Art, I did the same thing by picking SJU to win it all a few years ago. It's tough to not vote with your heart.

I hesitate to share this because it's out and out bragging, but I finished 5th out of 383 entrants in the D3 Bracket Challenge on the strength of picking UWRF to win the championship. I believe that Art was among the leaders for a several rounds but made the mistake of picking Bethel to go all the way. (I was done in by the Christopher Newport quadrant.)

I don't post here much because my football experience is limited to playing one year in 8th grade, and my MIAC connections are getting a Master's from Hamline and paying the tuition for our daughter to attend St. Ben's. However, I think I was influenced by the wisdom and insights I gleaned from this board when making my bracket picks, so thanks folks.

Let's say the Johnnies beat GAC but lose to Bethel in the championship game. I assume Bethel gets the AQ. Johnnies still 8-2, but now with a "better" second loss. Still 8-2, probably an even better SOS, still have two RRO wins. Do they get a bid?

Interesting story by Pat Borzi on the Tommies' jump to D!, including the role played by the Summit League commissioner.

https://www.minnpost.com/education/2020/09/painful-and-seemingly-endless-how-the-university-of-st-thomas-made-the-jump-to-division-i/

This article by Pat Borzi about UST moving to D1 s in today's New York Times:

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/27/sports/ncaafootball/st-thomas-division-i.html?action=click&module=MoreInSection&pgtype=Article&region=Footer&contentCollection=Sports

Is there no bracket challenge this year? When I go to d3 challenge.com, it says, "There's something new on the horizon. Coming in Fall 2020."

Looks like a Johnnie is responsible for Allianz hosting the Johnnie-Tommie game next year.  Here is the story:

https://www.minnpost.com/sports/2018/12/why-minnesota-united-football-club-decided-to-host-an-actual-football-game-at-its-fancy-non-football-stadium/

Quote from: OzJohnnie on November 18, 2018, 03:32:40 AM
Oh, it must also be said.  As good as the Johnnie execution is, the replay guy is exactly as awful.  Whatever sports broadcast tool they are using, they need another.  BU's is much better as it has slo-mo replays and variable length at a minimum.  We need an upgrade.  I don't mind paying but I want near broadcast quality if I'm putting out the cash.

Also, Trost is extremely quick.  As he puts some more meat on his bones over this summer (he's only 180) I reckon he'll turn into a first team threat next year as a sophomore.

With Trost's speed, I wonder if the coaches have considered having him return kick-offs during the play-offs?  Seems like he would be a threat to break some long ones.

Quick FYI: I've been following this board for about six years, but this is my first post.  I wanted to to let my skin grow some extra layers before wading into the occasional melee. 

Also, bennie, I hope you don't take offense (or for Oz, offence) at my choice of handles.  Not trying to steal your thunder.  BennieDad is just the best description of my status.