sutomcat
No recent Cali or Iggy awards; Mr Irrelevant
- Joined
- Aug 15, 2011
- Messages
- 25,319
- Like
- 109,475
Welcome to National Meteor Day!
Heads raise upwards and eyes scan the sky, keeping watch for meteors, for it is National Meteor Day, also commonly known as National Meteor Watch Day. Meteors, sometimes called shooting or falling stars, glow brightly as they fall through the Earth's atmosphere. They start out as meteoroids, a small piece of space dust made of rock or metal, which may be as small as a particle or as large as a rock, and which has broken off from an asteroid or planet. Meteoroids come up against air particles, which creates friction. They then heat up and burn to the point of vaporization. The glow they produce is the hot air that remains as they burn.
SU News
youtu.be
What's behind SU football’s hot recruiting run? Who are the key names to know? (PS; $; podcast; Axe)
Syracuse University football head coach Dino Babers has some serious recruiting momentum on his side at the moment.
As of this writing, SU’s Class of 2024 has 15 commitments and ranks 34th on 247Sports’ composite recruiting rankings.
What’s behind the recent run of Orange commitments before an NCAA quiet period took effect this week?
Who are the key new additions to the class?
Why has New Jersey bore fruit for Babers on the recruiting trail?
Syracuse.com’s Brent Axe and Emily Leiker discussed those questions and more.
You can watch their discussion in the YouTube video below.
Can’t see the podcast? Listen here.
Keeping Up With The 315 6-29-23 (ESPN; radio; The 315)
Brian Higgins opens the show giving his latest thoughts on how a creative solution needs to happen with the LeQuint Allen story before it goes national. Then, he talks about the rare perfect game last night from the Yankees Domingo German. Finally, Brian thinks he has figured out the entire non-conference schedule for men’s basketball and gives his take on it.
#20 LeQuint Allen running back. The Syracuse football team face-off in the AmeriCU scrimmage played at the JMA Wireless Dome April 21, 2023. Dennis Nett@syracuse.com #freeLeQuint
Axe: Allen made a mistake and got extreme penalty. Is there no better way to handle this? (PS; $; Axe)
The suspension of Syracuse University running back LeQuint Allen has sparked an outcry in the Orange community and put SU’s secretive judicial affairs body under renewed scrutiny.
Based on what we know, the fact this story has gone this far is ignominious.
Allen made a mistake. He owned the mistake. He offered up what reasonable minds can conclude is fair atonement for his mistake.
And yet, Syracuse’s judicial affairs process failed the smell test here. It needs to focus on fairly and reasonably guiding its student body more in line with the real world in which it is preparing its students to enter.
Allen’s status as a football player shouldn’t matter here.
Any student deserves fair treatment, and that includes the 23-year-old student Allen claims hit him first.
The point that rings loudest at this stage of the game: Is there not a better way to handle this type of disciplinary matter?
In SU’s courtroom, lawyers can’t speak up before the panel of students and faculty holding the gavel.
The process does not require both the accuser and the accused to appear at the hearing.
...
Syracuse football 4-star commit, recruit in top 300 of new national rankings (itlh; Adler)
Several of the primary recruiting services have updated their 2024 national rankings, with a Syracuse football four-star commit and an Orange four-star target making the cut in the top 300 across the country.
We’ll start with 2024 four-star wide receiver/tight end Jamie Tremble, who gave a verbal commitment to Syracuse football a few weeks ago, one of a dozen pledges to the ‘Cuse in June alone. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Tremble is a rising senior at The Wesleyan School in Peachtree Corners, Ga.
On Thursday, 247Sports released its updated 2024 national ratings of the top-247 prospects in this cycle, and Tremble is included in these refreshed rankings. Via 247Sports, he is four stars, No. 236 overall, No. 14 at tight end and No. 30 in Georgia.
When I penned this column, the industry-generated 247Sports Composite had him as three stars, No. 482 nationally, No. 27 at tight end and No. 55 in Georgia. The On3 Industry Ranking, meanwhile, placed Tremble as four stars, No. 373 nationwide, No. 24 at tight end and No. 43 in Georgia.
As a junior during the 2022 season for Wesleyan, per MaxPreps, Tremble caught 55 passes for 890 yards and 11 receiving touchdowns. He also had 68 kick-return yards.
...
Amanda Christovich "The 315" 6-29-23 (ESPN; radio; The 315)
Amanda Christovich, reporter for Front Office Sports, joins Brian Higgins to discuss legal drama surrounding the upcoming NCAA Football video game, the NCAA’s memo to schools regarding state laws, and more.
Juwaun Price
What Else Does Syracuse Have at Running Back? (orangefizz.net; Simone)
LeQuint Allen’s future is certainly in doubt. We’ll see what happens in the court system regarding his suspension, but the possibility that he doesn’t play for Syracuse this year, or ever again, is certainly there. So, while we wait for clarity on what Allen’s future holds, let’s examine what else Syracuse has at running back.
Juwaun Price
Price was brought in with big expectations as a transfer from New Mexico State prior to last season. He scored 10 touchdowns in 2021, while averaging over five yards per carry. His overall production totals were low, with just 692 rushing yards, but it was on only 135 carries.
Many thought that Price would be Sean Tucker’s backup last year, but was beaten out by Allen. This year, he was set to be the undisputed backup. If Allen doesn’t play, odds are Price would be the starting running back, at least at the beginning of the season.
Ike Daniels
...
Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship announces partnership with Syracuse University | Rochester Business Journal (rjb.net; Deckert)
Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship is partnering with Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies to offer its two-year certificate program graduates the option to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a reduced per credit rate equivalent to the total cost of a Golisano education.
The first partnership of its kind for both institutions creates a path from a professional certificate program into transfer credits that will directly apply up to 48 credits toward a choice of four Syracuse bachelor’s programs: creative leadership, business management, knowledge management and liberal studies.
Founded and fully funded by Tom Golisano, Golisano Institute provides a two-year certificate program aimed at making a premier business education accessible for all. The Institute will open this fall to welcome its first class of students.
“We are proud to partner with Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies to ensure that Golisano Institute graduates have the option to transfer credits earned here toward a Syracuse bachelor’s degree,” said Ian Mortimer, president of Golisano Institute. “Our shared mission to deliver a high-quality educational experience for tomorrow’s business leaders and entrepreneurs while providing access to learners of all walks of life makes this the ideal partnership.”
ACC News
FSU football: Noles have the best defensive secondary in the ACC? (chopchat.com; Hunt)
The FSU football defense was much better than folks(even some supposed FSU media) want to give credit in 2022. The context of FSU having to play several games without Fabien Lovett and with Jared Verse operating around 75 percent tells more of the story.
Most of the flaws in the defense were a direct result of those injuries, coupled with the lack of depth. Some folks have said the secondary stats were misleading or not accurate, while others have said the secondary doesn’t know how to play zone defense.
Both statements are not true. Did the secondary leave some plays on the field? Absolutely, there are several I’d like to have back from last year.
The defense should be even better in 2023 with the added talent and depth along the defensive line. FSU returns both starting linebackers, but the loss of 2X All-ACC safety Jammie Robinson will be hard to replace.
With that, ESPN’s David Hale stated he beleived FSU had the best secondary in the ACC last year, and will have the best secondary in 2023:
Southern Methodist University (RX; HM)
Southern Methodist University
The Pony Express rides again!
I'll be honest, when I think of SMU, I think of Eric Dickerson. I also think of the NCAA Death Penalty (something which I'm confident will never happen again!). I think of a private school in Dallas with lots of money and a passion for football. All of those things are what makes SMU a great expansion candidate.
Founded: 1911
Type: Private research university
Enrollment: 11,649
Endowment: $2.0 billion
Nickname: Mustangs
Religious Affiliation: United Methodist Church
...
https://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/article276865083.html (newsobserver.com; Hricik)
School’s out for the summer, and that means it’s time for the busiest month of the year for recruitment. June is filled with official visits, camps, tours, meetings and phone calls for college football hopefuls and coaches alike.
And in the past four weeks, the Triangle has seen its fair share of 2024 commitments: UNC, NC State and Duke have had a combined 28 through the end of June.
The earliest these new commits can sign their National Letter of Intent is Dec. 20, but the declarations to date give fans of all three schools something to look forward to during the summer months.
Here’s a brief look where Carolina, Duke and NC State stand with their most recent commitments.
NORTH CAROLINA
The Tar Heels have stayed in the middle of the pack for summer recruitment, at least thus far. Head coach Mack Brown has seven June commitments to bring his total to 20 on the Class of 2024 roster. Carolina now ranks 16th nationally in recruiting class, per 247Sports.
Brown has recruited quite a few offensive lineman, with a decent mix of defensive positions. He’s secured two four-star recruits thus far, running back Davion Gause and cornerback Zion Ferguson. Gause, originally from Florida, is the No. 51 recruit in the state and No. 28 at his position, while Ferguson is No. 38 in Georgia and No. 26 as a running back, according to 247Sports.
There are three “athletes” listed for Carolina — players who can play multiple positions at their respective high schools, and were willing to market themselves for any of those positions. In most cases, head coaches have an idea of where these athletes play, but fans won’t know until these newcomers join the program.
For the Tar Heels, these athletes are Curtis Simpson, Carlos Mitchell Jr. and Khail Conley.
DUKE
Of the three Triangle schools, the Blue Devils by far have been the most active. Duke holds 16 commitments through June, bringing its total for the Class of 2024 to 20, and recently picked up a four-star quarterback from Indiana. Duke is now the No. 26 overall class nationally, but it will likely fluctuate as we get closer to signing day.
Duke’s two four-star recruits for 2024 at the moment are quarterback Tyler Cherry and safety Paul Mencke Jr., both of whom have committed in the past two months. Cherry ranks as the No. 5 quarterback in the state, and No. 27 at his position, while Mencke Jr. is No. 65 in his home state, Texas, and No. 35 at his position.
Head coach Mike Elko has started developing a trend with his recruits, picking up a number of offensive linemen and some depth in the defensive backfield. However, he does have two “athletes” listed as commitments, in Landan Callahan and Da’Vontae Floyd.
NC STATE
The Pack has been the quietest of the three schools, sealing five commitments throughout June for a total 10 commitments for next season. NCSU sits at No. 56 nationally for its recruiting class.
There’s only one committed four-star recruit, Ronnie Royal III from Gulf Shores, Alabama. He’s a brand new catch for the Pack, committing just a week ago. Royal III is also the only listed “athlete” of the bunch, but standing at 5-foot-9 and 170 pounds, he became the No. 22 player in Georgia and No. 31 at his position heading into his senior season.
NC State has received commitments mainly from running backs, cornerbacks and safeties so far. The Pack does have a quarterback committed, Florida’s Cedrick Bailey, as well as a few linebackers, but the running backs hold the majority.
...
ACC Announces 2023-24 Conference Leadership (theacc.com)
The Atlantic Coast Conference and its Board of Directors have announced the 2023-24 conference leadership structure.
University of Virginia President James E. Ryan will begin the first year of his two-year term as the league’s Chair of the Board of Directors and will be joined by University of North Carolina Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz as the Vice-Chair. ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips serves as the Conference's Chief Executive Officer.
“It is an honor to serve the conference as chair of the ACC Board of Directors, and I very much look forward to working with my colleagues and Commissioner Phillips in this role," Ryan said. “Our league remains committed to first-rate academics and first-rate athletics, and to ensuring that all of our priorities are accomplished with the utmost integrity.”
“The amazing leadership at our 15 member institutions is one of the ACC’s greatest assets,” Phillips said. “The past year saw many positive developments for our conference, including the endorsement of the league’s success incentives initiative, the relocation of the conference office headquarters to Charlotte, and winning nine national titles. To be certain, I look forward to a tremendous year working with the entire Board lead by President Ryan and Chancellor Guskiewicz.”
The Conference’s Executive Committee will include Ryan, Guskiewicz, Boston College President William Leahy, Miami President Julio Frenk, Virginia Tech President Timothy Sands and Wake Forest President Susan Wente. The remaining Board of Directors members are represented on other key committees such as Finance, Audit and Autonomy and will rotate onto the Executive Committee as terms expire.
The Chair of the Faculty Athletic Representatives for the 2023-24 academic year will be Sheila Vélez Martínez (University of Pittsburgh). John Wildhack (Syracuse University) will be the Chair of the Athletics Directors, and Amy Calabrese (Louisville) will serve as the Chair of the Senior Woman Administrators.
The ACC adopted changes to its constitution and bylaws in 2020 that officially established the 15 league presidents and chancellors as the ACC’s Board of Directors. Previous Board chairs include Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud (2020-21) and Duke University President Vincent E. Price (2021-22, 2022-23).
https://athlonsports.com/college-football/virginia-football-cavaliers-prediction-preview-2023 (athlonsports.com; Staff)
Virginia finished 3-7 in coach Tony Elliott's debut, and there's no guarantee the going is any easier in '23. The Cavaliers return just nine starters and have major question marks on offense. Monmouth transfer Tony Muskett is expected to start at quarterback, but Elliott has to guide the offense through significant transition at receiver and along the offensive line. Although the offense may struggle, the outlook is better on defense. Six of the team's nine returning starters come on this side of the ball, including All-ACC candidates in Chico Bennett (end), Aaron Faumui (tackle), and safety Antonio Clary (safety).
Tony Muskett, a transfer from FCS Monmouth, likely will take over for record-setting quarterback Brennan Armstrong following Armstrong’s in-conference transfer to NC State. Dual-threat option Jay Woolfolk, also a pitcher on the school’s baseball team, should have opportunities to contribute as well.
Elliott wants to establish the running game, and with Perris Jones, Mike Hollins and Xavier Brown returning (790 combined yards), Amaad Foston back from injury and Clemson transfer Kobe Pace joining the group, the RB unit figures to be the strength of the offense. But the run game may only be as strong as the offensive line, and that group is a major question mark.
...
Big Updates on Boston College Football Recruiting. ACC/SEC Challenge Opponent Revealed! (youtube.com; podcast; Locked on Boston College)
Boston College football recruiting wraps up a busy June, and on today's show we talk about some of the big targets that Jeff Hafley and his staff are still targeting. Also BC will face Vanderbilt in the ACC/SEC Challenge, and Will Smith, Gabe Perrault and Ryan Leonard all drafted in the first round of the NHL Draft heading to the San Jose Sharks, Washington Capitals and New York Rangers.
2022-23 Director's Cup Final Standings (RX; HM)
2022-23 Director's Cup Final Standings
From the official ACC release of Wednesday, June 28, 2023...
Virginia led all ACC schools with a fourth-place finish, led by a third consecutive NCAA women’s swimming and diving championship and a second consecutive NCAA men’s tennis championship.
North Carolina joined the Cavaliers among the top 10 in eighth place, followed by Duke (16th), Florida State (17th), NC State (19th) and Notre Dame (20th). The ACC’s six schools among this year’s top 20 are the second-most of any conference.
Louisville (32nd place), Wake Forest (42nd), Syracuse (45th) and Miami (49th) give the ACC 10 institutions among the top 50. They are closely followed by Clemson (51st), Pitt (52nd) and Virginia Tech (55th).
...
UCF Coach DESTROYED by FSU UF & Miami for INSANE Stance (youtube; podcast; No Fries)
Gus Malzahn made a comment this week about the Big 3 and UCF's place within the state. Here's why he's INSANE and the critical INFO you need NOW!
Other
Kyle Mastropietro (left) and Jesse Canestrare outside of Kasai on Tuesday, days before it will close. (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com)Charlie Miller
2 Armory Square restaurants closing as owner searches for new downtown location (PS; $; Miller)
Two restaurants in Syracuse’s Armory Square will close this week as the owner searches for a new location downtown.
Kasai, a modern fusion restaurant 218 Walton St. that specializes in ramen dishes, will serve its last meal Friday night, said owner and chef Kyle Mastropietro. Danny’s Steaks, his cheesesteak restaurant next door, shut down for good on Tuesday. The two ghost kitchens that prepare food ordered online exclusively for delivery or pick-up at Danny’s — Decir Algo and Salt City Smash Burger — have also closed.
The leases of the two storefronts at the end of Walton Street were up for renewal at the end of the month, and Mastropietro decided to look for a better spot for less money.
“I don’t want to leave here,” Mastropietro said Tuesday while sitting at Kasai’s bar. “I have put my heart and soul into this place, and I have nothing but great memories here. But it doesn’t make sense to stay.”
Kasai opened five years ago on a $50,000 investment. Danny’s opened at the end of 2021. Mastropietro said he several times had offered building owner Tom Fabbioli to purchase the property, but he declined.
...
Scrod Christopher at Sherwood Inn (Danielle Benjamin | Contributing Writer)
The Sherwood Inn pleases the palate from the first sip to the last bite (Dining Out Review) (PS; Benjamin)
Next time you’re looking for a dinner spot that checks all of the boxes, look no further than The Sherwood Inn in Skaneateles. On a recent visit to one of the charming village’s oldest restaurants, we enjoyed excellent service and delicious, creative bites throughout our dinner.
Located in the heart of Skaneateles, The Sherwood Inn dates back to 1807, and has had a colorful history over the course of two centuries. Stepping foot inside the historic building immediately takes you back in time with the unique character of the building. Originally built as a tavern, The Sherwood Inn continues to provide dining and lodging experiences for locals and travelers alike.
One of the best fine dining experiences in the greater Syracuse area, The Sherwood also offers a more casual option at the tavern, whose entrance is just across the lobby from the higher-end eatery.
Seated quickly at a table by the window, overlooking scenic Skaneateles Lake, we started with a basket of bread — stretch bread and blue cheese focaccia from the bakery next door — which we devoured.
The Sherwood menu boasts a wealth of drink options, including beer, wine and craft cocktails. For the first round we opted for a variety of cocktails. Featuring vodka and a mix of fruits, May Flowers ($12) transported me to the beach with its blue color and tropical flavors. My companions ordered a Sherwood Manhattan ($14), the Pomegranate Sparkler ($12) and a Mezcal Margarita ($12). They were all well-crafted with flavors that emphasized yet complemented the alcohols.
...
Heads raise upwards and eyes scan the sky, keeping watch for meteors, for it is National Meteor Day, also commonly known as National Meteor Watch Day. Meteors, sometimes called shooting or falling stars, glow brightly as they fall through the Earth's atmosphere. They start out as meteoroids, a small piece of space dust made of rock or metal, which may be as small as a particle or as large as a rock, and which has broken off from an asteroid or planet. Meteoroids come up against air particles, which creates friction. They then heat up and burn to the point of vaporization. The glow they produce is the hot air that remains as they burn.
SU News
Syracuse football had a big recruiting month. Who are the key names to know?
Brent Axe and Emily Leiker turn to on-field news inside the Syracuse football program. Recruiting season is in full swing, and the Orange has gotten a number...
youtu.be
What's behind SU football’s hot recruiting run? Who are the key names to know? (PS; $; podcast; Axe)
Syracuse University football head coach Dino Babers has some serious recruiting momentum on his side at the moment.
As of this writing, SU’s Class of 2024 has 15 commitments and ranks 34th on 247Sports’ composite recruiting rankings.
What’s behind the recent run of Orange commitments before an NCAA quiet period took effect this week?
Who are the key new additions to the class?
Why has New Jersey bore fruit for Babers on the recruiting trail?
Syracuse.com’s Brent Axe and Emily Leiker discussed those questions and more.
You can watch their discussion in the YouTube video below.
Can’t see the podcast? Listen here.
Keeping Up With The 315 6-29-23 (ESPN; radio; The 315)
Brian Higgins opens the show giving his latest thoughts on how a creative solution needs to happen with the LeQuint Allen story before it goes national. Then, he talks about the rare perfect game last night from the Yankees Domingo German. Finally, Brian thinks he has figured out the entire non-conference schedule for men’s basketball and gives his take on it.
#20 LeQuint Allen running back. The Syracuse football team face-off in the AmeriCU scrimmage played at the JMA Wireless Dome April 21, 2023. Dennis Nett@syracuse.com #freeLeQuint
Axe: Allen made a mistake and got extreme penalty. Is there no better way to handle this? (PS; $; Axe)
The suspension of Syracuse University running back LeQuint Allen has sparked an outcry in the Orange community and put SU’s secretive judicial affairs body under renewed scrutiny.
Based on what we know, the fact this story has gone this far is ignominious.
Allen made a mistake. He owned the mistake. He offered up what reasonable minds can conclude is fair atonement for his mistake.
And yet, Syracuse’s judicial affairs process failed the smell test here. It needs to focus on fairly and reasonably guiding its student body more in line with the real world in which it is preparing its students to enter.
Allen’s status as a football player shouldn’t matter here.
Any student deserves fair treatment, and that includes the 23-year-old student Allen claims hit him first.
The point that rings loudest at this stage of the game: Is there not a better way to handle this type of disciplinary matter?
In SU’s courtroom, lawyers can’t speak up before the panel of students and faculty holding the gavel.
The process does not require both the accuser and the accused to appear at the hearing.
...
Syracuse football 4-star commit, recruit in top 300 of new national rankings (itlh; Adler)
Several of the primary recruiting services have updated their 2024 national rankings, with a Syracuse football four-star commit and an Orange four-star target making the cut in the top 300 across the country.
We’ll start with 2024 four-star wide receiver/tight end Jamie Tremble, who gave a verbal commitment to Syracuse football a few weeks ago, one of a dozen pledges to the ‘Cuse in June alone. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Tremble is a rising senior at The Wesleyan School in Peachtree Corners, Ga.
On Thursday, 247Sports released its updated 2024 national ratings of the top-247 prospects in this cycle, and Tremble is included in these refreshed rankings. Via 247Sports, he is four stars, No. 236 overall, No. 14 at tight end and No. 30 in Georgia.
When I penned this column, the industry-generated 247Sports Composite had him as three stars, No. 482 nationally, No. 27 at tight end and No. 55 in Georgia. The On3 Industry Ranking, meanwhile, placed Tremble as four stars, No. 373 nationwide, No. 24 at tight end and No. 43 in Georgia.
As a junior during the 2022 season for Wesleyan, per MaxPreps, Tremble caught 55 passes for 890 yards and 11 receiving touchdowns. He also had 68 kick-return yards.
...
Amanda Christovich "The 315" 6-29-23 (ESPN; radio; The 315)
Amanda Christovich, reporter for Front Office Sports, joins Brian Higgins to discuss legal drama surrounding the upcoming NCAA Football video game, the NCAA’s memo to schools regarding state laws, and more.
Juwaun Price
What Else Does Syracuse Have at Running Back? (orangefizz.net; Simone)
LeQuint Allen’s future is certainly in doubt. We’ll see what happens in the court system regarding his suspension, but the possibility that he doesn’t play for Syracuse this year, or ever again, is certainly there. So, while we wait for clarity on what Allen’s future holds, let’s examine what else Syracuse has at running back.
Juwaun Price
Price was brought in with big expectations as a transfer from New Mexico State prior to last season. He scored 10 touchdowns in 2021, while averaging over five yards per carry. His overall production totals were low, with just 692 rushing yards, but it was on only 135 carries.
Many thought that Price would be Sean Tucker’s backup last year, but was beaten out by Allen. This year, he was set to be the undisputed backup. If Allen doesn’t play, odds are Price would be the starting running back, at least at the beginning of the season.
Ike Daniels
...
Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship announces partnership with Syracuse University | Rochester Business Journal (rjb.net; Deckert)
Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship is partnering with Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies to offer its two-year certificate program graduates the option to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a reduced per credit rate equivalent to the total cost of a Golisano education.
The first partnership of its kind for both institutions creates a path from a professional certificate program into transfer credits that will directly apply up to 48 credits toward a choice of four Syracuse bachelor’s programs: creative leadership, business management, knowledge management and liberal studies.
Founded and fully funded by Tom Golisano, Golisano Institute provides a two-year certificate program aimed at making a premier business education accessible for all. The Institute will open this fall to welcome its first class of students.
“We are proud to partner with Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies to ensure that Golisano Institute graduates have the option to transfer credits earned here toward a Syracuse bachelor’s degree,” said Ian Mortimer, president of Golisano Institute. “Our shared mission to deliver a high-quality educational experience for tomorrow’s business leaders and entrepreneurs while providing access to learners of all walks of life makes this the ideal partnership.”
ACC News
FSU football: Noles have the best defensive secondary in the ACC? (chopchat.com; Hunt)
The FSU football defense was much better than folks(even some supposed FSU media) want to give credit in 2022. The context of FSU having to play several games without Fabien Lovett and with Jared Verse operating around 75 percent tells more of the story.
Most of the flaws in the defense were a direct result of those injuries, coupled with the lack of depth. Some folks have said the secondary stats were misleading or not accurate, while others have said the secondary doesn’t know how to play zone defense.
Both statements are not true. Did the secondary leave some plays on the field? Absolutely, there are several I’d like to have back from last year.
The defense should be even better in 2023 with the added talent and depth along the defensive line. FSU returns both starting linebackers, but the loss of 2X All-ACC safety Jammie Robinson will be hard to replace.
With that, ESPN’s David Hale stated he beleived FSU had the best secondary in the ACC last year, and will have the best secondary in 2023:
...
Southern Methodist University (RX; HM)
Southern Methodist University
The Pony Express rides again!
"SMU: 5th largest media market, very deep pockets, strong academic profile, fertile recruiting grounds, historic program." - Pony Up Dallas
I'll be honest, when I think of SMU, I think of Eric Dickerson. I also think of the NCAA Death Penalty (something which I'm confident will never happen again!). I think of a private school in Dallas with lots of money and a passion for football. All of those things are what makes SMU a great expansion candidate.
Southern Methodist University Profile
Location: University Park, TexasFounded: 1911
Type: Private research university
Enrollment: 11,649
Endowment: $2.0 billion
Nickname: Mustangs
Religious Affiliation: United Methodist Church
...
https://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/article276865083.html (newsobserver.com; Hricik)
School’s out for the summer, and that means it’s time for the busiest month of the year for recruitment. June is filled with official visits, camps, tours, meetings and phone calls for college football hopefuls and coaches alike.
And in the past four weeks, the Triangle has seen its fair share of 2024 commitments: UNC, NC State and Duke have had a combined 28 through the end of June.
The earliest these new commits can sign their National Letter of Intent is Dec. 20, but the declarations to date give fans of all three schools something to look forward to during the summer months.
Here’s a brief look where Carolina, Duke and NC State stand with their most recent commitments.
NORTH CAROLINA
The Tar Heels have stayed in the middle of the pack for summer recruitment, at least thus far. Head coach Mack Brown has seven June commitments to bring his total to 20 on the Class of 2024 roster. Carolina now ranks 16th nationally in recruiting class, per 247Sports.
Brown has recruited quite a few offensive lineman, with a decent mix of defensive positions. He’s secured two four-star recruits thus far, running back Davion Gause and cornerback Zion Ferguson. Gause, originally from Florida, is the No. 51 recruit in the state and No. 28 at his position, while Ferguson is No. 38 in Georgia and No. 26 as a running back, according to 247Sports.
There are three “athletes” listed for Carolina — players who can play multiple positions at their respective high schools, and were willing to market themselves for any of those positions. In most cases, head coaches have an idea of where these athletes play, but fans won’t know until these newcomers join the program.
For the Tar Heels, these athletes are Curtis Simpson, Carlos Mitchell Jr. and Khail Conley.
DUKE
Of the three Triangle schools, the Blue Devils by far have been the most active. Duke holds 16 commitments through June, bringing its total for the Class of 2024 to 20, and recently picked up a four-star quarterback from Indiana. Duke is now the No. 26 overall class nationally, but it will likely fluctuate as we get closer to signing day.
Duke’s two four-star recruits for 2024 at the moment are quarterback Tyler Cherry and safety Paul Mencke Jr., both of whom have committed in the past two months. Cherry ranks as the No. 5 quarterback in the state, and No. 27 at his position, while Mencke Jr. is No. 65 in his home state, Texas, and No. 35 at his position.
Head coach Mike Elko has started developing a trend with his recruits, picking up a number of offensive linemen and some depth in the defensive backfield. However, he does have two “athletes” listed as commitments, in Landan Callahan and Da’Vontae Floyd.
NC STATE
The Pack has been the quietest of the three schools, sealing five commitments throughout June for a total 10 commitments for next season. NCSU sits at No. 56 nationally for its recruiting class.
There’s only one committed four-star recruit, Ronnie Royal III from Gulf Shores, Alabama. He’s a brand new catch for the Pack, committing just a week ago. Royal III is also the only listed “athlete” of the bunch, but standing at 5-foot-9 and 170 pounds, he became the No. 22 player in Georgia and No. 31 at his position heading into his senior season.
NC State has received commitments mainly from running backs, cornerbacks and safeties so far. The Pack does have a quarterback committed, Florida’s Cedrick Bailey, as well as a few linebackers, but the running backs hold the majority.
...
ACC Announces 2023-24 Conference Leadership (theacc.com)
The Atlantic Coast Conference and its Board of Directors have announced the 2023-24 conference leadership structure.
University of Virginia President James E. Ryan will begin the first year of his two-year term as the league’s Chair of the Board of Directors and will be joined by University of North Carolina Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz as the Vice-Chair. ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips serves as the Conference's Chief Executive Officer.
“It is an honor to serve the conference as chair of the ACC Board of Directors, and I very much look forward to working with my colleagues and Commissioner Phillips in this role," Ryan said. “Our league remains committed to first-rate academics and first-rate athletics, and to ensuring that all of our priorities are accomplished with the utmost integrity.”
“The amazing leadership at our 15 member institutions is one of the ACC’s greatest assets,” Phillips said. “The past year saw many positive developments for our conference, including the endorsement of the league’s success incentives initiative, the relocation of the conference office headquarters to Charlotte, and winning nine national titles. To be certain, I look forward to a tremendous year working with the entire Board lead by President Ryan and Chancellor Guskiewicz.”
The Conference’s Executive Committee will include Ryan, Guskiewicz, Boston College President William Leahy, Miami President Julio Frenk, Virginia Tech President Timothy Sands and Wake Forest President Susan Wente. The remaining Board of Directors members are represented on other key committees such as Finance, Audit and Autonomy and will rotate onto the Executive Committee as terms expire.
The Chair of the Faculty Athletic Representatives for the 2023-24 academic year will be Sheila Vélez Martínez (University of Pittsburgh). John Wildhack (Syracuse University) will be the Chair of the Athletics Directors, and Amy Calabrese (Louisville) will serve as the Chair of the Senior Woman Administrators.
The ACC adopted changes to its constitution and bylaws in 2020 that officially established the 15 league presidents and chancellors as the ACC’s Board of Directors. Previous Board chairs include Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud (2020-21) and Duke University President Vincent E. Price (2021-22, 2022-23).
https://athlonsports.com/college-football/virginia-football-cavaliers-prediction-preview-2023 (athlonsports.com; Staff)
Virginia finished 3-7 in coach Tony Elliott's debut, and there's no guarantee the going is any easier in '23. The Cavaliers return just nine starters and have major question marks on offense. Monmouth transfer Tony Muskett is expected to start at quarterback, but Elliott has to guide the offense through significant transition at receiver and along the offensive line. Although the offense may struggle, the outlook is better on defense. Six of the team's nine returning starters come on this side of the ball, including All-ACC candidates in Chico Bennett (end), Aaron Faumui (tackle), and safety Antonio Clary (safety).
Previewing Virginia's Offense for 2023
Tony Elliott’s offensive background didn’t exactly pay dividends in Year 1 as the head coach at Virginia. The transition from an Air Raid-style attack to Elliott’s pro-style, timing-based offense was a disaster. Year 2 could be even worse. UVa will be breaking in a new quarterback; it has to replace its top four wide receivers; and it must rebuild its offensive line.Tony Muskett, a transfer from FCS Monmouth, likely will take over for record-setting quarterback Brennan Armstrong following Armstrong’s in-conference transfer to NC State. Dual-threat option Jay Woolfolk, also a pitcher on the school’s baseball team, should have opportunities to contribute as well.
Elliott wants to establish the running game, and with Perris Jones, Mike Hollins and Xavier Brown returning (790 combined yards), Amaad Foston back from injury and Clemson transfer Kobe Pace joining the group, the RB unit figures to be the strength of the offense. But the run game may only be as strong as the offensive line, and that group is a major question mark.
...
Big Updates on Boston College Football Recruiting. ACC/SEC Challenge Opponent Revealed! (youtube.com; podcast; Locked on Boston College)
Boston College football recruiting wraps up a busy June, and on today's show we talk about some of the big targets that Jeff Hafley and his staff are still targeting. Also BC will face Vanderbilt in the ACC/SEC Challenge, and Will Smith, Gabe Perrault and Ryan Leonard all drafted in the first round of the NHL Draft heading to the San Jose Sharks, Washington Capitals and New York Rangers.
2022-23 Director's Cup Final Standings (RX; HM)
2022-23 Director's Cup Final Standings
From the official ACC release of Wednesday, June 28, 2023...
Six ACC Schools Among Top 20 of Final Division I LEARFIELD Cup Standings
Six ACC schools are ranked among the top 20 of the final Division I LEARFIELD College Directors’ Cup standings announced Wednesday.Virginia led all ACC schools with a fourth-place finish, led by a third consecutive NCAA women’s swimming and diving championship and a second consecutive NCAA men’s tennis championship.
North Carolina joined the Cavaliers among the top 10 in eighth place, followed by Duke (16th), Florida State (17th), NC State (19th) and Notre Dame (20th). The ACC’s six schools among this year’s top 20 are the second-most of any conference.
Louisville (32nd place), Wake Forest (42nd), Syracuse (45th) and Miami (49th) give the ACC 10 institutions among the top 50. They are closely followed by Clemson (51st), Pitt (52nd) and Virginia Tech (55th).
...
UCF Coach DESTROYED by FSU UF & Miami for INSANE Stance (youtube; podcast; No Fries)
Gus Malzahn made a comment this week about the Big 3 and UCF's place within the state. Here's why he's INSANE and the critical INFO you need NOW!
Other
Kyle Mastropietro (left) and Jesse Canestrare outside of Kasai on Tuesday, days before it will close. (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com)Charlie Miller
2 Armory Square restaurants closing as owner searches for new downtown location (PS; $; Miller)
Two restaurants in Syracuse’s Armory Square will close this week as the owner searches for a new location downtown.
Kasai, a modern fusion restaurant 218 Walton St. that specializes in ramen dishes, will serve its last meal Friday night, said owner and chef Kyle Mastropietro. Danny’s Steaks, his cheesesteak restaurant next door, shut down for good on Tuesday. The two ghost kitchens that prepare food ordered online exclusively for delivery or pick-up at Danny’s — Decir Algo and Salt City Smash Burger — have also closed.
The leases of the two storefronts at the end of Walton Street were up for renewal at the end of the month, and Mastropietro decided to look for a better spot for less money.
“I don’t want to leave here,” Mastropietro said Tuesday while sitting at Kasai’s bar. “I have put my heart and soul into this place, and I have nothing but great memories here. But it doesn’t make sense to stay.”
Kasai opened five years ago on a $50,000 investment. Danny’s opened at the end of 2021. Mastropietro said he several times had offered building owner Tom Fabbioli to purchase the property, but he declined.
...
Scrod Christopher at Sherwood Inn (Danielle Benjamin | Contributing Writer)
The Sherwood Inn pleases the palate from the first sip to the last bite (Dining Out Review) (PS; Benjamin)
Next time you’re looking for a dinner spot that checks all of the boxes, look no further than The Sherwood Inn in Skaneateles. On a recent visit to one of the charming village’s oldest restaurants, we enjoyed excellent service and delicious, creative bites throughout our dinner.
Located in the heart of Skaneateles, The Sherwood Inn dates back to 1807, and has had a colorful history over the course of two centuries. Stepping foot inside the historic building immediately takes you back in time with the unique character of the building. Originally built as a tavern, The Sherwood Inn continues to provide dining and lodging experiences for locals and travelers alike.
One of the best fine dining experiences in the greater Syracuse area, The Sherwood also offers a more casual option at the tavern, whose entrance is just across the lobby from the higher-end eatery.
Seated quickly at a table by the window, overlooking scenic Skaneateles Lake, we started with a basket of bread — stretch bread and blue cheese focaccia from the bakery next door — which we devoured.
The Sherwood menu boasts a wealth of drink options, including beer, wine and craft cocktails. For the first round we opted for a variety of cocktails. Featuring vodka and a mix of fruits, May Flowers ($12) transported me to the beach with its blue color and tropical flavors. My companions ordered a Sherwood Manhattan ($14), the Pomegranate Sparkler ($12) and a Mezcal Margarita ($12). They were all well-crafted with flavors that emphasized yet complemented the alcohols.
...
