More pictures from Cal's Visit...

I was fortunate enough to make it out Monday night, to what was a very entertaining event. If anyone in attendance had any doubt about whether Coach Cal was the right man for this job, I am sure he erased those doubts. This guy really gets it, and he's extremely funny to boot. Coach stayed until the last book was signed and even signed some memorabilia for some folks. It was a fun filled event to say the least. So as J.Lee promised, here are a few more pictures I was able to get. I'll spare you any corny captions.

Click picture to enlarge. If you would like to see my complete album, email me at jbruer81@gmail.com

More Later. Have a Great night!

Football Wrap Up...

Gomez here. We hope you had a great labor day weekend.... we sure did. We're running a little late with our complete football coverage because of the holiday and the fact that our area was taken over by Cal and his entourage yesterday. Anyway, here's some Tuesday morning football flavored videos and quick clicks. Thanks to our friend John Clay for the videos.





:: Lindley didn't waste anytime earning his first honor of the new season.

:: Kentucky is currently on top of the UK/UL Football rivalry

Coach Cal makes a stop in Paducah...

Tonight was a special night for those of us on the western side of the state as Coach Cal spoke to nearly a thousand faithful in downtown Paducah. It was a great night and all the proceeds went to the United Way. Several of us from BBNR were able to attend and there will be plenty of pics and videos added throughout the week. The United Way of Paducah put on quite an event for all in attendance. Cal spoke mainly of his new book "Bounce Back" and I cannot wait to read it. There were also special guests in the house: Winston Bennett, Marie Jackson, Joe Craft, Rod Strickland and Orlando Antigua.

One of the nice moments of the night was when he spoke of the team. You could just see his excitement when he talked about the incoming class (who he said thinks they can poop ice cream) and those that are returning. He spoke highly of all the players but made special mention of Deandre Liggins, who he said was made for the dribble drive offense. He also said Mark Krebs was deserving of the final scholarship and just a great kid. From the way he spoke of Krebs none of us should be surprised if we see him get some floor time. Coach Cal is a great speaker and truly a funny guy.

A big thank you needs to go out to Coach Cal and his staff for coming down and the sponsors who made it happen.

More later...

Happy Labor Day...

We all here at BBNR hope that your having a wonderful Labor Day. We're excited because this Labor Day marks Calipari's first visit to the Jackson Purchase as coach of the Cats. Doors open at 5 PM and from what I understand there are still a few tickets available. The Wildcat faithful in western Kentucky have been excited about this trip every since he was named the head coach. We'll be around later with pictures and impressions from the event in Paducah.



Now for some Labor Day quick clicks...

:: Slam Magazine breaks down Cal's Cats...
:: Katz talks about Louisville's hiring of Teague...
::Updated Football notes from the Sports Xchange...

Happy Birthday John Wall

Today the number 1 recruit will celebrate his 19th birthday. Happy birthday John from all of us here at the Big Blue Nation Report.

Wendi Nix is underrated, seriously...

Erin Andrews, who? Wendi Nix is hosting game day on ESPN 2 today and looking very nice (using my best Borat voice). It's not just her looks, but Wendi continues to gain creditablity in her analysis of all things football. It's nothing for her to be on a college sideline on Saturday and prowling along media row in the NFL on Sunday. So here's to you Wendi, have a great season at ESPN and we hope to see you in Lexington soon.

Cats thump Miami 42-0

What a great start to the Cat's season? We saw improved play on both sides of the ball, in almost every facet of the game. There is always room for improvement and yes, it was Miami (OH), but it was still a good debut for Coach Rich Brooks' team.

There are so many things to take from this game but none may be more impressive than the maturation of one Mike Hartline. He seemed poised, comfortable and confident throughout. The improved and experienced offensive line consistently gave Mike time in the pocket and he did not disappoint. Mike's line on the day was 18/27, 222 Yds, 2 TD, 0 INT. He didn't play much in the 4th quarter or I am sure his line would of been even more impressive.

As I said earlier, Randal Cobb is going to be a lot of fun to watch this season. He is an absolute monster on offense and can be the difference between another "decent" season or possibly contending for a New Year's Day bowl. He gives Joker so many different options. Whether he is lining up as a wide out, taking a direct snap or receiving on special teams, he is someone that will be tough for SEC defenses to prepare for. Cobb finished with 107 total yds and 2 TD. Savor him folks, he truly is special.

We would be re missed if we didn't mention the defense. We are a little spoiled, expecting them to do great things every game, but what they did today was remarkable. The Wildcats pitched their first shut out since 1996! After a sluggish start the D dominated the last three quarters. Senior corner Trevard Lindley had an INT return for a TD, moving him to 4th on the all-time UK list with 10.

Just an all around good day for the Cats as so many things went well. The Cats have an off week next weekend before hosting the Cards on Sep. 19th. More thoughts from the staff throughout the holiday weekend, but for now enjoy the win and start getting ready for our cross state rivals.

Half Time thoughts from the BBNR staff

UK 21
Miami(OH) 0

Half Time

The BBNR staff has gathered together at the "Cat Cave" to kick off the season, and here are some of our first half impressions...

Michael: I have been pleasantly surprised with the efficiency of Mike Hartline. Remember it was Andre Woodson's junior year when he really grasped the offense and lead the team.

Chris: After a sluggish start the defense has really been strong in the second quarter. It took an INT to really wake the Cats up and turn the momentum of the half.

Johnathan: One of my biggest concerns is the poor tackling. They'll have to get better before taking on the faster, more athletic play makers in the SEC. The most positive thing is the line play on both sides of the ball. Even with a third string Center, the offensive line has consistently given Hartline time, and the D-Line has been strong as expected. (In other news, I would love to be a linebacker for Minnesota today. Greg Paulas anyone?)

Jeremy: Wow, Randal Cobb is a beast. It's so nice to see him back on the field and healthy. We are now getting an understanding of what our team may have looked like down the stretch last season. He is the best play maker on our team and if the first half is any indication it's going to be a fun year in Lexington.

Today's Match-Up...

Kentucky vs. Miami

Kick-Off: 12 PM EST
TV: ESPNU
Radio: BBSN
Game Preview and Scouting Report
Game Tracker

It's game day. . .

And what better way to kick off the new season then with one of the best pre-game speeches in sports movie history?

Stay tuned for game impressions and thoughts from the BBNR staff throughout the day.

Friday Quick Clicks...

:: Jeanie Edwards is returning to the scene of the crime
:: Excitement over Calipari and UK hoops reaching fever pitch
:: Memphis officially files appeal to recent NCAA ruling

:: Kevin Galloway is heading to Texas Southern University
:: UK Football team is ready to play Saturday

Games we're watching this weekend...

We're all going to be watching Kentucky and Miami (OH) tomorrow, so that's a given. But here's a few of the other match-ups that we'll be watching, as well... let's make it our top 5 non-UK games...

1.) #5 Alabama vs. #7 Virginia Tech
2.) #13 Georgia at #9 Oklahoma St.
3.) #20 BYU at #3 Oklahoma
4.) #11 LSU at Washington
5.) Nevada at #23 Notre Dame

Obama joins the UK team...

Gomez here... Cal sent an autographed UK jersey to Obama.

No word when Sarah Palin can expect hers.

Click here to watch the video

The New Class...

So yeah, I guess they can wear sweatbands for sure, considering they're wearing them in the team photos. Hahaha.

More later... so stay tuned.

Afternoon Quick Clicks...

:: Former UK great, Ed Davender in trouble over ticket scam
:: With the dawn of a new season at hand, UK deals with injuries
:: Jody Demling's Recruiting Nuggets
:: Get to know your (DeMarcus) Cousins!

This is why we love our coach...

This is another reason why we love our coach... here's a pic of Cal spending time with the very people that make up Big Blue Nation, like here and in other little diners like this, scattered all over the state. Vintage stuff.

T-Minus 3 Days. . .

Kick off is just three days away so it's time to switch gears and get ready for the upcoming season. I have been debating the possible record the Cats could have at the end of the season, and I am still torn on a few of the match-ups. However, time is slipping away so I have to go with my gut and finalize my predictions. I won't, however, pretend to have all the answers and give scoring predictions for each game. I believe the Cats' defense will keep them in games and give them the opportunity to steal one or two. The offense also seems to be ahead of where it was a year ago. Hartline may be ready for a breakout year, and the offensive line is the strongest it's been in Brooks' time in Lexington.

Sep. 5 Miami(OH): The Cats open up the season in Cincinnati with a game against the Red Hawks. It should be a good test for them on a neutral field. Still the Cats' defense should hold down the fort and help the Cats win comfortably. WIN

Sep. 19 Louisville: The Cats get their arch rivals at home this season which should help them. The Cardinals have a new QB and a lot of changes in the coaching staff, so to say they are rebuilding is an understatement. Still they have some play makers and will be in the game until the end. However, I think the Cats' home field advantage, two weeks of practice, and consistently strong defense will help the Cats pull away in the second half. WIN

Sep. 26 Florida: Not much to break down here. Tim Tebow and the most talented team in the country will win going away...again. LOSS

Oct. 3 Alabama: It won't get any easier the next when the Tide rolls into to Lexington. I don't think this game will be as lopsided as the prior week's, but I still can't see the Cats pulling it out either. LOSS

Oct. 10 South Carolina: Some say the Gamecocks are a darkhorse in the SEC East, and it's hard disagree. Coupled with that fact is the reminder that this year's game is in Columbia; so, I think it'll be a tough one for the Cats to find a way to win on the road. I think it could be a close game but the Cats will come up just short. LOSS

Oct. 17 Auburn: The Tigers are a bit of mystery in the SEC West this season. They had a lot of folks scratching their heads with the hiring of Gene Chizik from Iowa State in the off season. Yet, he does know Auburn Football and shouldn't be judged on what he did at ISU. Remember he was 13-0 as the defensive coordinator at Auburn. Still this could be another long year for the Tigers as the offense doesn't seem to be much better than they were last season. I think the Cats' defense will hold them at bay and win the game for Coach Brooks. WIN

Oct. 24 Louisiana-Monroe: The Cats return back to friendly Commonwealth with what should be an easy victory. The Warhawks just don't have the playmakers to hang with the Cats who should be fine tuned by this point in the season. WIN

Oct. 31 Mississippi State: The Cats hope to have plenty of treats and not tricks when the Bulldogs roll into town for their annual game. MSU has a new coach in Dan Mullen but it's hard to believe he'll have much to work with this season. MSU does not have much upfront on offense which could be the only advantage the Cats need to win this one. Mullen will turn it around down there, just not this season. WIN

Nov. 7 Eastern Kentucky: The Cats shouldn't have any problems here, so I am not going to waste my time breaking the game down. OVC vs. SEC in November? If this game is even close then I'll be disappointed. WIN

Nov. 14 Vanderbilt: Vandy has some players coming back but lost alot on defense which was their strongest attribute last season. The offensive line has been kept together for the most part, but it wasn't anything to write home about last season. I think the Dores just won't have enough playmakers to score enough points against the Cat's tough defense. WIN

Nov. 21 Georgia: The Bulldogs were a sexy pick to win it all last year but didn't live up to expectations. They lost several key position players including star QB Matt Stafford. Still it's Georgia, and they simply reload instead of rebuild. If the Cats played the Dawgs earlier in the year then I would see hope, instead they'll get them in November when they should of had time to pull it all together. LOSS

Nov. 28 Tennessee: The Vols are coming back to Lexington this season where they have found a way to win several close games over the last decade. Still this is a game the Cats can win! Crompton wasn't good at QB last season and the offense was just horrid. They have a decent class coming in but it's hard to believe they'll be able to contribute this season. If the Vols' offense is questionable again, this game is where the Cats will finally break the streak, and I think they will. WIN

Final Record: 8-4, Outback Bowl

I know it's hard to believe that the Cats could be playing on New Year's Day this year, but I see it happening. The Cats are catching Tennessee and Auburn at the right time for big time wins. Those two games, along with Louisville are the key games of the season. If the Cats find a way to win those three and don't give games like Vanderbilt and Mississippi State away, the football Cats could keep the attention away from Cal's Cats for a few months this fall.

Brandon Knight to visit UK

Scout is reporting that Brandon Knight will visit UK on September 19th for the home football game against Louisville. He's next year's John Wall...

Stock Report: SEC Basketball

It is difficult to look at the prospects of SEC basketball programs and find those destined for failure. Every school has its reasons to be excited about the future, but some are better bets than others. I am going to list which school's futures I would invest in, in reverse order, to help get an idea of what the future might hold for each SEC program. Today, we will look into the crystal ball and at the bottom half of the SEC futures.

12. Georgia

I can't recommend the Bulldogs just yet, even though they hired a coach with a record of winning in former Nevada coach Mark Fox. The talent level in the state of Georgia gives the Bulldogs a great recruiting base, similar to the one Billy Donovan inherited at another SEC Football powerhouse. The question I have is, can Fox stave off every other coach in the country and keep top talent in-state? Georgia has always been able to pull in a couple of top players, but rarely fields a team chock full of talent. I am not sure if they can be anything more than a team composed of a couple questionable characters with talent surrounded by random and nonathletic white guys like Dave Bliss.

11. Auburn

I like Jeff Lebo, and the Tigers have a state of the art basketball facility on the way for 2010. I just don't understand how either are going to cause Auburn fans to notice. By the time 2010 rolls around the Tiger faithful will be more interested in who their new football coach will be than anything to do with their basketball program. That isn't going to cut it in the new SEC.

10. South Carolina

The Gamecocks feel like a team that is going to dominate the NIT for years to come. Darrin Horn is a good in-game coach, but seems like the intense type that could run off players and let his competitive nature talk himself into questionable character talent (Kinda like that Gillispie guy). I am a little skeptical of a coach that is three times more enthusiastic than Dwight Perry on a sugar rush. Horn reminds me a little of Quinn Snyder and that isn't a good thing for the Cocks.

9. Ole Miss

Andy Kennedy is a very good coach if you can keep him away from middle-aged taxi cab drivers. He has some talent for the upcoming season, even a potential first round pick in Terrico White, who could help elevate the Rebel program. I just don't see Ole Miss being anything more than a team that makes the Sweet Sixteen every couple years. That would be a great accomplishment for this program, but that seemingly short ceiling keeps them from being higher on this list.

8. Mississippi State

Mississippi State is the favorite for second place in the SEC this season. I am just not comfortable recommending these Bulldogs down the road though. I can't see them landing top recruits that don't have big question marks surrounding them. They have done pretty well for themselves in recent years, but I just can't see a top program residing in Starkville, Miss.

7. Arkansas

I put them here because they have a little more upside than the other programs. They probably have the second most rabid fan base in the SEC which means something to a Wildcat fan. I can still remember the Hogs of the 90's being a worthy adversary, and wouldn't mind them getting back to that level. The talent is there for a run this season. Arkansas is a sleeping giant, and it will only take one good season to awaken them. The biggest question mark is their Coach. Is he ready for the big time, or should he go back to Billy D's comforting teet? If Pelphry can handle the pressure he has a chance to take the Razorbacks up this list and be a perennial top 25 team.

Tuesday Morning Sausage Links...

Good morning... Gomez here. Okay, so I don't really have any sausage links for you, but I do have some cool internet links of Big Blue interest, so let's get started...

:: Midnight Madness tickets go on sale at 7 PM EST on October 3rd. Online sales will be handled by Ticketmaster. Good luck to us all... may the best man win a ticket or two (and then sell them to the highest bidder).

:: Here's some early Final Four predictions... see what they say about the Cats.

:: Our love affair with Mike DeCourcy continues with this interview with UK's Darius Miller.

:: The football season is really, really close. Read this article at the official UK site to see what the UK coaches and players are saying as kick-off nears.

More later...