Philly without T.O. is almost like Minnesota without Randy Moss - only with a MUCH better defense. Although I'm not sure that they have the offensive power to inspire fear in defenses any more. But they are still the class in the NFC.
Is New England in a free fall after an unbelievable loss to the DOLPHINS, of all teams? Nope. Tom Brady is human, he made a human mistake. They will bounce back. However, they are still behind the Steelers in the AFC, and my Super Bowl matchup is still PITT/PHILLY.
The hard tackle by Jacksonville safety Donovin Darius was a cheap shot. Why it's a cheap shot is because the receiver (Robert Ferguson) was defenseless, and the hit was too vicious. Receivers are constantly exposed on routes across the middle, and defenders need to take responsiblity to NOT headhunt. Any hit that leaves a man temporarily paralyzed, especially a clothesline hit like that one, had questionable intentions in my opinion. But it doesn't end there. Nope, Jaquars coach Jack DelRio stuck his foot in his mouth by saying this "...He attempted to club at the football and ended up clubbing the guy in the head. It should be flagged and it was. I'm sure it will be fined and it should be..." Yeah, nice analysis Jack. And Marty McSorley was "...only trying to hit him in the shoulder..." when he viciously clubbed Donald Brashear in the side of the head - oh yeah, THAT hit produced a concussion and temporary paralysis as well. Nice...
Now Ricky Williams wants another opinion on whether he owes the Dolphins 8.6 million, WHEN HE JUST QUIT ON THEM! Sorry Ricky, I'll be very surprised if that decision is overturned. YOu're gonna hafta get a REAL job to afford da ganja. Wait, I have a suggestion; practice this..."would you like to supersize that?".
Congratulations to Bob Huggins for win number 550. Win number 4 against opponents in the top 100 of Division I hoops. Huggins schedules so many cupcakes that he should be called "Hostess". If the NCAA tournament started next week, the Bearcats would stay at win #550 for the entire winter - the annual gagfest in the NCAA tourney is predictable, like clockwork. That program is a dirty as a diaper too...
Why would Orlando Cabrera leave the Sox? For the Angels no less? Money baby...what an idiot. Guess you win one World Series and it's all about the Benjamins...
On a side note, TILAM's visit to Thew's crib was fun. It's always good to have him around, to chat, argue, and reminisce. And you, dear readers, if I cannot spout of drivel again before this holiday season, I wish you and yours all the best life has to offer in the coming days.
12.14.2004
Real Life Meeting
OMG, TILAM is going to be in the hometown of Thew in the coming days. Look for a little bit of beer, a fair amount of nibblings, and a ton of yapping. That sound you hear drowning out PTI on ESPN is the sound of TILAM and Thew chatting. :)
Playing beats watching. Anytime, Anyday. Being a parent and watching your kids play, learning the game(s), succeeding, messing up, it's the WORST. But I try to just root them on and give them support. Beats eating out my liver...
Of note on Q-school - "schmucks" like us are NOT eligible for Q-school. Unless I miss my guess, you need to have a 1 or better handicap, or so I thought. But maybe it IS open to any schmuck with $4500 to throw away. $2500 for TILAM, as he's flying face first into Champions Tour Q-school. But still, a pitiful number of Q-school winners actually keep their cards for the next year. Only 7 of 35 Q-school grads kept their cards, while 8 of 20 Nationwide Tour grads kept theirs? Hmmm, makes you wonder which prepares a player better for the PGA tour, Q-school or the mini-tour(s).
Tim Rosaforte wrote an interesting article about Tiger and a return of the "old Tiger" at the Target championship. Whether he sticks around remains to be seen, but it was nice bit of viewing for Tiger fans.
Eli Manning will stink it up for a while - but I'm not sure it's because HE stinks or the people around him stink. First impression...the Gmen's offense is lousy.
Interesting stat (but only for a moment) - Koby is averaging MORE points and MORE assists than Shaq, yet has fewer wins. Wait, who cares?
Another chink in Wake Forest's armor, barely holding Temple.
Uh Oh, the D-Backs really want to unload Randy Johnson on the Yankees. They contact the team to see if the answer to their too-demanding trade was different. We'll see, but giving up Vasquez and Halsey for the Big Unit, is, in my HUMBLE opinion, a stupid move. As time goes on, maybe 'Zona will reduce their asking price, but Cashman is too smart, this is a bad deal, and will continue to be a bad deal while Vasquez and Halsey are involved.
On a side note, congratulations to Peter Gammons for winning the J.G. Taylor Spink Award for outstanding baseball writing, given annually to a writer "for meritorious contributions to baseball writing." Now, Gammons might talk funny, but I enjoy his insite and knowledge on baseball, and there is no more deserving candidate than Peter.
Oh, who won the Heisman? Does anyone care?
And more from College football (i.e. the big business): "A former University of Colorado soccer player dropped her federal lawsuit against the school Monday, saying she could no longer endure the legal "guerrilla warfare" in a case at the heart of the sex-and-recruiting scandal surrounding the football team." Oh, and in the true cynical manner of Thew, all the benjamins you received under the table as hush money has nothing to do with this? PUHLEEZE. Someone check her bank account, or the account of her closest peeps.
Wait, are we not arguing about something this post? How disappointing...
Playing beats watching. Anytime, Anyday. Being a parent and watching your kids play, learning the game(s), succeeding, messing up, it's the WORST. But I try to just root them on and give them support. Beats eating out my liver...
Of note on Q-school - "schmucks" like us are NOT eligible for Q-school. Unless I miss my guess, you need to have a 1 or better handicap, or so I thought. But maybe it IS open to any schmuck with $4500 to throw away. $2500 for TILAM, as he's flying face first into Champions Tour Q-school. But still, a pitiful number of Q-school winners actually keep their cards for the next year. Only 7 of 35 Q-school grads kept their cards, while 8 of 20 Nationwide Tour grads kept theirs? Hmmm, makes you wonder which prepares a player better for the PGA tour, Q-school or the mini-tour(s).
Tim Rosaforte wrote an interesting article about Tiger and a return of the "old Tiger" at the Target championship. Whether he sticks around remains to be seen, but it was nice bit of viewing for Tiger fans.
Eli Manning will stink it up for a while - but I'm not sure it's because HE stinks or the people around him stink. First impression...the Gmen's offense is lousy.
Interesting stat (but only for a moment) - Koby is averaging MORE points and MORE assists than Shaq, yet has fewer wins. Wait, who cares?
Another chink in Wake Forest's armor, barely holding Temple.
Uh Oh, the D-Backs really want to unload Randy Johnson on the Yankees. They contact the team to see if the answer to their too-demanding trade was different. We'll see, but giving up Vasquez and Halsey for the Big Unit, is, in my HUMBLE opinion, a stupid move. As time goes on, maybe 'Zona will reduce their asking price, but Cashman is too smart, this is a bad deal, and will continue to be a bad deal while Vasquez and Halsey are involved.
On a side note, congratulations to Peter Gammons for winning the J.G. Taylor Spink Award for outstanding baseball writing, given annually to a writer "for meritorious contributions to baseball writing." Now, Gammons might talk funny, but I enjoy his insite and knowledge on baseball, and there is no more deserving candidate than Peter.
Oh, who won the Heisman? Does anyone care?
And more from College football (i.e. the big business): "A former University of Colorado soccer player dropped her federal lawsuit against the school Monday, saying she could no longer endure the legal "guerrilla warfare" in a case at the heart of the sex-and-recruiting scandal surrounding the football team." Oh, and in the true cynical manner of Thew, all the benjamins you received under the table as hush money has nothing to do with this? PUHLEEZE. Someone check her bank account, or the account of her closest peeps.
Wait, are we not arguing about something this post? How disappointing...
12.13.2004
The Gloves are Back On
I did not call you a 13 year old fanboy - an almost 40 year old fan boy, maybe. You are clearly out of my league in terms of hockey knowledge, not doubt, but I do pay attention to hockey like I pay attention to baseball - interest for my team (Bruins) until they are out of it (first round of the playoffs).
You bring up an intersting point generally though, I find myself not paying too much attention to players on any pro team. Sure the stars are there; some special teams (1996-2000 Yankees) and some guys that I have a distant connection with (Craig Conroy, ex-linesmen with Iginla now of the Kings), but overall I do not obsess about rosters. I am sure there are several reasons why. The players move around a bunch, for example.
I also developed too much of a visceral addiction to the joy of playing. The satisfaction I get from the fan experience does not come close. Anyone who has scored the game winning goal, touchdown, run, point, ect. know what I mean. It is a huge thrill. That lingers. For a long time.
Or maybe I am paying too much attention to the wife and kids...
***
As for Kobe, Phil Taylor says it best it best: "How exactly does a man who admitted to committing what became one of the most public acts of adultery in recent memory manage to work up a sense of outrage over a few out-of-line comments?"
Does Bryant understand what an a**hole he looks like? I guess if he did, he wouldn't be Kobe...
***
Chris Lewis of SI has an interesting article on Q-School and whether it is useful or not. I think he misses the point. Q School is open tryouts for the PGA Tour. It enable schmucks like me who have a low handicap and a dream (I have neither, but stay with me here) to take a crack at the bigs. Outlived its usefullness? Not a chance.
You bring up an intersting point generally though, I find myself not paying too much attention to players on any pro team. Sure the stars are there; some special teams (1996-2000 Yankees) and some guys that I have a distant connection with (Craig Conroy, ex-linesmen with Iginla now of the Kings), but overall I do not obsess about rosters. I am sure there are several reasons why. The players move around a bunch, for example.
I also developed too much of a visceral addiction to the joy of playing. The satisfaction I get from the fan experience does not come close. Anyone who has scored the game winning goal, touchdown, run, point, ect. know what I mean. It is a huge thrill. That lingers. For a long time.
Or maybe I am paying too much attention to the wife and kids...
***
As for Kobe, Phil Taylor says it best it best: "How exactly does a man who admitted to committing what became one of the most public acts of adultery in recent memory manage to work up a sense of outrage over a few out-of-line comments?"
Does Bryant understand what an a**hole he looks like? I guess if he did, he wouldn't be Kobe...
***
Chris Lewis of SI has an interesting article on Q-School and whether it is useful or not. I think he misses the point. Q School is open tryouts for the PGA Tour. It enable schmucks like me who have a low handicap and a dream (I have neither, but stay with me here) to take a crack at the bigs. Outlived its usefullness? Not a chance.
13 Year Old Fanboy?!
Yer killin' me. How many conversations have we had on the phone when I've tried to talk about hockey and you said "dude, i just don't follow hockey". And anyone can spout about last year's Stanley Cup finals, what commentary can you spout about the regular season? You are a lip-service hockey fan who knows just enough to yap semi-intelligently about it (stress on the "semi-") and play like you know that you're talking about. Actually, if you look through hockey sites and tracking, you'll find that there are more guys who are traditional "non-fighters" mixing it up and sticking up for themselves. Jarome Iginla (know who he is?) beating the snot out of Bill (cheap shot) Guerin is an example. My point is that hockey has always been a violent sport, and fighting has always been a part of it. But "the fight" is NOT the end all and the be all to move hockey into the national spotlight. And trust me, it's business - how do you explain many friends who have fights during the season spending time together off the ice, which is the case in quite a few instances?
I am against both sides - the greedy players who have become spoiled by rising salaries, the moron owners who have ponied up too much money and have fostered this era of unprofitability - both have put the league into this work stoppage. Hockey players AND owners need to realize that the simple economics of this sport will NOT share the same model as the ever popular revenue giant that is MLB or NFL. It's just not that type of sport...yet. BUT, this assinine work stoppage is only putting a sport that's on fan life support deeper into a coma.
!!!
Wells to the Sox. Talk about an opportunity to stick it to King George - and I'm talking about Wells sticking him, not the Bosox.
Wright all of a sudden passes a physical a few days after he failed one? Things that make you go "hmmmmm"
Pavano will realize that pitching in the Bronx is NOTHING like pitching in no man's land. I hope he does well. And I look for Vasquez to come up with a solid year too. The Yankees' starting rotation is shaping up fairly nicely. Now if they can just hit consistently for an entire series...
I have come to really despise Scotty Boras. His arrogance is appalling. His over-inflating of his clients' worth is despicable. Beltran is NOT worth A-Rod money. A-Rod is not worth A-Rod money.
John Smoltz back in the starting rotation. Until his elbow gives out...
!!!
Philly will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl, and I believe that Ben RhowtheheckDOyouspellhisname will lead Pittsburgh there. Then DMc will finally push Philly over the hump. T.O. will howl that he was the missing piece, and frankly, I'll not disagree with him.
!!!
The new definition of hell: anywhere near Kobe and his soap opera of an environment.
!!!
Tiger won. Uh oh. He looked solid in his game last Sunday. Paddy blinked on 18 big time. Is this a tease or a portent of things to come in 2005? Stay tuned, but for at least 1 weekend, welcome back Tiger. :)
I am against both sides - the greedy players who have become spoiled by rising salaries, the moron owners who have ponied up too much money and have fostered this era of unprofitability - both have put the league into this work stoppage. Hockey players AND owners need to realize that the simple economics of this sport will NOT share the same model as the ever popular revenue giant that is MLB or NFL. It's just not that type of sport...yet. BUT, this assinine work stoppage is only putting a sport that's on fan life support deeper into a coma.
!!!
Wells to the Sox. Talk about an opportunity to stick it to King George - and I'm talking about Wells sticking him, not the Bosox.
Wright all of a sudden passes a physical a few days after he failed one? Things that make you go "hmmmmm"
Pavano will realize that pitching in the Bronx is NOTHING like pitching in no man's land. I hope he does well. And I look for Vasquez to come up with a solid year too. The Yankees' starting rotation is shaping up fairly nicely. Now if they can just hit consistently for an entire series...
I have come to really despise Scotty Boras. His arrogance is appalling. His over-inflating of his clients' worth is despicable. Beltran is NOT worth A-Rod money. A-Rod is not worth A-Rod money.
John Smoltz back in the starting rotation. Until his elbow gives out...
!!!
Philly will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl, and I believe that Ben RhowtheheckDOyouspellhisname will lead Pittsburgh there. Then DMc will finally push Philly over the hump. T.O. will howl that he was the missing piece, and frankly, I'll not disagree with him.
!!!
The new definition of hell: anywhere near Kobe and his soap opera of an environment.
!!!
Tiger won. Uh oh. He looked solid in his game last Sunday. Paddy blinked on 18 big time. Is this a tease or a portent of things to come in 2005? Stay tuned, but for at least 1 weekend, welcome back Tiger. :)
My Integrity is Impuned
Hah. I knew I would push his buttons. First off, don't accuse me of not being a hockey fan. I like hockey a heck of a lot more than your average Joe. (Last year's Stanley Cup match-up was about exciting as anything in sports.) I may not follow the player stats, team rosters and trivia like a 13 year old fanboy, but there are fewer sports that can be played with grace, speed and power as hockey. So can the "you're not a fan crap." What, I can only be a fan if I like "the fight?" (Besides, blogs are about opinions.)
The point about McSorley is well taken and supports my dismay of the game. Now, teams have to hire guys to protect the premium players from the enforcers. (Soon, the hockey line will consist of one good player, his protector, the enforcer, the enforce against the other teams' protector and the enforcer's protector, there to enable the enforcer to do his job.) And the only example you can come up with in football is one guy in COLLEGE? Jeez! The fact is that the NFL is extraordinarily disciplined for the amount of violent contact. It is not personal, it is business. Which is it in hockey? Business or personal?
Ah, the good old days of hockey. Before ESPN. I am not sure your point should be about the good old days, because that is exactly where the league does NOT want to go. Hockey is looking for a broad national appeal, it is not interested in being popular with a few guys from New England and the upper Midwest.
This back and forth is not about whether hockey is a great sport (it is), it is about what is ailing the league; how the league cures its woes and what might the future hold. So what started this? I am with the players on this.
***
Pavano to the Yankees. Wells to the Sox. I can't WAIT until April.
Obviously a good deal for the Yankees. Pavano for under $10 million per year. I am a little surprised, only because he was the obvious pitching star. (Especially, with Wright failing his physical.) Assuming Wright is a Yankee, the lineup could be Mussina, Pavano, Vasquez and Wright with El Duque as a fifth starter. I'll take that.
Depending on what happens to Martinez, Wells is a great add for them. Not only a good personally fit, but he still has a season left in him. He is also been fairly clutch in the post-season (his last game a notable exception). Schilling, Martinez, Well, Wakefield, with Lowe a possibility depending on the arbitration situation. But if Martinez leaves, Boston needs a number 2 guy in a bad way.
***
Jeez. What has happened to the PAC-10 in college Hoops?
Congratulations to Lute Olsen and Coach K on their milestones this past weekend. I may not be a big fan of Arizona and Duke, but each program is competitive year in, year out and you can't do that without a hall of fame coach.
***
I have not commented much on the football season. Frankly, because this is a boring year. The AFC seems to be loaded and there are 4 teams that seem to be the class of the league - New England, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis and Philadelphia. It is hard for me to envision a Super Bowl that is not NE v. Philly. Ben RoethIfreakingcantspellhisname is still too green to get past the title game and NE owns the Colts - something Peyton Manning has yet to come close to changing.
The point about McSorley is well taken and supports my dismay of the game. Now, teams have to hire guys to protect the premium players from the enforcers. (Soon, the hockey line will consist of one good player, his protector, the enforcer, the enforce against the other teams' protector and the enforcer's protector, there to enable the enforcer to do his job.) And the only example you can come up with in football is one guy in COLLEGE? Jeez! The fact is that the NFL is extraordinarily disciplined for the amount of violent contact. It is not personal, it is business. Which is it in hockey? Business or personal?
Ah, the good old days of hockey. Before ESPN. I am not sure your point should be about the good old days, because that is exactly where the league does NOT want to go. Hockey is looking for a broad national appeal, it is not interested in being popular with a few guys from New England and the upper Midwest.
This back and forth is not about whether hockey is a great sport (it is), it is about what is ailing the league; how the league cures its woes and what might the future hold. So what started this? I am with the players on this.
***
Pavano to the Yankees. Wells to the Sox. I can't WAIT until April.
Obviously a good deal for the Yankees. Pavano for under $10 million per year. I am a little surprised, only because he was the obvious pitching star. (Especially, with Wright failing his physical.) Assuming Wright is a Yankee, the lineup could be Mussina, Pavano, Vasquez and Wright with El Duque as a fifth starter. I'll take that.
Depending on what happens to Martinez, Wells is a great add for them. Not only a good personally fit, but he still has a season left in him. He is also been fairly clutch in the post-season (his last game a notable exception). Schilling, Martinez, Well, Wakefield, with Lowe a possibility depending on the arbitration situation. But if Martinez leaves, Boston needs a number 2 guy in a bad way.
***
Jeez. What has happened to the PAC-10 in college Hoops?
Congratulations to Lute Olsen and Coach K on their milestones this past weekend. I may not be a big fan of Arizona and Duke, but each program is competitive year in, year out and you can't do that without a hall of fame coach.
***
I have not commented much on the football season. Frankly, because this is a boring year. The AFC seems to be loaded and there are 4 teams that seem to be the class of the league - New England, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis and Philadelphia. It is hard for me to envision a Super Bowl that is not NE v. Philly. Ben RoethIfreakingcantspellhisname is still too green to get past the title game and NE owns the Colts - something Peyton Manning has yet to come close to changing.
12.12.2004
Hangover Ramblings...
UCONN looked like crap is right. 'Nuff Said! :(
I like Len Elmore, and I usually like Bill Raftery, but if he says "...and the KISS off the glass..." one more time, I'm going to kick my dog.
I cannot expand upon the excellent commentary by TILAM about NBA basketball. However, I do have an answer to his question... Who is the last "positive" NBA player? Grant Hill...
Hockey
Hmm, where do I start. That HOWLING you heard was the frustration on commentary by a non-NHL fan who last went to a hockey game when the Whalers played at the Mall in Hartford, CT. Hah, without cheating, name me the original 6!
Hockey has "the fight" as it's only selling point. BS. Back in the days of yore when hockey was played by the likes of a young Howe, Rickard, etc, hockey had "the fight" back then. Crowds were small, salaries were small, but the GAME was exciting and an occasional fight broke out (Thew has mentioned to TILAM that a brash young 18 year old named Gordie Howe actually dropped the gloves in his first all-star game). Hockey thrived, albeit on the fringe of sports, but thrived nonetheless. Oh, I agree, to hear the hoots and hollers when a fight breaks out (me included) I must concur that a fair portion of hockey entertainment is a good old fashioned knuckleduster. I'm not sure it's encouraged by the league (well, maybe behind closed doors the people who run the show know the value of fan interest), but yes, there are players who are recruited because of their prowess with the fists, not the stuck. But to say that hockey only generates interest for fighting, or at least to imply it, is ignorant, and shows the true ignorance of a lip service fan. You complain about the fight because you are NOT a hockey fan, and spout off about how that's the only way they are going to attract fringe fans. Spend some time at a real hockey game, you'll see how exciting it is even when there are no fights. People dog on hockey as a "thug" sport only because fighting has become an integral part of the game, as much a point of strategy at time as the power play. Oh, sure, there are guys who fight for the sake of fighting (Peat, Shelley, Danton, who's now fighting his way out of the clutches of a large inmate named "Bubba"), but for the most part fighting is not wanton and unpurposeful. Don't start about "emotions getting out of line", cuz I have 2 words...Ron Artest.
And PLEASE, don't start with me about using equipment as weapons. Soccer players kick each other with their cleats, baseball players have thrown bats/balls/helmets, football players have used helmets, etc. Oh sure, Marty McSorley completely sullied what was a decent career as Wayne Gretzky's bodyguard (oh wait, does TILAM even KNOW who Marty McSorley was before that last comment?), and there have been several minor league incidents with sticks, but hockey players aren't the only ones who use their tools as implements - stupidly, of course, but not the only ones.
Football players keep their cool? HAHA, pour yourself another beer! Kyle Turley, USC-CLEMSON, do I need to mention more? And boy, with a average of .64 fights per game last season in hockey (and only 41% of the total games in the NHL season actually had a fight), you can sure say it's an EPIDEMIC.
Tawk to me 'bout a sport you actually follow, silly boy.
I like Len Elmore, and I usually like Bill Raftery, but if he says "...and the KISS off the glass..." one more time, I'm going to kick my dog.
I cannot expand upon the excellent commentary by TILAM about NBA basketball. However, I do have an answer to his question... Who is the last "positive" NBA player? Grant Hill...
Hockey
Hmm, where do I start. That HOWLING you heard was the frustration on commentary by a non-NHL fan who last went to a hockey game when the Whalers played at the Mall in Hartford, CT. Hah, without cheating, name me the original 6!
Hockey has "the fight" as it's only selling point. BS. Back in the days of yore when hockey was played by the likes of a young Howe, Rickard, etc, hockey had "the fight" back then. Crowds were small, salaries were small, but the GAME was exciting and an occasional fight broke out (Thew has mentioned to TILAM that a brash young 18 year old named Gordie Howe actually dropped the gloves in his first all-star game). Hockey thrived, albeit on the fringe of sports, but thrived nonetheless. Oh, I agree, to hear the hoots and hollers when a fight breaks out (me included) I must concur that a fair portion of hockey entertainment is a good old fashioned knuckleduster. I'm not sure it's encouraged by the league (well, maybe behind closed doors the people who run the show know the value of fan interest), but yes, there are players who are recruited because of their prowess with the fists, not the stuck. But to say that hockey only generates interest for fighting, or at least to imply it, is ignorant, and shows the true ignorance of a lip service fan. You complain about the fight because you are NOT a hockey fan, and spout off about how that's the only way they are going to attract fringe fans. Spend some time at a real hockey game, you'll see how exciting it is even when there are no fights. People dog on hockey as a "thug" sport only because fighting has become an integral part of the game, as much a point of strategy at time as the power play. Oh, sure, there are guys who fight for the sake of fighting (Peat, Shelley, Danton, who's now fighting his way out of the clutches of a large inmate named "Bubba"), but for the most part fighting is not wanton and unpurposeful. Don't start about "emotions getting out of line", cuz I have 2 words...Ron Artest.
And PLEASE, don't start with me about using equipment as weapons. Soccer players kick each other with their cleats, baseball players have thrown bats/balls/helmets, football players have used helmets, etc. Oh sure, Marty McSorley completely sullied what was a decent career as Wayne Gretzky's bodyguard (oh wait, does TILAM even KNOW who Marty McSorley was before that last comment?), and there have been several minor league incidents with sticks, but hockey players aren't the only ones who use their tools as implements - stupidly, of course, but not the only ones.
Football players keep their cool? HAHA, pour yourself another beer! Kyle Turley, USC-CLEMSON, do I need to mention more? And boy, with a average of .64 fights per game last season in hockey (and only 41% of the total games in the NHL season actually had a fight), you can sure say it's an EPIDEMIC.
Tawk to me 'bout a sport you actually follow, silly boy.
12.10.2004
YouthConn, $ and Felons on Ice
WOW! UConn looked bad last night. In my last Hot Top 10, I asked where was the leader? Last night, he was no where to be found. UMass came out pumped, got some confidence and never got down as UConn took the lead. UConn justy looked like a team without a senior. Not scoring a point from about 4:30 remaining until under 1:00? Come on. And what the hell are they doing with the alley oops? They are getting SCHOOLED on the basics by an inferior team, they can't shoot (32%), they are getting out rebounded and they are trying alley oops? In traffic? You would think they would learn after the first two were total embarrassments, but no, they kept trying.
And the last play. Let me get this straight: you are tied, the two of the opponent's starters (including their star) are in serious foul trouble; 4 seconds left and you allow a two on one break away. I am sure Coach Calhoun was the picture of tranquility after that...
Unfortunately, Anderson and Brown are not cutting it as leaders. Boone has potential, but it comes down to Rudy Gay. If Gay can grow into a leadership role by March, UConn is in great shape. If not, they will be out by the Sweet 16.
BTW, Len Elmore is fast becoming my favorite color guy. He is kind of the anti-Dickie V, but damn does he get it right. Kudos to him.
***
Both Thew and I don't have enough Franklins to remember that he is on the $100 bill not the $20. But I'll take a dozen Wilsons and be happy.* Sports is clearly vying for your entertainment dollar and they know it. The fact is, there is so much of it that to distinguish yourself from the mass of sports entertainment you look for that extra. The NBA, NHL and MLS have it tough for a simple structural reason. These are games of constant movement and of infinite play sets. Take the MLS, a true soccer fan, knows that a 0-0 tie can be just as exciting and fun to watch as a 5-4 "slugfest." And no, increasing the scoring (say by eliminating offsides) would not help soccer.
Take the NBA, same team and flow principle as soccer, but high scoring. It really has not helped.Of course, tThe NBA suffers from a personnel issue. There are too many a**hole players getting too much attention. At five starters on a team versus a starting 14 for baseball (8 fielders, 4 pitchers, 2 relievers) and 22+ for football the spotlight will always be intense on the NBA players, who (you would think) have an added responsibility to behave. Who is the last "positive" NBA player you remember?
Hockey has another problem. (WARNING: that scream you are about to hear is from Thew.) Where the NBA can have spectacular dunks and alley oops to showboat, hockey needs the "fight." Go to a hockey game, the loudest (by far) the crowd gets is when a couple of players drop the gloves. I hear Thew saying "it has always been part of the game." Maybe, but it is encouraged by the league, players are sought as "enforcers," and we are now seeing sticks being used instead of fists. (Oh, for sure, there are the tearful regrets afterwards...if only they were sincere.)
I don't buy the "contact sport" crap either. There is no more of a contact sport than football and those guys can keep their cool. Checking is part of the game, hard checking is a better part of the game, if you can't deal with it - PLAY GOLF. (You could make an argument that the temperament of a 300 lb black man from Louisiana is much calmer that a 210 lb white guy from northern Minnesota, but I'd accuse you of stereotyping.) The fact is that thuggery is an encouraged part of hockey. And it has become necessary for the sport to survive...
*Woodrow Wilson was on the $100,000 gold certificate. It was never in general circulation, but was used for interbank transactions. Samuel Chase was on the largest general circulation bill, the $10,000. I'll take "Coins and Currency" for $1000, Alex.
And the last play. Let me get this straight: you are tied, the two of the opponent's starters (including their star) are in serious foul trouble; 4 seconds left and you allow a two on one break away. I am sure Coach Calhoun was the picture of tranquility after that...
Unfortunately, Anderson and Brown are not cutting it as leaders. Boone has potential, but it comes down to Rudy Gay. If Gay can grow into a leadership role by March, UConn is in great shape. If not, they will be out by the Sweet 16.
BTW, Len Elmore is fast becoming my favorite color guy. He is kind of the anti-Dickie V, but damn does he get it right. Kudos to him.
***
Both Thew and I don't have enough Franklins to remember that he is on the $100 bill not the $20. But I'll take a dozen Wilsons and be happy.* Sports is clearly vying for your entertainment dollar and they know it. The fact is, there is so much of it that to distinguish yourself from the mass of sports entertainment you look for that extra. The NBA, NHL and MLS have it tough for a simple structural reason. These are games of constant movement and of infinite play sets. Take the MLS, a true soccer fan, knows that a 0-0 tie can be just as exciting and fun to watch as a 5-4 "slugfest." And no, increasing the scoring (say by eliminating offsides) would not help soccer.
Take the NBA, same team and flow principle as soccer, but high scoring. It really has not helped.Of course, tThe NBA suffers from a personnel issue. There are too many a**hole players getting too much attention. At five starters on a team versus a starting 14 for baseball (8 fielders, 4 pitchers, 2 relievers) and 22+ for football the spotlight will always be intense on the NBA players, who (you would think) have an added responsibility to behave. Who is the last "positive" NBA player you remember?
Hockey has another problem. (WARNING: that scream you are about to hear is from Thew.) Where the NBA can have spectacular dunks and alley oops to showboat, hockey needs the "fight." Go to a hockey game, the loudest (by far) the crowd gets is when a couple of players drop the gloves. I hear Thew saying "it has always been part of the game." Maybe, but it is encouraged by the league, players are sought as "enforcers," and we are now seeing sticks being used instead of fists. (Oh, for sure, there are the tearful regrets afterwards...if only they were sincere.)
I don't buy the "contact sport" crap either. There is no more of a contact sport than football and those guys can keep their cool. Checking is part of the game, hard checking is a better part of the game, if you can't deal with it - PLAY GOLF. (You could make an argument that the temperament of a 300 lb black man from Louisiana is much calmer that a 210 lb white guy from northern Minnesota, but I'd accuse you of stereotyping.) The fact is that thuggery is an encouraged part of hockey. And it has become necessary for the sport to survive...
*Woodrow Wilson was on the $100,000 gold certificate. It was never in general circulation, but was used for interbank transactions. Samuel Chase was on the largest general circulation bill, the $10,000. I'll take "Coins and Currency" for $1000, Alex.
12.09.2004
Vacation Musings
Welp, I'm on vacation. And as much as I'd like to completely ignore the drivelings that are Tilam's opinions, well, they draw me back like a moth to flame...
Are you KIDDING me? You really think it's about atheletic performance anymore, albeit a NATURAL performance? Nope. It's about the benjamins. No, not BF and his character, it's about his pic on the lettuce, the salad, the almighty $20. I honestly think that in sports, we are hearing the "pinnacle" of natural human performance - how much lower can we move the 100m record, how much higher can we high jump, how many home runs can we hit, etc. The human physiognomy (sp?) is just that it does have limits, and we are very close to the natural limits of human abilities. So, we turn to unnatural improvements. And the fans (and the QUON baby) come in droves. As so many of the records in sports become firmly entrenched, the owners (and players) fear that their product is becoming less interesting and appealling to the fan base because "nothing is a instantly exciting as a home run" to baseball fans, for instance, and so they "tolerate" performance enhancing drugs (the MLB steroid policy is a joke) to ensure fans and revenue.
You think that people play to see small ball, like the Twins play? Even though it's fundamental baseball at it's best? Nope, they pay cash to see Bonds jack one into McCovey Cove.
You want fundamental basketball? Watch the WNBA, they play it purely. Take a trip overseas, watch them play in Europe. But instead, we flock in droves to arenas to see overpaid punks jump high and dunk (Shaq?) and no-look passes (half of which are really fakes) and bricks thrown up by jump shooters (okay, not you Ray Allen and Rip Hamilton).
Ben Johnson turned to steroids to beat Carl Lewis, because he knew that his natural ability wasn't good enough. And even though he's a moron, his quote rings true "The American way wants to see those players do great, hit home runs, and the fans will pay the money to go and see them. It's a business". Hehe, didn't I just say that?
Barry Bonds was an MVP before steroids, now he's gonna be home run champ. Damm right they are going to do what they can to protect him (and fan interest and gate receipts for baseball).
As for Pete Rose, let him in the HoF already. Ty Cobb was a rampant racist. Babe Ruth was a hard partier, and who knows what substances they thought were fun back then? Is he an idiot? Sure. Is he sorry? Not sure, because he's all contrite now that he wants back in baseball and the HoF. But you CANNOT impugne his performance on the field, and he was a great player. I think he's twisted in the wind enough, put him on the ballot.
The Nike Frank ads are the BOMB ("best contact you've had all year Duval!") You know, for a guy who seemed so concerned with his history and legacy to golf, he sure has had a letdown; we do agree that he needs to get back to the Sunday Tiger whose ass I whipped at Tiger Woods 2004, and whose ass I'm gunning for in 2005. That Tiger had it all, and when on and focused, could summon the golf gods to his side. I believe he's going to win a Major again this year as well, but I think it's going to be the Open. In any event, he'll finish top 10 in all 4 Majors IMHO.
We have 2 readers. 3 if you count Opa, but only if he can drag his eyes away from CNNfn and MSN instant messenger. And I still raise an eyebrow, since you never told me you got paid to play semi-pro soccer while in Chicago. I would have thought that this would be a big and exciting thing to a soccer playing family, yet it strangely went by the news wayside. Quite frankly, judging from the parties you told me about, I'm highly skeptical you had time to play in between beer, wimmen, and hangovers. And plugging up the drain in the shower with your buttcheek, but hey, that's a blog for another time!
I must not pay attention to the news, because Pat Tillman's death at the hands of friendly fire was a surprise to me.
So the NHL has accepts the PA's invitation to chat. BFD. If you look at the ESPN poll, 72% of fans STILL think there is going to be no hockey this year. And frankly, I'm THIS close to calling my local team and demanding my season ticket money back. Think: big screen TV.
More Notre Dame stuff. This from the President; "I'm a good soldier and in times of transition, people can disagree," The Sports Business Daily quoted Rev. Edward Malloy as saying at a sports conference in New York. "I don't think there is a lack of goodwill or that anybody else is to be blamed for a racist decision or anything else. I just think there was a lot of pressure in the works." WTF? Did I read that right? Please, TILAM, tell me I'm wrong...did he just say that Willingham's firing was a racist decision?!?! "...anyone else is to be blamed for a racist decision..." OMG, please tell me I missed sumpthin...
Some KUDOs and FAREWELLS, et al:
Vivian Stringer, Rutger's Hoops coach, on her 700th win. In outstanding company, including Pat Summit, Jody Conradt, John Wooden, etc, and top notch college coaches, men's or women's.
Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, Joy Fawcett...I cannot say "we hardly knew ye", because you ladies were at the forefront of the US women's soccer explosion. You sacrificed, you bled, you won, and most of all, you captured the hearts of so many young women (including my daughter), many of whom were on the field in your last game. I cannot bow deep enough to your greatness.
Deanna Fav-ruh, Thew wishes you health and many years to come after what will hopefully be a successful battle with breast cancer.
Are you KIDDING me? You really think it's about atheletic performance anymore, albeit a NATURAL performance? Nope. It's about the benjamins. No, not BF and his character, it's about his pic on the lettuce, the salad, the almighty $20. I honestly think that in sports, we are hearing the "pinnacle" of natural human performance - how much lower can we move the 100m record, how much higher can we high jump, how many home runs can we hit, etc. The human physiognomy (sp?) is just that it does have limits, and we are very close to the natural limits of human abilities. So, we turn to unnatural improvements. And the fans (and the QUON baby) come in droves. As so many of the records in sports become firmly entrenched, the owners (and players) fear that their product is becoming less interesting and appealling to the fan base because "nothing is a instantly exciting as a home run" to baseball fans, for instance, and so they "tolerate" performance enhancing drugs (the MLB steroid policy is a joke) to ensure fans and revenue.
You think that people play to see small ball, like the Twins play? Even though it's fundamental baseball at it's best? Nope, they pay cash to see Bonds jack one into McCovey Cove.
You want fundamental basketball? Watch the WNBA, they play it purely. Take a trip overseas, watch them play in Europe. But instead, we flock in droves to arenas to see overpaid punks jump high and dunk (Shaq?) and no-look passes (half of which are really fakes) and bricks thrown up by jump shooters (okay, not you Ray Allen and Rip Hamilton).
Ben Johnson turned to steroids to beat Carl Lewis, because he knew that his natural ability wasn't good enough. And even though he's a moron, his quote rings true "The American way wants to see those players do great, hit home runs, and the fans will pay the money to go and see them. It's a business". Hehe, didn't I just say that?
Barry Bonds was an MVP before steroids, now he's gonna be home run champ. Damm right they are going to do what they can to protect him (and fan interest and gate receipts for baseball).
As for Pete Rose, let him in the HoF already. Ty Cobb was a rampant racist. Babe Ruth was a hard partier, and who knows what substances they thought were fun back then? Is he an idiot? Sure. Is he sorry? Not sure, because he's all contrite now that he wants back in baseball and the HoF. But you CANNOT impugne his performance on the field, and he was a great player. I think he's twisted in the wind enough, put him on the ballot.
The Nike Frank ads are the BOMB ("best contact you've had all year Duval!") You know, for a guy who seemed so concerned with his history and legacy to golf, he sure has had a letdown; we do agree that he needs to get back to the Sunday Tiger whose ass I whipped at Tiger Woods 2004, and whose ass I'm gunning for in 2005. That Tiger had it all, and when on and focused, could summon the golf gods to his side. I believe he's going to win a Major again this year as well, but I think it's going to be the Open. In any event, he'll finish top 10 in all 4 Majors IMHO.
We have 2 readers. 3 if you count Opa, but only if he can drag his eyes away from CNNfn and MSN instant messenger. And I still raise an eyebrow, since you never told me you got paid to play semi-pro soccer while in Chicago. I would have thought that this would be a big and exciting thing to a soccer playing family, yet it strangely went by the news wayside. Quite frankly, judging from the parties you told me about, I'm highly skeptical you had time to play in between beer, wimmen, and hangovers. And plugging up the drain in the shower with your buttcheek, but hey, that's a blog for another time!
I must not pay attention to the news, because Pat Tillman's death at the hands of friendly fire was a surprise to me.
So the NHL has accepts the PA's invitation to chat. BFD. If you look at the ESPN poll, 72% of fans STILL think there is going to be no hockey this year. And frankly, I'm THIS close to calling my local team and demanding my season ticket money back. Think: big screen TV.
More Notre Dame stuff. This from the President; "I'm a good soldier and in times of transition, people can disagree," The Sports Business Daily quoted Rev. Edward Malloy as saying at a sports conference in New York. "I don't think there is a lack of goodwill or that anybody else is to be blamed for a racist decision or anything else. I just think there was a lot of pressure in the works." WTF? Did I read that right? Please, TILAM, tell me I'm wrong...did he just say that Willingham's firing was a racist decision?!?! "...anyone else is to be blamed for a racist decision..." OMG, please tell me I missed sumpthin...
Some KUDOs and FAREWELLS, et al:
Vivian Stringer, Rutger's Hoops coach, on her 700th win. In outstanding company, including Pat Summit, Jody Conradt, John Wooden, etc, and top notch college coaches, men's or women's.
Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, Joy Fawcett...I cannot say "we hardly knew ye", because you ladies were at the forefront of the US women's soccer explosion. You sacrificed, you bled, you won, and most of all, you captured the hearts of so many young women (including my daughter), many of whom were on the field in your last game. I cannot bow deep enough to your greatness.
Deanna Fav-ruh, Thew wishes you health and many years to come after what will hopefully be a successful battle with breast cancer.
12.08.2004
Chemistry & Character
Today, George Will has an excellent commentary on the steroid "scandal" is dead on. I don't always agree with Will's politics, but no can argue against the elegance of his prose and his love of The Game. Money quote:
"Athletes chemically propelled to victory do not merely overvalue winning, they misunderstand why winning is properly valued. Professional athletes stand at an apex of achievement because they have paid a price in disciplined exertion -- a manifestation of good character. They should try to perform unusually well. But not unnaturally well. Drugs that make sport exotic drain it of its exemplary power by making it a display of chemistry rather than character -- actually, a display of chemistry and bad character."
Like vaseline on the cap and corked bats, steroid use is cheating. Where are the pundits who crucified Pete Rose for betting on baseball? Should Bonds, Giambi, Sheffield, et al be banned for life? It is hard for me to see a difference between Pete Rose and the 'Roid Boys.
Of course, it won't happen. Pete Rose did not have a players' union at his side. He had set his record already, his impact on the game, if not recognized by the HoF, will still be remembered by any fan of baseball. Bonds, with 703 home runs, is too close to the record to throw the book at him. The symbol that Bud Selig cares about is not the "*", but the "$." Make no mistake, the countdown to 755 will be a big money maker for the sports machine. (And, with eBay, some lucky fans who can snag the right home run balls.)
George Will is right, baseball is about character and that character is Benjamin Franklin. The more of that character you get, the better.
"Athletes chemically propelled to victory do not merely overvalue winning, they misunderstand why winning is properly valued. Professional athletes stand at an apex of achievement because they have paid a price in disciplined exertion -- a manifestation of good character. They should try to perform unusually well. But not unnaturally well. Drugs that make sport exotic drain it of its exemplary power by making it a display of chemistry rather than character -- actually, a display of chemistry and bad character."
Like vaseline on the cap and corked bats, steroid use is cheating. Where are the pundits who crucified Pete Rose for betting on baseball? Should Bonds, Giambi, Sheffield, et al be banned for life? It is hard for me to see a difference between Pete Rose and the 'Roid Boys.
Of course, it won't happen. Pete Rose did not have a players' union at his side. He had set his record already, his impact on the game, if not recognized by the HoF, will still be remembered by any fan of baseball. Bonds, with 703 home runs, is too close to the record to throw the book at him. The symbol that Bud Selig cares about is not the "*", but the "$." Make no mistake, the countdown to 755 will be a big money maker for the sports machine. (And, with eBay, some lucky fans who can snag the right home run balls.)
George Will is right, baseball is about character and that character is Benjamin Franklin. The more of that character you get, the better.
Some More Thoughts
Focusing on the diss by Thew, I failed to get to a couple of points.
Vijay is clearly the POY in golf. Truth is, he was POY last year, but didn't win. And you can pretty much call the POY for 2005 now. The pool is small: Vijay, Tiger, Ernie, Phil and Retief. And Michelson and Goosen are long shots. I like Els, but I don't see that he has the stuff in him to overtake Singh and Woods.
I think 2005 is a critical year for Tiger. Not in the sense of winning/losing majors, but in the sense of getting back into the game. It seems to me (see posts below) that Tiger has been focusing on other things (Elle, mechanics, Nike ads (gotta love Frank though)). And for the past few years he could coast; play a few events for big $$$; do well in the Majors and major tournaments, but I did not get the sense that he WANTED it anymore. He had the mini-Slam (call it the Slim) and was pretty assured of his place in history. But he seemed to lose the drive, no pun intended.
Reports are that he has found his swing again under Hank Haney's direction. He won in Japan (big whoop), but confidence is what counts. 2005 is about confidence for Tiger. Vijay showed him up. That can't sit well. But how he responds this year will determine how he does in the next five years. My prediction: Tiger will take either the U.S. Open (at Pinehurst) or the PGA Championship (at Baltusrol). Of the two, I say the Open.
As for Michelle Wie, don't expect to hear from her for a while. She certainly has the talent, but read any interview with her and it is painfully obvious that she is still a young girl. And it will take a while for her to consistently beat the talent on the LPGA tour. (Forget the PGA tour.) BTW, I have no problem with an "open" format on the PGA tour - women should be allowed to compete if they are talented enough. I think that siphoning off the top tier of the LPGA would doom that tour, but if taking 25th place in a "men's" event is a better bet then 3rd in the women's event, so be it.
Work calls, gotta jet.
Vijay is clearly the POY in golf. Truth is, he was POY last year, but didn't win. And you can pretty much call the POY for 2005 now. The pool is small: Vijay, Tiger, Ernie, Phil and Retief. And Michelson and Goosen are long shots. I like Els, but I don't see that he has the stuff in him to overtake Singh and Woods.
I think 2005 is a critical year for Tiger. Not in the sense of winning/losing majors, but in the sense of getting back into the game. It seems to me (see posts below) that Tiger has been focusing on other things (Elle, mechanics, Nike ads (gotta love Frank though)). And for the past few years he could coast; play a few events for big $$$; do well in the Majors and major tournaments, but I did not get the sense that he WANTED it anymore. He had the mini-Slam (call it the Slim) and was pretty assured of his place in history. But he seemed to lose the drive, no pun intended.
Reports are that he has found his swing again under Hank Haney's direction. He won in Japan (big whoop), but confidence is what counts. 2005 is about confidence for Tiger. Vijay showed him up. That can't sit well. But how he responds this year will determine how he does in the next five years. My prediction: Tiger will take either the U.S. Open (at Pinehurst) or the PGA Championship (at Baltusrol). Of the two, I say the Open.
As for Michelle Wie, don't expect to hear from her for a while. She certainly has the talent, but read any interview with her and it is painfully obvious that she is still a young girl. And it will take a while for her to consistently beat the talent on the LPGA tour. (Forget the PGA tour.) BTW, I have no problem with an "open" format on the PGA tour - women should be allowed to compete if they are talented enough. I think that siphoning off the top tier of the LPGA would doom that tour, but if taking 25th place in a "men's" event is a better bet then 3rd in the women's event, so be it.
Work calls, gotta jet.
12.07.2004
Don't Know Jack
Stay tuned? I doubt we have one reader interested. (I doubt we have one reader.) The answer: Soccer. In Chicago. You think I make this shit up? What other explanation is necessary? I suspect this will not make the PTI radar screen. (BTW, when else could it be?)
What's the point about Pat Tillman? It has been generally known for months that he was killed by friendly fire. What is new? The details? There are certainly not pretty, but did anyone expect they were? The guy was a hero in the exact same way that each of the members of the armed services is: they put themselves at risk to pay the ultimate price to make us safer. God rest his soul and all the souls of the brave servicemen and women who have died in the service of our country and its ideals.
It does put sports in perspective. Listening Spree?
Q-school is absolutely heart wrenching, but so is any open tryout for pro sports. Yes, KG is a jerk. Every pro golfer knows his score on any given hole. It is his BUSINESS to know. Blame the caddy. The caddy screwed up right until the time you signed the card. I contrast this with the extra club in Ian Woosnan's (?) bag a few years ago. THAT was the caddy's fault.
Does Tim O'Neal's wife understand that it is her JOB to help relieve the pressure from her husband, not increase it. It is definitely their next 12 months, not just his. But she makes it more likely that he will fail next time around.
What's the point about Pat Tillman? It has been generally known for months that he was killed by friendly fire. What is new? The details? There are certainly not pretty, but did anyone expect they were? The guy was a hero in the exact same way that each of the members of the armed services is: they put themselves at risk to pay the ultimate price to make us safer. God rest his soul and all the souls of the brave servicemen and women who have died in the service of our country and its ideals.
It does put sports in perspective. Listening Spree?
Q-school is absolutely heart wrenching, but so is any open tryout for pro sports. Yes, KG is a jerk. Every pro golfer knows his score on any given hole. It is his BUSINESS to know. Blame the caddy. The caddy screwed up right until the time you signed the card. I contrast this with the extra club in Ian Woosnan's (?) bag a few years ago. THAT was the caddy's fault.
Does Tim O'Neal's wife understand that it is her JOB to help relieve the pressure from her husband, not increase it. It is definitely their next 12 months, not just his. But she makes it more likely that he will fail next time around.
12.06.2004
Let the Flaming Begin...
Semi-pro ball? What semi-pro ball? Thew has known Tilam for many moons, and doesn't remember an instance of semi-pro ball...
Hoops? Nope, no J and you ain't got hops.
Baseball? umm, nope.
Football? ditto.
Hockey? Closest you get to ice is in your scotch.
Golf? BAH, u constantly are beggin Thew for strokes, and breakin par at putt-putt don't make it in the bigs.
Soccer? Only possibility I would think. But beyond our days as the champions of the rec league in South Windsor, you gotta educate me.
Tennis? ROFL
Unless you are rounding UP and counting the money you won from the old men golf tournaments you used to play with the old men lo these many moons ago.
I'm still holding back my top 10, since it's before Christmas...
Vijay SHOULD be PoY, even though I don't like him.
By the by, has anyone heard anything about Michelle Wie lately?
Denny Neagle, YER AN IDIOT!
Come to think of it, I'm a little surprised that Vanessa Bryant is still married...
Wow, some harsh new revelations regarding the death of Pat Tillman. How do you think this might change the public's perception of this "hero"? He gave up MILLIONS to fight for his country against terrorism, which surely defines him as a cut above the rest. But for all the hoopla surrounding his supposed death fighting the enemy, do you think anything should change if, in fact, he WAS cut down by friendly fire? Wow, the army is going to TILAM on this one...
PGA Q-School
I STILL don't like Ken Green. Even though he's from near my hometown in CT, he's still an arrogant jerk. He shot a 78, signed for a 76, and got DQ'd. His response? "I had my caddie keeping score and I didn't double check it. If it would have meant something, I would have been paying closer attention. But it didn't." What an ass. Playing without passion, it's NO WONDER you still suck and haven't sniffed the regular PGA tour in years. It's a shame that talent is wasted on moron head-cases like this guy.
I feel bad for Tim O'Neal, but he's getting battle tested. He didn't make it again, this time by one stroke. But he's working his game well, and I root for him to become eligible for the big tour after next year. But I gotta tell ya, his wife scares me. She sure sounds like the hovering, micromanaging, "you gotta win this for US" wife you hear about. Of course, that might be the pressure talking, but her comment "It's not his next 12 months, it's ours." shows me that she's just not very sympathetic to the pressure I am SURE he already feels...
That's enuf for now, stay tuned for TILAM's explanation of his "semi-pro" days.
Hoops? Nope, no J and you ain't got hops.
Baseball? umm, nope.
Football? ditto.
Hockey? Closest you get to ice is in your scotch.
Golf? BAH, u constantly are beggin Thew for strokes, and breakin par at putt-putt don't make it in the bigs.
Soccer? Only possibility I would think. But beyond our days as the champions of the rec league in South Windsor, you gotta educate me.
Tennis? ROFL
Unless you are rounding UP and counting the money you won from the old men golf tournaments you used to play with the old men lo these many moons ago.
I'm still holding back my top 10, since it's before Christmas...
Vijay SHOULD be PoY, even though I don't like him.
By the by, has anyone heard anything about Michelle Wie lately?
Denny Neagle, YER AN IDIOT!
Come to think of it, I'm a little surprised that Vanessa Bryant is still married...
Wow, some harsh new revelations regarding the death of Pat Tillman. How do you think this might change the public's perception of this "hero"? He gave up MILLIONS to fight for his country against terrorism, which surely defines him as a cut above the rest. But for all the hoopla surrounding his supposed death fighting the enemy, do you think anything should change if, in fact, he WAS cut down by friendly fire? Wow, the army is going to TILAM on this one...
PGA Q-School
I STILL don't like Ken Green. Even though he's from near my hometown in CT, he's still an arrogant jerk. He shot a 78, signed for a 76, and got DQ'd. His response? "I had my caddie keeping score and I didn't double check it. If it would have meant something, I would have been paying closer attention. But it didn't." What an ass. Playing without passion, it's NO WONDER you still suck and haven't sniffed the regular PGA tour in years. It's a shame that talent is wasted on moron head-cases like this guy.
I feel bad for Tim O'Neal, but he's getting battle tested. He didn't make it again, this time by one stroke. But he's working his game well, and I root for him to become eligible for the big tour after next year. But I gotta tell ya, his wife scares me. She sure sounds like the hovering, micromanaging, "you gotta win this for US" wife you hear about. Of course, that might be the pressure talking, but her comment "It's not his next 12 months, it's ours." shows me that she's just not very sympathetic to the pressure I am SURE he already feels...
That's enuf for now, stay tuned for TILAM's explanation of his "semi-pro" days.
Hot Top 10
Okay, here comes the kiss of death:
1. GT - name a hotter team...
2. Oklahoma State - 52 points over the Cougars?
3. Illinois - a 12 point "letdown" in Little Rock?
4. Syracuse - Illini win by 11 and 'Cuse is #3.
5. Kansas - But the games are too close.
6. UConn - IU a character win for the young team, but where's the leader?
7. GW - Would they lose by 20 to Wake now?
8. Wake - Illinois game a fluke, until the next one.
9. UNC - Nice win under any circumstances.
10. N.C. State - Under the radar in the ACC. Calling Dickie V.
10 1/2. Arizona - Not a Hot Top 10, but kudos for beating Mississippi State.
I promise Duke will make next weeks' poll....
1. GT - name a hotter team...
2. Oklahoma State - 52 points over the Cougars?
3. Illinois - a 12 point "letdown" in Little Rock?
4. Syracuse - Illini win by 11 and 'Cuse is #3.
5. Kansas - But the games are too close.
6. UConn - IU a character win for the young team, but where's the leader?
7. GW - Would they lose by 20 to Wake now?
8. Wake - Illinois game a fluke, until the next one.
9. UNC - Nice win under any circumstances.
10. N.C. State - Under the radar in the ACC. Calling Dickie V.
10 1/2. Arizona - Not a Hot Top 10, but kudos for beating Mississippi State.
I promise Duke will make next weeks' poll....
Monday Morning Quarterbacking
I'll take credit for the GW scariness, afterall, I did have State and MD in my Hot Top 10. A deep run by GW would not be a surprise. But I also do not like to judge the gamers in the early part of the year. Would Michigan State and MD react the same way in March? That is why I respect the UNCs and Indianas for scheduling tough in the early part of the year. It is a delicate balance.
The UConn-Indiana game was a good game. After starting cold, both teams put in a good showing. UConn SHOULD have won by >10 at home against IU and the Hoosiers SHOULD have taken the game. Who benefits? Indiana certainly knows it can play with the top teams, but will the disappointment of the loss and the way they lost sow the seeds of doubt? UConn needs to wonder why it did not dominate the game more. They should be worried about a small line-up, but they have to like the character their young players showed.
Coaches Calhoun and Davis know how to accent the positive psychological aspects while focusing on the tactical deficiencies. This is a game that will benefit both teams with a W in February and March.
I am not convinced Steelers have the staying power. Sure, Ben Rotheomygodicantspellhisname showed poise, but we will see. My prediction, 2-2 over the last four games. (Of course, I still have doubts about Tom Brady also...)
Are the Colts padding Peyton's stats? Sure. Wouldn't you? It takes so much to get close now a days, I can't blame them and I would do the same. Be a part of history. I am all for it. (Of course, I do feel bad for Marino, who, if memory serves, won exactly 0 Super Bowls.)
As for youth sports, I just can't say that surprises me. It's the parents, we all know who they are. And yes, it is vicarious living. Here's the profile: mildly successful ex-athlete, who never hit it big, but got "oh so close."
But not close enough. Get REALLY close and the scales will fall from your eyes. As someone with experience in semi-pro ball (for one season), I can tell you that it is not truly fun. I was lucky to be the "semi-" part of semi-pro which a good education to fall back on and no delusions of becoming a top player. There were a lot of guys who did not have other options. They fell into two categories: the two guys who loved the game (and would play no matter what), and the remainder for whom the game lost all meaning.
The UConn-Indiana game was a good game. After starting cold, both teams put in a good showing. UConn SHOULD have won by >10 at home against IU and the Hoosiers SHOULD have taken the game. Who benefits? Indiana certainly knows it can play with the top teams, but will the disappointment of the loss and the way they lost sow the seeds of doubt? UConn needs to wonder why it did not dominate the game more. They should be worried about a small line-up, but they have to like the character their young players showed.
Coaches Calhoun and Davis know how to accent the positive psychological aspects while focusing on the tactical deficiencies. This is a game that will benefit both teams with a W in February and March.
I am not convinced Steelers have the staying power. Sure, Ben Rotheomygodicantspellhisname showed poise, but we will see. My prediction, 2-2 over the last four games. (Of course, I still have doubts about Tom Brady also...)
Are the Colts padding Peyton's stats? Sure. Wouldn't you? It takes so much to get close now a days, I can't blame them and I would do the same. Be a part of history. I am all for it. (Of course, I do feel bad for Marino, who, if memory serves, won exactly 0 Super Bowls.)
As for youth sports, I just can't say that surprises me. It's the parents, we all know who they are. And yes, it is vicarious living. Here's the profile: mildly successful ex-athlete, who never hit it big, but got "oh so close."
But not close enough. Get REALLY close and the scales will fall from your eyes. As someone with experience in semi-pro ball (for one season), I can tell you that it is not truly fun. I was lucky to be the "semi-" part of semi-pro which a good education to fall back on and no delusions of becoming a top player. There were a lot of guys who did not have other options. They fell into two categories: the two guys who loved the game (and would play no matter what), and the remainder for whom the game lost all meaning.
Random Thoughts on 2 Hours Sleep
George Washington is scary again. Back in the days of Mike Jarvis, they were a perennial heart attack for opposing coaches, always lurking around, always making you sweat. After wins against Michigan State and now Maryland, they're baaaaack! Be afraid, be very afraid.
David Boston, on steroids? HAW HAW HAW...anyone who saw the SI article on this guy HAD to suspect that he was on the juice - I read that article LAST YEAR. Yet another NON-surprise for the all-time cynic, Thew.
The win against the Jags yesterday by the Steelers shows what a contender this team is. Good teams don't just win big, they win little. Ben pulled an Elway and drove 'em down for the winning FG with :18 on the clock. Poise. Execution. Score one for Big Ben.
Question: Do you think that Peyton Manning and the Colts are calling for 8 yard touchdown passes deep in the red zone to maybe pad his passing TD numbers? Boy, wouldn't it be a good validation and a feather in his cap to hold the single season TD record? Maybe to ease the pain of NEVER WINNING A SUPER BOWL?! Oh, sorry, that was cold...but nothing eases the pain of never winning the big one like breaking the record of a legend.
NBA news...oh, sorry, who gives a hoot?
Am I the only one in America that is sick of seeing the anorexic, spoiled, self-centered, ugly, little rich broad, Paris Hilton? Except in home video's of course...
Things that make you go "Hmmm"...
While attending my daughter's hoops tournament this past weekend, her team ran into a juggernaut of a select try-out big time all-star team. After getting behind 16-4 after the first period, her team eventually lost an exciting game 46-40. Yes, they outscored the juggernaut over the last 3 periods - scared them so much that the coach was howling at the refs (picking up a "T"), his kids were bickering at each other, you name it. But here's the rub - a father of another team in the tourney mentioned to me while chatting that this team, IF your daughter made the squad after try-outs, required a $1500 fee for the year, then $250 a month. For an EIGHTH GRADE TEAM! MOG!!! Not only that, a nice young 8th grade player in the other bracket was sociable, and mentioned to me that she has a cardio/weights trainer AND a hoops trainer. In EIGHTH GRADE?! Okay, maybe they were better players than my daughter, who is playing in the top level travelling team league, but man, what is up with these teams and these parents? Buncha failed or non-athletes grown fat and bald in their middle age living vicariously through their children...pathetic people.
Long weekend, I'm sleepy...
David Boston, on steroids? HAW HAW HAW...anyone who saw the SI article on this guy HAD to suspect that he was on the juice - I read that article LAST YEAR. Yet another NON-surprise for the all-time cynic, Thew.
The win against the Jags yesterday by the Steelers shows what a contender this team is. Good teams don't just win big, they win little. Ben pulled an Elway and drove 'em down for the winning FG with :18 on the clock. Poise. Execution. Score one for Big Ben.
Question: Do you think that Peyton Manning and the Colts are calling for 8 yard touchdown passes deep in the red zone to maybe pad his passing TD numbers? Boy, wouldn't it be a good validation and a feather in his cap to hold the single season TD record? Maybe to ease the pain of NEVER WINNING A SUPER BOWL?! Oh, sorry, that was cold...but nothing eases the pain of never winning the big one like breaking the record of a legend.
NBA news...oh, sorry, who gives a hoot?
Am I the only one in America that is sick of seeing the anorexic, spoiled, self-centered, ugly, little rich broad, Paris Hilton? Except in home video's of course...
Things that make you go "Hmmm"...
While attending my daughter's hoops tournament this past weekend, her team ran into a juggernaut of a select try-out big time all-star team. After getting behind 16-4 after the first period, her team eventually lost an exciting game 46-40. Yes, they outscored the juggernaut over the last 3 periods - scared them so much that the coach was howling at the refs (picking up a "T"), his kids were bickering at each other, you name it. But here's the rub - a father of another team in the tourney mentioned to me while chatting that this team, IF your daughter made the squad after try-outs, required a $1500 fee for the year, then $250 a month. For an EIGHTH GRADE TEAM! MOG!!! Not only that, a nice young 8th grade player in the other bracket was sociable, and mentioned to me that she has a cardio/weights trainer AND a hoops trainer. In EIGHTH GRADE?! Okay, maybe they were better players than my daughter, who is playing in the top level travelling team league, but man, what is up with these teams and these parents? Buncha failed or non-athletes grown fat and bald in their middle age living vicariously through their children...pathetic people.
Long weekend, I'm sleepy...
12.03.2004
Scheduling
Thew can do all the work, all I have to do is be at the right spot to say "yes" when Anna Benson asks if I am part of the grounds crew.
Ahem. Where were we? Oh yes. Some interesting games this weekend in college hoops, highlighted by Kentucky-UNC. I think the UConn-Indiana and the Illinois-Arkansas games will also be fun with modest upset potentials. Sunday has the Mississippi State-Arizona game. Normally, I'd give this one to MS, but I really hoping Arizona plays above their potential.
I have got to say that I totally respect Roy Williams' scheduling. Iowa, USC, Indiana, Kentucky! None of these teams would be considered a cake walk when they were scheduled. Most impressive: Vermont on the 21st. Most impressive in the sense that UNC has NOTHING to gain and everything to lose by playing Vermont. Vermont is one of those D1-A teams that emerges occasionally and really gives the Top 25 fits. If Taylor Coppenrath is on, Vermont could win this. By more than 10. They lost to Kansas by 7 and (IMAO) Kansas is a much stronger team than UNC.
Regardless, hat's off the Roy Williams and UNC. This can only help come April.
BTW; call me naive, but I needed smelling salts when Giambi was outed. Who's next? Bonds? Now Santa Claus I can see. (C'mon, all those toys in ONE bag, he has got to be on something!)
Ahem. Where were we? Oh yes. Some interesting games this weekend in college hoops, highlighted by Kentucky-UNC. I think the UConn-Indiana and the Illinois-Arkansas games will also be fun with modest upset potentials. Sunday has the Mississippi State-Arizona game. Normally, I'd give this one to MS, but I really hoping Arizona plays above their potential.
I have got to say that I totally respect Roy Williams' scheduling. Iowa, USC, Indiana, Kentucky! None of these teams would be considered a cake walk when they were scheduled. Most impressive: Vermont on the 21st. Most impressive in the sense that UNC has NOTHING to gain and everything to lose by playing Vermont. Vermont is one of those D1-A teams that emerges occasionally and really gives the Top 25 fits. If Taylor Coppenrath is on, Vermont could win this. By more than 10. They lost to Kansas by 7 and (IMAO) Kansas is a much stronger team than UNC.
Regardless, hat's off the Roy Williams and UNC. This can only help come April.
BTW; call me naive, but I needed smelling salts when Giambi was outed. Who's next? Bonds? Now Santa Claus I can see. (C'mon, all those toys in ONE bag, he has got to be on something!)
12.02.2004
Dang he's making more sense
Well, i have to agree with Tilam again. There aren't many more classy, intelligent, well-spoken, and dignified coaches of ANY color in ANY college sport today. Ty handled the entire situation with grace, which is more than we saw with the PERFECT examples of a "black" coach, Nolan Richardson.
Steve Spurrier is fast rising up my "good guy" list. He turned down the Florida position with class and maturity. Here's my take on this: a) Florida did Ron Zook WRONG, and Spurrier prolly doesn't want to go back to that gator pit, b) the players all stood behind Zook, and that was a no win situation for Spurrier, and c) he didn't want to disrespect Ron Zook. Nice job Steve-o.
Tilam's right about Dickie V. His enthusiasm cannot be matched, but his shtick is getting old and annoying. However, on a good note, he does give goo analysis when he rises from his knees in front of Duke University. Although I might add that is devotion to Duke is outmatched by Ahmad Rashad's sychophantic groveling before Michael Jordan, and Stuart Scott's prostration before Shaquille O'Neal.
Today's Rantings:
Jason Giambi admitted to using steriods. WHO ISN'T SURPRISED BY THIS? I tell my friends at work "dang, I wish giambi would get back on the juice, cuz he sux when he isn't using sauce".
I officially put in a job application for groundskeeper to the New York Mets. And I sent a stripper to Kris Benson's hotel room, along with a camera for verification. And put Anna Benson's number on speed dial.
Ricky Williams. I am done with you. Head case. Pot-head case. Goodbye. Good Riddance. Million dollar talent, 5 cent head, dime-bag in his pocket.
Steve Spurrier is fast rising up my "good guy" list. He turned down the Florida position with class and maturity. Here's my take on this: a) Florida did Ron Zook WRONG, and Spurrier prolly doesn't want to go back to that gator pit, b) the players all stood behind Zook, and that was a no win situation for Spurrier, and c) he didn't want to disrespect Ron Zook. Nice job Steve-o.
Tilam's right about Dickie V. His enthusiasm cannot be matched, but his shtick is getting old and annoying. However, on a good note, he does give goo analysis when he rises from his knees in front of Duke University. Although I might add that is devotion to Duke is outmatched by Ahmad Rashad's sychophantic groveling before Michael Jordan, and Stuart Scott's prostration before Shaquille O'Neal.
Today's Rantings:
Jason Giambi admitted to using steriods. WHO ISN'T SURPRISED BY THIS? I tell my friends at work "dang, I wish giambi would get back on the juice, cuz he sux when he isn't using sauce".
I officially put in a job application for groundskeeper to the New York Mets. And I sent a stripper to Kris Benson's hotel room, along with a camera for verification. And put Anna Benson's number on speed dial.
Ricky Williams. I am done with you. Head case. Pot-head case. Goodbye. Good Riddance. Million dollar talent, 5 cent head, dime-bag in his pocket.
ACC-Big Ten
Dickie V was back to the guy I like last night calling the UNC-Indiana game. The game was less spectacular, though I will reserve some judgment until after the Indiana-UConn game Saturday.
The Wake-Illini game was an eye-opener. Wake just looked awful. I can't tell yet if it was one of those nights, the superiority of the Illini, is Wake just hype or a combo. I admit that I have a tougher time reading the tea leaves after blow-outs then in close games. On Saturday, the Illini play the Razorbacks, who are untested. (They did blow out Winthrop, who just beat Providence...) Jeff Saragin now has the Illini #2 and Arkansas #16. (This understates Arkansas and overstates Illinois due to the fact that, at this point, the start ranking impacts placement.) The news for Wake is that it was SO bad, there is nothing to do but move on.
Thew has not put up his Hot Top 10, but my list would not change much.
***
A quick note on Ty Willingham. His press conference was the epitome of class. If a major program does not get this guy soon, there is no justice. Contrast him with Nolan Richardson's exit at Arkansas a few years back.
There was alot of comment during the ESPN telecast (and in web circles) of the visible difference in the number of black coaches in college hoops versus college football. Of course, the big question is why? My guess is two fold. First, while you can look at the "universe" of NCAA 1-A, the "real" universe of the respective sports is drastically different. The fact is that college hoops universe of teams is probably 100, while the football universe is, maybe, 20. Why? Glad you asked, because it brings me to point two.
The TV exposure of programs and coaches (black and white) is so much higher in college hoops because of March Madness. Stan Heath was an outstanding coach at Kent State and made a terrific run during the 2002 NCAA Tourney, just short of the Final Four. Terrific exposure that NCAA football cannot match. When Nolan Richardson, ahem, left Arkansas, Stan was an obvious candidate and proven winner.
The point is both the opportunity for advancement among successful team (defined as team making a deep run in the Tournament or consistently making the Tournament) and the exposure you need to bring yourself to the attention of the ADs and Presidents is much greater.
There is no doubt black coaches are lagging in NCAA football, but the comparisons to NCAA basketball are apples to oranges.
The Wake-Illini game was an eye-opener. Wake just looked awful. I can't tell yet if it was one of those nights, the superiority of the Illini, is Wake just hype or a combo. I admit that I have a tougher time reading the tea leaves after blow-outs then in close games. On Saturday, the Illini play the Razorbacks, who are untested. (They did blow out Winthrop, who just beat Providence...) Jeff Saragin now has the Illini #2 and Arkansas #16. (This understates Arkansas and overstates Illinois due to the fact that, at this point, the start ranking impacts placement.) The news for Wake is that it was SO bad, there is nothing to do but move on.
Thew has not put up his Hot Top 10, but my list would not change much.
***
A quick note on Ty Willingham. His press conference was the epitome of class. If a major program does not get this guy soon, there is no justice. Contrast him with Nolan Richardson's exit at Arkansas a few years back.
There was alot of comment during the ESPN telecast (and in web circles) of the visible difference in the number of black coaches in college hoops versus college football. Of course, the big question is why? My guess is two fold. First, while you can look at the "universe" of NCAA 1-A, the "real" universe of the respective sports is drastically different. The fact is that college hoops universe of teams is probably 100, while the football universe is, maybe, 20. Why? Glad you asked, because it brings me to point two.
The TV exposure of programs and coaches (black and white) is so much higher in college hoops because of March Madness. Stan Heath was an outstanding coach at Kent State and made a terrific run during the 2002 NCAA Tourney, just short of the Final Four. Terrific exposure that NCAA football cannot match. When Nolan Richardson, ahem, left Arkansas, Stan was an obvious candidate and proven winner.
The point is both the opportunity for advancement among successful team (defined as team making a deep run in the Tournament or consistently making the Tournament) and the exposure you need to bring yourself to the attention of the ADs and Presidents is much greater.
There is no doubt black coaches are lagging in NCAA football, but the comparisons to NCAA basketball are apples to oranges.
12.01.2004
The Presses are Sto...
When Thew mentioned Lou Holtz, I cringed. The I realized that there are many a sports name that I just have a bad visceral reaction to.
Like last night during the Duke-Michigan State game. I was a huge and early Dickie V fan. He, along with John Madden, changed the way that color commentary is done. When you watch Tim McCarver, you are seeing the "classic" color man. Dickie V brought excitement and passion and the occasional insight. He was (and is) a shameless promoter of college hoops. How many broadcasts have I heard him mention 3, 4 or 5 players as THE go to guy; THE point man; THE big man. The fact that he just said, two minutes ago, that Jameer Nelson is the best point guard in the league has no effect on his current position that Chris Thomas holds that honor.
But as Duke went on a run, I could not handle it. The fact that he loves Duke is no secret, but it is getting too thick. Now, I am NOT saying he should lose the passion. I am also NOT saying he remains calm when doing other teams' games. But the difference between his commenting about Tom Izzo and the boys when Michigan State went on a 14-2 run and when Duke reciprocated was night and day. With Michigan State, Dickie V struck the right balance of passion and prose, with Duke he was psychotic.
I do not want Dickie V to calm down, I just want him banned from the ACC games for a year to get some perspective. The game was great; Reddick and Ewing lit it up; but Michigan State handed the game to Duke at the end of the first half.
Come April, I think Tom Izzo's team has a far greater chance of going deep that Coach K's.
BTW, with all due respect to Kansas, Wake, Syracuse and UConn, Georgia Tech looked REAL good. So, here is my feeling at to the Hot Top 10.
1. GT
2. Kansas
3. Syracuse
4. Illinois
5. Wake
6. Oklahoma State
7. - 10. Kentucky, UConn, Michigan State, Maryland
Like last night during the Duke-Michigan State game. I was a huge and early Dickie V fan. He, along with John Madden, changed the way that color commentary is done. When you watch Tim McCarver, you are seeing the "classic" color man. Dickie V brought excitement and passion and the occasional insight. He was (and is) a shameless promoter of college hoops. How many broadcasts have I heard him mention 3, 4 or 5 players as THE go to guy; THE point man; THE big man. The fact that he just said, two minutes ago, that Jameer Nelson is the best point guard in the league has no effect on his current position that Chris Thomas holds that honor.
But as Duke went on a run, I could not handle it. The fact that he loves Duke is no secret, but it is getting too thick. Now, I am NOT saying he should lose the passion. I am also NOT saying he remains calm when doing other teams' games. But the difference between his commenting about Tom Izzo and the boys when Michigan State went on a 14-2 run and when Duke reciprocated was night and day. With Michigan State, Dickie V struck the right balance of passion and prose, with Duke he was psychotic.
I do not want Dickie V to calm down, I just want him banned from the ACC games for a year to get some perspective. The game was great; Reddick and Ewing lit it up; but Michigan State handed the game to Duke at the end of the first half.
Come April, I think Tom Izzo's team has a far greater chance of going deep that Coach K's.
BTW, with all due respect to Kansas, Wake, Syracuse and UConn, Georgia Tech looked REAL good. So, here is my feeling at to the Hot Top 10.
1. GT
2. Kansas
3. Syracuse
4. Illinois
5. Wake
6. Oklahoma State
7. - 10. Kentucky, UConn, Michigan State, Maryland
STOP THE PRESSES!
I actually AGREE with Tilam this time. Willingham is a good coach who will continue to do a good job at a good football program. Face it, ND, ever since Lou Holtz left, you've been heading down that slippery slope. And yes, you NEED to join a major football conference, you're no longer the draw you used to be. But why do people have to say "this is a big blow to black coaches"? Why isn't it just a shock to coaches in general?
And speaking of Lou Holtz...BUH BYE! After his less than stellar stint at USC, Thew ponders the inevitable - he did so well at ND, but was it because he was able to sell ND to recruits and was able to get the top ones? Or was he a good coach? Hmmm... good luck to Steve Spurrier. USC will be a college football gorilla in 3 years.
With all due respect to Cal Ripken, Brett Fav-ruh is more if an ironman. 200 NFL starts? Unheard of. Yes, Cal start an ungodly number of games, but that was baseball. With all the pounding a player takes in football, it's a miracle that you can even start every game of a SEASON, much less 200 of 'em. So props to Brett - even though I'm a Vikings fan.
LeBron is lighting up the NBA. Is that because he's a talent? Or is it because the NBA basically doesn't play defense to any degree, a culture that's more geared to providing astounding highlights from young atheletes (notice I did not say "basketball players") rather than sound fundamental hoops. You want a highlight show, watch the NBA. You want good old fashioned hardnosed fundamental in your face basketball? Watch the WNBA.
Pedro to the Mets? It will be seen as a coup for Omar Minaya, until Pedro starts to suck...
When will Jerry Jones just cave in and trade for a QB? Hennson and the Testicle just ain't making it in Big D.
A few of the Indiana Pacers will be charged for assault and battery in the WWF fest last week in Detroit. Sure. Let's see if that sticks. And if it sticks, lets see if they actually do time. Thew is skeptical.
So Mark Cuban wants to establish a hedge fund to make bets on sporting events, and he wants this run by professional gamblers. Some people have too much free time, disposable cash, and ego. I just think he's bored. Read his blog, wherever it is. I really like what he did for the Dallas team, with all the upgrades he's put in place, but he's just an arrogant egotistical blowhard who thinks his agenda is above all others. That guy is all about exposure of any sort.
One of the TOUGHEST tests in professional sports starts today...the finals of PGA Q school. 6 rounds of golf, top 30 plus ties get in. People have fainted, puked, gotten the dreaded "stomach virus", anything you can name for nervousness, over this event. Good luck to all those people involved, Thew knows what a major obstacle you face.
THIS JUST IN: Australian Ladies Professional Golf Tour voted last week to remove the "gender clause" from its constitution, clearing the way for transsexual Mianne Bagger to play Down Under. The Ladies European Tour recently changed its regulations after Bagger earned her card. So a guy who dresses as a woman wants to play golf on the ladies' tour? *boggle*
Random musings from the random muser...
And speaking of Lou Holtz...BUH BYE! After his less than stellar stint at USC, Thew ponders the inevitable - he did so well at ND, but was it because he was able to sell ND to recruits and was able to get the top ones? Or was he a good coach? Hmmm... good luck to Steve Spurrier. USC will be a college football gorilla in 3 years.
With all due respect to Cal Ripken, Brett Fav-ruh is more if an ironman. 200 NFL starts? Unheard of. Yes, Cal start an ungodly number of games, but that was baseball. With all the pounding a player takes in football, it's a miracle that you can even start every game of a SEASON, much less 200 of 'em. So props to Brett - even though I'm a Vikings fan.
LeBron is lighting up the NBA. Is that because he's a talent? Or is it because the NBA basically doesn't play defense to any degree, a culture that's more geared to providing astounding highlights from young atheletes (notice I did not say "basketball players") rather than sound fundamental hoops. You want a highlight show, watch the NBA. You want good old fashioned hardnosed fundamental in your face basketball? Watch the WNBA.
Pedro to the Mets? It will be seen as a coup for Omar Minaya, until Pedro starts to suck...
When will Jerry Jones just cave in and trade for a QB? Hennson and the Testicle just ain't making it in Big D.
A few of the Indiana Pacers will be charged for assault and battery in the WWF fest last week in Detroit. Sure. Let's see if that sticks. And if it sticks, lets see if they actually do time. Thew is skeptical.
So Mark Cuban wants to establish a hedge fund to make bets on sporting events, and he wants this run by professional gamblers. Some people have too much free time, disposable cash, and ego. I just think he's bored. Read his blog, wherever it is. I really like what he did for the Dallas team, with all the upgrades he's put in place, but he's just an arrogant egotistical blowhard who thinks his agenda is above all others. That guy is all about exposure of any sort.
One of the TOUGHEST tests in professional sports starts today...the finals of PGA Q school. 6 rounds of golf, top 30 plus ties get in. People have fainted, puked, gotten the dreaded "stomach virus", anything you can name for nervousness, over this event. Good luck to all those people involved, Thew knows what a major obstacle you face.
THIS JUST IN: Australian Ladies Professional Golf Tour voted last week to remove the "gender clause" from its constitution, clearing the way for transsexual Mianne Bagger to play Down Under. The Ladies European Tour recently changed its regulations after Bagger earned her card. So a guy who dresses as a woman wants to play golf on the ladies' tour? *boggle*
Random musings from the random muser...
11.30.2004
Things are NG at ND
Tyrone Willingham is out. Oddly enough I was going to post about ND's woes on the gridiron and was going to wonder outloud about when he was going to get canned. An hour is the difference between being prescient and "yeah, right."
Willingham will land on his feet. He is a very good football coach who caught a program in decline. He has been there for three years (which amounts to 2 years and 360 days longer then ND's last pick), which is not long enough to be able to rely on your recruiting classes, IMAO.
Notre Dame faces a bigger problem. It has one of the most rabid fan bases in the country, think of them as one big mass of George Steinbrenners, and tremendous national appeal. But I do not think the Independent status works for them anymore. It seems that they need to hook up with the Big East or Big Ten (they could chalk up one against Northwestern). I suspect the Big East, especially, will bend over backwards to lock ND in.
I think the bigger question is the will to win on the part of the Administration. Can ND attract the scholar-athlete it needs? Or does it need to relax its standards?
Give credit, though, to the large state schools. Plain truth is that the difference, academically, between Notre Dame (or BC or Stanford or Duke or any other top private college) and
ND's problems have little to do with Tyrone Willingham. Good luck to him and I hope things turn around for Notre Dame.
Update: Urban Meyer is the odds on favorite to take over and he seems to be the easy choice. Notre Dame could do alot worse. I do not buy in to the "home grown" approach, but you could argue that Willingham had two strikes against him because of that. We will see.
No Buts
Back to politics for a second, more post-election analysis seems to talk about the need to rethink the Democrat strategy. (See kausfiles. Scroll down to “kf is Stupid III”, I have yet to figure out how to trackback Mickey.) kf makes a similar point I have been trying to make; that he does not get this talk. This was not a major blow, just a lost election. As I argued below, the Democrats do not have to give up their ideals to win the next election.
This is some of what I want to hear from a Democratic presidential candidate:
The mere mention of God does not constitute “an establishment of religion.”
I support the right of a woman to choose, but with certain limits respecting the rights of her family (spouse or guardian) and the rights of the viable, unborn child.
All citizens, regardless of sexual orientation, are equal under the law, but marriage is a sacrament to be bestowed by religious institutions and they will not be compelled to do so.
I support the right of private groups, such as the Boy Scouts, to determine the qualifications of membership and participation. Further the use of public property by private groups, so long as all private groups have similar access, does not constitute government endorsement of the group.
I believe education is the foundation of a vibrant democracy and support the ability of parents to choose which schools their children attend.
I believe the creation of laws is the sole responsibility of the elected legislature, not the responsibility of the appointed judiciary.
Can this happen?
11.29.2004
Overcome with Tryptophan
I do not think I spent an hour on the web this past (long) weekend. Tryptophan - nature's Prozac. Mmmmmm...leftovers. Short post.
NHL:
We either agree or we don't; I am not sure. The proof is in the product, it just is not selling to this sports crazed nation.
I agree with you that there are many reasons why the NHL is in this bind. I also agree that a big money deal would solve the problems. (BTW, a big money deal would solve my problems, too.) The NHL just does not have the leeway the NFL, MLB and NBA have. I am looking forward to the Beanpot this year....
As an aside, I am taking bets as to when the MLS becomes the 4th major sport...
UPDATE: Yoni Cohen notes that ESPN2's broadcast of poker championships has posted better ratings then the NHL did last year. Stick a fork in them, they are done. Thew, I know you love hockey, but those of us in the real world could not care less if we tried.
Tiger:
I should stop, marrying my beautiful wife did kill my pro sports career. (And excused my noticeable lack of talent.)
Tennis:
I can't get past the "JR is a pretty man, even *I* think he's kinda hot" remark. Well, at least I know the topic for this weeks' therapy...
Telfair:
I think the trend will be for more HS and Prep guys to go. He is going to make some good ching riding the pine. Of course, he could make some good ching at Ohio State...but I digress.
Eli Manning:
Was the fact that this kid was all hype obvious to everyone, but the Giants? He might grow into his brother, but I do not think he is destined for greatness. Further, putting in behind that AWFUL Giants front line is bound to kill his confidence. 33rd in the QB Rankings. Ugh.
Wait, how is Kerry Collins doing? Oh, nevermind.
College Hoops:
Our new best friend Yoni Cohen has a really nice blog on College Hoops, go check him out. The link is also on the left.
The ACC/Big Ten Challenge starts tonight. We shall see how the ACC stacks up on paper. Of course, I still want to bring back the ACC/Big East Challenge...
I really like the conference challenge format. How about a SEC/Big East challenge? Or better, rotate the Big East, ACC, Pac 10 (before it becomes a mid-major), Big 12, SEC and Big 10 each year. They are a three day tourney and it would be a nice lead in to the conference schedule. The pre-season tourneys are okay, but the Conference Challenges are national draws.
Just a thought. More to come.
NHL:
We either agree or we don't; I am not sure. The proof is in the product, it just is not selling to this sports crazed nation.
I agree with you that there are many reasons why the NHL is in this bind. I also agree that a big money deal would solve the problems. (BTW, a big money deal would solve my problems, too.) The NHL just does not have the leeway the NFL, MLB and NBA have. I am looking forward to the Beanpot this year....
As an aside, I am taking bets as to when the MLS becomes the 4th major sport...
UPDATE: Yoni Cohen notes that ESPN2's broadcast of poker championships has posted better ratings then the NHL did last year. Stick a fork in them, they are done. Thew, I know you love hockey, but those of us in the real world could not care less if we tried.
Tiger:
I should stop, marrying my beautiful wife did kill my pro sports career. (And excused my noticeable lack of talent.)
Tennis:
I can't get past the "JR is a pretty man, even *I* think he's kinda hot" remark. Well, at least I know the topic for this weeks' therapy...
Telfair:
I think the trend will be for more HS and Prep guys to go. He is going to make some good ching riding the pine. Of course, he could make some good ching at Ohio State...but I digress.
Eli Manning:
Was the fact that this kid was all hype obvious to everyone, but the Giants? He might grow into his brother, but I do not think he is destined for greatness. Further, putting in behind that AWFUL Giants front line is bound to kill his confidence. 33rd in the QB Rankings. Ugh.
Wait, how is Kerry Collins doing? Oh, nevermind.
College Hoops:
Our new best friend Yoni Cohen has a really nice blog on College Hoops, go check him out. The link is also on the left.
The ACC/Big Ten Challenge starts tonight. We shall see how the ACC stacks up on paper. Of course, I still want to bring back the ACC/Big East Challenge...
I really like the conference challenge format. How about a SEC/Big East challenge? Or better, rotate the Big East, ACC, Pac 10 (before it becomes a mid-major), Big 12, SEC and Big 10 each year. They are a three day tourney and it would be a nice lead in to the conference schedule. The pre-season tourneys are okay, but the Conference Challenges are national draws.
Just a thought. More to come.
Norm Abrams can KISS MY...well, u know
a) I was channel surfing while in a turkey coma, and ran across the New Yankee Workshop. Wow, he can build some GREAT stuff on that show. You know why? Because he's got a MILLION DOLLARS of woodworking equipment in his workshop. Dang, if I had all that machinery, I could build anything too! That is SO unrealistic for the average do-it-yourself Joe.
b) Let it be known that on THIS day, I officially declare the cutting, shaping, coping, and mounting of crown molding as the definition if THE SUCK! 15 hours in 2 days doing the basement. Pay someone to do it, it ain't worth the aggravation...
b) Let it be known that on THIS day, I officially declare the cutting, shaping, coping, and mounting of crown molding as the definition if THE SUCK! 15 hours in 2 days doing the basement. Pay someone to do it, it ain't worth the aggravation...
11.25.2004
In celebration of Tilam (on TURKEY day, hehe, get it?)
NHL
Again, too many teams is the argument spouted by those that think the product is too diluted and no longer exciting because of the overall "drop in skill level". The simple economics of revenues in the Canadian dollar and salaries in the US dollar is what is killing the Canadian teams. Only if you contract all the Canadian teams will THAT problem go away. Will that solve fan interest? Yep, in Canada. In the US, we simply MUST be able to generate more TV revenue. I hate to say it, but higher scoring and exciting physical play will go a long way toward more appeal.
But you will STILL have a small portion of the player base demanding a selfish labor agreement, not realizing that a) you are NOT working right now (unless you count sweeping floors at the local high school), b) your product has TERRIBLE revenues from TV, and c) you are officially alientating almost EVERYONE but your die hard fans. What worked for the Delta pilots union CAN work for the NHL, but it seems that in the best mold of selfish pampered high paid athletes, they cannot see the big picture, only what is in the mirror.
Behavior
Yep, I've been a my children's soccer game where parents were just poorly behaved. You see this all over the place.But that guy who threw the beer can CLEARLY be seen pulling Ron Artest off the wrong guy, then rabbit punching him in the head from behind - so he's a drunken coward with a criminal record. I hope he gets arrested (AGAIN!) and charged by the police dept for assault. Makes me sick to be an NBA fan - oh wait, the NBA sucks, I'm not a fan. hehe
As far as Artest (and my wife vehemently disagrees with me), I also can't fault him THAT much for responding to that sort of attack. He needs to be more in control, but he was lying down on the table avoiding any action. I just wish he had a few more seconds to beat the crud outta that guy...
Tiger
I think yes, he was unconscious during, say, 2002, but he was SO able to dial in then. Now with a hot swedish wife, and distractions off the course, and of course, Butch isn't his coach any more (BAD MOVE TIGER!), he cannot summon "Sunday Tiger". I hope he does again.
Oh, and frankly, from my married man's perspective, I'm not completely sure that Amy Mickelson isn't actually hotter than Mrs. Woods.
PHIL! HFS PHIL!! 59!!! 2005 is your breakout year bro...I predict another major!
USC/Clemson
First of all, neither of these are "premier educational institutions". hehe
Second of all, I really don't expect a full scale change of heart, but don't you think it's nice to have a little victory in this?
Tennis
Federer is the REAL DEAL, I think he might win the Slam next year.
Maria Sharapova (and her dad) prove that while you can be cute, nice, and a good tennis player, you can't get away with more idiotic behavior and a lack of class.
OMG, my 13 year old daughter has noticed Andy Roddick. He is her athelete crush, only slightly behind Johnny Resnick of the Goo Goo Dolls. Well, JR is a pretty man, even *I* think he's kinda hot.
Sebastian Telfair
Umm, I think he's riding the pine for a pro team. Not bad for an SI cover boy from a few years ago. Bye Bye, Telly, have a nice life as a scrub.
NASCAR
I think they got something good going here with the "Race for the Cup" format. Exciting, even though I'm not, by nature, a racing fan.
Music
What, no Motley Crue? No Poison? How can we NOT give credit to the hair bands of the 80's who brought us heavy metal BIMBO's. Short skirts, high heels, bustiers in public...WOW, what a great time in a man's life.
Personally, I think that Judas Priest's rendition of Johnny B. Goode was WAY better than Chuck's, but that's just me.
Stairway to Heaven at number 31? Hmm, I remember lo these many moons ago when that song always won the local radio show's poll at the #1 song of all time.
For Thew, it's easy to argue that Dylan should NOT be number 1. I'm just not a fan of him. How about "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mixalot. Talk about getting some bootays shaking.
This Thanksgiving's List of IDIOTS!
Michael Phelps - a DUI? at what, 19?! Did you think you would be the first athelete to drink and drive and get away with it? YOU IDIOT!
Kobe Bryant - do I even need to 'splain Lucy?
Latrell Sprewell - Spree, say it ain't so! You were such a great addition to the T'Wolves, now you're completely pissing off your teammates by saying "why should I do anything to help this team, they ain't giving me an extension and I'm trying to feed my family". On FOURTEEN MILLION a YEAR! YOU IDIOT!
SI.COM - ENOUGH with the damm AOL/TimeWarner popup ads. I had to close SIX of them, and I didn't even move away from the home page. YOU IDIOTS!
But we end on a good note:
On this american holiday of Thanksgiving, Thew wishes you and yours health and prosperity, and the best of all things in life - except for you terrorist cowards and your lapdogs, the... well, you know who you are.
NHL
Again, too many teams is the argument spouted by those that think the product is too diluted and no longer exciting because of the overall "drop in skill level". The simple economics of revenues in the Canadian dollar and salaries in the US dollar is what is killing the Canadian teams. Only if you contract all the Canadian teams will THAT problem go away. Will that solve fan interest? Yep, in Canada. In the US, we simply MUST be able to generate more TV revenue. I hate to say it, but higher scoring and exciting physical play will go a long way toward more appeal.
But you will STILL have a small portion of the player base demanding a selfish labor agreement, not realizing that a) you are NOT working right now (unless you count sweeping floors at the local high school), b) your product has TERRIBLE revenues from TV, and c) you are officially alientating almost EVERYONE but your die hard fans. What worked for the Delta pilots union CAN work for the NHL, but it seems that in the best mold of selfish pampered high paid athletes, they cannot see the big picture, only what is in the mirror.
Behavior
Yep, I've been a my children's soccer game where parents were just poorly behaved. You see this all over the place.But that guy who threw the beer can CLEARLY be seen pulling Ron Artest off the wrong guy, then rabbit punching him in the head from behind - so he's a drunken coward with a criminal record. I hope he gets arrested (AGAIN!) and charged by the police dept for assault. Makes me sick to be an NBA fan - oh wait, the NBA sucks, I'm not a fan. hehe
As far as Artest (and my wife vehemently disagrees with me), I also can't fault him THAT much for responding to that sort of attack. He needs to be more in control, but he was lying down on the table avoiding any action. I just wish he had a few more seconds to beat the crud outta that guy...
Tiger
I think yes, he was unconscious during, say, 2002, but he was SO able to dial in then. Now with a hot swedish wife, and distractions off the course, and of course, Butch isn't his coach any more (BAD MOVE TIGER!), he cannot summon "Sunday Tiger". I hope he does again.
Oh, and frankly, from my married man's perspective, I'm not completely sure that Amy Mickelson isn't actually hotter than Mrs. Woods.
PHIL! HFS PHIL!! 59!!! 2005 is your breakout year bro...I predict another major!
USC/Clemson
First of all, neither of these are "premier educational institutions". hehe
Second of all, I really don't expect a full scale change of heart, but don't you think it's nice to have a little victory in this?
Tennis
Federer is the REAL DEAL, I think he might win the Slam next year.
Maria Sharapova (and her dad) prove that while you can be cute, nice, and a good tennis player, you can't get away with more idiotic behavior and a lack of class.
OMG, my 13 year old daughter has noticed Andy Roddick. He is her athelete crush, only slightly behind Johnny Resnick of the Goo Goo Dolls. Well, JR is a pretty man, even *I* think he's kinda hot.
Sebastian Telfair
Umm, I think he's riding the pine for a pro team. Not bad for an SI cover boy from a few years ago. Bye Bye, Telly, have a nice life as a scrub.
NASCAR
I think they got something good going here with the "Race for the Cup" format. Exciting, even though I'm not, by nature, a racing fan.
Music
What, no Motley Crue? No Poison? How can we NOT give credit to the hair bands of the 80's who brought us heavy metal BIMBO's. Short skirts, high heels, bustiers in public...WOW, what a great time in a man's life.
Personally, I think that Judas Priest's rendition of Johnny B. Goode was WAY better than Chuck's, but that's just me.
Stairway to Heaven at number 31? Hmm, I remember lo these many moons ago when that song always won the local radio show's poll at the #1 song of all time.
For Thew, it's easy to argue that Dylan should NOT be number 1. I'm just not a fan of him. How about "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mixalot. Talk about getting some bootays shaking.
This Thanksgiving's List of IDIOTS!
Michael Phelps - a DUI? at what, 19?! Did you think you would be the first athelete to drink and drive and get away with it? YOU IDIOT!
Kobe Bryant - do I even need to 'splain Lucy?
Latrell Sprewell - Spree, say it ain't so! You were such a great addition to the T'Wolves, now you're completely pissing off your teammates by saying "why should I do anything to help this team, they ain't giving me an extension and I'm trying to feed my family". On FOURTEEN MILLION a YEAR! YOU IDIOT!
SI.COM - ENOUGH with the damm AOL/TimeWarner popup ads. I had to close SIX of them, and I didn't even move away from the home page. YOU IDIOTS!
But we end on a good note:
On this american holiday of Thanksgiving, Thew wishes you and yours health and prosperity, and the best of all things in life - except for you terrorist cowards and your lapdogs, the... well, you know who you are.
11.24.2004
Scrum Rats
NHL:
I don't disagree with the NHL diversifying its base, but the league has too many teams. I thought they should have moved some teams around. I am sympathetic to having pro hockey in Canada, but if they cannot support a team that went top the Stanley Cup, then maybe they do not deserve a pro team.
Players Behavior:
I am not sure that players ever behaved better, but they were more insulated. (I do not buy that the old days were more civil.) I will say that the standard of behavior is changing all over the place. Look at any town's youth sports during a weekend. Maybe the under 8 year old games are civil, but it can get really ugly on the sidelines.
I read that sports are the only thing that men can get emotional about, but it is getting out of hand.
I have a tough time getting all angry on Artest. (He's a jerk, but I have plenty of other reasons for disliking him.) The Pacers were blowing out the Pistons, you cannot not hear want was being said to Artest, and then someone provokes him by throwing beer on him. I blame the fans. IT IS JUST A GAME. If you can not keep a perspective, take up knitting.
It is also about personal responsibility. Unfortunately, that is not a quality admired anymore.
Yankees:
It is the Cure of the Rocket...traded Clemens and the Yanks go almost 5 years without a WS ring.
Tiger:
Could it be that Tiger was just playing unconscious for that stretch? Maybe now we are seeing the real Tiger?
College Sports:
I admire your naivete. One cannot expect the leaders of the premier educational institutions to exhibit any moral standard. (See "personal responsibility" above.)
Punishing an institution is like punishing a dog. A dog does not remember the act that you are punishing it for (I am told), so you must mold future behavior only. So how do you teach boundaries when the guilty go unpunished?
You can't.
Rap:
Enough said. Rolling Stone came out with the Top 500 songs of all time. No KISS. "Imagine" by John Lennon at Number 3 before any Beatles song. Tough to argue that a Dylan song should not be number 1. Nothing by Creedence Clearwater Revival until Number 99! Highest self promotion: "Bo Diddley" by Bo Diddley at Number 62.
Just starting the discussion.
I don't disagree with the NHL diversifying its base, but the league has too many teams. I thought they should have moved some teams around. I am sympathetic to having pro hockey in Canada, but if they cannot support a team that went top the Stanley Cup, then maybe they do not deserve a pro team.
Players Behavior:
I am not sure that players ever behaved better, but they were more insulated. (I do not buy that the old days were more civil.) I will say that the standard of behavior is changing all over the place. Look at any town's youth sports during a weekend. Maybe the under 8 year old games are civil, but it can get really ugly on the sidelines.
I read that sports are the only thing that men can get emotional about, but it is getting out of hand.
I have a tough time getting all angry on Artest. (He's a jerk, but I have plenty of other reasons for disliking him.) The Pacers were blowing out the Pistons, you cannot not hear want was being said to Artest, and then someone provokes him by throwing beer on him. I blame the fans. IT IS JUST A GAME. If you can not keep a perspective, take up knitting.
It is also about personal responsibility. Unfortunately, that is not a quality admired anymore.
Yankees:
It is the Cure of the Rocket...traded Clemens and the Yanks go almost 5 years without a WS ring.
Tiger:
Could it be that Tiger was just playing unconscious for that stretch? Maybe now we are seeing the real Tiger?
College Sports:
I admire your naivete. One cannot expect the leaders of the premier educational institutions to exhibit any moral standard. (See "personal responsibility" above.)
Punishing an institution is like punishing a dog. A dog does not remember the act that you are punishing it for (I am told), so you must mold future behavior only. So how do you teach boundaries when the guilty go unpunished?
You can't.
Rap:
Enough said. Rolling Stone came out with the Top 500 songs of all time. No KISS. "Imagine" by John Lennon at Number 3 before any Beatles song. Tough to argue that a Dylan song should not be number 1. Nothing by Creedence Clearwater Revival until Number 99! Highest self promotion: "Bo Diddley" by Bo Diddley at Number 62.
Just starting the discussion.
11.22.2004
Beer me Homer, cuz you MUST be drinking
NHL:
You're tabbing expansion as the issue? Expansion teams aren't doing TOO badly, as far as I know. Atlanta, Tampa Bay (Lord Stanley's caretakers Mr College Hoops fan), Minnesota are doing pretty well, TYVM. Sure, you find a little dilution of the product - I think there might be a larger separation in skill between the top line players and the 4th line grinders - but I'm all for a larger appeal to the product, which is what it needs. I don't think that expansion is the issue here.
Why are teams losing money? Well, sure it's because of the idiot owners ponying up HUGE dollars for people, thus setting the bar too high in yet another sport (read: NBA, MLB, etc), causing salaries to rise across teh board as a result, causing a loss of money. BUT, and I take the Delta Air Lines pilots grudging unselfishness as an example here, which is better; a reduction in salary to keep your company in business and you in a job, or playing 2nd line penalty killer for the Macon Whoopee in the ECHL? (NOTE: i have nothing against the Whoopee, I just used their name because it's a GREAT name).
NBA
Umm, wow, where to begin...I still hate the NBA.
First, it is disgusting to see fans behave as they did in Detroit the other night. Drunken fat old men with a corn dog in one hand and a beer in the other shouting profanities at millionaires, especially the spoiled, selfish, thug NBA players, is a recipe for tension. Throwing objects at the players is despicable in ANY sport (see EPL and the english soccer hooligans).
BUT, that does not in any way excuse the actions of Ron Artest, Jermaine O'Neal, and Stephen Jackson. Artest is done for the year, and that's too bad; he's a million dollar talent with a 5 cent head. Why do we continue to purchase tickets for this league? It has a LONG list of unmarried fathers (Shawn Kemp), drug abusers (Damon Stoudamire), criminals (et al), yet it appeals to the young. I don't understand this.
Oh, and here's a suggestion: STOP SELLING ALCOHOL AT GAMES!!!
Today's TRIVIA - whatever happened to Sebastian Telfair?
MLB
Yes, I used the word choke. And it is the truth. Why? Because the Yankees were up 3-0 and 5 outs away, then lost it all in titantic-like fasion. Don't get me wrong, Boston played great, loose, and with passion, something that players in New York tend to not do because of the pressure (not you Shef and Godzilla), and the way they steamrolled the Cards was impressive, but that much of a collapse is a choke, imho. The Yankees stunk it up when they needed to be good. That simple. *gag*
Tiger
You got it backwards Tilam. The other players on the tour gain confidence when Tiger went into a slump, NOT the other way around. They might be a little better players because of hard work, but do you think that the tour would be feeling so chipper and giddy if Tiger were his old self? Tell me that they would be so happy if Eldrick were still the Tiger of 2002...
UBS Cup
WTF is this? Who knows? And who cares?
NCAA Football
Clemson, South Carolina - WOW, integrity in a Div 1 school?! Kudos to those universities for not tolerating yet MORE abhorrent player behavior!
NFL
I'm still not "ooo-ing and ahhh-ing" like the rest of you over Michael Vick
I think Philly wins the Super Bowl - TO is the difference this year.
The Vikings still suck defensively - and we'll never go anywhere by playing soft D. And without Randy Moss, we HAVE to play hard D - Minnesota's defense is as soft as mashed potatoes.
Golf
Lehman as Ryder Cup captain - I'm sorry, you gotta explain this one to me. Not that he's bad, but I have to admit, I thought there were better choices.
Oh, and speaking of Mark O'Meara not being chosen, do you think Tiger's going to play inspired in the next Ryder Cup? HAH! He's pretty passionless in Ryder Cup matches as it is, without his best buddy O'Mear at the helm, it'll be a coup if Lehman can inspire Tiger to play with any type of pulse.
US Soccer
I tell you, some of our home grown young start are really starting to show promise. The US will be for real and a contender the next time the World Cup is played, trust me on that one. We probably won't win, but we will go deep into the medal round - not that anyone in the US will care. And that's a shame.
Freddy Adu is too young - skilled or not, I saw him being moved around by bigger and stronger, and more savvy MLS defenders. He shouldn't have played until at least 16, to let him physically mature. But dat boy can play!
NCAA Hoops
OMG, without hockey to watch, stay tuned blog fans, for the fun and carnage that is Thew vs Tilam in NCAA Hoops. Since I have no NHL to distract me, it is ON! I am currently digesting the SI Hoops preview (good quality reading for those Sunday mornings on the throne), and I agree that Tilam and I should discuss (read: argue) a top 10 list each week. Grab some popcorn and a coke, sit back, and admire the fireworks! :)
The ACC scares me as well. But Big Least I think is due for an off year.
Rap
I'm white, can't jump, can't hip, have no hops, can't rap. I have no street cred, not intimate knowledge of rap beyond "Baby Got Back". But in the true cause of the blogger, I can jump on the soapbox and rant and rave...and I will, trust me.
Eminem is getting on my nerves - why? Because I'm starting to dig his music.
50 Cent's "In Da Club" is on my playlist - that's a catchy hook too.
Oh, and I have "Ice Ice Baby" on my mixer too. Yes, THAT Vanilla Ice. :)
You're tabbing expansion as the issue? Expansion teams aren't doing TOO badly, as far as I know. Atlanta, Tampa Bay (Lord Stanley's caretakers Mr College Hoops fan), Minnesota are doing pretty well, TYVM. Sure, you find a little dilution of the product - I think there might be a larger separation in skill between the top line players and the 4th line grinders - but I'm all for a larger appeal to the product, which is what it needs. I don't think that expansion is the issue here.
Why are teams losing money? Well, sure it's because of the idiot owners ponying up HUGE dollars for people, thus setting the bar too high in yet another sport (read: NBA, MLB, etc), causing salaries to rise across teh board as a result, causing a loss of money. BUT, and I take the Delta Air Lines pilots grudging unselfishness as an example here, which is better; a reduction in salary to keep your company in business and you in a job, or playing 2nd line penalty killer for the Macon Whoopee in the ECHL? (NOTE: i have nothing against the Whoopee, I just used their name because it's a GREAT name).
NBA
Umm, wow, where to begin...I still hate the NBA.
First, it is disgusting to see fans behave as they did in Detroit the other night. Drunken fat old men with a corn dog in one hand and a beer in the other shouting profanities at millionaires, especially the spoiled, selfish, thug NBA players, is a recipe for tension. Throwing objects at the players is despicable in ANY sport (see EPL and the english soccer hooligans).
BUT, that does not in any way excuse the actions of Ron Artest, Jermaine O'Neal, and Stephen Jackson. Artest is done for the year, and that's too bad; he's a million dollar talent with a 5 cent head. Why do we continue to purchase tickets for this league? It has a LONG list of unmarried fathers (Shawn Kemp), drug abusers (Damon Stoudamire), criminals (et al), yet it appeals to the young. I don't understand this.
Oh, and here's a suggestion: STOP SELLING ALCOHOL AT GAMES!!!
Today's TRIVIA - whatever happened to Sebastian Telfair?
MLB
Yes, I used the word choke. And it is the truth. Why? Because the Yankees were up 3-0 and 5 outs away, then lost it all in titantic-like fasion. Don't get me wrong, Boston played great, loose, and with passion, something that players in New York tend to not do because of the pressure (not you Shef and Godzilla), and the way they steamrolled the Cards was impressive, but that much of a collapse is a choke, imho. The Yankees stunk it up when they needed to be good. That simple. *gag*
Tiger
You got it backwards Tilam. The other players on the tour gain confidence when Tiger went into a slump, NOT the other way around. They might be a little better players because of hard work, but do you think that the tour would be feeling so chipper and giddy if Tiger were his old self? Tell me that they would be so happy if Eldrick were still the Tiger of 2002...
UBS Cup
WTF is this? Who knows? And who cares?
NCAA Football
Clemson, South Carolina - WOW, integrity in a Div 1 school?! Kudos to those universities for not tolerating yet MORE abhorrent player behavior!
NFL
I'm still not "ooo-ing and ahhh-ing" like the rest of you over Michael Vick
I think Philly wins the Super Bowl - TO is the difference this year.
The Vikings still suck defensively - and we'll never go anywhere by playing soft D. And without Randy Moss, we HAVE to play hard D - Minnesota's defense is as soft as mashed potatoes.
Golf
Lehman as Ryder Cup captain - I'm sorry, you gotta explain this one to me. Not that he's bad, but I have to admit, I thought there were better choices.
Oh, and speaking of Mark O'Meara not being chosen, do you think Tiger's going to play inspired in the next Ryder Cup? HAH! He's pretty passionless in Ryder Cup matches as it is, without his best buddy O'Mear at the helm, it'll be a coup if Lehman can inspire Tiger to play with any type of pulse.
US Soccer
I tell you, some of our home grown young start are really starting to show promise. The US will be for real and a contender the next time the World Cup is played, trust me on that one. We probably won't win, but we will go deep into the medal round - not that anyone in the US will care. And that's a shame.
Freddy Adu is too young - skilled or not, I saw him being moved around by bigger and stronger, and more savvy MLS defenders. He shouldn't have played until at least 16, to let him physically mature. But dat boy can play!
NCAA Hoops
OMG, without hockey to watch, stay tuned blog fans, for the fun and carnage that is Thew vs Tilam in NCAA Hoops. Since I have no NHL to distract me, it is ON! I am currently digesting the SI Hoops preview (good quality reading for those Sunday mornings on the throne), and I agree that Tilam and I should discuss (read: argue) a top 10 list each week. Grab some popcorn and a coke, sit back, and admire the fireworks! :)
The ACC scares me as well. But Big Least I think is due for an off year.
Rap
I'm white, can't jump, can't hip, have no hops, can't rap. I have no street cred, not intimate knowledge of rap beyond "Baby Got Back". But in the true cause of the blogger, I can jump on the soapbox and rant and rave...and I will, trust me.
Eminem is getting on my nerves - why? Because I'm starting to dig his music.
50 Cent's "In Da Club" is on my playlist - that's a catchy hook too.
Oh, and I have "Ice Ice Baby" on my mixer too. Yes, THAT Vanilla Ice. :)
Rant Back at You
Since blogging is also a dialogue...
NHL:
For once, I am siding with the players. Too much expansion in markets that just should not have a professional hockey team. They need to cut back by about 8 teams. But 10 teams would give them more breathing room.
Tiger:
"Slump?" I am not sure. I am sure that the rest of the field is a little better and more confident. Vijay, Phil, Ernie, Retief, Mike Weir, Davis Love III just are not that intimidated any more. The question is not what Tiger has done, but whether he can do it again against the "new and improved" PGA tour.
Yankees & King George:
To say they choked diminishes Boston's accomplishment. The fact is that the Yankees played above their level all year. The pitching was the worst it has been since 1994, either too new to the Bronx or too fragile for the Bronx. David Justice said that not every superstar can hack it in New York- it is a different league.
The Boss need to take deep breaths, get his own reality TV show (or focus on his budding career as a VISA pitchman) and let Cashman and Torre fix the pitching staff. Then all will be right again in NY.
Maurice Clarett:
You said it, STFU, Maurice. The line for the role of over-hyped, all talk, no talent, NFL blow hard gets longer each day.
Shaq, Kobe, NBA:
Argh. There are not a lot of people who can match my passion for NCAA Hoops (obviously excepting Thew), and there are fewer who can match my disgust with the pro version. I might rant about pro players occasionally, but whenever I rant about the OHATNTNFLBH (see Maurice Clarett above), the guys who throw on the pads work freakin' hard to be able to play week in week out. TO, Ray Lewis, Jeremy Shockey may rub the wrong way, but I do not question their work ethic.
I cannot say the same about Shaq, Kobe, Artest and the rest of the bunch.
Caveat, my apologies to Rip Hamilton, Amare Stoudemire, Ray Allen, LeBron James and the others who really work it. In the NBA's case, I am willing to throw out the baby to get rid of the bath water.
Rap:
I will never be cool enough or hip enough to comment about rap. If I try, shoot me.
(Oops, in the case of rap, they might take me seriously. Just kidding.)
(About the shoot me part.)
NCAA Hoops:
Oh, glorious sporting days. I hope that Thew and I will consider a TOP 10 posting on a regular basis. That said, I do not think you can tell anything before January. With few exceptions, November and December are just warm-ups where anything can happen. (That said, Arizona looks like they are in post-season form.)
But one quick comment: I always complain that the ACC is way over-rated, mostly because of ESPN which seems to double as the ACC's PR firm. This year, I am keeping my mouth shut. With what Virginia did to Arizona, NC, Wake, GT and (of course) Duke, this may be a real year of dominance.
NHL:
For once, I am siding with the players. Too much expansion in markets that just should not have a professional hockey team. They need to cut back by about 8 teams. But 10 teams would give them more breathing room.
Tiger:
"Slump?" I am not sure. I am sure that the rest of the field is a little better and more confident. Vijay, Phil, Ernie, Retief, Mike Weir, Davis Love III just are not that intimidated any more. The question is not what Tiger has done, but whether he can do it again against the "new and improved" PGA tour.
Yankees & King George:
To say they choked diminishes Boston's accomplishment. The fact is that the Yankees played above their level all year. The pitching was the worst it has been since 1994, either too new to the Bronx or too fragile for the Bronx. David Justice said that not every superstar can hack it in New York- it is a different league.
The Boss need to take deep breaths, get his own reality TV show (or focus on his budding career as a VISA pitchman) and let Cashman and Torre fix the pitching staff. Then all will be right again in NY.
Maurice Clarett:
You said it, STFU, Maurice. The line for the role of over-hyped, all talk, no talent, NFL blow hard gets longer each day.
Shaq, Kobe, NBA:
Argh. There are not a lot of people who can match my passion for NCAA Hoops (obviously excepting Thew), and there are fewer who can match my disgust with the pro version. I might rant about pro players occasionally, but whenever I rant about the OHATNTNFLBH (see Maurice Clarett above), the guys who throw on the pads work freakin' hard to be able to play week in week out. TO, Ray Lewis, Jeremy Shockey may rub the wrong way, but I do not question their work ethic.
I cannot say the same about Shaq, Kobe, Artest and the rest of the bunch.
Caveat, my apologies to Rip Hamilton, Amare Stoudemire, Ray Allen, LeBron James and the others who really work it. In the NBA's case, I am willing to throw out the baby to get rid of the bath water.
Rap:
I will never be cool enough or hip enough to comment about rap. If I try, shoot me.
(Oops, in the case of rap, they might take me seriously. Just kidding.)
(About the shoot me part.)
NCAA Hoops:
Oh, glorious sporting days. I hope that Thew and I will consider a TOP 10 posting on a regular basis. That said, I do not think you can tell anything before January. With few exceptions, November and December are just warm-ups where anything can happen. (That said, Arizona looks like they are in post-season form.)
But one quick comment: I always complain that the ACC is way over-rated, mostly because of ESPN which seems to double as the ACC's PR firm. This year, I am keeping my mouth shut. With what Virginia did to Arizona, NC, Wake, GT and (of course) Duke, this may be a real year of dominance.
Beating the Rap
I guess Ron Artest can promote his rap album full time now.
That day job just gets in the way.
That day job just gets in the way.
11.17.2004
Today's Ranting and Raving
Hmm, where to start...
NHL
You people are STOOPID! Let's face it, when your major hockey night games are being outdrawn by Nordic Curling, it is NOT a good time to go on strike. %5 of the highest earning players are holding the entire league hostage, I bet. Shut up and get a deal done. NHL is now unofficially crippled as a viable sport in the US. It took MLB 10 years to recover from their strike, you are on life support, trust me - except in Canada.
Tiger Wooods
In a slump. But not because his golf game sux, but because he's focused on life outside of golf...ie, Elle Nordegren (don't start me about how distracting she can be!). Jack (no last name needed) went 12 majors without a win during one stretch in his life; why? Because he married Barbara and started his family. It's understandable. So do the family thing, Tiger, and come back to the PGA with that killer instinct again, Thew knows you'll find it. Also, I hate Vijay, I'm already tired of seeing his face at the top of the world rankings (anyone who disses Annika...)
The Yankees
You gave it up. Choked. Coughed up a hairball. Do the Sawx remind you of anyone you might remember from years past? Yep, the 1998 Yankees. Resilient. Character players. Mentally tough players from top to botton (well, except Knoblauch). Time to get ready for next year.
King George
OMG, DON'T PANIC! Don't talk to Pedro, he's nothing but a washed up smack talking pitcher who's going to cost you too many dollars; and as for sticking it to the Bosox, win the series, start another curse for Boston. Leiber is worth keeping, make sure he's still around next year, but NOT for 8 million. Beltran is a great player, but he's WAY over priced based on one good season. SAVE THE MONEY FOR PITCHING! Keep Posada! Bring back Tino, DUMP Giambi. Ever since Giambi got off the sauce (the marinara sauce, riiiiight), he's been a lesser player imo. Javier Vasquez is an up and comer, he's got good stuff, he just needs a little more consistency and confidence, keep him around. I'm torn on the Big Unit...but I say if you can get for a fair price, GET HIM!
Maurice Clarett
So you are angry at Ohio State for what they did? You want to stay in the headlines? You want to make money with appearance fees telling your "dirty college" story? PUHLEEZE. Shut up and practice so you can get drafted in the 6th round of the NFL draft. STFU. When you're a factor in the NLF, when you're shredding pro players like you *cough* did in college, then you can crow. Otherwise, stfu and prepare for your next career - as a gas station attendant. You will be irrelevant in 3 years, a card carrying member of the ryan leaf group of ex-NFLers who are now invisible and done.
Shaq
You are certainly the biggest thing to hit Miami in a long time, that's for sure. But you won't win a championship with the Heat. Sorry.
Kobe
How can a young man from such a great family hoops tradition turn into such a primadonna? Such a petulant selfish crybaby? I don't know either.
P Diddy
Get a real nickname. WTF is "p diddy"? Heck, I like "puffy" better. At least as "puffy" you got JLo.
Vikings
OMG, someone fix Randy Moss quickly. We suck without him. Oh wait, we can score, it's our DEFENSE that sucks!
NFL
Young QB's who are the real deal - Leftwich, Roethliesberger, Carr (if they ever put a team around him). I hope Eli Manning falls FLAT ON HIS FACE...well, for a while. I hate people who dictate draft trades cuz they don't wanna play for a team - oh wait, John Elway did it you say? Yep, and I hated him at first. Then he paid his dues, played hard, earned our respect, and finished with 2 super bowl victories. The verdict is still out on Manning (either Manning, I should say). Heck, did the Manning family EVER win a super bowl?
College Football and the BCS
Umm, who cares?
College Hoops...
Be still my beating heart. College hoops season draweth nigh...
Okay, that's enuf for now...I have typers cramp and need to draw a breath.
Thew
"if you think the price of knowledge is too high, think about the price of ignorance"
NHL
You people are STOOPID! Let's face it, when your major hockey night games are being outdrawn by Nordic Curling, it is NOT a good time to go on strike. %5 of the highest earning players are holding the entire league hostage, I bet. Shut up and get a deal done. NHL is now unofficially crippled as a viable sport in the US. It took MLB 10 years to recover from their strike, you are on life support, trust me - except in Canada.
Tiger Wooods
In a slump. But not because his golf game sux, but because he's focused on life outside of golf...ie, Elle Nordegren (don't start me about how distracting she can be!). Jack (no last name needed) went 12 majors without a win during one stretch in his life; why? Because he married Barbara and started his family. It's understandable. So do the family thing, Tiger, and come back to the PGA with that killer instinct again, Thew knows you'll find it. Also, I hate Vijay, I'm already tired of seeing his face at the top of the world rankings (anyone who disses Annika...)
The Yankees
You gave it up. Choked. Coughed up a hairball. Do the Sawx remind you of anyone you might remember from years past? Yep, the 1998 Yankees. Resilient. Character players. Mentally tough players from top to botton (well, except Knoblauch). Time to get ready for next year.
King George
OMG, DON'T PANIC! Don't talk to Pedro, he's nothing but a washed up smack talking pitcher who's going to cost you too many dollars; and as for sticking it to the Bosox, win the series, start another curse for Boston. Leiber is worth keeping, make sure he's still around next year, but NOT for 8 million. Beltran is a great player, but he's WAY over priced based on one good season. SAVE THE MONEY FOR PITCHING! Keep Posada! Bring back Tino, DUMP Giambi. Ever since Giambi got off the sauce (the marinara sauce, riiiiight), he's been a lesser player imo. Javier Vasquez is an up and comer, he's got good stuff, he just needs a little more consistency and confidence, keep him around. I'm torn on the Big Unit...but I say if you can get for a fair price, GET HIM!
Maurice Clarett
So you are angry at Ohio State for what they did? You want to stay in the headlines? You want to make money with appearance fees telling your "dirty college" story? PUHLEEZE. Shut up and practice so you can get drafted in the 6th round of the NFL draft. STFU. When you're a factor in the NLF, when you're shredding pro players like you *cough* did in college, then you can crow. Otherwise, stfu and prepare for your next career - as a gas station attendant. You will be irrelevant in 3 years, a card carrying member of the ryan leaf group of ex-NFLers who are now invisible and done.
Shaq
You are certainly the biggest thing to hit Miami in a long time, that's for sure. But you won't win a championship with the Heat. Sorry.
Kobe
How can a young man from such a great family hoops tradition turn into such a primadonna? Such a petulant selfish crybaby? I don't know either.
P Diddy
Get a real nickname. WTF is "p diddy"? Heck, I like "puffy" better. At least as "puffy" you got JLo.
Vikings
OMG, someone fix Randy Moss quickly. We suck without him. Oh wait, we can score, it's our DEFENSE that sucks!
NFL
Young QB's who are the real deal - Leftwich, Roethliesberger, Carr (if they ever put a team around him). I hope Eli Manning falls FLAT ON HIS FACE...well, for a while. I hate people who dictate draft trades cuz they don't wanna play for a team - oh wait, John Elway did it you say? Yep, and I hated him at first. Then he paid his dues, played hard, earned our respect, and finished with 2 super bowl victories. The verdict is still out on Manning (either Manning, I should say). Heck, did the Manning family EVER win a super bowl?
College Football and the BCS
Umm, who cares?
College Hoops...
Be still my beating heart. College hoops season draweth nigh...
Okay, that's enuf for now...I have typers cramp and need to draw a breath.
Thew
"if you think the price of knowledge is too high, think about the price of ignorance"
11.16.2004
The new lunatic on the block
Hey! This is Thew. I'm a RL pal of Tilam, and in a sick sense of the word was an integral part of him getting that name.
I'm old, fussy, crabby, and all around facetious. I do not tolerate stupidity, slackerness, and an avoidance of one's responsiblity to be a good person to yourself, your family, and your friends.
I'm a sports fan mostly, leaving the politico of Tilam to carry that load for us. I love the NHL (rant coming), college hoops, and the Yankees (go ahead, give it to me). I play as much golf as possible (Tiger IS in a slump, but for a good reason), and my nightly vice is Everquest, an online role playing game.
I will flame, rant, rave, and throw as many barbs as I can. I also welcome others to fire back at me, always up for a good cat-fight.
L8R
I'm old, fussy, crabby, and all around facetious. I do not tolerate stupidity, slackerness, and an avoidance of one's responsiblity to be a good person to yourself, your family, and your friends.
I'm a sports fan mostly, leaving the politico of Tilam to carry that load for us. I love the NHL (rant coming), college hoops, and the Yankees (go ahead, give it to me). I play as much golf as possible (Tiger IS in a slump, but for a good reason), and my nightly vice is Everquest, an online role playing game.
I will flame, rant, rave, and throw as many barbs as I can. I also welcome others to fire back at me, always up for a good cat-fight.
L8R
11.12.2004
Reflections on Elections Part 3
I have tried to point out that I do not believe that this election was a repudiation of Democrat positions on various issues. More specifically, I think that it would be unwise for the Democrats to abandon their long held beliefs just yet.
The economics position of the Democrats is the easiest to argue. I won't mince words, there is something inherently appealing to the electorate about big government handouts. It does surprise me that most Americans will tolerate the level of spending of the government, but it is what it is. People just expect a certain level of social spending.
I think in this election, President Bush benefited from a reasonable economy (nationally) and some specific agenda items, such as reforming social security. Senator Kerry took the Gore 2000 approach and railed against Benedict Arnold CEOs and "big" business. More than in other areas, I think Senator Kerry suffered from a lack of focus on the future. The only specific item he did say (unequivocally) was that he would raise taxes - a losing strategy.
The Clintonian approach - focusing on the needy and less fortunate - and then, awe shucks what a surprise, we need to raise taxes a little bit - is the tried and true formula for the Democrats. The generous American voting public would accept this.
***
I think the problems the Democrats face are much more difficult to remedy. Demographics are completely undermining the core of the Democratic constituency. The Democrats have classically relied on minority groups (in particular, blacks and Jews) and unions and recently added the trial lawyers as core contributors. But black loyalty is slowly eroding (and will continue to do so with each generation) and the unions (excepting public sector) are diminishing in membership. Trial lawyers? They would be just as popular embracing the pedophile priest lobby.
Where do you go? Maybe borrow a concept from the lawyers: the reasonable man standard. Tolerance, inclusiveness, liberalness with some limits. The idea that the left has no limits to what they accept as "acceptable" behavior is the major problem facing them today. In every aspect of the debate (especially the domestic debate), there is a legitimate question as to what level of behavior would not be acceptable - when would the Left draw the line. I think President Clinton's "Sister Souljah" moment had a bigger impact then anyone imagined. A Democrat finally said "enough." Candidate Kerry and the DNC had plenty of opportunities for a "Sister Souljah" moment - Michael Moore, Whoopi Goldberg, moveon.org - but never took the opportunity. In fact, Senator Kerry explicitly endorsed some of them.
The Republicans might just be better internal policeman because the left-leaning MSM brings any extremist behavior front and center (e.g., Trent Lott). Maybe the NY Times and CBS News would be more effective for the Democrats if they policed the left as vigorously.
The economics position of the Democrats is the easiest to argue. I won't mince words, there is something inherently appealing to the electorate about big government handouts. It does surprise me that most Americans will tolerate the level of spending of the government, but it is what it is. People just expect a certain level of social spending.
I think in this election, President Bush benefited from a reasonable economy (nationally) and some specific agenda items, such as reforming social security. Senator Kerry took the Gore 2000 approach and railed against Benedict Arnold CEOs and "big" business. More than in other areas, I think Senator Kerry suffered from a lack of focus on the future. The only specific item he did say (unequivocally) was that he would raise taxes - a losing strategy.
The Clintonian approach - focusing on the needy and less fortunate - and then, awe shucks what a surprise, we need to raise taxes a little bit - is the tried and true formula for the Democrats. The generous American voting public would accept this.
***
I think the problems the Democrats face are much more difficult to remedy. Demographics are completely undermining the core of the Democratic constituency. The Democrats have classically relied on minority groups (in particular, blacks and Jews) and unions and recently added the trial lawyers as core contributors. But black loyalty is slowly eroding (and will continue to do so with each generation) and the unions (excepting public sector) are diminishing in membership. Trial lawyers? They would be just as popular embracing the pedophile priest lobby.
Where do you go? Maybe borrow a concept from the lawyers: the reasonable man standard. Tolerance, inclusiveness, liberalness with some limits. The idea that the left has no limits to what they accept as "acceptable" behavior is the major problem facing them today. In every aspect of the debate (especially the domestic debate), there is a legitimate question as to what level of behavior would not be acceptable - when would the Left draw the line. I think President Clinton's "Sister Souljah" moment had a bigger impact then anyone imagined. A Democrat finally said "enough." Candidate Kerry and the DNC had plenty of opportunities for a "Sister Souljah" moment - Michael Moore, Whoopi Goldberg, moveon.org - but never took the opportunity. In fact, Senator Kerry explicitly endorsed some of them.
The Republicans might just be better internal policeman because the left-leaning MSM brings any extremist behavior front and center (e.g., Trent Lott). Maybe the NY Times and CBS News would be more effective for the Democrats if they policed the left as vigorously.
11.10.2004
Reflections on Elections Part 2
My theme in these posts is to examine some of the self-flagellation of the Democrats and to throw in my few cents. My proposition is that there is nothing in this election the Democrats should take to mean that their underlying principles have been rejected by the electorate. Below I tossed in a few thoughts on the GWOT/Iraq, now let's take a look at moral values.
There seems to be a basic premise that the Democrats lost the moral values vote. I think a number of writers and bloggers have shown that the religious right did not carry the election for the President, despite this theme. And several has noted that "moral issues' is vague enough that it probably did not mean "gay marriage" to the voters who responded. But I would go further, I suggest that the Democrats stick to their guns on the moral and cultural issues, with one caveat, if they are looking to take the White House in 2008.
Despite the vitriol expressed toward the President and, subsequent to the election, Bush voters, the Democrats are generally thought of in terms of acceptance and inclusiveness. Maybe this is changing, but I don't see real proof of it. (Let's face it, the liberal bias of the MSM enables the fringe elements of the Democratic party - cough*O'Donnell*cough*Moore*cough - to have access to the airwaves, but they have not altered the general image of the Democrats. Further, I am not saying this is correct.) Thus, I think that voters, generally, will give higher marks to the Democrats on the cultural issues. You might not agree that gays should have marriages or civil unions, but you are comfortable that the Democrats will be responsive to your positions, even if they are not traditional.
Now you can see the fine line: if the O'Donnells and Moores of the world become the face of the Democratic party, this image of inclusiveness will erode. Some years back, the Republicans had a similar "problem" with Ralph Reed. Mr. Reed was becoming a huge liability for the Republicans image. While noone worked harder for conservative causes, Mr. Reed was painted as a bigoted extremist representing the religious right. Mr. Reed was given or got the message. Today, Ralph Reed works as hard for conservatives and their causes, but he is difficult to find.
Now the caveat. The calculus on "moral issues" is two fold. First, what do I want and second, what can I accept. For example, one can be for the right to choose, but accept certain restrictions on that right (no partial birth abortions, parental notification, etc.). One could be against gay marriage, but accept legal equality for gays through civil unions. Senator Kerry could not have played these issues worse if he had tried. Tried hard. Tried really, really, hard. President Bush, on the other hand, was a virtuoso. (The President had certain built in advantages: the right to choose is the law of the land, so he can seem reasonable about adding restrictions; Vice President Cheney's daughter and the President's support of civil unions allowed the administration to seem progressive.)
But Senator Kerry's voting record was so awful on these matters, that he could not bring them up. His position on abortion restrictions, combined with his professed Catholicism, allowed voters to think the worst: he was a hypocrite. The challenge is to appeal to the base, but allow room for the "buts" that will soften the swing voters and allow the broad electorate to accept your position.
Suffice to say that President Clinton was the anti-Kerry.
Next, economics and the shifting demographics in Part 3.
There seems to be a basic premise that the Democrats lost the moral values vote. I think a number of writers and bloggers have shown that the religious right did not carry the election for the President, despite this theme. And several has noted that "moral issues' is vague enough that it probably did not mean "gay marriage" to the voters who responded. But I would go further, I suggest that the Democrats stick to their guns on the moral and cultural issues, with one caveat, if they are looking to take the White House in 2008.
Despite the vitriol expressed toward the President and, subsequent to the election, Bush voters, the Democrats are generally thought of in terms of acceptance and inclusiveness. Maybe this is changing, but I don't see real proof of it. (Let's face it, the liberal bias of the MSM enables the fringe elements of the Democratic party - cough*O'Donnell*cough*Moore*cough - to have access to the airwaves, but they have not altered the general image of the Democrats. Further, I am not saying this is correct.) Thus, I think that voters, generally, will give higher marks to the Democrats on the cultural issues. You might not agree that gays should have marriages or civil unions, but you are comfortable that the Democrats will be responsive to your positions, even if they are not traditional.
Now you can see the fine line: if the O'Donnells and Moores of the world become the face of the Democratic party, this image of inclusiveness will erode. Some years back, the Republicans had a similar "problem" with Ralph Reed. Mr. Reed was becoming a huge liability for the Republicans image. While noone worked harder for conservative causes, Mr. Reed was painted as a bigoted extremist representing the religious right. Mr. Reed was given or got the message. Today, Ralph Reed works as hard for conservatives and their causes, but he is difficult to find.
Now the caveat. The calculus on "moral issues" is two fold. First, what do I want and second, what can I accept. For example, one can be for the right to choose, but accept certain restrictions on that right (no partial birth abortions, parental notification, etc.). One could be against gay marriage, but accept legal equality for gays through civil unions. Senator Kerry could not have played these issues worse if he had tried. Tried hard. Tried really, really, hard. President Bush, on the other hand, was a virtuoso. (The President had certain built in advantages: the right to choose is the law of the land, so he can seem reasonable about adding restrictions; Vice President Cheney's daughter and the President's support of civil unions allowed the administration to seem progressive.)
But Senator Kerry's voting record was so awful on these matters, that he could not bring them up. His position on abortion restrictions, combined with his professed Catholicism, allowed voters to think the worst: he was a hypocrite. The challenge is to appeal to the base, but allow room for the "buts" that will soften the swing voters and allow the broad electorate to accept your position.
Suffice to say that President Clinton was the anti-Kerry.
Next, economics and the shifting demographics in Part 3.
Reflections on Elections Part 1
I have not posted for awhile for two reasons. First, it has been tough to keep up (let alone stay ahead of) the good work being done in the blogosphere. Second, finding the time to be thoughtful has been more of a challenge then I expected. But with the elections behind us I wanted to reflect on several themes and mems and try and add to the debate.
First off, there seems to be a general theme that the Democratic Party needs to rethink its position on issues (social, economic, national security) and move to the center. Magnanimous of the right to suggest that, but totally unecessary. There is nothing in this election the Democrats should take to mean that their underlying principles have been rejected. This elections was about tactics, not strategy. And the loss relects the judgment of the electorate that, at this point, the tactics we are employing are fine. In two or four years, the same thing may not hold.
I believe this holds true to the three big issues voters identified: GWOT/Iraq, moral values and the economy. I think the GWOT/Iraq was framed (by the Republicans as the party in power) as a choice between pro-active and reactive tactics. While Senator Kerry was forceful in his statements that he would "hunt down and kill" the terrorists, the real unanswered question was when? Before they kamikaze a fully fueled plane into the Magic Kingdom during winter break? Or after? The Republicans were able to establish (in the minds of the electorate) that the answer was "after." This was especially true after Senator Kerry's remarks about bringing terrorism down to a nuisance level. What's a nuisance? 50 dead? 500 dead? 5,000 dead? This implied there was a level of "acceptable losses" to the Senator. The electorate knew the level of "acceptable losses" to the President - zero.
I do not believe anyone was confused that Senator Kerry's strategy - "hunt down and kill" the terrorists - was substantially different that the President's.
Of course, Iraq was also a tactical debate. Should we be there? How long should we stay? How much leadership de we provide to the world? What is the role of allies? The UN? Are all allies equal? Or are certain allies (French and Germans) more important than others (British and Australians)? (One could argue that there was a broader strategy debate on these questions and issues of regime change and spreading democracy, but I do not think that question was part of the electorate's calculus. This time.)
Now tactically, I think is was very clear what the position of the candidates was. The electorate certainly had a distinct choice. Coming back to the idea of the Democrats not moving to the center, it is not clear to me that faced with the same choices in 2008, the electorate might opt for a different approach. If the Democratic Party believes in its 2004 positions, I do not see any reason to change.
On to "moral values" in Part 2.
First off, there seems to be a general theme that the Democratic Party needs to rethink its position on issues (social, economic, national security) and move to the center. Magnanimous of the right to suggest that, but totally unecessary. There is nothing in this election the Democrats should take to mean that their underlying principles have been rejected. This elections was about tactics, not strategy. And the loss relects the judgment of the electorate that, at this point, the tactics we are employing are fine. In two or four years, the same thing may not hold.
I believe this holds true to the three big issues voters identified: GWOT/Iraq, moral values and the economy. I think the GWOT/Iraq was framed (by the Republicans as the party in power) as a choice between pro-active and reactive tactics. While Senator Kerry was forceful in his statements that he would "hunt down and kill" the terrorists, the real unanswered question was when? Before they kamikaze a fully fueled plane into the Magic Kingdom during winter break? Or after? The Republicans were able to establish (in the minds of the electorate) that the answer was "after." This was especially true after Senator Kerry's remarks about bringing terrorism down to a nuisance level. What's a nuisance? 50 dead? 500 dead? 5,000 dead? This implied there was a level of "acceptable losses" to the Senator. The electorate knew the level of "acceptable losses" to the President - zero.
I do not believe anyone was confused that Senator Kerry's strategy - "hunt down and kill" the terrorists - was substantially different that the President's.
Of course, Iraq was also a tactical debate. Should we be there? How long should we stay? How much leadership de we provide to the world? What is the role of allies? The UN? Are all allies equal? Or are certain allies (French and Germans) more important than others (British and Australians)? (One could argue that there was a broader strategy debate on these questions and issues of regime change and spreading democracy, but I do not think that question was part of the electorate's calculus. This time.)
Now tactically, I think is was very clear what the position of the candidates was. The electorate certainly had a distinct choice. Coming back to the idea of the Democrats not moving to the center, it is not clear to me that faced with the same choices in 2008, the electorate might opt for a different approach. If the Democratic Party believes in its 2004 positions, I do not see any reason to change.
On to "moral values" in Part 2.
9.30.2004
Hewitt and the Orangutan
Hugh Hewitt's column in the Weekly Standard is manifesting a problem developing in the blogoshere right now. Fresh off its victory in the Rathergate scandal, the blogoshere is going a bit over the top on what it thinks is "news." I am sorry, Hugh, but John Kerry OD'ing on beta carotene or losing the fight with the bronzer girl is not news. Hugh makes the point:
"[MSM not reporting on Kerry's 'tan'] is doubly indefensible because candidate appearance stories have mattered in presidential debates from Nixon's sweat in 1960 to Gore's pancake in 2000. If Kerry's sudden play for the Great Pumpkin vote isn't gone or made over by tonight, millions of viewers won't get past his appearance to hear what he has to say about his many positions on Iraq because they won't be able to stop laughing."
Okay, Hugh, I am kinda with you, but its not the debates yet. Then he loses me:
"Old media's refusal to note what ordinary Americans are talking about is the latest in a series of stubborn refusals that began with elitist indifference and ideological bent and which are ending in irrelevance."
I just do not feel anyone, MSM or the blogoshere, has a responsibility to note "what ordinary Americans are talking." With all the high crimes and misdemeanors MSM has perpetrated, Kerry's skin tone does not rank high.
Further, note Hugh's ideological leap: Rathergate was about accuracy in what was reported (a sin of commission, if you will), now Hugh is taking MSM to task about a sin of omission.
I am not there. While I think there are plenty of stories MSM misses every day, that is their choice. What I expect from them is to get it right if they choose to report. Right now, that is hard enough.
"[MSM not reporting on Kerry's 'tan'] is doubly indefensible because candidate appearance stories have mattered in presidential debates from Nixon's sweat in 1960 to Gore's pancake in 2000. If Kerry's sudden play for the Great Pumpkin vote isn't gone or made over by tonight, millions of viewers won't get past his appearance to hear what he has to say about his many positions on Iraq because they won't be able to stop laughing."
Okay, Hugh, I am kinda with you, but its not the debates yet. Then he loses me:
"Old media's refusal to note what ordinary Americans are talking about is the latest in a series of stubborn refusals that began with elitist indifference and ideological bent and which are ending in irrelevance."
I just do not feel anyone, MSM or the blogoshere, has a responsibility to note "what ordinary Americans are talking." With all the high crimes and misdemeanors MSM has perpetrated, Kerry's skin tone does not rank high.
Further, note Hugh's ideological leap: Rathergate was about accuracy in what was reported (a sin of commission, if you will), now Hugh is taking MSM to task about a sin of omission.
I am not there. While I think there are plenty of stories MSM misses every day, that is their choice. What I expect from them is to get it right if they choose to report. Right now, that is hard enough.
9.28.2004
Dems in 2008
Assuming that things go the way they seem to be and President Bush does not step into it with the debates, GWB wins in 2004. So what about 2008? Ramesh Ponnuru engages in some idle speculation. Most interestingly, Ramesh assumes two things, first the GWOT will continue (highly likely) and second, the HRC will be the nominee.
Given the 2004 campaign, is that a certainty? A month ago, I would have said yes, but seeing how badly Terry McAuliffe and Joe Lockhart have performed (both loyal Clintonistas), I am no longer sure. I wonder if HRC will be tainted with that brush.
Probably not. The fact is John Kerry is a completely un appealing candidate that has run an unappealing campaign. (One can argue that President Bush has also run an unappealing campaign, ala Andrew Sullivan.) He has not acted Presidential in the least. Nor has his staff, nor has the chairman of the DNC. Again, all these points can be argued against the Republicans, but the individuals (Bush, Rove, Gillespie) have pretty much stayed out of it. I think most voters will be forgiving of flip-flops and what one did 30 years ago, but for God sakes act the part. JFK has not.
So what about HRC in 2008. While I am not an HRC fan, I think she has tremendous cross over appeal. She has a very likeable public persona, she is unquestionably smart (book and street) and she plays the system like a virtuoso. She does not pander hard to the base because the base knows her and she is confident enough to realize that the Democratic base is not going anywhere. She will craft a centrist message and has not been in the Senate long enough to suffer an attackable voting record. (As for Hillarycare, she will brush that off as a great idea, badly implemented. "Let's do it right next time.")
Further, she has her own team. She will not stand by while her husband's political cronies (especially a lightening rod like McAuliffe) screw-up. Her team will a classic liberal, Democrat team cloaked in the "New Democrat" label - no Max Cleland's around. And, she will run as the incumbent. The Republican nominee will be new to the nation (a downside of a Bush/Cheney ticket), but she will run as Clinton III (and IV).
Ouch. Unless Rudy Gulianni runs, HRC beats a Republican governor of your choice by 4%, picks up a working majority in the Senate and has small gains in the House. Remember, you heard it here first.
Given the 2004 campaign, is that a certainty? A month ago, I would have said yes, but seeing how badly Terry McAuliffe and Joe Lockhart have performed (both loyal Clintonistas), I am no longer sure. I wonder if HRC will be tainted with that brush.
Probably not. The fact is John Kerry is a completely un appealing candidate that has run an unappealing campaign. (One can argue that President Bush has also run an unappealing campaign, ala Andrew Sullivan.) He has not acted Presidential in the least. Nor has his staff, nor has the chairman of the DNC. Again, all these points can be argued against the Republicans, but the individuals (Bush, Rove, Gillespie) have pretty much stayed out of it. I think most voters will be forgiving of flip-flops and what one did 30 years ago, but for God sakes act the part. JFK has not.
So what about HRC in 2008. While I am not an HRC fan, I think she has tremendous cross over appeal. She has a very likeable public persona, she is unquestionably smart (book and street) and she plays the system like a virtuoso. She does not pander hard to the base because the base knows her and she is confident enough to realize that the Democratic base is not going anywhere. She will craft a centrist message and has not been in the Senate long enough to suffer an attackable voting record. (As for Hillarycare, she will brush that off as a great idea, badly implemented. "Let's do it right next time.")
Further, she has her own team. She will not stand by while her husband's political cronies (especially a lightening rod like McAuliffe) screw-up. Her team will a classic liberal, Democrat team cloaked in the "New Democrat" label - no Max Cleland's around. And, she will run as the incumbent. The Republican nominee will be new to the nation (a downside of a Bush/Cheney ticket), but she will run as Clinton III (and IV).
Ouch. Unless Rudy Gulianni runs, HRC beats a Republican governor of your choice by 4%, picks up a working majority in the Senate and has small gains in the House. Remember, you heard it here first.
9.20.2004
CBS' Mea Culpa
So Dan Rather has expressed his apologies for what happened. CBS will investigate the incident and get back to us. I am sure in late November.
Hugh Hewitt, Jim Geraghty, the folks at the Corner and even Glenn Reynolds are not satisfied. I am very satisfied. As I said below, I think Dan Rather - hobbled, humbled, and doubted - in place is a much better partisan outcome then his head on a pike and CBS with a fresh start. Graciously accept the apology, knowing that plenty of viewers just switiched to FOX or ABC or NBC.
Mary Mapes is toast. John Ellis is being kind to her, though I think I would hold out for seven figures for the book deal.
On another note, first Barnes' daughter (maybe) and then Mapes' dad publicly trashing their family. What is up with this? And this is not some polite "I don't agree with their position" talk. Very public, very tough. I guess I am naive, but I can't see doing that
Hugh Hewitt, Jim Geraghty, the folks at the Corner and even Glenn Reynolds are not satisfied. I am very satisfied. As I said below, I think Dan Rather - hobbled, humbled, and doubted - in place is a much better partisan outcome then his head on a pike and CBS with a fresh start. Graciously accept the apology, knowing that plenty of viewers just switiched to FOX or ABC or NBC.
Mary Mapes is toast. John Ellis is being kind to her, though I think I would hold out for seven figures for the book deal.
On another note, first Barnes' daughter (maybe) and then Mapes' dad publicly trashing their family. What is up with this? And this is not some polite "I don't agree with their position" talk. Very public, very tough. I guess I am naive, but I can't see doing that
9.17.2004
Let Dan Stay (Awhile)
Some very smart people are giving advice on the next steps to bring down Dan Rather and CBS. (See Jim Geraughty and Hugh Hewitt.) Hugh even calls for a Congressional review.
There is a different way...
Leave them in place. Think this through, guys and gals. If the Recall Dan movement is successful, CBS will takes its licks for sure, but soon the parties will be shuffled along and Leslie Stahl (say) becomes the new face of CBS. New face, fresh new start.
But what if Dan stays? With Dan in place, CBS will NEVER be taken for a serious news organization again. Dan lingers on - retirement postponed to allow him to recover face - meanwhile the most severely partisan of the major networks is hobbled for the foreseeable future.
So...fresh start or severely hobbled. Which do you prefer?
There is a different way...
Leave them in place. Think this through, guys and gals. If the Recall Dan movement is successful, CBS will takes its licks for sure, but soon the parties will be shuffled along and Leslie Stahl (say) becomes the new face of CBS. New face, fresh new start.
But what if Dan stays? With Dan in place, CBS will NEVER be taken for a serious news organization again. Dan lingers on - retirement postponed to allow him to recover face - meanwhile the most severely partisan of the major networks is hobbled for the foreseeable future.
So...fresh start or severely hobbled. Which do you prefer?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)