Archived from MVN.com (2007)
Tom Brady got possibly the highest award in all of sports by leading the Michigan Wolverines team to the First Annual MVN All-Alumni Tournament championship. Michigan pulled 63% of the vote to knock off the Tennessee Volunteers led by Peyton Manning.

Michigan was led by Tom Brady and a talented offensive line featuring Steve Hutchinson, Jeff Backus, Jon Runyan and Jon Jansen. The dominant offensive line was key in a tournament run where they faced several talented defensive lines, including Georgia (Seymour, Stroud, Grant, Geathers) and Tennessee (Little, Henderson, Haynesworth, Ellis). Braylon Edwards breakthrough year was a big factor in establishing a proven target for Brady to rely upon.

On the defensive side of the ball, having a veteran secondary featuring Charles Woodson, Ty Law, Marlin Jackson and Leon Hall allowed the Wolverines to keep dangerous passing attacks from outscoring the potent Michigan offense.

Several solid teams were hurt by the lack of a proven NFL quarterback, but next year might be a different story as Auburn (Jason Campbell), LSU (JaMarcus Russell), Notre Dame (Brady Quinn) and Ohio State (Troy Smith) all have young quarterbacks in the NFL who are trying to prove themselves.

Until then, thank you for participating.

Below is the Michigan All-Alumni Champion roster, as well as the links to the previous rounds of voting and match-ups.

NCAA Alumni Tournament Introduction
Click above for the intro to the tourney.

The Elite 6
Click above to see the top 6 teams.

The Middle 8
Click above to see the middle 8 teams.

The Bubble 9
Click above to see the 9 teams on the bubble.

Round 1 Match-ups
Click above to see the match-ups from round 1.

Round 1 Results and Round 2 Match-ups
Click above to see the results from round 1 and the round 2 match-ups.

Round 2 Results and Round 3 Match-ups
Click above to see the results from round 2 and the round 3 match-ups.

Round 3 Results and Final Match-ups
Click above to see the results from round 3 and the round 4 match-ups.

Archived from MVN.com (2007)
Wouldn’t it be great if all the NFL players headed back to campus for a week to determine which university has the best Alumni Team? We’re doing it virtually over the next several weeks at MVN.

NCAA Alumni Tournament Introduction
Click above for the intro to the tourney.

The Elite 6
Click above to see the top 6 teams.

The Middle 8
Click above to see the middle 8 teams.

The Bubble 9
Click above to see the 9 teams on the bubble.

Round 1 Match-ups
Click above to see the match-ups from round 1.

Round 1 Results and Round 2 Match-ups
Click above to see the results from round 1 and the round 2 match-ups.

Round 2 Results and Round 3 Match-ups
Click above to see the results from round 2 and the round 3 match-ups.

Here are the results from Round 3:
Tennessee vs Miami
MVN Writers pick Miami
MVN Readers pick Tennessee (64%)
My tiebreak: Tennessee

Michigan vs USC
MVN Writers pick USC
MVN Readers pick Michigan (53%)
My tiebreak: Michigan

The voting was tight, with MVN writers and readers disagreeing on both games. While it might not make me popular with my fellow writers, I happened to agree with the readers on both games. That means the great Hurricane team was finally toppled and the prettyboy Trojans were sent packing.

The top two seeds are going to face off in the final round. Just to add to the irony, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning are also facing off this week for the title of best NFL team.

To rock the vote, hit the poll on the right of the page.

Don’t just pick based on favorites or alma maters, because then this turns into a glorified popularity contest. The reader votes count half, with the MVN writers counting the other half. I’ll break the ties.

If you have any changes to the rosters, post them in the comments below the post.

Onto the game…

1 Tennessee vs 2 Michigan

Match-Up
Michigan brings a great secondary with two coverage safeties in Marlin Jackson and Ty Law to add to the strong tandem of Charles Woodson and Leon Hall at corner. They’ll have to cover, because Michigan’s front four will have trouble getting pressure. Michigan’s lack of a top tier pass rusher is a glaring hole that will be exposed. Given a nice pocket, Peyton Manning will find a receiver and keep the chains moving.
Guess: 31 points

Match-Up
This game will be decided in the trenches, as we have an epic battle between two top lines. If Michigan can give Brady time, he should be able to take advantage of an average Tennessee secondary. With Braylon Edwards proving his worth as a top draft pick, the combination of Edwards/Toomer looks a lot more scary than it did before the season. The corner combo of Greer and Allen looks overmatched, so the game comes down to whether the front four can keep Brady from getting into a rhythm.

Let’s take a closer look. Backus and Jansen are solid NFL starters, but not top tier players. Steve Hutchinson is the best guard in the NFL. Jon Runyan can still play, but he’s a tackle playing guard, so he can be exposed. Dave Pearson is a fringe NFL player at center. On the edge, either Backus or Jansen should be able to handle Shaun Ellis, who hasn’t been the same player the last couple years. Leonard Little put up 13 sacks last year, so he should be able to apply some pressure. Inside, you have a great tackle tandem in Haynesworth and Henderson, both of whom play at a Pro Bowl level. Hutchinson will have his hands full, but should be able to keep one of them in check. The other defensive tackle will have an advantage over Runyan, but will be consistently double-teamed as Hutchinson can be left to play alone. All in all, I see Brady taking an occasional hit, but not enough to get him off his game.
Guess: 34 points

Special Teams Edge: Michigan

Overall
This will be a tight game, but I give Michigan a slight edge. Tennessee has a better defensive line than Michigan, but Michigan’s offensive line is better than Tennessee’s, so I don’t see either match-up being a significant advantage. The running games are about even. The receiving corps both have a couple top line guys with Edwards and Toomer for Michigan and Stallworth and Witten for Tennessee. However, Michigan’s secondary is a notch above Tennessee’s.

It’s going to come down to Brady vs. Manning, and I see Brady having more opportunities to make plays than Manning. Add that Michigan has a proven kicker while Tennessee doesn’t, and I see Michigan holding up the first annual MVN All Alumni Tournament trophy (which is a disco ball that is covered with diamonds).

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

Archived from MVN.com (2007)
Wouldn’t it be great if all the NFL players headed back to campus for a week to determine which university has the best Alumni Team? We’re doing it virtually over the next several weeks at MVN.

NCAA Alumni Tournament Introduction
Click above for the intro to the tourney.

The Elite 6
Click above to see the top 6 teams.

The Middle 8
Click above to see the middle 8 teams.

The Bubble 9
Click above to see the 9 teams on the bubble.

Round 1 Match-ups
Click above to see the match-ups from round 1.

Round 1 Results and Round 2 Match-ups
Click above to see the results from round 1 and the round 2 match-ups.

Here are the results from Round 2:

Tennessee vs Ohio State
MVN Writers pick Tennesee
MVN Readers pick Ohio State (56%)
My tiebreak: Tennessee

Michigan vs Georgia
MVN Writers pick Georgia
MVN Readers pick Michigan (69%)
My tiebreak: Michigan

USC vs Florida State
MVN Writers pick USC
MVN Readers pick USC (57%)

Texas vs Miami
MVN Writers pick Miami
MVN Readers pick Miami (55%)

We’ve got a final four: Tennessee, Michigan, USC and Miami. Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Carson Palmer and um, grunt, Vinny Testaverde. Come on Miami, recruit a QB already. Lets get onto round 2.

To rock the vote, click the NCAA Alumni Tournament graphic on the top right of the page. You should see polls on the right side of the subsequent page. If you don’t see the graphic that means you’re already on the voting page.

Don’t just pick based on favorites or alma maters, because then this turns into a glorified popularity contest. The reader votes count half, with the MVN writers counting the other half. I’ll break the ties.

If you have any changes to the rosters, post them in the comments below the post.

Onto the games…

1 Tennessee vs 5 Miami

Match-Up
The Miami back seven will be the most athletic Manning has seen the whole tournament. However, the best way to beat Manning is with pressure, and Miami doesn’t have the defensive ends to exploit Tennessee’s questionable tackles. Given time to throw, Manning will have success against Antrel Rolle and Kelly Jennings.
Guess: 20 points

Match-Up
This is like a cruel joke. Take four elite athletes and turn them loose on a 43 year old man who couldn’t run well when he was 23. Ouch. Vinny Testaverde will be in the hot tub by the third quarter. The Miami offensive line isn’t good enough to keep these guys at bay. While the Volunteer linebacking corp isn’t outstanding, they’ll be able to keep Portis and company from running wild. While the Miami backs and receivers are unmatched, they need holes and a QB to get them the ball.

Guess: 10 points

Special Teams Edge: Miami

Overall
This match-up couldn’t be worse for the Hurricanes. The one thing they need on defense, namely rush ends, they don’t have. On offense, Tennessee’s strength is their defensive line, which matches up perfectly against Miami’s suspect offensive line and ancient quarterback. Manning will efficiently move the ball and score points. Testaverde will get rag-dolled and turn the ball over. Miami might pop off a big play or two, but it won’t be enough to win this one.

2 Michigan vs 3 USC

Match-Up
Michigan will dominate in the trenches, which will give Mike Hart room to run and Tom Brady time to pick apart a questionable secondary. This will be a long day for the Trojan defenders.

Guess: 31 points

Match-Up
USC will have to nickel and dime their way to scores, as they don’t have a big play threat to challenge a strong Michigan secondary. Reggie Bush and LenDale White will be able to find some creases, but the Trojans don’t have the talent up-front to dominate on the ground. James Hall and LaMarr Woodley will generate some pressure on Carson Palmer, which will allow the playmakers in the secondary to get some picks.
Guess: 17 points

Special Teams Edge: USC

Overall
Michigan’s offensive line is the key to this game, as they will dominate the average USC front. This will allow the Wolverines to control the clock and wear down the USC defense. On the other side of the ball, Carson Palmer won’t be able to find many open targets and will eventually commit some key turnovers.

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

Archived from MVN.com (2007)

Wouldn’t it be great if all the NFL players headed back to campus for a week to determine which university has the best Alumni Team? We’re doing it virtually over the next several weeks at MVN.

NCAA Alumni Tournament Introduction
Click above for the intro to the tourney.

The Elite 6
Click above to see the top 6 teams.

The Middle 8
Click above to see the middle 8 teams.

The Bubble 9
Click above to see the 9 teams on the bubble.

Round 1 Match-ups
Click above to see the match-ups from round 1.

Here are the results from Round 1:

Tennessee over Alabama
MVN Writers 100%
MVN Readers 76%

Michigan over Virginia Tech
MVN Writers 80%
MVN Readers 73%

USC over Oklahoma
MVN Writers 100%
MVN Readers 84%

Texas over Virginia
MVN Writers 100%
MVN Readers 100%

Miami over Notre Dame
MVN Writers 100%
MVN Readers 82%

Florida State over LSU
MVN Writers 80%
MVN Readers 50%

Georgia over Auburn
MVN Writers 60%
MVN Readers 40%
My Tiebreak – Georgia

Ohio State over Florida
MVN Writers 80%
MVN Readers 51%

No surprises, all the higher seeds advance, although the voting was tight on a couple of them. Ohio State won by one reader vote and Florida State and LSU tied among the readers. Texas had none of that, as they swept both the writer and reader voting. Poor UVa simply got steamrolled.

Let’s be honest, there were a couple cream puff teams in the first round that never stood a chance. Now we’ve cut the fat and the next round features four close games. Check out the match-ups below.

To rock the vote, click the NCAA Alumni Tournament graphic on the top right of the page. You should see polls on the right side of the subsequent page. If you don’t see the graphic that means you’re already on the voting page.

Don’t just pick based on favorites or alma maters, because then this turns into a glorified popularity contest. The reader votes count half, with the MVN writers counting the other half. I’ll break the ties.

If you have any changes to the rosters, post them in the comments below the post.

Onto the games…

1 Tennessee vs 8 Ohio State

Match-Up
Peyton Manning gets to test his skills against perhaps the best secondary in the whole tournament. Ohio State will roll out Nate Clements, Antoine Winfield, Chris Gamble and Shawn Springs against the Tennessee three and four receiver sets. The UT line is a bit suspect, so OSU will blitz their LBs and try to beat up Manning. OSU should be able to control the running game, so Manning will have to carry the load.

Guess: 17 points

Match-Up
The Buckeyes will try to pound the ball behind their excellent line. However, Tennessee’s all-world defensive line won’t be pushed around. The match-up of OSU’s receivers against the UT secondary favors the Buckeyes, but I’m not sure that Troy Smith will be able to take advantage of it. He’ll have trouble seeing over the huge Volunteer defensive tackles, who run 6′6″ and 6′7″, while he’s only 6′1″.

Guess: 10 points

Special Teams Edge: Ohio State

Overall
Ohio State’s defense matches up well against Tennessee, with great coverage players and enough pass rush to keep Manning uneasy. However, Troy Smith won’t have it much easier, as Tennessee will stop the run and force him to air it out. In the end, with the game on the shoulders of Peyton Manning and Troy Smith, I think the winner is fairly easy to predict.

2 Michigan vs 7 Georgia

Match-Up
Georgia dispatched of Auburn and their excellent offensive line. Now they get to face the other dominant offensive line in the tournament. After a cakewalk in round 1, Mike Hart will get to feel the wrath of a full-grown NFL defense. Richard Seymour and Marcus Stroud will make running between the tackles a hazardous endeavor. Tom Brady will have to work for his yards, and he fully knows how dangerous it is to throw in Champ Bailey’s direction.

Guess: 16 points

Match-Up
Michigan’s defense matches up well against this offense. They have the speed at linebacker and safety to contain the Georgia tight ends. Charles Woodson and Leon Hall should be able to keep Hines Ward and Reggie Brown in check as well. Georgia will try to establish the run, but Musa Smith is a back-up in the NFL for a reason.

Guess: 10 points

Special Teams Edge: Georgia

Overall
Neither team will be able to rely on their running games to control the ball. So the onus falls on Tom Brady and David Greene to move the ball and score points. Hmmm, three time Super Bowl winner versus an NFL back-up. Tough call.

3 USC vs 6 Florida State

Match-Up
This match-up doesn’t bode well for the Trojans. Kamerion Wimbley and Greg Spires will test the young USC tackles, and Carson Palmer doesn’t move well. Plus, with Ernie Sims, Lawrence Timmons and Derrick Brooks, the Seminoles have plenty of speed to keep Reggie Bush from running wild. With no exploitable mismatches in the secondary, Carson Palmer will have a long day avoiding hits from FSU’s athletic front seven.

Guess: 10 points

Match-Up
Florida State should have plenty of room to run on the edges, with a favorable match-up between Walter Jones and Tra Thomas versus Kenechi Udeze and the ancient Willie McGinest. Warrick Dunn and Leon Washington will take full advantage, running both toss plays and screen passes. Brad Johnson will dink and dunk to his all-star receiving crew, which should have no trouble gaining separation versus Brian Kelly and Daylon McCutcheon.

Guess: 20 points

Special Teams Edge: Florida State

Overall
I’m seeing the first upset of the tournament here. The offensive line is the weak link for USC, and Florida State has the talent to expose it. We all know that if your defensive line can dominate, you can quickly turn a great quarterback into a mediocre one. Against FSU’s deep secondary, Carson Palmer will have the unfortunate combination of no open receivers and a collapsing pocket.

On the other side of the ball, the focus is on the line, and again FSU has a distinct advantage over USC. FSU’s front five will wear down an undersized USC line. This will allow Brad Johnson plenty of opportunity to get the ball to his three-headed monster of Anquan Boldin, Javon Walker, and Laveranues Coles.

Add the fact that USC doesn’t have a legitimate kicker, and you’ve got an upset brewing.

4 Texas vs 5 Miami

Match-Up
Tighten up your laces, because this is going to be some smashmouth football. Texas will attempt to use their massive line and powerful fullback to pound the Hurricanes into submission. However, Miami is strong up the middle, which is where Texas would like to run, and the Hurricane linebackers will be a green and orange swarm on every play. Plus, they have the depth to rotate their whole front seven. I don’t see Vince Young passing for a lot of yards, but he’ll make the occasional key play to keep the chains moving. I’m not convinced that Cedric Benson can be effective against this defense, and with both Ricky Williams and Priest Holmes questionable, he’ll have to carry the load.

Guess: 13 points

Match-Up
Vinny Testaverde better break out the Ben-Gay early for this one. With Shaun Rogers and Casey Hampton plowing up the middle, he’ll get knocked around. Miami will try to keep Texas on their heels by relying on their stable of running backs. While Texas will win a lot of battles up front, they only have one starting caliber NFL linebacker, so Clinton Portis, Frank Gore and Edgerrin James will get some yards, especially outside the tackles. While the deep Texas secondary matches up well against the Miami all-star receivers, those corners won’t be able to contain Andre Johnson, Reggie Wayne and Santana Moss all day.

Guess: 17 points

Special Teams Edge: Miami

Overall
This is a tough call. Miami’s defense will mostly control the Texas offense, but you know that Vince Young will make a play or two along the way. On the other side of the ball, Miami has talent on the edge to score points. However, Vinny Testaverde is old and has never handled pressure well. Miami’s front five is solid, but Texas has three Pro Bowl level players along the line, so they’ll get pressure. If Vinny just protects the ball and hits an occasional throw, they should score enough to win. However, I can also see Vinny fumbling four times and throwing three interceptions to single-handedly lose the game. You pick ‘em.

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

Archived from MVN.com (2007)

Wouldn’t it be great if all the NFL players headed back to campus for a week to determine which university has the best Alumni Team? We’re doing it virtually over the next several weeks at MVN. Here are the previous posts:

NCAA Alumni Tournament Introduction
Click above for the intro to the tourney.

The Elite 6
Click above to see the top 6 teams.

The Middle 8
Click above to see the middle 8 teams.

The Bubble 9
Click above to see the 9 teams on the bubble.

We’ve got our field and our bracket. Virginia Tech and Alabama got off the bubble and made the tourney.

Now it’s time to dissect the match-ups and vote the winners. To vote, click on the NCAA Alumni Tournament graphic on the top right of the page. Cast your vote, and don’t just pick based on favorites or alma maters. The reader votes count half, with the MVN writers counting the other half. I’ll break the ties.

If you have any changes to the rosters, post them in the comments below the post.

1 Tennessee vs 16 Alabama

Match-Up
So much for Peyton Manning and the Volunteers getting a cakewalk in round 1. This defense will give Manning some trouble, as they match up well. The Alabama defensive line should be able to get pressure against Tennessee’s offensive line, which is their best hope of slowing Manning down. While the top two cornerbacks should be able to handle themselves, the three receiver set of Stallworth, Washington and Meacham will give the Alabama nickel defense a big problem.

Guess: 24 points

Match-Up
Anytime Brodie Croyle drops back, the match-up of Shaun Ellis or Leonard Little on the young, unknown Wesley Britt will be noticed. Also, the lack of NFL-level center will be exploited by the combination of Albert Haynesworth and John Henderson. However, if Shaun Alexander can get outside, he might be able to find some running room. Tennessee will bring a safety into the box to force Brodie Croyle into throwing and he doesn’t have a target to make them pay. Alabama’s best hope is to stick with the running game and keep Manning off the field.

Guess: 6 points

Special Teams Edge: Tennessee

Overall
Alabama will try to slow this game down, pound the ball, and keep Peyton Manning and his star receivers off the field. However, their lack of aerial threats combined with Tennessee’s fierce pass rush will make their offense one-dimensional. Combine Haynesworth and Henderson with a safety in the box and Shaun Alexander will have a tough day. Peyton Manning will get pressured some, but in the end will be able to exploit a weak Alabama secondary for some big plays.

2 Michigan vs 15 Virginia Tech

Match-Up
Mike Hart will have a great day in his first opportunity playing against an NFL defense. That’s not only because of his obvious talent, but the complete mismatch of Backus, Hutchinson, Pearson, Runyan and Jansen against Tapp, Lewis, Sandidge and Engelberger. Darryl Tapp is the only NFL starter on the line, while Michigan has three Pro Bowl level linemen, plus Jake Long, a likely top-10 pick in the 2008 draft. A dominant run game will allow Tom Brady opportunity to go play-action for the big play. The Virginia Tech cornerbacks should be able to hold their own against the Michigan receivers, but give Tom Brady ample time and a dominant running game, and he’ll score points.

Guess: 31 points

Match-Up
Michael Vick will be under pressure from the beginning to score points and keep up with Tom Brady. The run game will be marginally effective, as the Tech line will have trouble handling the Michigan front seven. It will be up to Vick to make big plays. While he’ll get his share, Michigan’s defense is athletic enough to keep him from dominating.

Guess: 20 points

Special Teams Edge: Virginia Tech

Overall
Even with a superman performance from Michael Vick, the Hokies will have trouble keeping up with the Wolverines. The Michigan offense will simply dominate the line and control the ball, racking up at least 200 rushing yards. Tom Brady will hit the occasional third-down conversion, plus several back-breaking play-action passes. He won’t even have to put his uniform in for cleaning. Tech could keep it interesting if DeAngelo Hall returns a punt or kick for a TD.

3 USC vs 14 Oklahoma

Match-Up
USC’s biggest weakness is their inexperienced offensive line. They have three 2nd year players, a rookie and one college senior, with only Deuce Lutui having any significant NFL experience. Tommie Harris and Kelly Gregg should dominate the middle, providing both pressure as well as stout run defense. However, Reggie Bush excels on the edge and he should be able to find some room there. Carson Palmer should be able to pick apart a group of cornerbacks that lacks an NFL starter. Unfortunately, his receiving corps lacks a deep threat to punish these corners. Tommie Harris and Roy Williams will have to play like Pro Bowlers to keep this offense in check.

Guess: 20 points

Match-Up
USC will use both Bing and Polamalu near the line to force Jason White to air it out. His line should be able to give him time, but its questionable whether he can make the throws against NFL caliber cornerbacks. I foresee a big game for Adrian Peterson, but I don’t think you can score a bushel of points without an effective passing game.

Guess: 10 points

Special Teams Edge: USC

Overall
Oklahoma is crossing its fingers that Adrian Peterson can make several big plays and their defense can generate some turnovers. Other than Reggie Bush, USC doesn’t have a big-play threat on offense, so they’ll methodically drive the field, which will give Tommie Harris and Roy Williams plenty of opportunity to make a play. With Lofa Tatupu and Troy Polamalu, USC is well positioned to keep a great running back from beating them. I can foresee Reggie Bush putting the game away with a punt return for TD.

4 Texas vs 13 Virginia

Match-Up
This match-up bodes well for Virginia, as Vince Young isn’t an accomplished enough passer to fully exploit a weak Virginia secondary. Patrick Kerney is a key player, as the Virginia secondary won’t be able to hold down Roy Williams and Limas Sweed if Vince Young gets time. Texas will test the will of the Virginia front seven with heavy dose of power running behind a huge front-line. The inexperience at the Virginia defensive tackles will be noticed.

Guess: 24 points

Match-Up
Virginia will want to establish the run, which looks unlikely against the Texas defense. Rogers and Hampton will simply dominate the interior line. The safety combo of Huff and Griffin will be critical, as they will provide both run support as well as coverage on Heath Miller down the middle. Vasher and Jammer should be able to completely blanket the wide receivers. Tiki Barber and Thomas Jones will have to carry this offense, both running and receiving.

Guess: 10 points

Special Teams Edge: Virginia

Overall
This game will feature a lot of running and a lot of punting. The Virginia receiving corps vs. the Texas secondary has to be one of the biggest mismatches so far. Their only true aerial threat is Heath Miller and the combination of Derrick Johnson, Michael Huff and Michael Griffin should be able to neutralize him. I don’t see Virginia completing a pass more than 20 yards downfield all day. Their only hope is that Tiki and/or Thomas can break big plays on runs or screen passes. They won’t be able to grind it out against a deep Texas front-line that should dominate.

The Virginia defense is well situated to face the Texas offense, but they’ll wear down from chasing Vince Young and banging against an enormous offensive line for 60 minutes. I see a fairly close game through three quarters, with Texas dominating the fourth.

5 Miami vs 12 Notre Dame

Match-Up
Wow, this is going to be brutal. You have a couple journeymen cornerbacks going up against Andre Johnson, Santana Moss and Reggie Wayne. Three backup linebackers will be responsible for stopping Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, and Edgerrin James on the ground, and Jeremy Shockey and Kellen Winslow through the air. The only hope for the Irish is that their front-line dominates, which I don’t see happening against a solid Hurricanes line. I can see Bertrand Berry causing a fumble, maybe two, but it won’t be enough to slow this unit down.

Guess: 42 points

Match-Up
Welcome to the NFL Brady Quinn, good luck. The Miami secondary will dominate the receivers, so forget about the downfield passing game. The LB corps of Vilma, Ray and DJ Williams will keep Julius Jones and Jerome Bettis in check. A punt will be a good result for Notre Dame here. I can already see the Miami defense frothing after a fifth Notre Dame turnover.

Guess: 3 points

Special Teams Edge: Miami

Overall
Thanks for coming Notre Dame, enjoy the ride home. I’m wondering if I seeded Miami a bit too low based on their lack of a front-line QB. Charlie Weis will try to hold the ball and keep the Miami all-star offense off the field, but I don’t see that happening against the best Alumni linebacking corps in the tournament. Stay loose Ken Dorsey, the second team will play most of the second half.

6 Florida State vs 11 LSU

Match-Up
Florida State would like to lean on the run, but LSU has the size up-front to handle the talented FSU front-line. However, the linebackers aren’t talented enough to keep Warrick Dunn and Leon Washington completely bottled up. Brad Johnson will have as much time as he needs to exploit his dominant receiving corps against a solid, but not great secondary.

Guess: 24 points

Match-Up
LSU’s gameplan will be to use their strong interior line to establish the inside run, as FSU’s speed will make running outside hazardous. Faneca, Mawae and McClure will give Joseph Addai some interior creases to work with, but the pursuit speed of Sims, Timmons, Brooks, Wimbley will limit any big gainers. FSU has a big advantage in the passing game, as Wimbley and Spires will dominate the weak LSU tackles and their back seven is more than talented enough to handle the LSU receivers.

Guess: 6 points

Special Teams Edge: Florida State

Overall
JaMarcus Russell, while the top pick, is still a rookie QB. Facing a constant pass rush and a good secondary will force turnovers and punts. Brad Johnson will have all day to distribute the ball to his superior playmakers. While he’s a bit weak-armed, players like Dunn, Washington, Boldin and Walker can turn short passes into big gainers. Florida State should easily win this one.

7 Georgia vs 10 Auburn

Match-Up
This is a tough one to predict. The match-up will largely be in the hands of David Greene. The Georgia offensive line should be able to control the weak Auburn front and give him time. However, Carlos Rogers and Roderick Hood will battle Hines Ward and Reggie Brown, so Greene will have to deliver the ball into some tight spots. The formidable Georgia tight ends should be able to exploit a weak safety tandem. Musa Smith will get some holes, but the Auburn linebacking corps will make running difficult.

Guess: 16 points

Match-Up
Wow, this will be clash of the titans on the front-line. 5 Pro Bowlers and 6 first rounders combined on the offensive and defensive lines. The question is, can the Auburn offensive move enough meat to allow Rudi, Cadillac and Ronnie to gain some yards? It’s doubtful they’ll do much through the air, as the Georgia secondary should be able to shutdown a weak receiving corps. 8 men in the box will be the norm. Georgia has enough depth to rotate their front seven so Auburn won’t be able to just wear them down.

Guess: 10 points

Special Teams Edge: Georgia

Overall
This is definitely the closest match-up I’ve seen so far. Both offenses will slog it out, but Georgia should be able to stay balanced, while Auburn will be forced to rely primarily on the run. They have great running backs and a stellar offensive line, but will they be able to do much against a front seven that features Charles Grant, Richard Seymour, Marcus Stroud and Will Witherspoon? Georgia’s superior field goal kicker might be the difference.

8 Ohio State vs 9 Florida

Match-Up
The Buckeyes will have trouble with this defense. Ohio State has to get their running game going, which won’t be easy against a solid front seven. Troy Smith will have trouble passing against an experienced NFL secondary that is deep enough to cover four wide.

Guess: 10 points

Match-Up
The Gators won’t score a bunch on this defense, although Fred Taylor will be able to find a crease here and there. The talented Buckeye LB corps won’t allow him to get far. I don’t see a lot of passing yards, but I think the Gators should be able to pass protect. That Buckeye secondary will shutdown an average receiving corps.

Guess: 10 points

Special Teams Edge: Ohio State

Overall
This will be a close game that will ultimately lean towards the Buckeyes because of their far superior special teams. However, both QBs are questionable enough that they could lose the game by themselves. Although tough to believe, Rex Grossman is the safer choice of the two.

That’s it…look to the top right of the page, click the NCAA Alumni Tournament graphic and VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

Can Vick Carry the Hokies Into the Tourney?

Archived from MVN.com (2007)
Wouldn’t it be great if all the NFL players headed back to campus for a week to determine which university has the best Alumni Team? We’re doing it virtually over the next several weeks at MVN. For all the details, read the Alumni Tournament Introduction, before continuing on below.

The Elite 6
Click above to see the top 6 teams.

The Middle 8
Click above to see the middle 8 teams.

The Bubble 9
I’ve presented 14 of the 16 teams in the tournament. Now it’s time for the 9 teams on the bubble. I need your help picking the final 2, as well as finalizing the rosters for the other 14.

The question for these teams is star-power versus glaring holes. Would you rather have a team with 22 solid starters or a couple of superstars combined with glaring holes? Would the big plays the stars create overcome the big plays that the bobos give up? You tell me, I want to hear everyone’s opinion on who the last 2 teams should be.

(Out of the League) means the player is either retired or looking for a job. (College) means he is currently in college.

Please help me tweak these rosters, I’m sure I overlooked some players. Just click the comments link at the bottom of the post and tell me where I screwed up.

In no particular order, here are the bubble 9 NCAA Alumni teams.

Syracuse
Offense
QB Donovan McNabb (Eagles)

RB Kyle Johnson (Broncos)

WR Marvin Harrison (Colts)
WR Johnnie Morant (Raiders)
WR David Tyree (Giants)

TE Joe Kowalewski (Jets)

OT Adam Terry (Ravens)
OG Quinn Ojinnaka (Falcons)
C ?
OG P.J. Alexander (Falcons)
OT Kevin Sampson (Chiefs)

Bench
RB Greg Hanoian

Summary – Is McNabb/Harrison the best QB/WR combo in the college ranks? This offense will be powered by those two superstars, and hopefully the rest of the guys can just not screw up.

Defense
DE Dwight Freeney (Colts)
DT Josh Thomas (Colts)
DT James Wyche (Jags)
DE Ryan LaCasse (Colts)

LB Rich Scanlon (Chiefs)
LB Keith Bulluck (Titans)
LB Morlon Greenwood (Texans)

CB Will Allen (Dolphins)
CB Tanard Jackson (Bucs)

S Anthony Smith (Steelers)
S Donovin Darius (Raiders)

Bench
S Tebucky Jones (Pats)

Summary – Another unit highlighted by two superstars: Dwight Freeney and Keith Bulluck. Their supporting cast isn’t bad, with a good secondary combining NFL vets and a couple rising players. The defensive line is light, with four defensive ends starting.

ST
P ?
K Olindo Mare (Saints)
R David Tyree (Giants)

Overall – This team will test the star-power vs. complete team theory. Can a team rely on several elite players to carry them, or will the lack of talent across the board overwhelm them? With McNabb, Harrison and Freeney, Syracuse has three players at the top of their respective positions in the NFL. However, the offense will have problems running the ball and protecting the QB. On defense, the front-line will get pushed around a lot.

Penn State
Offense
QB Kerry Collins (Titans)

RB Larry Johnson (Chiefs)

WR Bryant Johnson (Cards)
WR Bobby Engram (Seahawks)

TE Kyle Brady (Pats)
TE John Gilmore (Bears)

OT Levi Brown (Cards)
OG Tyler Reed (Bears)
C ?
OG ?
OT Kareem McKenzie (Giants)

Bench
RB Kenny Watson (Bengals)
RB Tony Hunt (Eagles)
RB Michael Robinson (49ers)
WR Derrick Williams (College)

Summary – Pounding the ball would be ideal, but the interior line is a big question mark. Larry Johnson should be effective running outside, where he’ll have solid tackles (Levi Brown, Kareem McKenzie) and blocking TEs. Kerry Collins has to limit mistakes and keep the chains moving on 3rd down.

Defense
DE Tamba Hali (Chiefs)
DT Jimmy Kennedy (Broncos)
DT Anthony Adams (Bears)
DE Courtney Brown (Broncos)

LB Dan Connor (College)
LB Paul Posluszny (Bills)
LB Tim Shaw (Panthers)

CB David Macklin (Skins)
CB Rich Gardner (Seahawks)

S Bhawoh Jue (Chargers)
S Calvin Lowry (Titans)

Bench
DE Michael Haynes (Jets)
LB LaVar Arrington
S Bryan Scott (Titans)

Summary – If you examine draft status, this looks like an amazing group. Too bad PSU is no longer LB U, but Bust U. Courtney Brown, Jimmy Kennedy and Michael Haynes are all first round picks who have done near nothing at the pro level. Not sure who on this defense is going to make the key play.

ST
P ?
K Robbie Gould (Bears)
R Eddie Drummond (Lions)

Overall – This team has a lot of talent, but like Chris Tucker said in Friday, they don’t have anything that matches. Peanut butter no jelly. Ham no burger. They have a great inside RB, but their interior o-line is atrocious. Their secondary needs a pass rush, but their line is full of guys who play the run. However, before we bury them, let’s remember that they have Larry Johnson, an experienced QB, two solid receivers, good bookend offensive tackles and good talent sprinkled throughout their defense.

UNC
Offense
QB Matt Baker (Cowboys)

RB Willie Parker (Steelers)
FB Madison Hedgecock (Rams)

WR Ronald Curry (Raiders)
WR Sam Aiken (Bills)

TE Alge Crumpler (Falcons)

OT Jeb Terry (Bucs)
OG Ethan Albright (Skins)
C Jeff Saturday (Colts)
OG Greg Warren (Steelers)
OT Jason Brown (Ravens)

Bench
TE Zachary Hilton (Skins)

Summary – This offensive line is going to be horrid, and with Matt Baker a virtual unknown, that spells trouble. Maybe Fast Willie can break one occasionally. Alge Crumpler and Ronald Curry will have to make some plays, including fetching jump balls that Baker heaves as he’s being buried in the turf.

Defense
DE Julius Peppers (Panthers)
DT Russell Davis (Seahawks)
DT Vonnie Holliday (Dolphins)
DE Ebenezer Ekuban (Broncos)

LB Greg Ellis (Cowboys)
LB Brian Simmons (Saints)
LB David Thornton (Titans)

CB Dre’ Bly (Broncos)
CB Michael Waddell (Titans)

S Gerald Sensabaugh (Jags)
S ?

Bench

Summary – A real solid front seven, with some star power in Julius Peppers and Greg Ellis. Ellis and Peppers might be the best pair of edge rushers in the tournament. Sprinkle in some solid players like Dre Bly and David Thornton, and it should be a good unit. However, should the rush get blocked, the lack of NFL level players in the secondary will get noticed.

ST
P ?
K Jeff Reed (Steelers)
R Dre’ Bly (Broncos)

Overall – This team will rely on the big play on both sides of the ball. They have some glaring holes that will get exposed. The defense will be relied upon to create turnovers, and with players like Julius Peppers, Greg Ellis and Dre Bly, they should be able to deliver. The offensive gameplan will be conservative, featuring a lot of Willie Parker running, and short passes to Alge Crumpler and Ronald Curry.

NC State

Offense
QB Philip Rivers (Chargers)

WR Torry Holt (Rams)
WR Jerricho Cotchery (Jets)
WR Koren Robinson (Packers)
WR Alvis Whitted (Raiders)
WR Brian Clark (Broncos)

OT Scott Kooistra (Bengals)
OG Sean Locklear (Seahawks)
C Leroy Harris (Titans)
OG ?
OT ?

Bench

Summary – If you add in a couple offensive linemen and a decent back, this unit could thrive. They have star power in Phillip Rivers, Torry Holt and Jerricho Cotchery. The line is a glaring weakness, and will force this team to throw a lot of short routes and hope the receivers make a play. Rivers better get that quick release ready, as he’ll be throwing 50 passes a game under pressure.

Defense
DE Mario Williams (Texans)
DT DeMarcus (Tank) Tyler (Chiefs)
DT John McCargo (Bills)
DE Manny Lawson (49ers)

LB Stephen Tulloch (Titans)
LB Oliver Hoyte (Cowboys)
LB Pat Thomas (Jags)

CB Brian Williams (Jags)
CB A.J. Davis (Lions)

S Adrian Wilson (Cards)
S Terrence Holt (Cards)

Bench

Summary – In a year or two, this might be a premier defensive line. For now, it’s a line with a lot of potential. Mario Williams and Manny Lawson should bring pressure. The secondary is solid with Adrian Wilson and Brian Williams.

ST
P ?
K ?
R Koren Robinson (Packers)

Overall – This team is similar to Syracuse, as they have plenty of star-power, but glaring holes at several positions. The defense should be good, even great, and could make throwing the ball difficult. The offense will turn the ball over a lot, but could also generate a ton of passing yards.

Alabama

Offense
QB Brodie Croyle (Chiefs)

RB Shaun Alexander (Seahawks)
FB Le’Ron McClain (Ravens)

WR Jason McAddley (Skins)
WR DJ Hall (College)

TE Kenneth Darby (RB) (Bucs)

OT Chris Samuels (Skins)
OG Justin Smiley (49ers)
C ?
OG Evan Mathis (Panthers)
OT Wesley Britt (Pats)

Bench
RB Shaud Williams (Bills)

Summary – Combine Shaun Alexander with Chris Samuels and Justin Smiley, and you’ll see a lot of runs to the left. Other than that, this unit is limited by an unproven QB with few aerial targets.

Defense
DE Mark Anderson (Bears)
DT Cornelius Griffin (Skins)
DT Michael Myers (Bengals)
DE Antwan Odom (Titans)

LB Derrick Pope (Dolphins)
LB DeMeco Ryans (Texans)
LB ?

CB Fernando Bryant (Lions)
CB Deshea Townsend (Steelers)

S Roman Harper (Saints)
S Charlie Peprah (Packers)

Bench
DT Kindal Moorehead (Panthers)
CB Anthony Madison (Steelers)

Summary – I like this defense, they have some star power with no glaring holes. Mark Anderson, Cornelius Griffin and DeMeco Ryans are the core of the unit, complimented by a solid pair of cornerbacks. They’ll make it difficult to pass against this unit.

ST
P ?
K ?
R Shaud Williams (Bills)

Overall – This team will run the Parcells gameplan and try to control the clock. The defense will need to not only get off the field, but make some big plays as well. Shaun Alexander will grind it out and will be familiar with all the left-side run plays he’s ran in Seattle. If Brodie Croyle becomes a good QB and DJ Hall becomes a star NFL receiver, this team improves dramatically.

Virginia Tech
Offense
QB Michael Vick (Falcons)

RB Kevin Jones (Lions)

WR Ernest Wilford (Jags)
WR Andre Davis (Texans)
WR David Clowney (Packers)

TE Jeff King (Panthers)

OT Anthony Davis (Bucs)
OG Matt Lehr (Bucs)
C Jake Grove (Raiders)
OG Will Montgomery (Panthers)
OT Brandon Frye (Texans)

Bench
RB Lee Suggs (Out of the League)
WR Marcus Vick (Out of the League)

Summary – The line is a bit suspect, but this unit should score some points. Michael Vick is surrounded by a solid group of skill talent and they’ll create some big plays.

Defense
DE Darryl Tapp (Seahawks)
DT Jonathan Lewis (Cards)
DT Tim Sandidge (Rams)
DE John Engelberger (Broncos)

LB James Anderson (Panthers)
LB Vince Hall (College)
LB Xavier Adibi (College)

CB DeAngelo Hall (Falcons)
CB Eric Green (Cards)

S Vince Fuller (Titans)
S Jimmy Williams (Falcons)

Bench
DE Bruce Smith (Out of the League)
CB Ronyell Whitaker (Vikings)
S Aaron Rouse (Packers)
S Kevin McAdam (Jags)
S Nick Sorenson (Jags)

Summary – The secondary is the strength of this team, with DeAngelo Hall, Eric Green and Jimmy Williams. Daryl Tapp is the only pass rusher on the line, and the linebackers rely on two college players (although both are projected as 1st/2nd rounders). Bruce Smith is an x-factor as a pass rusher. Is he too old or will he his legs be rejuvenated for one game at Lane Stadium?

ST
P ?
K Shayne Graham (Bengals)
R DeAngelo Hall (Falcons)

Overall – Michael Vick will have to recapture some of his old Hokie magic and carry this offense. There are some playmakers sprinkled throughout, and the special teams under Frank Beamer make an impact. The lines on both sides of the ball are suspect, so they’ll rely on the big play to win.

Cal
Offense
QB Kyle Boller (Ravens)

RB Marshawn Lynch (Bills)
RB J.J. Arrington (Cards)

WR Adimchinobe Echemandu (RB) (Raiders)
WR Chris Manderino (RB) (Bengals)

TE Tony Gonzalez (Chiefs)

OT Tarik Glenn (Colts)
OG John Welbourn (Chiefs)
C Jeremy Newberry (Raiders)
OG Ryan O’Callaghan (Pats)
OT Langston Walker (Bills)

Bench
QB Aaron Rodgers (Packers)
OT Todd Steussie (Rams)

Summary – This team has a solid line and a hyped RB. The passing game will be primarily Kyle Boller throwing 50 yard bombs from his knees to Tony Gonzalez. No wide receivers could be found.

Defense
DE Andre Carter (Skins)
DT Brandon Mebane (Seahawks)
DT Lorenzo Alexander (Skins)
DE Tully Banta-Cain (49ers)

LB Desmond Bishop (Packers)
LB Scott Fujita (Saints)
LB ?

CB Nnamdi Asomugha (Raiders)
CB Deltha O’Neal (Bengals)

S Matt Giordano (Colts)
S Daymeion Hughes (CB) (Colts)

Summary – This unit should provide good pass defense, with a solid secondary featuring both Nnamdi Asomugha and Deltha O’Neal. The DEs might get some pressure as well. The run defense will be porous.

ST
P Nick Harris (Lions)
K Ryan Longwell (Vikings)
R J.J. Arrington (Cards)

Overall – The offense will be about running the ball and hitting the Tony Gonzalez over the middle. They won’t be able to stretch the field, so defenses will stack the line on them. On defense, their problem will be stopping the run.

Purdue
Offense
QB Drew Brees (Saints)

RB Mike Alstott (Bucs)

WR John Standeford (Colts)
WR ?
WR ?

TE ?

OT Matt Light (Pats)
OG Brandon Gorin (Cards)
C Nick Hardwick (Chargers)
OG Gene Mruczkowski (Pats)
OT Kelly Butler (Browns)

Bench
OT Michael Otto (Titans)

Summary – A solid line and Drew Brees are a good start, and should limit turnovers. However, I don’t see any playmakers, so this unit will lack punch.

Defense
DE Anthony Spencer (Cowboys)
DT Jeff Zgonina (Texans)
DT Craig Terrill (Seahawks)
DE Chike Okeafor (Cards)

LB Rosevelt Colvin (Pats)
LB Akin Ayodele (Cowboys)
LB Shaun Phillips (Chargers)

CB ?
CB ?

S Bernard Pollard (Chiefs)
S Stuart Schweigert (Raiders)

Bench
DE Rob Ninkovich (Saints)
DE Ray Edwards (Vikings)
LB Gilbert Gardner (Titans)
LB Niko Koutouvides (Seahawks)

Summary – A solid front seven with good rushing ability. Anthony Spencer, Chike Okeafor, Roosevelt Colvin and Shaun Phillips can all bring pressure. They better, because they have no NFL CBs.

ST
P ?
K ?
R ?

Overall – This team will rely on its defense getting to the QB and making plays. With Brees running the offense, they’ll be efficient, but with no playmakers, his hands will be tied.

Nebraska
Offense
QB Eric Crouch (Out of the League)

FB Cory Schlesinger (Dolphins)
RB Ahman Green (Texans)

WR Correll Buckhalter (RB) (Eagles)
WR Brandon Jackson (RB) (Packers)

TE Richie Incognito (G) (Rams)

OT Zach Wiegert (Texans)
OG Toniu Fonoti (Falcons)
C Dominic Raiola (Lions)
OG Adam Treu (Raiders)
OT Russ Hochstein (Pats)

Bench
RB Cory Ross (Ravens)

Summary – They’ll be running an option offense and pounding the ball. Hopefully Eric Crouch has kept himself in shape.

Defense
DE Mike Rucker (Panthers)
DT Adam Carriker (Rams)
DT Chris Kelsay (DE) (Bills)
DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (Titans)

LB Scott Shanle (Saints)
LB Carlos Polk (Chargers)
LB Demorrio Williams (Falcons)

CB Fabian Washington (Raiders)
CB Ralph Brown (Cards)

S Mike Brown (Bears)
S Josh Bullocks (Saints)

Bench
DT Ryon Bingham (Chargers)
S Daniel Bullocks (Lions)
S Mike Minter (Panthers)

Summary – This is a unit with no glaring weakness. The line is the strength, and should be able to pressure the QB. The secondary is pretty solid. This unit will not only get off the field, they’ll punish opposing QBs.

ST
P Kyle Larson (Bengals)
K Josh Brown (Seahawks)
R Cory Ross (Ravens)

Bench
K Kris Brown (Texans)
P Sam Koch (Ravens)

Overall – Who knew that Nebraska fielded the deepest kicking unit? Two NFL kickers and two NFL punters. This team is pretty solid throughout, but can the option succeed against an NFL defense? Probably not that well. However, with this defense, it just needs to score some and they can win.

Archived from MVN.com (2007)
Wouldn’t it be great if all the NFL players headed back to campus for a week to determine which university has the best Alumni Team? We’re doing it virtually over the next several weeks at MVN. For all the details, read the Alumni Tournament Introduction, before continuing on below.

The Elite 6
Click above to see the top 6 teams.

The Middle 8

After the Elite 6, here are the next 8 squads. These teams either had a solid line-up without an established QB, or, they had an established QB, but significant holes elsewhere.

(Out of the League) means the player is either retired or looking for a job. (College) means he is currently in college.

Please help me tweak these rosters, I’m sure I overlooked some players. Just click the comments link at the bottom of the post and tell me where I screwed up.

In no particular order, here are the middle 8 NCAA Alumni teams.

Georgia
Offense
QB Greene (Seahawks)

RB M. Smith (Ravens)
FB Strong (Seahawks)

WR H. Ward (Steelers)
WR R. Brown (Eagles)

TE B. Watson (Pats)

OT J. Jennings (49ers)
OG Jean-Gilles (Eagles)
C Stinchcomb (Saints)
OG Meadows (Brocos)
OT Foster (Lions)

Bench
QB Shockley (Falcons)
RB V. Hayes (Steelers)
TE R. McMichael (Rams)
TE Pope (Cards)
OT Terry (Chiefs)

Summary – Pretty solid unit, with some question marks in the backfield. Greene has been hyped a bit, but has no track record, while Musa Smith has been ok in spot duty. If Greene can get the ball into the hands of his receivers, he’ll be in great shape with Hines Ward, Reggie Brown and Ben Watson. They could definitely run some scary two and three tight end sets with Watson, Randy McMichael and Leonard Pope. Front-line is solid, but lacks a top-end player.

Defense
DE C. Grant (Saints)
DT Seymour (Pats)
DT Stroud (Jags)
DE Geathers (Bengals)

LB Witherspoon (Rams)
LB Thurman (Bengals)
LB T. Davis (Panthers)

CB C. Bailey (Broncos)
CB Jennings (Colts)

S S. Jones (Browns)
S J. Phillips (Bucs)

Bench
DT J. Ferguson (Cowboys)
DE P. Daniels (Skins)
DE C. Johnson (Panthers)
DE Q. Moses (Raiders)
LB B. Bailey (Lions)
LB Pollack (Bengals)
CB P. Oliver (Supp. Draft)

ST
P ?
K Kasay (Panthers)
R C. Bailey (Broncos)

Summary - Wow, that defensive line challenges Tennessee’s for top among the Alumni ranks. They have depth as well, with Jason Ferguson and Phillip Daniels on the bench. Champ will be pulling down a lot of interceptions with this group applying pressure. However, the rest of the secondary is suspect.

Overall - Add a QB or a dominant RB to this team and they’re in the top tier. Too bad Quincy Carter is in rehab. That defense is full of playmakers and will be difficult to keep off the QB.

Help - Punter please.

Ohio State
Offense
QB T. Smith (Ravens)

RB Pittman (Saints)

WR J. Galloway (Bucs)
WR T. Glenn (Cowboys)
WR S. Holmes (Steelers)

TE Hartsock (Titans)

OT Pace (Rams)
OG Bentley (Browns)
C Mangold (Jets)
OG T. Walter (Packers)
OT Olivea (Chargers)

Bench
RB E. George (Out of the League)
WR T. Ginn (Dolphins)

Summary - Another team that is lacking a QB. Troy Smith might have a Heisman, but until he proves something at the next level, he’s just a mid-round pick. They’ll be seeing a lot of cover 2 with their speed at receiver, so a good running game is key. Check out the left side of the line – Pace, Bentley and Mangold. Not too shabby.

Defense
DE W. Smith (Saints)
DT D. Wilkinson (Dolphins)
DT T. Anderson (Bills)
DE D. Scott (Vikings)

LB Carpenter (Cowboys)
LB Hawk (Packers)
LB Vrabel (Pats)

CB Clements (49ers)
CB Winfield (Vikings)

S Doss (Vikings)
S Whitner (Bills)

Bench
LB R. Reynolds (Titans)
CB Springs (Skins)
CB Gamble (Panthers)
S Nickey (Titans)

ST
P Sander (Rams)
K Nugent (Nugent)
R Ginn (Dolphins)

Summary - Wow, four legit NFL corners, plus Whitner and Doss. They might challenge the Longhorns for the best nickel package. While their front only has one pressure player in Will Smith, they have a good blitzing LB corps in Vrabel, Hawk and Carpenter. This is a unit that meshes well, with good blitzers and a great secondary to cover their asses.

Overall - This team will rely on a great defense and an occasional big play. Their special teams are strong as well. On offense, they’ll try to pound the ball and let Troy Smith air it out to his lighting fast group of receivers. If Smith proves to be a solid NFL QB, this is a team to be reckoned with.

Auburn
Offense
QB J. Campbell (Skins)

RB R. Johnson (Bengals)

WR T. Carter (Browns)
WR R. Brown (RB) (Dolpins)

TE C. Wallace (Titans)
TE R. Johnson (Saints)

OT McNeill (Chargers)
OG K. Simmons (Steelers)
C Gray (Seahawks)
OG Grubbs (Ravens)
OT W. Anderson (Bengals)

Bench
RB C. Williams (Bucs)
WR Aromashadu (Colts)

Summary - This team is going to run the ball, then run it some more, and then maybe try the run. The line is the best I’ve seen. Add Rudi Johnson, Ronnie Brown and Cadillac Williams, and you’ve got a powerful running game. The glaring hole is at receiver, so bad that I put Ronnie Brown out there. Jason Campbell is promising, but he’ll struggle with these wideouts.

Defense
DE Whitehead (Saints)
DT S. Johnson (Vikings)
DT Ratliff (Cowboys)
DE McClover (Panthers)

LB M. Washington (Skins)
LB Spikes (Eagles)
LB Dansby (Cards)

CB C. Rogers (Skins)
CB Hood (Cards)

S Hobbs (Seahawks)
S Irons (CB) (Falcons)

Bench
LB D. Thomas (Vikings)
LB Herring (Seahawks)

ST
P ?
K Bironas (Titans)
R C. Williams (Bucs)

Summary - The front four is a problem, with not one NFL starter. The back seven is solid, but there aren’t a lot of playmakers.

Overall – Their running game will be among the best. Whether they can keep defenses honest with no real receiving threat is a big question. Their defense will be ok, but will get pushed around up front and will give up some plays through the air.

Help - Alright Tiger fans, need both a punter and kicker.

Virginia
Offense
QB Schaub (Texans)

RB T. Barber (Out of the League)
RB T. Jones (Jets)

WR Hagans (Rams)
WR McMullen (Vikings)

TE H. Miller (Steelers)

OT D. Ferguson (Jets)
OG E. Brown (Cards)
C Barthelmes (Pats)
OG Estes (49ers)
OT St. Claire (Bears)

Bench
QB A. Brooks (Out of the League)

Summary - Starting both Tiki Barber and Thomas Jones, as they’re the best skill players they have. The line is a bit suspect, but with those backs, they should be able to run the ball. Matt Schaub will be throwing primarly to his backs and Heath Miller, as these receivers are borderline NFL caliber.

Defense
DE Canty (Cowboys)
DT Long (College)
DT Hoffman (Browns)
DE Kerney (Seahawks)

LB Farrior (Steelers)
LB A. Brooks (Bengals)
LB Crowell (Bills)

CB R. Barber (Bucs)
CB Winborne (Ravens)

S Hardy (49ers)
S Hamilton (CB) (Bucs)

Bench
LB/DE Blackstock (Cards)

ST
P Will Brice (Out of the League)
K C. Hughes (Steelers)
R T. Barber (Out of the League)

Summary - Not a bad front seven when you add Howie Long’s son Chris, who looks to be a first round draft pick next year. The LB corps will shut down the run and help bring pressure. If the QB gets time, watch out, because other than Ronde Barber, they have three guys with a combined career total of three tackles manning the secondary.

Overall - Surprising how good this team is given UVa’s lack of top 25 finishes. Their offense will be efficient and control the ball. A two-headed monster of Tiki and Thomas Jones will be dangerous. On defense, they better hope they don’t face a top-end passing game, because they’ll get scorched.

Help – Wahoos, give me your favorite kicker and punter.

Oklahoma
Offense
QB J. White (Out of the League)

RB A. Peterson (Vikings)

WR M. Clayton (Ravens)
WR M. Bradley (Bears)
WR B. Jones (Titans)

TE S. Alexander (Broncos)

OT J. Brown (Saints)
OG D. Joseph (Bucs)
C Sims (Saints)
OG C. Chester (Ravens)
OT McDougle (Jags)

Bench

Summary - Another solid team lacking a quality QB. They’ll rely on the run and hope J. White can drive the bus. Line is solid, and Adrian Peterson will make plays.

Defense
DE D. Cody (Ravens)
DT T. Harris (Bears)
DT Gregg (Ravens)
DE Wilkerson (Chiefs)

LB B. Moore (49ers)
LB Lehman (Lions)
LB Ingram (Jags)

CB Ivy (Ravens)
CB Strait (Panthers)

S Pool (Browns)
S R. Williams (Cowboys)

Bench
DT Dvoracek (Bears)
CB Woolfolk (Titans)

ST
P ?
K ?
R M. Bradley (Bears)

Summary - Good front, especially at tackle with Tommie Harris and Kelly Gregg. Brandon Moore is an additional pass rush threat. The corners are both backup guys in the NFL, but the safeties will provide some playmaking.

Overall – This team can’t fall behind, because they don’t have a legit QB. Defense should create some turnovers, but will also get burned by the pass.

Help - Any Sooner punters or kickers I missed?

Florida
Offense
QB Grossman (Bears)

RB F. Taylor (Jags)

WR D. Jackson (49ers)
WR Caldwell (Pats)
WR Hilliard (Bucs)

TE Troupe (Titans)

OT Starks (Steelers)
OG Piller (Giants)
C Rissler (Cowboys)
OG Carlisle (Raiders)
OT K. Walker (Bucs)

Bench
WR Gaffney (Pats)
WR C. Jackson (Pats)

Summary - Fred Taylor is the only standout, but the line is average. They’ll try to hold the ball and limit Rex’s mistakes.

Defense
DE A. Brown (Bears)
DT G. Warren (Broncos)
DT I. Scott (Eagles)
DE Kearse (Eagles)

LB A. Davis (Browns)
LB M. Peterson (Jags)
LB Crowder (Dolphins)

CB L. Sheppard (Eagles)
CB R. Hill (Titans)

S M. Manual (Packers)
S R. Nelson (Jags)

Bench
DE Moss (Broncos)
DE McCray (Jags)
CB Ratliff (Bengals)
CB R. Smith (Titans)

ST
P ?
K ?
R C. Jackson (Pats)

Summary - Solid unit throughout, with star power in Jevon Kearse, Mike Peterson, Lito Sheppard and perhaps Reggie Nelson. Watch out for the edge rush, with Alex Brown, Kearse and Jarvis Moss in reserve. This team should create a bunch of turnovers.

Overall - This defense has the potential to cause a lot of headaches for opposing QBs. They better, because the offense won’t scare anyone.

Help - Punter and kicker please.

LSU
Offense
QB J. Russell (Raiders)

RB Addai (Colts)

WR D. Henderson (Saints)
WR Kennison (Chiefs)
WR D. Bowe (Chiefs)

TE Royal (Bills)

OT Whitworth (Bengals)
OG Faneca (Steelers)
C Mawae (Titans)
OG McClure (Falcons)
OT Livings (Bengals)

Bench
RB Faulk (Pats)
RB D. Williams (Texans)
WR M. Clayton (Bucs)
WR C. Davis (Chargers)
WR Doucet (College)

Summary – Combine a good interior line with Joseph Addai and they should get some good yardage. JaMarcus Russell has a solid corps of WR to work with, if he gets the time to throw from his weak tackle tandem.

Defense
DE Spears (Cowboys)
DT McFarland (Colts)
DT Lavalais (Panthers)
DE J. Green (Pats)

LB T. Faulk (Saints)
LB B. James (Cowboys)
LB E. Alexander (Pats)

CB T. James (Bengals)
CB T. Daniels (Dolphins)

S Landry (Skins)
S R. Clark (Steelers)

Bench
DT Wroten (Rams)
DT Dorsey (College)
DE Pittman (Browns)
CB Gay (Pats)

ST
P D. Jones (Rams)
K ?
R S. Green (Bengals)

Summary - This unit will be tough to run the ball against, with good size and athleticism up-front. LaRon Landry is the only standout in the back seven. Who’s going to rush the passer?

Overall - This team will test the old adage that the way to win is to run the ball and stop the run. This team should be able to do both. However, pass protection will be an issue, as will rushing the opposing QB. A strong pass attack will give this defense fits.

Help - Kicker.

Notre Dame
Offense
QB Quinn (Browns)

RB J. Jones (Cowboys)

WR D. Givens (Titans)
WR Battle (49ers)
WR Stovall (Bucs)

TE Fasano (Cowboys)

OT Petitgout (Bucs)
OG Rosenthal (Dolphins)
C Faine (Saints)
OG Black (Texans)
OT Gandy (Cards)

Bench
RB J. Bettis (Out of the League)
RB T. Fisher (Rams)
WR Jeff Smardizja (Baseball)
WR T. Brown (Out of the League)

Summary - The big question mark is Quinn. With a solid line, and a couple good RBs, the ground game is in good hands. I’d be excited to see Jerome Bettis don the golden dome again. The WR corps is solid, but not spectacular.

Defense
DE B. Berry (Cards)
DT B. Young (49ers)
DT R. Wynn (Skins)
DE Abiamiri (Eagles)

LB Rudy (Legend)
LB Boiman (Colts)
LB Mays (Pats)

CB Rossum (Falcons)
CB M. Richardson (Pats)

S G. Earl (Texans)
S G. Sapp (Ravens)

Bench
DE A. Weaver (Texans)
DE J. Tuck (Giants)
LB G. Irons (Raiders)

ST
P H. Smith (Colts)
K ?
R Rossum (Falcons)

Summary - A good front-line, with a couple pressure players in Bertrand Berry and Bryant Young. After that, it turns into a combination of average players and journeymen holding down the back seven. Can Rudy play LB against NFL-caliber foes? We’ll see…

Overall – This team will have to score to win. Their back seven on their defense is bad, so Berry and Young better get to the QB. The team philosophy will be a solid ground game and some play-action passing, sprinkled with a forced turnover or two. Can Quinn play at the level expected?

Help - Kicker, unless Rudy can do it.

A Possible Finals Match-Up?

Archived from MVN.com (2007)
Wouldn’t it be great if all the NFL players headed back to campus for a week to determine which university has the best Alumni Team? We’re doing it virtually over the next several weeks at MVN. For all the details, read the Alumni Tournament Introduction, before continuing on below.

The first step is narrowing our field to 16 Alumni teams, so that we can set our bracket. We’ll need your help to set the lineups and pick the 16 teams.

We’ll start at the top, with the elite teams, because we won’t need much debate to see if these teams should make the field of 16.

(Out of the League) means the player is either retired or looking for a job. (College) means he is currently in college.

Please help me tweak these rosters, I’m sure I overlooked some players. Just click the comments link at the bottom of the post and tell me where I screwed up.

In no particular order, here are the elite NCAA Alumni teams.

Miami

Offense
QB Testaverde (Pats)

RB Portis (Skins)

WR A. Johnson (Texans)
WR R. Wayne (Colts)
WR S. Moss (Skins)

TE Shockey (Giants)

OT McKennie (Vikings)
OG Butler (Panthers)
C Romberg (Rams)
OG Carey (Dolphins)
OT Winston (Texans)

Bench
QB Dorsey (Browns)
RB Gore (49ers)
RB E. James (Cards)
RB McGahee (Ravens)
WR R. Parrish (Bills)
WR S. Moss (Giants)
TE Winslow (Browns)
TE Olsen (Bears)
TE Franks (Packers)

Summary – Luckily this team doesn’t have a top-end QB or we might be able to just end the tournament early and give the “U” the trophy. The skill positions are phenomenal with 4 legit RBs, 3 elite WRs, and 2 top tier TEs. The line is solid, but won’t dominate. Opposing defenses need to rush the passer, as Vinny can’t run in his orthopedic shoes.

Defense
DE K. Lang (Broncos)
DT Sapp (Raiders)
DT Wilfork (Pats)
DE C. Campbell (College)

LB Vilma (Jets)
LB R. Lewis (Ravens)
LB DJ Williams (Broncos)

CB A. Rolle (Cards)
CB Jennings (Seahawks)

S S. Taylor (Skins)
S E. Reed (Ravens)

Bench
DE McDougle (Eagles)
DT Joseph (Giants)
DT D. Lewis (Panthers)
LB Morgan (Panthers)
LB Beason (Panthers)
LB McIntosh (Skins)
CB Buchanon (Bucs)
S Merriweather (Pats)

ST
P Feagles (Giants)
K ?
R D. Hester (Bears)

Summary – I expected to find a better defensive line. Doesn’t it seem like a lineman from Miami gets picked in the 1st round every year? Yet, Warren Sapp and Vince Wilfork are the only ones that would be considered top-end NFL talent. Scouts have been overrating these guys. However, past the line you find more talent than starting spots. The LB corps of Jon Vilma, Ray Lewis and DJ Williams is phenomenal. The same can be said for the safety tandem of Ed Reed and Sean Taylor. The corners are solid, but not the “shutdown” types.

Overall - Miami will test the Trent Dilfer theory on how bad a QB can be and still win a championship. Just by handing off and throwing screen passes Vinny should be able to score a bunch of points. Opposing defenses need to bring pressure and force mistakes. The Miami defense will cause some headaches and create turnovers. The only real weakness is a lack of pass rushers. Don’t forget about Hester returning kicks.

Help – Need a Cane kicker.

USC

Offense
QB Palmer (Bengals)

RB R. Bush (Saints)

WR K. Johnson (Out of the League)
WR D. Jarrett (Panthers)
WR S. Smith (Giants)

TE Byrd (Rams)

OT Baker (College)
OG Lutui (Cards)
C Kalil (Panthers)
OG Matua (Browns)
OT Justice (Eagles)

Bench
QB Leinart (Cards)
RB L. White (Titans)
WR Colbert (Panthers)
WR M. Williams (Raiders)

Summary – An elite backfield consisting of Carson Palmer and Reggie Bush is the foundation of this unit. The receiving corps is solid, but not spectacular. The line is good, with a highly touted, but college level, left tackle in Sam Baker. This offense will be efficient and limit turnovers, plus hit the occasional big play. A deep threat at WR is missing.

Defense
DE Udeze (Vikings)
DT Patterson (Eagles)
DT Cody (Lions)
DE McGinest (Browns)

LB K. Rivers (College)
LB Tatupu (Seahawks)
LB Seau (Pats)

CB B. Kelly (Bucs)
CB McCutcheon (Browns)

S Polamalu (Steelers)
S Bing (Raiders)

Bench
DE L. Jackson (College)
DT S. Ellis (College)
DE F. Rucker (Bengals)
CB T. Thomas (College)

ST
P Malone (Pats)
K ?
R R. Bush (Saints)

Summary – Solid, but not spectacular defense, with no dominant sub-unit. Lofa Tatupu and Troy Polamalu are the stars. Rushing the passer will be a problem.

Overall – The five potential first round picks currently at USC help fill in two starting spots and give key depth. This team will rely on their offense to win games with scores like 27-21. They will move the ball and rarely turn it over. The defense won’t dominate, but they’ll make enough plays to get off the field. Good passing teams will give this defense a problem.

Help – Trojan fans, we need a kicker.

Michigan

Offense
QB Brady (Pats)

RB Hart (College)

WR Toomer (Giants)
WR B. Edwards (Browns)
WR Avant (Eagles)

TE Shea (Chargers)

OT Backus (Lions)
OG Hutchinson (Vikings)
C Pearson (Lions)
OG Runyan (Eagles)
OT Jansen (Skins)

Bench
QB Henson (Vikings)
RB Perry (Bengals)
RB A. Thomas (Bills)
TE Joppru (Seahawks)
OT Long (College)

Summary – After much consideration, I decided to go with Tom Brady over Drew Henson at QB. Protecting Brady is one of the top two lines out of all the Alumni teams (the other being Auburn). Mike Hart and Chris Perry form a good RB duo, and Amani Toomer and Braylon Edwards give Brady a couple big targets. This team will be difficult to defend.

Defense
DE J. Hall (Rams)
DT A. Branch (Cards)
DT G. Watson (Cards)
DE Woodley (Steelers)

LB Gold (Broncos)
LB Hobson (Jets)
LB June (Bucs)

CB C. Woodson (Packers)
CB L. Hall (Bengals)

S M. Jackson (Colts)
S T. Law (CB) (Chiefs)

Bench
LB Foote (Steelers)
S LeSeur (Browns)

ST
P ?
K Feeley (Dolphins)
R Breaston (Cards)

Summary – The back seven of this defense is solid, although the star power is either past its prime (Woodson and Law), or not quite there yet (Hall and Jackson). The DTs are huge, but haven’t proven to be productive. Coverage shouldn’t be a problem, but mounting a consistent rush might be.

Overall - Offense will be dominant, get ahead, and defense won’t be easy to pass against. Only hope is to pound the ball against the defense and keep Brady off the field.

Help – Punter please.

Florida State

Offense
QB B. Johnson (Cowboys)

RB Dunn (Falcons)
FB Crockett (Raiders)

WR Boldin (Cards)
WR J. Walker (Broncos)
WR L. Coles (Jets)

OT W. Jones (Seahawks)
OG Barron (Rams)
C Holland (Broncos)
OG Willis (Seahawks)
OT T. Thomas (Eagles)

Bench
RB L. Washington (Jets)
RB G. Jones (Jags)
RB L. Booker (Dolphins)

Summary – Unfortunately they have a weak-armed QB in Brad Johnson, because this team has a great trio of receivers in Anquan Boldin, Javon Walker, and Laveranues Coles. A real solid line as well, with a great set of OTs in Walter Jones and Tra Thomas. They will pound the ball, and hopefully the WRs can turn some short catches into big gainers. Warrick Dunn, Greg Jones and Leon Washington form a solid running attack. Surprisingly, they have no NFL TEs, so I went with a fullback and three WRs.

Defense
DE Spires (Bucs)
DT Dockett (Cards)
DT Bunkley (Eagles)
DE Wimbley (Browns)

LB Sims (Lions)
LB Timmons (Steelers)
LB Brooks (Bucs)

CB S. Rolle (Ravens)
CB Cromartie (Chargers)

S Boulware (Seahawks)
S Hope (Titans)

Bench
DT C. Simon
DT T. Johnson (Texans)
DT Roye (Browns)
LB B. Davis (Cards)
LB Polley (Saints)
CB McFadden (Steelers)
S D. Jackson (Bengals)
S P. Watkins (Cowboys)

ST
P Player (Cards)
K Janikowski (Raiders)
R PK Sam (Ravens)

Summary – Solid throughout, but not dominant in any area. The LB corps of Sims/Timmons/Brooks is the highlight. The line will bring pressure with Wimbley, Spires and Dockett. A solid, but unspectacular, secondary with plenty of depth. Luckily, Deion isn’t needed and can keep providing his brilliant analytics on the NFL Network.

Overall – This team will control the ball offensively, with a great rushing attack and good short passing. D is strong throughout with no glaring weaknesses. They might not dominate, but they’ll be tough to move the ball on. Add in one of the best Alumni special teams units and you’ve got an elite team.

Tennessee

Offense
QB Manning (Colts)

RB Henry (Broncos)

WR Stallworth (Pats)
WR K. Washington (Pats)
WR Meacham (Saints)

TE Witten (Cowboys)

OT Clifton (Packers)
OG Weary (Texans)
C Wells (Packers)
OG Coleman (Browns)
OT Sears (Bucs)

Bench
RB J. Lewis (Browns)
WR Parker (Chargers)
WR P. Price (Bills)
WR C. Wilson (Steelers)
C T. Teague (Jets)

Summary – This offensive powerhouse has Pro Bowlers at several skill positions. Pair Peyton Manning with a receiving corps that consists of Donte Stallworth, Kelley Washington, recent 1st rounder Robert Meacham plus tight end Jason Witten and you’ll score some points. Travis Henry is a good runner, with Jamal Lewis providing the short yardage meat. The line is solid, but not great. The best chance of stopping this unit is with pressure.

Defense
DE S. Ellis (Jets)
DT Haynesworth (Titans)
DT Henderson (Jags)
DE Little (Rams)

LB Gaither (Eagles)
LB A. Wilson (Broncos)
LB Burnett (Cowboys)

CB Greer (Bills)
CB J. Allen (Dolphins)

S D. Grant (Seahawks)
S G. Wilson (Giants)

Bench
DT D. Walker (Bills)
DT Harrell (Packers)
LB Haralson (49ers)
CB Wade (Rams)

ST
P Colquitt (Chiefs)
K Wilhoit (Ravens)
R Stallworth (Pats)

Summary – Wow, what a defensive line. If this team gets matched up against a weak offensive line you might need three quarterbacks to make it through the game. Both the ends are double-digit NFL sackmasters and at tackle they have a 650 lb brick wall. Luckily for the competition, the rest of the defense is just so so. Deon Grant and Gibril Wilson form a solid safety tandem.

Overall - The offense is gonna score points, and doing anything on that d-line will be tough. If you can block ‘em, you can score on this defense. And if you can rush Manning, you might be able to slow the offense.

Help – Alright Volunteers, volunteer your favorite kicker for the Alumni squad.

Texas

Offense
QB V. Young (Titans)

RB Benson (Bears)

WR R. Williams (Lions)
WR Sweed (College)

TE Scaife (Titans)
TE D. Thomas (Pats)

OT L. Davis (Cowboys)
OG Dockery (Bills)
C Loeffler (Vikings)
OG Blalock (Falcons)
OT Scott (Lions)

Bench
QB Simms (Bucs)
RB R. Williams (Stoned)
FB A. Hall (Titans)

Summary – Vince Young and Roy Williams are the two megastars. Benson is a solid RB, and their line is good (and big) with Leonard Davis, Derrick Dockery and Jason Blalock. This team will pound the ball and count on Vince for a big play.

Defense
DE Crowder (Broncos)
DT S. Rogers (Lions)
DT C. Hampton (Steelers)
DE Redding (Lions)

LB M. Wilkins (Falcons)
LB D. Johnson (Chiefs)
LB DD Lewis (Broncos)

CB Vasher (Bears)
CB Jammer (Chargers)

S Huff (Raiders)
S M. Griffin (Titans)

Bench
DT Okam (College)
DT Tubbs (Seahawks)
DE Robison (Vikings)
CB A. Ross (Giants)
CB C. Griffin (Vikings)

ST
P ?
K Dawson (Browns)
R A. Ross (Giants)

Summary – This defense is stout up the middle, with two big boys at tackle in Shaun Rogers and Casey Hampton, and Derrick Johnson behind them. The secondary is strong as well, with Nathan Vasher, Quentin Jammer, Michael Huff and Michael Griffin. Aaron Ross and Cedric Griffin come off the bench to provide an elite nickel and dime package. The only real weakness is the pass rush.

Overall – This team drools physical strength. They’re big everywhere. The offense will pound the ball, with Vince making his trademark game-changing plays. The defense will be tough to run against and opposing receivers will get alligator arms.

Help – Which punter should don the burnt orange for the Alumni squad?

Can the Barber Brothers Get UVa Into the Tourney?

Archived from MVN.com (2007)
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. For NFL fanatics like myself, this time of year can be a little slow. The off-season personnel market is closed and training camp is still months away. What to do? Go outside and enjoy the weather? Come on, we can do better than that. Let’s make up a tournament!

My buddy Billy and I have debated who would have the best “All Alumni” teams among the college football powers. Miami? USC? Texas? Wouldn’t it be great to actually find out? Send all the alumni from pro football back to school for a weekend to decide who has the best Alumni squad.

They’d play at the college stadiums, in their college uniforms, under the current college head coach. To make it even more interesting, allow the current student-athletes to play as well. We cut a week out of the pre-season and training camp to allow for NFL Alumni Week.

How fun would that be? Watching stars young and old fight for their school’s honor. Any Alumni of the school could play, including retired NFL players. Maybe a guy like Troy Aikman or Bruce Smith or Tiki Barber would come back for one game. Maybe they recapture some of their glory or perhaps they fail miserably; either way its entertaining.

Colleges would love the extra publicity and money, plus the chance to earn the moniker of Best Football Powerhouse. College players would get the chance to measure themselves against the best of the best. This would also include some legendary ass-whippings, as college kids would have to face grown men on the gridiron. You wouldn’t watch a 220 lb defensive end get rag-dolled by Jonathan Ogden?

NFL players would gladly welcome a break from training camp and preseason to go back to being the campus stud for a week. NFL execs, assuming they get some “licensing fees” for their players, might be interested. NFL coaches, well, they would hate the idea, with possible injuries and lost practice time.

Since this idea has no chance of actually happening, we’ll have to live it out virtually. We’ll do a March Madness style tournament, and vote the winners each week. 16 teams, one bracket, 1 vs 16, 2 vs 15, etc. Voting will be split between readers and the MVN writers, and I’ll break the ties.

First, we’ll present you with the top Alumni teams and we’ll ask you to help pick the field of 16, plus, tweak the lineups as necessary. Then, each week, we’ll do the game by game match-ups and vote the winners. Before you know it we’ll have an Alumni Champion and it’ll be training camp time!

Maybe some NFL exec will realize how great this would be and bring it up during a league meeting. Maybe I’m just bored and daydreaming. Either way, it’ll be a fun way to talk football until we get some real news.

I’ve moved over to MVN.com, writing for the Cowboys Roundup.  Check out my latest posts at http://mvn.com/nfl-cowboys/ .  I’ll still be maintaining this site as my archive of posts and who knows what else.

This week I drift into a draft reverie…