Phil Steele's Surprise Teams

[GoSooners]

1.Penn St.
2.Rutgers
3.CAL
4.Notre Dame
5.Illinois
6.Pitt
7.Georgia
8.Miami
9.USF
10.Ga Tech
11.NCST

NON-BCS
Boise
Southern Miss
TCU
BYU
Troy

I know some of these might not be a surprise to many. But these are basically the teams that Steele thinks will be more highly ranked at the end of the year than they were at the start..

 

[Conan]

1.Penn St.
2.Rutgers
3.CAL
4.Notre Dame
5.Illinois
6.Pitt
7.Georgia
8.Miami
9.USF
10.Ga Tech
11.NCST

NON-BCS
Boise
Southern Miss
TCU
BYU
Troy

I know some of these might not be a surprise to many. But these are basically the teams that Steele thinks will be more highly ranked at the end of the year than they were at the start..

IMHO, those other lists of his in the other thread were just chuck full of surprises. And as far as his magazine sales is concerned, IMHO, it just goes to show you that what's inside means nothing compared to what a good marketing plan can do.

HELP!! Where's my BLUE RIBBON!!

 

[GoSooners]

IMHO, those other lists of his in the other thread were just chuck full of surprises. And as far as his magazine sales is concerned, IMHO, it just goes to show you that what's inside means nothing compared to what a good marketing plan can do.

HELP!! Where's my BLUE RIBBON!!

When it comes to the real meat and potatoes of analyzing football, the blue ribbon is the best, hands down. As far as Steele goes, the best part about it is the starters/returning lettermen info. I'm not sure about the early edition $25 he's charging when his rag will be released nationally in just a month. Seems a little high to me when we've still got 4 months until the season kickss off..Besides that, all of this prerelease info becomes common knowledge all over the net once it comes out. That's where I'm getting this info. Conan...Any idea when Blue Ribbon is released?

 

[russ1945]

Conan

Well I kind of thought you might somehow try to elevate yourself above Steele just like you do everyone else on here. I have gone full circle and finally come to the conclusion that you wear loafers because you in fact cannot tie your own shoes. Good grief man, if you don't agree with it than it is just flat wrong. I have already determined after trying to cut you as much slack as I could that you have issues man. I used to think that you had good intentions but your behavior lately is that you know things that nobody else knows. I guess you know that is a dangerous sign. Yes, you need a Pabst Blue Ribbon and a big dose of reality as a chaser. It is apparent that no periodical can change your point of view. You continually brought up the Arizona thing and after getting vidication from a reporter in an article posted by someone else and a video that shows a QB with a lot of talent and more potential that was also posted by someone else, you continue steadfastly refuse to concede that you might need to reassess much less change your mind. You just don't get it and it is crying shame man. You asked me if I was learning more than I would admit and you said my answer was not what you wanted to hear. Well the honest truth is that I have learned that you don't like to be crowded and you are defensive and inflexible. I said all along that Arizona would be rated ahead of Oregon and that was based on the numbers. They are there for all to see. I have nothing against Oregon but when Steele comes out and confirms it you want another periodical that is "better" than Steeles. Well buy them all till you find a shoe that fits, and you better stick with the loafers.

 

[SoonerBS]

IMHO, those other lists of his in the other thread were just chuck full of surprises. And as far as his magazine sales is concerned, IMHO, it just goes to show you that what's inside means nothing compared to what a good marketing plan can do.

HELP!! Where's my BLUE RIBBON!!

I agree Conan and GS, the Steele magazines are used for the sole purpose of obtaining info on the depth charts and past years' statistics. I use it to go through and obtain that info whenever I start developing my "play on games" look at teams and conferences. But, I analyze all the info and data I have stored up and read since the 2008 season to come to my own conclusions. I don't always agree with Phil the Thrill's opinions. Phil is more of a "numbers" guy than I am. I like to analyze personnel, schedules, situations, team strengths and weaknesses.

I appreciate his efforts, but I too buy the Blue Ribbon magazine along with Phil Steele's.

 

[russ1945]

I agree Conan and GS, the Steele magazines are used for the sole purpose of obtaining info on the depth charts and past years' statistics. I use it to go through and obtain that info whenever I start developing my "play on games" look at teams and conferences. But, I analyze all the info and data I have stored up and read since the 2008 season to come to my own conclusions. I don't always agree with Phil the Thrill's opinions. Phil is more of a "numbers" guy than I am. I like to analyze personnel, schedules, situations, team strengths and weaknesses.

I appreciate his efforts, but I too buy the Blue Ribbon magazine along with Phil Steele's.

Good grief, I am sure that "The Thrills" will sleep good tonight after that glorious commendation. Phil, like most everyone, is your Huckleberry. I am sure that after reading your post he will begin, for the very first time, to begin to analyze personnel, schedules, situations, team strengths and weaknesses. Thanks for the enlightenment. Once again you have expanded our minds and broadened our horizons. I heard Blue Ribbon is considering pulling their magazine since you endorsed it. It has been a "thrill" making this posting.

 

[ChrisParadise]

7.Georgia

im tellin ya - Georgia will win the SEC this year

 

[silver7]

Russ, You Trying To Be The #1 Asshole Here?

Sooner & Conan are both solid guys in re. CFB. Get a lot from Conan ea. yr. You'll get your attention, no need to give irrational insults. Steele is what he is, a source for info. That's all, his predictions are no better than most here. @ $9 on the newstand it's priced about right. I'd never pay 25 for it. And yes when does BR come out? Just a tad over 100 days to go. I can't remember when we didn't have an Aug. game on TV before this yr, unless I missed one. I have the 1st games Thurs. 9/3! BOL to all. Coach LT, GS & Pags Hi. BTW I have it from a reliable source (Mrs Coach) that he's up & ready for 2009, and the RB games are going to be killers.:toast:

 

[russ1945]

Sooner & Conan are both solid guys in re. CFB. Get a lot from Conan ea. yr. You'll get your attention, no need to give irrational insults. Steele is what he is, a source for info. That's all, his predictions are no better than most here. @ $9 on the newstand it's priced about right. I'd never pay 25 for it. And yes when does BR come out? Just a tad over 100 days to go. I can't remember when we didn't have an Aug. game on TV before this yr, unless I missed one. I have the 1st games Thurs. 9/3! BOL to all. Coach LT, GS & Pags Hi. BTW I have it from a reliable source (Mrs Coach) that he's up & ready for 2009, and the RB games are going to be killers.:toast:

I do go overboard sometimes but generally I have everyones best interests at heart. I kind of started from the view point that if I didn't have a copy already I would not want people posting it all over the site before I had a chance to peruse it. I am a numbers guy though, and I probably relate to Steele a little more that others. I am accumulating a spread sheet with a lot of data and I am adding in the ratings from Steele's Power Poll Top 120 and removing the strength of schedule ratings I was using previously. I assure you I am thinking of others, not just myself, when I urged GS to back off at least a little until everyone has a chance to get it. As far as Conan goes, we started going south when I mentioned a team out of his Pac 10, Arizona, and mentioned I had come up with some numbers that indicated that if they could replace Tuitama they might raise some eye brows this year. I have been defending that view ever since and some recent vindicatons that show there is at least some merit to my opinion he has continued to question my judgement. I actually like Conan but he is like a mother hen when it comes to the Pac 10. Sorry if I ruffled some feathers, but like you say, Sept 3rd the rubber meets the road. I hate to hear the word "asshole" associated with my name and I understand looking at the things from the outside looking in.
BS rubs me the wrong way and GS is just as defensive about the Big 12 as is Conan and the Pac 10. If I challenge them, God forbid, they dig in like a wolverine, oops that's the Big 10. My bad.

 

[YourAllAmerican]

russ, a friendly warning. If you keep attacking well-respected long-term posters, you're in danger of becoming just another person whose opinions are ignored because they've built a history of being purely confrontational rather than useful.

There is some great information and insight being shared here during the football season, but as things stand right now, you're not on very good terms with some of the best posters.

 

[russ1945]

russ, a friendly warning. If you keep attacking well-respected long-term posters, you're in danger of becoming just another person whose opinions are ignored because they've built a history of being purely confrontational rather than useful.

There is some great information and insight being shared here during the football season, but as things stand right now, you're not on very good terms with some of the best posters.

I have already addressed this on this and other threads. You are entitled to your opinion.

 

[goblue12]

Yeah, Illinois is clearly the darkhorse for the Big Ten Title. They've got the best offense in the conference with Juice Williams, Rejus Benn, and Florida transfer Jarred Fayson finally eligible. Their defense has some decent bodies, but they need a guy like Martez Wilson to be a force. Iowa + Wisconsin - two teams who are expected to make bowls - are off this years schedule, and Michigan State + Purdue return. If they steal one in Columbus again, they could / should win the conference.

 

[russ1945]

Yeah, Illinois is clearly the darkhorse for the Big Ten Title. They've got the best offense in the conference with Juice Williams, Rejus Benn, and Florida transfer Jarred Fayson finally eligible. Their defense has some decent bodies, but they need a guy like Martez Wilson to be a force. Iowa + Wisconsin - two teams who are expected to make bowls - are off this years schedule, and Michigan State + Purdue return. If they steal one in Columbus again, they could / should win the conference.

I know some people don't like the HC but he got them to the Rose Bowl recently. Improving their running game and defense are the keys in my book. I envision the Big 10 as being a little more closely knitted in terms of parity for the first time in a while. Going to be an interesting season in the Big 10.

 

[TOOTIGHT]

Illinois

Their in conference schedule doesn't look too bad but they have to play Mizzou, Fresno St., and Cincy outside the Big10. Only one cupcake team for the Illini this year unless you want to throw in Indiana as well.

The defense is a major concern though so they may need to really score on offense if these young promissing defensive recruits don't work out. They do get a few guys back from injury that are capable of making an impact both on the D-line and in the secondary. Most of Illini nation are worried about how the LB position ends up. The 5 star freak Martez Wilson didn't impress last year on the outside and now moves to the middle. Has all the talent in the world but lacked the instincts and football IQ. Now that he's a JR, things could change for the better. The other 2 spots don't carry much experience or promise. Hopefully, over the summer I can figure out if this defense will be able to stop the run and the big plays that crushed them last season.

 

[russ1945]

Tootight

I see them going into Ohio St 2-0 then at Ohio St and then Penn St & Mich St back to back at home. Worst case scenario 2-3. After that they can win 6 of 7 and even at 5 of 7 go to a bowl. I look for them to play Ohio St and maybe pull some points and Penn St catches Iowa at home just before they go to Illinois and that is Penn St's first road game of 2009. I actually see an 8-4 season and being pretty tough ATS. You are right on about the defense. Steele has them as no. 18 and Iowa at 16 on his Power Poll 120 and not having to face Iowa this year helps big time. As a handicapper I think they will be a bet on team more than a bet against team. They could really surprise and their offense may be able to carry a half decent defense. I have always like Juice and would love to see him go out the way he deserves to.

 

[Flsunman]

7.Georgia

im tellin ya - Georgia will win the SEC this year

I'm more worried about UGA this year than last. Overall, they're better with a game manager like Cox vs Stafford, sounds nuts but it's true.

I just can't see the dawgs beating UF but you never know.

 

[MajorGCG]

Early on I thought UGA would actually be better this year, but after seeing their spring game I just don't see it. UF's schedule sets up too well for them and their defense is probably top 3 in the country this year. The Gators have also shown they can win huge games without Harvin (See 2008 SECCG). Gators have the week off before LSU and the majority of key starters this year played in BR two years ago. Beyond LSU, the key games of concern are UGA and FSU and frankly I don't think either team is very good.

 

[goblue12]

Here is his "most improved teams".

1. Illinois
2. Ohio U
3. UCLA
4. Michigan
5. UTEP
6. NC State
7. Arkansas
8. Colorado
9. Tennessee
10. Akron
11. Baylor
12. Kansas State

 

[BigdaddyQH]

Let me say a few things about what has beenposted in here. First, Illinois did not EARN a Rose Bowl spot. The BCS GAVE them the spot at the request of the Rose Bowl, by changing the rules to allow the then #16 team in the BCS to leapfrog other teams.

Next, as far as russ from Okie City goes, you seem to have a handle on what you are talking about, but you do come off as a pompous a**. Too bad, because you probably can become a very solid contributor in here if you lose the attitude.

Finally, as far as Steele's "suprise" teams are concerned, he worded that badly. Picking 5 teams that I pick to win Conference Championships (Rutgers, Cal, Penn State, Boise State, and TCU) can hardly be termed a "surprise" by anyone. Maybe he should have titled it "Teams to Watch" or something more appropriate.

A word about Steele's mag and others. Steele's mag (Steele has nothing to do with it any longer) is basically a tool for technical handicappers to use. Much like Lawrences "Playbook", it contains a lot of information on past games, trends, and the like. Steele add some kind of strang power rating system based on who knows what. Blue Ribbon, a favorite in here, and almost unheard of in other forums, is totally different. They concentrate on players much more than technical information. To each, their own. Two different types of mags. Also remember that Northcoast (Steele) is a tout, trying to peddle their products on an unsuspecting public.

 

[russ1945]

Let me say a few things about what has beenposted in here. First, Illinois did not EARN a Rose Bowl spot. The BCS GAVE them the spot at the request of the Rose Bowl, by changing the rules to allow the then #16 team in the BCS to leapfrog other teams.

Next, as far as russ from Okie City goes, you seem to have a handle on what you are talking about, but you do come off as a pompous a**. Too bad, because you probably can become a very solid contributor in here if you lose the attitude.

Finally, as far as Steele's "suprise" teams are concerned, he worded that badly. Picking 5 teams that I pick to win Conference Championships (Rutgers, Cal, Penn State, Boise State, and TCU) can hardly be termed a "surprise" by anyone. Maybe he should have titled it "Teams to Watch" or something more appropriate.

A word about Steele's mag and others. Steele's mag (Steele has nothing to do with it any longer) is basically a tool for technical handicappers to use. Much like Lawrences "Playbook", it contains a lot of information on past games, trends, and the like. Steele add some kind of strang power rating system based on who knows what. Blue Ribbon, a favorite in here, and almost unheard of in other forums, is totally different. They concentrate on players much more than technical information. To each, their own. Two different types of mags. Also remember that Northcoast (Steele) is a tout, trying to peddle their products on an unsuspecting public.

I guess if a pompous ass is someone who has spent over 4months crunching numbers and breaking down teams and sharing it on here then so be it. What do you call someone who does all that and doesn't share it. Maybe you feel that way because I do throw numbers around a lot and not everyone is into that. I am a technical handicapper but I have first hand knowledge of every team, coaching staff, in other words I can put names and faces with the numbers. I do not rely on numbers alone but I cannot ignore them if they tell me something. But first and formost, I read almost every post looking for other viewpoints, including yours. Sorry if I come off that way, I am pretty intense not a casual better.
I have some backers and they rely on me and I do take it seriously.
As far as Steele goes I rely on his Preview because of his technical viewpoint and I use his online site a lot. I agree he is not for everyone and anyone who only picks 15 of his top 25 correctly LY probably is open to crticism. I use 18 reference points to compare teams for starters and I rely on some of his numbers on that spreadsheet. Keep posting and I can see where you are coming from. I am probably an acquired taste but I do and will continue to share info all the way up to week one. Good luck.