--Watch out for the little dudes with halos next year in southern Cali. The Angels have now added Torii Hunter, Jon Garland and are still on the hunt for Johan Santana. Garland adds to an already strong pitching staff and with Hunter joining Garrett Anderson and Vlad Guerrero the Angels should be a force in the AL next season.
--One rumor making its way around the Hot Stove league is that Omar Minaya, GM of the NY Mets, might be willing to part ways with shortstop Jose Reyes in the Mets' pursuit of the aforementioned free agent ace Johann Santana. Hmmmmmmmm...........
--LSU head coach Les Miles has received permission, or rather Michigan has received permission from LSU, for Miles to interview for the head coaching position at Big Blue. Miles has said publicly that nothing will happen until after the SEC Championship game this weekend but I know that he's chomping at the bit for that coveted job. Miles is definitely a good fit for the job, having played and coached at Michigan under the legendary Bo Schembechler. My only question is that if he thinks it's tough in Baton Rouge losing to an unranked opponent, costing your team a shot at glory, what does he think is going to happen in Ann Arbor?
--Ole' Miss introduced new head coach Houston Nutt today. This only 5 days after Nutt led Arkansas to a major upset win over #1 ranked LSU in Baton Rouge. I guess going 8-4 and getting a bowl game for the school (translation here, bowl game=$$$$$$) wasn't enough for the Arkansas faithful. Players love playing for the guy and by all accounts he runs a good program. Definitely Arkansas' loss and Ole' Miss' gain. But at least Arkansas gets to host the International Redneck Olympics again next year.......oh wait, it's held there EVERY year.
--It is really a shame that many media outlets are using the tragic death of Sean Taylor to somehow draw a parallel between athletes and crime. Taylor had some scrapes with the law in the past but over the last year or so had greatly matured not only as a team leader but as a man and a father. He was a young man who made some poor choices, but was able to refocus himself on his career and his family and was headed towards what I believe to be not only a great career and towards being the best father to his daughter that he could. We all haven't been fortunate enough to live in the 'burbs with Buffy and Biff, go to the club for Sunday brunch and drive Mommy and Daddy's expensive cars around. But just because we don't doesn't mean we are all thugs, gangsters or white trash. From accounts of those that knew him Taylor grew up in a very loving home with a father who is still a police officer. Let's all reserve judgement until all the facts are in and let's not lose sight of the fact that a young, talented father and son has lost his life in another senseless act of violence.
--Does anyone still watch the NHL in the U.S.? How can you consider a sport a "major" player when they don't even have a television contract with anything resembling a major network or player in the sports market? Locally there are some games available and if you want to pay extra you can get several different packages through your satellite provider but is that enough? Recent studies have shown that both NASCAR and MMA events such as The Ultimate Fighter and UFC PPV have now surpassed hockey dropping it to seventh on the list of watched sports.
--To everyone complaining about the NFL Network's coverage of the Cowboys-Packers game this week, get over it. I remember when ESPN started carrying both college and pro games and everyone complained because they couldn't get ESPN. Now with satellite dishes springing up like gold teeth at a 50 Cent concert, it's pretty easily available. If your cable company doesn't offer the NFL Network, go get a satellite dish. It's cheaper anyway, the picture is better and more channels to choose from. Just quit whining!!
Have a great rest of the week.........and Go Packers!!!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
NFL Predictions: Week 13
Everyone please remember the family and friends of Sean Taylor, the Pro Bowl safety of the Washington Redskins who tragically passed away today after being shot during a home invasion early Monday morning. Taylor was a dynamic player and when he was on the field, no one gave it any more or played any harder than Sean Taylor. After some clashes with authority both on and off the field his first couple of years, the birth of his daughter Jackie last year seemed to have matured Taylor and he was fast becoming a leader on the Redskins defense and seemed destined for greatness. Another young life cut short by violence, it is so incredibly sad. The whole NFL community will remember Sean Taylor this weekend at stadiums around the country and let's all keep his family, friends and especially his 1 yr. old daughter Jackie in our thoughts and prayers. Forward we go.
I nailed it last week, going 6-1. I should be charging $50 a shot for this info, but hey, what are friends for, so here we go with Week 13 in the NFL:
Green Bay @ Dallas: These two teams have a storied history of great games in the NFL. They played what may be one of the greatest championship games in NFL history, the 1967 NFL Championship game, known fondly as "The Ice Bowl". This year these teams have pretty identical stats and are both 10-1 going into this game. Although Favre is 0-8 in trips to Dallas, no one is playing better QB right now in the NFL than Brett Favre. Green Bay +7.
Buffalo @ Washington: This game is going to be an incredibly emotional time for the Redskins. They are going to play their hearts out for their fallen teammate, question is can they focus enough to get the win. I say yes. Washington -5 1/2.
Detroit @ Minnesota: This game may have big playoff implications. The wildcards are still wide open in the NFC and the winner of this game may have enough momentum to guide them to the playoffs. Minnesota's defense looked fantastic last week against the Giants. Adrian Petersen looks like he will play this week. Minnesota -3 1/2.
Denver @ Oakland: Simply put, this is a must win for Denver if they have any hope of making the playoffs. Denver - 3 1/2.
NY Giants @ Chicago: The Giants need a win badly to stay in the playoff hunt, as do the Bears. Chicago has consistently been inconsistent this year and can't seem to string two good games together. I look for that trend to continue and the Giants to bounce back from the trouncing they took from Minnesota last week. NY Giants -2.
Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh needs a good showing to silence the critics and regain momentum towards the playoffs after losing to the Jets and barely getting by Miami this past Monday night in the Slog Bowl. Cincinnati has been a huge disappointment this season and in my opinion, coach Marvin Lewis' job is on the line. See ya Marv. Pittsburgh -7.
New England @ Baltimore: I know the Pats were almost upset last week by the Eagles. I also know that Baltimore has maybe the worst looking offense in the league right now.I usually love these big lines, but this could be really embarrassing really early. New England -20 1/2.
Bonus Picks************
Tennessee & LSU (SEC Championship game, Atlanta): I've said all year LSU was overrated. Last week Arkansas proved it. Coach Les Miles said this week that they were undefeated in regulation play. I guess when you blow your chance at a national championship by losing to an unranked team you can always find excuses. On his worst day Phillip Fulmer outcoaches Les Miles. Tennessee +7 1/2.
Missouri & Oklahoma (Big 12 Championship game, San Antonio): I'm not even going to pretend to be objective here. Goooooooooooo Tigers!!! Missouri +3.
Good luck and enjoy the games.
I nailed it last week, going 6-1. I should be charging $50 a shot for this info, but hey, what are friends for, so here we go with Week 13 in the NFL:
Green Bay @ Dallas: These two teams have a storied history of great games in the NFL. They played what may be one of the greatest championship games in NFL history, the 1967 NFL Championship game, known fondly as "The Ice Bowl". This year these teams have pretty identical stats and are both 10-1 going into this game. Although Favre is 0-8 in trips to Dallas, no one is playing better QB right now in the NFL than Brett Favre. Green Bay +7.
Buffalo @ Washington: This game is going to be an incredibly emotional time for the Redskins. They are going to play their hearts out for their fallen teammate, question is can they focus enough to get the win. I say yes. Washington -5 1/2.
Detroit @ Minnesota: This game may have big playoff implications. The wildcards are still wide open in the NFC and the winner of this game may have enough momentum to guide them to the playoffs. Minnesota's defense looked fantastic last week against the Giants. Adrian Petersen looks like he will play this week. Minnesota -3 1/2.
Denver @ Oakland: Simply put, this is a must win for Denver if they have any hope of making the playoffs. Denver - 3 1/2.
NY Giants @ Chicago: The Giants need a win badly to stay in the playoff hunt, as do the Bears. Chicago has consistently been inconsistent this year and can't seem to string two good games together. I look for that trend to continue and the Giants to bounce back from the trouncing they took from Minnesota last week. NY Giants -2.
Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh needs a good showing to silence the critics and regain momentum towards the playoffs after losing to the Jets and barely getting by Miami this past Monday night in the Slog Bowl. Cincinnati has been a huge disappointment this season and in my opinion, coach Marvin Lewis' job is on the line. See ya Marv. Pittsburgh -7.
New England @ Baltimore: I know the Pats were almost upset last week by the Eagles. I also know that Baltimore has maybe the worst looking offense in the league right now.I usually love these big lines, but this could be really embarrassing really early. New England -20 1/2.
Bonus Picks************
Tennessee & LSU (SEC Championship game, Atlanta): I've said all year LSU was overrated. Last week Arkansas proved it. Coach Les Miles said this week that they were undefeated in regulation play. I guess when you blow your chance at a national championship by losing to an unranked team you can always find excuses. On his worst day Phillip Fulmer outcoaches Les Miles. Tennessee +7 1/2.
Missouri & Oklahoma (Big 12 Championship game, San Antonio): I'm not even going to pretend to be objective here. Goooooooooooo Tigers!!! Missouri +3.
Good luck and enjoy the games.
Monday, November 26, 2007
NFL News and Notes: 11/26/07
--Pittsburgh-3, Miami-0. That may have been the worst NFL game I have ever seen. Steve Young said after the game that it really wasn't a test of skill because of poor field conditions. When you're making the kind of money these guys make, you should be able to perform upside down naked on concrete if you have to. The Steelers were lucky to escape with the win, if you can call it that.
--Speaking of MNF, Michael Wilbon of ESPN's "Pardon the Interruption" basically said at halftime that this season especially shows why there should be a playoff system in college football. While I agree that there should be a playoff system similar to what the lower divisions use, why "especially" this year? Oh, I know. It's because two teams like Mizzou and West Virginia have a chance to play for the championship instead of one of the network sweethearts like Notre Dame or USC or Ohio St. Wait, last year Ohio St. played for the championship and got their ASSES kicked by Florida, that's right. I remember.
--Andy Reid said today that IF Donovan McNabb is healthy, he's their QB. After the Eagles near-upset of New England last night, you have to wonder why in the world wouldn't you at least consider starting A.J. Feely. Reid is a loyal guy to a fault sometimes, and this loyalty will probably cost him his job. Both NcNabb and Reid will be gone from Philly at the end of the year.
--Baltimore and Carolina also will be looking for new head coaches at the end of this season. Brian Billick's putrid offense continues to sputter and after firing offensive coordinator Jim Fassel last year and taking over play calling duties, well...........enough said. Carolina's John Fox is gone as well. Carolina has simply struggled all year. The talent seems to be there but there is something missing, something that a coach like.....oh.......say........Bill Cowher might be able to find?
--The Patriots looked almost human Sunday night. Is it possible that the magic is wearing off, have they finally hit the wall? Um..........nah!!!
--Cleveland in the playoffs. You don't get to say those words in the same sentence very often.
--All of our thoughts and prayers go out to Redskin's safety Sean Taylor and his family. Taylor was shot in his home early Monday morning by an intruder and is in critical condition. Let's all pray for his speedy and full recovery.
--Hey, Nick Saban. There are two openings for head coaches at Georgia Tech and Arkansas. Time to jump ship.
--Speaking of MNF, Michael Wilbon of ESPN's "Pardon the Interruption" basically said at halftime that this season especially shows why there should be a playoff system in college football. While I agree that there should be a playoff system similar to what the lower divisions use, why "especially" this year? Oh, I know. It's because two teams like Mizzou and West Virginia have a chance to play for the championship instead of one of the network sweethearts like Notre Dame or USC or Ohio St. Wait, last year Ohio St. played for the championship and got their ASSES kicked by Florida, that's right. I remember.
--Andy Reid said today that IF Donovan McNabb is healthy, he's their QB. After the Eagles near-upset of New England last night, you have to wonder why in the world wouldn't you at least consider starting A.J. Feely. Reid is a loyal guy to a fault sometimes, and this loyalty will probably cost him his job. Both NcNabb and Reid will be gone from Philly at the end of the year.
--Baltimore and Carolina also will be looking for new head coaches at the end of this season. Brian Billick's putrid offense continues to sputter and after firing offensive coordinator Jim Fassel last year and taking over play calling duties, well...........enough said. Carolina's John Fox is gone as well. Carolina has simply struggled all year. The talent seems to be there but there is something missing, something that a coach like.....oh.......say........Bill Cowher might be able to find?
--The Patriots looked almost human Sunday night. Is it possible that the magic is wearing off, have they finally hit the wall? Um..........nah!!!
--Cleveland in the playoffs. You don't get to say those words in the same sentence very often.
--All of our thoughts and prayers go out to Redskin's safety Sean Taylor and his family. Taylor was shot in his home early Monday morning by an intruder and is in critical condition. Let's all pray for his speedy and full recovery.
--Hey, Nick Saban. There are two openings for head coaches at Georgia Tech and Arkansas. Time to jump ship.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Monday Morning Coffee: 11/26/07
--Yes, Yes, Yes!!! For the first time since 1960, Missouri is the #1 team in college football. After the big win over Kansas on Saturday night, Mizzou jumped from #4 to #1 in the AP, Harris and BCS rankings. A win over Oklahoma this coming Saturday in the Big 12 Championship game to be played at the Alamo Dome in San Antonio, TX and the Tigers will be headed to New Orleans on Jan. 7 to play for the National Championship. Chase Daniel showed why he is one of the Heisman candidates this season and although he probably won't win it this year, he will have to be a front-runner for next season.
--Speaking of impressive, West Virginia looked incredible against #20 UConn, crushing the Huskies 66-21. Pat White, the impressive QB from West Virginia, is a force to be reckoned with and if things stay the way they are, it is going to be a great match up with Missouri's defense trying to find a way to stop White.
--I've been saying for several weeks now that I thought that LSU was overrated, and I was right. Losing to unranked Kentucky at home will probably be the excuse that Les Miles uses when he jumps ship and heads to Ann Arbor to take the Michigan job. He probably got some pointers on that move last week from Nick Saban.
--And speaking of Saban, wonder how long it's going to take for the lynch mob to start calling for Saban's now-shrinking head. With three losses to unranked teams and the loss to dreaded foe Auburn, it shouldn't be long. Most overrated coach in the history of football.
--I've thought for a while that the best move in sports in years was New England's acquisition of Randy Moss for a fourth round draft pick, but I'm starting to think that Boston made the move of the century (okay, I know the century is only 7 years old, give me a break) when they acquired Kevin Garnett from the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Celts are 11-1 and look pretty much unbeatable. In his 13th season, it appears Garnett has finally found his place with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. You heard it here first: Celtics win the NBA championship next spring. Like Boston needs something else to cheer about.
--For anybody who watches "The Ultimate Fighter", you know that the big build up this year has been the welterweight fight at the UFC pay-per-view in December between former champ and UFC icon Matt Hughes and current champ Matt Serra. These two have faced off as coaches on this season's TUF and the dislike and lack of respect on both sides has made for some good moments on the show and great build up to the fight. Word came down this past Friday that Serra would not be able to make the fight in December due to a herniated disc in his back he suffered this past week while training. Yesterday it was announced that Hughes will fight George St. Pierre, the man Serra beat for the title and the winner of the Hughes-St. Pierre fight will meet Serra sometime next year if and when Serra is able to come back. Too bad really, I was looking forward to watching Matt Hughes kick Serra's foul-mouthed cocky butt all over the cage. Serra beat St. Pierre for the title with an illegal shot to the back of the head that the referee didn't see and GSP never recovered from. Serra was pretty much down the food chain in the welterweight division when he surprised GSP and even though he constantly has run his mouth saying he was going to destroy Hughes, conventional wisdom says that Serra probably couldn't last two rounds with one of the greatest champions in UFC history. Serra's injury is said to be legit, but I wonder........
--In baseball news, A-Rod and the Yankees have agreed on a $30 million dollar bonus package for his pursuit of the all-time home run record that would push his 10 year contract to $305 million dollars. I guess he just couldn't get by on that $275 million. Other baseball rumors include a potentially big one that the Oakland A's might try to move either Danny Haren or Joe Blanton, both top-notch starters, in the hope of garnering some great young prospects. Note to GM Billy Beane: Starting pitching is WAY too hard to come by, just ask the St. Louis Cardinals. Keep your pitchers, bring your young talent up and build your club around that. Yes, it may cost you some money, but you're either going to pay now, or pay later. Better the devil you know. Oh, and Barry Bonds still sucks.
--I can't remember a regular season NFC game that had as much meaning as this Thursday's game between Dallas and Green Bay. For those of you that don't have the NFL Network, sucks to be you!!!!!!!! Just kidding. Seriously, ask yourself this question: With the game on the line, who would you rather have behind center, Tony Romo or Brett Favre?
Everybody have a great week and remember, if you're driving be sure and take a car!!!!!!!
--Speaking of impressive, West Virginia looked incredible against #20 UConn, crushing the Huskies 66-21. Pat White, the impressive QB from West Virginia, is a force to be reckoned with and if things stay the way they are, it is going to be a great match up with Missouri's defense trying to find a way to stop White.
--I've been saying for several weeks now that I thought that LSU was overrated, and I was right. Losing to unranked Kentucky at home will probably be the excuse that Les Miles uses when he jumps ship and heads to Ann Arbor to take the Michigan job. He probably got some pointers on that move last week from Nick Saban.
--And speaking of Saban, wonder how long it's going to take for the lynch mob to start calling for Saban's now-shrinking head. With three losses to unranked teams and the loss to dreaded foe Auburn, it shouldn't be long. Most overrated coach in the history of football.
--I've thought for a while that the best move in sports in years was New England's acquisition of Randy Moss for a fourth round draft pick, but I'm starting to think that Boston made the move of the century (okay, I know the century is only 7 years old, give me a break) when they acquired Kevin Garnett from the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Celts are 11-1 and look pretty much unbeatable. In his 13th season, it appears Garnett has finally found his place with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. You heard it here first: Celtics win the NBA championship next spring. Like Boston needs something else to cheer about.
--For anybody who watches "The Ultimate Fighter", you know that the big build up this year has been the welterweight fight at the UFC pay-per-view in December between former champ and UFC icon Matt Hughes and current champ Matt Serra. These two have faced off as coaches on this season's TUF and the dislike and lack of respect on both sides has made for some good moments on the show and great build up to the fight. Word came down this past Friday that Serra would not be able to make the fight in December due to a herniated disc in his back he suffered this past week while training. Yesterday it was announced that Hughes will fight George St. Pierre, the man Serra beat for the title and the winner of the Hughes-St. Pierre fight will meet Serra sometime next year if and when Serra is able to come back. Too bad really, I was looking forward to watching Matt Hughes kick Serra's foul-mouthed cocky butt all over the cage. Serra beat St. Pierre for the title with an illegal shot to the back of the head that the referee didn't see and GSP never recovered from. Serra was pretty much down the food chain in the welterweight division when he surprised GSP and even though he constantly has run his mouth saying he was going to destroy Hughes, conventional wisdom says that Serra probably couldn't last two rounds with one of the greatest champions in UFC history. Serra's injury is said to be legit, but I wonder........
--In baseball news, A-Rod and the Yankees have agreed on a $30 million dollar bonus package for his pursuit of the all-time home run record that would push his 10 year contract to $305 million dollars. I guess he just couldn't get by on that $275 million. Other baseball rumors include a potentially big one that the Oakland A's might try to move either Danny Haren or Joe Blanton, both top-notch starters, in the hope of garnering some great young prospects. Note to GM Billy Beane: Starting pitching is WAY too hard to come by, just ask the St. Louis Cardinals. Keep your pitchers, bring your young talent up and build your club around that. Yes, it may cost you some money, but you're either going to pay now, or pay later. Better the devil you know. Oh, and Barry Bonds still sucks.
--I can't remember a regular season NFC game that had as much meaning as this Thursday's game between Dallas and Green Bay. For those of you that don't have the NFL Network, sucks to be you!!!!!!!! Just kidding. Seriously, ask yourself this question: With the game on the line, who would you rather have behind center, Tony Romo or Brett Favre?
Everybody have a great week and remember, if you're driving be sure and take a car!!!!!!!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
NFL Predictions: Week 12
Alright, football junkies. Thanksgiving week is always one of the best football weekends of the year. Games, games and more games. Let's see who is going to win........and the losers will be:
Green Bay @ Detroit: For years, this was the traditional Thanksgiving Day game. Good to see it mean something again this year. The Lions have a lot of firepower this year and are hanging on the their playoff hopes, but this is the year of the Pack. They are simply playing too good and have everything working. Close game I think, but I like Brett and the Pack. Green Bay -3.
NY Jets @ Dallas: We all keep waiting for the Dallas blow-up and it hasn't happened yet. Romo and Owens have made a solid connection and that spells trouble for everybody else. The Jets got a big OT win over Pittsburgh on Sunday, but the short week and playing in Texas is just too much for them this week. It's a big number but I like the Cowboys. Dallas -14.
Indianapolis @ Atlanta: I don't know which version of either team will show up. The Colts are beat up and struggling it seems and Atlanta, well when they are bad, they are really bad. Time for the Colts to make a statement. Indianapolis -12.
Houston @ Cleveland: You can't say enough about the job that Romeo Crennel has done this year in Cleveland. The Browns are looking like a playoff team, although they have to find some consistency overall. With that crowd and the Dawg Pound, Cleveland is too tough for Houston at home. Cleveland -3.
Philadelphia @ New England: Ok, this is starting to get ridiculous. No one should be a 3 touchdown dog in the NFL. Philadelphia +22.
Miami @ Pittsburgh: When you have to pay people to come to your games, you know you suck. Ricky "Puff, Puff, Pass" Williams may play in this game. Why not, what's the worse that can happen? Pittsburgh comes off a very tough loss in OT to the Jets and I have a feeling that Coach Mike Tomlin is going to have this team fired up. Pittsburgh -16.
Missouri @ Kansas: This game very well might end up being for a birth in the National Championship game. Without a doubt the biggest game ever in the history of this great rivalry. Kansas has been amazing this season and keeps finding new ways to win. Missouri's Chase Daniel will get some Heismann votes and along with Jeremy Macklin have provide one of the best QB-WR combos in the nation. Missouri + 2 1/2.
Good Luck, enjoy the games and Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Green Bay @ Detroit: For years, this was the traditional Thanksgiving Day game. Good to see it mean something again this year. The Lions have a lot of firepower this year and are hanging on the their playoff hopes, but this is the year of the Pack. They are simply playing too good and have everything working. Close game I think, but I like Brett and the Pack. Green Bay -3.
NY Jets @ Dallas: We all keep waiting for the Dallas blow-up and it hasn't happened yet. Romo and Owens have made a solid connection and that spells trouble for everybody else. The Jets got a big OT win over Pittsburgh on Sunday, but the short week and playing in Texas is just too much for them this week. It's a big number but I like the Cowboys. Dallas -14.
Indianapolis @ Atlanta: I don't know which version of either team will show up. The Colts are beat up and struggling it seems and Atlanta, well when they are bad, they are really bad. Time for the Colts to make a statement. Indianapolis -12.
Houston @ Cleveland: You can't say enough about the job that Romeo Crennel has done this year in Cleveland. The Browns are looking like a playoff team, although they have to find some consistency overall. With that crowd and the Dawg Pound, Cleveland is too tough for Houston at home. Cleveland -3.
Philadelphia @ New England: Ok, this is starting to get ridiculous. No one should be a 3 touchdown dog in the NFL. Philadelphia +22.
Miami @ Pittsburgh: When you have to pay people to come to your games, you know you suck. Ricky "Puff, Puff, Pass" Williams may play in this game. Why not, what's the worse that can happen? Pittsburgh comes off a very tough loss in OT to the Jets and I have a feeling that Coach Mike Tomlin is going to have this team fired up. Pittsburgh -16.
Missouri @ Kansas: This game very well might end up being for a birth in the National Championship game. Without a doubt the biggest game ever in the history of this great rivalry. Kansas has been amazing this season and keeps finding new ways to win. Missouri's Chase Daniel will get some Heismann votes and along with Jeremy Macklin have provide one of the best QB-WR combos in the nation. Missouri + 2 1/2.
Good Luck, enjoy the games and Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Monday, November 19, 2007
Sunday, November 18, 2007
The Rules of the Game
Does anybody follow the rules any more? Can anyone participate in a competitive activity without trying to find an advantage that violates the rules? Is this even possible
Consider the following:
--NFL Spygate: Bill Belichik is fined a record amount by the NFL after it is discovered that he was illegally taping the NY Jets defense from the sidelines during a game. Like Bill, did you really need to do that to beat the Jets?
--Steroids: Every major sport is under scrutiny for its players using illegal substances, particularly of the anabolic variety. Almost makes you wish for the good old days when they would just a joint or two and then go play the games.
--NBA referee scandal: Whenever and whatever all the facts come to light, this is another black eye for the Nothing But Assclowns league. People for years have accused the NBA of manipulating games to get the "best", translated biggest TV markets, into the later stages of the playoffs and this isn't going to cause that argument to die anytime soon.
--The Tour de France: Yeah, they ride bikes and yes it's in France (two strikes) but the fact that an American, Floyd Landis, was stripped of the title for blood doping is just another example of the cheating boom.
--Remember a few years ago when the Little League coached phonied up a birth certificate so a 15 yr. old kid could pitch in the 12 yr. old championships? Is nothing sacred?
These are only a few examples. What the hell is going on? Yes the athletes involved ultimately are making the choice as to whether or not to cheat and must be held accountable thus. However, the problem runs much, much deeper.
We live in a "win at all cost" world. Watch TV and watch the advertising. If you don't drive this car, you're a loser, You get the chicks, the money, the glory. As I always liked to say, "Girls, guns and glory". Cheating is not only overlooked, but in many circles encouraged. The media and fans are huge participants in this plague. Win and win right now. No five year building program, no bringing guys up through the system. Go out, sign some big name free agents, pay them whatever it takes. Just win, baby. Oh, and if you have to cheat, just don't get caught. Because after all, if you don't get caught, it's really not cheating.......right? Right?
Coaches are perhaps the true victims of player cheating. On one hand, most of them don't want it on their team. On the other hand, they also don't want to know about it. In our society, coaches are not hired or keep their jobs because of their honestly and integrity, they are hired to win. Nick Saban at Alabama, perfect example. No loyalty, no integrity. He suspended a player from this past weekend's game but when Alabama was losing at halftime he suddenly inserted the player back into the lineup in the second half to "give a spark" to his offense. When asked about it after the game his comment was typical coach speak, "It was what it was". Yeah, well I know bull shit when I see it. Nick isn't interested in building character, rewarding those who follow the rules, building a team unit, Nick is interested in winning because he knows at $4 million dollars a year, he better win.
Guys like Lloyd Carr at Michigan, Joe Torre, now of the Dodgers, Jim Leyland, Tony LaRussa, Bill Cower, Joe Paterno..........The world of sports needs more people like these classy and extremely talented guys. Guys that know how to win and how to do it right. So media and fans, time to pick sides. Do you want to be right, or do you want to do it right?
Consider the following:
--NFL Spygate: Bill Belichik is fined a record amount by the NFL after it is discovered that he was illegally taping the NY Jets defense from the sidelines during a game. Like Bill, did you really need to do that to beat the Jets?
--Steroids: Every major sport is under scrutiny for its players using illegal substances, particularly of the anabolic variety. Almost makes you wish for the good old days when they would just a joint or two and then go play the games.
--NBA referee scandal: Whenever and whatever all the facts come to light, this is another black eye for the Nothing But Assclowns league. People for years have accused the NBA of manipulating games to get the "best", translated biggest TV markets, into the later stages of the playoffs and this isn't going to cause that argument to die anytime soon.
--The Tour de France: Yeah, they ride bikes and yes it's in France (two strikes) but the fact that an American, Floyd Landis, was stripped of the title for blood doping is just another example of the cheating boom.
--Remember a few years ago when the Little League coached phonied up a birth certificate so a 15 yr. old kid could pitch in the 12 yr. old championships? Is nothing sacred?
These are only a few examples. What the hell is going on? Yes the athletes involved ultimately are making the choice as to whether or not to cheat and must be held accountable thus. However, the problem runs much, much deeper.
We live in a "win at all cost" world. Watch TV and watch the advertising. If you don't drive this car, you're a loser, You get the chicks, the money, the glory. As I always liked to say, "Girls, guns and glory". Cheating is not only overlooked, but in many circles encouraged. The media and fans are huge participants in this plague. Win and win right now. No five year building program, no bringing guys up through the system. Go out, sign some big name free agents, pay them whatever it takes. Just win, baby. Oh, and if you have to cheat, just don't get caught. Because after all, if you don't get caught, it's really not cheating.......right? Right?
Coaches are perhaps the true victims of player cheating. On one hand, most of them don't want it on their team. On the other hand, they also don't want to know about it. In our society, coaches are not hired or keep their jobs because of their honestly and integrity, they are hired to win. Nick Saban at Alabama, perfect example. No loyalty, no integrity. He suspended a player from this past weekend's game but when Alabama was losing at halftime he suddenly inserted the player back into the lineup in the second half to "give a spark" to his offense. When asked about it after the game his comment was typical coach speak, "It was what it was". Yeah, well I know bull shit when I see it. Nick isn't interested in building character, rewarding those who follow the rules, building a team unit, Nick is interested in winning because he knows at $4 million dollars a year, he better win.
Guys like Lloyd Carr at Michigan, Joe Torre, now of the Dodgers, Jim Leyland, Tony LaRussa, Bill Cower, Joe Paterno..........The world of sports needs more people like these classy and extremely talented guys. Guys that know how to win and how to do it right. So media and fans, time to pick sides. Do you want to be right, or do you want to do it right?
Monday Morning Coffee: 11/19/07
I'm going to make this a regular feature on the blog. Hopefully it will give something to do while you begin dreading the week and are trying to suck down that first cup of joe, or Pepsi, or whatever your particular early morning vice is. I can't even begin to start the day myself without some very stiff coffee and a cigarette, so here we go:
--Okay, okay I give. The Patriots are THE most dominating team that I have ever seen in pro football. They are not just winning games, they are simply destroying other teams. And before anybody else says it, they were trailing the Colts on the road and came back to win that game. They are simply unstoppable at this point. Maybe an indictment or two could slow them down.
--Congrats to Jimmie Johnson for winning his second consecutive Nextel Cup. Just watching Jeff Gordon NOT win was good enough for me. I hate that guy.
--Green Bay and Dallas just keep winning and winning, setting up a huge game on November 29 that will more than likely be for home field advantage come playoff time. Yes, Romo and Owens look better each week it seems, but for those that thought that Brett had lost a step or some zip off his fastball, don't you feel stupid now.
--The Colts managed to eek, and I mean eek out a win over the Chiefs on Sunday. They have got to get some people healthy or they are going to have a short playoff run this year.
--Pittsburgh's Mr. Hyde came out this week. How in the hell do you go and lose to the Jets? The Jets, for Christ sake. I still say they will be there come playoff time but consistency has to be an issue for this team and Coach Mike Tomlin right now.
--The Rams won their second straight game. I only mention this for my friend Slydawg and for the fact that if the Rams keep winning and can finish the season with 5 or 6 wins, Linahan just might keep his job for another year.
--Think Ricky Williams will help the 0-10 Dolphins? Well, I've got a great deal for you..........
And last but not least, the winner of this weeks What The Hell Are You Doing Award:
Jody Powell, 35, hung on to a 12-foot statue of "Hannah Montana" for the better part of six days to win tickets to a sold-out concert by Miley Cyrus, star of the Disney Channel TV show. The concert will be held next week in Tampa. Personally, I can think of a lot better things to do in Tampa.
Have a Good Week and remember: Don't Hunt What You Can't Kill!!
--Okay, okay I give. The Patriots are THE most dominating team that I have ever seen in pro football. They are not just winning games, they are simply destroying other teams. And before anybody else says it, they were trailing the Colts on the road and came back to win that game. They are simply unstoppable at this point. Maybe an indictment or two could slow them down.
--Congrats to Jimmie Johnson for winning his second consecutive Nextel Cup. Just watching Jeff Gordon NOT win was good enough for me. I hate that guy.
--Green Bay and Dallas just keep winning and winning, setting up a huge game on November 29 that will more than likely be for home field advantage come playoff time. Yes, Romo and Owens look better each week it seems, but for those that thought that Brett had lost a step or some zip off his fastball, don't you feel stupid now.
--The Colts managed to eek, and I mean eek out a win over the Chiefs on Sunday. They have got to get some people healthy or they are going to have a short playoff run this year.
--Pittsburgh's Mr. Hyde came out this week. How in the hell do you go and lose to the Jets? The Jets, for Christ sake. I still say they will be there come playoff time but consistency has to be an issue for this team and Coach Mike Tomlin right now.
--The Rams won their second straight game. I only mention this for my friend Slydawg and for the fact that if the Rams keep winning and can finish the season with 5 or 6 wins, Linahan just might keep his job for another year.
--Think Ricky Williams will help the 0-10 Dolphins? Well, I've got a great deal for you..........
And last but not least, the winner of this weeks What The Hell Are You Doing Award:
Jody Powell, 35, hung on to a 12-foot statue of "Hannah Montana" for the better part of six days to win tickets to a sold-out concert by Miley Cyrus, star of the Disney Channel TV show. The concert will be held next week in Tampa. Personally, I can think of a lot better things to do in Tampa.
Have a Good Week and remember: Don't Hunt What You Can't Kill!!
Saturday, November 17, 2007
College Football: 11/17/08
--Looks like Lloyd Carr is out at Michigan. He has called a press conference for Monday presumably to announce his retirement as the head coach. Even though Michigan has had a tough season, Carr is one of the class acts in college football and his leaving is a loss for the sport.
--Nick Saban is the biggest joke in college football. First, Alabama loses to LA-Monroe at home, a team they were favored over by 24 1/2 points. Then Saban, who had suspended WR DJ Hall who happens to be the leading receiver in the SEC for a violation of team rules, allowed Hall to play in the second half of the game. When asked about this after the game, his response was "It was what it was". Let me tell you what it is Nicky boy. You are the most overrated coach to ever hit college football. You're a mercenary for hire, and the thing is, you're really not that good on top of the fact that you obviously aren't going to enforce your own rules. I can think of better ways that the Crimson Tide could've spent $4 million dollars a year.
--I'm sick and tired of hearing about Tim Tebow, the Florida Gator QB. He will probably be another Heismann Trophy bust following in the footsteps of such noted QBs as Gino Torretta and Andre Ware. He won't win it, but Chase Daniel from Missouri is the real deal. He's the most exciting player to watch in college football and he has a chance to possibly play for the National Championship.
--I can't wait to see the BCS polls tomorrow. I've got Kansas @ 1, LSU @ 2 and Mizzou @ 3. Probably wishful thinking.
--Oklahoma and Oregon both suffered losses this week which should take them out of Championship contention. Oklahoma lost their starting QB freshman Sam Bradford with a concussion in the first quarter and QB Dennis Dixon was lost to Oregon for the rest of the year. A real shame for Dixon, as I think had Oregon run the table and won out that he would have won the Heismann. Let's hope he heals well and we see him on Sundays in the future because he is a great talent.
--By the way, the last time that Kansas was 11-0 was 1899, 108 years ago!!! So Cub fans, quit your whining and bitching.
--Nick Saban is the biggest joke in college football. First, Alabama loses to LA-Monroe at home, a team they were favored over by 24 1/2 points. Then Saban, who had suspended WR DJ Hall who happens to be the leading receiver in the SEC for a violation of team rules, allowed Hall to play in the second half of the game. When asked about this after the game, his response was "It was what it was". Let me tell you what it is Nicky boy. You are the most overrated coach to ever hit college football. You're a mercenary for hire, and the thing is, you're really not that good on top of the fact that you obviously aren't going to enforce your own rules. I can think of better ways that the Crimson Tide could've spent $4 million dollars a year.
--I'm sick and tired of hearing about Tim Tebow, the Florida Gator QB. He will probably be another Heismann Trophy bust following in the footsteps of such noted QBs as Gino Torretta and Andre Ware. He won't win it, but Chase Daniel from Missouri is the real deal. He's the most exciting player to watch in college football and he has a chance to possibly play for the National Championship.
--I can't wait to see the BCS polls tomorrow. I've got Kansas @ 1, LSU @ 2 and Mizzou @ 3. Probably wishful thinking.
--Oklahoma and Oregon both suffered losses this week which should take them out of Championship contention. Oklahoma lost their starting QB freshman Sam Bradford with a concussion in the first quarter and QB Dennis Dixon was lost to Oregon for the rest of the year. A real shame for Dixon, as I think had Oregon run the table and won out that he would have won the Heismann. Let's hope he heals well and we see him on Sundays in the future because he is a great talent.
--By the way, the last time that Kansas was 11-0 was 1899, 108 years ago!!! So Cub fans, quit your whining and bitching.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Barry Bonds Press Conference
Mr. Bonds will now make a prepare statement and then answer your questions:
BB: I will fight these lies that have been perpetrated against me by the U.S. government and by baseball. I am being singled out unfairly because I am better than everyone else AND because I'm a successful black athlete. Just look at Michael Vick......uh.....ok, for example O.J......ahh.....Ron Artest.....anyway, they are just picking on me. Are there any questions.
Question: Barry how does this affect your plans for next season?
BB: Oh, I'll be playing somewhere, hitting homeruns and setting more records. Although I guess now it could be for the Marion Marauders at Marion Federal Penitentiary.
Question: You've maintained your innocence in this matter from the beginning but the evidence clearly shows that you were not truthful. What do you have to say to your fans?
BB: You #$%$#$#$%%! That's the stupidest question I've ever heard. I'm not going to even dignify that with another lie.........er.......answer.
Question: So how do you explain the mystical change in your body from your rookie year until now?
BB: Hard work, dedication and a steady supply of my favorite food, HGH burgers, sold only on the Internet. I can give you the number, if you want it, you pencilnecked-geek.
Thank you Barry for your honesty. We all feel a little better now.
BB: I will fight these lies that have been perpetrated against me by the U.S. government and by baseball. I am being singled out unfairly because I am better than everyone else AND because I'm a successful black athlete. Just look at Michael Vick......uh.....ok, for example O.J......ahh.....Ron Artest.....anyway, they are just picking on me. Are there any questions.
Question: Barry how does this affect your plans for next season?
BB: Oh, I'll be playing somewhere, hitting homeruns and setting more records. Although I guess now it could be for the Marion Marauders at Marion Federal Penitentiary.
Question: You've maintained your innocence in this matter from the beginning but the evidence clearly shows that you were not truthful. What do you have to say to your fans?
BB: You #$%$#$#$%%! That's the stupidest question I've ever heard. I'm not going to even dignify that with another lie.........er.......answer.
Question: So how do you explain the mystical change in your body from your rookie year until now?
BB: Hard work, dedication and a steady supply of my favorite food, HGH burgers, sold only on the Internet. I can give you the number, if you want it, you pencilnecked-geek.
Thank you Barry for your honesty. We all feel a little better now.
Odds and Ends
--It appears that the Yankees and A-Rod may have come to agreement on a 10 year, $275 million dollar contract, and apparently have accomplished this without A-Rod's agent, Scott Boras. The Yankees continue to lose respectability and credibility. First they hose Torre and now after saying if A-Rod opted out of his contract, they were done negotiating with him. Haven't we seen this before with the Yankees? It appears money isn't the only thing the Steinbrenner boys inherited from dear old Dad.
--I still say that end of the year awards should include post-season performances. As far as I'm concerned, Josh Beckett got hosed in the Cy Young voting. Same thing goes with the Heismann Trophy. Aren't post-season games part of a player's overall performance?
--I'm not ready to bail on the Colts' repeating in the Super Bowl just yet, but losing Dwight Freeney is a huge blow to an already beat up squad. Marvin Harrison has played most of the year, Dallas Clark is dinged, Tony Ugoh has been out and now Freeney is done for the year. Teams are going to try and exploit the loss of Freeney and the Colts are going to have to find a way to get back on track. Going to be a tough road ahead for Indy.
--The Stephon Marbury incident shows why the NBA now stands for Nothing But Assclowns. Gambling refs, sexual harrasment, fighting with fans and now a player threatening his coach with blackmail if he doesn't get to start. But I guess they have more important things to do like reprimanding Phil Jackson for his Brokeback mountain references. Hey, if the shoe fits.........
--Barry Bonds has just been indicted on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice involving a four-year investigation as to whether or not he lied under oath to a grand jury looking into steriod use. Can't wait to see what Barry has to say about this........guess we're all just picking on him again.
--And last but certainly not least, Santa Claus has been ordered to stop saying "Ho, ho, ho" in Sidney, Australia because it might be offensive to women. Give me a break.
--I still say that end of the year awards should include post-season performances. As far as I'm concerned, Josh Beckett got hosed in the Cy Young voting. Same thing goes with the Heismann Trophy. Aren't post-season games part of a player's overall performance?
--I'm not ready to bail on the Colts' repeating in the Super Bowl just yet, but losing Dwight Freeney is a huge blow to an already beat up squad. Marvin Harrison has played most of the year, Dallas Clark is dinged, Tony Ugoh has been out and now Freeney is done for the year. Teams are going to try and exploit the loss of Freeney and the Colts are going to have to find a way to get back on track. Going to be a tough road ahead for Indy.
--The Stephon Marbury incident shows why the NBA now stands for Nothing But Assclowns. Gambling refs, sexual harrasment, fighting with fans and now a player threatening his coach with blackmail if he doesn't get to start. But I guess they have more important things to do like reprimanding Phil Jackson for his Brokeback mountain references. Hey, if the shoe fits.........
--Barry Bonds has just been indicted on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice involving a four-year investigation as to whether or not he lied under oath to a grand jury looking into steriod use. Can't wait to see what Barry has to say about this........guess we're all just picking on him again.
--And last but certainly not least, Santa Claus has been ordered to stop saying "Ho, ho, ho" in Sidney, Australia because it might be offensive to women. Give me a break.
Monday, November 12, 2007
NFL Week 10 News and Notes
--I stand corrected. Indy had a HUGE hangover against the Chargers. The Chargers certainly didn't play well enough to win that game and the officiating was absolutely horrendous but bottom line is Colts looked flat, unorganized and uninspired. That loss means that the road to the Superbowl is going through Foxborough and who ever ends up in the championship game is going to have to beat that tough Patriot team at home.......not a very enviable job at this point.
--Yes, yes I know the Cowboys beat the Giants. Two big plays to T.O. saved their bacon because honestly, they were outplayed at the line of scrimmage from start to finish by the Giants. Sorry, I'm still not that impressed.
--How about those Packers? After a 34-0 clubbing of the Vikes, I think everybody is figuring out that this team is for real. It looks like the running game is no long MIA and Brett Favre is.........well, just being Brett Favre, throwing TD passes and adding pages to that Hall of Fame resume. Outside of Brady, who is playing better QB right now than Favre?
--The Rams win, The Rams win!! Who the hell wore the Ram's uniforms on Sunday? Apparently the bye week something happened because they looked NOTHING like the 0-8 team that had been showing up pretending to play something related to football. Hey, in that division, who knows, 8-8 might win it, you just never know.
--Good to see Philly get a win this weekend, not so much because I'm a Philly fan but for Andy Reid. Maybe the vultures with get off his back this week, although that might be too much to ask for fans and media in the City of Brotherly Love. It's family like that that make me glad I'm an only child.
--To all the veterans out there, thank you for the sacrifices that you made for us and for our country and that we may have the freedoms that many people take for granted. Thank you and God bless you.
--Yes, yes I know the Cowboys beat the Giants. Two big plays to T.O. saved their bacon because honestly, they were outplayed at the line of scrimmage from start to finish by the Giants. Sorry, I'm still not that impressed.
--How about those Packers? After a 34-0 clubbing of the Vikes, I think everybody is figuring out that this team is for real. It looks like the running game is no long MIA and Brett Favre is.........well, just being Brett Favre, throwing TD passes and adding pages to that Hall of Fame resume. Outside of Brady, who is playing better QB right now than Favre?
--The Rams win, The Rams win!! Who the hell wore the Ram's uniforms on Sunday? Apparently the bye week something happened because they looked NOTHING like the 0-8 team that had been showing up pretending to play something related to football. Hey, in that division, who knows, 8-8 might win it, you just never know.
--Good to see Philly get a win this weekend, not so much because I'm a Philly fan but for Andy Reid. Maybe the vultures with get off his back this week, although that might be too much to ask for fans and media in the City of Brotherly Love. It's family like that that make me glad I'm an only child.
--To all the veterans out there, thank you for the sacrifices that you made for us and for our country and that we may have the freedoms that many people take for granted. Thank you and God bless you.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
College Football: Thoughts and Observations
---Illinois pulled off the big upset today against #1 ranked Ohio St., but in the present climate is having a QB named "Juice" a really good thing? Looking back, makes you wonder now about O.J. doesn't it?
---There are three Big 12 schools in the top 6 and after this week, it should be top 5. The Big 12 Championship game on Dec. 8 could be for a birth to the BCS National Championship game. Where are all the Big 10 and SEC teams? Oh yeah, I forgot, they keep LOSING!! LOL!!!!!
---Speaking of SEC teams, good investment Alabama. Hear this: at the first sign of trouble, Capt. Sabin will be abandoning ship quicker than you can say buyout.
---Losing to both Navy and Air Force in the same year says it all. Charlie Weiss and Notre Dame are going to have to do some serious soul-searching after this season.........or maybe just do some quarterback searching. It was predicted to be a "rebuilding" year but this is ridiculous. Tony Kornheiser said Charlie Weiss should get a pass on this season. Tony, put down the crack pipe and slowly step away.
--Best team getting very little attention: Hawaii. Yes, I'm one of those people that stay up until 2am watching the late games. Colt Brennan is the REAL deal and is going to be big time on Sundays (remember, I said it first!!!!) To those that don't think Hawaii deserves serious consideration, I have a simple solution: If they run the table and go undefeated, put them in the Championship game and let's see what happens. If not, shame on you.
--I would love to see Darren McFadden win the Heisman, but his inconsistent play is killing him. A weak after rushing for over 300 yds, he goes for 117, mostly garbage yards, after Arkansas was getting blown out by Tennessee. And Matt Ryan can kiss his chances good bye after another mediocre performance. Yes he threw for over 400 yds. But 3 TD's, 2 INT and the loss don't help him one bit. Dennis Dixon from Oregon probably had the best day today by his team being off this week.
--And one final though. It might be a little off subject but I just read a story about how some "health experts" are saying that Santa Claus needs to slim down and put out a new image to the kids of our nations because of obesity and lack of exercise that our youth apparently suffers from. Hey Mr. Expert, do me a favor. Drink a big glass of "shut the hell up" and find something else to do with your time. The problem, I'm sorry to break it to you, isn't Santa Clause, but the lazy parents who stuff their kids full of pizza, McDonalds and any other fast food that they can get their hands on because they are just to busy trying to climb the corporate ladder, get to the gym, get their nails done, meet their buddies after work....................STOP!!!!!!!!! Be a parent, provide something other than junk food for your kids to eat and quit trying to use yet another excuse to emancipate yourself from your parental duties. Ok, I feel better now.
---There are three Big 12 schools in the top 6 and after this week, it should be top 5. The Big 12 Championship game on Dec. 8 could be for a birth to the BCS National Championship game. Where are all the Big 10 and SEC teams? Oh yeah, I forgot, they keep LOSING!! LOL!!!!!
---Speaking of SEC teams, good investment Alabama. Hear this: at the first sign of trouble, Capt. Sabin will be abandoning ship quicker than you can say buyout.
---Losing to both Navy and Air Force in the same year says it all. Charlie Weiss and Notre Dame are going to have to do some serious soul-searching after this season.........or maybe just do some quarterback searching. It was predicted to be a "rebuilding" year but this is ridiculous. Tony Kornheiser said Charlie Weiss should get a pass on this season. Tony, put down the crack pipe and slowly step away.
--Best team getting very little attention: Hawaii. Yes, I'm one of those people that stay up until 2am watching the late games. Colt Brennan is the REAL deal and is going to be big time on Sundays (remember, I said it first!!!!) To those that don't think Hawaii deserves serious consideration, I have a simple solution: If they run the table and go undefeated, put them in the Championship game and let's see what happens. If not, shame on you.
--I would love to see Darren McFadden win the Heisman, but his inconsistent play is killing him. A weak after rushing for over 300 yds, he goes for 117, mostly garbage yards, after Arkansas was getting blown out by Tennessee. And Matt Ryan can kiss his chances good bye after another mediocre performance. Yes he threw for over 400 yds. But 3 TD's, 2 INT and the loss don't help him one bit. Dennis Dixon from Oregon probably had the best day today by his team being off this week.
--And one final though. It might be a little off subject but I just read a story about how some "health experts" are saying that Santa Claus needs to slim down and put out a new image to the kids of our nations because of obesity and lack of exercise that our youth apparently suffers from. Hey Mr. Expert, do me a favor. Drink a big glass of "shut the hell up" and find something else to do with your time. The problem, I'm sorry to break it to you, isn't Santa Clause, but the lazy parents who stuff their kids full of pizza, McDonalds and any other fast food that they can get their hands on because they are just to busy trying to climb the corporate ladder, get to the gym, get their nails done, meet their buddies after work....................STOP!!!!!!!!! Be a parent, provide something other than junk food for your kids to eat and quit trying to use yet another excuse to emancipate yourself from your parental duties. Ok, I feel better now.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
The Barry, Joe and More
--Last week Barry Bonds said in an interview on MSNBC that if his record-setting homerun ball is sent to the Hall of Fame with an asterisk on it that he will not attend induction ceremonies when he is elected to the Hall. Barry, Barry, Barry. First of all, who said you're going into the Hall in the first place? I'm sure that the same voters who refused to vote for Mark McGuire will probably vote you in because you were such a great all-around player, even though you were more than likely juiced all those years, what with baseball writers in particular being a bunch pantie-waisted "yes men" who are more interested in kissing ass than telling the truth. The sheer irony of the very people whom you treated with so much disdain will more than likely be the same guys who put you into the Hall. That being said, whatever happens to the ball is none of your business. If you wanted it so bad, you should have bought it fair and square. Designer Mark Ecko bought the ball and then left it up to a vote of baseball fans as to what should happen to the ball and the fans, the fans Barry, the poor schmucks who paid your salary all those years so you could double dose yourself on HGH, the fans decided that the ball should be branded with an asterisk. Very fitting in my opinion. Fact is, Barry, no one will care if you don't show up. It will probably be better for all. As a matter of fact, do us all a favor and retire, stay home, disappear and quit disgracing the sport and embarrassing your self any more, if that's possible.
--Joe Torre was hired as the manager of the LA Dodgers replacing Grady Little. Now there seems to be a bit of controversy about how the firing of Little and hiring of Torre went down. Now Little is a career baseball guy and probably deserved a better fate. But fact is that a guy like Torre doesn't come along every year so the Dodgers did what they had to do. Torre is 67 years old and the rumor is that he will bring Don Mattingly along with him as a coach, grooming him to eventually take over the managerial reins. I don't know if Torre can bring the Dodgers back to the World Series, but wouldn't it be fun to watch them play the Yankees next year and kick their butt?
--The hypocrisy of MLB continues this week with the Cleveland Indians picking up a 7.5 million dollar option on pitcher Paul Byrd's contract. Yes this is the same Paul Byrd who on the day of game 7 of the ALCS was revealed to have purchased $25,000 worth of HGH from a Florida anti-aging clinic. Byrd claims that it was used to treat a tumor but the prescription had been written by a dentist. LOL!!!!! You would think an idiot like that would at least have the common courtesy to make up a good lie. The sadness lies in the fact that MLB will do nothing about it and they will continue to do nothing. They will issue spotty suspensions here and there but nothing with any teeth or grit. Fact is, as long as the TV money rolls in and the fans keep coming out in record numbers, MLB really doesn't care.
--Last but certainly not least, King A-Rod has now proclaimed that he is ready to meet prospective owners of those that he may allow himself to negotiate with. Um.......cough, cough, BULLSHIT..........cough, cough. Warning to all teams: A-Rod is a cancer. Has the guy really ever won anything, other than individual awards? NO!!! How many World Series rings did the Yankees win under Joe Torre before A-Rod showed up? 4. How many did they win after he got there? ZERO!!! A-Rod is starting to remind me of Barry Bonds 10 years ago. Produce something in the playoffs and help your team and maybe I'll have some respect for you. But with $350 million dollars, why should you care anyway?
--Joe Torre was hired as the manager of the LA Dodgers replacing Grady Little. Now there seems to be a bit of controversy about how the firing of Little and hiring of Torre went down. Now Little is a career baseball guy and probably deserved a better fate. But fact is that a guy like Torre doesn't come along every year so the Dodgers did what they had to do. Torre is 67 years old and the rumor is that he will bring Don Mattingly along with him as a coach, grooming him to eventually take over the managerial reins. I don't know if Torre can bring the Dodgers back to the World Series, but wouldn't it be fun to watch them play the Yankees next year and kick their butt?
--The hypocrisy of MLB continues this week with the Cleveland Indians picking up a 7.5 million dollar option on pitcher Paul Byrd's contract. Yes this is the same Paul Byrd who on the day of game 7 of the ALCS was revealed to have purchased $25,000 worth of HGH from a Florida anti-aging clinic. Byrd claims that it was used to treat a tumor but the prescription had been written by a dentist. LOL!!!!! You would think an idiot like that would at least have the common courtesy to make up a good lie. The sadness lies in the fact that MLB will do nothing about it and they will continue to do nothing. They will issue spotty suspensions here and there but nothing with any teeth or grit. Fact is, as long as the TV money rolls in and the fans keep coming out in record numbers, MLB really doesn't care.
--Last but certainly not least, King A-Rod has now proclaimed that he is ready to meet prospective owners of those that he may allow himself to negotiate with. Um.......cough, cough, BULLSHIT..........cough, cough. Warning to all teams: A-Rod is a cancer. Has the guy really ever won anything, other than individual awards? NO!!! How many World Series rings did the Yankees win under Joe Torre before A-Rod showed up? 4. How many did they win after he got there? ZERO!!! A-Rod is starting to remind me of Barry Bonds 10 years ago. Produce something in the playoffs and help your team and maybe I'll have some respect for you. But with $350 million dollars, why should you care anyway?
Blazing The Trail
Say the name Andy Messersmith and you will for the most part get some blank stares your way. The name has some sort of familiar ring to a few but most will say, "Who?". What most people don't realize is that in many, many ways, Andy Messersmith is responsible for the modern structure of sports teams today and all the athletes making millions and millions of dollars have Andy Messersmith to thank.
Messersmith played major league baseball from 1968-1979. He played for the California Angels, LA Dodgers, Atlanta Braves and the NY Yankees. He had a lifetime ERA of 2.86, had four All-Star appearances and appeared in the 1974 NLCS and the World Series. A decent career but nothing spectacular. It was what he did off the field that made history. Before 1975 baseball operated under what was then known as the reserve clause. It meant that even though a player had completed his contract to a particular team, the team still owned the rights to that player. The player could negotiate a contract with his current team or asked to be released but could not negotiate with another team. It was, in the purest sense of the word, slavery. When Curt Flood of the St. Louis Cardinals was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1969, flood challenged the reserve clause section of his contract. He lost the case and ruined what had been an outstanding career.
After the 1974 season, Messersmith went to negotiate his contract with then Dodgers GM Al Campanis. Messersmith asked that a no-trade clause be inserted into his contract and Campanis and the Dodgers refused. The negotiations became so acrimonious that Messersmith finally refused to deal with Campanis and said he would only negotiate with Dodgers team president Walter O'Malley. Messersmith ended up pitching the 1975 season without a contract. He led the league in complete games, shutouts and finished second in ERA while also winning his second Gold Glove. Messersmith filed a grievance with the support of player's union president Marvin Miller against MLB, asking for the reserve clause to be eliminated from his contract. Arbitrator Peter Seitz agreed with Messersmith and Messersmith signed a three year deal with the Atlanta Braves for $1,000,000. Ironically, the arbitrator Seitz, who had been hired by the owners to arbitrate for them, was fired the day after the ruling. The rest of Messersmith's career was marred by injuries. He resigned with the Dodgers in 1979 and retired after he was released.
After the Seitz decision, the other major sports in the U.S. followed suit, albeit more slowly. Players were able to become free agents, negotiate with other teams, negotiate opt outs, options, no-trade clauses and the like. No longer were players the indentured property of the owners of their teams. They were free to test the waters and to try and both professionally and financially better themselves. After the Seitz decision came down Messersmith said:
"I did it for the guys sitting on the bench, the utility men who couldn't crack the lineup with (the Dodgers) but who could make it elsewhere. These guys should have an opportunity to make a move and go to another club. I didn't do it necessarily for myself because I'm making a lot of money. I don't want everyone to think, 'Well, here's a guy in involuntary servitude at $115,000 a year. That's a lot of bull and I know it"
There are people who will say that free agency has ruined professional sports, that athletes make too much money, that there is no loyalty in sports, players jump from team to team, etc. But make no mistake, sports have always been and will continue to always be a business, and in business the bottom line is making money. Slavery was abolished in this country in 1865. It only baseball another 110 years to catch up.
Messersmith played major league baseball from 1968-1979. He played for the California Angels, LA Dodgers, Atlanta Braves and the NY Yankees. He had a lifetime ERA of 2.86, had four All-Star appearances and appeared in the 1974 NLCS and the World Series. A decent career but nothing spectacular. It was what he did off the field that made history. Before 1975 baseball operated under what was then known as the reserve clause. It meant that even though a player had completed his contract to a particular team, the team still owned the rights to that player. The player could negotiate a contract with his current team or asked to be released but could not negotiate with another team. It was, in the purest sense of the word, slavery. When Curt Flood of the St. Louis Cardinals was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1969, flood challenged the reserve clause section of his contract. He lost the case and ruined what had been an outstanding career.
After the 1974 season, Messersmith went to negotiate his contract with then Dodgers GM Al Campanis. Messersmith asked that a no-trade clause be inserted into his contract and Campanis and the Dodgers refused. The negotiations became so acrimonious that Messersmith finally refused to deal with Campanis and said he would only negotiate with Dodgers team president Walter O'Malley. Messersmith ended up pitching the 1975 season without a contract. He led the league in complete games, shutouts and finished second in ERA while also winning his second Gold Glove. Messersmith filed a grievance with the support of player's union president Marvin Miller against MLB, asking for the reserve clause to be eliminated from his contract. Arbitrator Peter Seitz agreed with Messersmith and Messersmith signed a three year deal with the Atlanta Braves for $1,000,000. Ironically, the arbitrator Seitz, who had been hired by the owners to arbitrate for them, was fired the day after the ruling. The rest of Messersmith's career was marred by injuries. He resigned with the Dodgers in 1979 and retired after he was released.
After the Seitz decision, the other major sports in the U.S. followed suit, albeit more slowly. Players were able to become free agents, negotiate with other teams, negotiate opt outs, options, no-trade clauses and the like. No longer were players the indentured property of the owners of their teams. They were free to test the waters and to try and both professionally and financially better themselves. After the Seitz decision came down Messersmith said:
"I did it for the guys sitting on the bench, the utility men who couldn't crack the lineup with (the Dodgers) but who could make it elsewhere. These guys should have an opportunity to make a move and go to another club. I didn't do it necessarily for myself because I'm making a lot of money. I don't want everyone to think, 'Well, here's a guy in involuntary servitude at $115,000 a year. That's a lot of bull and I know it"
There are people who will say that free agency has ruined professional sports, that athletes make too much money, that there is no loyalty in sports, players jump from team to team, etc. But make no mistake, sports have always been and will continue to always be a business, and in business the bottom line is making money. Slavery was abolished in this country in 1865. It only baseball another 110 years to catch up.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
NFL Week 10 Predictions
I write a column on a couple of forums regarding each week's NFL games. I thought I should bring this out to the blog and share it with everyone. Get you pencils and papers ready to take notes, here we go:
Buffalo @ Miami: Buffalo is playing some good football right now. Rookie RB Marshawn Lynch is showing his stuff and the Bills' defense is playing well. Miami is.......uh.......ok that just plain suck right now. First year coach Cam Cameron's NFL debut has been a bust and rumors abound about Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas leaving town in the off-season. Take Buffalo -3.
Cleveland @ Pittsburgh: First year coach Mike Timlin of the Steelers is pushing all the right buttons and endearing himself to the Pittsburgh fans. Being only the third head coach of the Steelers since 1969 is a tough job and big shoes to fill. If he wants to stay on top of the mountain, he has to beat the hated Browns. Cleveland is definitely one of the surprises in the league this year and QB Derek Anderson may keep Brady Quinn on the sideline for a while. Pittsburgh will win the game, but it will be a battle and a close one. Take Cleveland +9.
Philadelphia @ Washington: Coach Andy Reid's off-field situation and the inconsistent play of QB Donovan McNabb have Philly fans calling for both their heads. What happens in the last weeks of this season will determine, in my mind, what will happen to both Reid and McNabb in the off-season. Washington just keeps finding ways to win and you know that a big division rivalry game like this brings out Joe Gibbs' best. Take Washington -3.
Minnesota @ Green Bay: A great divisional matchup. Minnesota is coming off the trouncing of San Diego and AP is the real deal......maybe. Lambeau Field, probably cool if not cold temperatures and Brett Favre. The Packers are playing not only inspired football, but good football. Take Green Bay -5 1/2.
Dallas @ NY Giants: Best game of the weekend. Dallas' high-power offense against the Giants' unrelenting defense. I think the keys to this game though lie in Eli Manning's ability to exploit the soft spots in Dallas' secondary and utilize WR Plaxico Burress and TE Jeremy Shockey. Take the Giants +1 1/2.
Indianapolis @ San Diego: No hangover for the Colts after the tough loss against New England. The Colts are a veteran championship team and they will bounce back and unfortunately for SD, they are going to be the recepients of that payback. Take the Colts -3.
San Francisco @ Seattle: Wow, what a stinker for Monday night. The best of the worst division in football. Oh well, WWE is on. Take San Francisco +10.
Good luck and enjoy the games!!!
Buffalo @ Miami: Buffalo is playing some good football right now. Rookie RB Marshawn Lynch is showing his stuff and the Bills' defense is playing well. Miami is.......uh.......ok that just plain suck right now. First year coach Cam Cameron's NFL debut has been a bust and rumors abound about Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas leaving town in the off-season. Take Buffalo -3.
Cleveland @ Pittsburgh: First year coach Mike Timlin of the Steelers is pushing all the right buttons and endearing himself to the Pittsburgh fans. Being only the third head coach of the Steelers since 1969 is a tough job and big shoes to fill. If he wants to stay on top of the mountain, he has to beat the hated Browns. Cleveland is definitely one of the surprises in the league this year and QB Derek Anderson may keep Brady Quinn on the sideline for a while. Pittsburgh will win the game, but it will be a battle and a close one. Take Cleveland +9.
Philadelphia @ Washington: Coach Andy Reid's off-field situation and the inconsistent play of QB Donovan McNabb have Philly fans calling for both their heads. What happens in the last weeks of this season will determine, in my mind, what will happen to both Reid and McNabb in the off-season. Washington just keeps finding ways to win and you know that a big division rivalry game like this brings out Joe Gibbs' best. Take Washington -3.
Minnesota @ Green Bay: A great divisional matchup. Minnesota is coming off the trouncing of San Diego and AP is the real deal......maybe. Lambeau Field, probably cool if not cold temperatures and Brett Favre. The Packers are playing not only inspired football, but good football. Take Green Bay -5 1/2.
Dallas @ NY Giants: Best game of the weekend. Dallas' high-power offense against the Giants' unrelenting defense. I think the keys to this game though lie in Eli Manning's ability to exploit the soft spots in Dallas' secondary and utilize WR Plaxico Burress and TE Jeremy Shockey. Take the Giants +1 1/2.
Indianapolis @ San Diego: No hangover for the Colts after the tough loss against New England. The Colts are a veteran championship team and they will bounce back and unfortunately for SD, they are going to be the recepients of that payback. Take the Colts -3.
San Francisco @ Seattle: Wow, what a stinker for Monday night. The best of the worst division in football. Oh well, WWE is on. Take San Francisco +10.
Good luck and enjoy the games!!!
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Monday, November 5, 2007
MMA Notes and News
---It was announced today that the UFC's newest acquisition, former WWE champion Brock Lesnar will face off against Frank Mir at UFC 81 on February 2, 2008 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. There had been some speculation about who Lesnar's first fight might be against but the match appears set and ready to go. Lesanar is an accomplished collegiate wrestler who made a name for himself in the WWE. He left the WWE to pursue a career in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings but was cut at the end of training camp. He was been training for a couple of years now in MMA and in his first fight recently scored a 69 second submission victory back in June. Mir is a former world heavyweight champion that had fallen on some hard times, losing the title when he was unable to defend it due to injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident. Mir's comback has included losing by TKO to Brandon Vera and then gaining a quick submission via the kumura over Antonio Hardonk at UFC 74. There are a lot of sceptics out ther that doubt the MMA abilities of the 6' 3" 365 lb. Lesnar so UFC is shapping up to be one of the biggest and probably most hyped event in UFC history.
--UFC 79 which will take place in Las Vegas on December 29, 2007 will feature the much-anticipated confrontation between Chuck "The Iceman" Liddell and Wanderlei Silva. MMA fans have been screaming for this fight forever and even though some of the luster has gone off the fight now with both fighters coming off losses, this should be a matchup for the ages. Liddell desperately needs this fight to get back into serious contention for the title and Silva wants to establish that he is indeed one of the best pound for pound fighters in the world. Also on this care with be the Matt Hughes-Matt Serra battle for the welterweight title. I really want to see Hughes get that title back shut Serra up. Serra is a foul-mouth thug punk that has consistently belittled and ridiculed Hughes for his straight-laced beliefs and lifestyle since Serra won the belt. Good Luck Matt Hughes, punch once in the mouth for me, would you?
---No matter what other people want to say about Dana White, make sure you add solid businessman to it. Sports has become big, no make that, HUGE business and the guys putting up the money and making the shows run deserve their cut of the pie as well. Without them, there would be no UFC, K-1, etc. Say what you want, I like Dana. He's a tough, intense guy from the streets of Boston, but yet you see him talk to these kids sometimes after fights and he always tries to pump them up and give them some positive feedback. He speak from the heart and doesn't pull a lot of punches.
--UFC 79 which will take place in Las Vegas on December 29, 2007 will feature the much-anticipated confrontation between Chuck "The Iceman" Liddell and Wanderlei Silva. MMA fans have been screaming for this fight forever and even though some of the luster has gone off the fight now with both fighters coming off losses, this should be a matchup for the ages. Liddell desperately needs this fight to get back into serious contention for the title and Silva wants to establish that he is indeed one of the best pound for pound fighters in the world. Also on this care with be the Matt Hughes-Matt Serra battle for the welterweight title. I really want to see Hughes get that title back shut Serra up. Serra is a foul-mouth thug punk that has consistently belittled and ridiculed Hughes for his straight-laced beliefs and lifestyle since Serra won the belt. Good Luck Matt Hughes, punch once in the mouth for me, would you?
---No matter what other people want to say about Dana White, make sure you add solid businessman to it. Sports has become big, no make that, HUGE business and the guys putting up the money and making the shows run deserve their cut of the pie as well. Without them, there would be no UFC, K-1, etc. Say what you want, I like Dana. He's a tough, intense guy from the streets of Boston, but yet you see him talk to these kids sometimes after fights and he always tries to pump them up and give them some positive feedback. He speak from the heart and doesn't pull a lot of punches.
Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys
I've grown up and lived most of my life here in central Missouri. The farmer is still a big part of our culture here and so are rodeos. Now, I will be the first to admit that I wasn't much of a cowboy at one time. I had been to a couple of rodeos and knew a little bit about the sport but didn't really understand everything that went into it. My wife really got me interested in rodeoing. She grew up on a farm, had been around livestock her whole life and had traveled the rodeo circuit somewhat and knew quite a bit about it. As I started to attend more rodeos, I became addicted to the thrill and rush of what these guys do. I got to help unload a truck full of bucking bulls at one particular rodeo and got to see these beasts up close and personal. If you don't know much about the sport of rodeo let me tell you a couple of things.
These guys are athletes, and damn tough ones at that. Check out the videos here on the blog. Football players are tough, hockey players are tough, MMA athletes are tough, but these guys are a special, sick kind of tough. Bull riders are an especially different breed. These guys climb onto a two thousand pound animal that can stomp your head into mush, and then try to stay on for 8 seconds. The worst thing that can happen is that you get thrown off and stomped. The best thing that can happen is that you stay on for the 8 seconds, and then get thrown off and stomped. These guys suffer broken bones, concussions, seperated shoulders, cuts, abrasions, bruises......you get the picture. Steer wrestling is another one of my favorites. You ride a horse out of a chute chasing a steer. You then dive off of your horse onto the steer and wrestle it to the ground. Sounds easy. Try it sometime. The timing and skill that it takes to pull this off is something to watch and the power that these guys display is amazing. You think taking on a 330 lb. defensive lineman is tough, try taking on a pissed-off steer with horns.
All of the events in a true rodeo, calf roping, team roping, barrell racing, sadle bronc and bareback bronc riding are all great events and each takes a special skill. But the king of the rodeo is bull riding. They have become the rock stars of rodeo. Justin McBride is the equivilent of Tom Brady in the world of rodeo. These guys are starting to make some serious money and the sport is really growing and drawing new fans all the time.
Now a lot of you are going to read this and say to yourself, "Rodeos are for beer drinking, Skoal chewing rednecks from the South. It's not a real sport". Well, if you are that person, you are dead wrong. It is a real sport. Not everyone who enjoys rodeo is a redneck but those of us who are accept that label with a special pride. We wear out Stetson hats and boots. We wear big belt buckles with horses, bulls, stars and flags on them. We do like an occassional beer and a little whiskey to chase it down with. Tobacco is usually present in one form or another. But make no mistake about it. These guys are some of, if not THE, toughest athletes going today. Go to your local bar or club and jump on a mechanical bull and have someone who knows how to run the thing give you a ride at about 7 or 8, which is still less that what you would get on a world class bull. See if you can make the 8 seconds. Remember the machine is not going to come looking to stick a horn in your ass when its done. And then come back read this again and see if you too have some new found respect for the greatest athletes around, The Cowboy.
These guys are athletes, and damn tough ones at that. Check out the videos here on the blog. Football players are tough, hockey players are tough, MMA athletes are tough, but these guys are a special, sick kind of tough. Bull riders are an especially different breed. These guys climb onto a two thousand pound animal that can stomp your head into mush, and then try to stay on for 8 seconds. The worst thing that can happen is that you get thrown off and stomped. The best thing that can happen is that you stay on for the 8 seconds, and then get thrown off and stomped. These guys suffer broken bones, concussions, seperated shoulders, cuts, abrasions, bruises......you get the picture. Steer wrestling is another one of my favorites. You ride a horse out of a chute chasing a steer. You then dive off of your horse onto the steer and wrestle it to the ground. Sounds easy. Try it sometime. The timing and skill that it takes to pull this off is something to watch and the power that these guys display is amazing. You think taking on a 330 lb. defensive lineman is tough, try taking on a pissed-off steer with horns.
All of the events in a true rodeo, calf roping, team roping, barrell racing, sadle bronc and bareback bronc riding are all great events and each takes a special skill. But the king of the rodeo is bull riding. They have become the rock stars of rodeo. Justin McBride is the equivilent of Tom Brady in the world of rodeo. These guys are starting to make some serious money and the sport is really growing and drawing new fans all the time.
Now a lot of you are going to read this and say to yourself, "Rodeos are for beer drinking, Skoal chewing rednecks from the South. It's not a real sport". Well, if you are that person, you are dead wrong. It is a real sport. Not everyone who enjoys rodeo is a redneck but those of us who are accept that label with a special pride. We wear out Stetson hats and boots. We wear big belt buckles with horses, bulls, stars and flags on them. We do like an occassional beer and a little whiskey to chase it down with. Tobacco is usually present in one form or another. But make no mistake about it. These guys are some of, if not THE, toughest athletes going today. Go to your local bar or club and jump on a mechanical bull and have someone who knows how to run the thing give you a ride at about 7 or 8, which is still less that what you would get on a world class bull. See if you can make the 8 seconds. Remember the machine is not going to come looking to stick a horn in your ass when its done. And then come back read this again and see if you too have some new found respect for the greatest athletes around, The Cowboy.
Friday, November 2, 2007
What Ever Happend To................
--Where I grew up, a man's word was his bond. All you needed was a handshake and look into the eyes and the deal was done. Now it seems that routinely athletes disregard their contracts and obligations as easily as taking out the trash. Players constantly threaten to sit out the season and hold out if their contracts are renegotiated. UFC Heavyweight champion Randy "The Natural" Couture recently "resigned" from his contract and walked away leaving 2 fights unfinished that he signed up for. A-Rod walked away from a fortune because he "opted" out of his Yankees contract in pursuit of even greater riches. Now I don't begrudge any athlete making whatever he can in his chosen sport. The life span is short and injury can end a career at any given moment. But if you sign the deal, be a man and finish what you start.
--Endzone celebrations. Remember Billy "Whiteshoes" Johnson or Icky Woods and the Icky Shuffle? Remember the Smurfs from the Washington Redskins? Now, don't even think about doing much celebrating or else you'll find yourself picking up an unsportmans-like conduct penalty and more than likely a fine from the NFL conduct police. And that's not even the worse part of this. The NCAA has for the most part completely banned any type of endzone celebration that lasts over 2 seconds. Now I'm not saying it should go on for 5 minutes but 95% of these kids will never play in the NFL. They're playing for the love of the sport and to represent their school. A defensive lineman who picks up a fumble and rumbles into the endzone SHOULD get to dance, jump up and down or whatever he wants to do. C'mon NCAA, you make millions of dollars off these kids, let them have a little fun.
--The brushback pitch. Back in the day, Bob Gibson was the most feared pitcher of his time. If a hitter was stupid enough to crowd the plate, or in any way try to show Gibson or his team up, you can bet the next pitch would be a well-placed 90mph fastball right under the chin. The batter would get up, dust himself off and get the message: back off. Nowadays, you try that and you will have a 10 minute bench clearing brawl that will be the lead story on ESPN for a week.
--Two-way players. I know that we live in an age of specialization and occassionally we will see someone playing both ways on offense and defense but it use to be a lot more common occurance. You always hear during the NFL draft all the so-called experts talking about "the best available athlete". Well, if they truely are, get out onto the field as much as possible then.
--1-0 hockey games. I will admit, ever since the NHL strike I haven't watched much hockey. I was soured on both the players and the owners and the fact that they are slowly killing the sport as a major player in the U.S. market. But I remember those old games in the Checkerdome in St. Louis, 2-1 slugfests with lots of great goalie saves, hard hitting checking in the corners and tough guys on the ice to police the action. I'm sorry but I just don't enjoy watching a 7-6 shootout result.
--Endzone celebrations. Remember Billy "Whiteshoes" Johnson or Icky Woods and the Icky Shuffle? Remember the Smurfs from the Washington Redskins? Now, don't even think about doing much celebrating or else you'll find yourself picking up an unsportmans-like conduct penalty and more than likely a fine from the NFL conduct police. And that's not even the worse part of this. The NCAA has for the most part completely banned any type of endzone celebration that lasts over 2 seconds. Now I'm not saying it should go on for 5 minutes but 95% of these kids will never play in the NFL. They're playing for the love of the sport and to represent their school. A defensive lineman who picks up a fumble and rumbles into the endzone SHOULD get to dance, jump up and down or whatever he wants to do. C'mon NCAA, you make millions of dollars off these kids, let them have a little fun.
--The brushback pitch. Back in the day, Bob Gibson was the most feared pitcher of his time. If a hitter was stupid enough to crowd the plate, or in any way try to show Gibson or his team up, you can bet the next pitch would be a well-placed 90mph fastball right under the chin. The batter would get up, dust himself off and get the message: back off. Nowadays, you try that and you will have a 10 minute bench clearing brawl that will be the lead story on ESPN for a week.
--Two-way players. I know that we live in an age of specialization and occassionally we will see someone playing both ways on offense and defense but it use to be a lot more common occurance. You always hear during the NFL draft all the so-called experts talking about "the best available athlete". Well, if they truely are, get out onto the field as much as possible then.
--1-0 hockey games. I will admit, ever since the NHL strike I haven't watched much hockey. I was soured on both the players and the owners and the fact that they are slowly killing the sport as a major player in the U.S. market. But I remember those old games in the Checkerdome in St. Louis, 2-1 slugfests with lots of great goalie saves, hard hitting checking in the corners and tough guys on the ice to police the action. I'm sorry but I just don't enjoy watching a 7-6 shootout result.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Hot Stove Notes for November 1, 2007
Joe Torre is now officially the manager of the Los Angelas Dodgers. He signed a 3 year deal worth approximately $13 million to manage the team I think it is deliciously ironic that Torre took less money, at least in yearly amouts, as compared to what the Yankess were offering. After all, all he did was lead them into the playoffs 12 consecutive seasons and 4 four World Championships. He should have had a lifetime pass with the Yanks and instead he is cast aside for Joe fricking Girardi. The Yankees are going to rue this move for a number of reasons and the biggest one is that their are very few classy guys left in the game like Torre. Good luck Joe, along with my Cards I'm going to be rooting for the Dodgers next year just to stick it in the Bronx Bomber's asses.
Speaking of the Yankees, Scott Boras, Alex Rodiquez's agent, has now said that the Yankees can negotiate with Alex if they wish. Fat chance of that happening. By opting out of his contract in typical prima donna fashion, the Yankees have lost around $30 million dollars in subsidies from the Texas Rangers going back to the trade that brought A-Rod to New York in 2004. A-Rod left about 80 million laying on the table, not to mention the 1250130 million that the Yankees would have added via an extension. But Scott "The Snake" Boras thinks that he can more, and he probably will. But buyers beware: Yes A-Rod has a lifetime average of .306 and has hit 518 homeruns with 1500 RBIs. But in 39 career playoff games, he has only managed a very, very average of .279, 7 homers and only 17 RBI. Very Barry Bonds' like numbers I must say. In 48 playoff games Bonds has managed a .245 avg. ,9 home runs and 24 RBIs. Common demoninator: Neither has a World Championship ring. Guys making the big bucks are supposed to come through in the BIG situations like.........uh.........maybe during the playoffs would be a good time. The Yankees won four World Series before A-Rod appeared, none since. You figure it out.
The real catch in the off season is going to be free agent Mike Lowell from the World Champion Redsox. Boston will do everything in their power to keep him, but he is going to command some serious jingles but might be inclined to take less money over a longer-term deal to stay in Boston if they can get the numbers close.
Speaking of the Yankees, Scott Boras, Alex Rodiquez's agent, has now said that the Yankees can negotiate with Alex if they wish. Fat chance of that happening. By opting out of his contract in typical prima donna fashion, the Yankees have lost around $30 million dollars in subsidies from the Texas Rangers going back to the trade that brought A-Rod to New York in 2004. A-Rod left about 80 million laying on the table, not to mention the 1250130 million that the Yankees would have added via an extension. But Scott "The Snake" Boras thinks that he can more, and he probably will. But buyers beware: Yes A-Rod has a lifetime average of .306 and has hit 518 homeruns with 1500 RBIs. But in 39 career playoff games, he has only managed a very, very average of .279, 7 homers and only 17 RBI. Very Barry Bonds' like numbers I must say. In 48 playoff games Bonds has managed a .245 avg. ,9 home runs and 24 RBIs. Common demoninator: Neither has a World Championship ring. Guys making the big bucks are supposed to come through in the BIG situations like.........uh.........maybe during the playoffs would be a good time. The Yankees won four World Series before A-Rod appeared, none since. You figure it out.
The real catch in the off season is going to be free agent Mike Lowell from the World Champion Redsox. Boston will do everything in their power to keep him, but he is going to command some serious jingles but might be inclined to take less money over a longer-term deal to stay in Boston if they can get the numbers close.
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