Talking Points 12/2

1

Talking Points thinks Scott Alvery, a member of the Holiday Bowl board, was guilty of a bit of spin when discussing the Washington Huskies potentially playing in the San Diego game.

Here’s what he told the Seattle Times: “Washington showed all the things you want to see from a bowl team. They had a strong showing of alumni and support (at Cal) even though it was a rainy, cold holiday weekend. They were still there.’’

Yeah, Alvery must be thrilled to be getting a 6-6 team ranked near the bottom of the nation in defense.

With just three Pac-10 teams bowl eligible, the Holiday Bowl figures to be required to take UW — if the Huskies can beat WSU and become bowl eligible itself. If the Huskies do prevail, their Holiday Bowl opponent likely will be Missouri.

2

Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh said recruiting commitments will prevent him from attending a Michigan banquet tonight at which the 1985 team will be honored. That was going to be uncomfortable, because Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez is under fire and Harbaugh is seen as a possible successor.

Just to update, the Wolverines are 15-21 in three years under Rodriguez, but improved to 7-5 this season and will go to a bowl. It is unclear if athletic director David Brandon will keep RichRod around for the final year of his contract or cut ties and start the process of looking for a new head coach.