TCU, WVU back where they belong
October 30, 2014
When TCU and West Virginia entered the Big 12 in 2012, the pundits said the Frogs and Mountaineers didn’t belong or they couldn’t play in the “big boy” sandbox, especially the Frogs.
And while the first two years in the new league were not a cakewalk for either program, both Gary Patterson and Dana Holgersen took copious notes, assessed where their respective squads were short and made changes to make their teams in order to win, not just be competitive.
Size on the defensive line, depth in the secondary and additional difference-makers at wide receivers were the recipe. A good QB would help, too.
All are now in place for both teams as they prep for their “Showdown in Morgantown” this Saturday.
From 4-8 last year to this week’s College Football Playoff initial unveiling, both teams have the right to say, “How do you like me now?”
Even ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit is saying the Frogs can be in his Final 4, and West Virginia is on his list of Top 25 teams. My how things have changed for these teams!
Or returned to where they were.
Many were quick to forget that TCU and West Virginia were among the most successful programs much of the last decade. These schools are back where they belong — on the big stage and banner-carriers for their conference.
Saturday will be fun.
On Another Note
My heart breaks for Brandon Finnegan and the Royals after last night’s Game 7. Finny had a great year, becoming the only player to play in the College World Series and Major League Baseball World Series in the same year. He made a name for himself and represented TCU with tremendous pride. Thanks, Finny!
Kick ‘Em High!
About Extra Points with John Denton
John Denton has been the color analyst for the TCU Sports Network from IMG since 1988. A former standout for the Horned Frog football team, Denton went from walk-on to a four-year lettermen as a kicker and punter for the Purple and White from 1981-84 and completed his career at the 1984 Bluebonnet Bowl. Shown here with his former coach, the late Jim Wacker, Denton currently serves as the Associate Athletics Director for Athletics Alumni Relations & Executive Director of the Block T Association.
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