Former NCAA Native American Mascot Teams That Have Changed For The Better (...Or Worst)

Surely, majority of you know of the re-emergence of the rally to have the Washington Redskins change from their long standing native american moniker, 'the redskins.'

This long, ongoing process (really debate) isn't new in the sports world. For decades teams have been some variance of native american mascot and as time as gone by, our society and culture changed to the point that many went from not caring and rooting for these teams to demanding they get rid of their nicknames. The NCAA and many of it's members are really where this has been hit.

For this addition of the RamlinArkansan blog, I'm going to address all those SELECT collegiate teams, what they formerly were and changed to, and my overall thoughts.

Stanford Cardinal:

Previously Known As: Indians (1940-1972)

For over four decades, Standford University was represented by that fiesty little fellow up above. But starting in the 70s onward really began seeing the tide turn from apathy about Native American mascots to somewhat resentment. After much protest from many Stanford students, the universty president finally retired 'Indians' after the 72 season. For eight years, it appeared the school would just be another generic "Cardinals" until then university president Donald Kennedy decided the school just be called 'Cardinal', as in the singular form describing the university's primary color.

CHANGE GRADE: A+ (Very solid change for the better of Stanford).

Technically, Stanford has never formally declared the 'Tree' as the university's official mascot-it's more of student/school spirit character. However, their's no denying when you see that crazy, cracked out Christmas tree (really a Sequoia tree but eh...) practically everyone knows he's the "Stanford Tree."

FUN FACT!!:

The student body in fact voted in the early 80s to have the "Red Barons" become the school's new mascot. However, many alumni hated the name finding it "silly" and it was ultimately rejected by the board of trustees. Interestingly, during the university wide vote, their was a movement to bring back the name "Indians" but it was overwhelmingly shot down by the students-also, the name 'Cardinal' was in fact an option to vote on-it came in 4th place.

DARTMOUTH BIG GREEN:

PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS: 'Indians' (1920s-early 1970s)

Another 'Indians' (of many) on this, Dartmouth's origin story for it's usage of the name Indians goes back to it's humble beginnings: according to its wikipedia page (for the record I know it's not the most USEFUL of sources but sue me): "It is often pointed out that the charter of Dartmouth College, granted to Eleazar Wheelock in 1769, proclaims that the institution was created "for the education and instruction of Youth of the Indian Tribes in this Land in reading, writing and all parts of Learning ... as well as in all liberal Arts and Sciences; and also of English Youth and any others." Of course, if you continued to read hardly ANY native Americans graduated from Dartmouth, but oh well! Much like Stanford, by the 70s the name began catching serious slack and it was ultimately dropped by University officials. 

Dartmouth had always been known as "The Big Green" (Which is named by the enormous commons area in the center of its campus that has a lot of green grass...figures). However, for decades no mascot was ever actually decided on. In 2003, the student government proposed a vote to finally decide on a new mascot-the students were so underwhelmed by their choices that winner of the vote was "No Mascot". 

That's when this fellow comes into the picture...

 Meet Keggy the Keg.

Keggy was the invention of a local humor magazine published at the university that was originally meant to be a partial joke and an attempt to pressure the Student Government Association to create better and more unique mascot choices.

....For some reason that never occurred and despite initial controversy and a couple of kidnappings of the suit, Keggy has become a unofficial yet universal figure head mascot for the Big Green athletics.

Change Grade: ??? Though I'm not sure if Keggy will turn into a lasting change like Stanford to the Cardinal/Stanford Tree, but you gotta admire their sense of humor at Dartmouth.

Marquette Golden Eagles:

Previously Known as: Warriors (...kinda sorta. )

Simply put, Marquette has quite a complicated mascot/nickname history. Because of that (and also I'm not in the mood to paraphrase at the moment) here's the bit from their Wikipedia page:

"Marquette's intercollegiate athletic teams were the "Warriors" from May 1954 to July 1994 when the nickname was changed to the "Golden Eagles", on the grounds that previous logos had been disrespectful to Native Americans. Prior to 1962 Marquette football was known as "Golden Avalanche" and other teams were known as "Warriors," "Blue and Gold," and "Hilltoppers".^[63] The Marquette Warriors (the nickname that preceded Golden Eagles) won the NCAA basketball championship in 1977.^[64] In 2004, Marquette began to consider changing the name back to Warriors, but instead the Board of Trustees changed the nickname to simply "Gold". An intensely negative reaction by students, faculty, alumni, and fans led to yet another series of votes, which eventually pitted "Golden Eagles" against "Hilltoppers". Respondents were told in advance that write-in votes for "Warriors" would not be tabulated, although those results were later released, and "Golden Eagles" was restored in June 2005."

Change Grade: C+. Glad to see they got everything sorted out and they're sticking by their cartoon birdy. Next!

Eastern Michigan Eagles:

(...wth??)

Previously Known As: Hurons (1929-mid 80s)

...wow.... um....ok Eastern.

The name "Hurons" was adopted in 1929 and was the beloved name for the athletic department at EMU for nearly 60 years until the University began worrying about its name and possibly being a racial slur/stereotype. After an internal review, EMU board of regents voted to retire the Hurons name and adopt "Eagles" as recommended by an outside committee selected to suggest a new mascot name. 

Many alumni and fans of the school withdrew financial support and to this day their is actually two separate alumni associations, one in support of the eagles and one that's staunchly wanting the name "Hurons" to be returned. (the picture above is just one of many logos they currently use).

Change Grade: F. You'll find many sites where EMU fans and even some officials claim 'Hurons' is supported by certain tribes-many more also argue that 'Hurons' can be turned around in a way that Illinois kept their name, "Illini" and drop the Native American aspect of the mascot. The one argument that can't be made is the name 'Eagles' is dull, not creative and I can't help but feel that Dr. Suess played a hand in the drawing of their logo.

University of Miami (OH) Redhawks: 

Previously Known as: Redskins (1929-1997)

Prior to the nickname 'Redskins', the athletic squads at Miami were referred to as Miami Boys, Big Reds, Reds, and Red & Whites until the athletic director made it permanently Red Skins for nearly 70 years.

Interestingly, the school for a long time had the support of a particular Miami Tribe located in Oklahoma suddenly withdrew their support in 1997. The university quickly rid themselves of the name Redskins and then name Redhawks was voted as the university's new mascot.

Change Grade: B. Kind of lame considering I'm pretty sure 'redhawks' is not an actual species, but the logo is pretty solid.

St. John's Red Storm

Previously Known As: Redmen (1960s-1994)

Interestingly, St. John's originally called themselves "redman/redmen" for the fact of the team wearing red jerseys and uniforms. However, sometime in the '60s the term was developed into a Native American image and the university soon adopted the interpretation as its mascot until 1994, when mounting pressure led St John's officials to change the team name to its current moniker, the Red Storm.

Change Grade: D. It's pretty lame name, and the logo just screams minor league team all over it.

Louisiana-Monroe Warhwks

Previously Known As: "Indians" 

ULM has had quite a bit of change in the last 20 some-odd years-the university changed it's name from "Northeast Louisiana University" to its current incarnation and in 2006, the University President announced that because of the NCAA restrictions the NCAA set that year, virtually banning all logos with Native American imagery as well bans on hosting post season tournaments and appearances in the post well as well, ULM would be retiring their name. After letting the public submit various suggestions, a panel limited it down to 12 sections and from there was narrowed to three possibilities: "Bayou Gators, Bayou Hawks and Warhawks." The University President had the ultimate decision and he selected Warhawks.

Change Grade: B+. I remember I initially scoffed at the name, however after hearing the other two possibilties figured "...eh...could be worse." Nearly 8 years later, I actually think the name is pretty solid-the warhawk still looks like it just woke up/strung out from a kegger-but its been a good change for the school.

...But why make a film of your Mascot (Ace the Warhawk) robbing a register and then getting arrested?

North Dakota: ???

Previously Known As: Fighting Sioux

One of the last and longest holdout of all NCAA schools, the University of North Dakota were the Dan Snyder of college football, refusing to budge at removing the nickname despite NCAA crackdown, which included ban from the FCS playoffs, basketball tournaments and more postseason play. North Dakota even sued the NCAA-both parties reached an agreement: If UND could find a tribe to endorse their name, the NCAA would allow the university to keep their namesake. If not, the school would retire the name 'Fighting Sioux.' Ultimately, no support was found, yet many legislature, alumni and others continued their legal fight to keep the name but in June 2012, the state board of higher education offically voted to rid the university of the name.

Change Grade: (N/A). Due to an odd ruling, the North Dakota legislature prohibited the University from selected a new nickname and are barred from doing so until at least 2015. (Apparently to allow time for angered fans and individuals to 'cool off'). Currently, UND officials have not stated or released a timetable as to when a name might be selected.

Arkansas State Red Wolves

Previously Known As: Indians

I could literally write an ENTIRE BLOG of the history and name changing process that occured at Arkansas State (I was there for it!). But to try to sum up the basics, the university originally had Jumpin Joe (the guy on the left) as it's helmet decal and the 'stAte' logo as the offical university logo for a long time. In the 80s, they dropped Joe for the stAte logo. However, in 1996 they switched to what fans referred to as the "headress logo" (on the right) and was the primary university decal for nearly 10 years. When the NCAA imposed its native american restrictions, ASU dropped the headdress logo and went back to the stAte logo yet again. They slowly and methodically removed all native american imagery throughout their athletic department, yet kept the "Indian Family" (which were three students chosen to portray Chief Big Track, the Indian Princess and the Indian Warrior). The University tried in vain to find a tribe to endorse the name 'Indians', but the search proved fruitless. Finally, in 2007 the university announced the name Indians would be retired following the conclusion of the 2007-2008 athletic year. 

Similar to ULM, a website was selected for the public to suggest any names in the search-however, unlike ULM the university wouldn't allow a public vote for the name, instead relying solely on selected indivuals that would form a mascot search committee, and the chancellor ultimately making the final decision. Despite the initial outrage by this, the majority of public suggested "Wolves"-which was what the committee recommended to the Chancellor. Many (like myself) strongly supported 'Red Wolves' and the chancellor chose this as well.

Change Grade: A. Call me biased, but their's no denying this change was a huge boost for the program. It gave people an opportunity to get involved in the new identity of the athletic program, which in turn made new fans for ASU. A recent article by Talkbuisness.net revealed that "By percentage increase in sales, Arkansas State is 7th in the country for merchandise sales over the past five years." (You can read the full story here http://talkbusiness.net/2014/03/asu-mascot-offers-branding-lesson-ages/ ).

Their are a few more universities that changed their mascots as well, and here's a brief breakdown of those:

- Siena – Indians to Saints (1988)

- Seattle University – Chieftains to Redhawks (2000)

- Illinois – Removed Chief Illiniwek as official mascot in 2007. Athletics teams are still called Fighting Illini.

- Bradley and Alcorn State – Both schools stopped using Native American mascot but have retained their Braves nickname.

- William and Mary – Adjusted Tribe logo to remove feathers to comply with NCAA. Athletics teams are still called Tribe. (2007)

As of this post, only Florida State, Central Michigan, Mississippi College and Utah all appealed and won to the NCAA due to their friendly relationship and support of local tribes.

Grading Arkansas State's Last Four Head Coaches

To say that Arkansas State University has become the modern day "Cradle of Coaches" would obviously be a pretty darn fair assessment.

     Prior to the 2011 football season, Steve Roberts and many before him struggled to make the then Indians (ultimately Red Wolves) competitive let alone a successful, solid football program. Many forget (and many more simply don't realize) that Roberts didn't bring in Hugh after dismissing his long time colleague and offensive coordinator, Doug Ruse, after a dismal 4-8 campaign in 2009. He had originally hired Clayton Helton, which many fans saw as an astonishing coup for the Red Wolves as he had been a long time Running Backs/Quarterbacks/Wide Receiver and Offensive Coordinator for the Memphis Tigers. He coached the highly touted Deangelo Williams during his time in Memphis and spent two months with the Red Wolves before he was whisked away by the USC Trojans. He remains there to this day, and for the most part has been a solid get for the program. Having to scramble to get a new offensive coordinator in place before fall camp (especially one that ran a similar fast paced, hurry up style that Helton had begun to implement at ASU) when Hugh Freeze came into the picture. Freeze, who was two months into his first big time college gig as San Jose State's OC/QB coach, had become home sick and had hoped to land a gig closer to his native Senatobia, Mississippi. When ASU came calling, Freeze instantly took the opportunity.

     Freeze in barely two months time instilled his "basic playbook" in the players and coaches at Arkansas State and despite another 4-8 season in 2010, the team broke several school records, both in yardage and individual performances. Roberts was canned after that season and Freeze, who barely a year before was struggling to keep his NAIA Lambuth program afloat, became one of the youngest head coaches in the program's history.


    You know the rest of the story, or at least the important parts. Freeze completely turns ASU around, winning 10 games, clinching it's first outright conference title in over 20 years and leading the Red Wolves to only it's second bowl game as a FBS Division member. Then he left to become Ole Miss' head coach.

     Then the improbable....the one and only Gus Malzahn steps in to take over. He too leads the Red Wolves to an undisputed conference title and yet another bowl game. And then he quickly returns to the Plains of Auburn to be their head man.

    Bryan Harsin stumbled a bit, not quite reaching the high level of succeess as his two predecessors did but thanks to a little bit of outside luck, still secured ASU a share of the conference crown with yet another visit to the GoDaddy Bowl.

....then Harsin flew the coup back to his native Boise.

     Now, as we anxiously await how the Blake Anderson era will play out, I only seem it's necessary to review the previous head coaches more thoroughly, their highest and lowest moments, their defining game and the legacy they left behind. Finally, perhaps conjure an idea as to what mark Anderson will leave on his first (and dare I say ONLY) season at ASU.

Steve Roberts-"The Helmsman" 

When Steve Roberts became the 'captain' of ASU in 2002, he would've been at the helm of ship both sinking and lacking direction at once. Arkansas State joined the (what we now call) FBS level of college football in the early 90s and simply put-it was an ABYSMAL decade. The Indians were practically beaten left and right, belonged to the incredibly stretched out Big West Conference and all around play was pathetic. Roberts first season brought ASU it's first 6+ wins since 87!! The Helmsman not only steers but rights the ship and Steve Roberts did that. Though he never won more than six games at his time as the head coach, Steve rejuvenated recruiting, had the loyalty and respect of the majority of his players and oversaw the transition from "Indians" to "Red Wolves."

FINAL GRADE: C+
Though there can be hardly any doubt that Roberts turned the football program around, he ultimately fell short of winning the "important" games (Conference games) and only had one shared conference title and bowl appearance in 2005. Their were moments where his squads were both explosive on both sides of the ball and moments of utter incompetence and lack of urgency. Perhaps his most lasting impact on the program didn't come from his coaching or victories, but by bringing in Hugh Freeze as his offensive coordinator.

Most Impressive Victory: Texas A&M 2008

Though ASU floundered late in the 2008 season, this was and still is, the biggest win in the programs history. Leading the newly christened Red Wolves to College Station, Steve and his coaches completely shut down Mike Sherman and his Aggies Running game, and with clutch turnovers and timely plays, Arkansas State secured their as of this post only victory over a Power 5 program.

Hugh Freeze-"Game Changer"
Hugh Freeze was a man use to having little and making the absolute most of it. From his humble beginnings as a high school coach at Briarcrest Christian High School, and his first head coaching gig at Lambuth University, Freeze showed an uncanny ability to take a brick and build a house. He had taken an offense that was middle to bottom in conference statistics and catapult them to the top the next season-that was merely in a coordinator position. When he became head coach December of 2010, he quickly showed another fantastic ability-his charisma and mindset that he instilled to everyone he met and spoke with. As the 2011 season started and continued throughout the season he inspired not only his players but a fan base that for so many years had grown accustomed to mediocrity and "coming up short" to glory and success that hadn't occurred in over two decades. 'Gamechanger' is a term uttered so many times in the sports world...if you were to look it up in the dictionary, Freeze's face should be right next to the definition. I really wished we could have seen if Freeze would have kept the momentum going had he stayed on.

FINAL COACHING GRADE: A-
Simply put, it's absolutely incredible how Freeze took an ASU squad that went 4-8 and completely changed them to winners the next. He dominated the Sunbelt, going undefeated in conference play. The only thing keeping his grade from being an 'A+' was how slow it took for the offense to start clicking, with lackluster and sputtering performances against Illinois and Virginia Tech in weeks one and three. However once it finally hit a groove, they were nearly unstoppable.

Most Impressive Victory: Middle Tennessee

 Though the blowout victory against Memphis was the best the offense played all season and the clutch win over Lafayette was very important, I had to go with the Middle Tennessee game for a couple of reasons: 1, with this victory it clinched the conference title for the Red Wolves. Two, ASU had NEVER beaten the Blue Raiders in Murfreesboro since the two began Sunbelt conference play and was only the fourth victory ASU had over MTSU-this was the last roadblock between Arkansas State and history and though the Raiders made it close to the end half, Freeze rallied his team in the lockerroom and the Red Wolves dominated the second half to secure the win and more importantly, the conference title. Finally, after the game Freeze had informed the team that they had been invited to play in only their 2nd FBS bowl game.

Gus Malzahn-"The Next Level"
When it was formally announced that Gus Malzahn was leaving Auburn to become Arkansas State's head coach in December of 2011, it was a signal that ASU was indeed heading for a whole new level never experienced in the entire history of the program. When Freeze was head coach, he was the lowest paid coach in the Sunbelt Conference and one of the LOWEST paid head coaches in all division I college football (his base salary was a little over $200,000). Malzahn as a coordinator at Auburn was making well over that amount. Words alone cannot describe the universal shock and awe many felt when Malzahn stepped out of the plan with his wife and stood at the podium in Jonesboro. The impossible had happened...Hell indeed froze over that day. Publicly, Malzahn quipped it was the right place at the right time for him and his career...the fact Auburn lost virtually everybody from their 2011 National Championship team and the rumored "uneasy" relationship he had with Chizik also played a factor as well.

Though Malzahn slipped up to Western Kentucky, and his squad were utterly destroyed by both Oregon and Nebraska, his short stint in Jonesboro will probably the most remembered and storied season for ASU.

FINAL COACHING GRADE: B+
As previously mentioned, he was out-coached in the Hilltopper lost and Oregon and Nebraska simply ran the Red Wolves over. Much like Freeze, his offense got off to a slow and sputtering start. However, once the offensive production finally found itself in the FIU victory...it never let up. While Freeze won the nail biters and got comfortable wins, Malzahn annihilated everybody else in the conference, averaging over two touchdown victories in conference play. The way he left and particular things he said will linger (rather bitterly) in many ASU fans collective memory for a long time, however his impact will be felt for years to come.

MOST IMPRESSIVE VICTORY: UL-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns

Essentially, both this game and the ULM game were very big, impressive wins for Malzahn. Though the Warhawk match up was the more discussed game in the Natural State (mostly with ULM upsetting Arkansas earlier in the season) the Ragin Cajun domination was simply put-perfect. All three phases of ASU football team shined that night-the offense executed flawlessly, the defense got pressure on Broadway all game long and forced turnovers while the special teams added onto the scoreboard with several field goals.

Bryan Harsin-"Big Shoes to Fill"
When Bryan Harsin came into the picture, it wasn't a secret nor an unknown fact that he in fact had high levels of expectations to meet thanks to his last two predecessors. And it wasn't going to be easy-long time quarterback Ryan Aplin was gone, along with many clutch players. He was going to have to break in a new quarterback and instill an offensive scheme that, though similar to Freeze and Malzhan's, was still quite different Harsin claimed. With so much coaching turnover and talent graduating, at some point the ride has to take a drop and this occurred in Harsin's one year tenure. Though he was very charismatic and had a clean, young look his teams played very inconsistently. The Auburn game made him look like a fool when his team wore the anthracite jersey's and were hit with pre game penalties which put his outmatched defense in terrible positions, and Malzahn in fantastic scoring positions. Their was just something...missing with Harsin; as the old saying goes, he seemed to lack the "it" factor (though to be fair, first head coaching gig). Ultimately, this particular departure I believe was ultimately the best for all involved parties-Harsin was going back home to Boise State...the Bronco program had to pay ASU 1.4 million for Harsin' buyout and I feel they landed with a solid hire in Anderson (which we'll discuss in a bit).

FINAL COACHING GRADE: B-
As I stated above, the 2013 Red Wolves were very inconsistent throughout the season, particularly early on. The lowest point was the confusing 23-7 lost to the Cajuns at Jonesboro-the offense was simply not clicking and the D couldn't stop Broadway or the Cajun rushing attack. However, Harsin made without a doubt one of the best moves of his entire tenure-he handed over all play calling duties to Dirk and next thing you know, the Red Wolves came to life winning four straight. Thanks to some outside help from the Warhawks and the South Al, Astate and Lafayette ended sharing the conference title-although outright titles are always preferred, championships are championships and even though it was the Godaddy bowl, Red Wolves were going bowling for the third straight season. Ultimately, though Harsin's time at ASU was technically a step back from the previous two seasons, the results can't be ignored.

MOST IMPRESSIVE VICTORY: ULM

No doubt about this one: this was the Red Wolves finest performance during the Harsin tenure. ASU was clicking on all sides of the ball-the defense especially began getting the edge on the ULM offense, rattling Kolton Browning into making multiple mistakes and Astate capitalized. The one debbie downer of this game would be only wondering where this team had been all season long.

Blake Anderson: ???
So here we are again...Arkansas State's fifth head coach in five years. Though I will admit I was initially disappointed in the hire (I had been really pulling that ASU could nab Rhett Lashlee at Auburn or Clemson OC Chad Morris) after some time had passed, watching him talk and reading up on his career I feel much, much better about this hire. In terms of resume and experience, he's certainly got quite the padded portfolio with over twenty years of coaching experience at over seven universities. His demeanor is more traditional, hard nosed though his offensive philosophy is certainly modern day minded. Though he's back to square one with the quarterback position, he's certainly in a better spot than Harsin in that he has a guy that's actually played within the system and not transferring in like Adam Kennedy. He still has JD Mckissic and Michael Gordon, which is a plus-though he'll have to patch up the O-Line and with the lost of Kyle Coleman, he'll need to keep his fingers crossed that Arkansas transfer AJ Turner can not only play this season but keep the grades up.

The schedule is certainly an interesting on-playing a rebounding Tennessee Volunteers in Knoxville and going travelling back to Miami (except instead of FIU they get the 'U', Miami Hurricanes). A big time week four home matc hup with Mountain West Conference champions Utah State caps off the month of September. Conference play, having to go to Lafayette will be nasty and the Red Wolves will have to make the long trek to Moscow to take on the Vandals. However, the rest is a pretty big break for ASU and if Anderson can get the team clicking on cylinders fairly quickly, I feel pretty confident he can win 8-9 games.

Random Thoughts on Each 2014 Opponent

             Random Thoughts on Each 2014 Opponent

Welp, it's April...a little over four months away until the 2014 college football season is underway. And though it may seem like a long way off, it's never too soon nor early to start pondering on the upcoming season, especially on each upcoming opponet. So for this addition of the 'RamblinArkansan', I thought it'd be fun to discuss something quirky/interesting/fun about each of the Red Wolves upcoming 2014 opponents. So without further adieu....

Game #1: Montana State Bobcats

This comes from a Montana State alumni by the name of Cole Creichenberg, a digital editor for country radio station in Montana. Apparently Mr. Creichenberg wasn't pleased by his Universities decision to spend $18,000 dollars for an out of state marketing firm to upgrade MSU's logos...or more specifically, lack of upgrade. Quite honestly, I feel he definitely has an argument-They slightly changed fonts, added color and added slight details to the eyes and ears and that costs $18,000?? You can read Creichenberg's full blog here

Game #2: Tennessee Volunteers

The latest trend it seems is whenever ASU schedules fledgling/struggling SEC programs, not only do they dominate the Red Wolves but often end up having a ridiculous season (Auburn...Missouri...). Can the same be true for the Volunteers? Only time will tell, but their recruiting class they recently raked in certainly seems very, very impressive. While we contemplate, watch this Vols fan reaction to Alabama blocking Tennessee's potential game winning field goal (NSFW by the way lol...)

Game #3: Miami Hurricanes

The U!!!! Definitely could not believe we have a home and home series with Miami (granted, the return game in Jonesboro isn't taking place for another 3 years but still!). Though we'll probably lose this game, I'm still oober excited for this. Whenever Miami and Sunbelt football get brought up, then you HAVE to watch this video of the Miami/FIU brawl from 2006 lol.

Game #4: Utah State Aggies

To me, this is a BIG, CRUCIAL game for the Red Wolves. Astate and the Utah State are very similar programs in terms of where both programs have been and where they're both currently trending towards. The Aggies have become a respectable program and were one win away from being Mountain West Conference championships. To me, this game is a measuring stick of if ASU can keep up the momentum they've built the last three seasons and this win would go a long way for the continued success of the football program. Speaking of coming a long way, check out the Aggies logo history! 

Game #5: UL-Monroe Warhakws

Ohhh the chicken hawks...What can I say? You're the little program that keeps on chuggin' along. The way I always look at this annual match-up is when we win, good! sweet...we're suppose to bear ULM. When we lose, i'm aggravated... like losing to your little sibling in a game of horse aggravated. Here's hoping we continue our winning streak again the Warhawks (have won the last four against them!). I will say this: Did you know ULM has a water ski team and they've won 20 national championships? Take a look!

Game #6: Georgia State Panthers

The new FIU to the Sunbelt, I have a feeling the GSU program were super stoked to be division I and invited to the belt upon initially reaction...and then super bummed when they found out Georgia Southern was coming along. 

Hey! Here's a picture of rapper Ludacris repin' a Georgia State! Cute!

Game #7: UL-Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns

I refuse to call them "Louisiana" and until they get a state mandated confirmation they can change their name to "Louisiana" they'll forever be known as LALA. It's absolutely insane how stubborn cajun fans strive to have themselves refer as Louisiana; it's as if by having the state moniker instead of their actual university name it'll make them "super legit." They finally beat us the past season after winning two straight, and had to share the conference title, which to me I don't actually mind as this really adds on to the hatred both programs have for one another (players, staff and fan wise). 

SPEAKING OF LA LA FANS!!! ....

haha couldn't help myself. The Cajuns are beginning renovations for their stadium and judging from artist renditions, I will admit it looks great!

Game #8: Idaho Vandals

The last time ASU played in the Kibbie Dome, quite a lot was going down in the year 2004. Crazy to think the Pistons were A)good and B)beat the Lakers 4-1 for the NBA Title among other things. Both teams were conference foes and now will once again will be, albeit Arkansas State has changed dramatically, both name wise and overall competitiveness. Idaho, on the other, has been down in the dumps. But hey, look on the bright side Vandals fans! You have two things going for you (From what my google search hast turned up):

These guys have a bright future in the WWE...

Need I say more?

Game #9: South Alabama Jaguars

First off, I have high props and nothing but mad respect for the USA program. They've got great leadership in the athletic department, huge money being thrown into their relatively young program and if they can ever get an on-campus stadium, the sky's the limits for the Jaguars. The first two games with South Al have been tremendous battles for the Red Wolves and I suspect the November 8th match-up will be yet another one.

If you've never seen their football complex and facilities, check it out!

Game #10: Appalachian State Mountaineers

A very interesting addition to the Sunbelt, I'm definitely looking forward to this match-up of the "ASU's". They had a bumpy season last year and I think they'll probably have another year of adjusting, but hey who can forget this?!

Game #11: Texas State Bobcats

 The Bobcats enter year two of the 'Belt, and I foresee San Marcos bunch to have a very solid year and no doubt give the Red Wolves a fight. Have you ever seen the Texas State Bobcats logo? No? Take a look see!

Pretty cool logo but don't think about slappin' it on a t-shirt. Texas State officials are very protective of their logo-just ask Texas Valley High School

Game #12: New Mexico State Aggies

Whew! A lot of 'State's' we know! NMSU, much like Idaho, are coming back to the Belt as conference members and it's been a while since ASU took a trip to Las Crus, New Mexico to take on the Aggies (2003!). But if you think this is going to be cakewalk for the Wolfpack you better think twice! These rabid Aggies fans are definitely going to give Aggie Memorial Stadium a scary home-field advantage!

OH! Speaking of New Mexico State and Brawls earlier...

Should be a very interesting 2014 season for the Red Wolves, and if we can quickly reload on both offensive and defensive lines and if Fredi Knighten can actually throw completions down field, I imagine it'll be yet another fantastic year for Arkansas State.

The Current and Future of the SunBelt Football Conference

 

     When the football conference started in 2001, it was made primarily of universities recently hopping to Division I status and those already Division I, yet were the laughing stock of NCAA Football. Arkansas State, Middle Tennessee, Troy, UL-Monroe, UL-Lafayette, North Texas, New Mexico State and Idaho were the founding football members. Though the first few years many if not all struggled for prominence and success, the conference and it's members gradually over the course of it's 13 year existence have found a little recognition and some resemblance of accomplishments. Its also seen it's share of deserters and newcomers, beginning when Troy came along in 2004, then New Mexico State and Idaho left for the WAC Conference. Then Sunbelt brought in Florida International and Florida Atlantic, both of whom had only began a football programs 3-5 years previously, came along to compensate for the loss. Western Kentucky, who had been long time members in the Sunbelt in all sports except football, finally moved their FCS level program to Division I, joining the football ranks in 2009. The Sunbelt, it appeared would finally have some sense of stability, until the recent wave of realignment kicked in in 2011-12 in the collegiate ranks. It hit the Sunbelt when founding members North Texas and Middle Tennessee along with Florida Atlantic, Florida International and Western Kentucky all received invites and left when invited to join Conference USA (CUSA).

     Despite so much turnover, the conference has attempted to carry on with the remaining programs and to recoup their losses once again has dipped into the FCS Level, adding another football program upstart (Georgia State), and snatching Appalachian State and Georgia Southern, the top two programs in terms of success and national championships the last several seasons in the FCS. Recently, the commissioner of the Sunbelt, Karl Benson, has been quoted in many news outlets and sources that the SunBelt is "actively looking to add a 12th member by June 1st of this year." Benson has made it no secret he wants a 12th member in football in order to secure a conference championship game. Though he's not publicly announced which schools he and the other administration members are targeting, he recently told Jeremy Fowler of CBS Sports that "4-6 schools are vying to be the 12th member." Benson has also made it clear that one priority when considering the 12th member is someone to "stabilize the east" and "ensuring "Appalachian State a traveling partner." One final aspect Benson has been quoted as saying he's focusing on when deciding on which school to invite is someone that can become a FULL member-meaning they will join the conference in all sports, not just football.

     So with all this in mind, I decided for this addition of the "Ramblin' Arkansan Blogs" to focus on the popular internet rumors that have been speculated throughout the internet as well some I would personally think should be considered.

First off, here's a map showing the current members of the SunBelt Conference:

Before we continue, let me first say that 'No...I didn't place a random red dot on Idaho by mistake...' The University of Idaho AND New Mexico State are back in the Sunbelt, as football only members. Their had been some speculation and rumors that NMSU might have a full conference invitation, but according to the beat writer at The Advertiser in Lafayette, Louisiana, the Aggies are no longer in consideration for that. (And with the recent thug antics by the NMSU basketball team, who want's them??).  Now, as you can see by the graphic above, the Sunbelt is going to be an EXTREMELY stretched out conference. Why Benson is so adamant about getting App. State a travel partner in the East I have no idea (I thought this is why Georgia Southern received an invite seeing how both were former members together in the FCS conference, the Southern Conference). To me, the real focus should be getting Idaho, NMSU and Texas State a traveling mate that's sandwiched by all three, but I'll dive into my own thoughts and ideas later on this blog. For now, we'll go with what Karl wants, which is a team in the East.  Several University programs have been tossed around, two in particular which have publicly expressed desire to join the Sunbelt/Division I:

Liberty University Flames

In fact, Liberty has publicly spoken out about being very receptive to joining the Sunbelt conference and in fact almost did join the conference some years back, were ultimately rejected by the members of the Sunbelt Conference (FYI, in the 'Belt, a potential member must receive 75% or more Yes votes in order to be extended an invitation). By all my research and google searches, it appears Liberty has appropriate athletic budget in order to be a viable Division I member-they went 8-4 last year in the Big South Conference, were conference champions in 2007 and 2008, and are coached by former Buffalo Bulls and Kansas Jayhawks coach, Turner Gill. Located in Lynchburg, Virginia they appear to qualify for every factor that Benson has stated he's looking for in a 12th member. But perhapswhat hurts their chances is the fact of Liberty being a private, and (how they describe themselves), "largest evangelical christian" university in the world. Not saying their's anything wrong with this, but it doesn't match public university demographic all the current members have in the Sunbelt. On top of that, the University's enrollment is primarily made up of online students, with a little over 12,000 on campus students. (FUN FACT: The School was founded by famous televangelist Jerry Falwell, in 1971). It should be strongly be pointed out that the Flames seem to be Benson's top choice right now to become the 12th member, so until the announcement comes it has to be assumed Liberty is the leading candidate.

James Madison University Dukes

      The other leading candidate would be the JMU Dukes, of the Colonial Athletic Association. They shocked the college football world in 2010 when they went to Blacksburg, Virginia and knocked off the Hokies of Virginia Tech. They've longed mantained strong and steady success in football, having won the FCS National Championship in 2004, four conference titles and numerous appearances in the FCS playoffs. With nearly 20,000 students and also located in Virginia, they would seem to be the perfect 12th member in Karl's eyes: However, JMU officials have made it clear numerous times they were NOT interested in a Sunbelt invite; many rumors have circulated the Dukes are hoping for a C-USA invite, and recently it's been speculated the Mid-American Conference might invite them to become the conference's 14th member.  

The additional rumored candiates are:

 Eastern Kentucky Colonels

 Tenn. Chattanooga Mocs

Missouri State Bears

All three schools have one point in time either have done internal studies to decide whether Division I status was popular and/or expressed desires to move on up. It was recently revealed that Tennessee Chattanooga program was actually approached by the Sunbelt on the possibility of moving up, but declined stating the University wasn't quite ready to move up, but were open to the idea in the future. Seemingly, EKU and Missouri State don't appear fully ready nor committed in moving up to full Division I status, and seem at this time unlikely to become the 12th member, especially by the June 1st deadline. Finally, one foreboding problem for the Bears is geography-take a look below:

The "X" on the map above signifies where Missouri State is located. Judging from what we know as of now, the divisions are essentially going to be divided by the Mississippi river, with the Western teams on the left side and the Eastern Division on the right hand side. Benson has made it known he's focusing on a "Eastern team"-Missouri State is obviously on the wrong side. Of course the divisions could always be swapped around, though I imagine you would have a hard time breaking up the Louisiana, Alabama and Georgia Schools.

WHO I FEEL SHOULD BE CONSIDERED:

So, as I hinted at at the beginning of this blog, I don't really know why Karl is so insistent on getting an "EAST team". Yes Karl, I understand the closest member to App. State is Georgia State, which is approximately just under 5 hours away by bus for the Mountaineers. However, their longest divisional foe would be South Alabama, which is located almost 9 1/2 hours away in Mobile. That is no where near as bad as the Western division members travelling: Lets look at a comparison by using my beloved Red Wolves as an example:

CLOSET CONFERENCE FOE: ULM Warhwaks (Travel time by bus: 5 hours)

FARTHEST CONFERENCE FOE: Idaho (1 hour bus from jonesboro to memphis, 6-8 hours flight time to boise, then another 5 1/2 hours to Moscow).

They would to do this EVERY YEAR, ON TOP OF TRAVELING TO LAS CRUS, NEW MEXICO (which by the way is 1,127 miles away)/.

Again, referring to the maps displayed throughout this blog, the potential eastern division is relatively clustered together. The potential Western division is completely spread out beyond ridiculous proportions. I think if anything, Karl needs to be focusing on a travel partner for Idaho and New Mexico State. Who might you ask? Though I will admit the pickings are pretty slim, I do have a few ideas:

 PERKS:

-Located in Flagstaff, great tourist city

-Great support and stable program

-Great facility in the Walkup Dome (used for football, basketball and other sports)

Negatives:

-Only sponsors 5 events for men, though they do offer 8 for women.

-Seems pretty comfortable as a FCS member

-Could/Would they support adding the additional scholarships needed to become FBS level member?

PERKS:

-Geographic wise, It appears almost a halfway point between Idaho and New Mexico State which could help with traveling costs for the two schools.

-With nearly 100,000 people residing in Greeley (where UNC is located) again seems to be a great size city to have an SBC affiliated team.

-Made the NCAA basketball tournament in 2011 and have made 10 appearances in the College World Series.

-Though not a football member, the Sunbelt did have a full sport member located in Colorado for 13 years (Denver Pioneers anyone?).

Negatives:

-The Bears have only been at FCS level for about 8 years now, and appear not ready to jump immediately to FBS Level.

-Number of home games in 2012: 7. Total number of spectators for a UNC football game: 26,764. AVERAGE: 3,823. Not going to cut the Division I Attendance requirements.

PERKS:

-Huge enrollment with over 20,000 students attending.

Negatives:

-Not enough men's sports offered (6)

-Not really ideally located

-Lack of interest or support to warrant an invite

In all honesty, take a look at the conference member map: Even with NMSU way out west, they don't nearly stick out awkwardly as the Vandals do. Simply put, Karl threw them a bone they desperately and emphatically snatched in an instant. They don't belong (AS MUCH AS I DO LOVE THE KIBBIE DOME WHICH IS PICTURED BELOW):

The vandals need to accept reality that they aren't a division I player and go back to the Big Sky conference, where they once dominated. Though NMSU has struggled in the last several seasons, I believe they still have potential (though it's going to take A LOT of work) to get them to become a viable player in the conference. Let's assume we boot Idaho out; all we're concerned with now is finding the Aggies a travel buddy to help ease the distance with the rest of the members: once again using our handy dandy map graphic here are the most viable and probable potential candidates:

So between ASU and NMSU, their are six FCS schools in the state of texas with football programs (Keep in mind the Red dot signifies current Sunbelt mate, Texas State). Their are actually two additional programs, Praire View A&M and Texas Southern University, however both aren't capable nor viable options to move up Division I so they're out of the question. The following six schools are:

Brown-Abilene Christian University Wildcats (Abilene, Texas)

Green-Incarnate Word Cardinals (San Antonio, Texas)

Blue-Lamar University Cardinals (Beumont, Texas)

Gold-Houston Baptist Cougars (Houston, Texas)

Purple-Sam Houston State Bearkats (Huntsville, Texas)

Pink-Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks (Nacogdoches, Texas)

Their are no other choices relatively close for the Aggies-if they want a conference mate they gotta have another Texas one with Texas State. Abilene Christian, Incarnate Word and Houston Baptist are ALL just starting their football program, so I'd say they're easily out. That leaves...

 Technically, Lamar has recently started their football back up after decades of being suspended, but they have recently completed an extensive renovation of their stadium as well as having established history with both Louisiana schools and Arkansas State (Lamar and Lafayette even once battled for the Sabine Trophy for several years). They've been 15-22 since their "rebirth" in 2011, and seemingly have solid support so far.

Both Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston State both have been members of the Southland conference since 1987. SHSU Bearkats have been the primarily more successful program, having won one FCS national championship with five conference titles and several apperances in the FCS Playoffs. The lumberjacks of Stephen F. Austin success on the field have been less but still boast strong and passionate fanbase as do the Bearkats.

One GLARINGLY problem is the former Southland members: Arkansas State, UL-Monroe and UL-Lafayette. All three have made it abundantly clear they want nothing to do with the Southland Conference whatsoever which means instantly shooting down any possibility of any current member of the SLC to join the Sunbelt. I find this a little humorous, seeing how Texas State was a member of the Southland for over 25 years from 1987 to 2012 before moving up to the division I level, joining the WAC when they still sponsored football play. 

FINAL THOUGHTS:

     The future of the Sunbelt conference is murky to say the least. Though significant strides of improvement have been achieved the last 4-5 years, the future of the conference remains in doubt. Each member seemingly is ready at an instant notice to bolt for C-USA or even the MAC in some rumblings I've read. If theirs going to be football in the Sunbelt Conference's future, it's going to come down to this 12th member in my opinion. One thing to keep in mind here that many forget is this: Karl Benson doesn't have the FINAL say of the 12th member, the school's president's do. Benson can only make a recommendation, make his case and answer questions as to why he'd suggest said school. That's it. Ultimately, the current Universities leaders are the ones that will keep the boat afloat or sink it. If you can't tell by this incredibly extensive article, their doesn't seem to be at all any universal consensus as to what, or if any, of the said mentioned schools have a chance at getting an offer.

The one school that does want in, Liberty, has already been voted down once. It seems very apparent the current conference mates don't want a private, evangelical christian school as a member. Truthfully, I don't blame them-I respect their history and tradition but their universal agenda doesn't mesh well with current members, despite their impressive athletic budget and facilities.

James Madison, despite also having great facilities and fantastic enrollment numbers, doesn't appear to want to be involved with the 'Belt at this time-end of story.

Eastern Kentucky, Missouri State, Tennessee Chattanooga-established football programs, all three in states without sunbelt representation and located in ideal cities. All three however, either unsure or incapable of taking the necessary steps to become division I, at least before June 1st.

When it's all said and done, I think Missouri State would be the best selection. Their fans from all indication seems enthusiastic about a future in the Sunbelt and if Missouri can be in the SEC East, why not Missouri State in the Sunbelt Eastern division? Their could be a potential great border war for ASU and MSU much like what they're trying to do with Arkansas and Missouri and though I wouldn't oppose the idea of EKU in joining the conference, it appears the Bears are much more ahead both financially, fan support and athletically wise to make "the big move" than the Colonels. Finally, I think a case could and has been made for Lamar to join-though still young and so far off to a stumbling start back in playing football, their's much history with a three of the prominent league members already and their could a instate rivalry with Texas State. And the fact that the administration and the student body were able to vote to approve to bringing back the program to fielding a team in such a short amount of time (Four years!) is enough to convince me that a transition to FBS level could be easily sustainable if allowed to occur.

Until June 1st comes, we can only speculate and ponder as to who this mysterious 12th member could and very well may be.