Well, it's been a while since I updated here. And way too long, it seems, since I made a post about something other than College Football.
So, how about an NBA post?
The NBA East is pretty much ... a mess. The New York Knicks are 1.5 games out of their division lead. That shouldn't happen in any division after more than three games are played. The Cavaliers are floundering without Larry Hughes, but still remain a respectable 13-8, and would be the #3 seed if the season ended today.
And, of course, there's the Allen Iverson trade mess. I cannot believe that there are not 29 teams interested in acquiring AI. There's not a single team he wouldn't improve, and no matter your situation, he can provide you with a lot of value.
Top Contender? He can put you even closer to the top.
Borderline Contender? He can make you a top contender.
Middle-of-the-pack team? He can put you in the playoffs.
Bottom-of-the-barrel team? He can put butts in the seats.
I'd personally start drooling if the Cavaliers could somehow find a way to get The Answer. Knowing we'd part with Hughes and at least one of our top rookies, as well as either a good expiring contract (Ira Newbie) or a young stud (Anderson Varajeo) shouldn't inhibit this trade. Lebron-Iverson-Gooden can win the East, and have a very good shot of winning the NBA Title, especially if Zydrunas Ilgauskus does anything in the playoffs this year.
The most likely end result for Iverson though, in my opinion? The LA Clippers. They have a lot of good pieces they can give up, and they have a lot to gain. They were very close to the Conference finals last year, and Iverson could be the piece to push them over the top. Plus, a superstar like Iverson could put them ahead of the Lakers in the public eye, something that has to be invaluable to the Clippers.
And, it would make sense for the Sixers, too. You don't want to keep Iverson in Conference if you can avoid it, and you for sure don't want to keep him in division (say goodbye to those pipe dreams, Celtics fans).
Outside of that, I'd really like the chance to smack David Stern upside the head. You don't switch balls in the middle of the season. You point to the stats that scoring is up, and you negotiate for any possible change to come in the off-season.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
The BC-Mess
Yeah, I know. Lame title. Sue me. Whatever.
It's a joke. The whole thing. Just a joke. The fact that Florida has basically no hope of winning the title because they don't win with enough style is a joke. The fact that Wisconsin at 11-1 has no possible chance of going to a bigger bowl than the Capital One Bowl is a joke.
We should just revert back to the old system. Name the national champion before we play the bowls, and then just play the bowls for fun and bowl trophys. Give Ohio State the title, and then play the bowls.
And they'd probably look something like this:
Rose: Ohio State vs. USC
Sugar: Florida vs. Michigan
Fiesta: Nebraska vs. Boise State
Orange: Georgia Tech vs. Rutgers
Alas, that probably won't happen. And so, we'll have controversy and conflict. Arguments about who should have played for the title, and who didn't get a chance to.
It's a joke. The whole thing. Just a joke. The fact that Florida has basically no hope of winning the title because they don't win with enough style is a joke. The fact that Wisconsin at 11-1 has no possible chance of going to a bigger bowl than the Capital One Bowl is a joke.
We should just revert back to the old system. Name the national champion before we play the bowls, and then just play the bowls for fun and bowl trophys. Give Ohio State the title, and then play the bowls.
And they'd probably look something like this:
Rose: Ohio State vs. USC
Sugar: Florida vs. Michigan
Fiesta: Nebraska vs. Boise State
Orange: Georgia Tech vs. Rutgers
Alas, that probably won't happen. And so, we'll have controversy and conflict. Arguments about who should have played for the title, and who didn't get a chance to.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
The Game really was THE GAME
It's amazing, isn't it, how few games that are so hyped up actually live up to the hype and deliver a game with high energy, good drama, and an amazing outcome. Three times in the past 16 months we've seen college football games deliver. Texas @ Ohio State, Texas vs. USC in the Rose Bowl, and now, Michigan at Ohio State. For everything leading up to the game, the rivalry, the history, Bo's death, the rankings ... the game still met expectations and delivered.
Of course, it delivered more than just a great game. It delivered proof that these really are the two best teams in the country. There is no doubt in my mind that Ohio State is number 1 and Michigan is number 2. I simply hope that, for political reasons, voters in the Coaches and Harris polls don't vote them that way.
And I say that for a simple reason:
There shouldn't be a rematch.
Otherwise, all the hype, all the tears, all the emotion for yesterday's game ... was for nothing. The two teams should have just played their backups if the real game was going to be played 50 days later. The winners should walk out with their prize, the losers should leave heading to a different Bowl Game, and Mike Hart should just shut up.
That leaves four basic contenders for the spot against Ohio State. USC, Florida, Notre Dame, and Arkansas. I rank them in the following way:
1. USC. If they win out, they deserve to go to the Title game, no argument about it. In doing so, they will have beaten two teams on the list of contenders above (Notre Dame and Arkansas), and will have their only loss coming on an incomplete pass on a two-point conversion attempt.
2. Arkansas. If they win out, and USC loses a single game left, they're the next-best choice. They'll have gone through the SEC unbeaten, which is a huge accomplishment, regardless of if you believe the SEC is overrated or not.
3. Notre Dame. If they win out, and Arkansas loses to either LSU or Florida, they're in, at least in my book. The pressure to win at Notre Dame is amazing, and to win with that kind of pressure is what championship games are all about.
4. Florida. They don't have a signature win. They didn't get through conference play undefeated. They're the lowest on the totem poll. They're only hope, in my opinion. to play for the title, is to win out, have USC beat Notre Dame, and then have UCLA beat USC. Very unlikely.
If, somehow, all four of those teams lose along the way (which is possible: LSU over Arkansas, USC over ND, UCLA over USC, Arkansas over Florida), give me anything but a rematch. Give me Boise State, give me Wisconsin, ... anyone but Michigan. They already lost their Title Game.
Saturday's biggest loser
Lost in the Michigan-Ohio State game was the biggest loser Saturday: West Virginia. Had WVU gotten the chance to play an undefeated Rutgers, then a win would have given them the Big East Title, and a trip to a BCS bowl. Now, that chance has been taken away from them. If they beat Rutgers, that will be Rutgers' second Big East loss, leaving the first place tie to be only Louisville and WVU, which would be decided strictly on head-to-head. And there's about 0% chance they'd get an at-large bid, not with three locked up with Boise, ND, and Michigan, and only one more to give out.
Of course, it delivered more than just a great game. It delivered proof that these really are the two best teams in the country. There is no doubt in my mind that Ohio State is number 1 and Michigan is number 2. I simply hope that, for political reasons, voters in the Coaches and Harris polls don't vote them that way.
And I say that for a simple reason:
There shouldn't be a rematch.
Otherwise, all the hype, all the tears, all the emotion for yesterday's game ... was for nothing. The two teams should have just played their backups if the real game was going to be played 50 days later. The winners should walk out with their prize, the losers should leave heading to a different Bowl Game, and Mike Hart should just shut up.
That leaves four basic contenders for the spot against Ohio State. USC, Florida, Notre Dame, and Arkansas. I rank them in the following way:
1. USC. If they win out, they deserve to go to the Title game, no argument about it. In doing so, they will have beaten two teams on the list of contenders above (Notre Dame and Arkansas), and will have their only loss coming on an incomplete pass on a two-point conversion attempt.
2. Arkansas. If they win out, and USC loses a single game left, they're the next-best choice. They'll have gone through the SEC unbeaten, which is a huge accomplishment, regardless of if you believe the SEC is overrated or not.
3. Notre Dame. If they win out, and Arkansas loses to either LSU or Florida, they're in, at least in my book. The pressure to win at Notre Dame is amazing, and to win with that kind of pressure is what championship games are all about.
4. Florida. They don't have a signature win. They didn't get through conference play undefeated. They're the lowest on the totem poll. They're only hope, in my opinion. to play for the title, is to win out, have USC beat Notre Dame, and then have UCLA beat USC. Very unlikely.
If, somehow, all four of those teams lose along the way (which is possible: LSU over Arkansas, USC over ND, UCLA over USC, Arkansas over Florida), give me anything but a rematch. Give me Boise State, give me Wisconsin, ... anyone but Michigan. They already lost their Title Game.
Saturday's biggest loser
Lost in the Michigan-Ohio State game was the biggest loser Saturday: West Virginia. Had WVU gotten the chance to play an undefeated Rutgers, then a win would have given them the Big East Title, and a trip to a BCS bowl. Now, that chance has been taken away from them. If they beat Rutgers, that will be Rutgers' second Big East loss, leaving the first place tie to be only Louisville and WVU, which would be decided strictly on head-to-head. And there's about 0% chance they'd get an at-large bid, not with three locked up with Boise, ND, and Michigan, and only one more to give out.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Ohio State Michigan
Well, this game might break the hype machine by the time it kicks off. Hopefully, that will be well deserved. But, I cannot avoid doing a full breakdown, being from Northwest Ohio. So here goes.
Quarterbacks
This is a big advantage for Ohio State. Henne makes too many mistakes, and struggles to make plays out of nothing. Troy Smith is a smart quarterback, doesn't make a lot of mistakes, and has a knack for making a big play out of thin air.
Runningbacks
This is an advantage for Michigan. Mike Hart is simply amazing, and while Pittman is durable and good enough, he's not amazing the way Hart is. The questions about Chris Wells' hands and fumbleitis push it even further into the Michigan camp.
Receivers
Everyone wants to focus on Ginn/Gonzales vs. Breaston/Manningham. And while that's all good, Ohio State has the edge in the top pairs category, and an even bigger edge when you go down the depth chart (Robiskie is developing nicely, no?). Throw in a talented tight end for Ohio State, and I think they take this category nicely.
Offensive Line
I'm going to call this a push. Both teams have good units, but I think Ohio State has a more skilled unit. Having said that, Ohio State's line is a little more banged up and has been prone to stupid penalties more often. Although, the crowd could nullify that. Still, we'll call it a push.
Defensive Line
Here's another tough one. Michigan has a slightly better unit, but Ohio State has the best DLman (Pittcock). Still, the group beats the standout, so a slight edge to Michigan.
Linebackers
Again, the same problem as above. Michigan's unit is a little better, but Ohio State has the best standout. Slightest of edges to Michigan.
Defensive Backs
Now, we reverse that problem. Michigan has the best individual (Hall), but the Buckeyes have the better unit. We'll give tOSU the edge here.
Special Teams
Both teams feature good return men, reliable kickers, and good enough punters. I think Big Blue's kicker is a bit better, so we'll give Michigan the edge.
So, now, having done all that, what about matchups that actually take place on the field. I think Michigan has an advantage on Ohio State when they try to run the ball, but I'll flip it around and give Ohio State the advantage when Michigan goes to the air. I'll be the complete opposite the other way, giving Ohio State the advantage when they pass, but Michigan the edge when tOSU tries to run the ball.
I think it comes down to Ohio State needing to jump to an early start and take away the running game from Michigan. For Michigan, it comes down to controlling the ball, running well, and keeping their offense on the field for long stretches.
This is a game that can flip on a few key turnovers, and Chad Henne makes more mistakes than Troy Smith, and the Ohio State Defense is very opportunistic.
Prediction: Ohio State 35, Michigan 17.
Quarterbacks
This is a big advantage for Ohio State. Henne makes too many mistakes, and struggles to make plays out of nothing. Troy Smith is a smart quarterback, doesn't make a lot of mistakes, and has a knack for making a big play out of thin air.
Runningbacks
This is an advantage for Michigan. Mike Hart is simply amazing, and while Pittman is durable and good enough, he's not amazing the way Hart is. The questions about Chris Wells' hands and fumbleitis push it even further into the Michigan camp.
Receivers
Everyone wants to focus on Ginn/Gonzales vs. Breaston/Manningham. And while that's all good, Ohio State has the edge in the top pairs category, and an even bigger edge when you go down the depth chart (Robiskie is developing nicely, no?). Throw in a talented tight end for Ohio State, and I think they take this category nicely.
Offensive Line
I'm going to call this a push. Both teams have good units, but I think Ohio State has a more skilled unit. Having said that, Ohio State's line is a little more banged up and has been prone to stupid penalties more often. Although, the crowd could nullify that. Still, we'll call it a push.
Defensive Line
Here's another tough one. Michigan has a slightly better unit, but Ohio State has the best DLman (Pittcock). Still, the group beats the standout, so a slight edge to Michigan.
Linebackers
Again, the same problem as above. Michigan's unit is a little better, but Ohio State has the best standout. Slightest of edges to Michigan.
Defensive Backs
Now, we reverse that problem. Michigan has the best individual (Hall), but the Buckeyes have the better unit. We'll give tOSU the edge here.
Special Teams
Both teams feature good return men, reliable kickers, and good enough punters. I think Big Blue's kicker is a bit better, so we'll give Michigan the edge.
So, now, having done all that, what about matchups that actually take place on the field. I think Michigan has an advantage on Ohio State when they try to run the ball, but I'll flip it around and give Ohio State the advantage when Michigan goes to the air. I'll be the complete opposite the other way, giving Ohio State the advantage when they pass, but Michigan the edge when tOSU tries to run the ball.
I think it comes down to Ohio State needing to jump to an early start and take away the running game from Michigan. For Michigan, it comes down to controlling the ball, running well, and keeping their offense on the field for long stretches.
This is a game that can flip on a few key turnovers, and Chad Henne makes more mistakes than Troy Smith, and the Ohio State Defense is very opportunistic.
Prediction: Ohio State 35, Michigan 17.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Playoff Saturday
Yesterday certainly seemed like a playoff. Enough teams dropping out of contention thanks to knockout blows. Simply amazing.
(Quick note: how sick was that Cavs comeback yesterday? 11-0, down 19 in the 3rd? amazing! and completely under the radar thanks to the day of upsets in CFB)
We lost several national championship pretenders this week (Auburn, Cal, Texas) and added a contender (Rutgers), and had another contender fortify their claim (Arkansas).
With that said, here's an attempt at a top-25
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Rutgers
4. Arkansas
5. Southern Cal
6. Florida
7. Notre Dame
8. Wisconsin
9. LSU
10. Wake Forest
11. Texas
12. Auburn
13. Boise State
14. Georgia Tech
15. Virginia Tech
16. Oklahoma
17. Maryland
18. Nebraska
19. California
20. Louisville
21. West Virginia
22. BYU
23. Oregon
24. Tennessee
25. Boston College
And my updated Heisman Ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Darren McFadden, Arkansas
3. Ray Rice, Rutgers
4. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame
5. Mike Hart, Michigan
(Quick note: how sick was that Cavs comeback yesterday? 11-0, down 19 in the 3rd? amazing! and completely under the radar thanks to the day of upsets in CFB)
We lost several national championship pretenders this week (Auburn, Cal, Texas) and added a contender (Rutgers), and had another contender fortify their claim (Arkansas).
With that said, here's an attempt at a top-25
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Rutgers
4. Arkansas
5. Southern Cal
6. Florida
7. Notre Dame
8. Wisconsin
9. LSU
10. Wake Forest
11. Texas
12. Auburn
13. Boise State
14. Georgia Tech
15. Virginia Tech
16. Oklahoma
17. Maryland
18. Nebraska
19. California
20. Louisville
21. West Virginia
22. BYU
23. Oregon
24. Tennessee
25. Boston College
And my updated Heisman Ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Darren McFadden, Arkansas
3. Ray Rice, Rutgers
4. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame
5. Mike Hart, Michigan
Friday, November 10, 2006
I was wrong
The Big East does have a real team. Of course, I was right when I said WVU wasn't for real, and when I said Louisville wasn't for real. Rutgers, however, I believe is for real. A team that plays solid defense, has a smart quarterback who doesn't lose games, and has a solid running game can be for real. And Rutgers has all of those in abundance. So, hats off to Rutgers.
Although, their win does bring back into the fold the old playoff argument. I'd like to offer my suggestion for a playoff for college football.
First of all, we keep all the minor bowls. Most teams enter the season with no actual hope of winning the National Title. Every team can enter the season with at least a dream of a bowl game. No need to take that away from them.
Second, make it a ten-team playoff. Winners of the SEC, Big East, Big Ten, Big Twelve, Pac Ten, and ACC get automatic bids. They also get first round byes, and are seeded 1-6 by a committee. Four teams get at large bids. The only guaranteed at-large bid goes to a team that is undefeated that is not already in (for example, Utah a couple of years ago, or if Wisconsin was undefeated this year and never played Ohio State). The other spots are filled by a selection committe, and seeded 7-10.
The 10-seed plays in the 7-seed, and the 8-seed plays the 9-seed. Maybe a second-tier bowl (such as Capital One or Cotton) would host this game, or maybe you create new game sites.
Then, obviously, the teams advance through the tournament in single-elimination. Quarterfinal games are home games, semi-finals and the final and third-place game rotate among the four current BCS bowls.
So, this year, you'd have something like this: (predictions by me on conference champs, not on current standings)
Automatic bids: Ohio State (Big Ten Champ), Texas (Big 12 Champ), Georgia Tech (ACC Champ), Rutgers (Big East Champ), USC (Pac-10 Champ), Florida (SEC Champ), Boise St. (Undefeated).
At-Large Bids: Auburn, Michigan, Notre Dame
Seeds:
1. Ohio State
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. Rutgers
5. USC
6. Georgia Tech
7. Auburn
8. Michigan
9. Notre Dame
10. Boise State
Why would this system work? Simple: win your conference, and you get a shot at the national title if you're in a big-six conference. Go undefeated, and you get a shot at the national title if you're not. No one gets squeezed out if they simply take care of business.
And, how would I see this playoff playing out?
Auburn over Boise and Michigan over Notre Dame in the first round.
Ohio State over Michigan, Auburn over Florida, Georgia Tech over Texas, and Rutgers over USC in the quarterfinals.
Ohio State over Rutgers and Auburn over Georgia Tech in the semis, with Ohio State defeating Auburn in the National Title Game.
Although, their win does bring back into the fold the old playoff argument. I'd like to offer my suggestion for a playoff for college football.
First of all, we keep all the minor bowls. Most teams enter the season with no actual hope of winning the National Title. Every team can enter the season with at least a dream of a bowl game. No need to take that away from them.
Second, make it a ten-team playoff. Winners of the SEC, Big East, Big Ten, Big Twelve, Pac Ten, and ACC get automatic bids. They also get first round byes, and are seeded 1-6 by a committee. Four teams get at large bids. The only guaranteed at-large bid goes to a team that is undefeated that is not already in (for example, Utah a couple of years ago, or if Wisconsin was undefeated this year and never played Ohio State). The other spots are filled by a selection committe, and seeded 7-10.
The 10-seed plays in the 7-seed, and the 8-seed plays the 9-seed. Maybe a second-tier bowl (such as Capital One or Cotton) would host this game, or maybe you create new game sites.
Then, obviously, the teams advance through the tournament in single-elimination. Quarterfinal games are home games, semi-finals and the final and third-place game rotate among the four current BCS bowls.
So, this year, you'd have something like this: (predictions by me on conference champs, not on current standings)
Automatic bids: Ohio State (Big Ten Champ), Texas (Big 12 Champ), Georgia Tech (ACC Champ), Rutgers (Big East Champ), USC (Pac-10 Champ), Florida (SEC Champ), Boise St. (Undefeated).
At-Large Bids: Auburn, Michigan, Notre Dame
Seeds:
1. Ohio State
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. Rutgers
5. USC
6. Georgia Tech
7. Auburn
8. Michigan
9. Notre Dame
10. Boise State
Why would this system work? Simple: win your conference, and you get a shot at the national title if you're in a big-six conference. Go undefeated, and you get a shot at the national title if you're not. No one gets squeezed out if they simply take care of business.
And, how would I see this playoff playing out?
Auburn over Boise and Michigan over Notre Dame in the first round.
Ohio State over Michigan, Auburn over Florida, Georgia Tech over Texas, and Rutgers over USC in the quarterfinals.
Ohio State over Rutgers and Auburn over Georgia Tech in the semis, with Ohio State defeating Auburn in the National Title Game.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Minus six
Steelers turned the ball over six times today and lost by 11. If they could hold onto the football, they might be undefeated. It's pathetic.
At least the Buckeyes keep winning and at least the Cavaliers are playing again.
That'll give me something good to hang my hat on, even if the defending champs are making me cry.
Actual analysis or something ... eventually
At least the Buckeyes keep winning and at least the Cavaliers are playing again.
That'll give me something good to hang my hat on, even if the defending champs are making me cry.
Actual analysis or something ... eventually
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Gut Reactions
Gut Reactions are overplayed in the media. Suddenly, the St. Louis Cardinals are the "worst World Series Champions" ever. Right.
Better to be the worst champs ever, than to be the best to not win, right? I'm sure the Mariners of a few years back would trade twenty or so wins in the regular season for a ring.
Suddenly, Ben Roethlisberger is a bust, and the most overrated QB in the NFL. Suddenly, he's back to being only a game manager.
Guess we've so quickly forgotten the playoffs last year, when he outplayed Peyton Manning to give his team the lead they would hold on and win with.
Suddenly, John L. Smith might not get fired. That comeback against Northwestern might save his job.
Guess we're so quickly to forget that they fell into that hole against Northwestern. And, that we're to quickly forget about the collapse against an above-average Notre dame team?
Oh well ... that will at least be corrected with the game this week. As I type, it's 30-7 Indiana.
Seriously, can the media please back off gut reactions? Remember about 11 months ago when last year's USC team was among the ten greatest of all time? Then, quickly, they became among the best to not win the title?
Better to be the worst champs ever, than to be the best to not win, right? I'm sure the Mariners of a few years back would trade twenty or so wins in the regular season for a ring.
Suddenly, Ben Roethlisberger is a bust, and the most overrated QB in the NFL. Suddenly, he's back to being only a game manager.
Guess we've so quickly forgotten the playoffs last year, when he outplayed Peyton Manning to give his team the lead they would hold on and win with.
Suddenly, John L. Smith might not get fired. That comeback against Northwestern might save his job.
Guess we're so quickly to forget that they fell into that hole against Northwestern. And, that we're to quickly forget about the collapse against an above-average Notre dame team?
Oh well ... that will at least be corrected with the game this week. As I type, it's 30-7 Indiana.
Seriously, can the media please back off gut reactions? Remember about 11 months ago when last year's USC team was among the ten greatest of all time? Then, quickly, they became among the best to not win the title?
Gut Reactions
Gut Reactions are overplayed in the media. Suddenly, the St. Louis Cardinals are the "worst World Series Champions" ever. Right.
Better to be the worst champs ever, than to be the best to not win, right? I'm sure the Mariners of a few years back would trade twenty or so wins in the regular season for a ring.
Suddenly, Ben Roethlisberger is a bust, and the most overrated QB in the NFL. Suddenly, he's back to being only a game manager.
Guess we've so quickly forgotten the playoffs last year, when he outplayed Peyton Manning to give his team the lead they would hold on and win with.
Suddenly, John L. Smith might not get fired. That comeback against Northwestern might save his job.
Guess we're so quickly to forget that they fell into that hole against Northwestern. And, that we're to quickly forget about the collapse against an above-average Notre dame team?
Oh well ... that will at least be corrected with the game this week. As I type, it's 30-7 Indiana.
Seriously, can the media please back off gut reactions? Remember about 11 months ago when last year's USC team was among the ten greatest of all time? Then, quickly, they became among the best to not win the title?
Better to be the worst champs ever, than to be the best to not win, right? I'm sure the Mariners of a few years back would trade twenty or so wins in the regular season for a ring.
Suddenly, Ben Roethlisberger is a bust, and the most overrated QB in the NFL. Suddenly, he's back to being only a game manager.
Guess we've so quickly forgotten the playoffs last year, when he outplayed Peyton Manning to give his team the lead they would hold on and win with.
Suddenly, John L. Smith might not get fired. That comeback against Northwestern might save his job.
Guess we're so quickly to forget that they fell into that hole against Northwestern. And, that we're to quickly forget about the collapse against an above-average Notre dame team?
Oh well ... that will at least be corrected with the game this week. As I type, it's 30-7 Indiana.
Seriously, can the media please back off gut reactions? Remember about 11 months ago when last year's USC team was among the ten greatest of all time? Then, quickly, they became among the best to not win the title?
Gut Reactions
Gut Reactions are overplayed in the media. Suddenly, the St. Louis Cardinals are the "worst World Series Champions" ever. Right.
Better to be the worst champs ever, than to be the best to not win, right? I'm sure the Mariners of a few years back would trade twenty or so wins in the regular season for a ring.
Suddenly, Ben Roethlisberger is a bust, and the most overrated QB in the NFL. Suddenly, he's back to being only a game manager.
Guess we've so quickly forgotten the playoffs last year, when he outplayed Peyton Manning to give his team the lead they would hold on and win with.
Suddenly, John L. Smith might not get fired. That comeback against Northwestern might save his job.
Guess we're so quickly to forget that they fell into that hole against Northwestern. And, that we're to quickly forget about the collapse against an above-average Notre dame team?
Oh well ... that will at least be corrected with the game this week. As I type, it's 30-7 Indiana.
Seriously, can the media please back off gut reactions? Remember about 11 months ago when last year's USC team was among the ten greatest of all time? Then, quickly, they became among the best to not win the title?
Better to be the worst champs ever, than to be the best to not win, right? I'm sure the Mariners of a few years back would trade twenty or so wins in the regular season for a ring.
Suddenly, Ben Roethlisberger is a bust, and the most overrated QB in the NFL. Suddenly, he's back to being only a game manager.
Guess we've so quickly forgotten the playoffs last year, when he outplayed Peyton Manning to give his team the lead they would hold on and win with.
Suddenly, John L. Smith might not get fired. That comeback against Northwestern might save his job.
Guess we're so quickly to forget that they fell into that hole against Northwestern. And, that we're to quickly forget about the collapse against an above-average Notre dame team?
Oh well ... that will at least be corrected with the game this week. As I type, it's 30-7 Indiana.
Seriously, can the media please back off gut reactions? Remember about 11 months ago when last year's USC team was among the ten greatest of all time? Then, quickly, they became among the best to not win the title?
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
What a Choke
Hello, Dennis Green? I know you don't read my blog, but these aren't thoughts that are going to be exclusively mine anyways. I just have a few questions. How do you blow a 13-point lead halfway through the 4th quarter? How do you blow a 20 point lead without giving up an offensive touchdown? Why do you throw the ball when the other team is using timeouts to stop the clock? (oh, wait, maybe that question answers the first two) Do you think NFL Network will hire you next year?
However, we did learn a few things last night (learning that Dennis Green is not going to win in Arizona isn't really learning ... we already knew that).
Rex Grossman for MVP hype is too much. Steve Smith is the MVP. He's very close to being for the Panthers what Emmit Smith was to the Cowboys. Seriously.
Brian Urlacher went from way overrated to way underrated. He might just be the best linebacker in the NFL right now. See what dumping Paris Hilton can do for you?
College Football
What the heck happened to Georgia? Wow.
Just me, or Michigan-Ohio State looks destined to be a battle of undefeateds?
Just me, or it's fitting that WVU (undefeated) is behind Auburn (with one loss) in the BCS standings? That's what you get for playing Our Lady of the Blind for your entire out-of-conference schedule. Part of me really hopes that holds up, USC loses and the OSU-UM winner plays one-loss Auburn for the National Title, while unbeaten WVU (or Louisville) plays in another bowl. But I don't think that'll happen. I think WVU beats Louisville, but then loses to Pitt in the backyard brawl. Just because Karma is like that.
Anyways, my top 25:
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. USC
4. Auburn
5. WVU
6. Louisville
7. Florida
8. Texas
9. Notre Dame
10. Tennessee
11. Georgia Tech
12. Clemson
13. Arkansas
14. Cal
15. Boise State
16. Rutgers
17. Nebraska
18. Wisconsin
19. Oregon
20. Boston College
21. Texas A&M
22. Missouri
23. Boston College
24. Iowa
25. Pitt
26. Akron
.
.
.
119. Miami (Fl)
And, my Heisman Ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Garrett Wolfe, NIU
3. Mike Hart, UM
4. Calvin Johnson, GT
5. Steve Slaton, WVU
And, coming in with the rank of "idiot showboat" ... Adrian Peterson, OU
However, we did learn a few things last night (learning that Dennis Green is not going to win in Arizona isn't really learning ... we already knew that).
Rex Grossman for MVP hype is too much. Steve Smith is the MVP. He's very close to being for the Panthers what Emmit Smith was to the Cowboys. Seriously.
Brian Urlacher went from way overrated to way underrated. He might just be the best linebacker in the NFL right now. See what dumping Paris Hilton can do for you?
College Football
What the heck happened to Georgia? Wow.
Just me, or Michigan-Ohio State looks destined to be a battle of undefeateds?
Just me, or it's fitting that WVU (undefeated) is behind Auburn (with one loss) in the BCS standings? That's what you get for playing Our Lady of the Blind for your entire out-of-conference schedule. Part of me really hopes that holds up, USC loses and the OSU-UM winner plays one-loss Auburn for the National Title, while unbeaten WVU (or Louisville) plays in another bowl. But I don't think that'll happen. I think WVU beats Louisville, but then loses to Pitt in the backyard brawl. Just because Karma is like that.
Anyways, my top 25:
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. USC
4. Auburn
5. WVU
6. Louisville
7. Florida
8. Texas
9. Notre Dame
10. Tennessee
11. Georgia Tech
12. Clemson
13. Arkansas
14. Cal
15. Boise State
16. Rutgers
17. Nebraska
18. Wisconsin
19. Oregon
20. Boston College
21. Texas A&M
22. Missouri
23. Boston College
24. Iowa
25. Pitt
26. Akron
.
.
.
119. Miami (Fl)
And, my Heisman Ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Garrett Wolfe, NIU
3. Mike Hart, UM
4. Calvin Johnson, GT
5. Steve Slaton, WVU
And, coming in with the rank of "idiot showboat" ... Adrian Peterson, OU
Saturday, October 14, 2006
When you're wrong ...
So, about that Yanks-Dodgers World Sereis?
Eh, I was wrong. Oh well.
I would like to say congratulations to the Detroit Tigers on winning the 2006 World Series. What? They're *only* up 3-0 in the ALCS? So what. They're up 3-0 on an Oakland A's team in the playoffs, that's pretty safe. And, on top of that, they get to play the winner of the Little Leauge World Series, I mean National League, next.
The National League has been a joke all year, and a joke it shall remain. Tigers with a third straight AL Sweep!
College Football TODAY
A couple of very good games today. Two of which really need highlighted.
Florida-Auburn should be a great game. Auburn will have new-found intensity as everyone questions their mettle, while Florida continues to shine with a great 1-2 punch at quarterback. In the end, I can't bet against Urban Meyer, so I think Florida wins it by ten.
Penn State-Michigan should also be a dandy. Michigan has National Title hopes on the line, while Penn State is out for blood after Michigan cost them a chance at the National Title last year. The loss of Manningham will effect Michigan more than most will say, because Chad Henne is only effective (not most effective, only effective) when he can throw the ball over the top and deep. Without Manningham, he's lost his best WR to do that. That, combined with a rowdy Penn State crowd out for blood combines to a close Penn State victory ... possibly in OT.
Eh, I was wrong. Oh well.
I would like to say congratulations to the Detroit Tigers on winning the 2006 World Series. What? They're *only* up 3-0 in the ALCS? So what. They're up 3-0 on an Oakland A's team in the playoffs, that's pretty safe. And, on top of that, they get to play the winner of the Little Leauge World Series, I mean National League, next.
The National League has been a joke all year, and a joke it shall remain. Tigers with a third straight AL Sweep!
College Football TODAY
A couple of very good games today. Two of which really need highlighted.
Florida-Auburn should be a great game. Auburn will have new-found intensity as everyone questions their mettle, while Florida continues to shine with a great 1-2 punch at quarterback. In the end, I can't bet against Urban Meyer, so I think Florida wins it by ten.
Penn State-Michigan should also be a dandy. Michigan has National Title hopes on the line, while Penn State is out for blood after Michigan cost them a chance at the National Title last year. The loss of Manningham will effect Michigan more than most will say, because Chad Henne is only effective (not most effective, only effective) when he can throw the ball over the top and deep. Without Manningham, he's lost his best WR to do that. That, combined with a rowdy Penn State crowd out for blood combines to a close Penn State victory ... possibly in OT.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
MLB Playoffs
My appologies for no posts as of late. See my regular blog for why. I'll try to get a litte more up later, but I wanted to get my thougts on the playoffs before too late.
First, I'd like to say a giant "thank you" to the Houston Astros for teasing us so much. To come within winning your own finale to have a shot at history and capitalizing on a huge collapse and then blowing it? geez, way to go guys. Better to lost 100 games than do that (belive me, I'm an Indians fan, I know the difference).
Anyways, onto predictions.
I think the ALCS will be a matchup of the two best two teams still in it, the Yankees and the Twins. The Yankee bats and experience are just too much, in my opinion, for the Tigers. As for the Twins-A's ... anyone who still bets on the A's to win a playoff series deserves to lose their money.
I think the Cardinals will be playing relaxed, happy to not be embarrsed by a giant collapse and will use that freedom to take a surprise win over the Padres. The Mets can't win a series without Pedro, and so the Dodgers will take that series, but it won't be easy.
I see the Yankees going to the 'Series. Most of the time, good pitching beats good hitting in October. But ... 1) This is GREAT hitting and 2) this is tired pitching. I think they'll see the Dodgers there, thanks in large part to some clutch performances from Greg Maddox.
But, even Greg Maddox won't shut down this Juggernaut offense, and I think the Yankees will slug themselves to a seven-game series victory.
First, I'd like to say a giant "thank you" to the Houston Astros for teasing us so much. To come within winning your own finale to have a shot at history and capitalizing on a huge collapse and then blowing it? geez, way to go guys. Better to lost 100 games than do that (belive me, I'm an Indians fan, I know the difference).
Anyways, onto predictions.
I think the ALCS will be a matchup of the two best two teams still in it, the Yankees and the Twins. The Yankee bats and experience are just too much, in my opinion, for the Tigers. As for the Twins-A's ... anyone who still bets on the A's to win a playoff series deserves to lose their money.
I think the Cardinals will be playing relaxed, happy to not be embarrsed by a giant collapse and will use that freedom to take a surprise win over the Padres. The Mets can't win a series without Pedro, and so the Dodgers will take that series, but it won't be easy.
I see the Yankees going to the 'Series. Most of the time, good pitching beats good hitting in October. But ... 1) This is GREAT hitting and 2) this is tired pitching. I think they'll see the Dodgers there, thanks in large part to some clutch performances from Greg Maddox.
But, even Greg Maddox won't shut down this Juggernaut offense, and I think the Yankees will slug themselves to a seven-game series victory.
Monday, September 25, 2006
A Tale of Two Quarterbacks
Mark Brunell. I've been brutal on him this season. Deservedly so. He's looked lost on the field, and hasn't been very productive. I've been calling for Jason Campbell to get the start in Washington.
Ben Roethlisberger. I've been very high on him since he came into the league. Deservedly so. He's a proven winner. He's managed games well, he's won games well. He's got a Super Bowl ring.
So what happened to these guys Sunday?
Brunell breaks an NFL record for consecutive completions in a game and leads his team to victory, while Big ben looks feeble on the field throws a couple of back breaking interceptions and hands a game to his team's toughest in-division rival.
I'm sure they were just blips on the radar. I have confidence that by the end of the season, Brunell will be riding the pine and Ben will be playing well and fighting for a playoff spot, if not fighting in the playoffs. I'm sure it's a product of shaking off rust for Ben, and playing against the Texans for Brunell.
I sure hope so.
Around the NFL
Three weeks in, what do we know?
The Colts are going to have a phenominal regular season. I've never doubted that. They'll probably win 12-14 games. Of course, I'll be waiting to try to predict which lower seed they flame out against in the playoffs this year.
Arizona was over-hyped. Seattle looks good, and St. Louis looks decent, and San Fransisco is much better than predicted. So, all-in-all, when (not if) the Madden curse strikes Alexander, that division could be a free-for-all. I'm pulling for the 49ers, personally ... I can't believe how much progress they've made.
John Fox might be in line for the "Tony Dungy" treatment. That is, he might get fired. This guy consistently has a team that competes with the best, but they never seem to show up for 16 weeks. Odds are, he gets fired, and then quickly snatched up by another team (maybe Dallas or Arizona).
College Football
I'm not going to over react the way a lot of analysts do (and why should I? I'm a fan, not an analyst). Georgia's scare against Colorado was just that ... a scare. They're still undefeated, still have one heckeva defense, and can still run the tables in the SEC. No need to drop them in the ratings. I've seen too many good teams pull out close wins (OSU in 2002, Auburn two years ago) to knock a team for finding a way to win in gut-check time.
My Top 25:
1. Ohio State
2. Auburn
3. Florida
4. Michigan
5. USC
6. Georgia
7. Louisville
8. West Virginia
9. Iowa
10. Virginia Tech
11. TCU
12. Oregon
13. Texas
14. Notre Dame
15. LSU
16. Boise State
17. Cal
18. Oklahoma
19. Clemson
20. Tennessee
21. Nebraska
22. Missouri
23. Purdue
24. Arkansas
25. Rutgers
26. Akron
And, my Heisman ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Mike Hart, Michigan
3. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
4. Steve Slaton, West Virginia
5. Garrett Wolfe, Northern Illinois
Ben Roethlisberger. I've been very high on him since he came into the league. Deservedly so. He's a proven winner. He's managed games well, he's won games well. He's got a Super Bowl ring.
So what happened to these guys Sunday?
Brunell breaks an NFL record for consecutive completions in a game and leads his team to victory, while Big ben looks feeble on the field throws a couple of back breaking interceptions and hands a game to his team's toughest in-division rival.
I'm sure they were just blips on the radar. I have confidence that by the end of the season, Brunell will be riding the pine and Ben will be playing well and fighting for a playoff spot, if not fighting in the playoffs. I'm sure it's a product of shaking off rust for Ben, and playing against the Texans for Brunell.
I sure hope so.
Around the NFL
Three weeks in, what do we know?
The Colts are going to have a phenominal regular season. I've never doubted that. They'll probably win 12-14 games. Of course, I'll be waiting to try to predict which lower seed they flame out against in the playoffs this year.
Arizona was over-hyped. Seattle looks good, and St. Louis looks decent, and San Fransisco is much better than predicted. So, all-in-all, when (not if) the Madden curse strikes Alexander, that division could be a free-for-all. I'm pulling for the 49ers, personally ... I can't believe how much progress they've made.
John Fox might be in line for the "Tony Dungy" treatment. That is, he might get fired. This guy consistently has a team that competes with the best, but they never seem to show up for 16 weeks. Odds are, he gets fired, and then quickly snatched up by another team (maybe Dallas or Arizona).
College Football
I'm not going to over react the way a lot of analysts do (and why should I? I'm a fan, not an analyst). Georgia's scare against Colorado was just that ... a scare. They're still undefeated, still have one heckeva defense, and can still run the tables in the SEC. No need to drop them in the ratings. I've seen too many good teams pull out close wins (OSU in 2002, Auburn two years ago) to knock a team for finding a way to win in gut-check time.
My Top 25:
1. Ohio State
2. Auburn
3. Florida
4. Michigan
5. USC
6. Georgia
7. Louisville
8. West Virginia
9. Iowa
10. Virginia Tech
11. TCU
12. Oregon
13. Texas
14. Notre Dame
15. LSU
16. Boise State
17. Cal
18. Oklahoma
19. Clemson
20. Tennessee
21. Nebraska
22. Missouri
23. Purdue
24. Arkansas
25. Rutgers
26. Akron
And, my Heisman ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Mike Hart, Michigan
3. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
4. Steve Slaton, West Virginia
5. Garrett Wolfe, Northern Illinois
Saturday, September 23, 2006
In-Game Thoughts (College Football)
Thought I'd do a post here and give thoughts on games as they progress.
What is it about Michigan receivers? They don't fight for the ball, they make routine drops, and they hurt their QB's stat sheet. Manningham, not Henne, was to blame for the first INT in that game. Although, to now, the real story in that game is the Wisconsin run blocking. That's a very nice O-Line.
Officiating is off to another bad start ... just look at the Iowa-Illinois game.
I'll update as I have more thoughts and flip between games (I've got Iowa-Illinois, Michigan-Wisconsin, and Purdue-Minnesota).
Kick early, go for it late, Lloyd Carr. I hope those three points come back to haunt you.
Manningham is definately a Michigan receiver. He drops the easy ones, and then makes the spectacular.
Anyone else disappointed whenever they pan to the sideline during a Minnesota game and it's not Craig T. Nelson?
Ron Zook is not a good head coach (not news, I know, but it sure is being reinforced)
I hate stupid announcers. With a passion. 1:02 to go in the first half, Wisconsin gets a third-down stop on Michigan. The referee winds the clock and the seconds start to tick off, even though the stop went out of bounds. Wisconsin calls timeout (obviously, the clock was running and the ref wound it), and the announcers proceeded to spend the rest of the half talking about the "mistake" of calling timeout. Stupid announcers.
Manningham is Richie Sexson. He's either gonna hit a homerun, or he's gonna strike otu. Lucky for him, his latest homey has Michigan up.
How about that Georgia-Colorado game? Did anyone see that coming? I have a theory: Karma. Last time Han Hawkins played Georgia? They ran up the score on Boise State and trashed talked like it was a title game.
Michael Hart is going on my Heisman ballot. Anyone who gets that many after-contact yards and after-contact chances is a beast.
What is it about Michigan receivers? They don't fight for the ball, they make routine drops, and they hurt their QB's stat sheet. Manningham, not Henne, was to blame for the first INT in that game. Although, to now, the real story in that game is the Wisconsin run blocking. That's a very nice O-Line.
Officiating is off to another bad start ... just look at the Iowa-Illinois game.
I'll update as I have more thoughts and flip between games (I've got Iowa-Illinois, Michigan-Wisconsin, and Purdue-Minnesota).
Kick early, go for it late, Lloyd Carr. I hope those three points come back to haunt you.
Manningham is definately a Michigan receiver. He drops the easy ones, and then makes the spectacular.
Anyone else disappointed whenever they pan to the sideline during a Minnesota game and it's not Craig T. Nelson?
Ron Zook is not a good head coach (not news, I know, but it sure is being reinforced)
I hate stupid announcers. With a passion. 1:02 to go in the first half, Wisconsin gets a third-down stop on Michigan. The referee winds the clock and the seconds start to tick off, even though the stop went out of bounds. Wisconsin calls timeout (obviously, the clock was running and the ref wound it), and the announcers proceeded to spend the rest of the half talking about the "mistake" of calling timeout. Stupid announcers.
Manningham is Richie Sexson. He's either gonna hit a homerun, or he's gonna strike otu. Lucky for him, his latest homey has Michigan up.
How about that Georgia-Colorado game? Did anyone see that coming? I have a theory: Karma. Last time Han Hawkins played Georgia? They ran up the score on Boise State and trashed talked like it was a title game.
Michael Hart is going on my Heisman ballot. Anyone who gets that many after-contact yards and after-contact chances is a beast.
The Week That Was
Well, I suppose this is a down week for me in sports. I don't really care about the potential of a NY-NY World Series, I don't have quite the golf knowledge to talk about the Ryder Cup (although I am pulling for team USA ... and not just because I'm a Tiger fan), and my Stillers got it handed to them on Sunday.
Still, a pretty much slow sports week, at least from my perspective. A couple of interesting articles popped up on ESPN this week, though. So, I thought I'd comment on them.
NBA Future Predictions ... *sigh* ... I really wish ESPN would get off the "Lebron wants to play in New York" thing. UGH! Do you really think the man really would keep investing millions into the Cleveland community if he was thinking "man, I can't wait till I can blow this town and play in a real city"? Do you really think a man who grew up experiencing heartbreak after heartbreak in that city would want to bring another and possibly the largest to it? I don't. Lebron is committed to Cleveland. Could there be a greater lecagy than "I won a major sports championship for a franchise in Cleveland?" I doubt it. Get the heck off that boat.
An Article about rooting against your team. I disagree with some of his points. Fantasy sports are never as important as real sports. Nor is a single player worth rooting against your team. But, other than that, it was a decent read.
College Football Preview
Not many great games this week, but ... I might as well offer a few predictions
I like Arizona State to edge out Cal. Ohio State should blow out, yes blow out by at least 4 touchdowns, Penn State. Likewise, I think Notre dame blows out Michigan State.
Oh ... and a random thought ... could this year's Oakland Raiders be the worst professional sports team in my lifetime?
Still, a pretty much slow sports week, at least from my perspective. A couple of interesting articles popped up on ESPN this week, though. So, I thought I'd comment on them.
NBA Future Predictions ... *sigh* ... I really wish ESPN would get off the "Lebron wants to play in New York" thing. UGH! Do you really think the man really would keep investing millions into the Cleveland community if he was thinking "man, I can't wait till I can blow this town and play in a real city"? Do you really think a man who grew up experiencing heartbreak after heartbreak in that city would want to bring another and possibly the largest to it? I don't. Lebron is committed to Cleveland. Could there be a greater lecagy than "I won a major sports championship for a franchise in Cleveland?" I doubt it. Get the heck off that boat.
An Article about rooting against your team. I disagree with some of his points. Fantasy sports are never as important as real sports. Nor is a single player worth rooting against your team. But, other than that, it was a decent read.
College Football Preview
Not many great games this week, but ... I might as well offer a few predictions
I like Arizona State to edge out Cal. Ohio State should blow out, yes blow out by at least 4 touchdowns, Penn State. Likewise, I think Notre dame blows out Michigan State.
Oh ... and a random thought ... could this year's Oakland Raiders be the worst professional sports team in my lifetime?
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Separation Saturday
Wow. What an amazing day of college football. It's days like these that remind us why we love the game. And why we watch it and follow it so intently.
Ohio State had a very good showing. They struggled in the first half of a classic trap game coming off the high of last week, but the second half showed, once again, that they are the #1 team in the country. That, coupled with M*ch*g*n's drubbing of Notre Dame (which made me sad), has me dreaming of another (albeit unlikely) 1 vs 2 matchup this season, this time in Columbus (how great would that be???).
I thought going into the game that the Auburn-LSU winner would be the #2 team in the nation, and I was proved right. That was a heck of a defensive struggle. It might have severely hurt Kenny Irons' Heisman hopes, but I think he'd trade that for a trip to the Fiesta Bowl.
If the season ended right now, we'd have an amazing National Title Game. The amazing defense of Auburn against the explosive offense of Ohio State. I know we've got a long way to go still, but I can see both teams holding on and giving us that match-up. Still, Ohio State has to get through Michigan, Iowa, Penn State, and a couple of Big Ten trap games, while Auburn's got plenty of heavy hitters and the big 'Bama game. Here's hoping Ohio State and Auburn make it, though.
Other teams making big impressions with me: Florida, Louisville, and Georgia. Georgia's D looks suffocating, I guess Louisville doesn't miss Bush all that much afterall, and it looks like Urban's system might be starting to click. That Georga-Florida cocktail party is going to be a great match-up, another amazing O vs. amazing d match-up. And is there anyone willing to bet the under when West Virginia plays Louisville?
Here's my updated top 25
1. Ohio State
2. Auburn
3. Florida
4. Michigan
5. West Virginia
6. Georgia
7. Louisville
8. USC
9. Virginia tech
10. Oregon
11. TCU
12. Iowa
13. Texas
14. LSU
15. Notre Dame
16. Boston College
17. Boise State
18. Arizona State
19. Michigan State
20. Penn State
21. Cal
22. Oklahoma
23. Tennessee
24. Clemson
25. Nebraska
26. Akron
And, my updated Heisman Ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Steve Slaton, West Virginia
3. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
4. Mario Manningham, Michigan
5. Mike Klinkenborg, Iowa
Ohio State had a very good showing. They struggled in the first half of a classic trap game coming off the high of last week, but the second half showed, once again, that they are the #1 team in the country. That, coupled with M*ch*g*n's drubbing of Notre Dame (which made me sad), has me dreaming of another (albeit unlikely) 1 vs 2 matchup this season, this time in Columbus (how great would that be???).
I thought going into the game that the Auburn-LSU winner would be the #2 team in the nation, and I was proved right. That was a heck of a defensive struggle. It might have severely hurt Kenny Irons' Heisman hopes, but I think he'd trade that for a trip to the Fiesta Bowl.
If the season ended right now, we'd have an amazing National Title Game. The amazing defense of Auburn against the explosive offense of Ohio State. I know we've got a long way to go still, but I can see both teams holding on and giving us that match-up. Still, Ohio State has to get through Michigan, Iowa, Penn State, and a couple of Big Ten trap games, while Auburn's got plenty of heavy hitters and the big 'Bama game. Here's hoping Ohio State and Auburn make it, though.
Other teams making big impressions with me: Florida, Louisville, and Georgia. Georgia's D looks suffocating, I guess Louisville doesn't miss Bush all that much afterall, and it looks like Urban's system might be starting to click. That Georga-Florida cocktail party is going to be a great match-up, another amazing O vs. amazing d match-up. And is there anyone willing to bet the under when West Virginia plays Louisville?
Here's my updated top 25
1. Ohio State
2. Auburn
3. Florida
4. Michigan
5. West Virginia
6. Georgia
7. Louisville
8. USC
9. Virginia tech
10. Oregon
11. TCU
12. Iowa
13. Texas
14. LSU
15. Notre Dame
16. Boston College
17. Boise State
18. Arizona State
19. Michigan State
20. Penn State
21. Cal
22. Oklahoma
23. Tennessee
24. Clemson
25. Nebraska
26. Akron
And, my updated Heisman Ballot:
1. Troy Smith, Ohio State
2. Steve Slaton, West Virginia
3. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
4. Mario Manningham, Michigan
5. Mike Klinkenborg, Iowa
Friday, September 15, 2006
Go Away
Go Away.
Your 15 minutes are up.
Actually, they were up a while ago. I don't know why you're still here.
I'm talking to you, Michelle Wie.
You finished dead last at the European Masters a week ago.
This week, you finished dead last, again, this time at the 84 Lumber Classic
You are not revelant.
You are not entertaining.
You are not worthy of my time.
You should not be be getting the face time you get on ESPN.
Go play on the LPGA tour
Win something there.
Then, maybe, maybe, take another shot at a PGA tour event.
But for now, just go away.
And take Danica Patrick with you
Your 15 minutes are up.
Actually, they were up a while ago. I don't know why you're still here.
I'm talking to you, Michelle Wie.
You finished dead last at the European Masters a week ago.
This week, you finished dead last, again, this time at the 84 Lumber Classic
You are not revelant.
You are not entertaining.
You are not worthy of my time.
You should not be be getting the face time you get on ESPN.
Go play on the LPGA tour
Win something there.
Then, maybe, maybe, take another shot at a PGA tour event.
But for now, just go away.
And take Danica Patrick with you
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
PTI
Alright, so in addition to sporting news, one thing I'd like to start doing on this blog is reviewing, commenting, and so on Sports Writers, Columns, Shows, and the such. And, I'll start with my personal favorite among Sports TV Shows, Pardon the Interruption (PTI).
Obviously, by my saying that it's my "personal favorite", you know that I give it at least favorable reviews. The question for me is ... why?
The hosts of the Show are Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon. Neither of which, on their own, are what I'd call entertaining nor insightful. Prior to PTI, I very much disliked Kornheiser, seeing him as a bumbling idiot who didn't have much to offer. PTI was my first exposure to Wilbon, but he's done nothing and said nothing that makes me say "wow, this guy gets it".
So, clearly, what makes PTI great can't be PTI, right?
So we look at the formula ... a handful of "quick-hit" topics, an interview, a goofy segment with shorter quick hits, errors, happy-happys, and a big finish. None of these seem to add to the charm. There's usually no great knowledge displayed, neither of them have interview skills that are that great, and they flip-flop on predictions so frequently, that it's hard to count on those for anything.
So, clearly, it can't be the formula.
Yet, if I turn on the TV at 6:30 (to catch the ESPNews replay), and either (or both) of them is missing for the day, I often turn it off, because the show isn't nearly as good.
I guess ... it's just that unknown "it" factor. We talk about it all the time with players (Tom Brady has "it" ... his arm isn't as good as Peyton Manning, his legs aren't as good as Vick, but he wins because he has "it"). Part of it is their chemistry together, but it goes beyond that. Tom Jackson and Chris Berman have great chemistry, but they are nowhere near (for me) as watchable and entertaining as PTI.
It really is that "it" factor.
So what are your thoughts? What makes PTI so good? Or am I totally wrong and PTI sucks? Who/what else in sports has that "it" factor?
Obviously, by my saying that it's my "personal favorite", you know that I give it at least favorable reviews. The question for me is ... why?
The hosts of the Show are Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon. Neither of which, on their own, are what I'd call entertaining nor insightful. Prior to PTI, I very much disliked Kornheiser, seeing him as a bumbling idiot who didn't have much to offer. PTI was my first exposure to Wilbon, but he's done nothing and said nothing that makes me say "wow, this guy gets it".
So, clearly, what makes PTI great can't be PTI, right?
So we look at the formula ... a handful of "quick-hit" topics, an interview, a goofy segment with shorter quick hits, errors, happy-happys, and a big finish. None of these seem to add to the charm. There's usually no great knowledge displayed, neither of them have interview skills that are that great, and they flip-flop on predictions so frequently, that it's hard to count on those for anything.
So, clearly, it can't be the formula.
Yet, if I turn on the TV at 6:30 (to catch the ESPNews replay), and either (or both) of them is missing for the day, I often turn it off, because the show isn't nearly as good.
I guess ... it's just that unknown "it" factor. We talk about it all the time with players (Tom Brady has "it" ... his arm isn't as good as Peyton Manning, his legs aren't as good as Vick, but he wins because he has "it"). Part of it is their chemistry together, but it goes beyond that. Tom Jackson and Chris Berman have great chemistry, but they are nowhere near (for me) as watchable and entertaining as PTI.
It really is that "it" factor.
So what are your thoughts? What makes PTI so good? Or am I totally wrong and PTI sucks? Who/what else in sports has that "it" factor?
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
CFB
As promised, a college football post. I'll hold my tongue on this post for my rant about the lack of a playoff system, about the lack of good scheduling, and just do some analysis. I'll rant later.
Top 25
Here's what my top 25 would look like if I had a ballot to fill out:
1. Ohio State
2. LSU
3. Notre Dame
4. USC
5. West Virginia
6. Auburn
7. Florida
8. Georgia
9. Florida State
10. Virginia Tech
11. Texas
12. Tennessee
13. Iowa
14. Michigan
15. TCU
16. Oklahoma
17. Boston College
18. Miami (Fl)
19. Louisville
20. Boise St.
21. Nebraska
22. Oregon
23. Arizona State
24. Texas Tech
25. Clemson
26. Akron (see below)
(Disclaimer: I think polls this early in the season are stupid. We really haven't seen enough out of most teams to say "that's a top five or a top ten team" ... we have out of Ohio State, but that's about it. However, it's done and it's done, so there's mine).
Heisman
If I had a Heisman Ballot, it'd look a little something like this:
1. Troy Smith
2. Ted Ginn Jr.
3. Adrian Peterson
4. Steve Slaton
5. Kenny Irons
(Dislaimer: As the season wears on, the true best players in the nation will emerge. This will, in all probability, be an offensive lineman. As such, my Heisman ballot will reflect the actual best player in the nation, not just the best QB/RB and maybe WR. As of now, though, with mainly cupcake games played, the skill positions are shining the brightest, and as such, my ballot reflects that)
Upsets
I'd also love to give mad props to Akron for going for the win, rather than playing for overtime on Saturday. I'd say the odds that you score from that far out are, at worst, 50/50. If you kick the field goal and go to overtime, the talent difference between a middle-of-the-pack (no pun intended) ACC team and a lower-rung MAC team will be enough that the ACC team will win 90-99% of the time. And then your long, hard-fought day becomes a foot note of "gave a scare to" instead of "pulled off a great upset". So, major props for going for the win, doing the smart thing and getting rewarded. For that reason, you get honorary placement at #26 on my ballot this week, and will remain there until another team knocks you off (or you do something stupid to knock yourself off).
Props also to Air Force for attempting a similar feat, even though they fell short. Two point conversion rates are somewhere around 58% I believe, while OT success is, at best, 50/50 (lower, probably, given the talent difference between AFA and UT). The gamble didn't pay off, but I still give you mad props and great respect.
Top 25
Here's what my top 25 would look like if I had a ballot to fill out:
1. Ohio State
2. LSU
3. Notre Dame
4. USC
5. West Virginia
6. Auburn
7. Florida
8. Georgia
9. Florida State
10. Virginia Tech
11. Texas
12. Tennessee
13. Iowa
14. Michigan
15. TCU
16. Oklahoma
17. Boston College
18. Miami (Fl)
19. Louisville
20. Boise St.
21. Nebraska
22. Oregon
23. Arizona State
24. Texas Tech
25. Clemson
26. Akron (see below)
(Disclaimer: I think polls this early in the season are stupid. We really haven't seen enough out of most teams to say "that's a top five or a top ten team" ... we have out of Ohio State, but that's about it. However, it's done and it's done, so there's mine).
Heisman
If I had a Heisman Ballot, it'd look a little something like this:
1. Troy Smith
2. Ted Ginn Jr.
3. Adrian Peterson
4. Steve Slaton
5. Kenny Irons
(Dislaimer: As the season wears on, the true best players in the nation will emerge. This will, in all probability, be an offensive lineman. As such, my Heisman ballot will reflect the actual best player in the nation, not just the best QB/RB and maybe WR. As of now, though, with mainly cupcake games played, the skill positions are shining the brightest, and as such, my ballot reflects that)
Upsets
I'd also love to give mad props to Akron for going for the win, rather than playing for overtime on Saturday. I'd say the odds that you score from that far out are, at worst, 50/50. If you kick the field goal and go to overtime, the talent difference between a middle-of-the-pack (no pun intended) ACC team and a lower-rung MAC team will be enough that the ACC team will win 90-99% of the time. And then your long, hard-fought day becomes a foot note of "gave a scare to" instead of "pulled off a great upset". So, major props for going for the win, doing the smart thing and getting rewarded. For that reason, you get honorary placement at #26 on my ballot this week, and will remain there until another team knocks you off (or you do something stupid to knock yourself off).
Props also to Air Force for attempting a similar feat, even though they fell short. Two point conversion rates are somewhere around 58% I believe, while OT success is, at best, 50/50 (lower, probably, given the talent difference between AFA and UT). The gamble didn't pay off, but I still give you mad props and great respect.
Monday, September 11, 2006
MNF Game 1
0-1 on predictions made on this blog. Great start.
A couple of reactions from the game
A couple of reactions from the game
- Sean Taylor needs to grow up, and stop making stupid mistakes. Aggression is good (and neccessary to be a good safety in the NFL), but you have to know how to cap it and not take a ton of personal fouls.
- Mark Brunell is just not a good NFL QB. He doesn't strike fear into the heart of anyone on the defense, and that means they don't have to respect him. No way should a team featuring Randle El, Santana Moss, Brandon Lloyd, Cooley, and Clinton Portis barely scrape by to score 16 points. No way.
- Troy Williamson looked good. Looks like he just might develop into an NFL WR afterall.
- Brad Johnson ... is ugly. But he's efficient. He's like the poor man's Big Ben. Only, he's been around longer, so it's not a perfect analogy. Maybe Big Ben is the rich snob's Brad Johnson?
- Joe Theisman ... is horrible. I really don't have much to say beyond that. Except thank God that he's not paired with John Madden. That might cause me to chuck my television out the window. And I can't afford to replace either.
NFL Thoughts for Week 1 and Monday Previews
I love, absolutely love Football season. No other pro sport gives you one day per week to have so much to feast on, and have so much build up for every game. The 16-game season makes every single game count, unlike other sports where one loss can never be too damaging all by itself.
Anyways ...
THURSDAY
Pittsburgh 28, Miami 17
Dante Culpepper looked good for a half ... maybe even for three-quarters. But he never looked spectacular. And that's why Miami brought him in ... to be spectacular. He lost his cool and through a game-ending pick after being handed the game back after what seemed to be a game-losing pick. Amazing.
On the Steelers side, Fast Willie Parker looked good ... very good. Has anyone gotten less love for a 1000 yard seaons than Willie? Hopefully this year, everyone takes notice.
SUNDAY
New Orleans 19, Cleveland 14
The Browns looked impressive in defeat. I didn't see all of this game, but from what I saw, it looked as if a few minor things (like WRs) holding onto the ball would have helped. The two biggest things in this game for me were: Kellen Winslow showing up and performing and Reggie Bush living up to his hype with 100+ yards of total offense. Bush and Brees are nice puzzle pieces for the saints.
Seattle 9, Detroit 6
I was able to watch a good chunk of this game. Seattle looked tentative and out of sync. I think the NFC Superbowl curse will live on. They couldn't score double-digits on Detroit ... they'll never survive a first-place schedule ... even in the creampuff NFC West. Maybe Detroit's defense is that good, but I doubt it.
New York Jets 23, Tennessee 16
UGH @ Kerry Collins. Why is he playing? The Titans are going nowhere, why keep playing a journeyman quarterback who's lost it?
As to the Jets ... I wonder if Pennington is as good as he looked, or if it was the bad Titans D. I personally hope for the former, because I'm a big Pennington fan. Go MAC QBs!
Cincy 23, KC 10
Rudi Johnson is a beast. Marvin Lewis seems to be growing as a coach and learning the finer points of game management. That's scary.
Chad Johnson's hair ... also scary, but for a different reason.
St. Louis 18, Denver 10
I'm glad I didn't get to see any of this game. Looks like we're back to Bad Jake Plummer. I knew it wouldn't be long until he showed up again. Just wonder if the rest of Denver can carry them to respectable, or if they'll be floundering before too long. Should we start the "Countdown to Cutler?"
New England 19, Buffalo 17
How ... how ... how do you lose a game on a safety in the 4th quarter? I would have fird Jauron right after that play. Other than that, the only real revelation coming from this game is that, yes, the Patriots are going to miss Branch. Maybe it would help if they got rid of the distraction, but I think even more than that, they need his talent to open up the field for the tight ends.
Baltimore 27, Tampa Bay 0
Ummm ... way to get spanked, Tampa. I'm still not sold on Steve McNair as still being a viable quarterback, but for now I guess I have to eat my crow about him being way past prime. Just wait till he gets injured ... again.
Atlanta 20, Carolina 6
You have to think that this game would be different if Steve Smith played. Still, the A-T-L running game looked good and Michael-Mike Vick looked good, too. He'll never be a great quarterback, but if he (and the coaches) accept his role as a game-manager who can make a great play once a half, they are very good and very dangerous.
Philadelphia 24, Houston 10
Think this game might have been different if Reggie Bush was in Houston? Or if Dante Stalworth wasn't in Philly? He looked good.
(As an aside ... I want Mario Williams to succeed and to be better than Reggie Bush. If only to shut up so-called experts. But it isn't going to happen. The Texans talked themselves out of a difference maker to get a guy who is going to be closer to Courtney Brown than Julius Peppers. And why didn't anyone mention Brown during the draft? Every comparison was to Peppers ... wasn't Courtney Brown a can't-miss Defensive End?)
Arizona 34, San Fransisco 27
Then again, maybe Vernon Davis is the real offensive steal from the last draft. He made Alex Smith look like an NFL Quarterback! I didn't think anyone could make that happen.
And if the Cards are going to struggle to beat the 49ers (!!!) there is no way they'll live up to their "sleeper" hype ... again. Welcome to 7-9 land, Cards fans. You've been here a while, and you're not gonna leave.
Jacksonville 24, Dallas 17
I am going to boycott all things TO. That includes reactions from any game he plays in.
Indianapolis 26, New York Giants 21
I, for one, am glad this game is over, so I can stop hearing about Manning vs. Manning. It was even more hyped than any (and I mean any) Red Sox-Yankees game. The actual game itself provided some clarity for the NFL season.
1) The Colts are going to miss Edge. Welcome back to the playoffs, Peyton. You'll be 0-1 here again.
2) Plexico Burress stinks. He never fights for a ball in the air. He just runs his patterns and catches what comes to him naturally. What a worthless punk.
3) Eli needs to work on clock management. Welcome to 8-8 and missing the playoffs, kid.
Monday Night
Is Phillip Rivers the most blessed young QB since Big Ben? Seriously. He gets a team with Antiono Gates, LT, and a very good defense. Plus, he gets his first game against the Raiders. Not only the Raiders, but the Raiders quarterbacked by Aaron Brooks. The same Aaron Brooks he nullfies the Raiders best weapon, Randy Moss, and allows them to key on their next best weapon, Lamont Jordan. The chargers should take this one easily. Somewhere around 38-3 (expect LT to have 2 TDs and a buck-fiddy).
Minnesota vs. Washington should be a better game, but there's no denying which team has more talent. The only problem with that team, is that it has a QB I have no faith in ... and who seems to be declining rapidly, and might not be able to involve that talent in the game. Why doesn't Washington bite the bullet and start Jason Campbell? Surely, he can manage a game, hit short passes to Cooley and the speedy wideouts and involve the running game and get 11 wins this year, right? Even will noodle-arm Brunell, the Skins have too much talent (and too good a coaching staff) to lose this game. Should be somewhere around Redskins 17, Vikings 7.
Please leave your thoughts and feedback in the comments section. I'll get some college football thoughts up next, along with my rankings (not sure if I'll do top ten, 16, or 25 yet though).
Anyways ...
THURSDAY
Pittsburgh 28, Miami 17
Dante Culpepper looked good for a half ... maybe even for three-quarters. But he never looked spectacular. And that's why Miami brought him in ... to be spectacular. He lost his cool and through a game-ending pick after being handed the game back after what seemed to be a game-losing pick. Amazing.
On the Steelers side, Fast Willie Parker looked good ... very good. Has anyone gotten less love for a 1000 yard seaons than Willie? Hopefully this year, everyone takes notice.
SUNDAY
New Orleans 19, Cleveland 14
The Browns looked impressive in defeat. I didn't see all of this game, but from what I saw, it looked as if a few minor things (like WRs) holding onto the ball would have helped. The two biggest things in this game for me were: Kellen Winslow showing up and performing and Reggie Bush living up to his hype with 100+ yards of total offense. Bush and Brees are nice puzzle pieces for the saints.
Seattle 9, Detroit 6
I was able to watch a good chunk of this game. Seattle looked tentative and out of sync. I think the NFC Superbowl curse will live on. They couldn't score double-digits on Detroit ... they'll never survive a first-place schedule ... even in the creampuff NFC West. Maybe Detroit's defense is that good, but I doubt it.
New York Jets 23, Tennessee 16
UGH @ Kerry Collins. Why is he playing? The Titans are going nowhere, why keep playing a journeyman quarterback who's lost it?
As to the Jets ... I wonder if Pennington is as good as he looked, or if it was the bad Titans D. I personally hope for the former, because I'm a big Pennington fan. Go MAC QBs!
Cincy 23, KC 10
Rudi Johnson is a beast. Marvin Lewis seems to be growing as a coach and learning the finer points of game management. That's scary.
Chad Johnson's hair ... also scary, but for a different reason.
St. Louis 18, Denver 10
I'm glad I didn't get to see any of this game. Looks like we're back to Bad Jake Plummer. I knew it wouldn't be long until he showed up again. Just wonder if the rest of Denver can carry them to respectable, or if they'll be floundering before too long. Should we start the "Countdown to Cutler?"
New England 19, Buffalo 17
How ... how ... how do you lose a game on a safety in the 4th quarter? I would have fird Jauron right after that play. Other than that, the only real revelation coming from this game is that, yes, the Patriots are going to miss Branch. Maybe it would help if they got rid of the distraction, but I think even more than that, they need his talent to open up the field for the tight ends.
Baltimore 27, Tampa Bay 0
Ummm ... way to get spanked, Tampa. I'm still not sold on Steve McNair as still being a viable quarterback, but for now I guess I have to eat my crow about him being way past prime. Just wait till he gets injured ... again.
Atlanta 20, Carolina 6
You have to think that this game would be different if Steve Smith played. Still, the A-T-L running game looked good and Michael-Mike Vick looked good, too. He'll never be a great quarterback, but if he (and the coaches) accept his role as a game-manager who can make a great play once a half, they are very good and very dangerous.
Philadelphia 24, Houston 10
Think this game might have been different if Reggie Bush was in Houston? Or if Dante Stalworth wasn't in Philly? He looked good.
(As an aside ... I want Mario Williams to succeed and to be better than Reggie Bush. If only to shut up so-called experts. But it isn't going to happen. The Texans talked themselves out of a difference maker to get a guy who is going to be closer to Courtney Brown than Julius Peppers. And why didn't anyone mention Brown during the draft? Every comparison was to Peppers ... wasn't Courtney Brown a can't-miss Defensive End?)
Arizona 34, San Fransisco 27
Then again, maybe Vernon Davis is the real offensive steal from the last draft. He made Alex Smith look like an NFL Quarterback! I didn't think anyone could make that happen.
And if the Cards are going to struggle to beat the 49ers (!!!) there is no way they'll live up to their "sleeper" hype ... again. Welcome to 7-9 land, Cards fans. You've been here a while, and you're not gonna leave.
Jacksonville 24, Dallas 17
I am going to boycott all things TO. That includes reactions from any game he plays in.
Indianapolis 26, New York Giants 21
I, for one, am glad this game is over, so I can stop hearing about Manning vs. Manning. It was even more hyped than any (and I mean any) Red Sox-Yankees game. The actual game itself provided some clarity for the NFL season.
1) The Colts are going to miss Edge. Welcome back to the playoffs, Peyton. You'll be 0-1 here again.
2) Plexico Burress stinks. He never fights for a ball in the air. He just runs his patterns and catches what comes to him naturally. What a worthless punk.
3) Eli needs to work on clock management. Welcome to 8-8 and missing the playoffs, kid.
Monday Night
Is Phillip Rivers the most blessed young QB since Big Ben? Seriously. He gets a team with Antiono Gates, LT, and a very good defense. Plus, he gets his first game against the Raiders. Not only the Raiders, but the Raiders quarterbacked by Aaron Brooks. The same Aaron Brooks he nullfies the Raiders best weapon, Randy Moss, and allows them to key on their next best weapon, Lamont Jordan. The chargers should take this one easily. Somewhere around 38-3 (expect LT to have 2 TDs and a buck-fiddy).
Minnesota vs. Washington should be a better game, but there's no denying which team has more talent. The only problem with that team, is that it has a QB I have no faith in ... and who seems to be declining rapidly, and might not be able to involve that talent in the game. Why doesn't Washington bite the bullet and start Jason Campbell? Surely, he can manage a game, hit short passes to Cooley and the speedy wideouts and involve the running game and get 11 wins this year, right? Even will noodle-arm Brunell, the Skins have too much talent (and too good a coaching staff) to lose this game. Should be somewhere around Redskins 17, Vikings 7.
Please leave your thoughts and feedback in the comments section. I'll get some college football thoughts up next, along with my rankings (not sure if I'll do top ten, 16, or 25 yet though).
Sunday, September 10, 2006
What is this?
This is my new, sports-only blog (obviously).
Man, I hate when I do that. When I just state the obvious.
Anyways, I'll use this for a variety of reasons. Previews and reviews of games and seasons, reactions, opinions, article reviews, news reactions, links, and whatever else. It'll all be sports-related, and it'll all be biased.
Just the way sports should be.
I'll probably have some NFL Week 1 stuff up soon, as well as some College Football stuff.
Man, I hate when I do that. When I just state the obvious.
Anyways, I'll use this for a variety of reasons. Previews and reviews of games and seasons, reactions, opinions, article reviews, news reactions, links, and whatever else. It'll all be sports-related, and it'll all be biased.
Just the way sports should be.
I'll probably have some NFL Week 1 stuff up soon, as well as some College Football stuff.
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