Omaha Oracle Fumbles On Taxes

When you tax something, you get less of it. This simplistic theory is Economics 101, which is why it is so very puzzling that the worlds most successful investor, Warren E. Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway of Omaha, is so out to lunch on taxation. Is he having lunchtime bananas with the monkeys over at Doorly Zoo?

As a fellow Nebraskan, Cornhusker and stock investor, I have long admired Warren Buffett, often employing many of his techniques in my investment philosophy. Like Mr. Buffett, I am a longtime shareholder of The Coca Cola Company (KO:NYSE) and I do own shares of Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B:NYSE). I have always listened carefully to Buffett on market matters, noting his analysis and transactions on the corner of Wall and Broad.

Buffett, now ranking as third among the most wealthy individuals in the world, and unfortunately a big supporter of President Obama, wrote an opinion piece recently in The Wall Street Journal, championing the need for revenues (raising of taxes) and an increase in the level of taxation among the wealthiest Americans. In other words, taking money from successful individuals to give to those who for whatever reason have failed to achieve high levels of income. That is like Nebraska giving a less fortunate Kansas State three touchdowns. Absurd!

Buffett's unyielding support of President Obama, who has destroyed job creation and investment with his high taxation, expansive regulatory control and wealth redistribution policies, is bewildering. PGA golfer Paul Azinger has created more jobs than Obama. But for Buffett to editorialize support for policies that run against sound free market economic theory suggests the best days of Buffett may be behind him.

Buffett claims his secretary pays higher taxes in relative terms than he does. Since Buffett draws the greater majority of his income through stock dividends, this statement is thankfully accurate. Investors Business Daily explains and properly calls Buffett out.

Berkshire Hathaway's stock price has been diving since about the time Buffett editorialized, or when Obama and his policies handed Uncle Sam his first credit downgrade. Given the thought process behind the piece and the economic policies Obama and Buffett are eager to employ, one can certainly understand why. Furthermore, Buffett and Berkshire actually have tax issues to deal with, an incredible irony considering. Where is Timothy Geithner when you need him?

The bottom line is Buffett is far off the mark. Government has been criminally negligent engaging on a spending spree which is set to bankrupt generations. Given that alone, government has demonstrated their inability to efficiently utilize the tax dollars they do receive. For America to emerge out this economic malaise, regulations must be retracted and tax rates need to be lowered, allowing businesses, entrepreneurs and small business to to create, innovate and flourish. This will increase the tax receipts the government receives all the while putting American citizens back to work, restoring pride and dignity to our first class workforce.

At such time, would it be too much to ask for government to discontinue rewarding bad behavior, cease all redistribution of wealth policies and spend our tax dollars wisely? As you may have heard across the fruited plain recently, we are TEA, or taxed enough already.

Sunday Night Song

As you may have heard, Glen Campbell has announced that he has Alzheimer's disease. Health permitting, Glen will turn the Goodtime Hour into a Goodbye Tour. A scheduled date in Central Florida in early 2012 will find my family in attendance.

Glen and his wife Kim spoke with ABC News Nightline earlier this week:



In the interview, Glen mentioned his favorite song of his illustrious career. Still on the line, it was the Jimmy Webb composition Wichita Lineman, which is tonights Sunday Night Song. Enjoy!

2011 Florida State Seminoles Preview

OFFENSE

Florida State will enter 2011 with a new quarterback, but then again, EJ Manuel is very experienced with significant playing time and having engineered two bowl victories. Manuel is an imposing figure at 6'4", 235, and he is quite dangerous running the football. The outside passing game is strong with Manuel, but he has shown issues in the past working the middle of the field. Manuel is only a redshirt junior, so he has everything still in front of him. A stable of experienced wideouts would help, but the Seminoles receiving core, although talented, is ready for a few players to emerge as game breakers. Bert Reed seems poised, while Willie Haulstead and Rodney Smith have shown flashes of speed and ability, particularly Smith who at 6'6", should be money in the red zone. A committee of running backs keep everyone fresh. Chris Thompson is far more consistent than his challengers and has goodbye speed, but Jermaine Thomas and Ty Jones are very solid. Two freshman, Devonta Freeman and James Wilder, Jr., seem mature and ready to push for playing time. Lonnie Pryor is an outstanding fullback, slotback, running and receiving threat out of the backfield. The offensive line lost some valuable members, but Coach Rick Trickett likes his group. Andrew Datko is very good at tackle and Zebrie Sanders is as well, but both have had injury issues. Trickett cannot stop raving about C Jakob Fahrenkrug, a JC transfer who will start day one and has a brilliant future. David Spurlock is another good player, who also has had injury issues. Jacob Stanley, Byron Stork and Henry Orelus will be counted on to step up, and a few new faces will be counted on to provided depth. This is the Seminoles most vulnerable position.

DEFENSE

Two season ago, this unit was a mess, getting torched repeatedly. Mark Stoops came in last fall and did a phenomenal job, turning the unit not only into a respectable unit, it became a unit ready to aggressively take over a ball game, as South Carolina can attest to. For 2011, the Seminoles will field one of the nations best stop troops, a unit that is young and blessed with quality depth. Defensively, it all starts up front, where FSU welcomes back Brandon Jenkins, among the nations leaders in sacks a year ago. Jenkins is considered by most media outlets an All America player. Sophomore Bjoern Werner has emerged as a quite a player opposite Jenkins, while in the middle, Jacobbi McDaniel, Everette Dawkins and Anthony McCloud form a solid nucleus, fighting off challenges from a host of young teammates, including true freshman Tim Jernigan. ILB Nigel Bradham returns to lead the linebacking core, where an abundance of young talent seems ready to elevate their game. Christian Jones out of Winter Park Lake Howell, Vince Williams from Davenport look to hold off Telvin Smith and Jeff Luc among others for the starting spots. All these guys will play and FSU has total confidence in each of them. The secondary is a real strength on this team. Greg Reid, know for his gifted nose for the ball and return capabilities, has emerged into a total player at field corner, able to lay the wood when needed. Xavier Rhodes has NFL scouts drooling at boundary corner, with Nick Waisome and Mike Harris as alternates. Lamarcus Joyner is in a strong safety and a real battle in fall camp between Nick Moody and Terrance Parks for free safety has everyone buzzing, meaning both are very solid. True freshman Karlos Williams may get in the mix as well, and he has the look of a future superstar.

INTANGIBLES

The schedule is again among the nations toughest. FSU will welcome preseason #1 Oklahoma to Doak Campbell with ESPN's College Football Gameday coming along. While FSU could still accomplish almost all of it's goals, including an ACC title, a state title, a BCS berth and a National Championship (would need help) with a loss to OU, this is a big game to set the tone for the season, carving in stone the return of FSU to the nations elite. Win or lose, a very tough game, which could derail most of FSU's goals, come the following week at Clemson. FSU will need mental toughness, but this is part of the program Jimbo has been installing since he took over. FSU will also have a very good kicking game, which can be a major factor in winning close games. Miami has issues, but while Florida seems down, they have top level talent and could put it all together as the 'Noles come calling., so count on that being a tough game.

HONORS CANDIDATES

EJ Manuel has a chance to be All ACC with Russell Wilson gone from NC State. If he can remain healthy, Andrew Datko would be All ACC as well, and I think Chris Thompson, provided he is on the field enough and Rodney Smith could be all conference as well. Brandon Jenkins is All America and Greg Reid, should he contiue to improve, is as well. Nigel Bradham is minimum All ACC, with Joyner, Rhodes, McDaniel and Werner having a chance. Dustin Hopkins at placekicker could also challenge for national honors.

NEW ARRIVALS

A top notch recruiting class will yield several contributors to this years squad. JC transfer Jacob Fahrenkrug is anchored at center, already demonstrating veteran leadership at a very tough position. Nick Waisome will play at corner, while Karlos Williams seems poised to get on the field at safety, while Devonta Freeman and James Wilder, Jr. may find the field at running back. JC transfer Cornellius Carradine could emerge at backup rush end and Timmy Jernigan is turning heads on the defensive line. Given the squad coming back, it is a testament to the incoming talent for this many players to be challenging for playing time.

FINAL ANALYSIS

Last year we saw FSU winning the Atlantic and playing for the ACC title noting the future is bright. We hit it dead on. This season, the Seminoles will employ stifling defensive unit full of depth, which puts FSU in every game. The offense will gain strength as the season progresses and Manuel becomes seasoned. A win over OU could springboard FSU into the title hunt, and it just might happen. For FSU to reach that high, the offensive line will have to hold up and remain free from major injury, for depth in this area is a major concern. The 'Noles may well be a year away from National Title talk, but maybe not.

GAMEDAY GALLLERY

PLAYER PHOTOS/Getty Images

2011 Nebraska Cornhuskers Preview

OFFENSE
Over the last several years, while Nebraska has been playing top notch defense, the offense, while at times showing promise, continued to fail to live up to expectations. The 'Huskers appeared to be shaking off the offensive woes last fall, led by Freshman quarterback Taylor Martinez. T-Magic looked brilliant at times, but he got hurt and the offense lost all sense of potency. Bo Pelini made a change at the coordinator position for 2011, a welcomed development to be sure in Cornhusker country. Tim Beck takes over, and the offense his is installing is one that should accentuate the skills of Martinez. If Martinez is healthy, I think he could be a superstar, as I think his passing skills are underrated. Up front, the pipeline has seemed broken in recent years, but this line has the opportunity to be very good. Mike Caputo is solid at center, and Andrew Rodriguez is a future star. Marcel Jones, Jeremiah Sirles and Jermarcus Hardrick are experienced tackles. Coaches are also high on Brent Qvale at guard. Rex Burkhead is a multi talented back, who should easily surpass 1000 yards this year. A pair of freshman, Aaron Green and Ameer Abdullah could see significant playing time. Kyler Reed is a weapon at tight end. Brandon Kinnie returns to lead the receiving core, but behind him there is limited experience. A couple of players need to stand up at this position, but an emerging star in Jamal Turner, a true freshman who arrived early and shined in spring drills, has the skill set to immediately be a difference maker on the field. Kenny Bell and baseballer Khiry Cooper are among those who could emerge at the wideout position.

DEFENSE

The Blackshirts will be nothing short of smothering this fall, without doubt the strength of this football team. Up front, All America DT Jared Crick is a top NFL draft pick, who has the rare combination of size and speed, a run stuffer and fearsome pass rusher. Baker Steinkhuler will join Crick on the interior to form perhaps the best defensive tackle duo in the nation. Carmeron Meredith, a proven player, returns on the outside, but Eric Martin, Jason Ankrah, Josh Williams and Joseph Carter are in the fight for the other DE spot. Martin is a fierce hitter, so if he can grasp the playbook, he could emerge as a real difference maker. Lavonte David, in his first season with the 'Huskers in 2010, had a record breaking year in tackles at inside linebacker and earned honorable mention All America honors. David is a sure fire All America selection this fall, and should be in the mix for the Butkus Award; a truly great player. Sean Fisher and Will Compton, both injured a year ago, are back and are very good linebackers. Depth is unproven at this spot, but the starters are very good. Alfonzo Dennard returns for his senior year at cornerback, and is pre-season All America. He is a little gimpy to start the year, but he will be fine and dominate the field side. Ciante Evans, who played very well after being thrown into the fire a year ago, is talented and should settle in at boundary corner. Anthony Blue is solid as a backup, and Dijon Washington is making progress and looks like the next player in. Courtney Osborne, PJ Smith, Corey Cooper and Austin Cassidy are the safeties. I would like to see one of these guys become a real force at this position this fall.

INTANGIBLES

Unthinkable 2 years ago, the Cornhuskers are now members of the Big Ten Conference. Although the Big Ten has perennial power Ohio State, the Buckeyes are staggered from off the field issues that leave them with suspended players and an interim coach. Although Coach Pelini played at Ohio State and has familiarity of the stadiums and climate of the conference, it will still be new for Nebraska having to learn about all the new teams while each prior Big Ten team will only need to study NU. Even so, Nebraska is the best team in this conference and has the tools to overcome a brutal schedule. A trip to Wisconsin seems to be the major hurdle they will need to tackle, although late road contests at Penn State and Michigan sound difficult. The 'Huskers will have Iowa as the new rival with regular season ending contests, but this year it is in Lincoln. Outside the conference, Washington, who after getting pummelled by the 'Husker in Seattle earlier in the year, roughed up a flat and unmotivated Nebraska team in the Holiday Bowl. Nebraska was embarrassed, and so was I. So, I think the Huskies will not find their trip to Lincoln and enjoyable one.

HONORS CANDIDATES

Jared Crick will be considered for the Outland, Lombardi and Bednarik Trophies and win All American honors from his defensive tackle position. Lavonte David will earn All America honors and will be among the favorites for the Butkus Award. Alfonzo Dennard could also win All America honors and should be on the Jim Thorpe short list. Rex Burkhead and Taylor Martinez could earn all conference honors as well.

NEW ARRIVALS

Jamal Turner, a true freshman who enrolled early and participated in spring drills, showed flashes of brilliance. Recruited as a quarterback, Turner has moved to wideout to get on the field. He should figure prominently at both wide receiver and as a return man in the kicking game. Aaron Green was highly ranked in the ESPN 150 and given the lack of proven depth at tailback, he has an opportunity to star if he is the real deal. Brion Carnes looks great as the backup quarterback and Jake Cotton, along with Tyler Moore from Clearwater Countryside is making some noise on the offensive line.

FINAL ANALYSIS

Nebraska will face a slew of obstacles this fall. Most importantly, they face a difficult schedule as they enter the Big Ten Conference, which by itself presents a myriad of unfamiliarity. Each of those teams will have it out for the Big Red. On top of that, Nebraska will be working with a new offensive coordinator, who has installed a new offense. This is a good development long term, but may have some test in the short term. QB Taylor Martinez is another wild card, for if he can remain healthy and regain the "magic", it could elevate the 'Huskers to national title consideration. Unfortunately, as evidenced by the home game with Texas and the bowl game, last fall, The Big Red seems to lack the mental toughness to bring it each week, although this may have been a result of the poor play by the offense. Nebraska should win the Big Ten, but will likely have a loss along they way, which keeps them out of the National Title hunt. Martinez will be the key, and if he can strike magic, look out because the defense will be smothering.

GAMEDAY GALLERY

Is The Game Up?

The US financial markets blew up in 2008 in the aftermath of a housing crisis, a bubble caused by easy money and governmental influence, one far from in conclusion. According to the Obama administration, their policies pulled the US economy from the brink of depression and have jump started a recovery. And I am King Tut.

Birth Pangs. Day by day since, there continue to be warning signs of global financial collapse across the globe. From France burning two years ago to London two weeks ago, the natives are restless and are lashing out.

Broken in spirit, void of incentive and corralled from leadership, the youth who were promised a gravy train from a central planning government are violently attacking now that the money has run out. A history of Margaret Thatcher would seem appropriate.

Europe, joined at the hip in promoting global socialism, and through inclusion in the EU, search for stability by limiting member governments from operating independently with the necessary flexibility to innovate and increase production and individual wealth. Who could have seen the negative fall out coming?

Nigel Farage for one.

Farage hits a home run, one which should be absorbed as a shot heard round the world. Investors Business Daily notes in today's edition that Euro Zone debt fears start to hit France as the 10 year yield spread between France and Germany has tripled in recent weeks, which could be foretelling the financial contagion is spreading to the heart of Europe, just as Farage predicted.

Former FED Chair Alan Greenspan, The Maestro, who contributed to the easy money platform the housing crisis sprang from, weighed in on the Euro today, noting “The euro is breaking down and the process of its breaking down is creating very considerable difficulties in the European banking system,” Greenspan continues the European contraction would hurt profitability and stock values of American companies. You think?

The more central planners plan, the more their plans fail. The more their plans fail, the more they plan. Continue as they must to contain the fallout, we know one thing. Well, it won't work.

Greenspan correctly pointed out “The problem is that there is a growing cleavage in the economic and analytical and banking circles as to whether the Euro, which is the crucial issue here, should be 17 countries with very significantly different cultures” regarding the role of government, consumer spending and inflation. Indeed, while there can be alliances to further trade agreements, each country should have independent currencies for sound monetary policies to anchor allowing the necessary flexibility needed to create sustainable growth.

This is not the case in Europe, and with America moving swiftly to a cradle to grave entitlement nanny state, a global collapse is all but certain. PIIGS don't fly. Bailouts will lead to more bailouts, and at some point the money runs out.

Farage is quite right in hoping market principles derail the central planning elites prior to the spirit of the individual being lost for eternity. It is the principals of free market capitalism that provides the best path prosperity, and we must seek out and associate with leaders who are rock solid on this principle before the game is up.

Of course, in America, we always have the voting booth to cleanse out those void of our founding principles. At least for now.

The Right Decision

Many young men are coming face to face with the decision of a lifetime, one which will no doubt play a very significant role in their future. Although I don't usually like the decision, more often than not, the young men are making the right call.

Although I am a casual Major League Baseball fan, college football is my sport, a sport losing several potential All America type players to the hardball. In fact, it seems my teams, Florida State and Nebraska, were sent on a MLB caused coordinated slide.

It appears it all began when Nebraska signed a player from Houston Jefferson Davis to a national letter of intent, who was a first round MLB selection. Carl Crawford is now among the top players in Major League Baseball, moving this past year from the Tampa Bay Rays over to the Boston Red Sox. Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke, signed by Florida State out of Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN, spent six years with the Toronto Blue Jays before returning to Florida State and winning the national championship and playing half a decade in the NFL. The Seminoles were stung again when three sport superstar Joe Mauer, remarkably out the same high school as Weinke, never enrolled at FSU, rather becoming the top player on the MLB diamond as a catcher with the hometown Minnesota Twins. While Weinke was never close to achieving the success of Crawford or Mauer on the diamond or in terms of financial compensation, he earned a nice financial foundation playing minor league ball, and post FSU in the NFL.

This year, another decision had to be made. Enter Bubba Starling, a top rated signal caller, who signed with Nebraska although he was certain to be a top draft pick in baseball. Starling was highlighted in a piece by Sports Illustrated earlier this spring. Take a look:



Like Mauer, Starling was selected by his hometown team, the Kansas City Royals, as the fifth pick in the draft. Football at the University of Nebraska or a big paycheck and a chance to play for years with the Royals, significantly lessening the chance of a career ending injury.

As you may suspect, although I think Starling really wanted to play pigskin with the Big Red, he signed on with the Kansas City Royals, reportedly signing a deal worth a guaranteed $7.5 million. Starling made the right decision no doubt. Most 'Huskers are also Royals fans, myself included, and the Royals future is bright as they have a fine young team that will no doubt be enhanced by the skills Starling possess. Starling will be joining Alex Gordon, the NCAA National Player of the Year as a senior baseballer at Nebraska in the Royals outfield.

I join Nebraska Coach Bo Pelini and Cornhuskers nationwide in wishing Bubba Starling all the best. Say Hi to George and Go Big Red!

Rumbling in the Heartland

Sarah Palin is laying the groundwork for an unconventional presidential run, one that will shatter the pundits wisdom on how to get elected. America is clamoring for an outside of Washington common sense leader who can put to work the entrepreneurial spirit of the American people and unleash the economic firepower of this proud nation.



America the beautiful. Heck Yeah and Right On!

College Football 2011 Preseason Top 25

As we embark on the 2011, the college football landscape has been drastically altered since we kicked off a year ago. The long arm of the NCAA law reached far and wide, which has North Carolina and Ohio State with interim head coaches. But far more meaningful was conference realignment, ushered in by the arrogant actions of The University of Texas, which led to departures from the Big XII as Colorado goes to the Pac 10 (now the Pac 12 with Utah also coming aboard) and Nebraska moving to the Big Ten. It will be interesting. Last fall, although we did note it was the type of season for someone under the radar to get in the title mix, we had our worst season in recent memory nailing the top contenders. We were not alone. Again this year, there is not a clear favorite and someone could sneak out of the pack as Auburn did a year ago, perhaps Texas A&M? As we tighten up the chin strap, it will once again be exciting season. Please feel welcome to use the comment link to give us your thoughts.

PRESEASON TOP 25

1. Oklahoma
Oklahoma looked primed to play for the title last season, but they got a bit complacent and let Mizzou and the Texas Aggies get the best of them. This season, behind a veteran team loaded with skill position talent, OU is the favorite. Landry Jones leads an offense ready to score points a plenty. Jones will operate behind a veteran line, and has Ryan Broyles is back as among the most prolific wideouts in the country to throw to. OU is excited about frosh Brandon Williams at running back, along with Roy Finch. OU may now have some defensive weakness. LB Austin Box tragically passed away in the offseason, and fresh into fall camp All America OLB Travis Lewis may now miss half the year with a foot injury. Even so, OU is stout up front behind Ronnel Lewis while Tony Jefferson is All Big XII at rover. If OU wins at Florida State as a favorite, all they need to do is knock out Oklahoma State on the road to play for the title.

2. Alabama
If only a proven signal caller returned for the Crimson Tide. As such, two talented players are fighting it out to lead the Tide, AJ McCarron and Phillip Sims. While Mark Ingram and Julio Jones are gone, BAMA returns Trent Richardson at running back to run behind a very talented and seasoned offensive line. Marquis Maze gives whoever wins the QB job a fleet target to fire to. Defensively, BAMA is smothering. Josh Chapman anchors the front, allowing for the outside and inside linebacking crew to wreak havoc, and that they will. Courtney Upshaw is a beast, while Donta Hightower is an All America inside. The Tide has the best secondary, with All America candidates Dre Kirkpatrick and safeties Robert Lester and Mark Baroon lurking about. This is shutdown central. Can the young signal callers grow up before that SEC schedule gets tough? A up and coming Arkansas team awaits in week 4, followed by a trip to the Swamp. If BAMA is vulnerable, it is early.

3. Florida State
Florida State may be a year away, but make no mistake; the Seminoles are back. Florida State will ride its swarming defense while the offense develops a balances arsenal of firepower. DE Brandon Jenkins, who lived in opposing backfields a year ago, could lead the nation in sacks. A bevy of young but stout defensive lineman give FSU a large rotation up front, while Nigel Bradham cleans up. The secondary is very good, with Xavier Rhodes and Greg Reid at the corners and LaMarcus Joyner at safety. Several young players, including incoming freshman Karlos Williams, give the Seminoles a talented depth chart in the defensive backfield. EJ Manuel, who Jimbo Fisher raves about, will take over at quarterback for FSU, but he is a former Gator Bowl MVP and has extensive playing time in big games. Chris Thompson leads a running back by committee for the 'Noles and a slew of receivers are ready to shine, including Rodney Smith. If Manual can excel early while younger talent develops, FSU will get better each week and will be among the nations best at the end of the season. If the 'Noles come out of the gate strong and upset OU in Tally early, provided FSU wins a tough road trip at Clemson the next game, a spot in the national title game will be there for the taking.

4. Louisiana State
Now that things have settled up in Ann Arbor, LSU Coach Les Miles can focus on winning, and the National Title is the goal. LSU served notice for 2011 by thrashing a good Texas A&M team in the Cotton Bowl behind a strong performance by QB Jordan Jefferson. If Jefferson sees the field like he did picking A&M apart, look out. LSU returns eight offensive starters. The Tigers are always stingy on defense, and although the loss of CB Peterson will hurt, the Bayou Bengals will still be tough against the pass behind Morris Claiborne. They do have to replace the line, but the talent is there. LSU kicks everything off against Oregon, and a win there could propel them to great things. A road tilt at powerhouse Alabama in October will determine who is King of the SEC.

5. Oregon
Fresh off a tough loss to Auburn in last years National Championship game, The Quack Attack have officially arrived. The prolific offense is firing on all cylinders and opponents can hardly keep up. With multi-task talented signal caller Darron Thomas back, flanked by All America tailback LaMichael James, what could derail the Ducks? For starters, the NCAA is snooping around, and that lingering problem can take a mental toll. On the field, both lines have been depleted. Skill positions are not a problem for Oregon, and the defense is led by All America corner Cliff Harris. With a couple breaks, Oregon could return to the BCS title game, but they face LSU early, a team that has speed and will make you pay if you are weak on the interior. They do travel to Stanford, a fine football team for sure. Oregon is very good, but it is in the trenches where they will fall just short.

6. Stanford
Stanford had a stellar season a year ago behind exceptional signal caller Andrew Luck. The season culminated with a thumping of Va. Tech in the Orange Bowl. Shortly after that, Coach Jim Harbaugh bolted over to the 49ers, but Luck did not go the NFL and returns to carve up Pac-12 defenses. The Cardinal will score plenty, and have a sound running game to compliment Luck, with tailback Stephan Taylor, who ran for 1137 yards in 2010. Only two starters return up front, but both, Jonathan Martin and David DeCastro, are All Pac 12 at a minimum, with DeCastro getting All America recognition from numerous media outlets. Stanford has a very strong secondary, no doubt partially due to defending Luck in practice, led by CB Delano Howell. Only one starter returns up front for the 3-4 defensive scheme the Cardinal employ, with two linebackers returning. Stanford misses upstart Arizona State, plays at USC and gets Oregon and Notre Dame at home, so the schedule could be much worse. Luck can carry this team far, but likely not all the way to a BCS Championship. Then again, who was sitting around four years ago and thinking they would mention National Title and Stanford in the same sentence?

7. Nebraska
Behind an exciting fleet of foot quarterback, Nebraska seemed poised for big things a year ago. But Taylor Martinez got shut down by Texas, and then got hurt during a blowout of highly ranked Missouri, and the wheels fell off offensively for the Big Red. Even still, Nebraska almost beat Oklahoma in the Big XII title game, but then went to the Holiday Bowl and laid an egg versus Washington, a team they crushed earlier in the year. Martinez is back, and the offense has been revamped to fit his style of play better. T-Magic could be a special player. Rex Burkhead is back at running back while Brandon Kinnie at wideout and tight end Kyler Reed are weapons in the receiving game. The Blackshirts will be nothing short of smothering. Jared Crick is a beast up front, Lavonte David from Miami Northwestern is a record setting tackler and Alfonzo Dennard looks like a top draft pick at cornerback; all three All Americans. Nebraska enters the Big Ten this year, and the schedule is very tough. But, with Ohio State staggering from the off the field issues, Nebraska must win at Wisconsin and the Big Ten title is theirs. But don't worry, who is the real Big Red? Nebraska is, by far.

8. Texas A&M
Mike Sherman began his coaching career in Aggieland by suffering an 18-14 loss at home to Arkansas State in 2008. He was lucky to retain employment after that. However, since that time, look what has happened. A&M, after finally deciding on a seemingly divisive quarterback battle, settled in on Ryan Taneyhill and as the defense grew stronger, A&M became a top ten team. The Aggies will be potent on offense this year behind Taneyhill, a veteran line and All America tailback Cyrus Gray, a Heisman dark horse who ran for 1133 yards a year ago. Although superstar linebacker Von Miller is gone, The Wrecking Crew remains as nine starter return on the stop side. Garrett Williams had 112 stops a year ago, and behind him, big things are expected defensively. The Aggies won six in row to close the year, dumping OU and Nebraska before falling to a very strong LSU in the Cotton Bowl. With Oklahoma State coming to College Station, a road contest in Norman could be the only contest late in early November is the only contest A&M figures to be an underdog. Gray and Taneyhill are the real deal, and so is the defense, so look out.

9. Oklahoma State
The Pokes were poised to make a title run two years ago but faltered. Last season, they were expected to take a step back but behind talented signal caller Brandon Wheeden, Oklahoma State was a solid top 15 team all year. This year, much of the firepower returns, including All America wideout Justin Blackmon. For OSU to take the next step, it will need to step up the defense. S Markell Martin provides them with a ball hawking player to build around. The kicking game is always above average and The schedule has any early trip to emerging Texas A&M but finds OU visiting Stillwater at seasons end.

10. Boise State
For those thinking the Broncos will disappear in the night from the national stage, think again. After holding on to take out Va. Tech to start the season, the Broncos were flying high until a decent Nevada team upended them. Much of that team is back, including All America quarterback Kellen Moore. Moore has Doug Martin, who ran for 1598 in obscurity last fall and three lineman back. The wideouts are new, but Moore is the most accurate passer in the country. Defensively, BSU is very tough through the middle, but they are green in the secondary. The Broncos travel to Atlanta to take on a Georgia team with plenty to prove, so that will be a tough game. After that, only home games with Nevada and TCU can stop the undefeated season.

11. South Carolina
The Gamecocks elevated their game, and took advantage of down years at UGA, Florida and Tennessee to capture the SEC East last year, no small task. South Carolina will be the favorite again this year, with 14 starters back and some very talented skill players. Marcus Lattimore, All American as a workhorse freshman running back last fall, is back ready to improve his numbers. Stephen Garcia, if he can stay focused and out of the doghouse, can be great, and throwing to All America standout Alshon Jeffrey will not hurt. All SEC Corner Stephen Gilmore leads a defense with several good players, and throw in top recruit Jadeveon Clowney at DE, and this unit could be special. Don't think they leave Atlanta with the title but they will be there.

12. Arkansas
Arkansas broke out last season, losing to Alabama, National Champion Auburn and Ohio State in the Sugar Bowl, beating LSU along the way. Although talented signal caller Ryan Mallet is gone, Tyler Wilson is ready to direct Bobby Petrino's high octane offense. Greg Childs and Joe Adams are playmakers on the outside, so even with a young line, expect points. The Razorbacks were better than you think on defense a year ago, are decent up front and at linebacker, so they will be stout. Arkansas must travel to Alabama and LSU, faces Auburn, South Carolina and Miss. State at home and goes neutral against upstart Texas A&M. It looks like 3 losses for sure, but Arkansas is a good football team.

13. Wisconsin
On an annual basis, Wisconsin produces a punishing rushing attack, and with a stable of stellar backs and experienced line, this season will be no different. The Badgers lost their talented signal caller, but scored huge in reeling in former NC State standout Russell Wilson. Wilson, booted from the Wolfpack for not giving up baseball, is primed to take over and he is nothing short of a playmaker, which will give the Badgers a dimension not previously seen up there. Antonio Fenelus is a top corner, the line is strong and if linebacker Chris Borland is ready, the defense will be fine. With the trouble at Ohio State, the Badgers win the Leaders Division and get a second crack at the other Big Red, Nebraska.

14. Virginia Tech
Tech is looking to replace Tyrod Taylor at quarterback, and Taylor was a real playmaker. Logan Thomas takes over, and the coaches say he is ready to go and have trouble containing their excitement about him. As usual, Tech will have a strong running game with experienced backs behind a seasoned line. Jarrett Boykin is All ACC at wideout. Tech suffered losses on the stop side, but is always stingy on defense. Corner Jayron Hosley is All America. Clemson and Miami are at home, and a trip to Atlanta for Ga. Tech is the toughest road tilt, so although the 'Hokies will be down a bit, they could be undefeated playing Florida State in the ACC title game, which they will lose.

15. Notre Dame
I always found it amusing for the preseason annual to throw Notre Dame in the mix in an effort to sell magazines. This year is no different, and while Athlons may be out of their mind placing the Irish sixth, there is little doubt Notre Dame is a top twenty team. Sixteen starters return, eight on both sides of the ball. Brian Kelly found the Irish offense in fair shape when he arrived, but the Irish made strides on the stop side a year ago. Although more production is necessary at quarterback, the offense could be very strong, particularly if WR Michael Floyd is focused. Junior linebacker Manti Te'o leads the defensive unit. The schedule is always challenging, but if you believe in Brian Kelly, this team has the tools to have one of the best seasons in recent memory.

16. Texas Christian
Given all the talent TCU lost, you might be surprised to see them ranked, but you would also be surprised at the overall talent of this team. Andy Dalton is gone at quarterback, but Casey Pachall seems ready, and TCU offers a strong running game to help him grow along with returning both starting wideouts. Tank Carter leads TCU defensively from his linebacker position. The secondary has two strong senior players in Greg McCoy and Tekerrin Cuba lurking back there. The Horned Frogs are not the team they were a year ago, but they are good. The season starts at Baylor, which could be trouble, but get by that and only a late trip to Boise State seems to tall a task for TCU.

17. West Virginia
Bill Stewart seemed to be resigned to the fact that this season would be his last as HC in Morgantown with Oklahoma State offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen coming in as OC to take over next year. This messy arrangement already has blown up, and Stewart is gone. Certainly, one has to wonder how this effect the team, as no doubt, there are Stewart supporters miffed at how he was treated. If this can be put behind the team, the offense should sparkle under the leadership of All Big East quarterback Geno Smith. Smith can play, and although Noel Devine is gone at tailback, several talented runners remain, and a bevy of fleet footed receivers are back to stretch the field. So, the chains may be moving for WVU, but unfortunately, maybe on both sides of the ball. Bruce Irvin is set to have a big season on the end of the Mounties 3-3-5 defense, and although WVU has to replace three secondary starters, ball hawking cornerback Keith Tandy is back to build on his six oskies if 2010. The Big East title is wide open for West Virginia, a title run only actions by an administration could derail.

18. Georgia
Suspensions and injuries threw the Dawgs a curve ball right out of the gate in 2010, and they really never recovered, with the season culminating with an embarrassing bowl loss to Central Florida. The season has put popular Coach Mark Richt on the hot seat, and without significant success this fall, he could be unemployed as mediocrity won't work in Athens (although Vince Dooley was 8-3 central without Herschel). Georgia should be better, and with an experienced quarterback in Aaron Murray, the offense should be good. Murray has his high school teammate Orson Charles at tight end, and UGA welcomes highly sought after frosh Isaiah Crowell, who will be starting. Tavarres King is strong target for Murray as well, and he will need help as the big uglies find themselves. The Dawgs need to bite defensively, and are solid up front. Christian Robinson at backer and Brandon Boykin in the secondary will lead the Dawgs. Georgia has the best kicking game in the country, which will pay big dividends. Highly ranked Boise State visits right out of the gate (Atlanta, not between the hedges), providing quite an opportunity for the Junkyard Dawgs.

19. Ohio State
The Buckeyes were set to challenge for the national title with Terelle Pryor returning to lead a veteran team, then late last year a very troubling set of NCAA violations came to light. Liar Liar Vest on Fire, Jim Tressell is now out of work and Terelle Pryor is gone, and all that is left is suspensions and a team in turmoil. But, this is a veteran team still, and a talented one at that. Offensively, it will back to the basics, and it can start behind All America center and Orlando Edgewater product Mike Brewster. Tailback Daniel Herron is out for five games, points will be tough for a while. Only four starters return on defense, so it could be shaky early, particularly on the road in south Florida against the Hurricanes. Unknowns abound for the Bucks, but talent is there. At best, three losses for Big Nut and the Buckeyes.

20. Michigan State
Michigan State surprised many in 2011, spending much of the season ranked in the top ten and sharing the Big Ten title. Behind Kirk Cousins, a very efficient signal caller, points were not a problem. With standout back Edwin Baker and much of the receiving core returning, they will lite the scoreboard again this fall. In their losses a year ago, it was the defense that fell short, and the pounding Alabama gave them in the Capital One Bowl in lovely downtown Orlando may leave a loss of confidence. Yes, it was that bad. But MSU does return most of the D-lines and Johnny Adams is a ball hawking corner, so there is talent to work with. Cousins will carry the Spartans into bowl play, but they will not share the conference title in 2011.

21. Mississippi State
Former Florida assistant Dan Mullen is doing a fantastic job in Starkville, and the nation is noticing. Most thought he was bound for Gainesville after Meyer stepped down, but he a very good team coming back this fall, and if they were not in the toughest spot in College Football, a division with Alabama and LSU, they would be BCS bound. Even still, they may sneak in there. State returns each skill starter, and QB Chris Relf is better than you think. The line suffered losses, but Mullen has got talent now to turn to. All linebacking starters have departed, but while they welcome transfer linebacker Brandon Maye from Clemson, State is strong up front and in the secondary. The schedule is brutal, but Mississippi State will punch you right in the teeth.

22. Florida
The Gators seemed primed for a title run last year, even though they were breaking in a new signal caller. Almost immediately, even snapping the ball seemed difficult for the Gators. A tough loss here and there and the team came apart, with Urban Meyer actually stepping down for good this time. Will Muschamp comes over from Texas, and brings former Notre Dame coach Charlie Weiss in to run the offense. QB John Brantley will like what Weiss will be teaching, but does the rest of the talent on hand fit? The Gators are not short of speed, and speed kills, so expect Weiss to find a way to get Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps the ball in the open field. Florida had top recruiting classes and got the nations top ranked defensive tackles in recent years, and it is now time for Shariff Floyd, Dominique Early and Ronald Powell to emerge. Jon Bostic and Jelani Jenkins are good backers, but Jeremy Brown of Orlando Boone is the only returning starter in the secondary. The Gators must get to opposing quarterbacks, or it will spell trouble. Florida is regressing a bit while other SEC teams, and Florida State, are ascending, increasing the degree of difficulty in getting back to the national stage in the short term. But, this is the Gators, who always play tough defense and may find some offense under the new staff. A win over Alabama in The Swamp early could change the mental landscape of this team and jumpstart the Orange and Blue to the SEC Championship game.

23. Missouri
Tyler Gabbert was in line to take over for his brother directing the attack Mizzou, but over spring he got beat out and left. So, James Franklin is the man, and he some top targets to work with in WR TJ Moe and TE Michael Egnew, all behind an experienced line. The Tigers are stout on defense, particularly outside up front where Jacquies Smith and Brad Madison are set to tee off on opposing signal callers. The schedule is loaded with tough road games, which will keep Mizzou from advancing much higher.

24. Arizona State
With an eye opening 20 starters returning, Coach Dennis Erickson on the hot seat and some hot new uniforms, the stage is set for Arizona State to make some national noise. The Devils are stout on the stop side, behind All America linebacker Vontaze Burfict and the return of the entire linebacking core. Erickson settled in on QB Brock Osweiler, a high prized recruit who at 6'8'' can dissect defenses behind an experienced line. For the Devils, if not now, when. The new division is soft, a trip to Oregon is a loss but opportunities with Missouri and USC coming to Tempe early give ASU a springboard opportunity.

25. Texas
Outside of a big road victory at Nebraska, 2010 was a disaster for Texas, breaking a 10 year string of 10 win seasons. Problems became apparent early, as UCLA thumped Texas bad, and OU won the Red River War the following week. UT limped to a 5-7 finish, getting pounded by K-State and losing to Robert Griffith III and Baylor. In the offseason, the ego of the Texas brass decimated the Big XII, with Nebraska and Colorado leaving as Texas negotiated their own television network with ESPN. On the field for 2011, Mack Brown welcomes a slew of new assistants, and how this change works out is anyone's guess. Garrett Gilbert did not nail down the quarterbacking job in the spring and will battle a younger McCoy, Case, in fall camp. Fozzy Whitaker does return at running back. The Horns have some talent on defense, with Kheeston Randall up front, Emmanuel Acho and Keenan Robinson at linebacker and Blake Gibson at free safety. The annual tilt with OU is buoyed by a home date with Okie State and closing the season on the road at A&M. No BCS, but 8-3 and back to a bowl looks good.

OUTSIDE LOOKING IN: Penn State, Auburn, Miami, Washington, Iowa, Clemson, USC, Houston, Central Florida, Michigan, Maryland and North Carolina.

ASCENDING: Texas A&M, Arkansas, Notre Dame, Central Florida.

DESCENDING: Miami, Iowa, Ohio State, Pittsburgh, NC State.

2011 Preseason All America Team

OFFENSE

WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
WR Alshon Jefferey, South Carolina
WR Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
TE Orson Charles, Georgia
OL Nate Potter, Boise State
OL Ryan Miller, Colorado
OL Michael Brewster, Ohio State
OL David DeCastro, Stanford
OL Kalechi Osemele, Iowa State
QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
RB LaMichael James, Oregon
RB Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina
RB Cyrus Gray, Texas A&M

DEFENSE

DE Brandon Jenkins, Florida State
DT Jared Crick, Nebraska
DT Billy Winn, Boise State
DT Courtney Upshaw, Alabama
DE Quinton Couples, North Carolina
OLB Lavonte David, Nebraksa
ILB Luke Kuechley, Boston College
ILB Donta Hightower, Alabama
ILB Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State
OLB Kenny Tate, Maryland
DB Jayron Horsley, Virginia Tech
DB Alfonzo Dennard, Nebraska
DB Mark Barron, Alabama
DB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina
DB Chase Minnifield, Virginia

K Blair Walsh, Georgia
P Drew Butler, Georgia
KR Greg Reid, Florida State
NC Isaiah Crowell , Georgia

EDITORS NOTE: Oregon CB Cliff Harris (suspension) and Oklahoma LB Travis Lewis (injury) would have been selected on the All America Team.

EDITORS NOTE: Days prior to the release of the Preseason Top 25, severe allegations have hit The University of Miami program as detailed in the following Yahoo.com report. These allegations are off the chart, taking NCAA violations to a level not seen since the days of The Pony Express at SMU.

Prior to the release of this report, Miami had been ranked at 23. Upon learning of these allegations, the forecast for Miami no longer positions them as a Top 25 team. Below is the Miami write up, prior to the public release of the allegations:

23. Miami
Randy Shannon could not survive the lack of consistency visible at UM, so enter Al Golden, a solid but somewhat surprising hire. Golden did wonders at Temple, but this is Miami. Jacory Harris will likely be back under center, but he completes plenty of passes to the other team which ain't good. A strong running game, and UM has plenty of speedy backs, would help. Travis Benjamin is a fleet of foot target receiver. Defensively, UM is stout up front behind Marucs Forston. Sean Spence is All ACC while Ray Ray Armstrong is strong at safety. It seems UM lacks quality depth, so if Harris can't keep it together, this team could stumble. A trip to face a good Maryland team is worrisome, but a huge opportunity exists with a depleted Ohio State team coming to South Florida. If Miami can get by Maryland, pull this upset and fend off Kansas State, then they could set up a strong season. Although Miami could lose five of their first six, they won't and I think they could stumble at Maryland but rise up and take out Ohio State.

Spear It Fest 2011

The Seminoles kick off what should be a very strong season on the gridiron.

Look forward to having a few tall cool ones with everyone! Go 'Noles!

Walking Down Wrong Path

As discussion of the plan to form a super committee of members of Congress to make debt recommendations, I immediately thought that if such a committee were to be formed, it should be composed of business leaders, economists and budget hawks with common sense. As I contemplated the individuals I would place on such a committee, first to my mind was former Comptroller General David Walker.

Upon leaving government in 2008, Walker has been sounding the alarm bell about the dire financial condition Uncle Sam is in, including participating in the movie IOUSA. Walker served as President of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation until late 2010, when he left to form The Comeback America Initiative. The mission of The Comeback America Initiative as stated on their website is to promote fiscal responsibility and sustainability by engaging the public and assisting key policymakers on a non-partisan basis in order to achieve solutions to America's fiscal imbalances.

I have long respected David Walker and have appreciated his efforts leading the way in attempting to wake the American people up and working to form solutions. Upon learning of Walkers Comeback America Initiative, I thought this would be a fine organization to support given Walkers history and the imminent need for financial sanity in America.

As I was investigating CAI, the list of the Board of Directors I found to be very concerning. Walker has always operated from a bipartisan platform, but two members of the CAI board I find unacceptable as they operate against the very principles of free market capitalism and sound financial efforts to, as CAI's mission statement suggests, achieve solutions to America's fiscal imbalances.

In fact, these two Gentlemen I feel actively work against such initiatives.

Andy Stern, former President of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), was at one time the most frequent visitor to President Obama in the White House. Workers of the world unite Stern, at the helm of SEIU, significantly contributed to bloating of entitlements which have put this country in a stranglehold. More troubling, on numerous occasions, Stern's SEIU operated as thugs, often violating the law. A mob of 500 SEIU thugs surrounded a Bank of America executive's home. No problem for Stern, who said "We took names. We watched how they voted. We know where they live." Glenn Beck has more:



It is time to fight the thugs, not have them serve on boards on how to fix the financial woes of our nation, woes through entitlements they push are central to the problem.

Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners, is a progressive champion of social justice and a spiritual adviser to President Obama. Wallis has described himself as a fan of Marxism and has openly called for the redistribution of wealth in society, stating this is what the gospel is all about. President Obama is making every effort to redistribute our wealth, to forgo charity and just take or steal money from those who have it and transfer it those in need under the premise of social justice. Glenn Beck has more:

Perhaps by having Stern and Wallis on the CAI board, Walker can keep his friends close and his enemies closer, but somehow I doubt that is what is happening. Although I remain supportive of David Walker, I will refrain from supporting his CAI effort as long as the board of directors is occupied by opponents of free markets and proponents of social justice, Marxism and wealth transformation. These are among the folks who are actively destroying this country from within through expansive and massive entitlements, and I am vigorous in my opposition to them.

Prime Time in the Canton Sky Line

The National Football League held its annual Hall of Fame Ceremony in Canton, Ohio last night, and among those inducted was Deion Sanders of Florida State University. It was nice to see former Seminole Defensive Coordinator Mickey Andrews in attendance. Sanders joins Fred Biletnikoff as the only Seminoles in the NFL HOF.

Without question, one of the most talented players I have ever seen, Deion was also known among those with a superior work ethic. Perhaps my favorite memory was on a rainy day up at Clemson, where prior to the world famous puntrooskie play, Deion stunned the home crowd returning a punt 76 yards for a touchdown.

Congratulations Deion! Great speech. Job well done!

Economic Catastrophe

Bahl's Blog calls for the immediate resignation of President Barack Obama and his entire economic team, who have attempted to transfer the wealth of this nation by subscribing to the Cloward and Piven theory and directing the American citizenry to economic ruin.

Free Market Capitalism, something the Obama administration is against, is the best path to prosperity. Unfortunately, we cannot wait until November 2012. Tonight, given his socialistic economic policies placing this country in great peril, President Barack Obama should immediately yield to sounder minds and step aside.

Epic Failure

The National Republican Senatorial Committee does not find the lack of shovel ready jobs entertaining, and in the following video ad, it is clear President Obama and his Progressive lemmings have their heads in the sand:



Anyone awake can seemingly conclude the Obama administration is a dismal failure at strengthening the economy and creating jobs. However, not only should you consider the unthinkable, you should come to terms with the fact that Obama has done a fantastic job.

The disconnect here is that most Americans think strengthening the economy, creating jobs and promoting liberty, prosperity and freedom is a worthy objective and one Obama aspires to achieve. For our President, it is not. Obama has stepped up to lead the parade of citizens who seek to destroy free market capitalism and America's exceptionalism.

Obama's policies seem against common sense, but the objective is to crash the system into a socialist structure with no escape. It is about the transfer of wealth, in the name of fairness for social justice. Punishing winners and rewarding losers.

In the aftermath of a very disappointing debt ceiling "crisis" conclusion, over at American Thinker, they are thinking the same way I am.. Cloward and Piven 2.0. Please follow the link to learn about a Cloward and Piven paradise, consume the thought and gather an understanding of that process. Once you understand the objective, past Obama administration decisions you thought made no sense will present you the path they are taking us.

Please see the following from ParanoidPerplexity:



As I said, given your objective is to implement the Cloward and Piven strategy, Obama is doing a fantastic job. If you value freedom, the prospect of this socialist eutopia is horrifying. In November 2012, it is liberty vs. tyranny. Run to your voting precinct, and pray you can still make a difference!