New Mexico State - 10/27/12

Where do I begin? Our train is still steaming down the tracks at full speed. My mind is going crazy replaying these 70 points we put up on the Potato Heads. How do you do that? It was such an awesome game and I am so proud of this team. These guys believe in each other and they believe in this coaching staff. I am super pumped to see where this team is going to take me next. I look forward to the journey and thank you for the trail that you have made. Great win against Idaho guys. It is time to move on to the Maroon Aggies from another mother. I am not sure how many Aggie schools there are in division 1 football, but we have 3 of them on the schedule this year. I wonder how many teams get so lucky. If you are an Aggie you are subject to stupid Aggie jokes right? This is one of my favorites. Q: Why did the Aggies run out of ice on the sidelines? A: The trainer lost the recipe. HaHa! That is pretty stupid funny! The last part of their fight song still cracks me up. We'll win this game or we will know the reason why! And when we win this game we'll buy a keg of booze, and we'll drink it to the Aggies 'till we wobble in our shoes. I guess you will know the reason why and that will be a beat down by the baddest dawgs in the land. :) I spoke with Matt several times during the week. Practices have gone well and he was kicking the ball well. Because he is kicking the ball so many times during the game they were going to limit the amount of kicks he took during the week. My leg would of already fallen off. He said the team was very focused on their game plan for New Mexico State. The team and special team meetings have been full of energy. We are still going to try and pin the tail on the donkey in the left corner on kickoffs. He said they have a couple of different on-sides they practiced during the week. He said the guys at the house (MN, RH, RA & RPS) all got pumpkins and they had a carving party. Some of them were pretty good. Matt carved the Tech logo in his. I am not sure how he did that as he has a hard time with knifes especially when he is eating. :) I really hate the day of a game that I am not going to attend. It seams to drag on forever. Janet's mom & dad came up from Spring on Friday night and they were going to stay with us over the weekend. Bob's (Janet's dad) sister Betty Sue is turning 80 on Halloween and we were going to a early birthday celebration at Janet's cousins (Kim & Nick) house. They served some awesome barbecue from Red Hot & Blue and their potato salad was to die for. Happy Birthday Betty Sue! We watched a little football and then it was time to head to the house so I could get ready for the game. I have to prepare myself for these watching parties. I am normally a mess as I wait for game time to start. Janet's aunt & uncle (David & Barbara) were coming over as well to watch the game. We signed up for ESPN Game Plan for the day. I am not sure how I am going to watch the game as Janet and I normally sit in different rooms when we watch the game. I am always about trying new things so this should be interesting. It is almost game time and my red wine is in my hand. Here we go! Let's get this party started. Matt kicks off to the goal lie and NMS brings it out to their 32 yard line. NMS runs 3 plays and punts. Tech takes over at their 28 yard line and runs 12 plays and Matt comes in to kick a 40 yard FG. I head to the next room and wait for a it's good and I get a high snap and it is no good. What is going on? This is not supposed to happen. More red wine please. NMS takes over and runs 3 plays and has to punt again.

Tech takes over at the NMS 50 yard line and runs 10 plays as KD runs it in from 2 yards out. Matt connects on the PAT. Tech is up 7 - 0. Let's bring it guys! Matt kicks off and we stop NMS at their 23 yard line. NMS runs 5 plays and they have to punt. Tech starts at their 13 yard line and we run 3 plays as RA comes in to punt. Did he come in to punt or what? He just bombed it 85 yards. I don't think I have ever seen a punt that long. Heck of a punt RA. NMS starts from their 2 yard line and runs 6 plays as the 1st quarter comes to an end. NMS starts the 2nd quarter 2 plays and has to punt. Tech takes over at their 20 yard line and we run 16 plays and Matt comes in to kick a 23 yard FG. I moved to a different room and waited for the all clear sign and I get a nope. It is no good. What in the world is going on? This is not Matt! I think I am going to puke. I get my glass of red wine and I head to the patio. Wow! NMS takes over at their 20 yard line and runs 5 plays and has to punt. Tech takes over at their 25 yard line and runs 7 plays and Matt comes in to kick a 37 yard FG. I stayed on the patio and listened and I got a no good. I am going to cry and puke! Something has to be going on. This is crazy! What am I doing wrong? I have already changed clothes twice since the game has started, but whatever I am doing is not working. I feel so bad for Matt as he has had an awesome season going on so far. It is time for a new streak. CFD get your head back into the game. No one wants to listen to your "What is going on BS". NMS takes over at their 20 yard line and runs 5 plays and has to punt. Tech takes the ball on their 4 yard line and we run 4 plays and RA comes in to punt. NMS starts on their 8 yard line and runs 1 play as the 1st half comes to an end. Tech is up 7 - 0. I don't know what to do! Where is this high powered offense? Our FG team is killing me! Our defense is doing what they are supposed to. Why is this happening to me? Ome on drawers, don't fail me now! My box of red wine and I need to have some deep conversations! The 3rd quarter starts and Tech starts on their 24 yard line and runs 3 plays and RA comes in to punt. This is not what I wanted to see. NMS starts on their 34 yard line and runs 6 plays and fumbles as VC recovers the ball at our 43 yard line. That is what I am talking about. Tech runs 5 plays and CC hits MW on a 44 yard bomb and Tech scores a TD. Matt comes in and connects with the PAT. Game on! Matt kicks off and we stop NMS at their 29 yard line. NMS runs 6 plays and fumbles the ball and it is recovered by AT at our 37 yard line. Keep it up guys! Tech run 3 plays and RA comes in to punt. NMS starts at their 28 yard line and runs 1 play as CB intercepts the ball. Now we have to do something with this turnover. Tech starts this drive at the NMS 28 yard line and we run 5 plays as CC runs it in from 2 yards out and we have another TD. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is up 21 - 0. Let's go guys! Let's take this thing to the house! Matt kicks off and Tech stops NMS at their 25 yard line. NMS runs 5 plays and has to punt. Tech take over at their 14 yard line and we run 9 plays as the 3rd quarter comes to an end. The 4th quarter starts off with Tech running 5 plays as we go for it on 4th and goal and come up short. NMS takes over at their 1 yard line and runs 8 plays and has to punt. Tech takes over at their 17 yard line and runs 1 play as RH takes it 83 yards for a TD. Way to go Ray! Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 28 - 0. Woo Hoo! Matt kicks off and we stop NMS at their 41 yard line. Something has to be going on with the kick coverage team. Something is just not right. NMS runs 5 plays and scores a TD on a 19 yard pass play. Tech is up 28 - 7. Tech takes the kickoff and this drive will start at our 25 yard line. Tech runs 6 plays and RA comes in to punt. NMS starts at their 20 yard line and runs 4 plays scores a TD on a 67 yard bomb. Tech is now up 28 - 14. Come on guys! Don't let this happen! Tech takes the kickoff and runs 2 plays as time disappears and Tech wins 28 - 14. I am exhausted and mentally drained. A win is a win, but this one was not very pretty. Is there a such thing as an ugly win? I think I just witnessed the Perfect Storm and it just happened in Las Cruces! My stomach hurts and I feel like I let Matt down by not doing something right. What am I going to say to him when I talk to him? Will he even call after the game? How is he dealing with this? Before I know it the phone rings and it is Matt. Janet answers and they talk about the game. I had to step out on the patio and readjust my thought process. Janet handed me the phone after he asked her if I was too embarrassed to talk to him. I told him I was not embarrassed at all. Sometimes stuff just happens.

He started off the conversation with "that was not a good day at the office". He said he had no chance at the 1st FG. The 2nd FG he felt like it went off of his toe and faded right. The 3rd FG he thought was right over the right upright and he thought it was good and the referee said no good. He would have to watch film after church and break everything down with CT. He said he was thankful for the win and I will go back to Ruston and start getting ready for UTSA. I will start a new streak and I will get better. I told him I was very proud of him and thanks for keeping me grounded and upright. We said our goodbyes and the team headed back to Ruston. Matt is as strong mentally as they come. I know he is not happy with his performance and he feels like he let his teammates and fans down, but things happen for a reason and you learn from them and you move forward. I did not sleep very well! I kept reliving the nope and the no good. It is over CFD! You can not play the game again! Leave it alone! Sunday afternoon Matt called after he and CT watched film. As he told me Saturday night the 1st one he had no chance. He did hit the 2nd one off of his toe and the 3rd one he hit well. It was just not where he needed it to go. They looked at his steps and form and nothing looked out of whack. CT told Matt they were still going to limit his kicks with the team. They would spend more time after practice on the real field with JC and DG working on the snap and hold. Matt said that Marty Kent (Tech kicker 94-97), Kevin Goessling (Prior Fresno State kicker) and Josh Scobee all reached out to him. He said Josh told him to keep his head high and he was too good of a kicker to let something like this get you down. He told Matt his Sr year that he missed 2 FG's against Texas El Paso and then he missed 3 FG's against Hawaii the week after. It just happens. He said he was only 21 for 31 his Sr. season. He also told Matt that he set a new franchise record for Jacksonville with 20 consecutive FG's on Sunday, but he did kick a kickoff out of bounds and during the press conference all they wanted to talk about was his kick out of bounds. Go figure! I thought it was cool that they all reached out to Matt. That was awesome! UTSA is up next! I lived in San Antonio for 6 years and I am familiar with the school, but not the football program. They had just started the football program as we were moving to North Dallas. Larry Cooker is their coach and they are called the Roadrunners. Their mascot is named Rowdy the Roadrunner. They have been called the Roadrunners since 1977 when the students voted on the two mascot contenders. It was between the Roadrunners and the Armadillos. Can you imagine having road kill as your mascot. I can't wait for Saturday to get here. We have lot's of family coming to the UTSA game. My aunt Donna and my cousin Heather with her family (Rob, Mackenzie & Mikaela) are all coming up from Florida. My sister Cathy and her family (Wes, Parker & Peyton) are coming up from Houston and as always my parents John & Carol, Janet's parents Bob & Margaret along with Janet's aunt & uncle David and Barbara will all be in attendance. Thanks to all of you for your support for Matt and this awesome football team. I will leave New Mexico State alone. It was a win, but a very tough win and game for me. This will be a super tough week for me mentally. Matt Nelson is strong and he will only get better. I love you man! Now go kick some Roadrunner's rear end. A special thanks to Tom Morris for the use of the photo and video in this blog. What a blast it is and we are so blessed to have the honor to watch Matt Nelson and the La Tech football team. I appreciate all of those who are following my journey. I can't wait to share my thoughts with everyone as the season goes on. It is such a blast to follow Matt Nelson through his eyes and this Bulldog football team. I write from the bottom of my heart and what my feelings are at that time and sometimes I get carried away. I am very passionate about La Tech Football! I am just a College Football Fan and I Love College Football! Until our paths cross again have a blessed week! College Football Dad!

Idaho - 10-20-12

I am still recovering from this war that we just fought. I know Matt takes one game and one kick at a time and that is what his focus is, but on this one I can't. I can not let it go. I know I should be thinking about Idaho now, but this track meet is still running around in my head. We came so close and the recovered on-sides kick got us right where we needed to be. CC's pass to RH was just perfect and the 50/50 2 point play just did not go our way. CFD let this thing go! I need to get this "Woulda-Coulda-Shoulda" out of my thought process. Go get your Mr. Potato Head out, sit on the floor and get your mind right for the Spuds.

I am still damn proud of this never quit and never give up team. I need to uncover some dirt on these potato head people. What is a Vandal? They say don't use your dictionary to find Idaho's definition of a Vandal. No, Idaho's student-athletes go by a name earned nearly a century ago by a basketball team coached by Hec Edmundson, whose teams played defense with such intensity and ferocity that sports writers said they "vandalized"  their opponents. Really? That can not be the real reason they are called Vandals. I guess that is what can happen when you live in Moscow. We are the ones who are going to cause damage and destruction.

The potato heads will feel vandalized when we get finished with them. That nickname needs to go back in the ground and grow some more. I talked to Matt a couple of times during the week. He said he felt good and his nasal pressure was starting to calm down. He said he was kicking the ball well and was trying to limit his amount of kicks during the week so he can continue to stay fresh during the game. They continued to work on the left corner for kickoffs and he played around with some new on-sides kicks. I asked Matt if they were truly focused on Idaho and he said that is all they are focused on. He said the coaches do a great job keeping them focused on the game at hand and nothing else.

He said the practices have been intense but very focused. We made our way to Ruston late Friday afternoon. We met my parents at the hotel and then headed to Matt's to gather all of the tailgate stuff and then headed to our tailgate spot. After all of the tents and tables were set up it was time to kick back and enjoy a few adult beverages. I am ready for this team to move me forward to another victory. After some grub at WOW and a nice bottle of red wine we called it a evening. We made our way to the stadium around 8:30 so we could get everything setup for an awesome day of tailgating and watching these Bulldogs take care of business.

After everything was setup it was now time for the Bloody Mary bar to open up and I was ready. On our menu today was a baked potato bar, chopped beef stuffed jalapenos wrapped in bacon, Earl Campbell Hot Links and chicken & poblano peppers with queso sausages. The potatoes were on the grill and the family and friends have arrived. What an awesome day! Bobby had made it in and his tailgate tents were set up. He was making Red Beans & Rice in this awesome Jambalaya pot ( I want one) and Bradly & Bryan were doing ribs and crayfish bread. The food is cooked and the adult beverages are flowing.

I don't know what it is, but after cooking I am never hungry  I am always thirsty though. I did get to sample Bobby's red beans & rice and it was to die for. Then Bryan brought over some crawfish bread and it was amazing. After all of that Bradly brought over some ribs and some more of this awesome crawfish bread. Man was it good! We really do have great tailgate neighbors. Is it game time yet? We see the band make their way down to tailgate alley and we know the team is close to arriving. We see the buses and make or way over to watch the team make their way to the field.

We see Matt and I give Matt a big bear hug and told him to go have fun. After a few more adult beverages we make our way over to the stadium. It's game time so let's get this part started. Matt kicks off and Idaho fumbles and Tech recovers the ball at the 1 yard line. Are you kidding me? KD takes the hand off and takes it in from 1 yard out. Matt connects on the PAT and just like that Tech is up 7 - 0. Matt kicks off and we stop Idaho at their 12 yard line. Idaho runs 3 plays and has to punt. Tech takes over at their 34 and runs 5 plays as KN runs it in from 2 yards out. Matt connects on the PAT. Matt kicks off we stop Idaho at the 26 yard line.

Idaho runs 2 plays and scores on a 58 yard pass play. Tech takes the kickoff and runs 9 plays as RH takes it in from 5 yards out. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 21 - 7. Matt kicks off and Idaho takes it to the house for a 92 yard touchdown. What just happened? Tech takes the kickoff and starts at their 25 yard line.Tech runs 5 plays as KD runs it in from 1 yard out. Matt connects on the PAT and just like that Tech is up 28 - 14. Matt kicks off and hold Idaho to their 14 yard line. Idaho runs 5 plays and has to punt. Tech starts at their 15 and runs 10 playes as CC hits QP for a 20 TD pass. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 35 -14.

Matt kicks off and Idaho runs 2 plays as the 1 st quarter comes to an end. Wow! I am out of breath and we have 3 quarters left. The 2nd quarter starts as Idaho runs 1 play and has to punt. Tech starts at their 26 yard line and runs 5 plays as CC hits MW for a 36 yard TD. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 42 - 14. Holy Cow! Matt kicks off and we have a touch back. Idaho runs 3 plays and has to punt. Tech starts at their 45 yard line runs 6 plays as KD takes it in form 7 yards out. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 49 - 14. I am exhausted! Matt kicks off and Idaho starts this drive on their 23 yard line.

Idaho runs 7 plays and Tech stops them on their 4th down and 21 yard attempt. Tech takes over at their 21 yard line and runs 8 plays as RH fumbles and Idaho runs it back 84 yards before the ball is knocked out by QP at the 1 yard line. Idaho runs 1 play and scores a TD. Tech is now up 49 - 21. Tech takes the kick off and this drive starts at their 39 yard line and runs 3 plays as KD takes it in from 2 yards out for a TD. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 56 - 21. Matt kicks off and Idaho starts on their 18 yard line. Idaho runs 2 plays and LL intercepts the ball. Tech runs 4 plays and Matt Nelson comes in to kick a 43 yard FG and it is no good.

I am not sure what happened. Janet said it looked like it barely missed left. Idaho takes over and runs 1 play as the half come to an end. Tech is up 56 - 21. This is just incredible! Where is this team going to take us next. How do you score 56 points in one half? Tech starts the 3rd quarter with the ball and runs 10 plays and does not convert on a 4th down play. Idaho takes over at their 27 yard line and runs 9 plays and they fail at their 4th down attempt. Tech takes over at their 20 yard line and runs 5 plays as KD runs it in from 20 yards out and score a TD.

Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 63 - 21. Score more points! Matt kicks off and Idaho will start at their 21 yard line. Idaho runs 4 plays and fumbles the ball as Tech recovers the ball. Tech starts at the Idaho 44 yard line and runs 7 plays as ZG runs it in from 3 yards out for a TD. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 70 - 21. Wow! This is a lot of points. Matt kicks off and Idaho will start at their 23 yard line. Idaho runs 3 plays and punts, Tech runs 3 plays and fumbles and Idaho runs 2 plays and Tech intercepts as the 3rd quarter comes to an end. I am in need of some oxygen!

Idaho scores a TD in the 4th quarter as we exchange possessions the rest of the 4th quarter as Tech wins 70 -28. What a game! That is a ton of points! This offense is amazing! This team is amazing! KD is a beast! RH is a beast! CC is a machine! RA is a weapon! MN is amazing! What else can I say? We made our way to the field house to see Matt. We got to talk to RA and VC before Matt came out. Matt had several family members and friends there so it took him a while give each person a hug and thank them for coming to the game. I got a hug and asked a couple of questions like I was some reporter. I need to refrain from those questions and wait until later but sometimes I can not hold back.

He said his leg still felt good but he knew later in the night he would be sore. An ice bath on Sunday would cure any soreness and put him back on the road to recovery. I asked him about his missed FG and he said he hit the ball well. It went a couple of feet left of the left upright. He would have to wait to watch film on Sunday, but if he had to guess is that his plant foot was probably straight at the left upright instead of being pointed more towards the center of the upright. We made our way back over to the tailgate spot. Earlier in the day we met a young man who plays soccer and wants to be a kicker and he wanted to meet Matt. We told him and his family that Matt would be with us after the game and their son could meet Matt.

He was waiting for us when we got there and Matt introduced himself to him and they talked soccer and football for a little bit and then Matt held the ball for him as he kicked some balls in the parking lot. It was really pretty cool to see and Matt loves to help these kids in anyway he can. I was very proud of Matt. We picked up a few things and then headed to Chili's for a late night dinner. I sure wish Ruston had more of a late night restaurant choice. It seems like everyone closes right after the game. After dinner we headed back to the hotel. It had been a long exciting day and this kid was tired. My parents were heading back to Florida early and we were going to meet Matt at the tailgate spot at 9:30 for take down and then store it back at Matt's house.

We say our goodbyes and head back to North Dallas. My reflections of the game are awesome. I am just on the ride and I am waiting to see where this team takes me next. They play hard until the bitter end and they execute when they are called upon. I am very proud of each and everyone of them. I will leave the potato head game here. It is time for me to get my mind right for the maroon Aggies of another mother. New Mexico State in Las Cruses is up next. I am not sure how many point we will score, but I do like our chances of coming away with another Tech victory. I always think their fight song is hilarious. Their fight song goes like this: Aggies, Oh Aggies! The hills send back the cry, we're here to do or die! Aggies, Oh Aggies! We'll win this game or know the reasons why! And when we win this game, we'll buy a keg of booze, and we'll drink it to the Aggies till we wobble in our shoes! I have a feeling that you will know the reason why!

That is an awesome fight song. A special thanks to Donny Crowe, Louisiana Tech University and Tom Morris for the use of some of the photos used in this blog. What a blast it is and we are so blessed to have the honor to watch Matt Nelson and this La Tech team. I appreciate all of those who are following my journey. I can't wait to share my thoughts with everyone as the season goes on. It is such a blast to follow Matt Nelson through his eyes and this Bulldog football team. I write from the bottom of my heart and what my feelings are at that time and sometimes I get carried away. I am very passionate about La Tech Football! I am just a College Football Fan and I Love College Football! Until our paths cross again have a blessed week! College Football Dad!

Texas A&M - 10/13/12

Where do I start? Is this really happening? This is like watching Rudy or Facing the Giants. My favorite quote from Facing the Giants is "Attitude is the aroma of the heart. If your attitude stinks, your heart is not right." I think this La Tech team has it's heart right where it needs to be. We have gone to a place that I thought we were capable of but only dreamed we would actually get to. We have taken on the Big, the Bad and the Ugly and look at us now. We even knocked the Sin out of Sin City. Who knows what will happen next. I am very proud of my green drawers and I know they have carried me through this part of the season so far. I am so proud of this team and I can not wait to see where we are headed to next. Cloud 9 and I are still chilling as we get ready to prepare for Texas A&M in Shreveport. This will be an 8:15 PM start and the game is on ESPNU. This is going to be a strange week for me as I won't be going to my normal tailgate spot. Many of our tailgate neighbors (Bobby & Andrew) already have tailgate spots at Independence Stadium and have asked us to join them.

It will be pretty cool, but I will still feel naked not cooking something. I apologize about the naked thing as that would not be a pretty site. Now it is time for me to seriously get ready for the game. Texas A&M is 5 - 1 with their only loss against Florida at home. La Tech and Texas A&M are both ranked in the top 25 and they both bring in a high powered offense. Did I just say La Tech is ranked in the top 25? Wow! How incredible is that? We deserve all of this national attention and I am loving it. Before I get carried to far I really want to explore this all male cheerleader thing. I am not sure I understand the concept. I guess I need to correct myself as they are not cheerleaders, they are yell leaders. This group of 5 is composed of 3 seniors and 2 juniors. Not only do they yell at you they use a variety of hand signals called "Pass Backs" to direct and intensify the crowd. Really? Their fans really need hand signals so they know what to do next. That is just like "How many Aggies does it take to change out a light bulb?" Tight white pants, hand signals and yelling at you sounds like there is some funny stuff going on behind the scenes.

A warning has been issued on I-20 all the way from Dallas to Shreveport to remove all of your goats and sheep along with cutting down as many of your stumps as you can. As the Aggie fan base makes their way to the great state of Louisiana they are interested in testing out the East Texas and Northwest Louisiana goat and sheep population. Ha Ha! That is funny right there! We spoke with Matt several times during the week. He was on point, focused and was stoked for the game against the Aggies. He said practices have been intense and the team is very focused. He thought all of the practices and meetings have gone very well. He said he is kicking the ball well. They have watched a lot of film and the Aggies run some stunts with their line on FG's and PAT's. They are still working on kicks to the left side between the hash and the corner of the end zone along with some sky kicks and a few different on-sides kicks. I know Matt gets tired of me asking him "Why" all of the time, but sometimes I just don't understand the reasoning on this left corner thing.

I guess I never will. We made our way over to Shreveport Friday afternoon. We caught up with my parents and checked in to the hotel. Around 5:30 PM we headed to Chimi V's at exit 21 off of I-20. Chimi V's is a Fajita Factory/Sports Bar. Flip and Bobby (owners) have invited the cheerleaders and our mascot to a pep rally at 6:00 PM. Janet's parents and her aunt along with her brother's family joined us there as well. Flip and Bobby had a table set aside for us and this place is just awesome. Flip and my dad have shared a few bottles of wine at our tailgate spots in Ruston over the last couple of years and this partaking of wine would not end today. Flip was ready with the wine as he opened up several bottles of Caymus. It was really good and very kind as you can not beat an awesome glass of wine! We got to talk with some of the cheerleaders and my niece Mikayla had her picture taken with a few of them along with our mascot. There was a television crew there and we got to see their broadcast live on the TV's as they filmed some of our pep rally.

The margaritas were flowing, the wine was flowing, the fajitas were sizzling and the queso was amazing. If you get a chance to go to Chimi V's you will not be disappointed. Thanks so much to Flip and Bobby for an amazing experience. After our awesome meal we headed to the El Dorado for some gaming fun. Matt had a couple of high school buddies (Jake & Colton) coming up from College Station for the game. Jake was the QB on Matt's high school team as was Matt's only holder he had in high school. We ran into them both at the El Dorado. It was good to catch up with them. After enough of this gaming fun we headed back to the hotel to unwind with a good bottle of red wine and then it was lights out. Saturday morning came early and I was itching to head to the tailgating area. I was told to calm down as this was going to be a long day. My dad and I along with my father and brother in-law made our way over to Maxwell's Market to grab a few things. I have been to Ross's place several times and he has some very unique things, but one thing caught my eye this time that I have never seen.

They have this sauce called Zee's Secret Sausage Sauce made specially for grilled sausage. Are you kidding me? That is so awesome! We made our way back to the hotel and regrouped. I was ready to go and at 12:00 Noon we headed for the white lot. With the big ice chest in tow we made our way over to Bobby's tailgate area. Andrew's spot was just behind Bobby's. Bobby's group was cooking ribs, brisket and pulled pork and Andrew's group had jambalaya and fried fish. It is always great to get to visit with them. It was going to be a grand day. The first beer (Fat Tire) is opened and our tailgating experience has begun. Janet's family (Papaw, Meggie, Mike, Melynda & Mikayla), Kasie, Kasie's dad Jeremy, my sister and her family (Cathy, Wes, Parker, Peyton), Mr & Mrs Harper, Mr Hamm, Mr Rust, David & Barbara along with Jake and Colton all made their way over to the tailgate area. The party is on! I will have to admit that we had an Aggie joke experience while we were trying to light the charcoal chimney to get the coals ready to warm up the ribs. It was pretty windy and it took at times up to 4 people to get this thing lit, but to be honest 3 of us were trying to block the wind.

It was pretty funny though. The food was awesome and thanks to Bobby and Andrew for letting our crew hangout. We are so blessed to have met so many awesome people at the La Tech games. I really though their would be more people in the white lot tailgating, but as game time got closer there were more that showed up. Janet along with several others made their way over to see the team arrive. She said that Matt looked focused and she did get a hug. After a few beers and some more awesome food we made our way into the stadium. Janet's boss (Curtis and his family) were coming over from Dallas and I was pretty excited to get to visit with them. We got to watch Matt warm up some. The wind was swirling so it was hard for me to tell how is warm ups had gone. I noticed when he was on the sidelines after warm up that he kept touching his nose. Janet's dads seats were down low and I saw Matt talking to him while he was getting some water. I did not think anything about it and then Janet's dad came up to our seats and said that Matt had broke his nose in pregame warm up. What? How do you do that? Matt told Janet's dad he was kicking some longer FG's and was watching the ball longer than normal to see what the wind was doing.

Matt said he was not looking as one of the equipment guys tossed the ball towards him and hit him on the side of his nose. I guess I will have to find out more from Matt after the game is over. It is game time and I am ready to get this battle on. Matt kicks off and we stop TAM at the 21 yard line. TAM runs 5 plays and runs it in from 40 yards out for a TD. Really? Tech takes the kick and we run 3 plays from our 28 yard line and RA comes it to punt. TAM starts on their 34 yard line and runs 10 plays and scores on a 20 yard pass play. TAM is up 14 - 0. Please say it is not so! Tech starts their next drive at our 45 yard line and runs 5 plays as we go for it on 4th down and turn the ball back over to TAM. Here we go. This is way to early to start this! TAM starts at their 39 yard line and runs 9 plays as they score on a run from 15 yards out. The score is now TAM 21 - 0. Tech takes over at our 25 yard line and we run 3 plays and RA comes in to punt. TAM starts at their 27 yard line and runs 2 plays as the 1st quarter comes to an end.

Wow! We just laid a 1st quarter egg! This is not the start I was looking for. The 2nd quarter starts with TAM running 8 plays as they kick a 26 yard FG. Tech starts their next drive on our 25 yard line and we run 9 plays and our attempt to go for it on 4th down comes up short. TAM taks over at their 37 yard line and runs 9 plays as they connect with a 54 yard FG. TAM is now up 27 - 0. What are we doing? Tech takes the kickoff and we start our drive at our 25 yard line and we run 10 plays as CC hits QP for a 11 yard pass play. Matt comes in and connects on the PAT. This is a start! Matt kicks off for a touch back and TAM will start at their 25 yard line. TAM runs 1 play and scores again on a 75 yard pass play and they are now up 34 - 7. Tech takes the kick off and we start at our 25 yard line and run 9 plays as KD takes it in from the 6 yard line and scores. Matt comes in for the PAT and it is blocked and TAM takes it back for 2 points. What just happened? I looked at the picture I just took and I could not see the line, but the ball off of Matt's foot looked normal.

Wow! @mnels33 is not going to be a happy camper and neither will CD or CT! Matt kicks off for another touch back. TAM runs 7 plays and connects on a 28 yard FG. This is incredible! What is going on? Tech takes the kick off and runs 6 plays and Matt comes in and connects on a 43 yard FG. That kick I was told looked like a flying saucer as it was tipped at the line again. I am not sure what is going on and I guess I will find out after the game. The 43 yard FG by Matt Nelson ends the 2nd half. The score is TAM 39, Tech 16. I think I need to go walk around. I need to re-adjust my thought process and my drawers. Tech starts the 3rd quarter on our 25 yard line and runs 7 plays and we turn the ball back over to TAM after our 4th down attempt failed. TAM starts at their 35 yard line and runs 3 plays and punts. Tech starts at our 26 yard line and runs 12 plays and CC hit QP on a 2 yard pass play. Matt connects on the PAT and the score is TAM 39 - 23. This is better! Matt kicks off and looks like he over kicks it to me and it goes out of bounds in the left corner.

I hate the left corner! TAM starts their drive at the 35 yard line and runs 11 plays and scores on a 2 yard run. TAM is now up 46 - 23. No comment! Tech starts at their 25 yard line and we run 10 plays as CC hits QP on a 5 yard pass play for a TD. Matt connects on the PAT and the score is now TAM 46 - 30. Matt kicks off and TAM runs 3 plays from their 26 yard line and has to punt. Tech takes over at our 26 yard line and we run 6 plays and the 3rd quarter comes to an end. TAM 46 -30. Can we do this? The 4th quarter starts with RA punting. TAM starts from their 20 yard line and runs 3 plays and punts. Tech takes over at their 31 yard line and runs 7 plays as KD runs it in from 21 yards out. We go for the 2 point attempt and CC takes it in. The score is now TAM 46 - 38. Could it be the jump start we need? TAM takes the kick off and starts their drive from their 25 yard line. After 2 penalties in a row SL intercepts the ball and takes it in for a score. Wow! We go for the 2 point play and CC's pass comes up short. The score is now TAM 46 - 44. Wow again! Is this really happening? Matt kicks off and TAM starts on their 18 yard line.

TAM runs 10 plays and scores on a 17 yard pass play. Oh this is going to hurt! Tech takes the kick and we start at our 25 yard line. We run 6 plays and RA hits the punt for 71 yards and we down it at the TAM 1 yard line. Very nice RA! TAM runs 7 plays and JM scores on a 72 yard run. The PAT is missed! How is he faster than our defense? This is not good! TAM now leads 59 - 44. Tech starts on our 38 yard line and CC hits QP on a 62 yard bomb. Matt comes in ad connects on the PAT. This is crazy! Matt Nelson kicks the on-sides kick and it is a beauty as Tech recovers the ball. Tech runs 6 plays as CC hits RH on a 13 yard TD pass. Awesome catch RH! We go for the 2 point play with a chance to tie the game and CC's pass comes up short. Wow! Oh so close! Matt kicks another on-sides kicks and TAM recovers it. TAM runs 1 play and the game is over. TAM wins 59 - 57. Are you kidding me? What a game! After the way this started I really did not know the ending would be this close. I am so sad for this loss, but I am so proud of this team for never giving up and believing they could still win this game. I am exhausted and I am mentally drained.

These games are so long. I am not sure I can even sit down. I watched the team go to midfield after the game. I could tell this was going to be a difficult greeting before they boarded the bus. I saw the team leave the field and head to the locker room. I was disappointed that they did not stay on the field as the Alma Mater was played by the band. We made our way to the gate where the team buses were and waited for Matt and the team to come out. There were quite a few parents and fans waiting for them. As the players made their way out everyone gave each player a round of applause. That was so awesome to see. Matt finally made his way out and he had 24 plus family and friends to give hugs to. After he got to me you could tell he was pretty upset. I asked him about his nose and he said that it was broken. He said one of the equipment guys threw the ball to him and he was still watching one of his pre-game kicks. He said it bleed like crazy. He said he had blood everywhere as he continued to go through his pre-game warm-up. The team doctor and the EMT did confirm that his nose was broken.

They gave him an injection of pain medicine and it was game time. This was now the 3rd time he has broken his noes so I am sure after the season he will need some type of surgery. Now it was time for me to ask about the blocked PAT and the tipped FG. He said the A Gap got pushed back and he thinks #94 got his hand on the ball. He said he still got the ball up good but TAM pushed in. He said on the FG that the same thing happened and he really does not know how the FG went in. He said the sound was more than a tip. It sounded like a thud. He said anyway you look at it and no matter how it happened, that he is the one that kicked it and it is his job to get it through the posts. He thought by that FG going in at the close of the 1st half that it was a momentum builder for him and for the team at half time. He said they work on the on-sides kick all the time and he thought he put it in the right spot for them to recover and sure enough we did.

He said on the 2nd on-sides kick that they pushed forward and TAM recovered. I could tell he did not want to talk about it with me anymore and I understood. He did say this type of loss is tough and I will hurt on the way home. Sunday is already here and it is time to get ready for Idaho. We will watch film tomorrow and we will learn from our mistakes and then move on. We said our goodbyes and headed back to the hotel. Even though it was well into Sunday morning I needed to settle down with a adult beverage or two. I sit here and think about this team and that Matt is still 8 for 8 on FG's and 39 of 40 on PAT's. It is just amazing! We met up with family for breakfast and then headed back to North Dallas. This is one of the tougher games that I have personally experienced. I feel like I got punched in the stomach and I wanted this win so bad. I am still very proud of this team as I know they never gave up. They never quit and they showed that until the bitter end. We did hear from Matt Monday morning after he met with the team doctor. He told Matt that he will need surgery to reconstruct his nose.

They will find a surgeon after the season is over and he gave him prescriptions to battle any infections that might crop up and for the pain. Matt is a tough young man and this will not stop him from achieving his personal goals and the teams goals. While I am disappointed with the outcome I know this team will grow from this as we head into WAC play. Many thanks to all of the family and friends who made their way over to Shreveport to watch our Bulldogs. It really means a lot to us and we are so blessed with all of the support! I am ready to take on the Spuds and I will leave the Texas A&M game alone. Idaho is up next in Ruston. These potato heads are going to be heading into a buzz saw when they hit the field at Joe Aillet stadium.

They will never get their potato head parts put back in place after we get done making mashed potatoes out of them. Idaho is 1 - 6 for the season with their lone victory over New Mexico State. Go Dawgs!  This will be a tough week for me as I reflect on all of the what if's! I am not going to retire my green drawers just yet. I know I have 7 more victories out of them. Then who knows, I might just have them framed and hung up with my other sports memorabilia. A special thanks to Donny Crowe, Jeremy Onken and Louisiana Tech University for the use of two of the photos used in this blog.

What a blast it is and we are so blessed to have the honor to watch Matt Nelson and this La Tech team. I appreciate all of those who are following my journey. I can't wait to share my thoughts with everyone as the season goes on. It is such a blast to follow Matt Nelson through his eyes and this Bulldog team. I write from the bottom of my heart and what my feelings are at that time and sometimes I get carried away. I am very passionate about La Tech Football! I am just a College Football Fan and I Love College Football! Until our paths cross again have a blessed week! College Football Dad!

UNLV - 10/6/12

I am not sure I am going to be able to contain myself this week. Wow! What is next? We just knocked the "Hoo" out the "Horton Hears a Hoo" team. Take that you big bad ACC team! You know who we are now! This is crazy good! I am being taken on this journey that looks like it has no end. So far "Knock on Wood" my lucky green drawers are working and this team is rolling over anybody and anything. Hanging out on cloud 9 is sort of cool. I think I might be hear for a long time. Now I need to prepare my self for the "Sin City" team. They have won 1 game over Air Force and have lost 4 other games. I was looking at the UNLV athletic site and

I read that since Nevada is the 36th state that the #36 can only be worn by a player who is from Nevada. How strange is that? Their mascot is named Rebecca and she has a mustache. I guess the old saying "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" applies here as I do not want to know why she has a mustache. If we play our game and step up on defense I see no problem in getting a W in this game. I was pretty pumped on Monday when they announced that Matt was the Special Teams Player of the Week in the WAC. That is awesome Matt and well deserved. I spoke to Matt several times during the week.

He said he feels great and has really fine tuned the amount of times he kicks during the week. He is kicking the ball really well and his timing with JC and DG is really clicking. He said the team is really focused and taking one day at a time and one game at a time. They continue to work on pining the tail on the donkey in the left corner and they have a few interesting specialty kicks if the situation presents it's self. I think the kicking game gets too complicated sometimes. Just kick it and if they bring it out your coverage team should be there to stop them before the 25 yard line. We would make our way over to Ruston Friday afternoon.

My parents (John & Carol) were coming in from Florida again and they will be attending the next 3 games. We dropped our stuff off at the hotel and then headed to Matt's house to load the tailgate stuff up. Then we made our way to tailgate spot #52 and set the tents up. The tables are set up and the chairs are in place and now my ice chest is ready for me to grab an adult beverage. No where in america can you tailgate this close to the stadium. This is just awesome! We had a few more adult beverages and the we headed to El Jarrito so I could get my Queso Fundido fix.

Man that stuff is addicting! We made our way back to the hotel to watch a little football and finish the night off with a good bottle of red wine. I had a hard time sleeping as I could not stop thinking about how awesome the football weather was going to be tomorrow. This is my kind of weather and my shorts will be on. We loaded the gang up and headed to the stadium at 8:30 AM. We unloaded all of the ice chests and the totes full of supplies. We covered the tables with red and blue and the flag was flying. The bar is setup and the Bloody Mary's are being served. Our menu was simple with burgers and dogs, but I would be experimenting with bacon wrapped tater tots and bacon wrapped smoked sausage.

Everything is good wrapped in bacon! Andrew and his gang had the smoker going with ribs and chicken and Bobby and his gang had fried catfish and jambalaya cooking away. We really do have some awesome tailgate neighbors. We always have awesome people (Mr. Harper, Mr. Hamm, Mr. Barclay, Mr. Rust, Mrs. Toni, Mr. & Mrs. Garland and a few I am forgetting) come by and visit and we always enjoy visiting with everyone. The grill is lit and the beer is flowing. Mr. Harper presented me with a chefs jacket last year and I always have it hanging in the tent. Bobby brought his chefs jacket this week and hung it in his tent.

The next thing I knew he had his chefs jacket on and he said it was game on. So I put mine on and the cooking games have begun. This is awesome! Janet's parents (Meggie & Papaw) and her Aunt & Uncle (David & Barbara) arrive and the the crew is all here. The grill is doing it's thing and the tailgating is in full swing. The cool thing about the tailgate scene is that everyone let's you sample their grub and fried catfish, jambalaya and the ribs were all amazing! We have some awesome cooks around us. The burgers and dogs are done and the chowing down begins. The next thing we know we hear the sirens and that means one thing.

The team is arriving! We made our way over to tailgate alley and here they come. Matt heads our direction and I give him a big hug and I told him to go have fun. I got a high five from RH and VC. This is awesome! It's time for a few more adult beverages and a little more time with family and friends and then it is time to head into the stadium. I must admit it is pretty chilly but the shorts are staying with me. I got to see Matt kick a few balls and he looked like he was kicking the ball well. The wind looked like it was swirling a bit.

It's game time so let's get this party started. UNLV kicks off and Tech starts at their 26 yard line. We run 10 plays and Matt comes in and nails a 27 yard FG. The streak continues! Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 18 yard line. UNLV runs 9 plays and scores on a 33 yard pass play and UNLV is up 7 - 3. Tech takes over at the 26 yard line and runs 13 plays and Matt comes in and connects on a 33 yard FG. That is awesome Matt! We do need some TD's though, but I will take points at anytime. Matt kicks off and UNLV heads up the field with a 56 yard return.

It looked like Matt might have just got enough of him to trip him up and save a TD. UNLV runs 2 plays and it is a fumble. Tech takes over at our 38 yard line and runs 10 plays as CC hits QP on a 6 yard pass play. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is up 13 - 7. Here we go! Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 24 yard line. UNLV runs 3 plays and punts and it is blocked. What? A inadvertent whistle from the stands caused him take his time kicking the ball. You have to be kidding me! What a joke! UNLV gets to punt it again and guess what! It is blocked again. I have never witnessed 2 back to back punt blocks on 2 consecutive plays. Awesome guys! Tech takes over at the UNLV 9 yard line and RH runs it in for a TD. Matt connects on the PAT and just like that Tech is up 20 - 7! Wow! Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 23 yard line. UNLV runs 3 plays and the 1st quarter comes to an end. I like what I am seeing. The 2nd quarter starts with UNLV running 9 plays and they go for it on 4th down the the Tech defense shuts them down and takes over at our 2 yard line.

Tech runs 10 plays and KD scampers in from 1 yard out and scores. Matt Nelson comes in and connects on the PAT. Tech is now up 27 - 7. Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 12 yard line. That is what I am talking about. UNLV runs 7 plays and scores on a 27 yard pass play. This is not good! Tech takes the kickoff and KD returns it to our 37 yard line. Tech runs 6 plays and RA punts the ball 54 yards for a touch back. UNLV runs 10 plays and connects on a 25 yard FG and Tech is now up 27 - 17.

Tech starts on their 37 yard line and marches down the field trying to get a quick score before the half comes to an end. We take our last time out at the 15 second mark and CC runs 7 yards to the 19 yard line and before we can spike the ball time has run out and CT sent the FG team out at the same time so we would of had too many players on the field. The half comes to an end and we do not get any points. What just happened here? You don't run the ball in this situation.

You still had time to try a pass in the end zone and if that was not good you have a chance at a FG. I just don't understand. I put the blame on the coaching staff. You should have told CC exactly what you wanted him to do. You practice plays like this during the week and I know they are in your playbook. The 3rd quarter begins as Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 33 yard line. UNLV runs 6 plays and scores on a 46 yard pass play. What are we doing? Tech is now up 27 - 24.

Our defense needs to step up now! Tech takes the kickoff and we start at our 34 yard line. Tech runs 8 plays as KD runs it in from 10 yards out. Matt connects on the PAT and Tech is now up 34 - 27. This is what I needed! Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 34 yard line. UNLV runs 6 plays and we stop them on their 4th and 11 attempt. Tech takes over at our 45 yard line and we run 7 plays as Matt Nelson comes in and connects on a 43 yard FG. Are you kidding me? You rock @mnels33! Tech is now up 37 - 24. Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 23 yard line.

UNLV runs 3 plays and punts the ball out of bounds at our 40 yard line. Tech runs 6 plays as KD takes it in from 15 yards out and Matt connects on the PAT. Tech is now up 44 - 27! Let's keep this going! Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 18 yard line. UNLV runs 10 plays and we stop them as they go for it on 4th and 3 at our 28 yard line. Tech takes over and we run 1 play and the 3rd quarter comes to an end. I am feeling pretty good right now. I have to admit that I did have to recruit the assistance of a blanket for the 4th quarter. My legs were a little numb. I tried to hang on!

Tech starts the 4th quarter running 3 plays and RA comes in to punt. UNLV takes over at their 18 yard line. UNLV runs 3 plays and JJ intercepts the ball. Tech takes over at the UNLV 49 yard line and runs 7 plays as KD scoots in from 7 yards out and Matt connects on the PAT. This is what I am talking about! Matt kicks off and we stop UNLV at their 22 yard line. UNLV runs 3 plays and punts the ball. Tech takes over at our 21 yard line and runs 3 plays and RA comes in to punt. UNLV takes over at their 35 yard line and runs 6 plays as Tech stops UNLV on their 4th down attempt.

Tech takes over at their 45 yard line and runs 8 plays as HL takes it in from 17 yards out. Matt connects on the PAT and now Tech is up 58 - 24! This is amazing! Matt kicks off and UNLV returns it to their 41 yard line. UNLV runs 6 plays and scores on a 13 yard pass play. UNLV kicks off and Tech starts this drive at our 38 yard line. We run 3 plays and the game is over! Tech Wins! Tech Wins! Tech Wins 58 - 31! Wow! This is incredible! This teams amazes me more every game. I am very proud of this team. I am at a loss for words right now.

Cloud #9 and I are floating pretty high right now. We made our way up to the field house and waited for Matt to come out. Matt had already dressed out before he came out. You could tell he was pretty stoked about the game. I gave him a big hug and told him congrats. He said the ball feels so good coming off his foot right now. I asked him about tripping up #18 on the kick off return and said that was the most non athletic move he has ever made. He said he just happened to grab part of his foot enough to trip him up.

I told him it did not matter as they did not score. He laughed. He talked to the rest of the family and then he headed over to the tailgate area with us to hangout for a bit. Mr. Rust was there as well as Andrew and Bobby's group. Matt got to visit with them as well as we watched the end of the FSU - NC State game. Matt said he was starved so we headed to Chili's to get something to eat. Then it was off to the hotel and we would end the night with a nice bottle of red wine. What a day and what a win! Sunday morning came way to early. We met Matt over at the tailgate area at 9:30 AM.

He wanted to help us take down the tents and get all of the tailgate stuff back to his house. It is always a chore, but it is well worth it having almost everything already here in Ruston. We said our goodbyes as we were headed back to North Dallas and Matt was headed to church. I am exhausted, but I am so glad I get to watch Matt and this team perform. These are amazing young men playing a game I love! Knock on wood, as Matt is still perfect for the season. 7 for 7 on FG's and 35 for 35 on PAT's for a total of 56 points. He is 36 points away from breaking Josh Scobee's career scoring record for a kicker and he is 41 points away from breaking Troy Edwards record as the overall career scoring leader at La Tech. That is pretty amazing to me and what an honor it is to watch Matt play. Always 1 for 1 @mnels33. The maroon Aggies from somewhere in Texas are up next. This game will be played in Shreveport at 8:15 PM on ESPNU. This game was already supposed to have been played, but a weather disturbance postponed the game until now.

This is a warning to all East Texas and NW Louisiana residents. Now is the time to cut down all of your stumps as the Aggie followers will be traveling with all of their sheep and goats on their way to Shreveport. Stump breaking is only allowed in College Station so beware. I have to throw in one Aggie joke. There were three Aggies huddled around each other at a local bar. All of a sudden, they jumped up and yelled, "Yeah, 45! 45!" The bartender goes down to them and asks, "45? What are you guys so excited about?" One of the Aggies speaks up: "We just finished a jigsaw puzzle. The box said 2 to 3 years, and we did it in 45 days!" Now that is funny right there! I am excited about being at this game. This will be a test for us and I think we will be up for the challenge. With 2 top 25 teams and the game on national television excitement will be in the air. Is it time to head to Shreveport yet?

I am ready. Bring on the Aggies! I will leave the UNLV game here. A special thanks to Donny Crowe, Tom Morris and Louisiana Tech University for the use of a couple of photos in this blog. They were awesome photos! What a blast it was and we are so blessed to have the honor to watch Matt Nelson and this team. I appreciate all of those who are following my journey. I can't wait to share my thoughts with everyone as the season goes on. It is such a blast to follow Matt Nelson through his eyes and this Bulldog team. I write from the bottom of my heart and what my feelings are at that time and sometimes I get carried away. I am very passionate about La Tech football! I am just a College Football Fan and I Love College Football! Until our paths cross again have a blessed week! College Football Dad!