France Top Target of ISIS

France has been a target of the Islamic State as far back as the Crusades, exacerbated in recent times by the collapse of expected negotiations of territory in the aftermath of the Sykes-Picot Agreement of 1916, of which, interestingly enough, Russia, was a party. "The Islamic State is obsessed with history and honor. It carries a grudge with France over what it sees as historical injustices dating back to the 11th century" noted Tom Olago. When ISIS says they will conquer Rome, they are referring to Paris. Therefore, expect ISIS attacks on Paris to continue.

Written by Tom Olago and originally presented on Prophecy News Watch, we caught wind of the following excellent piece on this subject from over on the outstanding Black Quill & Ink blog:

By Tom Olago of Prophecy News Watch

The horror that unfolded in Paris last week, and the recent downing of a Russian airliner must have left many wondering: who will be next? Which city of ‘infidels’ and ‘crusaders’ will face the wrath of ISIS or some other terrorist group, hell-bent on shedding the blood of the innocent and leaving a long trail of destruction and pain in its wake? 

No nation wants to be next, so heightened security alerts and measures are being hurriedly put into place, reactivated or enhanced all over the world, all in the hope of preventing terror attacks altogether, or minimizing the effects of any potentially successful ones. 

Mali quickly discovered that it is almost impossible to know where the next terror attack is going to be as 21 people were killed after being taken hostage at the Radison Blu hotel by an Al Qaeda affiliate. Al Qaeda is looking to show that it is not to be forgotten in an effort to stay relevant in the ISIS onslaught. Belgium has gone on a high state of alert, which has included shutting down many parts of the city as it prepares to be next. 

Many went into a panic over the weekend when reports surfaced that the online hacker group Anonymous had discovered information regarding planned terror attacks in Paris, the United States, Indonesia, Italy and Lebanon. Anonymous has since distanced itself from the report but it shows you how quickly disinformation or misinformation can propagate on the web and social media. We should expect a lot more of these types of false reports as people find themselves on edge which is exactly what Islamic terror groups are hoping. 

One of the questions being asked is: why France? Some attacks conducted by Islamic Terrorists are clearly well planned and purposely chosen for symbolism such as the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon or the 7/7 bombings in London. Other attacks that are more "lone wolf" such as the Ft Hood shooting or the British soldier run down and beheaded in a London street in the middle of the afternoon are attacks of opportunity. 

It is impossible to know where attacks of opportunity are going to arise but symbolic attacks take much more planning and it might be useful to examine the motivating factors behind the Paris onslaught for nations to examine their own history and policies that may make them a target. 

A recent analysis by Elliot Friedland for the Clarion Project.org believes ISIS prioritizes which countries to attack, and when. He offers five top reasons that Paris, and France in general was singled out: 

1. France has been fighting the Islamic State and other Islamists, and so far has been the only European country to join the air strikes with the U.S; 

2. France has specifically named the Islamist ideology as the problem. They have stated that they are at war with radical Islam and have taken steps against other extremist groups; 

3. France is standing up for its values and seeking to integrate Muslims. ISIS finds this unacceptable. The model proposed by Prime Minister Manuel Valls explicitly stated: “We seek to establish a model of Islam that is fully integrated, fully compatible with the values of the Republic.” 

4. Paris represents the enlightenment values of Western civilization. ISIS derides Paris as “the capital of prostitution and vice, the lead carrier of the cross in Europe - Paris.” 

5. The Islamic State is obsessed with history and honor. It carries a grudge with France over what it sees as historical injustices dating back to the 11th century, and now seeks to re-assert itself over Europe whilst taking the form the revived Muslim Caliphate. 

None of the above are reasons that would resonate with civilized modern society, yet as usually happens, such attacks still tend to motivate other potential terrorists to launch their own offensives. They thrive on riding the publicity waves as far as possible, while media interest and social focus on terror is still at its highest. 

Ryan Mauro of ClarionProject.org suggests that there are several ISIS threats that now loom large: 

1. “Copycat" attacks by the Islamic State and other Islamist terrorist supporters, including those who are loyal to Al-Qaeda, who want to show that the group hasn't become a ‘has-been’ in the jihadist world - such as Mali. 

2. There are those who will worry that they might now lose their chance to strike and earn their ticket to Paradise by dying in jihad as a "martyr." Supporters of the Islamic State have every reason to expect Western governments to become extra aggressive in rounding up possible terrorists. ISIS supporters who believe they are on the authorities' radar could choose to act sooner instead of patiently preparing their plot and risk being foiled, as suggested by the terror alert in Belgium. 

Mauro believes that the recent attacks will earn ISIS a wave of recruits and encourage the millions of Islamic State supporters who have yet to take up arms finally to act upon their beliefs. The West will need to push back and counteract the ISIS propaganda scores, by persistently reminding ISIS and the world of the group’s failures, mistakes and acts of terror, all carried out in the name of Islam. 

In a recent analysis published in Christian Headlines.com, Ayman S. Ibrahim states four ways that ISIS bases its acts of violence on religion, and why it matters: 

1. ISIS based its actions on a literal reading of the Qur'an. It views itself as truly Islamic and claims its actions are supported by the Qur'an. 

2. For ISIS followers, France is at war with Islam. The ISIS-issued statement that accepted responsibility for the attacks portrays France (and its allies) as Crusaders, literally “the holders of the Cross,” portraying the war in purely religious terms. 

3. The attacks were meant to imitate seventh-century raids led by the Prophet Muhammad. The statement identified the Paris attacks using the Arabic term “ghazwa”, meaning ‘battle’. This term is said to have been primarily used in the biography of Muhammad, in reference to his raids and expeditions against the non-Muslims in the Arabian Peninsula in the seventh century. 

4. The terrorists viewed themselves as martyrs for Islam. They died, the statement said, to support the cause of the true religion and in fulfillment of the charges of the Prophet Muhammad to humiliate enemies, rubbing “their noses in the dusty ground.” 

Ayman concludes that to claim that all Muslims are terrorists is far from correct, but to deny or underestimate the significant power and influence of some Islamic texts and specific interpretations of them is not prudent, either.

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.      Clemson, 12-0, 1
2.      Alabama, 11-1, 2
3.      Iowa, 12-0, 4
4.      Oklahoma, 11-1, 6
5.      Michigan State, 11-1, 5
6.      Ohio State, 11-1, 8
7.      North Carolina, 11-1, 9
8.      Stanford, 10-2, 14
9.      Notre Dame, 10-2. 3
10.    Florida State, 10-2, 12
11.    Texas Christian, 10-2, 13
12.    Baylor, 9-2, 7
13.    Oklahoma State, 10-2, 10
14.    Florida, 10-2, 11
15.    Oregon, 9-3, 16
16.    Ole Miss, 9-3, 17
17.    Northwestern, 10-2, 18
18.    Michigan, 9-3, 15
19.    Louisiana State, 8-3, 23
20.    Houston, 11-1, 25
21.    Southern Cal, 8-4, NR
22.    Temple, 10-2, NR
23.    Wisconsin, 9-3, NR
24.    Utah, 9-3, NR
25.    Texas A&M, 8-4, NR

OUT: Navy (19), Washington State (20), Mississippi State (21), UCLA (22) and Pittsburgh (24).

VOTES: Mississippi State, Arkansas, Navy, Memphis, UCLA, Miami, California, Toledo, Brigham Young, South Florida, Pittsburgh, Tennessee, Washington, Washington State, Arizona State, Marshall, Auburn, West Virginia, Louisville and Southern Miss.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS:

Iowa came into to Lincoln to play the Huskers after a short week hoping to capture an undefeatd regular season in advance to the Hawkeyes appearance in the B1G championship game, while Nebraska was getting healthy off a by week.  It was the perfect setting for the Big Red to make a bold statement, winning their second game this month over a top ten team and secure a spot in a bowl game. Would Nebraska quarterback Tommy Armstrong play well, using his legs, firing timely and effective throws and protecting the ball, or would we see the other Tommy Armstrong, the one with the affection of throwing the ball to the other team?  It would be the latter.  Despite the Huskers much maligned but improving defense holding Iowa to only 250 yards, and 0-9 on third down, the Big Red could not overcome 4 interceptions by Armstrong, including a disastrous pick six.  As horrible as Armstrong was, the play calling, as usual, left a lot to be desired.  It should be noted Armstrong threw 45 passes. It seems the staff seeks balance of the run and pass, no matter the result.  All us fans are seeking results, as in first downs and touchdowns, so a disconnect is appearing.  I recall Bill Callahan, in his presser following the Huskers defeating Ball State 41-40 in 2007 in a near foundation shaking loss, gleeful as he described the pass numbers obtained by quarterback Sam Keller. Other than escaping with the win, I found nothing with relation to Nebraska football to be gleeful about on the eye opening afternoon, and became instantly aware Coach Callahan and I saw things differently with respect to the definition of success offensively.  I am concerned Coach Riley may be on the same path. Nebraska gained 433 yards, but again, did not seem to be able to run when they had to versus having some success running when they wanted to.  This discrepancy does not work at Nebraska. The line is improved from earlier in the year, but I question what is going on up front and we better see some measurable improvement in 2016.  The receivers were open, but Armstrong could not find them, and it appeared that while under duress on many occasions he did not want to run it. OC Danny Langsdorf was a liability, and did not appear interested in shifting the though process given the game situations. Defensively, the Huskers played well enough to win. The defensive line played tough and was disruptive, while the linebackers were solid.  The secondary was good, most notably CB Joshua Kalu and S Byerson Cockrell. Nebraska leveled several big hits on Iowa, including one which got S Nate Gerry tossed from the game.  These targeting penalties are out of control. This was a game Nebraska could have, and should have, won.  Credit Iowa, who as appreciated, does what they do.  But, simply, it would be difficult for just about any team to lose the turnover war 4-1 in freezing temps and come away with a win. Nebraska could not overcome it, and lost. It appears there are not enough winning teams to fill open bowl spots, so odds favor Nebraska can get one. Normally, I would say if you do not have a winning record, you should stay home. But, with the spots open, this team desperately needs the extra practice time.  It should be noted the team is very young and should be quite better in 2016. Sadly; however, it has become clear that someone other than Armstrong should be quarterbacking. Armstrong is one heck of an athlete, but his inability to protect the football, a lingering issue from a year ago, has seen zero improvement over this year with new coaching. As I have mentioned before, Zach Darlington led his high school team to the state of Florida championship in the states largest class, so he cannot be so lacking in talent he can find the field. AJ Blue should also get a look, but all eyes are on Patrick O'Brien, who comes in early and should be given every opportunity to win the job. I don't think Riley, and particularly Langsdorf, have time on their side to make additional missteps.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS:

It was an interesting period heading into the Seminoles visit to The Swamp to face bitter arch-rival Florida. The Gators, who have had a great season winning the SEC East against high odds, have excited the Gator Nation, although in recent weeks the offense had bogged down considerably, with the Gators dodging disaster with very narrow wins over Vanderbilt, South Carolina and Florida Atlantic.  Florida State was dealing with swirling rumors of the impending firing of LSU coach Les Miles and Tigers hiring of coach Jimbo Fisher away from the Seminoles.  It appears overtures were made, but Fisher would stay put, and LSU, facing national scrutiny for the handling of the entire saga announced Miles will be retained.  For FSU on the field, the Seminoles offense had struggled on the road, and faced a top ten defensive unit in the Gators.  FSU had never previously won three consecutive trips to Gainesville.  Florida has an elite defense at every level, so yards were going to be tough.  FSU got an early field goal to take an early 3-0 lead.  Sean Maguire flung a side armed pass through traffic back across the field to hit tight end Jeremy Kerr for a touchdown.  Kerr is normally utilized for blocking, but as the play broke down, he found himself the recipient of gold!  It was his first ever catch, and it was a big one!  FSU led 10-0.  The Gators could get little going against the stellar Seminole defense.  When Florida did find success, either the 'Noles rose up or the Gators self destructed. The Gators had a fourth down in the red zone, but a poor snap doomed their fourth down attempt.  Drwin James had several big plays and DE Demarcus Walker was a bear, with signature back to back plays late in collecting a sack and then blocking a Gator field goal attempt. Florida could do nothing measurable against the stellar Seminole sop troops. Meanwhile, the Seminoles kept pounding away, and began to find seams in the Gator D.  Kermit Whitfield and Travis Rudolph had catches, and this opened up lanes for Dalvin Cook. Gator DE CeCe Richardson hit Maguire as he was about to throw, but it was a fumbled Maguire managed to recover in the end zone, resulting in a safety, making the score 13-2.  Has Florida fallen on the ball, it had a chance for some momentum in what would have been a one score game, but no. FSU then pounded away, getting another touchdown from Dalvin Cook and then scored again late on another Cook run for a 27-2 victory.  Cook finished with 186 yards rushing, and it is worth noting stellar play from K Roberto Aguayo and P Cason Beatty really helped the Seminoles.  FSU has now won 5 of the last six against Florida, and 3 in a row.  Jumbo Fisher is 11-1 against in state rivals Florida and Miami, which is HUGE!   FSU is 10-2 and will await a decent bowl game. Most importantly, this "rebuilding" season will set up the 2016 team, which has an abundance of returning letterman from this team, to shoot for big things.  If you wanted to beat FSU, you may have missed that opportunity.  It is noted this senior class went 48-5, the most wins for a class in the magnificent history of Florida State football. Congratulations, and Thank You all!

A Real Turkey

Michael Ramirez/Investors Business Daily

Given the subtle references, this is perhaps the most impressive work by Investors Business Daily brilliant editorial cartoonist Michael Ramirez in many a moon.

Obama is in fact a turkey, in more ways than one.

Obama has great affection for Turkey and their Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. As we have previously reported, our commander in chief is an individual who seeks the degrading and transformation of America to a bit player, defines the USA as a country that must pay for its perceived sins as an oppressor and an individual seeking to advance the caliphate, where a Muslim country regains power similar to the days of the old Ottoman Empire. In short, it is reasonable to conclude, by his actions, our president is playing for the other team. And on this team is in PM. Erdoğan.  Neither individual is the least bit concerned about the activities of ISIS, who they see as offer a necessary function in cleansing the territory from infidels.

Obama is an enemy within, hiding in plain sight, with America unable to see the forest from within the trees.

In Sept of 2014, we noted Obama was enabling enemies of state, arming terrorist organizations and helping to create the chaos necessary to fuel the flames of insurgency, all of which escalates the power Iran yields in the middle east. Obama is not delusional. His actions, assisting Iran in forming the caliphate, with ISIS free to do the necessary cleansing, are intentional and orchestrated.

A real Turkey indeed.

Directing The Masses

Donald J. Trump

It is really astonishing if you think about it with any level of curiosity.

As outlined by GOP front runner Donald Trump, with all the terrorism acts being committed around the globe, the despicable and barbaric acts being engaged upon by Planned Parenthood and the corrupt actions and blatant disregard for the law being exhibited by the Obama administration and complicit members of Congress from both sides, the media feels compelled to scold Trump on his tone.

Can you imagine?

On the surface, you might conclude the news media is so stupid they would not know a story of legitimate impact on the citizenry if it took place in the lobby of their corporate office building.  But no, nobody is that idiotic.

The mainstream news media is in full command of the facts. The stories they provide and the issues they cover are all part of an agenda to lead the American people in a direction they, in the arrogance of their intellectual elitism, determines is best determined to serve the ruling class.

Fans of dystopian writers George Orwell and Aldous Huxley often engage in debate who was more correct. Orwell considered the government would conceal information from the citizenry, and engage in rewriting the history the public was able to consume. Huxley imagined a world where the citizenry would be bombarded with voluminous information that would allow such consumption which would result in the citizenry being drunk on a sea of irrelevance.

George Orwell and Aldous Huxley
photo/OpenCulture.com

Both are accurate.

Truthful information is being concealed (gun running in Benghazi), and rewritten (see unemployment rate) as Orwell imagined and the country is ever increasingly engulfed by guilty pleasures (UFC fighting) and issues and individuals of non importance (the Kardashians) as Huxley forecasted.

Meanwhile, the freedoms we hold dear are being methodically taken from us though the orchestration of evil organizations, elected officials and social justice engineers of the ruling class.  And of course, the mainstream media.

Orchestrated Invasion Part of the Plan

MUST LISTEN!

Back in late June, Brigitte Gabriel, founder of Act for America who has been fighting radical Islam's attempts to infiltrate and take over the west for years, spoke at the Family Research Council's Watchmen on the Wall event. In this video, she briefly outlines the Muslim Brotherhood's plan for the destruction of Western civilization, which is inexplicably being assisted from within.



ACT for America president and founder Brigitte Gabriel, speaks at the Family Research Council's Watchmen on the Wall event about the threat of radical Islam. In this clip she outlines the Muslim Brotherhood's plan for the destruction of Western civilization. The Muslim Brotherhood has spawned dozens and dozens of organizations across the globe, including the terrorist organizations al Qaeda, Hamas, and numerous Muslim organizations in America. Full version of speech linked HERE

The Clarion Project, home of Dr Zudhi Jasser, has posted on their site "The Muslim Brotherhood's Strategic Plan For America" with some analysis. The Muslim Brotherhood organizational chart available HERE.

We are being invaded.  Read the document, which describes a grand jihad to destroy America from within.

The Ticket

Sen Ted Cruz and Lt. Colonel. Allen West

Works for me!

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.     Clemson, 11-0, 1
2.     Alabama, 10-1, 3
3.     Notre Dame, 10-1, 4
4.     Iowa, 11-0, 6
5.     Michigan State, 10-1, 11
6.     Oklahoma, 10-1, 6
7.     Baylor, 9-1, 8
8.     Ohio State, 10-1, 2
9.     North Carolina, 10-1, 10
10.   Oklahoma State, 10-1, 4
11.   Florida, 10-1, 9
12.   Florida State, 9-2, 13
13.   Texas Christian, 9-2, 12
14.   Stanford, 9-2, 14
15.   Michigan, 9-2, 16
16.   Oregon, 8-3, 17
17.   Ole Miss, 8-3, 25
18.   Northwestern, 9-2, 24
19.   Navy, 9-1, 22
20.   Washington State, 8-3, 23
21.   Mississippi State, 8-3, NR
22.   UCLA, 8-3, NR
23.   Louisiana State, 7-3, 19
24.   Pittsburgh, 8-3, NR
25.   Houston, 10-1, 15

OUT:  Wisconsin (18), Southern Cal (20) and Utah (21)

VOTES:  Southern Cal, Wisconsin, Utah, Temple, Toledo, Memphis, South Florida, Miami, NC State, Brigham Young, Arizona State, Auburn, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Georgia and Tennessee.

NOTES: It was a day where the little guys almost shock the south. Florida Atlantic went to The Swamp and took the struggling Florida Gators to overtime before losing 20-14.  Georgia Southern went between The Hedges and took the Georgia Bulldogs to overtime before falling 23-17. South Carolina, was not so fortunate, as The Citadel took down the Gamecocks in Columbia 23-22. Another note was the scoreboard shock we saw on a sleepy Friday evening, as at the half, South Florida was punishing Cincinnati 51-3.  That is not a misprint.  The Bearcats are a decent team, who owns a victory over the Miami Hurricanes, but on this night, they got boat raced something bad awful. USF, who awaits lowly UCF Thanksgiving night, won 65-24.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

FSU back Dalvin Cook
photo/Glenn Bell/USA Today

Tennessee Chattanooga is another little guy, a playoff team from the lower division, who came to Tallahassee ready to compete if not win at the home of the Seminoles, who were sporting all black uniforms on senior day and the last home game of the season. The Seminoles continued their pattern of sluggish home day game starts, with Kermit Whitfield fumbling the opening kickoff.  Some nifty play calling, coupled with a trick play and a penalty, FSU was down 3-0. Dalvin Cook got off to a slow start but started getting loose once Maguire was able to connect on a few passes. Among the recipients of those throws was Whitfield, who hauled in two touchdowns bracketing the half. Although the offense got in gear, Maguire was being harassed and was hit hard a handful of times, which was discouraging.  Dalvin Cook continued to perform like the complete, elite back that he is, and Jacques Patrick is coming on as a counterpart to Cook that can be trusted. Not only did Everett Golson get in, but so did JJ Cosentino, both of whom looked confident and effective. Defensively, the Seminoles are on the verge of being stellar.  The unit is comprised of elite speed, with a dominating front and a fleet of foot linebacking core.  However, it is the deep and talented secondary that headlines the unit.  Nate Andrews, who has not been 100% for some time, had a great game, as did S Derwin James, the true freshman who may get All America consideration.  Jalen Ramsey also had some plays, as did LaMarcus Brutus. There were quite a few young players who got an opportunity to get meaningful snaps at DOAK, and they looked very impressive. The future is very, very, bright. The Seminoles, 9-2 and hovering just outside the top ten, travel to hog town to play the struggling, at least offensively, Florida Gators.  Florida has looked just awful in recent weeks, but the Seminoles should well know to expect the very best the Gators have to offer.  The Swamp is a most difficult place to play, but if FSU can win the turnover war, and keep their poise, a victory can be achieved. The Seminoles did have an injury in the game, as linebacker Roderick Hoskins of Orlando Evans hobbled off and was later seen with a knee brace.  Hoskins is a quality player, and if he is unable to play, that would not be good.

Voluntary Invasion

Mark Steyn

The Barbarians Are Inside, And There Are No Gates

Mark Steyn has it right. The gates have been intentionally opened and the barbaric terrorists are here, let in by acts of treason by our elected officials.

Europe has been voluntarily invaded, and an invasion of the United States is underway, under full consent of our president, Barack Obama.

As Steyn notes, "screw the candlelight vigil", it is time to go eliminate the enemy, political correctness be damned. However, under Obama, it will not happen, as those we view as evil terrorists he considers oppressed freedom fighters, which gives indication to whose side he is on in the war on terror.

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.     Clemson, 10-0, 1
2.     Ohio State, 10-0, 2
3.     Alabama, 9-1, 6
4.     Notre Dame, 9-1, 4
5.     Oklahoma State, 10-0, 4
6.     Iowa, 10-0, 9
7.     Oklahoma, 9-1, 12
8.     Baylor, 8-1, 3
9.     Florida, 9-1, 10
10.   North Carolina, 9-1, 14
11.   Michigan State, 9-1, 15
12.   Texas Christian, 9-1, 11
13.   Florida State, 8-2, 16
14.   Stanford, 8-2, 8
15.   Houston, 10-0, 17
16.   Michigan, 8-2, 18
17.   Oregon, 7-3, 25
18.   Wisconsin, 8-2, 21
19.   Louisiana State, 7-2, 7
20.   Southern Cal, 7-3, 24
21.   Utah, 8-2, 13
22.   Navy, 8-1, 23
23.   Washington State, 7-3, NR
24.   Northwestern, 8-2, 22
25.   Ole Miss, 7-3, NR

OUT:  Mississippi State (18) and UCLA (19)

VOTES:  Mississippi State, Arkansas, Georgia, Pittsburgh, UCLA, Texas A&M, Memphis and Louisville.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

Everett Golson got the start at quarterback, and right out of the gate it did not go well.  On the first play, Golson tried to pull back a pass and fumbled the ball away inside the Seminole red zone. It should be noted N. C. State is a talented team and not one to play around with. Thankfully, the FSU defense was not about to be pushed around, so the first miscue by Golson only resulted in a Wolfpack field goal. Golson, who had done a very good job this season in protecting the football, was not finished. Golson tossed a couple of picks, and before the first quarter ended, FSU found themselves in a 17-7 hole. The Wolfpack is talented up front on defense, and they brought gap fillers left and right, baiting Golson to beat them with throws, which Golson appeared unable to do.  I think Golson got the start with the thought of him using his legs to pause the Wolfpack pass rush, but for whatever reason, this did not occur. As a result, Dalvin Cook was finding yardage tough, although plays around the end were not dialed up. Appropriately, Golson was pulled for Sean Maguire. Almost instantly, the offense picked up. Maguire made some mid range throws that forced the Wolfpack defense to back away from the line of scrimmage, which then allowed Dalvin Cook to get loose.  For those learning coaching, this would be some great film to look at. With Maguire, receivers who were not effective, starting making catches.  So, FSU got the offense on track and ran away from the pesky Pack 34-17.  Defensively, the Seminoles are really getting stout.  Playmakers at every level are making things happen, and exhibiting quality depth. While five star recruits DE Josh Sweat and S Derwin James showcasing themselves as emerging superstars, you have to give it up for senior safety Javien Elliott, a former walk on who is making a big contribution on the stop troops. Several former FSU stars were at the game, including Derrick Brooks and Charlie Ward.  Bobby Bowden was also there, honored as the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year anniversary winner.  Additionally, Warrick Dunn was on hand as Dalvin Cook broke his single season rushing record. Dunn spoke at the Sod Talk pregame. FSU will get healthy against Chattanooga before traveling to Gainseville to play the Gators. FSU is 8-2.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

Nebraska has not won back to back games in 378 days, and traveled across the country to play at Rutgers. Although it is hard to imagine, this was huge game for the Big Red.  The 'Huskers needed to capitalize off the big home win over #7 Michigan State last week, and keep themselves open for a bowl game invite.  Man, has the bar fallen in the capital city.  Anyhow, the 'Skers came ready, and opened the scoring with Cethan Carter getting loose and running for a 37 yard touchdown.  Everything was clicking on offense, with Tommy Armstrong hitting Jordan Westerkamp and Imani Cross running tough.  The 'Huskers led early 21-0.  Then, with Armstrong having a great game, he began to do what he does far to frequently; throw the ball to the other team.  Armstrong proceeded to toss three interceptions, which would have really hurt Nebraska had they not had a 21 point lead and the opponent was a stronger team than the Scarlet Knights.  Rutgers pulled to 21-14, but you never felt as though Nebraska was not in complete control.  The Big Red defense played a real good game.  Nate Gerry looked like his old self, there was a pass rush, and Vincent Valentine and Greg McMullen left their home on the side of milk cartons to be disruptive forces on the line along side Maliek Collins.  Nebraska has shown they are a decent team that can play with most anyone provided they do not kill themselves with turnovers, penalties and execution errors. The Big Red will take a much needed bye week, and then welcome Iowa, ranked #5 at this writing, into Lincoln for a big one. Nebraska will need it secure a bowl game, which by itself should be all that needs to be stated. Iowa is a strong running team, but if Nebraska has had an area of success in 2015, it is stopping the run. Winning this game will be a real springboard for 2016, and with most of the current team returning, should be a double digit win campaign at worst.

Trimming The Bushes

The Bush family has a long legacy in politics in this nation.

Prescott Bush was a Senator from Connecticut, which heavily influenced his son, George Herbert Walker Bush, who became the 41st President of the United States after serving eight years as Vice President under President Ronald Reagan and had perhaps the most distinguished career of any modern day politician.

George H. W. Bush's son, Jeb Bush, currently running for the GOP nomination for president in 2016, was a very successful two term governor of the state of Florida.  Of course, another son, George W. Bush, after a successful two terms as governor of the state of Texas, became the 43rd President of the United States.

Overall, while many disagree with differing policies of the each of the Bush's during their tenures of governance, generally speaking most citizens have a favorable opinion of each of the men and their family.  I fit in that category.

As a Floridian, I though Jeb Bush performed very well as governor of my state. I have overall favorable of the presidencies of both 41 and 43, while I would not consider either among the top presidents in our history.  I am not supporting Jeb in 2016 for the GOP nomination.

The Bush family usually stays above the fray of political for the most part.  George W. Bush has had not one word of criticism of Barack Obama, who seemingly weekly blamed W for every problem he encountered.

But, sadly, over time, the Bush family has felt compelled to bash other republicans.  Former First Lady Barbara Bush had spoke strongly of her distaste for Sarah Palin.  Jeb Bush discussed how the GOP should move away from the policies of Ronald Reagan.

Unlike many, while we had areas of disagreement, we have always held George W. Bush in high regard.

Therefore, from a man of decency who has declined to comment on a president leading our nation to destruction, we were puzzled on his unprompted voiced negativity regarding Sen. Ted Cruz. Glenn Beck has a theory on this, on which we place a high degree of accuracy. On the issue in question, we strongly side with Sen. Cruz, and expansion into the area of question reveals some troubling avenues of concern, inclusive of immigration.

Although I did not really recognize it at the time, both Bush presidents can be classified as progressive, where the idea of government expansion in the lives of the citizenry, something Reagan acted against, is welcomed.  In fact, given the families close relationship with Bill and Hillary Clinton, it would appear they have little problem with the US traveling the same track, just think they can do a btter jog of maneuvering the levers.

It appears, given where Jeb currently stands in the race for the 2016 GOP nomination, the progressive blueprint the Bush family has embraced to political success has been discovered by GOP primary voters and appears to be being soundly discarded.

At least we can recognize that the Bush family are good people, as evidenced by the actions of George W. Bush just today, who on this Veterans Day, visited a group of veterans who were visiting his presidential library in Dallas.


God Bless all our Veterans! We all greatly appreciate your service and sacrifice!

All They Know

An excellent piece over at the tremendous website Zero Hedge provides detailed analysis as to why millennials are supporting Bernie Sanders & Donald Trump.

The ramifications of the progressive march over the past decade, with orchestrated efforts to discredit churches, private companies, agencies and organizations while creating divisions between classes through race, gender and economic status, has resulted in the Millennials embracing of big government rather than free market capitalism.

Therefore, sadly, the position taken by the Millennials would certainly be considered reasonable. It is all they know.

Tigers Declawed

In the face of a majority of the Missouri football team threatening to boycott a neutral site game in Kansas City's Arrowhead stadium on Saturday night vs. BYU, demands were met with the resignation of University of Missouri president Tim Wolfe.

A favorite tactic of the left, this amounts to extortion. Mizzou, just a few years removed from being championed as a bastion of diversity having an openly gay player in LB Michael Sam, is now too racist to bear, claim the top protesters.

Please read the incidents involved, which we deem very weak as they currently are reported to substantiate the level of civil rights strife the protesters claim inflict the university.

Among the list of demands, as reported by the Independent Sentinel, was that President Wolfe must write an handwritten apology “acknowledging his white male privilege” and “recognize that systems of oppression exist.”  They also want more social justice centers, more black staff to be hired by quota, more money for black causes, and the demands of the 1969 Black Collegians met. The Black Collegians are leftist advocates.

With the group referencing the admission of white privilege, we can confirm their relationship to other similar movements seeking the same results utilizing differing avenues of approach. White privilege has been code language for the social justice movement, which includes Black Lives Matter. This highly financed group is part of the agenda created to discredit churches, companies, agencies and organizations while creating divisions between classes through race, gender and economic status. BLM is really no different than Occupy Wall Street, just using another mechanism.

In addition, although this has not become present as of yet, admissions by churches, companies, agencies and organizations and/or leaders of such agencies and institutions open a door to significant legal ramifications, not just to those centrally involved, but to all citizens and taxpayers.

“Black Lives Matter hates the American system of government, i.e., the Constitution and capitalism,” says Rev. Jesse Lee Patterson, founder and president of the civil-rights organization BOND. Patterson says the movement associates the U.S. with “whiteness,” and, therefore, despises the very government that appears to be endorsing it.

This appears an attack on the institution, an effort to advance a social justice agenda under the limited if not false premise of racism. A very concerning precedent has now been formed, and similar instances seem likely to follow.

Quotations among those supporting the group at Mizzou claim the nation does not understand the racism and level of tension dealt with on a daily basis in the state of Missouri.

Funny, the nation did not witness any such activity in Kansas City last week, where 800k citizens, of all races, gender, creed, hairstyle, musical interests and favorite superhero came together to celebrate the Kansas City Royals World Series win.

Is the struggle real in Missouri, or is this just another orchestrated event to further divide our nation while making effort to advance progressive tenants of social justice?

Our answer is evident with what just happened in Kansas City.

On Saturday night, we will certainly be cheering for BYU! Go Cougs!

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.     Clemson, 9-0, 2
2.     Ohio State, 9-0, 1
3.     Baylor, 8-0, 3
4.     Oklahoma State, 9-0, 12
5.     Notre Dame, 8-1, 7
6.     Alabama, 8-1. 8
7.     Louisiana State, 7-1, 5
8.     Stanford, 8-1, 10
9.     Iowa, 9-0, 11
10.   Florida, 8-1, 9
11.   Texas Christian, 8-1, 4
12.   Oklahoma, 8-1, 13
13.   Utah, 8-1, 14
14.   North Carolina, 8-1, 20
15.   Michigan State, 8-1, 6
16.   Florida State, 7-2, 15
17.   Houston, 9-0, 17
18.   Michigan, 7-2, 18
19.   Mississippi State, 7-2, 23
20.   UCLA, 7-2, 24
21.   Wisconsin, 8-2, NR
22.   Northwestern, 7-2, NR
23.   Navy, 7-1, NR
24.   Southern Cal, 6-3, NR
25.   Oregon, 6-3, NR

OUT:  Memphis (16), Toledo, (19), Ole Miss (21), Temple (22) and Texas A&M (25)

VOTES:  Memphis, Temple, Arkansas, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Washington State, Toledo, Brigham Young, California, Auburn, Georgia, Miami, North Carolina State and Pittsburgh.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

Deshaun Watson eludes Terrance Smith
Photo/NBCSports.com

Florida State traveled to Death Valley in Clemson SC to take on the highly ranked Tigers, and although it looked good for much of the game, the Seminoles fell to the powerful Tigers 23-13 after a late touchdown put the game away for Clemson. Florida State came in ready to play, with Dalvin Cook breaking loose for a 75 yard touchdown run on FSU's second play from scrimmage. Cook would finish with 194 yards rushing on 21 carries. FSU, leading 7-0, went down into the Tiger red zone on the next possession, thanks to another breakaway run by Cook, but quarterback Sean Maguire, making only his second start, threw an ill advised pass that was intercepted. The missed opportunity would end up being significant, and it highlights the lack of success this season the Seminoles have had in the red zone. Offensively, there were some nice catches, but the receiving core is not where it needs to be at this time. I was disappointed the coaches did not utilize Cook more often out of the backfield with screens, giving him an opportunity to break long gains in space. Up front, the line I thought did a fine job, as Clemson has a dominant from seven. Up front, the Seminoles did a decent job. Clemson DE Shaq Lawson had his moments, but the unit gave FSU a chance for balance and the chance to win. However, there was a period in the third quarter where the unit lost concentration and was hit with a series of dead ball procedure penalties. In a game like this, those execution failures are magnified exponentially. On the stop side, there is no doubt the Seminoles defensive unit performed very well. Clemson is considered a high powered offensive unit, with good reason, and for most of the evening they were held in check. The 'Noles were stout in the interior, with each of the tackles having heir moments. This group is young and will be a force moving forward, although upper classmen Niles Lawrence-Stample and Giorgio Newberry will be missed. Clemson did a lot of misdirection, and worked a lot of short passes to spread out the defense. Tiger quarterback Deshaun Watson is an emerging star. Watson made quite a few plays, some timely ones with his legs, and showed to poise for a sophomore. Derwin James, Marquez White, LaMarcus Brutus and Jalen Ramsey played well, and having Terrance Smith back helped.  But the Tigers were resilient. Clemson did mount a touchdown with freshman sensation Deon Cain hauling in a touchdown grab. The Tigers got a late run, catching some defenders out of position, to gain the final score of 23-13. Clemson is a top flite football team, one certainly capable of winning the national championship. There is elite talent on each level both offensively and defensively. The young Seminoles, for a young team with an inexperienced quarterback and youthful receivers and offensive lineman, comported themselves quite well on the road against the #1 team in the nation. Good on Clemson.  FSU is a very young team, and this may be the last time FSU loses (the game in a couple of weeks at Florida will be a tough one to be sure) for quite some time. As Bud Elliot of Tomahawk Nation appropriately noted, "I've covered Florida State wins and losses, and I've never seen Jimbo Fisher so proud of his team after a loss. That speaks to the knowledge that Clemson had a clearly superior team, and that Fisher's team is extremely young. He knows the future is bright". Indeed it is.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

Alex Gordon
Kansas City Royal OF
Former 'Husker All America OF
Photo/Huskers.com

Led in part by the stellar play of outfielder Alex Gordon, a former University of Nebraska All America baseball player, the Kansas City Royals won the 2015 World Series. A 432ft home run by Gordon was the pivotal play helping the Royals win game one. With the recent struggles of the Cornhusker football team, which appeared to consist of issues within the locker room, it became apparent the Nebraska football could learn quite a bit from the world champion Royals. Kansas City is a team which does all the little things, is principled in their beliefs with the players believing in each other and holding each other accountable. Accountability and teammate support seemed missing, particularly in the game last week at Purdue, which was a humiliating a loss as Nebraska has suffered in decades of moons. Seventh ranked Michigan State came to Lincoln with a chance to become a playoff team with veteran signal caller Conner Cook, who must have been chomping at the bit to fire passes against the 'Huskers woeful secondary.  But, while perception if often reality, for those in the know Nebraska is a better team than their record, and play, would indicate. It is simply a matter of execution, and team that takes on the characteristics present with the Royals. Nebraska put it to Michigan State early, and had a chance to blow the game open. But Sparty is worthy of a champion, and Michigan State would come back to take a halftime lead.  It would have been an appropriate time for the 'Huskers to fold, particularly if players veered toward individualism rather than the adoption of those Royal characteristics. Not so fast my friend. Nebraska played well across the board. Quarterback Tommie Armstrong almost gave the game away, with two very poor interceptions in the red zone tossed. But with Armstrong, most often the bad is far outweighed by the good.  And on this night, a night with visible team enthusiasm, Armstrong was hero. Complimenting the passing efforts of Armstrong was a strong running game, a combined effort of Imani Cross, Terrell Newby and Andy Jankovich, along with Armstrong on some quarterback runs.  The line, playing against some real fine players, perhaps had their best performance of the season, complete with Armstrong recognizing the time clicking on each play. As Armstrong said,"They got pushes. They had a sense of urgency and they had a different attitude."The receivers, led by Jordan Westerkamp and Alonzo Moore, were stellar. Westerkamp got crushed several times, but kept up his high level of play. Down by two scores late, Armstrong directed a brilliant Husker comeback.  After posting a touchdown, Michigan State failed to record a first down and punted, downing the ball at the Nebraska 9.  It what seemed impossible, Armstrong fired twice to Jordan Westerkamp, for gains of 28 and 33 yards.  Then, Armstrong hit Brandon Reilly for a 30 yard score. Sparty had a chance afterward, but Nebraska stood tall and for only the second time in 40 years, an unranked 'Husker team beat a top ten team.  In addition, it was the first win over a top ten team since Nebraska beat top ranked Oklahoma in 2001.  This was a HUGE victory for Mike Riley and this team. They have taken a two by four to the forehead more than any team, and it took some intestinal fortitude to come out and battle this strong Spartan squad for 60 minutes. Perhaps these 'Huskers did steal a page from the Royals playbook, one which has the team working individually in support of one another. It was a total team effort at Memorial Stadium.  Nebraska is not a 4-6 team, and showed that to Sparty and the nation.  While the effort, and the win is sure something to celebrate, and we all did, the more important thing is to build upon this, and collect wins (inclusive of a bowl game for which at least more win is necessary) to set the stage for a run at the Big Ten Championship in 2016.  #GBR

Nebraska WR Jordan Westerkamp
Photo/Huskers.com

Crowned!

Kansas City Royals Take The World!

The Kansas City Royals defeated the New York Mets at Citi Field in Flushing last night 7-2, rallying once again from a deficit to win the 2015 World Series.

It was the Royals first World Series title since 1985, and their second in the franchise history.

It was a great season for the Royals, and each series win by the Royals on the way to winning the World Series exemplified what the organization represents. C Salvador Perez was named MVP of the series, well deserved by most accounts, although other choices held merit.

As Dirk Chatelain of the Omaha World Herald so eloquently noted, "The Royals rode nobody. It’s as close to a TEAM championship as you will ever see. Ever. Kansas City mastered old-school baseball, putting the ball in play, running the bases with reckless abandon, forcing opposing defenses to perform".

All season, it was #TakeTheCrown!  Consider it #Crowned.

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.     Ohio State, 8-0, 1
2.     Clemson, 8-0, 2
3.     Baylor, 7-0, 3
4.     Texas Christian, 8-0, 4
5.     Louisiana State, 7-0, 5
6.     Michigan State, 8-0, 6
7.     Notre Dame, 7-1, 7
8.     Alabama, 7-1, 8
9.     Florida, 7-1, 10
10.   Stanford, 7-1, 9
11.   Iowa, 8-0, 11
12.   Oklahoma State, 8-0, 12
13.   Oklahoma, 7-1, 13
14.   Utah, 7-1, 14
15.   Florida State, 7-1, 16
16.   Memphis, 8-0, 15
17.   Houston, 8-0, 17
18.   Michigan, 6-2, 18
19.   Toledo, 7-0, 19
20.   North Carolina, 7-1, 21
21.   Ole Miss, 7-2, 22
22.   Temple, 7-1, 23
23.   Mississippi State, 6-2, 24
24.   UCLA, 6-2, 25
25.   Texas A&M, 6-2, NR

OUT:  Duke (20)

VOTES:  Southern Cal, Oregon, Wisconsin, California, Northwestern, Brigham Young, Louisville, Arizona State and Cincinnati.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

Nebraska got bludgeoned at West Lafayette as Purdue smashed the formerly strong Nebraska Cornhuskers 55-45 on Halloween, providing the ultimate spook on the fan base. Nebraska, one of the all time winningest teams in college football, got crushed today at pedestrian Purdue (it was 42-16 at one point) in stadium with an announced attendance of @30,000 mostly comprised of Husker fans, which is unacceptable under any circumstances. Yes, Nebraska played the game without starting quarterback Tommy Armstrong, and the team remains saddled with injuries, but the scout team should be able to gain a comfortable victory over lowly Purdue, winners of only one conference game in the last three seasons.  This loss is a low point, on the heels of an embarrassing home loss to Northwestern, which was preceded by some weeks by a one point loss to lowly Illinois. A loss to any of these teams in any given season should me considered a major upset, but to all three in a single season in five alarm troubling. I supported the hire of Mike Riley, but for whatever reasons, and those may be plentiful, the season has become a catastrophe.  There are the on the field issues, most notably turnovers, five of which resulted in 28 Boiler points. Understand Nebraska scored 29 fourth quarter points, and still lost by two scores.  There were other issues. There were players who did not seem to give a crap about getting hit in the face, the lack physicality and the abandonment of a running game (although it seemed to be going good early) and a shocking lack of command of both lines of scrimmage. The offensive line is young and lack some degree of talent (although, there appear to be players not getting on the field that have great promise?) but the failures of the defensive line, considered by most a team strength, are very troubling.  Those are the faults of the coaches, and to some degree the players. Injuries, which continued Saturday with the loss of DeMornay Pierson-El to a gruesome leg injury, have really hurt the 'Huskers. If the coaches identify players who are not giving 100%, and there is evidence looking at film, then they need to be shown the door. Wearing that "N" on the side of your helmet is a privilege, what it represents is of extreme significance to all the the former coaches and players who built this place, and the fans and alumni of the program. Coach Riley seems to pointing some statistical areas of improvement, but I recall former Coach Bill Callahan, who was appropriately fired, being much more concerned  by statistical achievements rather than winning games and preserving historical records (consecutive winning seasons and bowl appearances of on fire heat).  Riley needs to get control of this team right quick. Michigan State is coming to town, and they will punch you in the face.  Riley's 'Huskers, OUR 'Huskers, better not take that lying down.  It will be on national television, and the nation will be watching.  It is time to man up, and grasp the urgency surrounding the state of the program.  The talent to dump the Spartans is on hand, and Memorial Stadium will provide the energy needed, so get this done and put the Big Red on the road back to challenging for not only conference championships, but national championships. We expect that here, and if you don't fit in, hit the road.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

Early in the week, we learned that Dalvin Cook was out for the Syracuse game, yet another noon kickoff for FSU, for the which the Seminoles have often arrived sleepy. However, as College Gameday heated up, we learned that Seminole starting quarterback Everett Golson would not be available due to concussion issues. Sean Maguire would get the nod at signal caller for FSU.  Before Golson arrived from Notre Dame, Maguire seemed the heir apparent for the job, but Maguire had failed to seize the position in spring or fall practice. However, Maguire knows the offense well, can make the throws and, having lost a close battle to Golson, would be ready to lead the Seminoles without much if any drop off.  Maguire did a fine job, showing command of the offense and opening up the offense with precision in the vertical passing game. Maguire threw for over 300 in the first half, with WR Travis Rudolph, who had inexplicably been hiding on milk carton all season, the main beneficiary. With Cook out, there were concerns regarding the running game, but Jacques Patrick, a true freshman from Orlando Timber Creek, ran with authority all day, gaining 162 yards. Patrick appears quite the compliment to Cook, and given what we witnessed Saturday, could be an integral part of the FSU arsenal moving forward. Syracuse is not an upper echelon squad, but they are improving and are well coached. The Seminole defense gave up some ground, but stopped the Orange when necessary. Niles Lawrence Stample is really having a year, and true frosh Derwin James is going to be a superstar. The Seminoles have really missed Terrance Smith inside.  Nate Andrews returned and made some plays at safety.  FSU just needs to defeat complacency and establish greater consistency on defense, as the unit is borderline elite.  The 45-21 victory over Syracuse represented a decent day, much needed after the offense grounded to a halt at Georgia Tech last week, with the defense having just enough breakdowns to be costly. FSU may have a quarterback controversy, as there is little doubt Maguire graded out extremely high on this day. Looking at tape from GT (also watching in person), it does appear Golson is not getting the ball vertical with consistency, and Maguire excelled at that against Syracuse. There is little doubt Fisher will be be focus on this over this week as the Seminoles travel to Clemson for a monumental game, one FSU cannot lose if it has any playoff aspirations. FSU will underdogs of over a touchdown. I suspect FSU plays very well up in Death Valley, but this Clemson team is playing very well and is, thus far, considered a solid top five team. For FSU to win, Cook will need to get loose and the aforementioned vertical passing game will need to be engaged.  Defensively, FSU will give the offense opportunity to win it.