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...
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