Cristobal has had the opportunity to go through spring ball and fall camp to have his team ready to play. Their conference schedule sets up well for them playing PAC-12 opener at home verse Stanford, and also hosting Washington, UCLA, & ASU at home.

Justin Herbert will return as the Ducks signal caller with his strong arm and ability to scramble when needed. The offense returns seven starters, the most important three will be the interior line to slow down pressure.

The defense will run the same scheme for the second year lined up in 3-4 to allow the team to keep up with the fast paced PAC-12 offensives. The outside linebackers La’Mar Winston and Justin Hollins are two of the key seven returning starters for this unit. Not to be forgotten in captain defensive MVP at inside backer Troy Dye to fill the A & B gaps.

At the eleventh hour Oregon picked up a late signee 6-5 185 WR/DB Bryan Addison from Serra High School after UCLA gave him full release. We will have to wait and see how big was this late addition. The other 23 incoming freshman will have an opportunity to compete. Jalen Hall was also big pick up that didn’t leave with the coaching change.

Prediction 7-5

Oregon State

The Oregon State Beavers bring home a proven winner to steer this program in the right direction. New head coach Jonathan Smith who knows how to win as player and coach. There is something special when a star comes home.

The Beavers seem to always find star power at the quarterback position, this season Jake Luton will run this pro style offense. With his 6’7 frame and strong arm returning from spine injury should be breeze.

The wide receivers will be the most experienced group out of the seven returning starters to assist Luton. Tightend Noah Togiai who caught 34 passes last year and played big at the point of attack.

The defense will need to step up this season with only five returning starters. Insiderback Jonathan Willis will be called upon to lead this team and help get the offense back on the field. As the last line of defense will be returning safeties Jalen Moore & David Morris who both were tied with 75 tackles a piece.

This year recruits 26 in all will be great additions to fill few holes Smith has to fill this opening season. Right out the gate the whole team will travel to Ohio State for the 2018 opening kickoff. This game will give the Beavers the opportunity to set the tone for the year and show that they are OSU.

Prediction 4-8

2018 Preview West Virginia University

By

Jevone Moore

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August 27, 2018

BIG12 Preview

Receiver David Sills (#13) and Quarterback Will Grier (#7) walking off the field. (Photo by Ben Queen-)

West Virginia University

West Virginia University Mountaineers are anticipating big things in 2018. All American wide receiver David Sills will be a main target for returning quarterback Will Grier.

These two seniors will get to show off their skills in Charlotte opening up against Tennessee. The country will see Sills who led the nation with 18 touchdowns catches last season.

This offense returns seven starters this season and the unsung heroes up front all back except right guard Isaiah Hardy will move into the lineup. Grier last season threw for 3,490 yards with 34 touchdowns.

On the defense side of the ball with only four returning starters they will need a big push from the front 6. They have run 3-3-5 defense under head coach Dana Holgorsen entering this eighth year at the helm.

Safety Kenny Robinson who led the team with three interceptions last season will look to add the leadership this defense will need.

If this team can outscore it’s opponent big and earlier, this will help this young defense grow as the season gets tough on the back end.

Prediction 8-4

Long Beach Poly Safety Kejuan Markham shuts down air traffic

By

Jevone Moore

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August 24, 2018

Dejuan Markham returning one of his three pick six’s in same game for Long Beach Poly. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Long Beach, CA – The Long Beach Airport just minutes away hired a new air traffic controller Friday night for the Long Beach Poly Jackrabbits name Kejuan Markham.

I have never seen this happen in a game in my 35 plus years watching football, a PICKSIX Hat trick. Markham intercepted Narbonne QB’s three times returning each one for a touchdown ending with 95 yard to end the game with a 26-3 victory. He finished with 154 return yards for 18 points.

“I knew I had to just make plays and win this game.” said Markham

The game was defensive battle both teams still trying to find their identity early in this 2018 football season. At the half Narbonne had the only points in game leading 3-0 in this grudge match.

LB Poly first year head coach Stephen Barbee was sure glad his defense showed up today to score all four touchdown on the night.

“Our defense answered the call,” said Barbee, “Good teams find ways to win.”

The team other touchdown came on a scoop and score by Bryson Parham in 3rd quarter to push the lead 13-3 and all the momentum.

Keon Markham pulling down a big catch over Narbonne. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Narbonne just could not get thing going on offense but their were some highlights from the defense. The was not a shortage of big hits and both team punters got some work in.

Poly now moves to 2-0 for the season, and Narbonne with a slow start 0-2 to start the season.

Venice wide receiver Chad Johnson (18) is knocked out of bounds during a non-conference football game at Venice High School on Friday, August 24, 2018 in Los Angeles. Venice won 35-30. (Michael Yanow / fi360 News)

Venice 35 – Harvard Westlake 30

In his first home game in over a year after sitting out of all last year, Venice Junior quarterback Luca Diamont, lead the Gondoliers down the field for a game winning touchdown against the Harvard-Westlake Wolverines defense.

Venice wide receiver Makai Cope (3) catches the ball for a touchdown on the first play of the game during a non-conference football game at Venice High School on Friday, August 24, 2018 in Los Angeles. Venice won 35-30. (Michael Yanow / fi360 News)

Diamont finished with four touchdown in the 35-30 victory with the game winning throw to to Chad Johnson Jr.

Harvard-Westlake quarterback Jameson Wang (8) dives towards the goalie but is marked at the two-yard line during a non-conference football game at Venice High School on Friday, August 24, 2018 in Los Angeles. Wang fumbled on the play and Venice recovered. Venice won 35-30. (Michael Yanow / fi360 News)

Venice quarterback Luca Diamont (7) celebrates during a non-conference football game at Venice High School on Friday, August 24, 2018 in Los Angeles. Venice won 35-30. (Michael Yanow / fi360 News)

2018 Preview TCU Horned Frogs & SMU Mustangs

By

Jevone Moore

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August 23, 2018

BIG 12 Preview

TCU Horned Frogs

TCU is ready for someone to step up and make plays for the Horned Frogs. They have only nine returning starters from last year 11 win season. TCU is glad that they had a few extra bowl practices to get the team more reps for this coming season.

Coach Gary Patterson entering his 17th season at the helm knows how to get his teams ready for the ups and downs playing in high scoring BIG12.

This team is rebuilding it’s offensive line and if they gel as new unit fast, the young skill talent shine. Sophomore QB Shawn Robinson will be tasked to live up to four-star recruiting rating. Behind him Darius Anderson at running back will look to top his eight touchdown campaign last season.

The Defensive sticking with their 4-2-5 alignment and has Niko Small will be back at Free Safety after 23 starts. They will need a big year from his counterpart Innis Gaines at Strong Safety who counted on to step in the box for run support.

The incoming class of 22 recruits has 13 plays from the state of Texas. Picking up top talent from their backyard has been a key to Patterson consistent success. Offensive tackle Anthony Mckinney 6’8, 330 and Offensive lineman Kris Dike 6’6, 290 have great size as freshman. All coaches know you can’t coach size you either have it or you don’t, the Frogs have it.

Prediction 10-2

American Preview

SMU Mustangs

The SMU Mustangs are getting the crowds fired up at Ford Stadium after a winning season last year and playing in Frisco Bowl.

Leading the way will be new head coach Sonny Dykes who is known for his offensive playbook. He will pouring into returning starting QB Ben Hicks to set up the running game with his arm.

The Mustangs return there whole defensive secondary that will boast well for their new 4-3-4 look. The secondary will have better schemes this year under new defensive coordinator Kevin Kane. Look for senior Jordan Wyatt to make big plays in his farewell season after leading the team with four interceptions last year.

From the new recruits wide receiver Treveon Johnson who chose to stay in Texas will be pushed to make an impact this year. The Mustangs signed 19 new players with five coming from the JUCO.

The American Conference better get ready for the Mustangs who will look to move up in the West.

Prediction 8-4

2018 Preview San Diego State

By

Jevone Moore

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August 21, 2018

SPORTS: NCAA Football 2016:25 Las Vegas Bowl: Houston vs San Diego State DEC 17 — Coach Rocky Long San Diego State Aztecs at Sam Boyd Stadium on December 17, 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore

Quarterback Christian Chapman when they have to burn a timeout on December 17, 2016. (Credit: Jevone Moore)

Mountain West Preview

San Diego State Aztecs

The San Diego State Aztecs coming off 10 win season a year ago looks to be on the top of the Mountain West Conference.

Most are use to a dominate rushing attack for the Aztecs, but don’t sleep on senior quarterback Christian Chapman who will be three year starter. He has thrown for 35 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions.

Running Back Juwan Washington will have big shoes to fill from the last two years of stella backs that broke records and lead the nation in yards. As a reserve Washington was able to carve out 759 yards as a backup.

Head coach Rocky Long will have 12 starters back to add some leadership and experience for this 2018 campaign. Among the returners are four of five hogs up front on the offensive line.

They will open up at Stanford this season who they beat last year for one of their signature wins.

Kobe Smith Serra Cavs 2017 (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

Long was able to pull in a good recruiting class during the signing period signing 24 players with 14 of them right here from the State of California. Among the 11 offensive signees is wide receiver Kobe Smith of Serra HS to stretch the defense or just Moss’d them up top.

From the defense expect a team that flies to ball with returning linebacker Ronley Lakalaka who lead the team last year with 82 tackles. If teams dare to go air it out safety Tariq Thompson will be ready coming off a freshman year where he lead the team with five interceptions.

Ronley Lakalaka #39 San Diego State Aztecs at Sam Boyd Stadium on December 17, 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Prediction 9-3

Sparks win playoff opener and eliminate the defending champs

By

Eric Ramos

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August 21, 2018

Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles Sparks held a three-point lead with 1:36 left in the fourth quarter when point guard Chelsea Gray nailed a pull-up jumper to extend the lead, 70-65.

Nneka Ogwumike hit three free throws in the final minute to seal the Sparks 75-68 win over Minnesota and eliminate the defending champions from the playoffs Tuesday night at the Staples Center.

Los Angeles advanced to the second round of the WNBA playoffs and will face the third-seeded Washington Mystics on Thursday in Washington D.C.

Sparks defense during the Minnesota Lynx vs Los Angeles Sparks game at Staples Center in Los Angeles, Ca on August 21, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)

“Every time we play Minnesota, games are tight and competitive,” Sparks head coach Brian Agler said. “I’m just happy we made some plays. We made a really good surge in the second quarter but they battled back.”

After a tight first quarter, the Sparks erased an 11-point lead and went on a 13-2 run to tie it at 34. Gray and Ogwumike combined for 23 points in the second quarter and the Sparks took a 40-37 lead into halftime.

“We were down 11 and Nneka was like, no this stops now,” Gray, who finished with 26 points, said. “I think that’s what we needed; that energy to push forward. We just needed to push to another level.”

Nneka Ogumike going to the hole during the Minnesota Lynx vs Los Angeles Sparks game at Staples Center in Los Angeles, Ca on August 21, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)

Gray and Riquna Williams caught fire from beyond the arc in the third quarter, draining four consecutive three-pointers to fuel a 14-4 run.

“Making plays and taking care of the ball,” Ogwumike said. “We were able to do that in the stretch. We had a few lapses but we maintained our composure.”

Ogwumike scored 19 points while Williams added 17 points. Candace Parker struggled and was held to two points. Agler said Parker wasn’t feeling well tonight and was suffering from a stomach flu.

Minnesota’s Lindsay Whalen, who is retiring, finished with nine points, six rebounds and five assists.

Chelsea Gray splitting the defense during the Minnesota Lynx vs Los Angeles Sparks game at Staples Center in Los Angeles, Ca on August 21, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)

The Sparks will use Wednesday to travel and prepare to take on the Mystics in the second round. Agler said they will meet, watch film and talk then get into a game day routine on Thursday.

“When we have one day betweens games and travel like this, it’s just as important to do everything you can to be rested,” Agler said. “You can prep all day long but if you’re not rested, you’re not going to be able to execute.”

2018 Preview Washington Huskies & Washington State

By

Jevone Moore

-

August 21, 2018

PAC-12 Preview Part I

Washington Huskies

2017 Fiesta Bowl: Jake Browning (3) by Jevone Moore

Washington was picked to be No 1 team in the PAC-12 according to preseason poll by west coast media. The Huskies coming off 10 win season in 2017 and a Fiesta Bowl appearance.

Four year starter Jake Browning will have the luxury of having four offensive lineman upfront to protect him. Then running back Myles Gaskin who gained over 1,300+ yards the last three seasons.

This offensive firepower is a key reason the PAC-12 media has picked the Huskies.

Head Coach Chris Peterson now entering his fifth season at the helm will have his team ready for their first opening season test in Atlanta. They will play in Chick fil A kickoff verse Auburn.

The Huskies returns eight starters on defense with the defensive backfield intact make opposing QB’s make tough decisions.

They will play the Apple Cup in Pullman this year, and travel to Utah, UCLA, Oregon, and Cal.

Chris Petersen during the PAC-12 Football Media Day 2018. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

The future of the Huskies looks bright with a top 15 recruiting class signing a good mix of skill and lineman.

Prediction 10-2

Washington State Cougars

Washington State Cougars will be fighting to find coach Mike Leach identity on the field. The offense only returns three starters and no QB’s with an FBS snaps. Leach is known for his air attacks, but these will be the season he will have to lean on the seven returning defensive stars.

The Cougars last year finished with 9-4 record making Leach look good. They had quality wins over USC, Stanford, and Utah that took them to a Holiday Bowl appearance.

This opportunistic defense who back seven will be ready for the high flying PAC-12 scheme. The change in coaches of the defensive side will get little time to get use to.

Coach Mike Leach during the PAC-12 Football Media Day 2018. Live at Ray Dolby Ballroom at the Hollywood and Highland Entertainment Center in Los Angeles, Ca. on July 25, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

They signed 25 players for the 2018 football season. Running back Max Borghi was a hugh last day signee that you could say the snatched from Stanford.

So we’re a college town. The other thing is 365 days a year, it’s the Cougs,” said Leach, “They’ll remember a game you played the rest of your life.”

These are a few big selling points on Pullman but this year will be an uphill battle in 2018.

Prediction 5-7