NCAA 2005: The University of Houston Cougars and NMEU Eagles

[qb8stunner]

Hey guys! Here is my new thread for my NCAA 2005 Dynasties. I'm still playing with the University of Houston Cougars and Northern Maine Eagles. In addition, my former coach at UH has taken over the reins of the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks, a Division I-AA team that I moved up to Division I-A. I'm not going to play their games but I am basically going to try and turn the team into a successful program. The Texas State Bobcats and Sam Houston Bearkats were also moved into Division I-A play (since my brother and friend will be, or are going to, those school, respectively), replacing the New Mexico State Aggies and Utah State Aggies in the Sun Belt. Northern Arizona took the place of Florida International in the Independent Division. My Northern Maine University (NMEU) Eagles also replaced an Independent, Florida Atlantic.

I am playing on the Heisman level with adjusted sliders for the CPU. I've tried to make it the most even as possible and I judge that the gameplay is fair when both teams (human and AI) have receivers who catch passes when they are wide open and runningbacks who are productive. I play twelve minute quarters and, like stated in my Madden Franchise report, I alternate bewteen the NFL and NCAA depending on the scheduling date. So, unfortunately, there will be about a month's worth of time (4 NFL games) when I will not be able to play NCAA until the Bowl games.

I hope all of you who read this enjoy my trip into the imagination. Be prepared to be entertained I will be posting the Media Guides for both schools real soon, so keep your eyes open!!

[titansrule]

ill look forward to hearing about it...although for some reason i prefer the texans ones, still ill be glad to hear from you

[SenorMatt24]

Awesome QB8, good luck....can't wait!

[qb8stunner]

In February of 2002, Ian Sterling was given the reins of a University of Houston program that had finished at the bottom of Conference USA the previous season with an 0-11 record. Since then, Houston had not been the same.

After seven years of rebuilding, reshaping, and creating an identity, UH said goodbye to their coach. Sterling had led his team to a record of 62-22 during his tenure, which also included three conference titles and six bowl games (all wins). A true professional at heart and an individual concerned with bringing out the best in those he teaches, the second most winningest coach in school history decided to find another challenge and a program to turn around. His departure to Northern Arizona University, a new Division I-A contender, has closed the door on an era of powerful Cougar football, but opens another door to endless possibilities.

Enter Art Briles. The former high school football coach in Stephenville, Texas, assistant coach at Texas Tech, and offensive coordinator the last six years under Sterling, now has his own team. With it, he inherits several young, talented athletes who have experienced winning.

Briles has assured Coog faithful that the program will strive to remain a contender, after ranking in the Top 25 the past several years. His offensive style will spread the field and dictate the flow of the game while his defense will aim to limit opposing team's effectiveness with quickness.

"I've been here with all of these guys, so we know each other," coach Briles commented. "Our goal is to continue the legacy that coach Sterling left us and become an even better team. The sky's the limit and the guys on this team know that. We want to redefine and uphold excellence."

OFFENSE
The success of the offense will depend on it's effeciency. With the departure of quarterback Donald Morales, true sophomore Kevin Kolb will take control of the offensive unit. A star quarterback in high school, Kolb is familiar with the system that coach Briles will inact, having played in it shortly after Briles departed Stephenville High School. Despite his youth, Kolb has a ton of potential in addition to a powerful arm, clear vision, and terrific awareness. Kendal Briles, coach Briles' son, will serve as a backup and option quarterback alongside redshirt freshman Duke Dennison, another mobile signal caller.

Halfback Anthony Evans will attempt to revitalize a lacking Cougar running game. One of the top high school running backs in the state of Texas, Evans had awaited his turn on the sideline and has been given the starting nod ahead of senior Greg English. Evans' durability and toughness should provide Houston with a consistent ground game. Fullback Jackie Battle can also serve as running back and has quick instincts and vision on the field.

The receiving corp for UH is the strongest unit on the offensive side of the ball. The top four receivers all have quality experience and possess the skills required to help the offense work. The key component is the return of star wideout Hank Dickson, who has excelled in Briles' system and has become an all-around threat to opposing defensive backs. He will be complemented by true junior Vincent Marshall. Where he lacks in size, Marshall makes up for it in speed, agility, and catching. Both reserves, Chance Chapman and Jamahl Dennis, are talented receivers who have starting experience. Stephen Cucci, a preseason Conference-USA All-American at the tightend position, will take over the position duties from Simeon Chatfield, who will serve in two tightend sets and the occasional receiver. Cucci's catching ability will provide Kolb with another passing threat when his receivers are not open.

The biggest question mark for the Houston offense is their offensive line. Last season, the line allowed numerous sacks and pressure. Of those linemen, only one returns as a starter (RG Justin Westgate). Although there is quallity talent in the line, the lack of gel-time might damage their effectiveness. They will have to work together closely in order to give Kolb time in the pocket in addition to providing Anthony Evans ample running room.

DEFENSE
The strong point for the University of Houston football program over the last few years had been it's defense. That trend continues into the new season. With returning defensive end Garrett Garland and the addition of phenomenal senior Joe Clay at the opposite end, the front four will have plenty of opportunities to contain and harass opposing offenses. Defensive tackles Ernie Levine and Ron Rogers are both big bodies with exceptional talent who will clog the middle of the line.

Utilizing three linebackers, UH will return one starter while receiving an upgrade at the left outside spot in Lance Everson. Everson will take over from Colby Timmons, who will provide starting depth in the reserves. Middle linebacker Eric Chang has proven his worth by providing excellent play as a backup the past three years. Pierre Gardner returns at the weak side, where he had become known to be a solid tackler and run stopper.

With half of the starting secondary returning, the Cougar's defensive backfiled looks to be the silent yet deadly type. Corner Jahmal Andrews shifts from the left side to the right side as former dime back Brian Magee is inserted in the starting lineup. Perrenial All-American speedster Jeremy Johnson maintains his prescence as the defense's nickleback where he has become a threat through blitzing and coverage. Strong safety WIll Crenshaw returns at his position and will be complemented by true junior Will Gulley at the free safety spot, both hard-hitting, determined players.

SPECIAL TEAMS
Sophomore kicker Chester Betts will take a back seat this season to redshirt senior Dustin Bell, one of the more accurate kickers in the NCAA. Bell, a transfer, can serve as both kicker and punter. Fortunately, returning punter Aaron Williams will retain his duties on fourth down.

Returnman Jeremy Johnson has earned his reputation as one of the most prolific returners in the NCAA. His speed, acceleration, and agility make him a marauding threat at the end of any kick or punt.

FINAL ANALYSIS
With the likes of Oklahoma, Miami, and UCLA on this season's schedule, Houston will have their work cut out for them during non-conference play. After starting undefeated last season then going 1-3 at the end of their C-USA schedule, UH will have to reestablish themselves as the conference's premier team. It has been two years since the university last claimed the Conference USA trophy.

Look for coach Art Briles to spread the field and create dominance early. Continuing a tradition set by Ian Sterling is on the top of every Coogs' fan's list.
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THE FACTS
Coach: Art Briles (1st Season)
2009 Record: 9-3 (Won in New Orleans Bowl)
2009 C-USA Record: 5-3 (4th)
'09 I-A Offensive Ranking:
Passing: T37th (248.3ypg)
Rushing: 106th (92.2ypg)
'09 I-A Defensive Ranking:
Passing: 47th (214.9ypg)
Rushing: 2nd (58.4ypg)

2010-11 SCHEDULE
1) Bye Week
2) AT Rice
3) AT Oklahoma
4) Army
5) Miami
6) AT Memphis
7) AT Southern Miss
8) Bye Week
9) AT TCU
10) Tulane*
11) ECU
12) AT UAB
13) Louisville
14) UCLA
15) Bye Week
{* denotes the Homecoming Game}
{Blue represents C-USA games}

TWO-DEEP DEPTH CHART
Offense {returning starters colored}
QB: 4 Kevin Kolb (so).................15 Kendal Briles (jr-rs)
HB: 6 Anthony Evans (jr-rs).........33 Greg English (sr-rs)
FB: 27 Jackie Battle (so-rs).........47 Timmy Johnson (fr)
WR:84 Hank Dickson (sr-rs)........83 Jamahl Dennis (so-rs)
WR:17 Vincent Marshal (jr)..........9 Chance Chapman (sr)
TE: 85 Stephen Cucci (sr-rs)........87 Simeon Chatfield (jr-rs)
LT: 75 Phil Hawkins (sr-rs)...........74 Donald Fitzpatrick (sr)
LG: 71 Roy Swan (jr)...................74 Donald Fitzpatrick (sr)
OC:70 David Douglas (jr-rs)..........64 Nick Hopkins (fr)
RG: 79 Justin Westgate (jr-rs)......76 Joe Pope (jr)
RT: 77 Scott Byrd (jr-rs)..............74 Donald Fitzpatrick (sr)

Defense {returning starters colored}
LE: 90 Joe Clay (sr)....................88 Kendrick Goss (sr-rs)
NT: 94 Ernie Levine (sr-rs)
DT: 99 Ron Rogers (sr)................96 Brian Ricks (fr-rs)
RE: 58 Garrett Garland (jr-rs)........93 Eddie McCray (so)
LL: 44 Lance Everson (sr)............95 Colby Timmons (so-rs)
ML: 52 Eric Chang (sr)................48 Pat Minor (so-rs)
RL: 53 Pierre Gardner (so-rs).......95 Colby Timmons (so-rs
CB: 5 Jahmal Andrews (jr-rs)........8 Stanford Routt (jr-rs)
CB: 2 Brian Magee (jr-rs).............41 Jeremy Johnson (jr-rs)
FS: 18 Will Gulley (jr)..................37 Dominic Chandler (fr-rs)
SS: 28 Will Crenshaw (jr-rs).........24 Dexter Harris (sr)

Special Teams {returning starters colored}
K: 7 Dustin Bell (sr-rs)
P: 40 Aaron Williams (sr)
kr:41 Jeremy Johnson (jr-rs)
pr:41 Jeremy Johnson (jr-rs)

[titansrule]

nice team

Awesome...great preview of the season. I'm glad to see you put my SHSU Bearkats and the Southland Conference Rival TX State Bobcats in their. Good luck!

[SenorMatt24]

Tough schedule, hopefully you can pull out the C-USA title

[qb8stunner]

I made a mistake. If I am going to base my dyanasties from the first year I made them (in NCAA 2003, which would be the 2002-2003 season), then the year of this Dynasty should be 2010-2011. The years won't match Madden, but in all actuality, the players on my Houston and NMEU teams are from a lineage that began in the 2002-3 season. I gotta be fair to my guys.

[SenorMatt24]

Haha I wouldn't have ever caught that....

[Slayer]

Great preview. It will be a tough schedule, but I am sure you can have a very successful season. Oh yeah, I must mention that your stud HB, Anthony Evans, came from Pearland. He holds the #2 All-Time Rushing Record in the state of Texas...only behind UT's Cedric Benson. Good to see an Oiler making it in the NCAA.

[qb8stunner]

During Northern Maine's first year in Division I-A, coach Byron Fields inspired his team to rebound from a 3-3 record to finish the inaugural season with a six game winning streak and a bowl bid. Since then, Field's and his Eagle team have put together consecutive winning seasons.

Even though the trend continued in 2009, the team experienced its worst outcome in its seven year history. Despite starting strong after losing against highly ranked Virginia Tech in week one, the Eagle's rolled to an 8-1 record before losing to the number one team, and eventual national champion, Miami Hurricanes in overtime during week ten. It was from that point on when the team from Presque Isle, Maine, began scraping the bottom of the barrell. During the last four games of the season, the Eagle's lost hold of their perrenial bowl invitation and went into the offseason as a team looking for it's old identity.

The 9-4 season would not provide any help for NMEU entering the recruitment period. Many people viewed the one time National Champions as a program on the decline with enough prosperous athletes on the roster to carry them on for a few more seasons.

"We try not to listen to the critics," coach Fields spoke during an interview. "We've taught these student athletes here in our program the importance of pride and fortitude. Despite any problem or obstacle, we have faith in each other to play Eagle brand of football. Every team has their ups and downs and we're doing our best to hold it together. But we're going to do that as a team."

"Team" is an important word around Northern Maine's athetic department and halls. Even future professional stars like runningback Hugh Aguirre uses the word on a daily basis.

"This program is a special program. We do everything together. Last season didnt go as we all had planned, but the important thing is that we got through it together. Everyone on this team knows that if we fail, the team fails. It isn't any one individual. We have each other's backs and we're in this for the long haul. Bowl games and national championships, although great, are just another thing. We're in this for the other guys in the lockerroom and practice field. If we work together, we'll win together."

It would be an understatement to say that NMEU would not need teamwork to regain their spot as contender. Despite anyone's encouraging words, Maine's finest will have to work as one in order to be successful in the upcoming season.

OFFENSE
The Eagle offense had long been known as a ground attack, time consuming regime. Last season, as the running game began to falter, three-year starting quarterback Isaiah Gilbert took the reins and displayed a potent air assault despite lackluster receivers. Unfortunately for Northern Maine, Gilbert graduated with the Class of 2009 along with both of his backups. As a result, there will be no doubt that the position of signal-caller is up for grabs. Starting a new quarterback will not be easy but coach Fields is fortunate to have a former Division I-AA veteran awaiting his chance. Redshirt Sophomore Kelley Simpson (Elon Phoenix) definately has the upperhand ahead of another transfer quarterback in Ellis McCloud (Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks). Still yet, whoever wins the starting role this season is more than likely just keeping the seat warm for freshman Jarad Holloway, an all-state quarterback from Pennsylvania. Although Holloway will undergo his redshirt season, his prescence will turn up the heat in the race for the starting quarterback spot.

The one position not under the microscope for NMEU is their very talented backfield. Led by Heisman hopeful Hugh Aguirre, the runningback corp has been a strength of Northern Maine's offense since the university's inception into Division I-A. With questionable talent at receiver, and a new starting quarterback, Aguirre, backup Colby Mitchell, and fullbacks Kevin Hubbard and Zach Banks will have their hands full pacing the offense. Hugh Aguirre should become a multi-talented threat after steadily improving his receiving game over the past seasons. The team's success scoring points will rest on the shoulderpads of one of the best 'backs in the NCAA.

Despite having size and speed, the Eagle's receivers harbor most of the critics' questions concerning consistent talent. Starters Anthony Brock and Paul Downs have yet to prove that they can be dependable. Downs, a Freshman All-American three seasons ago as a starter, returns to the starting spotlight after being redshirted a year and serving as a backup the previous season. His size (6-6) is a big bonus and his ability to make awkward catches is his forte. This redshirt junior has the most talent at the position and should prove his worth. Brock, on the other hand, is known for dropping too many key receptions. With an offseason of improvement under his belt, he should make his senior year worth remembering. With the graduation of receiving tight-end Jordan Burnette, blocking specialist Shane Simon will remain on the field on all downs. An elite run blocker, Simon must learn to contribute with his hands in order to assist an offense in its rebuilding stage.

Much like the runningbacks, the offensive line of NMEU is a solid unit on offense. Despite only returning two starters, the hogs have experience and strength. The strongest portion of the line will be the right side, where returning starters Mike Byrd (OG) and Ike Harmon (OT) are two of the best protectors in college football. Both are set to have All-American years. The other three-fifths of the line consists of players who have grown behind others with the quality of Byrd and Harmon. Still yet, no matter what talent level they possess, it will be essential for the front five to create running room and to protect the new quarterback despite any troubles he may experience.

DEFENSE
Running a pro-level 3-4 defense, coach Fields has created a defensive monster out of the eleven players on that side of the ball. The five returning starters will be complemented by high quality transfers and potential-laden recruits. After being inside of the top ten on total defense for the past several seasons, high expectations remain for the vaunted "Birds of Prey."

The front three is anchored by big body senior Carnell Bryant, a nose tackle with a nose for the ball. Alongside Bryant will start ends Robert Hogan and London Quinn. Quinn, a junior transfer from Maine, looks to be a high powered pass rusher with incredible hands and awareness. Robert Hogan had filled in the voids during his last three years becoming a dependable backup. His role on the defense will now allow him the unabated chance to showcase his skills on every down. Reserve defensive tackles Terrance Mayer and Mickey Lang will alternate playing time when the defense shifts into a front four set. Both are exceptional athletes with starting caliber skills. With as much depth as the defensive line possesses, it should be one of the most feared lines in college football.

By using the 3-4 and 4-4 defenses, Northern Maine had created a talent for grooming quick, hard-hitting, reliable, and powerful linebackers. Although the unit does not have the quality of those in the past, they should still remain the key in NMEU's defensive strength. Returning starters Scott Medina (MLB) and Derek Fletcher (OLB) will be paired with transfer sophomore Warren Oliver (Georgia Tech) and Junior Brian Moses. All four men have proven their worth in past play and are more than prepared to anchor the norotious defense.

The "Dirty Birds" of the Eagle's defense, the defensive backs, will start two players with the potential to become shut-down corners. Thomas Hendricks returns as a starter but will shift from the left side of the field to the right. His partner will be a gifted corner from the University of Texas named Charley Todd. After sitting out the required year for transfers from another Division I-A school, Todd is prepared to display his skills and make a statement. His quick vision, confident hands and feet, and strength should make this sophomore one to watch. Behind Hendricks and Todd are reserves with little experience. Deon Armstead will reprise his role as the nickle back but beyond him, the talent drops. Ball-hawk strong safety Johnny Roberts will be back as the starter and will be joined by hard-hitting transfer Edmond Donley. With the front seven being expected to force opposing teams into third and long situations, the need for consistent play from the defensive backfield is essential.

SPECIAL TEAMS
Sophomore kicker Brennan Johnson will return as the team's place kicker after a very good freshman year. Last season, Johnson converted 18 of 22 field goals with a long of forty-four yards. Northern Maine will be well stocked at the punter position with redshirt freshman Sergio Grimes and former walk-on, junior redshirt Chad Carswell. With above average leg strength, Carswell should hold the starting position.

Receiver Anthony Brock will have another chance to become a dependable returnman after a disappointing last season. Joining him will be reserve halfback Colby Mitchell who will experience returning kicks for the first time in his career.

FINAL ANALYSIS
With the key component in the Eagle gameplan returning for his final year (Hugh Aguirre), Northern Maine should bounce back from a disappointing ending last season. Despite the struggles in the past, NMEU remains one of the most potent and dangerous teams in the NCAA. Teamwork will be essential in their quest for success. The team will either win as one, or lose as one.
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THE FACTS
Coach: Byron Fields (8th Season)
2009 Record: 9-4
'09 I-A Offensive Ranking:
Passing: T75th (200.5ypg)
Rushing: 44th (169.1ypg)
'09 I-A Defensive Ranking:
Passing: 42nd (211.7ypg)
Rushing: 1st (49.3ypg)

2010-11 SCHEDULE
1) Bye Week
2) Maine**
3) AT Missouri
4) Bye Week
5) West Virginia
6) Nevada
7) AT Colorado State
8) AT UL Monroe
9) Texas State
10) Bye Week
11) AT Ball State
12) UConn
13) AT Northern Arizona
14) AT Army
15) Cal*
{* denotes the Homecoming Game}
{** denotes a Rilvary Game}

TWO-DEEP DEPTH CHART
Offense {returning starters colored}
QB: 14 Kelley Simpson (so-rs)........15 Ellis McCloud (jr-rs)
HB: 37 Hugh Aguirre (sr-rs).............26 Colby Mitchell (so)
FB: 31 Kevin Hubbard (sr-rs)...........44 Zach Banks (so)
WR:81 Anthony Brock (sr)..............87 Carlos Simmons (so-rs)
WR:89 Paul Downs (jr-rs)................4 Lou Bright (so-rs)
TE: 83 Shane Simon (sr).................82 Sammy Feeney (fr-rs)
LT: 75 Tim Paris (so-rs)..................73 Ryan Garner (so-rs)
LG: 77 Charles Mitchell (fr-rs)..........63 Steven Green (so-rs)
OC:58 William Spears (so)..............63 Steven Green (so-rs)
RG: 61 Mike Byrd (sr-rs).................70 Clayton McDermond (so-rs)
RT: 71 Ike Harmon (sr-rs)................72 J.R. Moody (fr-rs)

Defense {returning starters colored}
LE: 99 Robert Hogan (jr-rs)..............93 Anthony Foreman (so-rs)
NT: 97 Carnell Bryant (sr-rs)............96 Terrance Mayer (jr)
RE: 98 London Quinn (jr-rs)..............93 Anthony Foreman (so-rs)
LL: 6 Warren Oliver (so-rs)..............42 Mike Molina (fr-rs)
LM: 35 Aaron Patterson (so-rs)........43 Brian Moses (jr)
RM: 53 Scott Medina (sr-rs)
RL: 40 Derek Fletcher (so-rs)...........55 Donald Webb (sr)
CB: 20 Thomas Hendricks (sr-rs)......7 Daven Erickson (fr)
CB: 27 Charley Todd (so-rs).............9 Deon Armstead (so)
FS: 30 Edmond Donley (jr-rs)...........28 Harvey Weiss (so-rs)
SS: 29 Johnny Roberts (jr)...............25 Jarrod Rich (so-rs)

Special Teams {returning starters colored}
K: 12 Brennan Johnson (so)
P: 18 Chad Carswell (jr)....................47 Sergio Grimes (fr-rs)
kr:81 Anthony Brock (sr)..................26 Colby Mitchell (so)
pr:81 Anthony Brock (sr)..................26 Colby Mitchell (so)