~~~WELCOME TO THE DUQUESNE DUKES FOOTBALL FORUM~~~
This forum is for discussion of Duquesne Football since other excellent Duquesne Basketball forums exist. (Links below). It is also open to all Duquesne sponsored or club sports. Duquesne sponsors: Baseball, Basketball (M/W), Cross Country (M/W), Football, Golf (M), Soccer (M/W), Swimming (M/W), Tennis (M/W), Track and Field (M/W), Wrestling, LaCrosse (W), Crew (W), Volleyball (W). Club Sports include Ice Hockey and Men's Crew. This is a discussion forum where you are a guest. Treat others as you would like to be treated. No foul language, using another's moniker or personal attacks. Character on the field and on this forum reflects upon Duquesne. Links to this site are encouraged. Feedback is welcome.
Date Posted:Sunday, September 07, 09:35:44am
I was on campus today and saw the completed Rooney Field renovations. When the plans were announced, I was a little underwhelmed.
But having seen it in person, I must admit it is a marked improvement. And there is definitely room for expansion if warranted.
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 09:18:24am
You hit the nail on the head. "Expansion if warranted". Two ways of looking at it here. Would more come if it were a bigger college experience and seating or should we build more stands if they fill what we have.
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 09:31:29am
It would have to be fill what you have first. FYI, that press box was built with no planning or foresight. It is huge and takes up the majority of the seats at the 50.
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 08:18:48am
Last night, September 4th, I attended the Dukes-Pitt men's soccer game. (Results: 0-0 tie in 2 overtimes.) I sat in the same seats that I will have for the upcoming football season located in Section 3, Row C (the last row in this section). This is supposedly the premier section roughly spanning the 40 to 40 yard lines and located immediately in front of the press box. When I ordered these tickets, I was told that that each seat in this section would have seat backs, thus making them more comfortable than the bleacher seats used in the other sections of the field. Unfortunately the seat backs in Row C are mounted too close to the railing located immediately behind the row resulting in one's back pressed uncomfortably against the railing.
At the game I spoke to a gentleman who worked for the prime contractor or subcontractor on the Rooney Field Renovation Project. He said that the plastic seat backs were a last minute selection when it was discovered that the actual construction of this section was not consistent with the architect's plans for the seat backs. While I eventually was able to modify my normal sitting position in the seat to accommodate the railing, it is very disappointing that such a mistake was made. I believe that a possible remedy would be to remove the railing and remount it 3 to 4 inches back from the seat backs. If any of you Dukes' football fans are able to get to Rooney Field in the next few days, why not try out the seats in this section to see if you agree. I plan on bringing this to the Athletic Dept.'s attention.
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 09:35:53am
I will check it out and let you know. I usually attend a few soccer games a year and most football games.
I really wanted to make it to the DU Pitt game but could not.
Also, most of these board members love the current administration (almost to a fault) and gush over them repeatedly. I think they have done a good job, but the adoration with still no NCAA tournaments in any sports...well, I think the jury is still out. Usually, they will take offense to anything said negatively about the administration.
Just a friendly warning. Not so much here, but especially on the BB board.
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 06:45:46pm
I agree with your view of how the BB board views the administration, but they have promoted BB longer and louder than FB. We get a new field, but a tiny one. We get scholarships, but wipe out the marching band. We get a radio contract but only schedule 10 games. We move up in conference, but are still in the bottom two in all the BCS.
Still, it is a vast improvement over the past, so I'll feel gratefull.
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 09:25:25pm
Gosh, I really thought it was just me. There are certain subjects that are forbidden over there. And the elimination of the marching band (a foolish, short-sighted decision) is forbidden topic number one. I wonder if there will be a seated band for football. I know one was promised, but I have heard there is no band as of yet for football. I don't know if that is true, but as of Wednesday that is what I heard from a source.
And if there is, I certainly hope it is a different director than who lead the bb band last season. I have never witnessed a band director with less pep or interest in what he is doing. They made a horrible mistake in getting rid of the former band lady.
Why were only 10 football games scheduled? That puzzles me.
Anyone else interested in mens soccer team? We host the A-10s and have been a steady tourney qualifier. We were picked to miss the tourney by the A-10 coachs pool, but even when we made it we never got respect there. Will we finish in top six?
Another soccer question, why (and this has happened the last five years or so) are all the A-10 home games at beginning of season and then they finish the season with 5 or 6 straight road games. Last year, the played first 5 or 6 at home, remaining A-10 games at home. Other A-10 teams do not have this odd schedule.
Is Greg Annan (sp?) back to 100% after his injury? He was really doing well his junior year before getting injured and red-shirted. Any newcomers to look for?
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 10:02:09pm
Yes, Greg Annan is back. Based on last night's game, I'd say that he's quite the hustler. He was not credited with any shots on goal.
Curiously I heard a band practicing last night while at the soccer game. It played the Dukes' fight song among other selections. I couldn't see the musicians, but the music was coming from the direction of the music school.
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 10:30:08pm
I am glad that Greg is back. I saw him dominate a few games his junior year. He was clearly the best player on the field.
I am glad that the band is back and what I heard was wrong.
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 08:41:21am
I have long supported the opinion that men's basketball is king, but in order to sustain success there has to be a strong athletic program around it.
I still root hard for the Duchesses in basketball (when will DU bring back the right name for our women's programs) and of course football, which is actually the sport closest to my heart.
Can't remember how long ago it was, but I said once (and please, this is just my opinion) that it would be ideal if we had tournament/playoff teams in men's & women's basketball, football, baseball, wrestling, and men's & women's soccer. I think these are the most visible NCAA sports.
For the record, I'm in favor of a marching band for football. I know I didn't vocally support this when the change took place, but I did state my opinion back then on the board. Of course I lumped cheerleaders into the mix, but what the heck, I am a guy.
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 10:18:28am
For the non-revenue sports, what approach is best? We seem to try to fund all non-revenue equally. (I am saying that from an outside perspective.) It seems like all the other A-10 schools pick a minor sport and go really hard at it and support it.
LaSalle constantly wins cross-country.
St. Louis has nationally ranked soccer programs.
St. Bonaventure wins swimming all the time.
Dayton owns women's volleyball.
Is our approach wrong, should we pick one or two of the other sports (perhaps those that ED mentioned) and just fund those to the max and perhaps cut something? I dont like to see anything cut, but I am just throwing that out there.
It seems that we are now competitive across the board, but no a champion in any sports. Thoughts?
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 06:35:50pm
El Duque, I have always referred to all of the Duquesne women's (girl's might be more appropriate given my age) teams as the Duchesses. Unlike many other team mascots, the word "Dukes" has a very appropriate feminine version, "Duchesses." In my opinion it is not demeaning and with a single word clearly distinguishes between the male and female teams. No need for such references as "Lady Dukes," seemingly a contradiction in terms. I believe the dropping of the official use of "Duchesses" was seen as politically correct at the time (probably in the 1980s).
The only way the university might consider going back to using "Duchesses" would be if a filthy rich Duquesne Alum (if there is such a person) were to make a contribution of $1 or $2 million to the women's athletic programs conditioned on the return to the official use of "Duchesses." This seems very unlikely. However, there's nothing wrong with our continued use of "Duchesses" on this chat line.
Date Posted:Sunday, September 07, 09:35:44am
They should be able to more a railing 4 inches for a "premium" seat. I know that they really had to shoe-horn the field into a parking lot, but 4 inches??
Maybe the legend of Collery pacing out the old parking lot should include that his calculations were 4 inches short.
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 11:49:32pm
Good Halftime Interview at Bucknell. Alex interviewed Greg Amodio. He said that there has been $4 million put into Rooney Field. Amodio seems to be on top of things. Check out the Golf event at Treesdale and the new tailgate area by Mellon Hall. The broadcast has been first class so far even if the game has been depressing!
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 07:38:08pm
Interesting how Amodio has now turned tailgating into a money making venture. Now I understand why he was so upset that we used to organize tailgates at the games and was instrumental in closing them down by using the campus police to rope off that section of parking.
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 11:49:32pm
Congrats to Alex P. That was a first class broadcast.
And 1360 has to "power down" at 6pm due to FCC rules. There signal in the day is much more powerful and you should not have those signal problems in most of Allegheny County with 1360. Most of the games are played in the day.
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 05:10:57pm
I've been thinking about the Duquesne Athletic Program overall and I have a few random thoughts.
1. Greg Amodio is overall one of the best guys to come along for the Department. He is bright and works hard.
2. He doesn't have the advantages that our cross town rivals have in $, fan support or facilities, or even what he had at Xavior.
3. He does seem to have support from administration. Something he has to work hard to keep. Someone posted an article from SI on Mossie Murphy and is shows how far we've come from almost discouraging the athletic department and roudy school spirit.
4. He does seem to take an approach to grow the entire line-up of sports. I beleve we've made tremendous progress in sports like soccer and many others that come to mind. BB will always be king untill FB starts to fill the new stands.
5. He hires good people and works to keep them. Getting Suzie hired and Ron rehired is huge. No disrespect to Jerry Schmitt, but had Amadio been here to give Greg Gatuso the scholarship support and a picture of the renovations he may have stayed.
6. Jerry Schmitt now has an opportuniy to match Gatuso at a higher level with the scholarships. He may not do it this year. He has only a handful of Seniors and a huge crop of Freshmen.
7. Salary limits may have forced him to hire a very young coaching staff. Many are on their first assignment as coaches. I hope being a great player can always make you a good coach.
8. I've always complained about the limited size of the field expansion. Somewhere in the higher University Administration, someone is afraid of ruining the view of the Mon. But, if we can start filling the seats, one day we may have another expansion.
9. I would like to see a marching band again. We attract too made kids to our music program not to take advantage of it. To quote an old band parent, "Without the half-time show- its just a football game"
10. Overall, the administration deserves our support. They work hard and they need us as much as we need them. I've been guilty of being a bit cynical from past dissapointments. Cynics don't accomplish much.
If you are still reading this, you must be a real Duquesne fan- Spread the word about this board and the new radio contract etc. Bring a friend to the games.
Well, on this the first day of the new era of scholarship football- LETS GO DUKES!!!!!!!
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 04:04:25pm
Coffee, there are more Duke fans than you realize. Things are looking up. Thanks for your encouragement!
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 05:10:57pm
Just a thought on Gattusso, and I don't know the man so this isn't inside stuff: I think he put heart and soul into the program here, but because of his pedigree I think he's wired for a bigger and better job.
It would have been IDEAL to have him here for the transition to a scholarship program. He had some big-time players as it was without that advantage.
But I think the lure of a job at Pitt would have eventually been too much to resist.
I think he would have been a better choice than Wankerstadt, who has not proven he can be the top dog at any level. I wonder how long before he gets a BCS head job?
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 04:34:16pm
We'll be going up early in the morning and was wondering if anyone was planning on tailgating. Early forecast is for thunderstorms and a high near 80. Go Dukes!!!
Date Posted:Tuesday, September 02, 10:49:38pm
Shaler Tom- We used to have quite a group of Duquesne fans from up that way- Lehigh Valley Dukes- I wonder if any of them are left??
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 03:05:38pm
No sir, sorry. All the Lehigh Valley Dukes have graduated and the recruiters don't seem to have much interest in coming down our way any more. For the record, 2 ex-Dukes (Phil Polony & Jeremy McCullough) are now coaching at Moravian College so the Lehigh Valley Dukes are now the "Lehigh Valley Greyhounds !!!" Also for the record we were stopped from tailgating by Mellon Hall so everything kind of faded out at the end of the 2007 season. However, I still check in to see what is going on and I will definitely be listening to Alex P on the radio.
Date Posted:Saturday, September 06, 04:34:16pm
We've have come full circle- Note the seating chart at the bottom of the page- They have officially made the area a tailgate area.
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 07:05:21pm
You heard it here first. Dukes win 28-21. No running game, but a few long passes to bring Duquesne back from a small half time defecit.
Date Posted:Friday, September 05, 07:02:48pm
The game notes are now out for the BUcknell game with a lot of surprises...at least to me.
1.) Still no firm decision at QB, listed as an "OR" situation.
2.)Williams now relieved of his return duties.
3.)The defensive backfield is very young outside of Strader, going with a soph and 2 freshmen
4.)The D-Line has been shuffled.
5.) Highly touted Anthony Rhoades is no longer listed on the 2 deep chart...injury maybe?
Date Posted:Thursday, September 04, 03:07:37pm
I'll predict Conner Dixon as the starter even though it is hard to replace someone who did so well last year. Patterson has the chance to be a GOOD quarterback. Kevin Rombaugh has the chance to be a VERY GOOD quarterback. Conner Dixon has a chance to be GREAT. I think the biggest difference seems to be the mobility Dixon showed in the IUP scrimmage.
The Dukes NEED solid line play to face Bucknell. This was always the issue when we played any Patriot League team.
Date Posted:Thursday, September 04, 07:16:00pm
Obviously the IUP scrimmage played a huge role in determining who the Duke's QB would be. I feel bad for Kevin in that he played so well last year but with an inexperienced line and one that will probably allow alot of pressure, Dixon is the logical choice. He's much more fleet-footed and will buy time on rollouts. I'm also pretty confident that we'll see his speed on bootlegs. Lets hope that both boys can contribute while the OL matures. Small steps folks! Go Dukes!!!
Date Posted:Thursday, September 04, 03:22:57pm
Post-Gazette article today said that Conner Dixon is the starter. I went to the last game at Bucknell and it poured and Bucknell won on last play of the game.
Date Posted:Thursday, September 04, 04:17:57pm
Let's hope whomever plays gets some protection. The articles I read about the qb's running for their lives is scary!
Date Posted:Wednesday, September 03, 08:15:29am
The CAA (Former A-10) Football Conference is perhaps the BEST conference in the BCS. Monmouth came within a field goal of beating Rhode Island and Albany lost by 12 to UMASS but outgained them in total yards after being up early on them. Good news- The Dukes conference is MUCH better than the MAAC. Bad news- The Dukes are going to have a bigger challenge winning this conference.
Date Posted:Sunday, August 31, 12:25:48pm
I saw a score flash on the TV that said Bryant (not in the conference, but on the schedule) had given UConn a game too, but it turned out to be USC (University of Southern CT) or some such school.
I am excited for the Bucknell game. I think our staff will use the IUP scrimmage to make some needed changes, and we'll be ready to go.
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 10:30:37am
Albany outgains UMASS and forces them to come back to win at UMASS. They are the #5 team in the nation and don't lose often there. UMASS can beat about half of the D-1 teams. The NEC is deffinately on its way up and the Dukes must prepare better than they did at IUP. URI did jump out on Monmouth before Monmouth came back strong.
If Pitt can lose to Bowling Green, they may WANT to open against the Dukes once the Dukes get up to speed with scholarship players if they are looking for a tune up game at the beginning of the season that they can win. How many more scholarships do the Dukes have to offer to make the game count for Pitt?
Within 10 years, we may open the year at Pitt and close at RMU with some city games.
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 10:36:18am
My only wish is that Greg Gatuso were still here to lead us into this. He built the program without the same support that Amodio is giving. Jerry is a great guy, but still has a bit to prove that he can take the Dukes to glory. I hope he can do it.
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 10:51:17am
Too bad Stony Brook didn't stick with the NEC. They handled Colgate pretty well 42-26.
Duquesne must do 2 things- Fix the o-line and get a running game to keep the pass rush guessing. Too much passing has our guys back on their heals. I guess I'm a typical steel city football fan- control the lines of scrimmage above all!!!!!!
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 11:56:58am
Coffee- I agree that's why I as thinking we need to redshirt as many skilled players as possible. Without the O/L its going to be tough to do too much with those young guys, let their bodies get another year so they dont take a beating. Patience is going to be the key because now we are a conference game for these NEC foes. It was our super bowl before and their non league game. We arent sneaking up on anybody.
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 09:39:40pm
I've always thought that redshirting should be done on a case by case and position by position basis. Sometimes it backfires when it ties up a scholarship particularly when we gave out such a large number of our limited amount in the first year. Jerry will have to start thinking out a strategy here that he never had to do before with scholarships.
Date Posted:Tuesday, September 02, 01:33:25am
Good Point, I am sure they have a plan. It just seems to me that this year we cannot make the playoffs and are a real longshot for the NEC. Nothing like having seasoned scholarship players who know the system. It will be interesting to see what strategy the staff uses.
Date Posted:Tuesday, September 02, 01:47:37pm
I just noticed that J.T. Stefanik, the starting LT from last season is no longer on the roster. Based on the performance of the OL in the scrimmage, that doesn't seem to bode well.
Date Posted:Tuesday, September 02, 10:46:18pm
Good catch- He was a rock. I hope I'm wrong, but I posted a big concern about the lack of size from the incomming scholarship players when the class was announced.
Date Posted:Tuesday, September 02, 11:06:44am
I don't think it changes anything with the Football broadcasts, but WPTT is now WMNY 1360. Alex will have to record a few new promos for the broadcasts. Alex- any changes to the agreement? Their new web site isn't going up until tomorrow. The new format is money and finance... maybe a sports segment???
Date Posted:Monday, September 01, 05:19:58pm
I heard the promo for the Dukes on WMNY today. It is the same as the old- just with the new call letters so I guess the radio deal is still good.
Date Posted:Sunday, August 31, 10:32:56am
It was a good feeling to finally delete the link to the old MAAC Football Conference, but it was also kind of like saying goodbye to an old friend who is a lovable pain in the but.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 30, 11:11:48pm
It is just a thought, but since Duquesne is now in the NEC, is there a desire or even a possibility to petition the league to establish Duquesne/Rober Morris as a rivalry game and put it on the end of the schedule every year perhaps eventually with a league championship or playoff berth on the line. It would be a great way to bring alumni back and establish some undergrad intensity over time.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 30, 12:28:29pm
I agree totally- I've always thought that the game should be played at the end of the year. Who else would be our most natural rival in football?
Date Posted:Saturday, August 30, 11:11:48pm
This about the sixth time this idea has come up on this board. I wonder if anybody associated with Duquesne other than Alex P. reads this board?
Date Posted:Saturday, August 30, 12:31:03pm
I just got home from work- At the half of the scrimmage the Dukes are down 17-7. Dixon started and played the first half. He was poorly protected. Rombaugh starts the second half and is sacked on the first play. O-Line needs work!
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 07:13:29pm
Rombaugh sacked twice on his first series and IUP scores on its first play of the second half. Dukes down 24-7.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 07:17:50pm
This is my first season follwoing Duquesne football. It is really ugly out there especially on the O-Line. The depth chart shows 3 out of 5 starters on the line returning. What appears to be the problem? Poor lineplay will render all the skill position useless.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 08:52:12pm
Not much you can say about this one except that if we don't shore up our offensive line we're going to get our QBs killed. It seemed that on every play, IUP was in the backfield. Dixon, with his speed and ability to move in the pocket was able to buy some time and make a few plays but Kevin, a little less mobile had no chance. Dixon probably played a little better but forced some balls. One thing is for sure, if it hadn't been for the quick whistles designed to protect the QB, Kevin would have been drilled at least ten times. Dixon would have taken some shots too. It's a good thing we're deep at QB. We might need all of them.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 09:32:05pm
Thats for sure. You better have a QB that can move if the OL is going to protect like that. Did we even try to run the ball????? IUP was coming on every play. The only bright spot offensively was the 40 yard scoring drive at the end of the first half but even then, Dixon was running for his life.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 11:04:50pm
Didnt get a chance to listen but it sounds ugly on the boards. Did the freshman RB,QB,WR play? I hope none of them played because there goes the red-shirts at skilled positions.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 11:20:54pm
Can anyone fill me in on IUP's team? Please tell me they are very, very good. I wasn't expecting this much of a lopsided affair. What division are they in? Did they have a lot of experienced players?
Date Posted:Friday, August 29, 09:21:42am
IUP is a very, very good Division 2 football team which often makes runs in the NCAA playoffs. In all fairness, they also give the maximum # of scholarships (30) allowed by Division 2. According to the halftime interview with Coach Schmitt, that is the same # the NEC allows and based on some complicated formula, Duquesne had not given their full 18 scholarship limit often noted for this year. According to the initial depth chart,other than LG and Center, the OL is the same as last year and much of the rush came from the outside. Unless we develop a running game and quickly, everyone will be pinning their ears back and rushing our QBs this year.
Date Posted:Friday, August 29, 08:47:06pm
One quote- Their 1's were better than our 2's. Starting Dixon and showing his mobility under pressure may give him the edge over Kevin.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 30, 09:41:51am
Coffee, did we play reserves? I'm not sure how to understand that quote (badly needed three day weekend at hand brain).
Date Posted:Saturday, August 30, 12:31:03pm
If I heard correctly, we played mostly our 2nd string to see where they would fit in during the scrimmage. This make me feel a bit better about the outcome.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 08:52:24pm
I AM A FORMER DUQUESNE FOOTBALL PLAYER. I LOVE TO SEE THAT SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE THE LOVE FOR DUQUESNE FOOTBALL AS I DO. YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB! MY QUESTION IS, HAS ANYONE HAVE AN UPDATE ON BRUCE HOCKER? WHERE IS HE PLAYING NOW?
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 27, 05:46:33pm
I thought I had seen something about Bruce signing with an arena team, but I can't find anything. Welcome aboard. I look forward to your comments and inputs as a former player.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 01:16:22pm
I have it the same as you Coffee. I am picking them over the Bison for the same reason El Duque is picking Bucknell. Bucknell will be very young and inexperienced this year. I also think it may be easier for newcomers to adjust without the glare of a home game.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 08:52:24pm
I defer to you fine gentlemen on Bucknell. The Bison have beaten us pretty badly the past few seasons, that's what I was thinking about.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 28, 10:55:13am
Tonights IUP scrimmage will be broadcast on Red Zone Media. It will begin with a pre-game show at 5:15pm with kick-off at 5:30pm. It will be the IUP broadcasters doing the game. Jack Benedict does a great job, and you should enjoy the broadcast. I won't be there, but will be listening as well..
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 27, 01:13:10pm
The Post-Gazette has a couple of nice articles on Duquesne football today. The first one has a quick glance an the impact of the freshman class, indicating that as many as 3 may be starting with several more on the depth chart.
The second article focuses on Greg Hough. The young man certainly seems to have his head screwed on right and plays a mean linebacker too.
Best of luck to Greg and all the Dukes this season.
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 27, 05:41:23pm
Sigh. I know I should be appreciative of anything Axelrod does for DU, but how do you write an article about newcomers cracking the "two-deep" and fail to mention a single one, outside of Dixon?
But it is good that the stories are being written.
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 27, 01:05:36pm
Are the Dukes going to be wearing Adidas gear this year? Also, did they shut down the web cam? I haven't been able to see anything.Thanks.
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 27, 07:09:25am
I always root for 10-0 (or however many we play-and-oh) but I figure with all the new stuff going on this year plus new players at the still positions we might stumble a little early. I see 6-4 this year, but a big second half that sets us up for a major run at the conference title next year. I won't be surprised if the Iron Dukes well surpass this prediciton, and I will be shocked with anything less than a winning season.
We just have too much talent (albeit young) and a solid coaching staff.
09/06 at Bucknell L (lot of new players getting acclimated)
09/20 vs. Saint Francis, Pa. W (big bounce back at home)
09/27 vs. Dayton L (even game, but a break or two goes against us)
10/04 vs. Albany L (we don’t match up well on the line … yet)
10/11 at Robert Morris W (we own Tiger Walton and his team)
10/18 at Central Connecticut State W (I see this getting lopsided quickly)
10/25 vs. Sacred Heart (Homecoming) W (big crowd gets the juices flowing)
11/01 at Bryant W (big effort by the defense)
11/08 at Wagner L (controversial play at the end of the game steals a win from us)
11/15 vs. Monmouth W (nice frosty day in the ‘burgh, shore boys don’t adapt)
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 27, 11:11:06am
Way to go El Duque! I share your optimism, and think there are good surprises in store for all Duke fans. Best for our opponents to underestimate us :) Can't wait for the fun.
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 26, 09:22:57am
Anyone have a sense of who is emerging as starters and who the top back-ups will be? How is the competition going at QB and TB?
Date Posted:Sunday, August 24, 06:36:07pm
The last I talked to any of the coaches, they were still looking at candidates. Rombaugh and Williams are still listed as starters. Rombaugh, Dixon and Patterson were all making the coaches happy at QB. I don't think any announcements will come out until the week before the Bucknell game. Schmitt showed he isn't afraid to change his mind last year to bring in Rombaugh when Knapp stumbled a bit.
This would make a great question to Schmitt's new call-in show!
Date Posted:Sunday, August 24, 08:26:43pm
I have to think that Kevin will get the start but that's only my opinion. Connor Dixon looks fantastic from what I've observed at the practices I've been to and will see some time for sure. By seasons end, who knows?
Another kid who looks awesome is Akeem Moore, DB from Brentwood. This kid is the real deal and has tremendous closing speed. A little raw on coverage but his speed puts him back in the play.
Tyler Scruggs has found a home at D End and it wouldn't surprise me if this kid starts. He's been taking reps with the first team and is on special teams as well.
Classes start on Monday so the IUP scrimmage will tell us alot.
Date Posted:Sunday, August 24, 10:39:47pm
I personally would like to see us red shirt as many of the talented freshman we can (if we can get by with who already is there) If we can get these young RB's and QB's to learn the system and not burn any eligibility in the long term that is the best scenario. By all accounts we are not going to the playoffs this year anyway. With the currrent upperclassmen and othr players we will compete well enough in the NEC.
Date Posted:Monday, August 25, 09:16:24pm
Shoey, how would that work with the scholarships? Are we adding a certain number each year until we hit the max?
Date Posted:Monday, August 25, 11:31:20pm
The way I understand the scholarship situation is each year we are bringing in X amount. It wont effect next years class in any way. Most D1 programs redshirt I am sue there is a formula but a scholarship would be wasted if you play a RB or QB for 1 play in a game. I am not a expert but I am sure the staff has a plan. We will know soon because I dont believe any of the young Dukes can be red shirted if they play in the scrimmage this week. According to NCAA rules that game counts toward eligibility.
Date Posted:Monday, August 25, 11:35:40pm
I was going to ask the same question. I will assume that they will eventually work toward the max. In a scholarship program. Fifth year scollies will likely take away from succeeding year availability unless they agree to pay for the last year. My philosophy for a program of this size is if you can use the player in any capacity including special teams, do so. The future is so unpredictable with injuries etc
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 26, 09:22:57am
I disagree at a program this size it is more important to red shirt so you maximize the scholarship. Not all players will stay (for whatever reason) and the numbers themselves will work out. It is more important to have players ready and be able to step in when you are limited and are playing against teams who are already red shirting players. It's common sense if you can get a player to learn the system for a year and get the kinks out their freshman year they are going to be a much better asset to the program. Football is so much different than any other sport when it comes to redshirting.
[> Subject: Further comments on Bucknell. Patriot League Preseason Poll Results (see inside). Bucknell is predicted to finish 6th out of the 7 team conference.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 23, 02:13:29pm
Sagarin's new pre-season 2008 ranks the Dukes at 221 of 245 Division 1 programs. He also ranks the NEC slightly ahead of the Pioneer Conference.
By his numbers, with home field advantage, Bucknell is a 7 point favorite.
Date Posted:Sunday, August 24, 01:16:33pm
I'll take the Dukes and the points if not an outright win. Duquesne has always played this one close. Bucknell is forcast for a down year and the Dukes have some size and speed from the new scholarship players. It will be VERY interesting how many new players have taken over starting jobs.
Author:
Kitty Kat Duke (ready for some football)
[Edit]
Date Posted:Sunday, August 24, 12:16:45am
Hey All, does anyone know if there will be a scrimmage today? Will I be able to watch it on the webcam? Happy Birthday to me... I am now officially old enough to stop counting. :)
Date Posted:Saturday, August 23, 05:59:58pm
According to the media guide the capacity of the "newly renovated" Rooney Field is 2,200. That compares to 4,500 before renovations. Since I have no life whatsoever I stopped by the field and walked the bleachers. I counted room for 846 butts !!!! I guess the remaining 1,354 of the capacity is people sat on the concete bleachers by academic walk or stood round the barriers. I guess I am confused but I would have thought that moving to the NEC is a step up and we would want room for more spectators not cut the capacity by 50%. Just a thought. Oh by the way, where are the tailgates going to be ????
Date Posted:Saturday, August 23, 05:36:57pm
I'm not sure 4,500 was accurate either. I know the AD has done quite a bit for the program, but just a few more rows from endzone to endzone on both sides of the field would have been great. Is it my imagination or has the field shifted a few yards away from the press box? centering the field would have allowed for a few more rows on the Academic Walk side. Do the new stands take out the parking along Bluff Street? With the garages, we certainly could have taken out these spaces to add a few more rows on that side too.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 23, 05:59:58pm
The field has always been a bit off centered towards Academic walk due to having to give some room to the endzone in front of the pool. Coffee is right. The stands could have been built out over the parking spaces to almost double the rows on that side. The Academic Walk side seems to be maxed out unless we cut into the walk itself. If we ever get to filling the seats we could add some temps there during the season. A few more stands can be squeezed into the corners and endzone areas where there aren't buildings right up against the field.
It would have been creative to not only take the parking on Bluff Street and run Bluff Street under more higher stands if the hill would hold it.
Tailgate Area?-- See the map at the bottom of the page on this site.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 23, 12:19:28pm
See this link for Duquesne's Listing under US News & World Report's Nationally Ranked Universities- http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/college/national-search/page+6 I don't believe we were in the Top Tier before. As much as we follow the sports, the most important thing a university can give is stil a great education.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 23, 12:02:55pm
There is a discussion on this on the Basketball Board too. The Official Duquesne Site is calling it Tier 2 see- http://www.newsroom.duq.edu/r20080822-usnews.html . Officially there is no Tier 2, just "Top Ranked National Universities". We just made it so it will take continued work to stay.
Congrats to the University officials, faculty, students and staff who made it happen. This is GREAT news for all Dukes!
Date Posted:Saturday, August 23, 12:19:28pm
CMU is usually in the Top 20- They are at #22 with a score of 75.. Pitt is at #58 with a score of 51. Duquesne's #130 scored at 32. I was paging down to see where some of the other local school came in and noticed that Duquesne ranked higher than some VERY impressive national universities!
Date Posted:Thursday, August 21, 10:08:10pm
Only one Duquesne opponant made the TSN Pre-Season Poll. Dayton didn't crack the Top 25, but did get votes. Albany really should have and will if they manage to win some given the qulaity of who they are playing.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 21, 10:08:10pm
Actually both Dayton (6) and Albany (4)did get votes. A win over both or either will likely draw some recognition but first there is a Bucknell team which we need to beat.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 21, 03:53:44pm
I don't know if the Clearinghouse rules would be different for DU than Purdue, but if you could bring the kid mentioned at the end of this article into the program, you might have the next great defensive player at DU. Click here.
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 20, 12:22:05am
The Athletic Department just posted the '08 Media Guide. I'll have to print it out to read in the library,
Date Posted:Saturday, August 16, 12:35:24pm
It's been up for a week now, but for the past week I have been unable to read past page 4...anyone else experiencing this?
Date Posted:Wednesday, August 20, 12:22:05am
At first glance:
Cash Cortazzo, Robert Dray,Ben Fraudin, Nate Kriger and Anthony Petricini who were all on the media guide roster as of 6/27 are no longer listed.
Recent additions: Tyler Scruggs, Josh Hodges9LB, Lakeview,FL) and Brandon Davis WR(1st team AS Virginia A)
Other notable absentee:Trezley Lockhart Listed in the Recruiting Class with amazing stats but not on either roster.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 16, 10:16:34am
I heard from a reliable source that the scrimmage that was to be held today is canceled. I'm told that there are too many bumps and bruises. No specific names mentioned.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 16, 10:31:47am
Oh well- I know that the scrimmage on the 28th should take place. It is pretty well advertized and should even be broadcast on Redzone- Click on the Redzone link on this site.
Date Posted:Friday, August 15, 08:35:09pm
Great Promos Alex!!!
You've been calling the action for the Duke for a few years now. How does this year measure up for pre-season excitement? The Dukes may have dominated their conference in years past, but it seems to me that people on this board at least would rather see us challenged by Albany than amused by St. Peters.
Date Posted:Saturday, August 16, 08:05:01am
Coffee, of course you can link the promos. Hard to beleive it's going to be my 14h season at Duquesne! I am excited about the prospect of playing in the NEC. It seems that the Dukes have not received respect from the other coaches. I guess they just have to prove it on the field. Can't wait!
Date Posted:Friday, August 15, 08:56:07pm
Alex- I love the promos too- I just don't know what the first couple word are on the shorter promo Is it "Pittsburgh see ya later!"
Date Posted:Friday, August 15, 08:52:40pm
It's nice to see the positive vibe around DU football. Coach Schmitt has taken some lumps the past couple years that I think have been unfair. I'd love to see the Iron Dukes roll through their first NEC season undefeated but there are some tough programs in the conference.
But I get the sense that we have more of the "smashmouth" type kids on the roster that made thr program successful in the past.
Would love to see the Dukes schedule games at Lafayette or Lehigh in the future. Would also like to see a BCS team on the schedule at some point. Maybe a Temple, or Army, or Pitt. You know, a winnable game!
Great job by MR. COFFEE on this board. Yes, MR. COFFEE. You sir, are a real fan. PS, if you've never had it, Guatemalan coffee is the smoothest stuff yo can find.
Date Posted:Sunday, August 10, 09:27:37am
Stony Brook has an FBS team on its schedule the next 3 years, but I personally think we need to start scheduling the top tier FCS schools, ie the CAA before talking about scheduling a Temple.
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 12:33:56pm
Depends on what you're trying to achieve. If your goal is to incrementally put DU football on the map, then yeah, you're right.
But if you just want to take a cheap shot at the Oakland Wankers ...
Date Posted:Sunday, August 10, 10:08:01am
ED- Thanks for the kind words. It takes a real fan like yourelf to appreciate the art, eh? Its easy being a Dukes fan these days when you're an alum and have been aware of how great the program can be after sufferring through so many down years. Basketball, football and the entire department are on the way up. As much as I've bee critical over the size of the field expansion and the lack of a half-time band for football, I'm really glad Amodio is here. He and the staff have done a wonderful job!
I think in a few years the Patriot League will be playing "sideways" not "up" since we've proven we can play even. The last few games vs them and the Ivy league were winnable except forthe Penn game. Even then we hung around longer than some of their other victims.
I think we could have hung with Temple before their improvement last year. Sagarin rankings showed as much. In a few years we may be able to take on Buffalo or Kent State or Temple. Putupyourdukes is right to call for a few games vs the CAA/A-10 brothers first even though the football played in the CAA is better than many of the low 1-A programs.
Albany is doing it right. Albany and Duquesne will be a big game some day.
I would have loved to have Duquesne, Dayton, La Salle and Fordham be the core of a new A-10 Scholarship Football program with Marist, Iona and some other before the MAAC collasped.
I'm not really a coffee fanatic. The moniker stuck when I got into a discussion with some friends over the merits of JUST PLAIN COFFEE over all the blends like weasel-nut and fluffy-sweet-pudding-pie.
Did you notice the Coffee Mug Award Nominations at the end of the page?
Date Posted:Sunday, August 10, 10:18:13am
Right on the button. We only play 10 games this year and wouldn't qualify for the FCS palyoffs since we only play one game vs a current playoff league. I'd love to see a game vs Rhode Island, UMass or Richmond.
Date Posted:Sunday, August 10, 10:37:26am
Good commentary about the new leadership in the Athletic Department. Football, both Basketball, Soccer, Baseball, Track and Field and others are all taking huge steps. I've never known the Dukes to have as good a track athlete as Slosky. He and another steplechase runner did pretty well recently. see- http://goduquesne.cstv.com/sports/m-track/recaps/060208aab.html . Stosky is running against some of the same guys now in Beiging.
I'd love to see an NCAA hockey program playing at the new arena. It would give the Pens some scouting advantages if the Dukes schedule some good teams. Add softball for Title 9.
By the way, where do the Dukes run their Track program? I don't see a track on the outside of Rooney- probably not enough room.
Date Posted:Sunday, August 10, 01:31:53pm
I appreciate your effort and feedback on this board. I hope your enthusiasm is contageous. This will truly be a transitional year for Duquesne football, one in which we may find out how far we progressed. Although I would schedule an 11th game against a formidable opponent at their stadium if only for the revenue dollars, I think this year's schedule will be quite revealing. Remember Bucknell and Brown were by no means the elite of the Patriot and Ivy league respectively, hanging with them does not mean the Dukes are ready yet for CAA teams....but perhaps in a few short years.
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 12:53:20pm
Yes sir, and while flattered I understand why many others would demand a recount. I'm not sure if you or TMH is the BoardMeister or if you're co-Meisters so apologies if I offended anyone.
Throwing the idea of playing a full scholarship program out there was basically just some "tough talk" from a fan (kind of like declaring your dad can whip another dad; not sure if "Pop" appreciates being pitted against the neighborhood Andre the Giant). A few years ago, when Gattusso was here and Schiano had not been hired by Rutgers, I believed DU would've played the Scarlet Knights evenly at worst. Same for Temple. I probably wouldn't want to see my guys on the field against those schools right now.
In a couple years, maybe pick out a weakling just for a good pay day. Who knows after that?
I had the same thought about a new A-10 conference. I had actually wished out loud that we would've made the move to some scholarships a few years ago, and try to move into the A-10. Hofstra beat us to the punch.
I think the best model for "growing" a program has to be UConn. Man, I love the way those guys work. They're good at everything. Granted, state school vs. private, etc. But they really get the job done. We still have something they don't: a couple Orange Bowl wins (certainly the first appearance it wasn't yet called by that name).
Final thought for now: I like and support GA in everything. I agree that football demands a marching band (and cute cheerleaders), and the pep band thing bugs me. I think he'll eventually come around. I also appreciate the growth of the so-called minor sports. Not to sound like a jerk, but I put the emphasis on basketball-women's BB-football first, wrestling-volleyball-baseball in the second tier, and other stuff after that. No offense to anyone or any other sport -- I do root for DU in everything (even rowing, which I just don't get).
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 03:53:20pm
ED- The blame for this board belongs to me, but I couldn't be happier with the way real Duquesne fans have joined in after being started just before the last game of the year last year.
My daughter actually deserves more credit that me for the board's layout. I used to be able to teach her things, but at 16 she knows more about computers that I ever will.
If you are at the football games, stop by section 3 Seat A-2
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 05:10:14pm
I want to try to get to the homecoming game. There's a 60th anniversary for the school of journalism, which is the only thing that could get me to homecoming on consecutive years (my 30th anniversary is 2010).
Wow, 30 years. Some of my classmates must be getting old.
Date Posted:Thursday, August 14, 12:40:14pm
Is your comment about never attending homecoming on consecutive years predicated on your dissatisfaction or disinterest with DU's homecoming gatherings in general, lack of time from your busy schedule, or distance you are living from Pittsburgh? I've been to several homecomings recently and found them to be well run and entertaining. There are several free events for this year's homecoming, including a breakfast on Saturday morning at Mellon Hall lobby and a pre-game lunch at one of the tents set up along Academic Walk. Go to the DU website, click on alumni, and then events. That should get you to the homecoming site and allow you to register for each event that weekend which you might want to attend outside of the Dukes' football game. I hope you and other contributors to the Dukes' Football Forum are able to make it there in October.
Date Posted:Friday, August 15, 01:20:24pm
It's mostly a function of living in NJ and having other obligations (church, family, home, job, other things). I've been to homecoming several times, mostly to celebrate a graduation milestone, and usually bring my wife and daughters. For the past seven years we've been somewhat restricted by my wife's illness; she's had three bouts of cancer and all of the tests and treatments that go with it (thanks to God, she is OK right now). But she loves the trip and I'm certainly planning on bringing her this year. Her health would be the only thing that would prevent me from coming this year.
I have nothing but good things to say about homecoming. Always a lot of great events, and I've been fortunate to bump into old friends and classmates many times. Also started a new tradition this year with a friend (also a DU grad), making a pilgrimage for a basketball game. Even that turned into a mini-reunion as we bumped into a bunch of ex-Playboys (social club that's been kicked off campus), including the dad of DU BB player David Theis.
Date Posted:Friday, August 15, 04:29:07pm
El Duque,
Given your circumstances, I can see that getting up to the Bluff is not just the short jaunt it is for me as I live in the City of Pittsburgh. In light of your situation, your loyalty to the Dukes can not be solely judged on your attendance at games played at Rooney field or the Polumbo. You are clearly a die-hard fan! I do, however, hope that you are able to make it to Duquesne's campus for homecoming and the Dukes' football game this year.
Date Posted:Friday, August 15, 08:52:40pm
Always a Duke- El Duque has been a regular on this board since its start last year and even more on the Basketball Board. He is a great fan (See Coffe Mug Awards at the botto of this page).
He is often a clear voice of reason and love for Duquesne! (as are you)
Date Posted:Thursday, August 14, 03:21:31pm
I'd love to see some FBS (D1-A) schools like Pitt & Army on the schedule too, but the school (and the NEC) needs to raise the # of scholarships offered high enough to make the game a "counter", a game that counts towards bowl eligibility for the big programs, otherwise the incentive for them to play us is greatly diminished. Central Conn. really got a steal when Western Mich agreed to play them because the game did not count towards WMU's win total to be bowl eligible.
Date Posted:Friday, August 15, 01:41:52pm
The NCAA allows one victory against an FCS team as long as the FCS team has issued 57 full scholarships over the past two years. This is 90% of the 63 limit for FCS schools.
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 03:58:18pm
My picks:
1. Albany
2. Monmouth
3. Duquesne
4. Central Conn. State
5. Sacred Heart
6. Robert Morris
7. Wagner
8. St. Francis
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 04:48:10pm
I just perused the Sporting News preseason edition and Duquesne is projected to be 4th behind Albany,Cent. Conn and Monmouth. I love the fact that many are taking Duquesne lightly. This season could be quite intriguing and put a perspective on now only where they are..but where they are going.
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 03:46:24pm
Kevin deserves the nod but either he or Dixon would be number 1 for both the Dukes and the NEC. This one will be interesting.
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 05:37:30pm
It sure will be interesting to see how this plays out. My opinion is that they will go with Kevin to start the season and slowly work Connor into the mix. By seasons end, I think we might see a duel role position which would be awesome given the athletic ability of both kids.
Date Posted:Tuesday, August 12, 09:42:40am
If you click on the webcam at the right time, you can watch snippets of practice. I watched this morning. Of course, it is just snapshots. I watched soccer team for a while yesterday.
Date Posted:Monday, August 11, 07:58:58pm
I don't know why my computer doesn't get the picture. It has a tiny x in te top left corner. Do I need to install a program to be able to see the feed?
~2007 COFFEE MUG NOMINATIONS~
Player of the Year 2007 Offense- Bruce Hocker
Player of the Year 2007 Defense- Derron Thomas
Non-Player of the Year- Greg Amodio
Past Player- Boyd Brumbaugh, 1936
Past Non-Player of the Year- Elmer Layden
Fan of the Year- El Duque
~2008 COFFEE MUG NOMINATIONS~
Player of the Year 2008 Offense- Sean Bunevich
Player of the Year 2008 Defense- Chidozie Oparanozie
Non-Player of the Year- Alex Pamormius
Past Player- Buff Donelli, 1936
Past Non-Player of the Year- Greg Gatuso
Fan of the Year- Shaler Tom
~THE COFFEE CUP~
2007- Duquesne 17-14 over Robert Morris
2008- Robert Morris 34-27 over Duquesne
~2009 NORTHEAST CONFERENCE FOOTBALL TELEVISION SCHEDULE~
~ROONEY FIELD FOOTBALL SEATING CHART~
(ORDER DUQUESNE SEASON OR GAME TICKETS AT 412-232-DUKE)
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~Duquesne 7 Pitt 0, at Pitt Stadium~
~1919 Duquesne Football Team~
Art Rooney- Row 2, 6 from left, Brother Dan Rooney- Row 2, 2 from left.
~1930 Duquesne Ticket (First Full Season at Forbes Field)~
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Duquesne Athletics and Administration
Re: Game Notes-Bucknell
Bittersweet Task- OFFICIAL GOODBYE TO THE MAAC
Scrimmage?
Re: Duquesne Ranked at #130 under US News & World Report National Universities- Top Tier
Re: Fall guys