The Number 2.

You got the silver you got the gold
You got the diamonds from the mine
Well that's all right, it'll buy some time.


Today is a landmark day for FootPolitics. Not only have I just successfully (in my mind) combined the gravelly insight of Keith Richards, the absurdity of the Olympics, the crazed scramble to name NCAA's second-best football squad, and the exponentially more absurd frenzy surrounding the naming of the two VP candidates in one simple three-lined tribute, but I also began watching replays of 2007's best games on my various newly-acquired FOX affiliate stations. Nine more days, with the Beijing Games and a Convention thrown in for side dishes. I think I can make it to our just desserts.

Without further complications, here is a loosely-compiled list of potential Veepstakes winners paired with the football team of my completely subjective (and loosely geographical) choice that has an equal chance of finishing #2 (in no particular order):


Joe Biden/Oklahoma

Serious credentials, but a sure bet for controversy. Just as Stoops can't seem to keep over-eager alumni from greasing the wheels of Big Red Motors, Joe just can't seem to keep his trap shut. Makes sense on paper, but won't happen considering recent history.

Tom Ridge/Penn State

Both have time-honored records and have served valiantly both in the distant and recent pasts. Both also have some kind of quirk or irascibility, be it penchant for recruiting questionable characters or controversial issue stances, that will probably hinder more than hurt them this year.

Evan Bayh/Ohio State

Solid, consistent performers who are seemingly completely uncomfortable being in the spotlight.

Sarah Palin/BYU

This is more of a stretch. This Alaska Governor just might possess enough quirky appeal to appear in the big dance. The odds of BYU being not only the next BCS-crasher, but MNC contender, are slightly worse.

Tim Kaine/WVU

Flashy, exciting, doubtful. But you feel that they'll get there someday.

Tim Pawlenty/Michigan

New concepts are both interesting: Minnesota conservatives and new Wolverine coaches. Unfortunately, both are still boring to watch. The odds of Rodriguez winning the Big 10 are infinitely better than the odds of McCain winning Minnesota. That's not saying much. And really, why else would he pick this guy?

Jim Webb/Virginia Tech

Reliable and tough on defense. Unfortunately, both lack any kind of punch offensively which is key in VP politics and any conference outside of the ACC.

Bobby Jindal/LSU

Young, unproven, not mainstream, appealing to malcontents. But repeating successes is always more difficult.