Pokes up 10-3 at the half

A field goal on the opening drive and a trick play with Robert Benjamin in as a WR throwing a 30 yard TD pass to Austyn Carta-Samuels has shocked the Utes.

Hopefully the second resembles the first.

Go Pokes!!!

Happy Halloween from Cowboy Altitude

Hope everyone has a fun and safe holiday.
Let's hope the Cowboys have some TRICKS for the Utes and TREAT us with a fifth win this season.

Saturday is a Blackout Game in Utah

This how people get wild and crazy in Salt Lake.

I prefer Brown and Gold. Go Pokes!

MWC Matchups this weekend

Wyoming @ #19 Utah
6:00pm MST
TV: The Mtn

This our pick for game of the week in the Mountain West. There is no love lost between these squads but Coach Christensen has the Cowboys in a new era. Hopefully that results in a different outcome.



Air Force @ Colorado State
2:00pm MST
TV: The Mtn


Can the Rams actually win another game this year? Air Force can move within one game of bowl eligibility if they take down CSU.

UNLV @ #8 TCU
2:00pm MST
TV: Versus

TCU should roll at home. This could get ugly for the Rebels.

New Mexico @ San Diego State
5:30pm MST
TV: CBS College

What will San Diego State do after their amazing come back last week? Will the Lobos learn how to win?


BYU

The Cougars have the week off to lick their wounds after being embarrassed by TCU last Saturday.

Cowboy Chatter 10-29-09

Cowboys in the Media

Laramie Boomerang: Cowboys can force plenty of fumbles they just need to recover more.

Laramie Boomerang: Freshman nose guard Mike Purcell has stepped up to the challenge.

Casper Tribune: David Leonard has provided a spark at punt returner.

Casper Tribune: The O-Line got things sorted out during the bye week.

Salt Lake Tribune: Utah knows the Cowboys are improved this season.

Hendricks named Mid Season All American

Brian Hendricks was one of six Mountain West players announced as a Midseason All-American today. He has truly been impressive in his first season as a starter for the Cowboys. He has great vision and is always around the ball.


Here is a quote from the MWC press release:

"Hendricks, a sophomore, ranks second in the league and third nationally with an average of 11.57 tackles per game in 2009. The Burlington, Colo., native has registered four games with double-figure tackles in 2009, including a league single-game high of 23 stops against Air Force on Oct. 17."


Let's hope Brian can keep up his stellar season and earn some more accolades after the season. This will be a nice boost for recruiting since Hendricks is so young and others players will want to be on the field with him for the next two years.

Cowboy Altitude endorses Seattle Sounders for MLS playoffs

So the Mountain West doesn't even have Men's Soccer but they do have Women's soccer. Denver and Salt Lake both have MLS teams plus Real Salt Lake even qualified for the playoffs with a late season run.

But expansion Seattle Sounders have wowed the league with their play and atmosphere. The playoffs start tonight and the opening game will be televised on ESPN starting at 7pm PST.

The Sounders will be facing off against #2 seed Houston Dynamo.

Weather Forecast for Salt Lake City

Good football weather expected on Saturday. High of 53 degrees with a low of 39. Only a light wind of 6mph is expected.

Things will cool down a bit for the 6pm kickoff but should still be solid weather.

Cross Country Championships this weekend

The Mountain West Cross Country Championships take place in Provo, UT this weekend hosted by BYU.

Men: 8k course starts at 10a.m.

Women: 6k course starts at 11a.m.

Both races will have the BYU Cougars and New Mexico Lobos contending for the title. BYU's Mens team has won 10 out of the last 11 titles. The Cougars are currently ranked #7 in the nation. The Lobos are ranked #19 in the nation and have Jacob Kirwa and Rory Fraser the only returning top 10 finishers from 2008.

In the women's race #20 New Mexico will look to defend their title against #21 BYU. The Cougars are led by Senior Angela Wagner the 2008 MWC Cross Country Female Athlete of the Year.

Good luck to the Cowboy and Cowgirl teams competing this weekend.

Full release from the MWC.

Wyoming/Utah Preview from the Mtn

James Bates says the Utes should be careful with the Cowboys this week.

Mountain West Roundup: News

AIR FORCE

Tim Jefferson is back at starting QB for the Falcons and feels like he never left.

BYU

The offense had its worst performance since 2005 and needs to step it up.

CSU

The Rams defense is getting very thin due to injuries and illness.

NEW MEXICO

The New Mexico Bowl isn't worrying about the Lobos. But instead which team from the MWC will be bowl eligible and play in Albuquerque. (note: You have to watch a 30 second ad to read article)

SDSU

Star WR Vincent Brown has a thumb injury and more tests are being done.

UNLV

Coach Tark says that he loves transfers from the Pac 10 because their cars are already paid for.

UTAH

The Ute offense is trying to get back on track this weekend against Wyoming.

Wyoming vs Utah Preview

Wyoming (4-3) at Utah (6-1).
6PM MST
TV: The Mtn

Series history: Utah leads 49-31-1


Last year: Utah routed the Cowboys 40-7 in a gusty day in Laramie. The Utes scored more points on special teams than the Cowboys did on offense. Wyoming had five turnovers in a typical Joe Glenn era performance.

Point Spread: Utah by 17

Since this game is being played on Halloween night the University marketing department decided that this game should be a second annual blackout. Apparently a "blackout" is where the players wear black uniforms, the fans wear black clothes and only let in.. oh never mind. I'm sure they let all the fans with a ticket in the game.

These teams really don't like each other especially since the 2007 game at Utah. Here is a condensed version of those events:

Joe Glenn : I guarantee a victory against Utah this weekend

Whittingham: That hurts our feelings. You must respect us.

Whittingham: Up 43-0 we will go for an onside kick in the 3rd quarter.

Joe Glenn: You guys are jerks. I salute you.


Wyoming: Coming off the bye week the Pokes are rested but still motivated by their 10-0 loss at Air Force two weeks ago. They've had plenty of time to look at tape of Utah and get a game plan together. Injuries weren't a major concern before but everyone is healthy now. Coach Christensen took the blame for not having team ready two weeks ago, they should be ready for this weekend. Austyn Carta-Samuels needs to bounce back after his first poor showing as a Cowboy.

Utah: Had to work really hard to escape with a OT victory over Air Force last weekend. Their offense has been sputtering recently and the fans are getting nervous. If Terrance Cain can settle down and Eddie Wide is able to handle the full time running back duties the Utes should be fine.

Why Wyoming will win: This is a new Cowboys program and not the one that has been embarrassed the last two years. The Utes are good but they aren't the same team that won the Sugar Bowl last year. Wyoming has had two weeks to get their players ready for this game: they are healthy and focused.

Why Utah will win: Talent. The Utes are a deep and talented team and even if they aren't firing on all cylinders they can still manage a victory against the Cowboys. Wyoming hasn't scored a point in the State of Utah since 2006.

Prediction: Utah gets back on track with a 34-21 victory.

Opponent Profile: The University of Utah

Know your Enemy: University of Utah


University of Utah or the U of U
Salt Lake City, Utah
Nickname: Utes
Mascot: Swoop
Enrollment: 21,5600 undergraduate
Elevation: 4,657 ft

Stadium: Rice - Eccles Stadium
Capacity: 45,017


Utah - 2009 Season

Ranked #16 in the Nation
6-1 Overall
3-0 Conference

Last Week: Won 23-16 over Air Force in OT

Last meeting with Wyoming: October 11, 2008 - Won 40-7


Offensive game plan:

The Utes come at their opponents with a fairly balanced attack that tilts slightly towards the run. Terrence Cain is a dual threat QB has done a great job in his first season in Utah after playing at JC earlier. The Utes lead the Mountain West with a 4.8 yards per rush average. Eddie Wide is a quick and agile runner who starts now that Matt Asiata is out for the season. David Reed is their one threat at wide out, so far this season he has 45 catches for 695 yards.

Defensive game plan:

Utah has the third ranked defense in the Mountain West. They have given up the least amount of passing yards in the conference but have shown they are vulnerable to the run. The ability of Austyn Carta-Samuels to run or throw could give the Utes some trouble.

Week 9 Press Conference

Coach Christensen discusses the bye week and what to except when the Cowboys face Utah this weekend.

Pokes in the Pro's: NBA Edition

THEO RATLIFF - FORWARD/CENTER, SAN ANTONIO SPURS

Ratliff is the only Wyoming alum that is currently playing the in the NBA. He has been a huge defensive presence throughout his career. There is a lot we can say about Theo but that will part of a larger piece later in the season.

We'll leave you with a highlight video to help hold you over.

Pokes in the Pro's: NFL Edition

MALCOM FLOYD - WIDE RECIEVER, SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Undrafted out of College. Has a brother named Malcolm that played for the Oilers/Titans and Rams.

Floyd is now in his fifth year in the NFL all spent in San Diego. Last season Floyd had his most productive season hauling in 27 catches for 465 yards and 4 touchdowns.

This season he has 9 catches for 187 yards. He caught his first touchdown of the season this weekend against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chargers have a great offense and it is tough get targets when you weapons like Vincent Jackson, Antonio Gates and LaDainian Tomlinson. Floyd is challenging Chris Chambers for the #2 WR spot.





ADAM GOLDBERG - GUARD/TACKLE, ST LOUIS RAMS

Went undrafted out college.

Goldberg started in the NFL in 2004 with Minnesota Vikings after being signed as a free agent. After two years in the Land of 10,000 Lakes he left for the Show Me State and joined the Rams. Goldberg appeared in all 16 games for the Rams last year and started six of those. He has appeared in only game this year after signing a 2 year $1.8 million deal in March.



JOHN WENDLING - SAFETY, BUFFALO BILLS

Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the Sixth round of the 2007 Draft.

Has spent most of his time playing special teams for the Bills. Had 10 solo tackles a rookie. Last year he appeared in all 16 games for the Bills. This season Wendling has appeared in all seven games for the Bills and has five tackles (one solo).



DERRICK MARTIN - SAFETY, GREEN BAY PACKERS

Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the Sixth Round of the 2006 draft.

Spent his first three years in the league with the Ravens before being traded this offseason to the Packers. His best year was 2007 which included 2 interceptions, 32 tackles, 1 FR and 7 PDs. Missed most of 2008 with a shoulder injury. Has four tackles so far this year.

Cowboys Add 3 Star DB

Greg Barksdale a OLB/Safety out of Crete Monee High School (IL) verbally committed to University of Wyoming for the 2010 season. Barksdale (6-3, 210 pounds) is rated as three star prospect. He has Rivals rating of 5.5 and was clocked at 4.6 seconds for his 40.

Northern Illinois was the only other school to offer a scholarship.

Two reasons Barksdale chose Wyoming are the relationship with the coaching staff and the players. Wyoming spent a lot of time recruiting Barksdale and it payed off. His high school teammate CB Dylan McElveen will also be attending Wyoming next year.

The Cowboys now have 13 commitments for the class of 2010 including three "3 Star" rated players.

COMMITTED	Pos	Stars	Ht	Wt	40
C.J. Bennett	QB	***	6'0	198	4.9
Greg Barksdale	LB	***	6'3	210	4.6
Darrenn White	ATH	***	6'0	180	4.5
Riley Lange	DE	**	6'4	230	4.65
Drew Martinez	WR	**	6'1	165	-
Sonny Puletasi	DE	**	6'3	215	4.73
Sam Stratton	QB	**	6'0	185	4.56
Desmond Tautofi	DE	**	6'4	275	-
Dylan McElveen	DB	**	6'1	185	-
Tyler Strong	DT	**	6'3	268	-
C.J. Morgan	WR	**	5'10	170	4.45
Nehemie Kankolongo	RB		5'11	200	-
Billy Vavau	DT		6'3	295	-

___________________________________________



Recruiting Notes: Last year the Cowboys had 25 commitments including four "3 star" rated players. The coaching staff had only a couple months to hit the recruiting trail once Coach Christensen and his crew took over for the departed Coach Joe Glenn.

The Coaches used the bye week last weekend to visit with recruits from around the country. Coach Christensen spent his time in California while other coaches hit the Junior College circuit.

The Cowboys have really started to expand the territory from which they recruit. The Front Range is always going to be important but being able to attract players from California, Texas, Missouri and Illinois can really help the Cowboys take that next step as a program.

BCS Rankings Week 2

Movers and shakers in the BCS.

TCU moves up to #6. Utah moves up to #16. BYU drops out. Boise drops despite the blowout of Hawaii.

		BCS		Harris Poll			USA Today
RK	TEAM	AVG	PVS	RK	PTS	%	RK	PTS	%	AVG
1	Florida	.9726	1	1	2765	.9788	1	1459	.9892	2
2	Alabama	.9450	2	2	2674	.9465	2	1399	.9485	3
3	Texas	.8927	3	3	2672	.9458	3	1390	.9424	5
4	Iowa	.8249	6	8	2086	.7384	8	1086	.7363	1
5	USC	.7944	7	4	2316	.8198	4	1244	.8434	9
6	TCU	.7890	8	7	2119	.7501	6	1131	.7668	4
7	Boise State	.7752	4	5	2273	.8046	5	1152	.7810	8
8	Cincinnati	.7735	5	6	2224	.7873	7	1126	.7634	6
9	LSU	.7030	9	9	1994	.7058	9	1037	.7031	10
10	Oregon	.6456	11	11	1689	.5979	12	839	.5688	6
11	Georgia Tech	.5895	12	12	1644	.5819	11	865	.5864	11
12	Penn State	.5851	13	10	1699	.6014	10	935	.6339	13
13	Virginia Tech	.4921	14	14	1350	.4779	14	691	.4685	12
14	Oklahoma State	.4494	15	13	1522	.5388	13	825	.5593	17
15	Pittsburgh	.3415	20	17	952	.3370	17	542	.3675	16
16	Utah	.3161	18	19	834	.2952	19	403	.2732	15
17	Ohio State	.3147	19	15	1125	.3982	15	569	.3858	23
18	Houston	.3085	17	16	1064	.3766	16	544	.3688	22
19	Miami (FL)	.2491	10	18	858	.3037	18	433	.2936	24
20	Arizona	.2241	22	25	230	.0814	24	149	.1010	14
21	West Virginia	.1959	23	20	622	.2202	20	365	.2475	25
22	South Carolina	.1891	24	21	475	.1681	21	279	.1892	20
23	Notre Dame	.1197	NR	24	236	.0835	25	82	.0556	19
24	California	.0916	NR	28	65	.0230	29	32	.0217	18
25	Mississippi	.0907	NR	23	342	.1211	22	223	.1512	28

Mountain West Mondays

Recapping all the Mountain West Action over the weekend.

TCU @ BYU

This was the game of the week in College Football. It was a great game unless you are a BYU fan. The Horned Frogs jumped out a 21-0 lead and never looked back. The only bad news is that TCU beat BYU so bad in the 38-7 win that it knocked the Cougars out of the Top 25 rankings. The win vaulted the Froggies to #6 in the BCS standings.

Box Score


San Diego State @ CSU

A tale of two halves here. CSU looked like they finally going to a win and break their four game losing streak when they were up 21-7 heading into the half. Ryan Lindley and the Aztecs took to the air for 459 yards and six touchdowns as they roared back with 35 points in the second half to end up winning 42-28. A promising start to the season has been derailed for Rams.

Box Score


Air Force @ Utah

Past games have been very close and this game didn't disappoint. The Utes had problems all game long with 6 fumbles but only losing two. The Falcons forced a 16-16 tie with a 48 yard field goal that sent the game into overtime. Utah ran for a TD in their first possession of OT then the defense stepped up and smothered the Falcons on a 4th and 2 to earn a hard fought 23-16 victory.

Box Score


UNLV @ New Mexico

It really doesn't matter who coaches the Lobos - it is the same result. The Lobos are now 0-7 following the 34-17 loss to the Rebels. You never know what will happen but chances are pretty good now that New Mexico will finish with an 0-12 record this season.

Box Score

Cowboy Altitude on Facebook

Cowboy Altitude is now on Facebook. Join the Group to meet other Wyoming fans.

Mountain West Standings

Mountain West Standings - 10/26/09

	Conf	All
TCU (8)	3-0	7-0
Utah (19)	3-0	6-1
Brigham Young	3-1	6-2
Wyoming	2-1	4-3
Air Force	3-2	4-4
San Diego State	1-2	3-4
UNLV	1-3	3-5
New Mexico	0-3	0-7
Colorado State	0-4	3-5

Mountain West Players of the Week

The awards this week have a big time San Diego flavor. Full release from the MWC.

Offense

RYAN LINDLEY, SAN DIEGO STATE
Sophomore, Quarterback, Lakeside, Calif./El Capitan HS

Went 29 for 43 for459 yards and six touchdowns as the Aztecs put in an amazing second half to upset the CSU Rams 42-28 on the road.


DeMARCO SAMPSON, SAN DIEGO STATE
Senior, Wide Receiver, Chula Vista, Calif./Castle Park HS

Filling in for the injured Vincent Brown, Sampson pulled in career highs of 15 catches for 257 yards and 3 TD's. His 257 yards rank him second in the nation so far this year.


Defense

JASON BEAUCHAMP, UNLV
Senior, Linebacker/Defensive End, San Diego, Calif./Steele Canyon HS

9 tackles (six solo), two sacks, three tackles for loss and a forced fumble in a victory over the New Mexico Lobos.


Special Teams

SEAN SELLWOOD, UTAH
Freshman, Punter, Salt Lake City, Utah/Judge Memorial HS

Averaged 48.1 yards on eight punts in a OT victory over Air Force.

Whats happening?

Here is the scoop on what we'll be doing each day this week. So make sure you check in everday. Or why don't you just become a follower of Cowboy Altitude so you can check the updates easier? :)

Monday - Mountain West Mondays
Recap of all the action in the MWC

Tuesday - Pokes in the Pro's
A look at former Wyoming players in the NFL and NBA

Wednesday - Wyoming vs Utah Preview
Previewing the upcoming game in Utah this weekend

Thursday - News from around the MWC
News from all the league

Friday - Preview all the MWC match ups
Predictions for all the Mountain West games this weekend

Weekend - Travel and Family
I'll be traveling to Colorado this weekend to be with family. I'll attend the CSU-AF game so I'll be doing some scouting for the Bronze Boot game. Will be able to update the blog via the blackberry stay tuned for recaps and analysis.

Crazy weekend in MWC

What an amazing first round of games so far today in the Mountain West.

The Falcons and Utes went to an thrilling overtime game which the Utes pulled out 23-16. The Falcons were stopped on a 4th and 2 which sealed the victory for the Utes.

The San Diego Aztecs scored. 21 unanswered to upset the Colorado State Rams on the road 42-28. The Rams have now lost five in a row after starting the season 3-0.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

5 Star Hoop Prospect looking at Wyoming

Great read from the Laramie Boomerang about San Diego Prep Star Angelo Chol and his recruitment.

Angelo Chol is 6'9 Junior out Hoover High School in San Diego. As a Sophomore he averaged 12.8 points, 13.2 rebounds and 9.6 blocks per game. Chol has narrowed down his list of possible schools down to 11.

Those schools include:

• Alabama
• Arizona State
• UConn
• Florida
• Georgetown
• Kansas
• UNC*
• UCLA
• Virginia
• Washington
• Wyoming

*Every school has offered a scholarship except UNC

Now most folks would say that Wyoming has no chance of nabbing a Top 20 National talent like Chol but there are two factors that weigh heavily in the Cowboys favor.

1. JayDee Luster - the RS Soph Guard for the Cowboys attended the same High School as Chol and the two have a great relationship. This bond is very strong and Chol is expected to come visit Laramie on Nov. 11-13th to watch Luster make his debut with the Cowboys.

2. Diversity - Chol was born in Sudan and moved to San Diego at the age of 7. The Cowboys have a very diverse roster with several players that were born in Senegal, Mali and France. This culture could be very attractive to Chol when he chooses a school.

Though signing day is still a long ways away we will keep you updated on this story and any other developments for the 2011 recruiting class. Landing a player of this caliber could be a huge step for the growth of Wyoming Cowboy basketball.

Great MWC Matchups this Weekend!

While the Pokes have the weekend off you can tune in and scout the competition. You can preview the Cowboys upcoming opponents for the rest of the season by watching just three games this Saturday.

Game of the Week

#10 TCU @ #16 BYU
5:30pm MST
TV: Versus

ESPN College Game Day is making big news by coming to Provo. This is only the third time the GD crew has been in attendance for a game hosted by a Mountain West team. The fact that ESPN can't even broadcast the game makes it even more impressive. Best game in College Football this weekend.

TCU has their BCS dreams on the line. A loss here will sink the Horned Frogs and the MWC. The Cougars are looking to return the favor at TCU ruined their season last year.

Prediction: TCU 27 - BYU21


Air Force @ #19 Utah
2:00pm MST
TV: Versus

Air Force has one of the top defenses in the nation. Will they be able to stop the Utes and their powerful offense? Utah will become the third MWC team to become bowl eligible with a victory. These games have been close every year and don't expect anything to change.

Prediction: Utah 17 - Air Force 10


San Diego State @ Colorado State
2:00PM MST
TV: The Mtn

The Cowboys better study this game and figure out a way they can beat the Aztecs and Rams if they want to play in a bowl game this year. CSU has lost 4 in a row and is win less in the Mountain West this year. The second half of their schedule is much easier now and they need this victory at home.

Prediction: CSU 31 - SDSU 21


UNLV @ New Mexico
6:00PM MST
TV: The Mtn

This game is all about pride. If New Mexico wants to try and get a win this season this is their best chance. UNLV need this win to try and stay with the middle tier of teams in the Mountain West.

Prediction: UNLV 37 - New Mexico 17

Getting to know Shreveport, LA

The home of the Advocare V100 Independence Bowl and host of a Mountain West vs ACC matchup starting in 2010.

Interested in learning more about Shreveport? No.. Well too bad. Here is more information then you probably ever wanted to know.

Founded in 1836 by the Shreve Town Company to found a town at the junction of the Red River and Texas Trail. Now the 3rd largest city in Louisiana and 99th largest in the US with a population of 200,145.

Area is know as Ar-La-Tex. Arkansas-Louisiana-Texas

Area Code: 318

Industry: Home of a GM plant that produces the H3, H3T, Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon and Isuzu I-Series. Scheduled to close on or before 2012. Riverboat gambling has been growing in popularity over the years.

Climate: Typical of the region. Subtropical climate with lots of heat, humidity and rain.

Elevation: 144 ft

Average temp in December:

High - 58
Low - 37

Birthplace of: Terry Bradshaw, John David Booty, Jacob Hester.

Former sports teams:

Shreveport Pirates (Canadian Football League)
Shreveport Steamer (World Football League)

Current Teams:

Bossier-Shreveport Battle Wings (afl2)
Bossier-Shreveport Mud Bugs (CHL)
Shreveport-Bossier Captains (American Association) Independent Baseball

Airport:

Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV)
Served by Allegiant, American, Continental, Delta

Driving distance/times:

New Oreans - 342 miles / 5 hours 21 minutes
Dallas - 186 miles /2 hours 59 minutes
Houston - 241 miles /5 hours 44 minutes

Mountain West

Albuquerque - 933 miles - 14 hours 26 minutes
Colorado Springs - 1,049 miles - 16 hours 159 minutes
Fort Collins - 1,120 miles - 17 hours 21 minutes
Fort Worth - 222 miles - 3 hours 29 minutes
Las Vegas - 1501 miles - 23 hours 59 minutes
Laramie - 1201 miles - 18 hours 31 minutes
Provo - 1,625 miles - 25 hours
Salt Lake City - 1,591 miles - 25 hours
San Diego -1,546 miles - 23 hours 49 minutes


Independence Bowl History

- Played in Independence Stadium
- Founded in 1976 and named after the Bicentennial celebration

In 1990 became one the first bowls to take a corporate sponsor and became known as the Poulan Weed-Eater Bowl.

Other former Sponsors:

Sanford Writing Products 1998-2000
MainStay Investments 2001-2003

In 2005 the Bowl rejected the bid of Deja-Vu Gentleman's Clubs to become the title sponsor.

PetroSun - 2006-2007. PetroSun was supposed to be the sponsor through 2008 but bailed prior to the '08 game due the Economic crisis.

Advocare - 2009-Present

Advocare is a maker of energy drinks and nutritional supplements that are sold through multi-level marketing.

Independence Stadium Facts


Opened in: 1925

Capacity: 50,832

Field Surface: Turf

Hosted a New Orleans Saint preseason game in 2005 while the Superdome was being repaired. The South Endzone borders Interstate 20.

Hosts area high school football games during the Fall.

Last years Independence Bowl:

Lousiana Tech 17 Northern Illinois - 10
Attendance - 41,567
Nielsen Rating - 0.8

Mountain West adds Independence Bowl to 2010 lineup

Goodbye Boise. Hello Shreveport!

As has been rumored for a couple weeks now the Independence Bowl will be a Mountain West vs ACC bowl game. The three year agreement starts for the 2010 season. This agreement means that the Humanitarian Bowl will be dropped from the Mountain West lineup following this year.

This should mean nicer weather for the fans in attendance.

Avg Temp in December:

Boise - 37 degrees

Shreveport - 58 degrees

This agreement will mean more $$$ for the Mountain West. The Advocare 100 Independence Bowl paid out $1.1 million last year compared to $750,000 for the Humanitarian Bowl.

The 2010 match up will feature the #3 team from the MWC vs the #7 ACC. Last year the #7 team from the ACC would be either 7-5 Miami or Clemson.

The opportunity to face a BCS opponent is huge and can go a long ways towards improving the Mountain West bid for an automatic BCS birth.

This game will certainly be easy for the TCU fans to attend but again so is their hometown Armed Forces Bowl. The key will be to see if the Front Range or Utah based fan is willing to travel east of the Mississippi.

The Mountain West lost the San Francisco based Emerald Bowl due to poor attendance by CSU/Utah/Air Force/New Mexico.

WYONATION

Sometimes it can be hard to find enough information on the Cowboys out there on the wild and crazy internet. That is one reason that I created this blog.

Another great resource you should check out is Wyonation. You can interact with other Cowboy fans on their free message boards. They also offer lots of updates on whats happening in Laramie.

With Wyonation and Cowboy Altitude we hope to give fans entertainment and news on their favorite team. Go Pokes!

Making the Rounds - 10/21/09

Making the Rounds: New from around the Mountain West Conference.

As seen on Mountain West Connection.

Air Force: The Falcons want to add some balance to their offense.

BYU: The Cougars still have the loss to TCU from last year on their mind.

Colorado State: The Rams can relate to the Aztecs state.

New Mexico: Greg Barlow will be handling coaching duties for the Lobos this weekend.

San Diego State: The basketball arena has a new name and a new scoreboard.

TCU: The Horned Frogs have a new Athletic Director.

UNLV: The Rebels want to try something different in the red zone. Scoring.

Utah: The student group support MUSS keeps growing at Ute games.

Wyoming: The Cowboys and Cowgirls are getting ready for the start of basketball season.

Cowboy Defensive Leaders

Pictured: #91 John Fletcher goes after Colt McCoy



Despite the three losses there have been a number of positives coming from the Cowboy defensive unit this season. A number of players are among the NCAA leaders in several categories.

Brian Hendricks - LB, Sophomore

Hendricks keeps getting better and better each week. Last Saturday against Air Force he set a Wyoming single game record with 23 total tackles. Hendricks has 21 solo and 46 assist tackles on the year. His 67 total tackles rank him 15th in FBS. His record helped earn Hendricks Defensive POW honors last week.

Greg Knapton - LB, Sophomore

Knapton has been a consistent force on defense all year. Has 16 tackles on the year (17/48). His 48 assists rank him second in the FBS just one behind a couple of Big 10 linebackers. Has recorded double digit tackles his last five games.

Shamiel Gary - S, Freshman

Shamiel made a huge impact in his first ever game for the Cowboys. His three interceptions kept Weber State from pulling off the upset. His 53 tackles (16/37) rank him third on the team. With 37 assists Gary is ranked 17th in FBS.

John Fletcher - DT, Senior

Fletcher has done a great job of clogging up running lanes and terrorizing opposing QBs this year. For the year he has seven sacks which rank seventh in FBS. Fletcher has had at least one sack in every game with the UNLV game being the only exception. The 272 lb linemen will hopefully be playing on Sunday somewhere next year.

Mountain West Standings - 10/18/2009

Mountain West Conference Standings
(updated 10.18.2009 at 12:26 AM PDT)

Overall - W L

TCU Horned Frogs 6 - 0 * #8
BYU Cougars 6 - 1 * #16
Utah Utes 5 - 1 #18
Air Force Falcons 4 - 3
Wyoming Cowboys 4 - 3
Colorado St. Rams 3 - 4
San Diego St. Aztecs 2 - 4
UNLV Rebels 2 - 5
New Mexico Lobos 0 - 6

Conference - W - L

BYU Cougars 3 - 0 *
TCU Horned Frogs 2 - 0*
Utah Utes 2 - 0
Air Force Falcons 3 - 1
Wyoming Cowboys 2 - 1
San Diego St. Aztecs 0 - 2
New Mexico Lobos 0 - 2
Colorado St. Rams 0 - 3
UNLV Rebels 0 - 3

* = Bowl Eligibile
# = BCS Ranking

Mountain West Players of the Week


Congrats to Brian Hendricks on a setting a Wyoming single game record with tackles against Air Force on Saturday. This is the fifth time this season that a Cowboy has been named Player of the Week. Hendricks join P/KP Austin McCoy, PK Ian Watts and Austyn Carta-Samuels (twice).

Release from the Mountain West Conference

Oct. 19, 2009

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -

Max Hall (BYU), Brian Hendricks (Wyoming) and Jeremy Kerley (TCU) are Mountain West Conference Players of the Week for games through Oct. 17. Hall earns the Offensive Player of the Week honor, while Hendricks garners the Defensive Player award and Kerley receives Special Teams recognition. This marks the third player of the week honor for Hall this season (seventh career), while Kerley collects his second (both season and career). It is the first career accolade for Hendricks.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

MAX HALL, BYU
Senior, Quarterback, Mesa, Ariz./Arizona State
Max Hall accounted for 393 yards of offense and four touchdowns in No. 19 BYU's 38-28 win at San Diego State. Hall completed 27-of-39 attempts for a season-high 346 yards and three touchdowns through the air while adding a career-best 47 yards on 14 carries and one touchdown on the ground. The senior quarterback scored his rushing touchdown as time expired in the first half to give BYU a seven-point lead at the break. Hall connected on two touchdown passes on key third-down plays in the second half to keep the Cougars in front, helping BYU convert 15-of-21 third-down plays in the game overall. The Mesa, Ariz., native spread the ball around to nine different receivers and did not throw an interception for the second straight game.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

BRIAN HENDRICKS, WYOMING
Sophomore, Linebacker, Burlington, Colo./Burlington HS
Brian Hendricks forced a fumble and registered a Wyoming single-game record with 23 total tackles (11 solo) in a 10-0 loss at Air Force. The sophomore linebacker's 23 stops, which also tied an MWC single-game record, shattered a Cowboy mark that had stood since 1972 when Frank Erzinger made 21 tackles against New Mexico. Hendricks' biggest stops came midway through the second quarter with Air Force having a first-and-goal at the Wyoming 10-yard line. The Burlington, Colo., product made tackles on both first and second down, then helped the UW defense force a fourth-down incomplete pass to maintain a 0-0 tie going into the half. Hendricks led a Cowboy defensive effort that held the Falcons to a season-low 10 points and just two yards through the air, the second-fewest passing yards in league history. Wyoming also limited Air Force to 269 yards total offense, 90 yards under its season average. Hendricks becomes only the third Cowboy in 113 seasons to record 20 or more tackles in a single game.

SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK

JEREMY KERLEY, TCU
Junior, Punt Returner, Hutto, Texas/Hutto HS
Jeremy Kerley registered 103 yards on three punt returns with a touchdown in No. 8 TCU's 44-6 win over Colorado State. The junior's 69-yard punt return TD late in the second quarter put the Horned Frogs on top, 17-6, heading into the break. His other two returns also set up TCU scores, accounting for 13 points overall. Kerley, who hails from Hutto, Texas, averaged 34.3 yards per return in the game.

Mountain West Mondays

Mountain West Mondays

Welcome to the first installment of Mountain West Mondays. We will use this section to get you caught up from news all around the Conference.

So all of the news on Monday will relate to the other nine teams in the Mountain West.


Wyoming at Air Force
Air Force shutouts Wyoming at home 10-0. Defensive battle for both teams. The Falcons solidfy themselves as the #4 team in the Mountain West.


Box Score


Colorado State at TCU
TCU shows what their offense can do when the field isn't covered in snow and it's 15 degrees out. The Horned Frogs are now bowl eligible and still undefeated this season. TCU 44 - CSU 3.

Box Score


BYU at San Diego State
The Aztecs came out and surprised the Cougars with their tough play. This one had the possiblity of being a huge upset before BYU settled down and won their sixth game of the season. The Cougars are also bowl eligibile. BYU 38- SDSU - 28.

Box Score

Utah at UNLV
Amazing stat: both teams totaled 327 total yards on offense. Bad news is that the Utes put 35 points to the Rebels 15. This game was essentially over in the first half.

Box Score


New Mexico
The good news is that Lobos achived something they haven't all season: they didn't lose. Unfortunately they had to wait for their bye week to accomplish this feat. When they do face UNLV this weekend they be without head coach Mike Locksley who can been suspended without pay for 10 games for punching WR Coach J.B. Gerald.

Locksley says he used "poor judgement". Really? I guess he was just trying to take after Tom Cable.


MWC RECAP VIDEO

Falcons shutout the Cowboys

Falcons shutdown Cowboys

It took nearly 45 minutes for the Air Force Falcons (4-3, 3-1 Mountain West) were able to get on the board in a 10-0 victory over the Wyoming Cowboys (4-3,2-1) at home. Erik Soderberg kicked a 29 yard field goal with 37 seconds remaining in the third quarter to give the Falcons a 3-0 lead in a sloppy game by both teams. Four minutes later Jared Tew ran it in from 17 yards out to conclude the scoring for the Falcons and the game. The Falcons have now won four straight over the Cowboys.

Neither team had much luck moving the ball as tough defense and penalties bogged down drives all game long. Wyoming was flagged 10 times for 71 yards while Air Force was penalized 13 times for 125 yards.

Tim Jefferson got the start at QB for the Falcons but was mostly innefective. Coach Troy Calhoun put in Connor Dietz for the second half and was able to get the Falcons in rhythm and grab the victory. Calhoun had been mum all week on who would start at QB for the Falcons.

Jared Tew lead the Falcons with 27 carries for 105 yards. Air Force totaled 269 yards for the game with only two coming through the air. The Falcons defense held the Pokes to 174 yards for the game.

Wyoming was never able to break inside the Falcons 30 yard line. Their only scoring threat came on a 47 yard field goal that was blocked with time expiring at the end of the first half. QB Austyn Carta-Samuels was 14/31 for only 76 yards and one interception. David Leonard continued to be one of the top targets as he grabbed a team leading seven receptions for 36 yards.

The Cowboys defense held Air Force offense in check for most the game. Brian Hendricks finished with 23 tackles and John Fletcher added two sacks.

Air Force had two other chances to score but failed on 4th and Goal situations in both halves.

Air Force travels to Utah next week while Wyoming has the week off.

No Mtn on the DISH

Interesting article from the Trib.com. Lots of folks in Wyoming have the DISH network since cable is not an option where they live. This makes it impossible for fans to watch the Cowboys most of the year. Negotiations have stalled and it doesn't seem like anyone is very optimistic about anything being settled soon.

I can relate to everyone who can't watch the Cowboys. I live in Washington State and I'm a Comcast customer. Comcast does carry the Mtn if you live in Wyoming, Colorado, etc... but not for other markets. Only two games that were televised for me were vs Texas and Colorado. I'm shutout for the rest of the season.

I have the bonus sports package that adds all the CBS College Stations but the Mtn is not included. CBS owns the Mtn so they should make sure their premier sports network is bundled with the rest of their sports channels.

The Big 10 Network is included with my sports package so they should add the Mtn as well. I really don't want to have to switch to DirectTV just to watch the sports teams I want.

I did call my local Comcast branch and tell them to carry the Mtn. The representative had never heard of the channel before.

Mountain West Connection

Mountain West Connection

If you're ever looking for more information on the Mountain West Conference make sure you check out the blog Mountain West Connection first. You can get news from around the MWC and a perspective from each school.

Cowboy Altitude will be helping out by providing news and information from a Cowboy point of view. New articles and polls are posted everyday so make you follow Mountain West Connection and Cowboy Altitude.

Wyoming vs Air Force Preview

Wyoming vs Air Force Preview

Series History: Air Force leads 24-20-3

Last year: Air Force 23 Wyoming 3. Air Force forced five turnovers on the road and their defense stifled any hope of Wyoming starting the season 2-0. Dax Crum (seen above) was 7 for 19 for 72 yards and an interception. He is now buried safely on the Cowboys depth chart.

Point Spread: Air Force by 10.5

Wyoming: The Pokes are winners of three in a row and the offense has put up 30+ points since true freshman Austyn Carta-Samuels has been named the starting QB. Coach Christensen has this team believing in themselves and isn't afraid to play the young players who are willing to play hard.

Air Force: The Falcons boast the nations 18th best defense and tops in the Mountain West. Have lost three games by a combined 13 points. Their running game is as potent as ever with six players with over 100 yards rushing so far this season. Coach Calhoun hasn't decided who still start the game at QB for the Falcons. Tim Jefferson was #1 before an ankle sprain took him out four weeks ago. Connor Dietz has filled in nicely in his absence. Jefferson has the better arm while Dietz is a much stronger runner.

Why Wyoming will win: Team morale is sky high after two come from behind victories and then a solid victory at home last week. With all the veteran leadership on defense the Cowboys are familiar with the Falcons triple option offense and know how to stop it. The Falcons have never seen the Cowboys spread offense in person and will have a hard time bottling up Austyn Carta-Samuels. The Falcons have a number of injuries to their linebacking corp that help the Cowboy passing game.

Why Wyoming will lose: Air Force is generally considered the best team in the Mountain West after the Big 3 (BYU, TCU, UTAH). After a three point loss to TCU last week the Falcons are ready to win again. Wyoming has never started with a 3-0 record in conference play.

Final thoughts: This game will tell us a lot about the rest of the season. If Wyoming can pull out a victory then they control their destiny as they fight for a bowl berth. If they lose it could be a tough stretch as they face Utah and BYU after the off week.

Prediction: Wyoming pulls out a hard fought game and escapes Colorado Springs with a W.

Wyoming 23 - Air Force 17

Devin Moore released from Seahawks practice squad

Devin Moore released from Seahawks practice squad

According to a Rotoworld.com player update former Wyoming RB Devin Moore was cut from the Seattle Seahawks practice squad on September 30th. Moore was signed by the Seahawks in April as a non drafted free agent following the 2009 NFL Draft. In the preseason Moore lead the team with 45 rushes and 145 yards. He also had the only rushing TD for the Hawks during the preseason.

Instead the Seahawks are overpaying underachieving Julius Jones and over the hill Edgerrin James to try and run the ball with little success. They should at least give Justin Forsett some carries as he can actually accelerate out of the backfield.

Hopefully Moore will sign on with another team this season or keep working for a roster spot next year.

OPPONENT PROFILE: AIR FORCE

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR ENEMY: AIR FORCE ACADEMY


United States Air Force Academy or Air Force
Colorado Springs, CO
Nickname: Fighting Falcons
Mascot: The Bird
Enrollment: 4,500 cadets
Elevation: 6,612 ft

Stadium: Air Force Academy Falcon Stadium
Capacity: 52,480


Air Force - 2009 season

Coach: Troy Calhoun

3-3 overall
2-1 Conference (5th)

Last week: Lost to TCU 20-17.

Last meeting with Wyoming:

September 6, 2008, W 23-3


Offensive game plan:

Run the ball, run the ball and then run it again. The triple option is the trade mark of the Falcon attack. Have used 18 different ball carriers during the season so far. Over six have recorded 100+ yards for the season but none have broken 320. They never run out of rushers so they wear down defenses with their grinding run game.

The tough thing will be figuring which QB will start for AF. Tim Jefferson started the season as the #1 QB but an ankle sprain against San Diego State four weeks ago has opened up the door for Connor Dietz. There is no time line for when Coach Calhoun will decide.

Defensive game plan:

Give up a conference best 13.8 points per game. Lead the nation in turnover differential and have scored 3 TD's on defense. The Falcons take advantage of any mistake their opponents make. Three losses this season have been by a total of 13 points.

Austyn at Air Force?

AUSTYN AT THE ACADEMY?

Great article by Irv Moss from the Denver Post covering freshman phenom Austyn Carta-Samuels. He was very close to choosing the Air Force Academy over Wyoming.

Luckily he made the wise choice and is in Laramie.


Frosh QB better fit at Wyoming