I have some perspectives on this case:
Clearly, the Duke lacrosse players need to be punished for their idiotic behavior. And this is not just a single incident, if you read some of the articles written, they certainly have a history of "bad boy" behavior; several documented incidents have come to light, and several of the players (including one of the accused) are or were on probation for various naughty incidents. So is this a single case of the boys being boys - nah, it's a continuation of an ongoing pattern of rambunctious behavior by a team known for it. But why is THIS incident, in my humble opinion, bigger than it really needs to be...
Durham, NC, is a very racially charged and economically segregated area. On the one hand you have the rich, priviledged, student body of Duke. On the other hand you have the lower class, predominantly black, populace of Durham. Clearly a case of them vs us, rich vs poor, white vs black. So getting a conviction of some sort to "appease" the injured and insulted populace of the local area is critical for...
Mike Nifong's political aspirations. Yeah, Tilam, I know that he deferred all this talk until after the trial, but wow, what a heckuva martyr. "No, I won't use this as an opportunity to gain faction and further my own political ambitions, we'll wait". Wow. I can just see at the local barber shop..."Oh man, that Nifong guy, he's really focused on this case, he doesn't care about the election, I LIKE HIM, I"M GONNA VOTE FOR HIM." And if gets a conviction of the rich athletes on behalf of all the local black population, they are REALLY gonna vote for him. But in the end, you and I both know it comes down to...
The almighty dollar. Dollars for the stripper who is NOT the accuser, who has made no bones about "trying to parlay my fame into money for me and my kid". To the accuser, who is either lucky or good, the conviction of the criminal case is completely irrelevant, she's focusing on the civil case. THAT's where the money is...remember Michael Jackson? He beat the child molestation rap (against what I thought was pretty darn compelling evidence), but the REAL case was getting a civil settlement aside from putting him in jail. Kobe Bryant? Need I go on?
In other news around the world...
Somewhere in butt fuck Texas, 2 redneck teenagers beat and sodomized a mexican young man who they thought was trying to kiss a white girl. Looking at their mug shots, they look like the typical run down broke ass redneck skinhead punks. The young man is in the hospital and apparently has a 50/50 chance of living. They should send those 2 little boys to jail and let the big convicts show them what it means to be anal-retentive.
So how we're in the phase of analyzing why those air packs failed the 12 miners stuck in the shaft during the Sago mine blast in VA. If you read the accounts, there is a complete confluence of stupidity and lack of planning which caused 11 men to die. Mines need to be safe, but since they inherently are probably not, then we need to take measure to keep our miners alive. Give them working air packs. Teach them how to use them (there is some speculation that they were not properly trained). A reported methane leak was plugged up with glue - WHAT? But what does this indicate about our country? Welp, it simply states that we are lazy stupid morons with no thought to the future, and changes are only enacted after something horrific happens - we manage our safety by death these days. We assume it always safe until people die or get hurt. What is wrong with this picture? That mining company, Alaska Airlines, and as a frequent flyer, I'm not convinced that we haven't become lazy and un-diligent in our airline security AGAIN! It's never a problem, we don't think of safety, until people get hurt or die. I'll stop here...
In the WTF department...Chevron Corp.'s first-quarter profit soared 49 percent to $4 billion, joining the procession of U.S. oil companies to report colossal earnings as gas prices soar. Am I the only one who reads that sentence and says "are you f**kin kidding me?!" I paid $3.15 today per gallon. I want someone's head on a platter...
4.28.2006
4.27.2006
Out with A Whimper?
According to an article on ESPN, two Duke lacrosse players have admitted that there was a heated dispute and racial slurs were used. But they deny a rape occurred. But that's not the interesting part...
The father of the accused says she is considering dropping the case. If these kids are guilty, I hope she keeps going for the sake of all rape victims. But there are other ways for her to get "justice." It does seem to me that dropping the criminal case and pursuing a civil suit against DUKE is where the real money is. The facts, as we know them, certainly support a civil suit for her (and the 2nd stripper) and the last thing Duke needs is additional publicity, so they will cave like a card house.
Quite frankly, ASSUMING THERE WAS NO RAPE, a large monetary award from Duke acting in loco parentis is the best possible outcome. It seems to me that the lacrosse team's behavior merits some "punishment," but while punishing the players might give some short term benefits, punishing the university sends a broader message. Let's face it: Duke was forewarned about the teams behavior and while I am normally against "awards that send a message" this seems to be an appropriate case.
The father of the accused says she is considering dropping the case. If these kids are guilty, I hope she keeps going for the sake of all rape victims. But there are other ways for her to get "justice." It does seem to me that dropping the criminal case and pursuing a civil suit against DUKE is where the real money is. The facts, as we know them, certainly support a civil suit for her (and the 2nd stripper) and the last thing Duke needs is additional publicity, so they will cave like a card house.
Quite frankly, ASSUMING THERE WAS NO RAPE, a large monetary award from Duke acting in loco parentis is the best possible outcome. It seems to me that the lacrosse team's behavior merits some "punishment," but while punishing the players might give some short term benefits, punishing the university sends a broader message. Let's face it: Duke was forewarned about the teams behavior and while I am normally against "awards that send a message" this seems to be an appropriate case.
No, You Don't...
Dick Meyers at CBS has an insightful article on a key difference between conservatives and liberals, "We Know What's Best for You." The most insightful portion of it relates to "two types of liberty" - positive and negative. Quoting Meyers:
"Negative liberty is freedom "from" things; positive liberty is freedom "to do" certain things. ... Negative liberty means simply that one is free from interference by the state and others, that one has a zone of liberty and in that zone there can be no interference so long as another's liberty isn't constrained. What you do in the zone of negative liberty is your business. Positive liberty takes a dim view of simple negative liberty, arguing that it is meaningless unless a person has a real, positive freedom - the power "to do" vital things. Being left alone, in the world view, is meaningless if you don't have the power "to do" the important things, whatever they may be – get an education, earn a fair wage, live in an alienated society."
Meyers point is that America is the proto-typical negative liberty place which I agree with whole-heartedly. "Rugged individualism" is what sets us apart from, say, France and certainly from the tyrants in the Middle East and Third World. It always has and, I believe, always will. Further, Meyers says that, while both parties have aspects of negative and positive liberties in their platforms, Republicans tend more toward the negative and Democrats toward the positive. Meyers concludes that voters can dislike positive liberty (which he says smacks of "we know what's best for you") and can sense it a mile away. And that does not bode well for the Democrats.
Paul Mirengoff of Powerline is not so sure that voters will "consistently reject" this approach. Paul is absolutely right, but it important to understand when the voters won't. I posit that voters will accept the "we know what's best for you" approach under two condition. The first is a time on emergency, such as war (Iraq, GWOT) or national disaster (Katrina). The second is when the moral foundations become so obvious as to require remedial action (the civil rights movement). The problem the Democrats face is they are offering no leadership on either of these issues. The problem the Republicans face is that faced with time of emergencies, they have botched it. (Query, if Congressional Republican would have shown more domestic leadership on spending, Social Security and taxes, would President Bush's numbers be as low. I say no.) Paul may be right that voters may swing back to the Democrats and thus accept the Dems approach, but it would be because, given the chance, Republicans have screwed up.
"Negative liberty is freedom "from" things; positive liberty is freedom "to do" certain things. ... Negative liberty means simply that one is free from interference by the state and others, that one has a zone of liberty and in that zone there can be no interference so long as another's liberty isn't constrained. What you do in the zone of negative liberty is your business. Positive liberty takes a dim view of simple negative liberty, arguing that it is meaningless unless a person has a real, positive freedom - the power "to do" vital things. Being left alone, in the world view, is meaningless if you don't have the power "to do" the important things, whatever they may be – get an education, earn a fair wage, live in an alienated society."
Meyers point is that America is the proto-typical negative liberty place which I agree with whole-heartedly. "Rugged individualism" is what sets us apart from, say, France and certainly from the tyrants in the Middle East and Third World. It always has and, I believe, always will. Further, Meyers says that, while both parties have aspects of negative and positive liberties in their platforms, Republicans tend more toward the negative and Democrats toward the positive. Meyers concludes that voters can dislike positive liberty (which he says smacks of "we know what's best for you") and can sense it a mile away. And that does not bode well for the Democrats.
Paul Mirengoff of Powerline is not so sure that voters will "consistently reject" this approach. Paul is absolutely right, but it important to understand when the voters won't. I posit that voters will accept the "we know what's best for you" approach under two condition. The first is a time on emergency, such as war (Iraq, GWOT) or national disaster (Katrina). The second is when the moral foundations become so obvious as to require remedial action (the civil rights movement). The problem the Democrats face is they are offering no leadership on either of these issues. The problem the Republicans face is that faced with time of emergencies, they have botched it. (Query, if Congressional Republican would have shown more domestic leadership on spending, Social Security and taxes, would President Bush's numbers be as low. I say no.) Paul may be right that voters may swing back to the Democrats and thus accept the Dems approach, but it would be because, given the chance, Republicans have screwed up.
4.24.2006
More Duke Lax
Newsweek has a lengthy article which brings everyone up to date on what is going on at Duke. Duke New Sense continues to give news from the front, so to speak. Of course, LaShawn Barber is taking more than a passing interest.
There are two interesting things going on. First, the second stripper is more "active." She is speaking to the media and seems to be changing her story slightly. Note that she does not say that rape definitely occurred, but that it could have. It is not clear she is making wholesale changes, but her tune is different. It is also clear she is motivated by money. Unlike many, I will not condemn her at all, so long as the truth comes forth. If that happens, I cannot fault her for trying to parley her 15 minutes into some green for her and her daughter.
The other thing is that the next set of DNA results will not be in until mid-May (after the election for DA). Reports until now indicated that those results were due in this week, though that may have been wishful thinking by the defense.
This is a sorry situation for all. Ann Coulter, who I think is funny like liberals think Al Franken is funny, wrote a piece on this saying what goes through most peoples minds: "Lay Down with Strippers, Wake Up with Pleas." I don't normally agree with Ann's writing, but here's a money quote:
"You can severely reduce your chances of having a false accusation of rape leveled against you if you don't hire strange women to come to your house and take their clothes off for money.
"Also, you can severely reduce your chances of being raped if you do not go to strange men's houses and take your clothes off for money. (Does anyone else detect a common thread here?)"
That seems about right.
There are two interesting things going on. First, the second stripper is more "active." She is speaking to the media and seems to be changing her story slightly. Note that she does not say that rape definitely occurred, but that it could have. It is not clear she is making wholesale changes, but her tune is different. It is also clear she is motivated by money. Unlike many, I will not condemn her at all, so long as the truth comes forth. If that happens, I cannot fault her for trying to parley her 15 minutes into some green for her and her daughter.
The other thing is that the next set of DNA results will not be in until mid-May (after the election for DA). Reports until now indicated that those results were due in this week, though that may have been wishful thinking by the defense.
This is a sorry situation for all. Ann Coulter, who I think is funny like liberals think Al Franken is funny, wrote a piece on this saying what goes through most peoples minds: "Lay Down with Strippers, Wake Up with Pleas." I don't normally agree with Ann's writing, but here's a money quote:
"You can severely reduce your chances of having a false accusation of rape leveled against you if you don't hire strange women to come to your house and take their clothes off for money.
"Also, you can severely reduce your chances of being raped if you do not go to strange men's houses and take your clothes off for money. (Does anyone else detect a common thread here?)"
That seems about right.
4.18.2006
Duke Lax Players Arrested
Two Lacrosse players have been arrested and charged with rape, assault and kidnapping. They were arrested based on a grand jury indictment. This may seem significant, but it isn't. As one of the lawyers stated: "you can indict a ham sandwich." Quoting from one of LaShawn Barber's commenters:
"The DA had no obligation to present any exculpatory evidence to the grand jury. He could have presented only the following: (1) the alleged victim's testimony that she was raped and her identification of her attackers and (2) the hospital nurse's testimony that the alleged victim's injuries were consistent with rape. These facts would be sufficient for an indictment, which is all the Nifong needs for his re-election campaign.
"At trial, however, the jury will have the following exculpatory and impeachment evidence to consider: (1) the absence of any DNA match, (2) photographs of the alleged victim showing bruises before the alleged attack, (3) various inconsistencies in her story, and (4) evidence of the alleged victim's bad character for honesty and truthfulness (i.e., her prior criminal record). It is highly unlikely in my opinion as a lawyer for the past 25 years that based on this evidence a jury would find guilty beyond a reasonable doubt."
This is true: anyone willing to perjure themselves can get someone arrested. But PROVING the case is a completely different matter. Now that the case has two defendants, rather than the "Duke Lacrosse team", we will see more and more focus on the what, where and whos of the case.
Stay tuned.
"The DA had no obligation to present any exculpatory evidence to the grand jury. He could have presented only the following: (1) the alleged victim's testimony that she was raped and her identification of her attackers and (2) the hospital nurse's testimony that the alleged victim's injuries were consistent with rape. These facts would be sufficient for an indictment, which is all the Nifong needs for his re-election campaign.
"At trial, however, the jury will have the following exculpatory and impeachment evidence to consider: (1) the absence of any DNA match, (2) photographs of the alleged victim showing bruises before the alleged attack, (3) various inconsistencies in her story, and (4) evidence of the alleged victim's bad character for honesty and truthfulness (i.e., her prior criminal record). It is highly unlikely in my opinion as a lawyer for the past 25 years that based on this evidence a jury would find guilty beyond a reasonable doubt."
This is true: anyone willing to perjure themselves can get someone arrested. But PROVING the case is a completely different matter. Now that the case has two defendants, rather than the "Duke Lacrosse team", we will see more and more focus on the what, where and whos of the case.
Stay tuned.
4.11.2006
Doesn't pass the "WTF Test"
Okay, so there is no current DNA evidence that implicates any of the Duke Lacrosse players. So are we seeing the Tawana Brawley case all over again? Things that make you go "Hmmm"...
What is there to gain by accusing the players of this? What does the stripper hope to get out of this deal, a free out of court settlement?
Tilam is the legal expert, but is there a possiblity that there will be civil recriminations against the accuser?
The Prosecutor is continuing on...wonder what he knows that we don't? Or suspects? Is he running for local office and needs the black vote?
Where do we go from here? A coach's reputation tarnished (possibly irrevocably), a team's season on suspension, a FURTHER divided community (after what seems to be a false reverse racial accusation). Blarg...
Let's face it, I have been close to college athletics in my previous years, and they are a bunch of spoiled punks with a sense of impunity and entitlement. They routinely do stupid and wrong things, believing they are above the law because they are high profile athletes and that the university will protect them. But let's look here more closely. Does this show the Duke LAX players to be saints? Nope. Are they guilty of some/many of the other supposed transgressions? Probably. But are they guilty HERE? It sure doesn't seem so.
What is taking Brett Favruh so long to decide? "waiting and seeing if the Pack will get him good players" apparently. Hmm, I'm not so sure that's such a good thing with the new coach - "hey, if you get good players, I'll come back and play, but if not, well, I'll just play golf". BS man. Set a line in the sand, decide by "x" date, and be done with it.
Apple - what an incredibly shitty organization. I finally purchased an iPod Nano, and while I LOVE it and it works great, Apple's policy on peripherals is even worse than Dell's, a company whom I despise with a heightened passion. Included with the iPod: iPod, earphones, computer based charger, and software. No wall charger. NOTHING else. If you want the iPod to work with speakers, or anything else other than your ears, you have to spend (at least) $30 for "accessories". Wall charger? $30. You can purchase great speakers, but to hook the iPod up to them you need to purchase a base stand ($40). It is INCREDIBLE how much you have to actually purchase to get your iPod entertainment system. I can see some of it, but on the whole, iPod is screwing the customer with all this ancillary bullshit purchase requirements.
Josh Boone declared himself eligible for the NBA draft but didn't hire an agent - smart move. Spend another year in school and prove yourself worthy of playing in the NBA by LEADING (read: showing up for games and performing) your team to (at least) the Final Four. We'll see you back in UCONN next year when you come to the realization that your draft status sux based on what EVERYONE saw to be a poor showing in the NCAA's.
Luc Robataille is retiring after this hockey season. Another great guy leaving a great sport - the highest scoring left wing in NHL history is someone we'll miss.
What is there to gain by accusing the players of this? What does the stripper hope to get out of this deal, a free out of court settlement?
Tilam is the legal expert, but is there a possiblity that there will be civil recriminations against the accuser?
The Prosecutor is continuing on...wonder what he knows that we don't? Or suspects? Is he running for local office and needs the black vote?
Where do we go from here? A coach's reputation tarnished (possibly irrevocably), a team's season on suspension, a FURTHER divided community (after what seems to be a false reverse racial accusation). Blarg...
Let's face it, I have been close to college athletics in my previous years, and they are a bunch of spoiled punks with a sense of impunity and entitlement. They routinely do stupid and wrong things, believing they are above the law because they are high profile athletes and that the university will protect them. But let's look here more closely. Does this show the Duke LAX players to be saints? Nope. Are they guilty of some/many of the other supposed transgressions? Probably. But are they guilty HERE? It sure doesn't seem so.
What is taking Brett Favruh so long to decide? "waiting and seeing if the Pack will get him good players" apparently. Hmm, I'm not so sure that's such a good thing with the new coach - "hey, if you get good players, I'll come back and play, but if not, well, I'll just play golf". BS man. Set a line in the sand, decide by "x" date, and be done with it.
Apple - what an incredibly shitty organization. I finally purchased an iPod Nano, and while I LOVE it and it works great, Apple's policy on peripherals is even worse than Dell's, a company whom I despise with a heightened passion. Included with the iPod: iPod, earphones, computer based charger, and software. No wall charger. NOTHING else. If you want the iPod to work with speakers, or anything else other than your ears, you have to spend (at least) $30 for "accessories". Wall charger? $30. You can purchase great speakers, but to hook the iPod up to them you need to purchase a base stand ($40). It is INCREDIBLE how much you have to actually purchase to get your iPod entertainment system. I can see some of it, but on the whole, iPod is screwing the customer with all this ancillary bullshit purchase requirements.
Josh Boone declared himself eligible for the NBA draft but didn't hire an agent - smart move. Spend another year in school and prove yourself worthy of playing in the NBA by LEADING (read: showing up for games and performing) your team to (at least) the Final Four. We'll see you back in UCONN next year when you come to the realization that your draft status sux based on what EVERYONE saw to be a poor showing in the NCAA's.
Luc Robataille is retiring after this hockey season. Another great guy leaving a great sport - the highest scoring left wing in NHL history is someone we'll miss.
4.10.2006
Surprise, Surprise
Sports Illustrated is reporting that the DNA tests on the Duke Lax players have come back negative. Key bit of information:
"[T]he the report indicated authorities took DNA samples from all over the alleged victim's body, including under her fingernails, and from her possessions, such as her cell phone and her clothes."
The prosecutor has indicated he will continue...damn the evidence. He might want to consider walking it back...
"[T]he the report indicated authorities took DNA samples from all over the alleged victim's body, including under her fingernails, and from her possessions, such as her cell phone and her clothes."
The prosecutor has indicated he will continue...damn the evidence. He might want to consider walking it back...
Monday Morning Update
Ahhhh. The Masters. One of the few times Mrs. Tilam becomes a sports widow. An enjoyable ending, which was very much in doubt until the final few holes. And, as I predicted, Lefty won. He is now half way to a Tiger Slam and looked quite comfortable doing it. Old Phil would have done something extraordinarily stupid to miss his chance, but he was pretty poised and confident. The chip on 15 sealed it for him and was a shot that would have went into the water five years ago.
My heart was pulling for Fred Couples. He was striking the ball really well but could not putt worth a damn. (Tiger and Vijay seemed to suffer the same problem.) After the birdie on 13 out of the shit, I thought he had regained his confidence, but I guess not. Great effort.
Duke Lacrosse. While the results are not in, it is starting to look like a textbook case of racism, but not the one originally put forth. Can you say Tawana Brawley? If her story turns out to be fake, I do hope justice is served. Keep up with this story by visiting Duke New Sense.
Finally, Anne Benson has withdrawn her divorce petition. It seemed all those guys outside her door were not an attentive landscaping company, but the grounds crew from the Orioles.
My heart was pulling for Fred Couples. He was striking the ball really well but could not putt worth a damn. (Tiger and Vijay seemed to suffer the same problem.) After the birdie on 13 out of the shit, I thought he had regained his confidence, but I guess not. Great effort.
Duke Lacrosse. While the results are not in, it is starting to look like a textbook case of racism, but not the one originally put forth. Can you say Tawana Brawley? If her story turns out to be fake, I do hope justice is served. Keep up with this story by visiting Duke New Sense.
Finally, Anne Benson has withdrawn her divorce petition. It seemed all those guys outside her door were not an attentive landscaping company, but the grounds crew from the Orioles.
4.07.2006
Is Being Boorish Illegal?
One story I have been watching with great interest is the Duke Lacrosse controversy/crime. The place to get all the updates is Duke New Sense. The reason I have not commented is that anything said is pre-mature. We should know quickly whether there was a rape or not. I will offer two general comments though:
1. Boorish behavior will be punished. The fact is that the Lacrosse program has had a number of boorish and criminal or nearly so incidents. This will lead to a knee jerk reaction of guilt, regardless of the outcome. The players may not have raped the girl, but no one doubts that it was a possibility. Why? Because of their past.
2. Stonewalling isn't stonewalling when you are innocent. Much of the criticism stems from the initial reaction of the players to band together and "stonewall." Well, what if the allegations are pure fiction? That isn't stonewalling to me. Will the critics apologize? No. Will the coach get his job back? No. Is this fair? Well, read point #1. Their past behavior has led to this, even if they are innocent.
More later...
1. Boorish behavior will be punished. The fact is that the Lacrosse program has had a number of boorish and criminal or nearly so incidents. This will lead to a knee jerk reaction of guilt, regardless of the outcome. The players may not have raped the girl, but no one doubts that it was a possibility. Why? Because of their past.
2. Stonewalling isn't stonewalling when you are innocent. Much of the criticism stems from the initial reaction of the players to band together and "stonewall." Well, what if the allegations are pure fiction? That isn't stonewalling to me. Will the critics apologize? No. Will the coach get his job back? No. Is this fair? Well, read point #1. Their past behavior has led to this, even if they are innocent.
More later...
4.05.2006
Round the Horn Sports Thoughts
Zzzzzzz...huh? The Final Four is over. My God. I can not remember a more boring Final Four. The matches were not close and there was none of the excitement that the earlier rounds generated. GMU's Cinderella smashed the glass slipper, slipped on the shards and got them stuck in her ass. And, after all that, the final game was a quick blowout.
Blech!!!!
Anna Benson. Okay, I spent too much time on her. Will we never get past our fascination with $20 hookers?
Masters week. Yum. Golf Digest had a wonderful article on Jack's win in 1986. Read it. So who is going to win it this year? My favorite is Lefty. He is playing well and I trust he'll keep his head on straight. Tiger is dealing with his Dad's health and, whether you like Earl or think he is a total tool, Tiger is very close to his Dad and it is effecting his concentration. (Of course, he could go our and lap the field in Earl's honor.) Golf Digest says the numbers say "Vijay", but the Masters has never been about the numbers. It is about passion for golf and a will to win. I would like to see Adam Scott take it.
With college basketball over and baseball not yet interesting it is a peaceful time for me. I was supposed to go golfing today, but it is snowing right now. No, really, it is snowing.
Got spam announcing a book called the "Dark Lover." The author is described as a "Best Selling author of erotic paranormal romance." "Erotic paranormal?" I think there is a line there, but since I like erotic and I like paranormal, I might give this a try. (Is this sports? Yes, sex is sport.)
Steroids. This is fast becoming a problem. Not just in the juice. This is becoming a PR nightmare for the MLB. As Bonds approached Hank Aaron's record, you would have thought it was a great opportunity to promote the sport. Think again. If Rose is not HOF eligible for gambling and lying, should Bonds be eligible for getting juiced and lying? I would rather see Rose in then Bonds.
On the bright side, a new book by Baseball Prospectus talks about (among other things) Clutch Hitters. #1? Mark Grace. Hmmmm.
Congrats to the Lady Turtles. Now that was an exciting Final.
Adios!
Blech!!!!
Anna Benson. Okay, I spent too much time on her. Will we never get past our fascination with $20 hookers?
Masters week. Yum. Golf Digest had a wonderful article on Jack's win in 1986. Read it. So who is going to win it this year? My favorite is Lefty. He is playing well and I trust he'll keep his head on straight. Tiger is dealing with his Dad's health and, whether you like Earl or think he is a total tool, Tiger is very close to his Dad and it is effecting his concentration. (Of course, he could go our and lap the field in Earl's honor.) Golf Digest says the numbers say "Vijay", but the Masters has never been about the numbers. It is about passion for golf and a will to win. I would like to see Adam Scott take it.
With college basketball over and baseball not yet interesting it is a peaceful time for me. I was supposed to go golfing today, but it is snowing right now. No, really, it is snowing.
Got spam announcing a book called the "Dark Lover." The author is described as a "Best Selling author of erotic paranormal romance." "Erotic paranormal?" I think there is a line there, but since I like erotic and I like paranormal, I might give this a try. (Is this sports? Yes, sex is sport.)
Steroids. This is fast becoming a problem. Not just in the juice. This is becoming a PR nightmare for the MLB. As Bonds approached Hank Aaron's record, you would have thought it was a great opportunity to promote the sport. Think again. If Rose is not HOF eligible for gambling and lying, should Bonds be eligible for getting juiced and lying? I would rather see Rose in then Bonds.
On the bright side, a new book by Baseball Prospectus talks about (among other things) Clutch Hitters. #1? Mark Grace. Hmmmm.
Congrats to the Lady Turtles. Now that was an exciting Final.
Adios!
4.03.2006
Time to yap about the wimmen
Will Anna Benson ever go away? Unfortunately, our favorite ex-stripper can't put something in her mouth enough to keep it shut. But now, she's divorcinga Kris, apparently for cheating. And we KNOW what she promised if she ever caught him cheating. The $64,000 question is "if he REALLY cheated on her, does she still sleep with the Mets, or the Orioles?". Then again, based on their performance last year, I'd go with the Mets, since the Orioles can't hit a hole to save their life, even one THAT wide open...
Michelle Wie - someone tell her there's a difference between "playing" and "winning". Faced with an up & down to force a playoff with Karrie Webb, she chose the low percentage shot and CHIPPED to the hole instead of putting. Someone hit her caddie with the CLUE HAMMER. Remember Michelle, winning doesn't have to be pretty, it's STILL a win. Play the right shot next time.
However, kudos to Karrie Webb, it's nice to see her back in the winner's circle again.
Rory Sabbatini proved once again to us volunteer marshalls (at tour events) that he's one of the true, genuine, ASSHOLES of the game. After hitting a shot at the BellSouth classic last week, he was informed that the ball was OB. FOUR f-bombs later he took the walk of shame back to the tee to replay his shot with the penalty. Now, I understand how frustrating it is to hit one OB (Tilam does it routinely when we play, so I know the player's reaction), and I also understand that out of courtesy he could have been informed before he walked all that way, but that doesn't excuse profanity and insults. He ranks up there on my hate list with Olazabal. And this isn't the first time that Rory has done this...
Tiger at Augusta? Hmmm, the safe bet. But I'm going to predict Zach Johnson...
Michelle Wie - someone tell her there's a difference between "playing" and "winning". Faced with an up & down to force a playoff with Karrie Webb, she chose the low percentage shot and CHIPPED to the hole instead of putting. Someone hit her caddie with the CLUE HAMMER. Remember Michelle, winning doesn't have to be pretty, it's STILL a win. Play the right shot next time.
However, kudos to Karrie Webb, it's nice to see her back in the winner's circle again.
Rory Sabbatini proved once again to us volunteer marshalls (at tour events) that he's one of the true, genuine, ASSHOLES of the game. After hitting a shot at the BellSouth classic last week, he was informed that the ball was OB. FOUR f-bombs later he took the walk of shame back to the tee to replay his shot with the penalty. Now, I understand how frustrating it is to hit one OB (Tilam does it routinely when we play, so I know the player's reaction), and I also understand that out of courtesy he could have been informed before he walked all that way, but that doesn't excuse profanity and insults. He ranks up there on my hate list with Olazabal. And this isn't the first time that Rory has done this...
Tiger at Augusta? Hmmm, the safe bet. But I'm going to predict Zach Johnson...
3.28.2006
The Number 1s are Done
Wow. Not a single number 1 seed survived this past weekend. But while my Bracket is in a shambles, there was some might good basketball being played. Some comments.
Duke & Gonzaga. As you know from my picks, I had Duke losing to LSU and Gonzaga missing the Elite 8 also. Neither of these games were particularly surprising. Each team suffered from the same vulnerability: too much reliance on one or two players. I will say that Sheldon Williams was wonderful to watch. He almost carried that whole team to victory.
UConn, on the other hand, simply did not want to win. Statistically, they played well, but GMU played like they really wanted to go to the Final Four. It is hard to pin down the reason for UConn's lack of heart, but Josh Boone is a good start. His poor play throughout the tournament killed UConn. Not simply in the missed lay-ups and FT, but in the fact that he was simply not an option for Marcus Williams. Jim Calhoun would have been better off sitting Boone and keeping Jeff Adrien in the whole second half.
Despite all that, UConn came within 1/2 inch of winning.
Duke and Gonzaga lost, but UConn got what they deserved.
Duke & Gonzaga. As you know from my picks, I had Duke losing to LSU and Gonzaga missing the Elite 8 also. Neither of these games were particularly surprising. Each team suffered from the same vulnerability: too much reliance on one or two players. I will say that Sheldon Williams was wonderful to watch. He almost carried that whole team to victory.
UConn, on the other hand, simply did not want to win. Statistically, they played well, but GMU played like they really wanted to go to the Final Four. It is hard to pin down the reason for UConn's lack of heart, but Josh Boone is a good start. His poor play throughout the tournament killed UConn. Not simply in the missed lay-ups and FT, but in the fact that he was simply not an option for Marcus Williams. Jim Calhoun would have been better off sitting Boone and keeping Jeff Adrien in the whole second half.
Despite all that, UConn came within 1/2 inch of winning.
Duke and Gonzaga lost, but UConn got what they deserved.
3.27.2006
Tastes like Chicken
Time to eat crow. I haven't checked the bet and picks, but I have the feeling that I am mathematically eliminated from our little contest. Looks like Tilam won't have to pay to get this ass whooped on the golf course, it'll be my treat. Grats to him!
Impressions of the weekend:
"come on honey, it'll only be the second time this month!" - oh wait, wrong impression.
Parity (to use Tilam's word). More talent is being spread out among colleges. Less fear of the "big boys". Quality coaching at the mid-level is now getting high quality players, and it's showing. I must concur with Tilam, at this point, Cinderella is dead and gone - call George Mason a cinderella if you want, but 4 games in a row? Nah!
Impressions of the weekend:
"come on honey, it'll only be the second time this month!" - oh wait, wrong impression.
Parity (to use Tilam's word). More talent is being spread out among colleges. Less fear of the "big boys". Quality coaching at the mid-level is now getting high quality players, and it's showing. I must concur with Tilam, at this point, Cinderella is dead and gone - call George Mason a cinderella if you want, but 4 games in a row? Nah!
3.22.2006
Joga Bonito
"Play Beautiful"
Nike has a new series of ads celebrating World Cup 2006 and launching their new line of soccer shoes. Normally, I don't give this marketing thing a second thought, but they have a series of videos hosted by Eric Cantona. Most impressive is the Brazilian Ping Pong with Ronaldinho. Impressive in its originality, but doubtful that it actually happened. While Ronaldinho swears he did it, I find it highly improbable. I will say that if anyone in the world could, Ronaldinho could - his foot skills are amazing.
My favorite is 4-4-2 or 1-1-8? Anyone who loves the "beautiful game" will immediately love that point of view. There is some impressive play (Thierry Henry's back heel goal is my favorite), though with Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Henry and Wayne Rooney, you think they could fill several reels of highlight films.
Check it out...
TILAM UPDATE: It did occur to me that anyone who know Cantona's history will find it surprising he is advocating the "beautiful game." But I guess drop kicking SPECTATORS is ok. Still, as regular readers know, I prefer to remember the athlete for the totality of his/her career, and not based on one incident. Long live King Eric.
Nike has a new series of ads celebrating World Cup 2006 and launching their new line of soccer shoes. Normally, I don't give this marketing thing a second thought, but they have a series of videos hosted by Eric Cantona. Most impressive is the Brazilian Ping Pong with Ronaldinho. Impressive in its originality, but doubtful that it actually happened. While Ronaldinho swears he did it, I find it highly improbable. I will say that if anyone in the world could, Ronaldinho could - his foot skills are amazing.
My favorite is 4-4-2 or 1-1-8? Anyone who loves the "beautiful game" will immediately love that point of view. There is some impressive play (Thierry Henry's back heel goal is my favorite), though with Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Henry and Wayne Rooney, you think they could fill several reels of highlight films.
Check it out...
TILAM UPDATE: It did occur to me that anyone who know Cantona's history will find it surprising he is advocating the "beautiful game." But I guess drop kicking SPECTATORS is ok. Still, as regular readers know, I prefer to remember the athlete for the totality of his/her career, and not based on one incident. Long live King Eric.
3.21.2006
Up for Air
First things first:
KUDO's to Tilam for calling the Atlanta & Minneapolis regions SPOT ON! I guess after successful therapy for surfing the web for animal porn he's found a new hobby, and his research into college hoops is showing benefits. Good Job Tilam!
Big games in the Tilam-Thew challenge: LSU/Duke, Fla/G'Town (I gotta root for G'Town since Tilam has UF and I'm outta this one).
Now, the pain...
I rode the wave of the Orangemen after the Big East tournament. McNamara seemed hot, the team seemed relaxed, and BAM, they ran into LSU. Okay, I'm a dumbass.
Not since Hersey Hawkins strode the sidelines for the Braves has Bradley made a significant splash. If I didn't have Memphis beating them, I'd root big time.
I bailed on Florida as over-rated and bet on Oklahoma, which was backwards. The OSU loss to Georgetown was a huge surprise, and it wasn't close, it was a bit of a spanking.
When I was revived, I actually hopped on the "the selection committee got it right" bandwagon with George Mason. Too much confidence in Roy Williams' coaching at UNC, I guess.
I have 11 of the Sweet Sixteen, but I'm definitely shut out of 2 of the Elite Eight games. However, I too, have all my Final Four teams still in.
On a good note, I am third in the office pool...
TILAM COMMENT: Thank you for the kudos, but that won't prevent me from a small correction. 'Cuse may have run into LSU...in the locker room, but not on the court. They got wasted by A&M.
KUDO's to Tilam for calling the Atlanta & Minneapolis regions SPOT ON! I guess after successful therapy for surfing the web for animal porn he's found a new hobby, and his research into college hoops is showing benefits. Good Job Tilam!
Big games in the Tilam-Thew challenge: LSU/Duke, Fla/G'Town (I gotta root for G'Town since Tilam has UF and I'm outta this one).
Now, the pain...
I rode the wave of the Orangemen after the Big East tournament. McNamara seemed hot, the team seemed relaxed, and BAM, they ran into LSU. Okay, I'm a dumbass.
Not since Hersey Hawkins strode the sidelines for the Braves has Bradley made a significant splash. If I didn't have Memphis beating them, I'd root big time.
I bailed on Florida as over-rated and bet on Oklahoma, which was backwards. The OSU loss to Georgetown was a huge surprise, and it wasn't close, it was a bit of a spanking.
When I was revived, I actually hopped on the "the selection committee got it right" bandwagon with George Mason. Too much confidence in Roy Williams' coaching at UNC, I guess.
I have 11 of the Sweet Sixteen, but I'm definitely shut out of 2 of the Elite Eight games. However, I too, have all my Final Four teams still in.
On a good note, I am third in the office pool...
TILAM COMMENT: Thank you for the kudos, but that won't prevent me from a small correction. 'Cuse may have run into LSU...in the locker room, but not on the court. They got wasted by A&M.
3.20.2006
UConn Woes
Let's compare two Sweet 16 teams:
Team 1: Scored a combined 159 points, shot 54% from the field and 41% from 3 point range.
Team 2: Scored a combined 144 points, shot 48% from the field and 35% from 3 point range.
The media laments on how Team 1 has played poorly and Team 2 rolls through the Bracket. Could it be that Team 1's opponents have stepped it up and Team 2's have not?
The coverage of the NCAA's always makes me laugh because you cannot compare UConn's (Team 1) games with Duke's (Team 2). There was no doubt UConn was very sloppy against Albany, but give the Great Danes credit. Kentucky played arguably their best game of the year and shot 50% from 3 point land (from NBA 3 point land it seemed) in the second half.
My one gripe on UConn is that they have been real tentative on the boards - only 6 blocks in two games. They need to OWN the boards against Washington.
Team 1: Scored a combined 159 points, shot 54% from the field and 41% from 3 point range.
Team 2: Scored a combined 144 points, shot 48% from the field and 35% from 3 point range.
The media laments on how Team 1 has played poorly and Team 2 rolls through the Bracket. Could it be that Team 1's opponents have stepped it up and Team 2's have not?
The coverage of the NCAA's always makes me laugh because you cannot compare UConn's (Team 1) games with Duke's (Team 2). There was no doubt UConn was very sloppy against Albany, but give the Great Danes credit. Kentucky played arguably their best game of the year and shot 50% from 3 point land (from NBA 3 point land it seemed) in the second half.
My one gripe on UConn is that they have been real tentative on the boards - only 6 blocks in two games. They need to OWN the boards against Washington.
Good Calls and Air Balls
The reason I did not post until after the dust settles on the Sweet 16 is that there is a tendency to use one game as the barometer of the Tournament. Of course you can't. But there are some observations that deserved to be made:
Parity. Parity. Parity. Maybe it's the lure of the NBA on the Top BCS players (and HS seniors who would otherwise go to a BCS school), but Cinderella has just been killed. She is a myth. No one can take a "mid-major" program for granted.
Four of the Sweet 16 team are Big East, two each from ACC (thank got they stole BC from the BEast!), Pac10, SEC and Missouri Valley. One from CUSA, Big 12, WCC and Colonial. Zero from the Big 10.
Air Ball: I have got to apologize to the Pac 10. I have disrespected them all year and UCLA and Washington both looked like they deserve to be in the Sweet 16. Much apologies. Same can be said for Memphis and Gonzaga also, but, so far, each has performed according to my expectations.
Good Call: I said below: "UNC and Kansas seem to be favorite picks for deep runs. Not gonna happen." I will say I had UNC going further out of a "weak side" bracket, but their loss is no surprise here.
Sort of Good Call: I have 12 out of the Sweet 16. Missed the Bradley and George Mason runs, but called Wichita State. I placed too much faith in Marquette (and Steve "The Bust" Novak) and missed the coin toss that was the Illinois and Washington game. Unfortunately, I can only get a max of 6 of the Elite 8, but my Final Four are all still alive.
Parity. Parity. Parity. Maybe it's the lure of the NBA on the Top BCS players (and HS seniors who would otherwise go to a BCS school), but Cinderella has just been killed. She is a myth. No one can take a "mid-major" program for granted.
Four of the Sweet 16 team are Big East, two each from ACC (thank got they stole BC from the BEast!), Pac10, SEC and Missouri Valley. One from CUSA, Big 12, WCC and Colonial. Zero from the Big 10.
Air Ball: I have got to apologize to the Pac 10. I have disrespected them all year and UCLA and Washington both looked like they deserve to be in the Sweet 16. Much apologies. Same can be said for Memphis and Gonzaga also, but, so far, each has performed according to my expectations.
Good Call: I said below: "UNC and Kansas seem to be favorite picks for deep runs. Not gonna happen." I will say I had UNC going further out of a "weak side" bracket, but their loss is no surprise here.
Sort of Good Call: I have 12 out of the Sweet 16. Missed the Bradley and George Mason runs, but called Wichita State. I placed too much faith in Marquette (and Steve "The Bust" Novak) and missed the coin toss that was the Illinois and Washington game. Unfortunately, I can only get a max of 6 of the Elite 8, but my Final Four are all still alive.
3.14.2006
The gauntlet thrown
Okay, game on!
Sweet Sixteen:
Atlanta: Duke / Syracuse / West Virginia / Texas
Oakland: Memphis / Pittsburgh / Gonzaga / UCLA
DC: UCONN / Washington / North Carolina / Wichita State
Minneapolis: Villanova / Boston College / Oklahoma / Ohio State
Elite Eight:
Atlanta: Duke / Texas
Oakland: Memphis / Gonzaga
DC: UCONN / North Carolina
Minny: Villanova / Ohio State
Final Four:
Duke / Gonzaga / UCONN / Villanova
Final Game:
UCONN over Duke
Sweet Sixteen:
Atlanta: Duke / Syracuse / West Virginia / Texas
Oakland: Memphis / Pittsburgh / Gonzaga / UCLA
DC: UCONN / Washington / North Carolina / Wichita State
Minneapolis: Villanova / Boston College / Oklahoma / Ohio State
Elite Eight:
Atlanta: Duke / Texas
Oakland: Memphis / Gonzaga
DC: UCONN / North Carolina
Minny: Villanova / Ohio State
Final Four:
Duke / Gonzaga / UCONN / Villanova
Final Game:
UCONN over Duke
I'll Take That Bet..
You all have seen my Sweet 16, Elite 8, Final 4, Final 2 and Champ.
I will challenge Thew with a round of golf on the line.
I showed you mine, now show me yours...
I will challenge Thew with a round of golf on the line.
I showed you mine, now show me yours...
Who's running the show?!
Most (actually, the Ivory Soap ratio - 99 44/100ths) of you do not know Tilam in Real Life like I do (count your blessings). To those lucky ignorant people out there, I put this little tidbit forth - he is a well-educated, occasionally well-opinionated, high ranking individual in a budding company. He has a track record of success and should continue this trend...except for one thing:
Who the heck is running the show? Tilam's opinions are many and often, he blogs seemingly without coming up for air, when does he have time to run his organization? Apparently the company is able to run itself, because the big dude is off perusing the NC2A bracketology boards and blogging with abandon. Scary... By the way, Gonzaga WILL prevail, I believe that Adam Morrison is too good and really has his game together (see Bird, Larry, with Indiana State in 1979), and Gonzaga will make the Final Four.
Me? I'm a cog, nay the broken spoke, in the corporate wheel. I watch hockey, play golf, internet MMORPG (World of Warcraft), and try incessantly to make Mrs Thew perform illicit acts. Oh, and rassle with our 130 lb great dane for alpha male status (don't fret, I will not be seen at "downonthefarm.com" anytime soon). Oh, and the "play golf" part causes Tilam much consternation, since it has been nigh 10 years since he's beaten me at golf. Or almost that amount of time...
But okay, I'll take a few minutes to blog on the tourney:
Andy Katz says that UCONN will win if Marcus Williams plays like the best point guard in the nation. Best POINT GUARD! Are you listening Marcus? UCONN needs a point guard, not another scorer. We'll see if he gets the message.
And since TILAM will inevitably take a returning pot shot at me, LET'S GET READY FOR A TOURNAMENT BET! That's right readers, to make things interesting, I will propose that the ignoramus challenge the pundit. Thew vs. Tilam (you decide who is who)! Typical scoring - points for each correct pick, 1 for R1, 2 for R2, 4 for R3, and so on. I will bet a round of golf at my local club if Tilam responds in kind. If Tilam agrees, we'll figure out a way to track our picks and we'll keep you posted, since I know you all read this with the utmost interest. Tilam, you game?
On to more heady topics:
Some of you might seem familiar with Bill Engvall and his hilarious work. His catch phrase has become my mantra on life - "I HATE STUPID PEOPLE". This guy is my Dalai Lama. Just today I'm in line getting lunch, and the big sign says "CASH ONLY". Well this moron in front of me whips out his debit care - WTF, can you not read?! And he give the poor cashier a dirty look when she explains it to him. OMGz, it's incredible. And I'm not racist, but the cashier was a black woman, and EVERYONE, black men included, know that you do NOT mess with a black woman. They kick ass...anyone's ass.
Musings on the vagaries of getting old...
If I had lived during the Irish famine, then all this dang potato stuff in my ears would have wiped out THAT famine.
Can you fit a lawnmower up my shnozz to cut this nose hair?
WTF is up with ear hair - am I gonna have to call ChemLawn here or what?
When I was 25, sex was tri-weekly. WOO! Now that I'm 40, it's try weekly. Crap!
All the hot chix are only slightly older than my oldest child...isn't that illegal, even to think it?
Shit, they really do shrink as you get older...
Who the heck is running the show? Tilam's opinions are many and often, he blogs seemingly without coming up for air, when does he have time to run his organization? Apparently the company is able to run itself, because the big dude is off perusing the NC2A bracketology boards and blogging with abandon. Scary... By the way, Gonzaga WILL prevail, I believe that Adam Morrison is too good and really has his game together (see Bird, Larry, with Indiana State in 1979), and Gonzaga will make the Final Four.
Me? I'm a cog, nay the broken spoke, in the corporate wheel. I watch hockey, play golf, internet MMORPG (World of Warcraft), and try incessantly to make Mrs Thew perform illicit acts. Oh, and rassle with our 130 lb great dane for alpha male status (don't fret, I will not be seen at "downonthefarm.com" anytime soon). Oh, and the "play golf" part causes Tilam much consternation, since it has been nigh 10 years since he's beaten me at golf. Or almost that amount of time...
But okay, I'll take a few minutes to blog on the tourney:
Andy Katz says that UCONN will win if Marcus Williams plays like the best point guard in the nation. Best POINT GUARD! Are you listening Marcus? UCONN needs a point guard, not another scorer. We'll see if he gets the message.
And since TILAM will inevitably take a returning pot shot at me, LET'S GET READY FOR A TOURNAMENT BET! That's right readers, to make things interesting, I will propose that the ignoramus challenge the pundit. Thew vs. Tilam (you decide who is who)! Typical scoring - points for each correct pick, 1 for R1, 2 for R2, 4 for R3, and so on. I will bet a round of golf at my local club if Tilam responds in kind. If Tilam agrees, we'll figure out a way to track our picks and we'll keep you posted, since I know you all read this with the utmost interest. Tilam, you game?
On to more heady topics:
Some of you might seem familiar with Bill Engvall and his hilarious work. His catch phrase has become my mantra on life - "I HATE STUPID PEOPLE". This guy is my Dalai Lama. Just today I'm in line getting lunch, and the big sign says "CASH ONLY". Well this moron in front of me whips out his debit care - WTF, can you not read?! And he give the poor cashier a dirty look when she explains it to him. OMGz, it's incredible. And I'm not racist, but the cashier was a black woman, and EVERYONE, black men included, know that you do NOT mess with a black woman. They kick ass...anyone's ass.
Musings on the vagaries of getting old...
If I had lived during the Irish famine, then all this dang potato stuff in my ears would have wiped out THAT famine.
Can you fit a lawnmower up my shnozz to cut this nose hair?
WTF is up with ear hair - am I gonna have to call ChemLawn here or what?
When I was 25, sex was tri-weekly. WOO! Now that I'm 40, it's try weekly. Crap!
All the hot chix are only slightly older than my oldest child...isn't that illegal, even to think it?
Shit, they really do shrink as you get older...
Opinions are Like...
Pouring over the opinions on which is the toughest bracket, I am amazed at the diversity of opinion. Gregg Doyel says Oakland, Dickie V. thinks DC, De Los Santos (and my) feeling is that Minneapolis is the toughest, but I would pick Atlanta (Dennis Dodd's pick) next. I am surprised, normally there is a general consensus on the toughest region. Not that I see this year.
UNC and Kansas seem to be favorite picks for deep runs. Not gonna happen. Each is very young and did what young teams do over the season, mature, improve and beat conference opponents when they get a SECOND chance. What young teams don't do well is handle good, new look teams and the pressure of the Tourney. UNC might come out of the weak side of the DC bracket, but I do not see Kansas getting to the Sweet 16.
Another year, another Gonzaga love fest. CBS' "National Bracket" has Gonzaga in the Final Four out of Oakland. Again, Gonzaga has the "easy" ("easier"?) side of the Oakland bracket, but still will probably face IU and then Marquette (and Steve Novak) or UCLA. If they get through then they have a date with Memphis (or Kansas or Pitt). That is three games against six teams that are (IMHO) better then they are. Using Saragin's Predictor on a neutral court, Gonzaga loses to IU by a point, Marquette by a point, UCLA by 4, Memphis by 7, Kansas by 7 and Pitt by 4. Of course, you have to play the games, but I see them falling to Marquette or UCLA. Regardless, according to Jeff's computer Gonzaga does not have a neutral court advantage over any of the teams they are likely to play.
John Chaney has retired. 'Bout time. 'Nuff said.
I think I have covered all I wanted in this and the previous posts. No more commenting until after the Sweet 16 is determined. Finally, for the record, my Sweet 16 is Duke, LSU, UWV, Texas, Memphis, Pitt, Gonzaga, Marquette, UConn, Illinois, UNC, Witchita State, 'Nova, BC, Florida, GTown. My Cinderella Pick is Witchita State. (I like Northern Iowa, but they got a crap draw.)
UNC and Kansas seem to be favorite picks for deep runs. Not gonna happen. Each is very young and did what young teams do over the season, mature, improve and beat conference opponents when they get a SECOND chance. What young teams don't do well is handle good, new look teams and the pressure of the Tourney. UNC might come out of the weak side of the DC bracket, but I do not see Kansas getting to the Sweet 16.
Another year, another Gonzaga love fest. CBS' "National Bracket" has Gonzaga in the Final Four out of Oakland. Again, Gonzaga has the "easy" ("easier"?) side of the Oakland bracket, but still will probably face IU and then Marquette (and Steve Novak) or UCLA. If they get through then they have a date with Memphis (or Kansas or Pitt). That is three games against six teams that are (IMHO) better then they are. Using Saragin's Predictor on a neutral court, Gonzaga loses to IU by a point, Marquette by a point, UCLA by 4, Memphis by 7, Kansas by 7 and Pitt by 4. Of course, you have to play the games, but I see them falling to Marquette or UCLA. Regardless, according to Jeff's computer Gonzaga does not have a neutral court advantage over any of the teams they are likely to play.
John Chaney has retired. 'Bout time. 'Nuff said.
I think I have covered all I wanted in this and the previous posts. No more commenting until after the Sweet 16 is determined. Finally, for the record, my Sweet 16 is Duke, LSU, UWV, Texas, Memphis, Pitt, Gonzaga, Marquette, UConn, Illinois, UNC, Witchita State, 'Nova, BC, Florida, GTown. My Cinderella Pick is Witchita State. (I like Northern Iowa, but they got a crap draw.)
3.13.2006
Doyel's Region of Death
is...Oakland?
Normally, I agree with Gregg Doyel, but how does he figure Oakland is the Region of Death? Let's look at the 2, 3 and 4 seeds. Looking at Saragin's Rating for them, UCLA ranks 15, Gonzaga ranks 18 and Kansas ranks 10, for a total of 43.
The Minneapolis Region has OSU ranked 9, Florida ranked 8 and BC ranked 16 for a total of 33. The Atlanta Region has Texas ranked 4, Iowa ranked 14 and LSU ranked 12 for a total of 28 and DC has Tennessee ranked 13, UNC ranked 6 and Illinois ranked 7 for a total of 26. (Okay, maybe UConn has a tougher road then I thought!)
Now Pittsburgh is a strong the #5 seed, but the Oakland Region is hardly a Region of Death.
Normally, I agree with Gregg Doyel, but how does he figure Oakland is the Region of Death? Let's look at the 2, 3 and 4 seeds. Looking at Saragin's Rating for them, UCLA ranks 15, Gonzaga ranks 18 and Kansas ranks 10, for a total of 43.
The Minneapolis Region has OSU ranked 9, Florida ranked 8 and BC ranked 16 for a total of 33. The Atlanta Region has Texas ranked 4, Iowa ranked 14 and LSU ranked 12 for a total of 28 and DC has Tennessee ranked 13, UNC ranked 6 and Illinois ranked 7 for a total of 26. (Okay, maybe UConn has a tougher road then I thought!)
Now Pittsburgh is a strong the #5 seed, but the Oakland Region is hardly a Region of Death.
Snubs and Flubs
You here about snubs all the time and the question is really why did you let X in instead of us.
I think there are only two "real" snubs this year: Cincinnati and Missouri State, but as usual, each cause their own demise. With Cincy, it came down to which Big East team would they swap with? I would argue that Seton Hall should have been left out rather than Cincy, but also feel they BOTH deserved a chance.
More perplexing is Missouri State. An RPI of 21 and you do not get in? Bradley needed to go and the Bears needed to be in.
But it is in the seeding that I am scratching my head. George Washington a #8? (#3 or #4 max)Tennessee a #2? (#3) Syracuse a #5? (#7 or 8) UCLA a #2? (#3 or #4). Okay, maybe missing by one slot is not so bad, but there seemed to be a number of misses. You show respect for Missouri Valley by giving them the same number of seeds as the ACC, but then don't give them higher then a #10 seed?
But let's see, the beauty of the NC2As is that the arguments are settled on the court.
I think there are only two "real" snubs this year: Cincinnati and Missouri State, but as usual, each cause their own demise. With Cincy, it came down to which Big East team would they swap with? I would argue that Seton Hall should have been left out rather than Cincy, but also feel they BOTH deserved a chance.
More perplexing is Missouri State. An RPI of 21 and you do not get in? Bradley needed to go and the Bears needed to be in.
But it is in the seeding that I am scratching my head. George Washington a #8? (#3 or #4 max)Tennessee a #2? (#3) Syracuse a #5? (#7 or 8) UCLA a #2? (#3 or #4). Okay, maybe missing by one slot is not so bad, but there seemed to be a number of misses. You show respect for Missouri Valley by giving them the same number of seeds as the ACC, but then don't give them higher then a #10 seed?
But let's see, the beauty of the NC2As is that the arguments are settled on the court.
Quick Bracket Thoughts
Okay, here are my first impressions of the NCAA Tourney Brackets:
Toughest: Minneapolis. Whose wife did Jay Wright f***? The road to the title could be against Wisconsin, BC and OSU? Ouch.
Honorable Mention: Atlanta. Usually, I am amazed at the easy draw Duke gets. Not this year. There second round match should be against GW, who was ranked 6th in the nation last week. Coach K can bitch all he wants this year and I will be sympathetic. Of course, if Pops Mensah-Bonsu is not playing...they still might face Syracuse/LSU.
Easiest: Oakland. UCLA, Gonzaga and Kansas as 2, 3 and 4. Two team that play in weak conferences and a young Kansas team. Now a Kansas/Pitt match-up might give Memphis fits, but overall, it should be a walk for the Tigers. Of course, I am not sure I relish playing Arkansas/Bucknell early as either of those teams could be deadly to someone looking past them.
Some have said UConn's DC Bracket is easier. I would suggest that, excepting Tennessee as the #2 seed, it is tougher then Oakland. That being said, UConn is RELATIVELY better against their Bracket then Memphis is against theirs.
Elite 8: LSU, Texas, Memphis, Marquette, UConn, UNC, Villanova, Florida.
Final Four: Texas, Memphis, UConn and Villanova.
Finals: UConn and Texas
Champion: UConn.
Biggest potential letdown: UConn. Please guys, stay awake this time...
Toughest: Minneapolis. Whose wife did Jay Wright f***? The road to the title could be against Wisconsin, BC and OSU? Ouch.
Honorable Mention: Atlanta. Usually, I am amazed at the easy draw Duke gets. Not this year. There second round match should be against GW, who was ranked 6th in the nation last week. Coach K can bitch all he wants this year and I will be sympathetic. Of course, if Pops Mensah-Bonsu is not playing...they still might face Syracuse/LSU.
Easiest: Oakland. UCLA, Gonzaga and Kansas as 2, 3 and 4. Two team that play in weak conferences and a young Kansas team. Now a Kansas/Pitt match-up might give Memphis fits, but overall, it should be a walk for the Tigers. Of course, I am not sure I relish playing Arkansas/Bucknell early as either of those teams could be deadly to someone looking past them.
Some have said UConn's DC Bracket is easier. I would suggest that, excepting Tennessee as the #2 seed, it is tougher then Oakland. That being said, UConn is RELATIVELY better against their Bracket then Memphis is against theirs.
Elite 8: LSU, Texas, Memphis, Marquette, UConn, UNC, Villanova, Florida.
Final Four: Texas, Memphis, UConn and Villanova.
Finals: UConn and Texas
Champion: UConn.
Biggest potential letdown: UConn. Please guys, stay awake this time...
3.10.2006
True Dat
Tilam is right - UCONN did not lose only because of Marcus Williams. I had the opportunity to see much of the 2 halves, and here is what I saw;
No passion
No excitement
No 'tude
No Rudy Gay (see the first three) - I don't know what motivates this guy, he just stands around and watches for LONG stretches of the game - Rudy, bro, stay in school another year, your draft stock is going down like a rented whore. Of course, if *I* was the all american playa and got the ball as little as he does (see below), well, I'm not sure I'd not do the same thing.
PISS POOR shooting (see Tilam's numbers)
And ultimately, someone has GOT to tell Marcus Williams that he is not the first scoring option. Can he control the rock? Yup. Can he dish the rock? Yup. Can he shoot the rock? Nope. His shooting is suspect and his shot selection, well, that's just f'ing moronic. He is like a roach motel - ball goes in, ball doesn't come out. He will ultimately be the death of this team. Mark My Words Tilam!
Nothing else much to blog on today. The Hurricanes acquired Mark Recchi, a great move, but I hope he fits in better than Doug Weight has...
TILAM QUICK COMMENT: So I understand what might be the logic, Marcus Williams drives to the hoop, draws the foul and hits the FTs where he IS money. Here's the two flaws in that logic: first, you have to be a scoring threat to draw the defenders and two, you have to be near the basket when you go for the shot. MW is not the first and the foul line is not the place to draw the foul.
No passion
No excitement
No 'tude
No Rudy Gay (see the first three) - I don't know what motivates this guy, he just stands around and watches for LONG stretches of the game - Rudy, bro, stay in school another year, your draft stock is going down like a rented whore. Of course, if *I* was the all american playa and got the ball as little as he does (see below), well, I'm not sure I'd not do the same thing.
PISS POOR shooting (see Tilam's numbers)
And ultimately, someone has GOT to tell Marcus Williams that he is not the first scoring option. Can he control the rock? Yup. Can he dish the rock? Yup. Can he shoot the rock? Nope. His shooting is suspect and his shot selection, well, that's just f'ing moronic. He is like a roach motel - ball goes in, ball doesn't come out. He will ultimately be the death of this team. Mark My Words Tilam!
Nothing else much to blog on today. The Hurricanes acquired Mark Recchi, a great move, but I hope he fits in better than Doug Weight has...
TILAM QUICK COMMENT: So I understand what might be the logic, Marcus Williams drives to the hoop, draws the foul and hits the FTs where he IS money. Here's the two flaws in that logic: first, you have to be a scoring threat to draw the defenders and two, you have to be near the basket when you go for the shot. MW is not the first and the foul line is not the place to draw the foul.
Heading Off a Rant
Before Thew gets all hateful on Marcus Williams, I will say that you cannot blame UConn's loss on Marcus Williams. Yes, I do NOT think he should be the guy taking the final shot - Brown or Anderson should be, but UConn simply did not show up. They shot 30% from the floor. Read again: 30%. Josh Boone was 1 of 11. They started OT 0 - 10. That's right, 0 for 10.
I still think they area #1 seed, but if Villanova wins the Big East Tournament, 'Nova should get the DC region and UConn has to travel.
A final word, I was listening to the game on WTIC radio in Connecticut as I was traveling back from NY to Boston yesterday. (No, I did no plan that.) But I will say listening to a close UConn game, in Connecticut, on the cell with Thew and DRIVING is not the smartest thing yours truly has ever done. It would have been safer downing a bottle of Gentlemen Jack...
I still think they area #1 seed, but if Villanova wins the Big East Tournament, 'Nova should get the DC region and UConn has to travel.
A final word, I was listening to the game on WTIC radio in Connecticut as I was traveling back from NY to Boston yesterday. (No, I did no plan that.) But I will say listening to a close UConn game, in Connecticut, on the cell with Thew and DRIVING is not the smartest thing yours truly has ever done. It would have been safer downing a bottle of Gentlemen Jack...
3.08.2006
The slippery slope of Roe v Wade
Okay, so I'll chat a bit about this.
It might make sense to conservatives and religious right wingers to lump abortion into the bucket of heinous crimes, but I think it's more complicated than that. So let's throw some stuff out into the primordial soup of the Tilam blog...
Legalize Abortion - the woman has domain over her body, she chooses her actions, and after all is said and done, she is held accountable, either by God or no one should we just to the dirt nap when the ride is over. She can listen to the doctor, weigh the risks, then hopefully make an informed decision about her course of action. But again, she holds sway and control over herself, her body, and her destiny.
Overturn it and contest it - hmm, here is where the slippery slope causes some heartache. Okay, so abortion is illegal. Let's enter ONE of the many situations where this becomes a difficult topic.
Rape is a horrible enough crime. What if a woman gets pregnant as a result of this violent act? Are you going to FORCE her to have a child because abortion is illegal? Bear the child of a rapist criminal, who could be on drugs or crazy or worse? A child changes everything, anyone who is a parent knows that. Artificially imposing parenthood on someone who has just undergone a horrendous emotion (and physical) event is not a good thing, not to mention the daily reminder to the poor woman of the result of her rapist - something who will look into her eyes every day for the rest of her own life.
Okay so in special cases of rape, you can have an abortion. How many cases of rape do you think will be reported as a result? Don't you think that rape will become the new birth control? "Oh doc, I was raped, I need an abortion". Miss Jones will claim rape rather than admit that Mr Smith got her knocked up during a night of drunken wild sex (which is a good thing but you get my point). So she goes to her doctor and says "I was raped, I need an abortion". Quick abortion, DNC, done. Ready made birth control. BUT, what does the doctor do? If he hears that Miss Jones was raped, does he report it to the local authorities? If he does, Mr Smith will be pulled and testing done and BAM, they'll find out that he's the father and the rapist. But wait, he isn't the rapist, he's just the sperm donor. Does he do time because he's fingered as the rapist? Or does Miss Jones relent and admit she's pregnant because she's stupid. That creates bad blood and the relationship goes south and next thing you know there's another unwed mother in the world.
Bottom line, unless the federal or state authorities can account for EVERY permutation of the many loopholes of overturning Roe v Wade and possibly making abortion illegal (or something close), then you might as well just leave it as it is. Because as you have seen many times in the past, the government should not get too involved in personal issues like this, and cannot without creating a SNAFU the size of the Grand Canyon.
Gearing up for a flaming post from Tilam...
It might make sense to conservatives and religious right wingers to lump abortion into the bucket of heinous crimes, but I think it's more complicated than that. So let's throw some stuff out into the primordial soup of the Tilam blog...
Legalize Abortion - the woman has domain over her body, she chooses her actions, and after all is said and done, she is held accountable, either by God or no one should we just to the dirt nap when the ride is over. She can listen to the doctor, weigh the risks, then hopefully make an informed decision about her course of action. But again, she holds sway and control over herself, her body, and her destiny.
Overturn it and contest it - hmm, here is where the slippery slope causes some heartache. Okay, so abortion is illegal. Let's enter ONE of the many situations where this becomes a difficult topic.
Rape is a horrible enough crime. What if a woman gets pregnant as a result of this violent act? Are you going to FORCE her to have a child because abortion is illegal? Bear the child of a rapist criminal, who could be on drugs or crazy or worse? A child changes everything, anyone who is a parent knows that. Artificially imposing parenthood on someone who has just undergone a horrendous emotion (and physical) event is not a good thing, not to mention the daily reminder to the poor woman of the result of her rapist - something who will look into her eyes every day for the rest of her own life.
Okay so in special cases of rape, you can have an abortion. How many cases of rape do you think will be reported as a result? Don't you think that rape will become the new birth control? "Oh doc, I was raped, I need an abortion". Miss Jones will claim rape rather than admit that Mr Smith got her knocked up during a night of drunken wild sex (which is a good thing but you get my point). So she goes to her doctor and says "I was raped, I need an abortion". Quick abortion, DNC, done. Ready made birth control. BUT, what does the doctor do? If he hears that Miss Jones was raped, does he report it to the local authorities? If he does, Mr Smith will be pulled and testing done and BAM, they'll find out that he's the father and the rapist. But wait, he isn't the rapist, he's just the sperm donor. Does he do time because he's fingered as the rapist? Or does Miss Jones relent and admit she's pregnant because she's stupid. That creates bad blood and the relationship goes south and next thing you know there's another unwed mother in the world.
Bottom line, unless the federal or state authorities can account for EVERY permutation of the many loopholes of overturning Roe v Wade and possibly making abortion illegal (or something close), then you might as well just leave it as it is. Because as you have seen many times in the past, the government should not get too involved in personal issues like this, and cannot without creating a SNAFU the size of the Grand Canyon.
Gearing up for a flaming post from Tilam...
Take a DEEP breath and get ready to spew Thew!
The auto-flush toilet...let it NEVER be said that this blog tackles ONLY esoteric topics, we cover the entire gamut of human existence. But Thew, in his high and mighty wisdom, will not wax upon this subject, as I cannot remember the last time I put my hands on a public toilet; call me an old soccer god, but the foot flushes just as easily as the hand with 1% of the germs. Besides, WHO CRAPS IN PUBLIC bathrooms anyway?! Mrs Thew told me that her arse never touches the seat in a public restroom, she just squats and aims...sort of. (Hey, kinda like...oh, sorry, TMI!) If it ain't the Crown Room, or a high quality hotel, then my poo will not grace the toilet sides - I shall remain a hold out until I can defecate in my own personal loo. 'Nuff said.
Okay, on to other stuff...
Reddick is tired. The bench is not deep, JJ has to play a ton of minutes. And he's showing a little wear and tear this late in the season. If I had to vote for a PotY, well, I'd split my vote - Rudy Gay is, of course, OUT. He is too soft, not aggressive enough. Talent through the roof, OMG, but no killer instinct. Adam Morrison get's my nod over Reddick because he creates a buttload of his own shots with his skill. Reddick gets my nod over Morrison because he is the best pure shooter in the land. And since Tilam is going to badge me until I fall off the fence one way, I'll go with Morrison with a RRCH of a margin.
Let's SLAM Tilam. So Kirby kept his demons quiet during his career? Well, hell, so did Pete Rose. We didn't hear about his gambling problems until AFTER he retired as a full time player. Duh...wtf is your point here? But that aside, I can't think of a person who played with more passion, enjoyment, verve, and treated those around him like friends and family, more than Kirby Puckett. A man who took a chess players body and became an all-star and World Series hero. Regardless of his personal issues, he was a player (and based on his extra-cirriculars, a player in more than the baseball sense of the word) and the baseball world is a sadder and diminished place from his passing.
Michelle Wie...RANKED #3?! Where the HELL did this number come from? She didn't win in Juniors, she hasn't won on the LPGA, and hasn't even MADE THE CUT at a men's event! So she finished in the top ten a few weeks ago, BFD! Her 2nd place standing going into the LPGA last year was followed by a Jason Gore like phenomenal collapse into obscurity on the final day. THAT is not indicative of the 3rd ranked player in the world. My gosh, she's not even in my top 10 LPGA hotties list (hellooooooo, Natalie Gulbis). So as I meander through this topic, I think of two possibilities: either the LPGA FUBARED the rankings because the new commish and her ranking team are a bunch of morons, or they put her 3rd to create controversy, excitement, opinions, and consequently...publicity. Personally, I think they are morons. Now, she MIGHt be ranked #3 in EGO without success and hype without results, much like Bode Miller and this year's Olympics, but #3 in the LPGA? I wonder who she blew tew get almost to tew, it sure wasn't Thew.
Barry Bonds...okay, what Grizzly Adams, no city livin', cave dweller is NOT surprised by this new news of his steroid use?! Jeebus! But here's another point - before he started juicing, he was 400/400 HR/SB already, and had won 3 MVP's. So he was ALREADY a playa. But what happened was the ego went south, and he decided to juice up his power, so that when a fantastic hitter got solid contact, it went yard. We forget that Mark McGwire hit 49 HR's as a rookie in 1988. So he just got bigger and better, but he was already good. Barry Bonds was already at the top of the heap, so to do what he did for the reasons listed in that book is incredible. Does he get into the HoF? Here we go again. I'm going to sit on my personal commode (see above) and ruminate upon this subject until more public information becomes available. But you AGAIn get into the sticky discussion of personality vs performance. If this is true, I'd vote Pete Rose into the HoF before Barry Bonds, because Pete's numbers are pure, he just gambled on baseball. Bonds' numbers are tainted, increased and juiced by artificial means. He would have been a Hall of Famer if he'd just continued at the same pace before 1999. So okay, I'll vote him my asswipe of the week.
On the serious subject of Roe v Wade, I have to pretty much agree with Tilam. How far do government entities (federal or state) intrude into our personal space and physical being has always been a heated debate. Mostly because Tilam and I have known each other for a long time and have had a great many discussions about this over a barley beverage, I have to pretty much agree with him. Sticky subject, very personal, I HATE to get into this in public. Too many time the federales try to intrude upon our very personal decisions, and that chaps my ass. So I'll pass over this one...
The other day I received my SI Swimsuit Issue. You know, maybe it's old age (though I doubt it), but I'm just no longer impressed with that. Too many pictures of skinny, emaciated, not-very-attractive models (well, some of them) - although the cover with all the ex-models was great. Elle, Rachel, Rebecca, they are all healthy and have a proper amount of body, not some 1 piece of bread and lettuce eatin' bulimic bich body. Rachel Hunter has vaulted her way onto my top 10 list...especially if you've ever seen the video for "Stacie's Mom" - woof woof!
Carolina, still at the top of the NHL.
Yankees, still the favorite of the AL East.
T-Wolves, back into the cellar, watch for KG to sulk and the team to miss the playoffs.
Vikings, the poster boys for underachievers.
Okay, on to other stuff...
Reddick is tired. The bench is not deep, JJ has to play a ton of minutes. And he's showing a little wear and tear this late in the season. If I had to vote for a PotY, well, I'd split my vote - Rudy Gay is, of course, OUT. He is too soft, not aggressive enough. Talent through the roof, OMG, but no killer instinct. Adam Morrison get's my nod over Reddick because he creates a buttload of his own shots with his skill. Reddick gets my nod over Morrison because he is the best pure shooter in the land. And since Tilam is going to badge me until I fall off the fence one way, I'll go with Morrison with a RRCH of a margin.
Let's SLAM Tilam. So Kirby kept his demons quiet during his career? Well, hell, so did Pete Rose. We didn't hear about his gambling problems until AFTER he retired as a full time player. Duh...wtf is your point here? But that aside, I can't think of a person who played with more passion, enjoyment, verve, and treated those around him like friends and family, more than Kirby Puckett. A man who took a chess players body and became an all-star and World Series hero. Regardless of his personal issues, he was a player (and based on his extra-cirriculars, a player in more than the baseball sense of the word) and the baseball world is a sadder and diminished place from his passing.
Michelle Wie...RANKED #3?! Where the HELL did this number come from? She didn't win in Juniors, she hasn't won on the LPGA, and hasn't even MADE THE CUT at a men's event! So she finished in the top ten a few weeks ago, BFD! Her 2nd place standing going into the LPGA last year was followed by a Jason Gore like phenomenal collapse into obscurity on the final day. THAT is not indicative of the 3rd ranked player in the world. My gosh, she's not even in my top 10 LPGA hotties list (hellooooooo, Natalie Gulbis). So as I meander through this topic, I think of two possibilities: either the LPGA FUBARED the rankings because the new commish and her ranking team are a bunch of morons, or they put her 3rd to create controversy, excitement, opinions, and consequently...publicity. Personally, I think they are morons. Now, she MIGHt be ranked #3 in EGO without success and hype without results, much like Bode Miller and this year's Olympics, but #3 in the LPGA? I wonder who she blew tew get almost to tew, it sure wasn't Thew.
Barry Bonds...okay, what Grizzly Adams, no city livin', cave dweller is NOT surprised by this new news of his steroid use?! Jeebus! But here's another point - before he started juicing, he was 400/400 HR/SB already, and had won 3 MVP's. So he was ALREADY a playa. But what happened was the ego went south, and he decided to juice up his power, so that when a fantastic hitter got solid contact, it went yard. We forget that Mark McGwire hit 49 HR's as a rookie in 1988. So he just got bigger and better, but he was already good. Barry Bonds was already at the top of the heap, so to do what he did for the reasons listed in that book is incredible. Does he get into the HoF? Here we go again. I'm going to sit on my personal commode (see above) and ruminate upon this subject until more public information becomes available. But you AGAIn get into the sticky discussion of personality vs performance. If this is true, I'd vote Pete Rose into the HoF before Barry Bonds, because Pete's numbers are pure, he just gambled on baseball. Bonds' numbers are tainted, increased and juiced by artificial means. He would have been a Hall of Famer if he'd just continued at the same pace before 1999. So okay, I'll vote him my asswipe of the week.
On the serious subject of Roe v Wade, I have to pretty much agree with Tilam. How far do government entities (federal or state) intrude into our personal space and physical being has always been a heated debate. Mostly because Tilam and I have known each other for a long time and have had a great many discussions about this over a barley beverage, I have to pretty much agree with him. Sticky subject, very personal, I HATE to get into this in public. Too many time the federales try to intrude upon our very personal decisions, and that chaps my ass. So I'll pass over this one...
The other day I received my SI Swimsuit Issue. You know, maybe it's old age (though I doubt it), but I'm just no longer impressed with that. Too many pictures of skinny, emaciated, not-very-attractive models (well, some of them) - although the cover with all the ex-models was great. Elle, Rachel, Rebecca, they are all healthy and have a proper amount of body, not some 1 piece of bread and lettuce eatin' bulimic bich body. Rachel Hunter has vaulted her way onto my top 10 list...especially if you've ever seen the video for "Stacie's Mom" - woof woof!
Carolina, still at the top of the NHL.
Yankees, still the favorite of the AL East.
T-Wolves, back into the cellar, watch for KG to sulk and the team to miss the playoffs.
Vikings, the poster boys for underachievers.
3.07.2006
Maybe All Technology is Not Grand
Over at Slate, Nick Schulz condemns the auto-flush toilet. Warning it is funny enough to soil yourself.
Me: there is a manual button on auto-flushes, Nick! Okay, one could quibble with the accessibility of the thing, but dang: DO THE RESEARCH! Thank God for the blog revolution, so that readers can be totally informed. With reporting like that, he could be on 60 Minutes II. Would that make Tilam the PowerLine of the potty world?
Me 2: I can't believe I blog about this crap.
Me: there is a manual button on auto-flushes, Nick! Okay, one could quibble with the accessibility of the thing, but dang: DO THE RESEARCH! Thank God for the blog revolution, so that readers can be totally informed. With reporting like that, he could be on 60 Minutes II. Would that make Tilam the PowerLine of the potty world?
Me 2: I can't believe I blog about this crap.
A Row over Roe?
South Dakota has passed a law directly challenging Roe v. Wade. (See Captain's Quarters for a start.)
Roe is a funny beast legally. It merges two distinct issues (legal and moral) into one case with passionate feeling on BOTH issues from the right and left. The legal question is whether the "right to privacy" - an unarticulated "right" in the Constitution - is sufficiently enumerated to overcome federalism. That is, is regulation of abortion the right of the federal government or the states? Overturning Roe will not make abortion illegal, it will simply pass the question on to the states.
The moral question is "when does life begin?" "Life" here means when do we become human (or human enough) thus making abortion murder. To this I would add an often overlooked, but to me no less important, question: under what conditions may a government entity to assume control of a woman's body? I think this is important because if you believe that life begins at conception (as oppose to, say, viability or a beating heart) and ban abortion, you force a woman who might not want a child (putting aside for a second the reasons why) to surrender herself for nine months to incubate the child. I have worked hard to try and find an analogy, but I can't.
The legal question, for me, is easy. The "right to privacy" is not a right enumerated in the Constitution and thus cannot serve as a basis for ignoring the Tenth Amendment. ("The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.") This is a state question.
Of course, there has been a whole host of rulings using the "right to privacy" to justify themselves. (Overturning state anti-sodomy laws, for example.) So overturning the basis of Roe v. Wade will have a far greater impact then just on abortion laws. But the negative impact is no reason to retain a fundamentally flawed ruling.
The moral question are trickier. Yours truly believes that a women must retain some "right" to control her body post-conception, but at some point - viability; a beating heart - a women becomes a custodian for a brand new citizen of the United States, with all the rights, privileges and protections that come with that status. The trap that this "logic" springs is where do you draw the line? "Viability" is certainly a squishy concept, but it is generally "viable" at 28 weeks. But at 25 weeks there is a 60% chance that the baby will survive and babies have survived earlier births than 25 weeks.
Using the "beating heart" standard puts you at 9 - 12 weeks or at the end of the first trimester.
Readers know my opinions of the "right to die": I believe in assisted suicide with medical verification of terminal illness from two or more doctors; I believe in the ability of loved ones to withdraw life support, if that is the will of the patient and I believe in some limited ability of a woman to abort her pregnancy, BUT I am open to debate the details. What I abhor is federal government interference with these decisions. While I do understand that government must weigh in on these matters, it should be the government most responsive and accountable to its people - in our system that is the state.
Allowing the states to come up with "solutions" will only further the debate and allow the "right" answer to emerge over time.
So, go South Dakota, it is time to abort Roe.
Roe is a funny beast legally. It merges two distinct issues (legal and moral) into one case with passionate feeling on BOTH issues from the right and left. The legal question is whether the "right to privacy" - an unarticulated "right" in the Constitution - is sufficiently enumerated to overcome federalism. That is, is regulation of abortion the right of the federal government or the states? Overturning Roe will not make abortion illegal, it will simply pass the question on to the states.
The moral question is "when does life begin?" "Life" here means when do we become human (or human enough) thus making abortion murder. To this I would add an often overlooked, but to me no less important, question: under what conditions may a government entity to assume control of a woman's body? I think this is important because if you believe that life begins at conception (as oppose to, say, viability or a beating heart) and ban abortion, you force a woman who might not want a child (putting aside for a second the reasons why) to surrender herself for nine months to incubate the child. I have worked hard to try and find an analogy, but I can't.
The legal question, for me, is easy. The "right to privacy" is not a right enumerated in the Constitution and thus cannot serve as a basis for ignoring the Tenth Amendment. ("The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.") This is a state question.
Of course, there has been a whole host of rulings using the "right to privacy" to justify themselves. (Overturning state anti-sodomy laws, for example.) So overturning the basis of Roe v. Wade will have a far greater impact then just on abortion laws. But the negative impact is no reason to retain a fundamentally flawed ruling.
The moral question are trickier. Yours truly believes that a women must retain some "right" to control her body post-conception, but at some point - viability; a beating heart - a women becomes a custodian for a brand new citizen of the United States, with all the rights, privileges and protections that come with that status. The trap that this "logic" springs is where do you draw the line? "Viability" is certainly a squishy concept, but it is generally "viable" at 28 weeks. But at 25 weeks there is a 60% chance that the baby will survive and babies have survived earlier births than 25 weeks.
Using the "beating heart" standard puts you at 9 - 12 weeks or at the end of the first trimester.
Readers know my opinions of the "right to die": I believe in assisted suicide with medical verification of terminal illness from two or more doctors; I believe in the ability of loved ones to withdraw life support, if that is the will of the patient and I believe in some limited ability of a woman to abort her pregnancy, BUT I am open to debate the details. What I abhor is federal government interference with these decisions. While I do understand that government must weigh in on these matters, it should be the government most responsive and accountable to its people - in our system that is the state.
Allowing the states to come up with "solutions" will only further the debate and allow the "right" answer to emerge over time.
So, go South Dakota, it is time to abort Roe.
King Kirby
I know Thew joins me in mourning the death of Kirby Puckett.
I was in Minneapolis during the World Series in '91 and watched the rabid fervor of the Minnesota fans up close and personal. At the top of the pyramid of worship was Kirby Puckett - and deservedly so. Puckett exemplified "class act" and gave generously to the community - and the community responded in spades to him.
We wish his family the best during these times.
UPDATE: Baseball Crank remembers the good and bad of Kirby. Whatever his private demons, he seemed to keep those hidden during his career. I wish the same could be said of all athletes.
I was in Minneapolis during the World Series in '91 and watched the rabid fervor of the Minnesota fans up close and personal. At the top of the pyramid of worship was Kirby Puckett - and deservedly so. Puckett exemplified "class act" and gave generously to the community - and the community responded in spades to him.
We wish his family the best during these times.
UPDATE: Baseball Crank remembers the good and bad of Kirby. Whatever his private demons, he seemed to keep those hidden during his career. I wish the same could be said of all athletes.
3.06.2006
J.J. Having Problems with the J
In the Duke-UNC game, Dickie V. was talking about the "awful" slump Reddick was in. Since the Miami game at Cameron, here are Reddick's numbers for the last four games:
Opponent FGM TPM PPG
@GT 5-21 1-6 22
@Temple 3-10 1-6 11
@FSU 10-28 4-14 30
UNC 5-21 2-10 18
Total 23-80 8-36 20 (average)
% 29% 22%
Every player has a slump, but Dickie V. was right, Reddick is in a big one (for him). Of course, coming out of it right about now would be good timing, but it goes to the point below about looking tired.
UPDATE: The table above looks like crap and I am too lazy to figure out tables in Blogger. You get the point...
Opponent FGM TPM PPG
@GT 5-21 1-6 22
@Temple 3-10 1-6 11
@FSU 10-28 4-14 30
UNC 5-21 2-10 18
Total 23-80 8-36 20 (average)
% 29% 22%
Every player has a slump, but Dickie V. was right, Reddick is in a big one (for him). Of course, coming out of it right about now would be good timing, but it goes to the point below about looking tired.
UPDATE: The table above looks like crap and I am too lazy to figure out tables in Blogger. You get the point...
Duke v. UNC & Big Ten Thoughts
Saturday, I definitely needed a little rest, so I thought I'd watch Duke/UNC for just a minute at the start of the second half. Like they say, you can't just have one.
What a game. Watching that game two thoughts came up: first is that Duke looked tired. UNC just out hustled Duke and Reddick looked beat. At one point, Dickie V. says, "someone else needs to step up..." and noone did. DeMarcus Nelson made a couple of three pointers near the end to give the Cameron Crazies some hope, but Duke looked emotionally drained. This is not to say they are done, they simple are not, but they need a shot in the arm.
Second, UNC will be scary next year. Roy Williams has really taken this squad of freshmen and molded an Elite 8 team and a potential pre-season Top 3. Of course, there have been disappointments in the past, most notably the Georgia Tech squad that came back intact from the title game in 2004, but you get the impression these guys are different.
On a related matter, the pro sports writers have the Big 10 with as many as seven bids. Huh? With the ACC on having 4? Readers of this blog (Mom and Dad, you know who you are) know that I don't think that losses in the conference season against conference opponents mean as much as most think. That is, I don't believe one or two conference losses makes a trend. But conference wins are the same way. Indiana beating Michigan should not put them in the tourney over, say, Florida State. The ACC and Big Ten should get 5 bids apiece. Further, I would note that the ACC won the Big 10-ACC Challenge (again). I don't think the ACC is as strong this year as some years, but I don't think they are weaker then the Big 10.
Give the extra bid to the SEC who should have 6 bids this year...
What a game. Watching that game two thoughts came up: first is that Duke looked tired. UNC just out hustled Duke and Reddick looked beat. At one point, Dickie V. says, "someone else needs to step up..." and noone did. DeMarcus Nelson made a couple of three pointers near the end to give the Cameron Crazies some hope, but Duke looked emotionally drained. This is not to say they are done, they simple are not, but they need a shot in the arm.
Second, UNC will be scary next year. Roy Williams has really taken this squad of freshmen and molded an Elite 8 team and a potential pre-season Top 3. Of course, there have been disappointments in the past, most notably the Georgia Tech squad that came back intact from the title game in 2004, but you get the impression these guys are different.
On a related matter, the pro sports writers have the Big 10 with as many as seven bids. Huh? With the ACC on having 4? Readers of this blog (Mom and Dad, you know who you are) know that I don't think that losses in the conference season against conference opponents mean as much as most think. That is, I don't believe one or two conference losses makes a trend. But conference wins are the same way. Indiana beating Michigan should not put them in the tourney over, say, Florida State. The ACC and Big Ten should get 5 bids apiece. Further, I would note that the ACC won the Big 10-ACC Challenge (again). I don't think the ACC is as strong this year as some years, but I don't think they are weaker then the Big 10.
Give the extra bid to the SEC who should have 6 bids this year...
3.02.2006
That is Why it is Called Madness
First off, I failed to comment on Thew's post below because...I agree. I think he was/is shocked that such an event occurs. (Psychologists call this "projecting" - since Thew can't let a post go by without some gratuitous smack down, he assumes I can't either. Ooops. I guess THAT was a gratuitous smack down.) Overall, on the Olympics, I do think USA Olympics need to get their collective act together. That fact is, most of the hype just ended up being embarrassing. I also disagree with the pundits who point to the time delay as the ratings problem for NBC. There were simply fewer compelling story lines.
Now on to the real story. The difference between Joe Lunardi and yours truly is that yours truly will not have to contort his logic this morning to justify his past positions. Duke's loss last night was not a shocker. They are tough, but fragile. They just beat FSU (at Cameron Indoor) last time with some home cooked refereeing, so without the zebras to help out Williams...he fouls out.
I will say, what was Coach K thinking? Pulling his team off the field...for safety sake? More like, let's end the humiliation and run and hide.
So, where does that leave us? In truth, no different then yesterday. Barring a total collapse, the four number 1s are UConn, Duke, Villanova and Memphis. How could this change? Losing the last game? A quick out in the conference tourney? Both? Well, the generally accepted 5-8 teams, Gonzaga, Texas, SW and Pitt, are simply not number 1 worthy in my humble opinion. There is a fair chance the Selection Committee will not have a tough choice. I would suspect that there is a 90% chance all the number 1s either win or make it to the championship game of their conference tournaments.
Of course, things could change...that is why they call it madness.
One final note. It is assured that either UConn or Villanova will not win the conference tournament. IF it is a Huskies-Cats final, regardless of the outcome, they each should keep the number one seed.
Now on to the real story. The difference between Joe Lunardi and yours truly is that yours truly will not have to contort his logic this morning to justify his past positions. Duke's loss last night was not a shocker. They are tough, but fragile. They just beat FSU (at Cameron Indoor) last time with some home cooked refereeing, so without the zebras to help out Williams...he fouls out.
I will say, what was Coach K thinking? Pulling his team off the field...for safety sake? More like, let's end the humiliation and run and hide.
So, where does that leave us? In truth, no different then yesterday. Barring a total collapse, the four number 1s are UConn, Duke, Villanova and Memphis. How could this change? Losing the last game? A quick out in the conference tourney? Both? Well, the generally accepted 5-8 teams, Gonzaga, Texas, SW and Pitt, are simply not number 1 worthy in my humble opinion. There is a fair chance the Selection Committee will not have a tough choice. I would suspect that there is a 90% chance all the number 1s either win or make it to the championship game of their conference tournaments.
Of course, things could change...that is why they call it madness.
One final note. It is assured that either UConn or Villanova will not win the conference tournament. IF it is a Huskies-Cats final, regardless of the outcome, they each should keep the number one seed.
2.27.2006
UConn 'Nova II
This was a very good game for the Huskies. My big knock on the Huskies is that they lose interest occasionally. They lost interest in UConn 'Nova I and let Villanova back in to win it. Not this time. Despite a couple of lapses, the Huskies looked very strong. The game was closer then the 14 point margin, but it was a game were digging out of a 6 point hole looked nearly impossible.
So, it is back to Devils #1 and Huskies #2. As I have maintained, you could make an argument for that or UConn #1 and Duke #2, but what has impressed me is that you can easily see Villanova in the title game as well.
All the arguments are moot until the Tournament. I still suggest that UConn and Villanova will be best prepared coming out of conference play and the tournaments because of the strength of the Big East. The "weakness" of the ACC, Big 12 and CUSA hurts Duke, Texas and Memphis, but all have a legitimate shot. I am not a big fan of Gonzaga, though Morrison is a player, and GW really has not shown me anything exciting, so I am looking at Pitt, Georgetown, and the Big Ten pair of OSU and Illinois. (But WHAT is up with the Big Ten???)
It would be a crying shame if Notre Dame did not get into the Tournament, though I do not think they will at this point. That team comes to play every night and has had enough heart breakers to last a lifetime, the latest against UConn. But the Selection does not reward "close, but."
One final UConn note, in the 'Nova loss and ND game, it was the rapid three's that got 'Nova and ND back into the game. I wonder how this plays out in a Duke game.
So, it is back to Devils #1 and Huskies #2. As I have maintained, you could make an argument for that or UConn #1 and Duke #2, but what has impressed me is that you can easily see Villanova in the title game as well.
All the arguments are moot until the Tournament. I still suggest that UConn and Villanova will be best prepared coming out of conference play and the tournaments because of the strength of the Big East. The "weakness" of the ACC, Big 12 and CUSA hurts Duke, Texas and Memphis, but all have a legitimate shot. I am not a big fan of Gonzaga, though Morrison is a player, and GW really has not shown me anything exciting, so I am looking at Pitt, Georgetown, and the Big Ten pair of OSU and Illinois. (But WHAT is up with the Big Ten???)
It would be a crying shame if Notre Dame did not get into the Tournament, though I do not think they will at this point. That team comes to play every night and has had enough heart breakers to last a lifetime, the latest against UConn. But the Selection does not reward "close, but."
One final UConn note, in the 'Nova loss and ND game, it was the rapid three's that got 'Nova and ND back into the game. I wonder how this plays out in a Duke game.
2.26.2006
The Things We Do for Love
My wife, who is a beautiful statuesque 5'9" irish redhead, once told me "you don't ever have to purchase me flowers on any day, they just last for a week then die". So, being the man that I am, I took her words to heart. Bad move. So this past Valentine's Day, I purchased her a dozen overpriced red roses, dinner at a swank local bistro, and tickets to see Bon Jovi in concert. But what takes the cake in our marriage is the exact thing I'm doing while writing this blog...sitting with her watching reality tv - and not just reality, the cheesiest, made for tv spectacle, "Dancing with the Stars". Somewhere a tattooed biker with pieces of food in his beard and a beer belly you can fit a basketball in is wretching. I will be sure to check my manhood after this, but such is the thing we men do for love...and booty points. But 30 mins of Stacy Kiebler is a small consolation that I will live with.
Ok, on to more salient points:
Lindsay Jacobellis - you are the BEST IN THE WORLD and the other people who raced with you know it - they weren't within a long distance phone call near the end. One little mistake should not define you, regardless if it was in the Olympics. Stick it to 'em in 2010.
Bode Miller - goodbye. Have a fun free fall into obscurity. If we're lucky we'll never hear any of your bullshit again. Say goodbye to your endorsements. I hope you had fun "partying like the Olympics", because you are done.
USA Hockey - you are passionless, apathetic, old, and slow. I'd rather lose with young, hungry players than with old and tired relics like Mike Modano, who used to be a classy player until his petulant little hissy fit of an exit. Chris Chelios, you are the only bright spot in a sea or darkness.
Zach Lund - sorry you got busted for Propecia. It was legal for a while, but it's illegal now. And YOU SHOULD HAVE KNOWN! You should have been up on the latest laws and rules, missing that was unforgiveable, and the result is a disqualification and suspension. Come back bald but better.
Michelle Kwan - with grace and dignity, you left us. American figure skating is better for having you be a part of it.
Shani Davis - maybe I am not completely up on this, but cut it with the ghetto attitude. You're an Olympian, not a black Olympian. Enough, the shtick is getting old.
Joey Cheek - I bow down to your integrity and generosity. Donating $45k then challenging corporate america to match it is mind boggling in this day of selfish and whiny athletes.
I don't understand the flood of "X Games" sports in the Olympics, but they are certainly exciting (snowboard xcross - wow). Frankly, since the other sports are for the most part pretty boring (except for hockey), the Olympics are only interesting for the first few days.
Curling - OH MY GOSH I've become interested in this sport. I like it. That makes me a boring person, I guess. But Pete Fensen and the USA Curling program made a MAJOR statement in beating the Brits for the bronze medal. Congrats to Pete!
The one beef I read and had myself was the simple fact that the Olympics lose their attractiveness for the TV audience when the results are posted on the Internet 8 hours before we get to watch them. Suspense gone. Desire to view the games...gone.
UCONN - 'Nova today; sure, revenge is sweet, and 'Nova made the Huskies look lost in the last meeting. But the most important thing to take away from this game was the simple fact that a QUALITY front court of big men will make 'Nova suffer. Tilam will have more insight into who has a deep and tall frontcourt, but I believe that today's game shows that 'Nova's quickness is great and is a force, but that they are vulnerable to a deep and quality set of towers, and Josh Boone and Hilton Armstrong (with backups Nelson and Adrian) proved that today.
Florida - these guys were #2 at one point? I didn't see much passion, much verve, much go-get-'em today, as a result they lose to Alabama (unranked Alabama). Look for them to NOT make the Sweet Sixteen in the big dance.
Ok, on to more salient points:
Lindsay Jacobellis - you are the BEST IN THE WORLD and the other people who raced with you know it - they weren't within a long distance phone call near the end. One little mistake should not define you, regardless if it was in the Olympics. Stick it to 'em in 2010.
Bode Miller - goodbye. Have a fun free fall into obscurity. If we're lucky we'll never hear any of your bullshit again. Say goodbye to your endorsements. I hope you had fun "partying like the Olympics", because you are done.
USA Hockey - you are passionless, apathetic, old, and slow. I'd rather lose with young, hungry players than with old and tired relics like Mike Modano, who used to be a classy player until his petulant little hissy fit of an exit. Chris Chelios, you are the only bright spot in a sea or darkness.
Zach Lund - sorry you got busted for Propecia. It was legal for a while, but it's illegal now. And YOU SHOULD HAVE KNOWN! You should have been up on the latest laws and rules, missing that was unforgiveable, and the result is a disqualification and suspension. Come back bald but better.
Michelle Kwan - with grace and dignity, you left us. American figure skating is better for having you be a part of it.
Shani Davis - maybe I am not completely up on this, but cut it with the ghetto attitude. You're an Olympian, not a black Olympian. Enough, the shtick is getting old.
Joey Cheek - I bow down to your integrity and generosity. Donating $45k then challenging corporate america to match it is mind boggling in this day of selfish and whiny athletes.
I don't understand the flood of "X Games" sports in the Olympics, but they are certainly exciting (snowboard xcross - wow). Frankly, since the other sports are for the most part pretty boring (except for hockey), the Olympics are only interesting for the first few days.
Curling - OH MY GOSH I've become interested in this sport. I like it. That makes me a boring person, I guess. But Pete Fensen and the USA Curling program made a MAJOR statement in beating the Brits for the bronze medal. Congrats to Pete!
The one beef I read and had myself was the simple fact that the Olympics lose their attractiveness for the TV audience when the results are posted on the Internet 8 hours before we get to watch them. Suspense gone. Desire to view the games...gone.
UCONN - 'Nova today; sure, revenge is sweet, and 'Nova made the Huskies look lost in the last meeting. But the most important thing to take away from this game was the simple fact that a QUALITY front court of big men will make 'Nova suffer. Tilam will have more insight into who has a deep and tall frontcourt, but I believe that today's game shows that 'Nova's quickness is great and is a force, but that they are vulnerable to a deep and quality set of towers, and Josh Boone and Hilton Armstrong (with backups Nelson and Adrian) proved that today.
Florida - these guys were #2 at one point? I didn't see much passion, much verve, much go-get-'em today, as a result they lose to Alabama (unranked Alabama). Look for them to NOT make the Sweet Sixteen in the big dance.
2.17.2006
More Blowhards
Mrs. Tilam accuses me of being too hard on Michelle Wie. In the interest of fairness, allow me to point out two other annoying blowhards.
First off, I have a love/hate relationship with the Winter Olympics. I truly enjoy watching sports that I never see at any other time (womens' curling anyone???). But I also think the Winter Olympics are REALLY high in the blowhard factor.
Bode Miller has been all over the place: TV, magazines, the web. I am not sure why. The guy has not performed during the season and has looked lame in the Olympics. Why is the media obsessed with this drunk slacker?
Johnny Weir, just shut up already. Missed the bus and that threw you off? You did not feel good? You choked, you had the silver and you choked. Now you can go home and be just another male figure skater of questionable sexuality. Your ten minutes are up.
On the flip side, Joey Cheek gives his $25,000 medal bonus to famine relief. Now, that is a true Olympian.
First off, I have a love/hate relationship with the Winter Olympics. I truly enjoy watching sports that I never see at any other time (womens' curling anyone???). But I also think the Winter Olympics are REALLY high in the blowhard factor.
Bode Miller has been all over the place: TV, magazines, the web. I am not sure why. The guy has not performed during the season and has looked lame in the Olympics. Why is the media obsessed with this drunk slacker?
Johnny Weir, just shut up already. Missed the bus and that threw you off? You did not feel good? You choked, you had the silver and you choked. Now you can go home and be just another male figure skater of questionable sexuality. Your ten minutes are up.
On the flip side, Joey Cheek gives his $25,000 medal bonus to famine relief. Now, that is a true Olympian.
2.15.2006
Thew is So Reserved
Really, Thew. Don't sugar coat it, tell me how you really feel.
There is no doubt Williams had an awful game. He had been playing really well until that point, so I am not sure what got into him. With a double digit lead, there is no time to be show boating. I do think credit is due to Villanova, though. They hung in there and played a great game.
As an aside, I wonder how much the media controversy has affected the team...
I did not think UConn would make it through the next few games unscathed. In fact, this is the game I expected them to lose. Now they are playing UWV, fresh off of a "bad loss" to Seton Hall. But the game that will most show the character of the team is the next Villanova game. If you are a UConn fan, that game will tell you more than anything.
Barring a complete disaster, I think three of the teams you will see in the Final Four have not changed in my mind: Duke, UConn and Villanova. If any of those teams lose, I just do not see it affecting anything major. I think UConn and Villanova are in the toughest spot because there is a fair chance they will play twice more. Assuming UConn wins next week and they meet in the Big East Tournament, will the loser deserve a #2 seed??? Assuming those are the only losses, I would say not.
But no one has asked me...
There is no doubt Williams had an awful game. He had been playing really well until that point, so I am not sure what got into him. With a double digit lead, there is no time to be show boating. I do think credit is due to Villanova, though. They hung in there and played a great game.
As an aside, I wonder how much the media controversy has affected the team...
I did not think UConn would make it through the next few games unscathed. In fact, this is the game I expected them to lose. Now they are playing UWV, fresh off of a "bad loss" to Seton Hall. But the game that will most show the character of the team is the next Villanova game. If you are a UConn fan, that game will tell you more than anything.
Barring a complete disaster, I think three of the teams you will see in the Final Four have not changed in my mind: Duke, UConn and Villanova. If any of those teams lose, I just do not see it affecting anything major. I think UConn and Villanova are in the toughest spot because there is a fair chance they will play twice more. Assuming UConn wins next week and they meet in the Big East Tournament, will the loser deserve a #2 seed??? Assuming those are the only losses, I would say not.
But no one has asked me...
2.14.2006
Knowing your job!
I don't know what is up with Marcus Williams, but someone needs to tell him that THE POINT GUARD IS NOT SUPPOSED TO BE THE LEADING SCORER! His performance last night was horrible, and truly the cause of the UCONN loss. Hey Marcus, you moron, this is NOT your playground streetball, those bullshit moves you try to do don't work! 5 assists and 6 turnovers (or is it 6 & 5?) SUCKS! You are supposed to find the open man first, not take the shot first. You are NOT Stephon Marbury, who by the way, hasn't done anything but get coaches fired and himself traded...
This guy is a black hole. Ball goes in, ball doesn't come out. He takes to cool little floaters in the lane that look so great if you actually make 'em, which he doesn't. Why the point guard is jacking up a 3 pointer with Rudy Gay wide open on the wing is frikkin beyond me! WTF is his problem - and why isn't Calhoun pulling him behind the treeline and pummelling him with the CLUE hammer?!
But now I know why Rudy Gay doesn't light it up - THE POINT GUARD DOESN'T PASS IT TO HIM! Lack of touches means lack of shots - lack of shots means less points. This holds true of Josh Boone as well as Rashad Anderson - GET THEM THE FUGGIN BALL you idiot!
UCONN will NEVER win a national championship (and this from a UCONN graduate) with this guy at the point unless he figures this out. I am worried sick come March...
This guy is a black hole. Ball goes in, ball doesn't come out. He takes to cool little floaters in the lane that look so great if you actually make 'em, which he doesn't. Why the point guard is jacking up a 3 pointer with Rudy Gay wide open on the wing is frikkin beyond me! WTF is his problem - and why isn't Calhoun pulling him behind the treeline and pummelling him with the CLUE hammer?!
But now I know why Rudy Gay doesn't light it up - THE POINT GUARD DOESN'T PASS IT TO HIM! Lack of touches means lack of shots - lack of shots means less points. This holds true of Josh Boone as well as Rashad Anderson - GET THEM THE FUGGIN BALL you idiot!
UCONN will NEVER win a national championship (and this from a UCONN graduate) with this guy at the point unless he figures this out. I am worried sick come March...
2.08.2006
Lunardi's Blind Spot
Continuing down this Duke - UConn thread, Joe Lunardi weighs in in Bracketology about UConn's non-conference SOS. In particular, he rips UConn (among others) for their light non-conference schedule. In UConn's case, it is the December "Tour of New England" I have written about before.
I am not sure if Lunardi's point is that the Selection Committee does things this way and he agrees with them or that the Selection Committee does things this way and he does not agree. I suspect it is the former because a) his schtick (Bracketology) requires him to anticipate the Committee and it helps if your biases are consistent with the Committee's and b) he just writes with such conviction on the subject.
So....
Duke sneaks past another conference opponent as UConn get set to play Syracuse tonight. Lunardi still gives the overall #1 seed to Duke and states "How close are UConn and Duke at this point? Both won at Indiana by exactly eight points." He clearly did not watch the two games. With Duke/Indiana, IU was actually up one with 6:40 left in the game and Duke's largest lead was around 10 points. With UConn/Indiana, Indiana got no closer then 6 and IU struggled to get back to the 8 point difference. But other then that, I guess the games were equal.
UConn has a tough schedule ahead: after Syracuse, they have a resurgent Seton Hall, two games against #4 'Nova, #10 West Virginia and Notre Dame. The chances of UConn winning all of these are small. Does that make them less worthy of a #1 seed?
I will again add that I think Duke (regardless of the strength of the ACC) and UConn are number 1 seeds at this point and am not sure EITHER Duke or UConn will cut down the nets in April, but come on Joe Lunardi you get paid to analyze not just read the box score and say "those teams are equal."
I am not sure if Lunardi's point is that the Selection Committee does things this way and he agrees with them or that the Selection Committee does things this way and he does not agree. I suspect it is the former because a) his schtick (Bracketology) requires him to anticipate the Committee and it helps if your biases are consistent with the Committee's and b) he just writes with such conviction on the subject.
So....
Duke sneaks past another conference opponent as UConn get set to play Syracuse tonight. Lunardi still gives the overall #1 seed to Duke and states "How close are UConn and Duke at this point? Both won at Indiana by exactly eight points." He clearly did not watch the two games. With Duke/Indiana, IU was actually up one with 6:40 left in the game and Duke's largest lead was around 10 points. With UConn/Indiana, Indiana got no closer then 6 and IU struggled to get back to the 8 point difference. But other then that, I guess the games were equal.
UConn has a tough schedule ahead: after Syracuse, they have a resurgent Seton Hall, two games against #4 'Nova, #10 West Virginia and Notre Dame. The chances of UConn winning all of these are small. Does that make them less worthy of a #1 seed?
I will again add that I think Duke (regardless of the strength of the ACC) and UConn are number 1 seeds at this point and am not sure EITHER Duke or UConn will cut down the nets in April, but come on Joe Lunardi you get paid to analyze not just read the box score and say "those teams are equal."
2.06.2006
Duke v. UConn 2
Nice to know the cognoscenti are catching up. Gregg Doyle jumps on the Tilam and Thew bandwagon.
In Boston, Duke blew a big lead. At home, Duke could not get 5 points of separation against Florida State. Andy Katz at ESPN says the close games will help Duke in the NCAAs. While I agree with the sentiment regarding BC, a Florida State-Duke match-up is like a second rounder. If the Blue Devils are having trouble getting to the Sweet 16, we are in a parallel world. I still think Duke is a Final Four team, but the "fear factor" of playing them this year is going away. I would also note that the Duke-BC crew are being reviewed for the non-call on Williams and the Duke-Florida State crew received a suspension for give FS a technical foul, Alexander Johnson's fifth (Williams picked up the T for bumping Johnson).
UConn's win at Indiana was not as close as the final score. UConn was giving up uncontested baskets at the end to run down the clock. Indiana made two great runs in the early first half and mid-way through the second half, but the outcome was never really in doubt. As Doyle says above, it was a 15 point game. But what was up with the refs??? In the very beginning of the IU comeback they must have blown (and I mean blown) about four or five calls in a row. I would not say that they were one way (though the offensive foul call against Rudy Gay on a defensive rebound was just nuts and hitting Killingsworth with his third foul at the time hurt IU). Not quite raising to the "suspicions of bribery" level of the pro-Duke calls, but WTF?
In Boston, Duke blew a big lead. At home, Duke could not get 5 points of separation against Florida State. Andy Katz at ESPN says the close games will help Duke in the NCAAs. While I agree with the sentiment regarding BC, a Florida State-Duke match-up is like a second rounder. If the Blue Devils are having trouble getting to the Sweet 16, we are in a parallel world. I still think Duke is a Final Four team, but the "fear factor" of playing them this year is going away. I would also note that the Duke-BC crew are being reviewed for the non-call on Williams and the Duke-Florida State crew received a suspension for give FS a technical foul, Alexander Johnson's fifth (Williams picked up the T for bumping Johnson).
UConn's win at Indiana was not as close as the final score. UConn was giving up uncontested baskets at the end to run down the clock. Indiana made two great runs in the early first half and mid-way through the second half, but the outcome was never really in doubt. As Doyle says above, it was a 15 point game. But what was up with the refs??? In the very beginning of the IU comeback they must have blown (and I mean blown) about four or five calls in a row. I would not say that they were one way (though the offensive foul call against Rudy Gay on a defensive rebound was just nuts and hitting Killingsworth with his third foul at the time hurt IU). Not quite raising to the "suspicions of bribery" level of the pro-Duke calls, but WTF?
Super Thoughts
Some post-Super Bowl thoughts:
1. Being a Northeasterner, the thought of Steelers-Seahawks Super Bowl was a bit - oh - boring. (Okay, Pittsburgh did strike my interest and gave a team to cheer on.) But I found myself watching until the last seconds. It was a fun Super Bowl. I did not really have a dog in this fight, notwithstanding my promise to root for Mrs. Thew's Steelers, so it was fun to watch. I was always hoping the losing team would come back.
2. The "better" team lost. The general sense of the two dozen sports fans at the party where I was, was that Seattle outplayed Pittsburgh. I think Hasselback outplayed Roethlisberger (67.8 rating v. 22.6!!) though I thought both quarterbacks showed real touchness. But there was also a general sense that Seattle did not go in for the kill. (Imagine if Jerramy Stevens could actually catch a pass.) Pittsburgh had Seattle's lunch on one play and one play only. But...who cares? What matters is the score at the end.
3. The Zebras determined the game...again. I do not think the Roethlisberger touchdown was the determining factor, but the holding call bring back the pass to Stevens and the personal foul on Hasselback really swung the momentum the other way.
4. Al Michaels and John Madden were good. Madden, especially, showed a glimpse of his former self and is made for the Super Bowl. Simply put, the Super Bowl is often a coaches duel and insight into coaching is what Madden does best. Most importantly, they did not distract from the game.
5. Finally, what the heck happened at the end of the game? Madden's advice was dead on. Get the points, onside kick and then shoot for the endzone. It was the only time I felt Hasselback was losing his composure and it was a bad time to do so.
1. Being a Northeasterner, the thought of Steelers-Seahawks Super Bowl was a bit - oh - boring. (Okay, Pittsburgh did strike my interest and gave a team to cheer on.) But I found myself watching until the last seconds. It was a fun Super Bowl. I did not really have a dog in this fight, notwithstanding my promise to root for Mrs. Thew's Steelers, so it was fun to watch. I was always hoping the losing team would come back.
2. The "better" team lost. The general sense of the two dozen sports fans at the party where I was, was that Seattle outplayed Pittsburgh. I think Hasselback outplayed Roethlisberger (67.8 rating v. 22.6!!) though I thought both quarterbacks showed real touchness. But there was also a general sense that Seattle did not go in for the kill. (Imagine if Jerramy Stevens could actually catch a pass.) Pittsburgh had Seattle's lunch on one play and one play only. But...who cares? What matters is the score at the end.
3. The Zebras determined the game...again. I do not think the Roethlisberger touchdown was the determining factor, but the holding call bring back the pass to Stevens and the personal foul on Hasselback really swung the momentum the other way.
4. Al Michaels and John Madden were good. Madden, especially, showed a glimpse of his former self and is made for the Super Bowl. Simply put, the Super Bowl is often a coaches duel and insight into coaching is what Madden does best. Most importantly, they did not distract from the game.
5. Finally, what the heck happened at the end of the game? Madden's advice was dead on. Get the points, onside kick and then shoot for the endzone. It was the only time I felt Hasselback was losing his composure and it was a bad time to do so.
2.03.2006
NCAA (cont)
I think Tilam is correct in this discussion as well. We've seen pretty much the best that Duke has to offer college hoops. UCONN is the enigma - we've seen pretty much the gamut of that talent EXCEPT for Mr UCONN, Rudy Gay. This guy is on cruise mode 90% of the time - if Calhoun can light a fire under his ass then look out world, he's gonna light it up. Take his all-college talent and put a mental outlook, approach, and edge in his head like the one in JJ Redick, and you have the concensus Player of the Year and a much better than average chance for UCONN to win it all. However, until Rudy Gay "gets it" and "the light goes on", UCONN will always be no more than a threat rather than a probably. Time will tell, but someone needs to say "Hey Rudy, bro, you aren't impressing the pro scouts with your easy going game, you need to ramp it up." But ultimately, no one can make Rudy Gay play except for Rudy Gay.
Welp, I might as well jump on the Super Bowl bandwagon. I'm routing for a good game, truth be told. I like Holmgren and Hasselbeck, and wouldn't mind seeing them bring a championship to Seattle because they are just a bunch of good guys. But I'm also a BIG fan of Troy Palamalauallslgau and Ben Rothleigshermsefersuger, and since Mrs Thew was born and raised in Pittsburgh, well, I really to keep my eyes on the faction markers.
OMG, so someone broker of celebrity porn (and a known broker, btw) is selling off a bunch of Paris Hilton's personal diaries and effects; some detailing Paris in various stages of undress and such. Like who hasn't see her like this before? My FAVORITE part of this is the fact that when these items were stored in a facility, a "bureaucratic snafu" resulted in payments for the storage unit not being credited to Paris. Like who the hell is going to believe that? Someone got paid a crap load of money so someone ELSE can get paid a crapload of money. Paris feels victimized. Get over yourself you useless waste of female bodyparts. You want fame, fortune, public visibility, etc, DEAL WITH IT and stop whining. Although frankly, you weren't impressive in that video, so I can't imagine what excitement anyone would get from this crap except for receiving the $20 million asking price.
On the "STUPID CONSUMER" front, A Louisiana man claims in a lawsuit that Apple's iPod music player can cause hearing loss in people who use it. The iPod players are "inherently defective in design and are not sufficiently adorned with adequate warnings regarding the likelihood of hearing loss," according to the complaint, filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in San Jose, California, on behalf of John Kiel Patterson, of Louisiana. HOW ABOUT TURNING DOWN THE VOLUME YOU STUPID MORON?! I cannot believe this will ever get to trial - if it does, then it just shows the assinine state of stupid consumers controlling products that are not used correctly - if you turn it up loud, you'll go deaf. Duh...
Here is a great story for Tilam. Hey dude, how would you like to have Ebola in your backyard?!
The boss calls, Thew out - see you on the flip side of the Steelers' victory.
Welp, I might as well jump on the Super Bowl bandwagon. I'm routing for a good game, truth be told. I like Holmgren and Hasselbeck, and wouldn't mind seeing them bring a championship to Seattle because they are just a bunch of good guys. But I'm also a BIG fan of Troy Palamalauallslgau and Ben Rothleigshermsefersuger, and since Mrs Thew was born and raised in Pittsburgh, well, I really to keep my eyes on the faction markers.
OMG, so someone broker of celebrity porn (and a known broker, btw) is selling off a bunch of Paris Hilton's personal diaries and effects; some detailing Paris in various stages of undress and such. Like who hasn't see her like this before? My FAVORITE part of this is the fact that when these items were stored in a facility, a "bureaucratic snafu" resulted in payments for the storage unit not being credited to Paris. Like who the hell is going to believe that? Someone got paid a crap load of money so someone ELSE can get paid a crapload of money. Paris feels victimized. Get over yourself you useless waste of female bodyparts. You want fame, fortune, public visibility, etc, DEAL WITH IT and stop whining. Although frankly, you weren't impressive in that video, so I can't imagine what excitement anyone would get from this crap except for receiving the $20 million asking price.
On the "STUPID CONSUMER" front, A Louisiana man claims in a lawsuit that Apple's iPod music player can cause hearing loss in people who use it. The iPod players are "inherently defective in design and are not sufficiently adorned with adequate warnings regarding the likelihood of hearing loss," according to the complaint, filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in San Jose, California, on behalf of John Kiel Patterson, of Louisiana. HOW ABOUT TURNING DOWN THE VOLUME YOU STUPID MORON?! I cannot believe this will ever get to trial - if it does, then it just shows the assinine state of stupid consumers controlling products that are not used correctly - if you turn it up loud, you'll go deaf. Duh...
Here is a great story for Tilam. Hey dude, how would you like to have Ebola in your backyard?!
The boss calls, Thew out - see you on the flip side of the Steelers' victory.
Duke vs. UConn
It is amusing to read the "Power Rankings" and "Power 16" analysis on SI and ESPN respectively. Duke or UConn, UConn or Duke as number 1. I humbly submit that this is an interesting question, but there is still a better then even chance that NEITHER one will cut down the nets in April.
Duke or UConn? In Duke's favor are simply two things: J.J. Reddick and Sheldon Williams. Andy Katz says that Duke's resume is stronger, but I do see that as the case. Duke should should have lost the BC game. The no-call saved them. The only thing on Duke's resume that is impressive is the win over Texas (more impressive at the time though then now). They beat Indiana at IU by 8 when the Hoosiers were getting their act together and beat Memphis by 3 at Cameron. And they lost to Georgetown at GTown. Duke is mopping up the ACC, but the ACC is less impressive this year. But Reddick and Williams are money.
UConn has beat Gonzaga on a neutral court and Pitt by 4 in Hartford. UConn also beat Arizona at a neutral court, though time has deminished the significance of that win. UConn's loss came at Marquette on Marcus Williams' first game back. UConn is the far deeper team, but there is no clear go-to guy. Rudy Gay clearly has the potential but has been inconsistent. UConn is also playing a much tougher conference schedule then Duke.
As an aside, don't throw UConn's December schedule in its face. In the Calhoun era, December is about touring New England and giving teams that would NEVER have the chance to play a top ranked team the opportunity. Calhoun does not do it to play a soft schedule, but does it to "spread the wealth." This same pundits will be lamenting the fact that the mid-majors and smaller conferences "never get the chance" to play the big boys, so never get any respect come March. You can't have it both ways.
So who is the best team?
Two weeks ago, I felt it was Duke by a nose. Now I feel that in 10 games, the teams would split 5-5. In two weeks, I think UConn will be better by a nose. In summary, I think Duke is as good as they will get, UConn has more room to get better.
That said, I think there are several team that have the opportunity to cut down the nets: 'Nova, Illinois, Texas, Pitt, West Virginia, Michigan State. I do not think Memphis will do it because CUSA is just the wrong training ground for the NCAAs. (That said, Memphis is far more likely to be there then Gonzaga.)
Of course, there is still a lot of basketball to play.
Duke or UConn? In Duke's favor are simply two things: J.J. Reddick and Sheldon Williams. Andy Katz says that Duke's resume is stronger, but I do see that as the case. Duke should should have lost the BC game. The no-call saved them. The only thing on Duke's resume that is impressive is the win over Texas (more impressive at the time though then now). They beat Indiana at IU by 8 when the Hoosiers were getting their act together and beat Memphis by 3 at Cameron. And they lost to Georgetown at GTown. Duke is mopping up the ACC, but the ACC is less impressive this year. But Reddick and Williams are money.
UConn has beat Gonzaga on a neutral court and Pitt by 4 in Hartford. UConn also beat Arizona at a neutral court, though time has deminished the significance of that win. UConn's loss came at Marquette on Marcus Williams' first game back. UConn is the far deeper team, but there is no clear go-to guy. Rudy Gay clearly has the potential but has been inconsistent. UConn is also playing a much tougher conference schedule then Duke.
As an aside, don't throw UConn's December schedule in its face. In the Calhoun era, December is about touring New England and giving teams that would NEVER have the chance to play a top ranked team the opportunity. Calhoun does not do it to play a soft schedule, but does it to "spread the wealth." This same pundits will be lamenting the fact that the mid-majors and smaller conferences "never get the chance" to play the big boys, so never get any respect come March. You can't have it both ways.
So who is the best team?
Two weeks ago, I felt it was Duke by a nose. Now I feel that in 10 games, the teams would split 5-5. In two weeks, I think UConn will be better by a nose. In summary, I think Duke is as good as they will get, UConn has more room to get better.
That said, I think there are several team that have the opportunity to cut down the nets: 'Nova, Illinois, Texas, Pitt, West Virginia, Michigan State. I do not think Memphis will do it because CUSA is just the wrong training ground for the NCAAs. (That said, Memphis is far more likely to be there then Gonzaga.)
Of course, there is still a lot of basketball to play.
2.01.2006
No Mas Hamas Redux
In looking over the last post, I am pretty sure that I did not explain my first sentence. How it is the best possible outcome?
Basically, reality wins and now Hamas and the West will have to face the reality of the choice of Hamas as the governing party. It also exposes the power of democracy: the "peaceful" ascendance of a non-peaceful party. How much the tyrannies of the Middle East will learn is debatable, but it certainly has made an (continued) impression on the masses. Now what happens if Hamas reverts to dictatorship? Simply put, Hamas cannot hide.
I am less concerned about the Palestinian-Israeli relations. Hamas is no match for the IDF and if they continue to misbehave, the Israelis will smack them down. Sharon (late, but to his credit) correctly decided to implement his version of peace based on the reality of the eventual (two-state) outcome. Certainly 2005 was the right time to do this under Israel's terms. It is unclear that the near future would offer that opportunity.
This is definitely the "dog catches the car" moment for Hamas. Oh shit, now what do I do?
UPDATE: One interesting dynamic here is that the Palestinians will hopefully see the consequences of their actions. The apologists in the West have been doing everything they can to avoid this, but now there should be no option. They have been behaving like petulant children in desperate need of adult supervision (the Palestinians, not the Western apologists...wait, nevermind) and now it is time to grow up. You want a nation and respect? Earn it.
Basically, reality wins and now Hamas and the West will have to face the reality of the choice of Hamas as the governing party. It also exposes the power of democracy: the "peaceful" ascendance of a non-peaceful party. How much the tyrannies of the Middle East will learn is debatable, but it certainly has made an (continued) impression on the masses. Now what happens if Hamas reverts to dictatorship? Simply put, Hamas cannot hide.
I am less concerned about the Palestinian-Israeli relations. Hamas is no match for the IDF and if they continue to misbehave, the Israelis will smack them down. Sharon (late, but to his credit) correctly decided to implement his version of peace based on the reality of the eventual (two-state) outcome. Certainly 2005 was the right time to do this under Israel's terms. It is unclear that the near future would offer that opportunity.
This is definitely the "dog catches the car" moment for Hamas. Oh shit, now what do I do?
UPDATE: One interesting dynamic here is that the Palestinians will hopefully see the consequences of their actions. The apologists in the West have been doing everything they can to avoid this, but now there should be no option. They have been behaving like petulant children in desperate need of adult supervision (the Palestinians, not the Western apologists...wait, nevermind) and now it is time to grow up. You want a nation and respect? Earn it.
1.31.2006
No Mas Hamas?
The Hamas victory in the Palestinian elections represents - simply - the best possible outcome for the future of the Middle East.
This is not to say it is a step forward. (I do not think so, but time will tell.) But it is clarifying. Hamas will have to make choices that will have consequences for their people and themselves. (I am sure there are a few school girl giddy Israeli generals contemplating the idea of being able to decapitate the leadership in one fell swoop. "And I commit to you that we will engage in more suicide bombing to destroy the Zionist oppres... Boom.) The West contributes $9 out of $10 to the Palestinian authority. Well, used to. How do you pay those suicide bombers now? Further, there is still a heavily armed internal resistance - Fatah.
It is a kluge.
And contrary to the fantasy world of the Left, the Palestinians are generally considered the scum of the Arab world BY THE ARABS. (In my Mid East dealings, I have heard a racial slur beginning with "n" used when talking about the Palestinians. OUCH!)
I suspect, though, the reality will be much of the same with Fatah and Hamas exchanging roles. Hamas will "fix the potholes" and Fatah will supply the suicide bombers. It will take these organizations awhile to realize this, but they both have too much "invested" in Terror, Inc. to back out now.
Of course, the West encourages this, so why change?
This is not to say it is a step forward. (I do not think so, but time will tell.) But it is clarifying. Hamas will have to make choices that will have consequences for their people and themselves. (I am sure there are a few school girl giddy Israeli generals contemplating the idea of being able to decapitate the leadership in one fell swoop. "And I commit to you that we will engage in more suicide bombing to destroy the Zionist oppres... Boom.) The West contributes $9 out of $10 to the Palestinian authority. Well, used to. How do you pay those suicide bombers now? Further, there is still a heavily armed internal resistance - Fatah.
It is a kluge.
And contrary to the fantasy world of the Left, the Palestinians are generally considered the scum of the Arab world BY THE ARABS. (In my Mid East dealings, I have heard a racial slur beginning with "n" used when talking about the Palestinians. OUCH!)
I suspect, though, the reality will be much of the same with Fatah and Hamas exchanging roles. Hamas will "fix the potholes" and Fatah will supply the suicide bombers. It will take these organizations awhile to realize this, but they both have too much "invested" in Terror, Inc. to back out now.
Of course, the West encourages this, so why change?
1.17.2006
I've Seen Tilam's Sister
She could use a makeover, so getting a "sister kiss" is a truly, umm, less-than-exciting experience.
Steelers over Colts...wow, I was rooting for a good game, but in the midst of the exciting second half, the zebra MISSED the call badly. I have NO earthly idea what the heck that referee was looking at on the replay, but it sure wasn't that game. At that point, I shifted alliance to pull for the Steelers. And that is NOT because Mrs Thew is from Pittsburgh and I was hoping to get a little play. You just hate to see a game decided by a bad referee call. I can only imagine what the fallout would have been had Indy won the game.
Kudos to Mike Vanderjagt. He basically said "i missed it, there are no excuses, i get paid to make those kicks and i didn't perform". But I have to feel bad for him, he was complete jinxed the minute that the announcers said "Mike Vanderjagt is the most accurate kicker in NFL history". Don't those morons understand karma?
Denver over NE...ick, ugly Patriot game. But I tell you, it goes to show you what Jake the Snake Plummer can do with a quality supporting cast around him.
Upcoming weekend, I have to go with Pittsburgh's "we have destiny on our side" attitude, I think that Jake will fold a bit under the pressure of a championship game.
I tell you, I'm worried about Carolina if I'm a Seattle fan. Can anyone stop Steve Smith? As much as I'd like to see Seattle win, I have a feeling that Carolina will pull it off because they've been there and won it before. Heart goes with the Seahawks, but the betting head goes with Carolina.
So I guess in Thew's world, it's a Steelers-Panthers Super Bowl.
Peyton Manning get's the "whiner of the week award" for calling out his o-line and saying "we had a lot of trouble with protection". Umm, hello, did you notice the fact that you sucked? Maybe the o-line should say "well, we had some trouble at the QB position". Will Indy ever win "the big one"? Hmm, not sure after this year - without NE in their way, they still looked rusty and like a bunch of rookies, and basically screwed the pooch and didn't look in sync doing it. Thew wonders how many more opportunities they'll get - and Thew MUST agree with Tilam on his point; DO NOT rest the starters, you need to continue to work together and keep on the roll.
In other sports news, Terry O'Neill proved that he is a TRUE FAN. Check this out.
The best NHL team you've never heard of - yup, my Carolina Hurricanes, #1 in the league.
Thew out...
Steelers over Colts...wow, I was rooting for a good game, but in the midst of the exciting second half, the zebra MISSED the call badly. I have NO earthly idea what the heck that referee was looking at on the replay, but it sure wasn't that game. At that point, I shifted alliance to pull for the Steelers. And that is NOT because Mrs Thew is from Pittsburgh and I was hoping to get a little play. You just hate to see a game decided by a bad referee call. I can only imagine what the fallout would have been had Indy won the game.
Kudos to Mike Vanderjagt. He basically said "i missed it, there are no excuses, i get paid to make those kicks and i didn't perform". But I have to feel bad for him, he was complete jinxed the minute that the announcers said "Mike Vanderjagt is the most accurate kicker in NFL history". Don't those morons understand karma?
Denver over NE...ick, ugly Patriot game. But I tell you, it goes to show you what Jake the Snake Plummer can do with a quality supporting cast around him.
Upcoming weekend, I have to go with Pittsburgh's "we have destiny on our side" attitude, I think that Jake will fold a bit under the pressure of a championship game.
I tell you, I'm worried about Carolina if I'm a Seattle fan. Can anyone stop Steve Smith? As much as I'd like to see Seattle win, I have a feeling that Carolina will pull it off because they've been there and won it before. Heart goes with the Seahawks, but the betting head goes with Carolina.
So I guess in Thew's world, it's a Steelers-Panthers Super Bowl.
Peyton Manning get's the "whiner of the week award" for calling out his o-line and saying "we had a lot of trouble with protection". Umm, hello, did you notice the fact that you sucked? Maybe the o-line should say "well, we had some trouble at the QB position". Will Indy ever win "the big one"? Hmm, not sure after this year - without NE in their way, they still looked rusty and like a bunch of rookies, and basically screwed the pooch and didn't look in sync doing it. Thew wonders how many more opportunities they'll get - and Thew MUST agree with Tilam on his point; DO NOT rest the starters, you need to continue to work together and keep on the roll.
In other sports news, Terry O'Neill proved that he is a TRUE FAN. Check this out.
The best NHL team you've never heard of - yup, my Carolina Hurricanes, #1 in the league.
Thew out...
1.16.2006
A Sister Kiss
Okay, 2 out of 4. Seattle and Carolina advance, while NE and Indy do not.
NE just stunk. Enough said. Indy was doomed, I just was surprised it was the Steelers (who played very well, no knock intended on them).
I was pulling for Indy until they mailed it in the last two weeks. The Bye Week is meant to have you recuperate, not weeks 16 and 17. I understand the injury concern, but Manning played like he hadn't played in a nearly a month...which, well, he hadn't. Better luck next year.
The rookie quarterbacks (Manning, Simms, Grossman, Leftwich) performed unsurprisingly bad. (Carson Palmer never had a chance to break the trend.) But watching NE play this weekend was painful. Uncharacteristically sloppy. Brady, Vinatieri, Brown should have shown much more poise. Tom Brady throws for 341 yards and the Pats only score 13? Shows what 5 (count'em, 5) turnovers can do to your Super Bowl hopes.
As for next week, I still think Seattle will win and I expect Denver to be there also. But I think these are evenly matched teams.
NE just stunk. Enough said. Indy was doomed, I just was surprised it was the Steelers (who played very well, no knock intended on them).
I was pulling for Indy until they mailed it in the last two weeks. The Bye Week is meant to have you recuperate, not weeks 16 and 17. I understand the injury concern, but Manning played like he hadn't played in a nearly a month...which, well, he hadn't. Better luck next year.
The rookie quarterbacks (Manning, Simms, Grossman, Leftwich) performed unsurprisingly bad. (Carson Palmer never had a chance to break the trend.) But watching NE play this weekend was painful. Uncharacteristically sloppy. Brady, Vinatieri, Brown should have shown much more poise. Tom Brady throws for 341 yards and the Pats only score 13? Shows what 5 (count'em, 5) turnovers can do to your Super Bowl hopes.
As for next week, I still think Seattle will win and I expect Denver to be there also. But I think these are evenly matched teams.
1.13.2006
House Majority Leader
There is a battle brewing that the liberal main stream press do not give two bits about, but could be the most important battle in the last dozen years. With Tom DeLay resigning as Majority Leader in the House, there is an election for the new Majority Leader. The current candidates are Roy Blunt (MO), John Boehner (OH) and John Shadegg (AZ).
The reason this is important is that the Majority Leader in the House has a tremendous influence on the legislative agenda. (Bills are introduced only in the House, not the Senate.) Given the Abramoff "scandal" (which looms large) and, more importantly, the lack of fiscal discipline shown by the republicans recently, this may turn out to be critically important in the 2006 mid-term races.
In my humble opinion, Shadegg and maybe Boehner have the potential to be the next Newt Gingrich in terms of influencing reform. Roy Blunt has a ways to go to convince me that he is serious about reform.
Real conservatives (in the classic Reaganite mold) need to flex some muscles in the Republican Party. The current leadership is looking an awful lot like Jim Wright and the Democrats of the early 90s - and we know what happened there.
Stop the pork, stop the obscene level of spending growth, start being conservative again.
The reason this is important is that the Majority Leader in the House has a tremendous influence on the legislative agenda. (Bills are introduced only in the House, not the Senate.) Given the Abramoff "scandal" (which looms large) and, more importantly, the lack of fiscal discipline shown by the republicans recently, this may turn out to be critically important in the 2006 mid-term races.
In my humble opinion, Shadegg and maybe Boehner have the potential to be the next Newt Gingrich in terms of influencing reform. Roy Blunt has a ways to go to convince me that he is serious about reform.
Real conservatives (in the classic Reaganite mold) need to flex some muscles in the Republican Party. The current leadership is looking an awful lot like Jim Wright and the Democrats of the early 90s - and we know what happened there.
Stop the pork, stop the obscene level of spending growth, start being conservative again.
Today we mourn...
We mourn the passing of yet ANOTHER opportunity for the LPGA's resident side show freak, Michelle Wie, to make the cut at a men's event. I have stated this before, she NEEDS to win and prove that she can compete on the ladies tour before she make so many efforts at making the cut on the men's tour. Pretty soon, the sponsor's invites are going to stop coming in - yesterday she posted an embarassing 79 (good for the rest of us shluffs though), good enough for DEAD LAST. Michelle, take a step back, take a deep breath, and get out of the spotlight. It is shining too brightly on you and it is too hot. Stay in your OWN sandbox for a while, competing against the likes of Annika, Morgan, Paula, and the rest of the top notch players on the LPGA tour is going to harden your skill and mental game enough to where you will make a cut on the men's tour. Until then you are just a circus act, and a failure at that.
We mourn the passing of Marcus Vick's NFL contract and big signing bonus.
We mourn the passing of Steve Francis' class and professionalism, for refusing to enter a game with his team getting their asses kicked.
We mourn (and celebrate) the passing of NY Rangers' jersey number 11, aptly retired, never to be used again by anyone not named Messier.
We mourn the passing of the USC bullets, Leinart, Bush, and White...good luck at the next level boys.
We mourn the passing of Marcus Vick's NFL contract and big signing bonus.
We mourn the passing of Steve Francis' class and professionalism, for refusing to enter a game with his team getting their asses kicked.
We mourn (and celebrate) the passing of NY Rangers' jersey number 11, aptly retired, never to be used again by anyone not named Messier.
We mourn the passing of the USC bullets, Leinart, Bush, and White...good luck at the next level boys.
1.12.2006
Common Sense Round-up of Other News
James Frey and Oprah: Okay, this is another scandal I have a tough time with. Frey exaggerated and made stuff up and called it non-fiction. Oprah was moved. Random House offers to refund money based on a misrepresentation of the genre. The fur flies. Sales pop.
I am not sure why I should give a crap. If the story is moving (it was for Oprah) and offers a powerful message (no argument that it does), what is the scandal? I guess Frey tried to peddle it as a fiction novel first, but did not get a bite. SO, he did what any recovering addict/convict would do and bent the truth a bit. In the realm of things he has done, I assume it was not a great leap.
Fiction represented as fact? Frey has got a future with the NY Times.
NSA: The only people who have their knickers in a bunch on this question are a) those with something to hide and b) partisan political opponents. This is one of those "scandals" that display the hypocrisy of the NY Times to its utmost. Does the NY Times really believe that the Echelon program is a grave threat to civil liberties? As you might suspect, it depends on who is President?
Sam Alito: We need to have a bit of a reality check here. Notwithstanding the high profile judicial appointments and a few sensational judicial rulings (such as 6 months jail term for child molestation because the judge now believes "punishment does not work") the VAST majority of judges, whether from the liberal or conservative side of the political spectrum, are like Sam Alito: hard working, conscientious and apolitical on the bench. Since they are like the rest of America (just doing their jobs), they do not make the news. It is the trend toward SEEKING activist judges that has caused such a sensation and has conservatives (who do not like judicial activism) in an uproar and Democrats (who are projecting their own agenda) desperate to block any conservative. But even so, the judiciary is, by and large, incredibly professional and understand that it is the legislature that sets the laws, not judges.
The confirmation spectacle gives a very different (and incorrect) version of reality.
UPDATE: Lots of typos to correct. And that was before the Friday afternoon Scotch...
I am not sure why I should give a crap. If the story is moving (it was for Oprah) and offers a powerful message (no argument that it does), what is the scandal? I guess Frey tried to peddle it as a fiction novel first, but did not get a bite. SO, he did what any recovering addict/convict would do and bent the truth a bit. In the realm of things he has done, I assume it was not a great leap.
Fiction represented as fact? Frey has got a future with the NY Times.
NSA: The only people who have their knickers in a bunch on this question are a) those with something to hide and b) partisan political opponents. This is one of those "scandals" that display the hypocrisy of the NY Times to its utmost. Does the NY Times really believe that the Echelon program is a grave threat to civil liberties? As you might suspect, it depends on who is President?
Sam Alito: We need to have a bit of a reality check here. Notwithstanding the high profile judicial appointments and a few sensational judicial rulings (such as 6 months jail term for child molestation because the judge now believes "punishment does not work") the VAST majority of judges, whether from the liberal or conservative side of the political spectrum, are like Sam Alito: hard working, conscientious and apolitical on the bench. Since they are like the rest of America (just doing their jobs), they do not make the news. It is the trend toward SEEKING activist judges that has caused such a sensation and has conservatives (who do not like judicial activism) in an uproar and Democrats (who are projecting their own agenda) desperate to block any conservative. But even so, the judiciary is, by and large, incredibly professional and understand that it is the legislature that sets the laws, not judges.
The confirmation spectacle gives a very different (and incorrect) version of reality.
UPDATE: Lots of typos to correct. And that was before the Friday afternoon Scotch...
1.11.2006
Marcus Vick
Well, that did not take long... Marcus Vick arrested for pulling a gun on some students who were taunting him. PULLING A GUN!
WTF? You simply have to shake your head and wonder what is going on in this kid's head. What the hell is he carrying a gun for? For Mo Clarett, it was a matter of months before he went from football loser to criminal. Marcus Vick did it in days.
BTW, if he manages to rehabilitate himself from this, someone should mention to him that there are a few defensive linemen in the NFL who might say an unkind word to him while he is over center. I hope his feelings won't be hurt...
WTF? You simply have to shake your head and wonder what is going on in this kid's head. What the hell is he carrying a gun for? For Mo Clarett, it was a matter of months before he went from football loser to criminal. Marcus Vick did it in days.
BTW, if he manages to rehabilitate himself from this, someone should mention to him that there are a few defensive linemen in the NFL who might say an unkind word to him while he is over center. I hope his feelings won't be hurt...
1.09.2006
Puking Crow
Is this the opposite of eating crow?
A wise man once said, "I am a big believer in experience and coaching in the playoffs. That would make Washington, New England, Carolina and Pittsburgh winners this weekend." That wise man was me and that is Trip 4s for all you. (Four for four.)
I was especially sorry to see the G-men lose, but Eli is just not there yet. Four turnovers (3 picks and a fumble) in his post-season debut. I can say, though, that it will not be like this the next time.
Of course, I am too stupid to declare victory and walk away, so this week I see Indy, NE, Carolina and Seattle.
A wise man once said, "I am a big believer in experience and coaching in the playoffs. That would make Washington, New England, Carolina and Pittsburgh winners this weekend." That wise man was me and that is Trip 4s for all you. (Four for four.)
I was especially sorry to see the G-men lose, but Eli is just not there yet. Four turnovers (3 picks and a fumble) in his post-season debut. I can say, though, that it will not be like this the next time.
Of course, I am too stupid to declare victory and walk away, so this week I see Indy, NE, Carolina and Seattle.
1.06.2006
Some People Just Shouldn't Procreate
Latest breaking news...Marcus Vick was unceremoniously tossed off the Va Tech football team for a string of asshole-ish behavior. Frankly, if I'm Michael, I'm taking his stupid ass out behind the treeline, where there are no witnesses, and giving him a whoopin. Goodbye round 1 of the NFL draft for that dumbass.
I'm sorry that Tilam leaves the college football predictions to me, cuz I seem to such at them. PSU over FSU was spot on, although it took a couple of tries. But USC? OMG, where do I start? The brain-fart of Reggie Bush's lateral? The assinine decision to go for it on 4th and 2 at MIDFIELD instead of punting (hey Pete, vY has been lighting you up all night, why give him a 30 yard head start?)? The stupid mistake of the "incidental face mask" penalty, giving Texas 5 yards after they fell 4 yards short? Sheesh. Good thing I wasn't a betting man...
Vince Young...not going to make it big in the bigs. Ultimately, he's a true Vick prototype, but you sense as he plays the game that he progresses through his reads way too quickly, then abandons, improvises, and usually runs the ball. Wait, same as Vick. Atheletes? Yes. Weapons? Yup. Quarterbacks? Nah. Prove me wrong...
Matt Leinart? He's a talent, but ultimately he has just shown that he can't win the "big one" against a tough, fast, and athletic defense. With a first half performance like that, I'm surprised his stock hasn't fallen a bit. But I think he'll be a good quality NFL QB.
Parenting...man, I have no idea where to start with this discussion. These days it seems that parents want to be their kids' best friend, not a parent. I know parents who allow their kids to sip beer at FOUR YEARS OLD! Other parents who let their kids drink at their house because "it's better than going out and drinking and driving". Unbelievable. Then, there's the ghastly example of the mother in NW USA who actually SPONSORED alcohol and sex parties for her high school son, even to the point of having sex with his friends! WHAT THE F**K? Did these people lose 100 point of IQ or all their common sense? I shake my head and just ponder the idiocy of it all. Where was euthanisa when you needed it for these people?
I'm sorry that Tilam leaves the college football predictions to me, cuz I seem to such at them. PSU over FSU was spot on, although it took a couple of tries. But USC? OMG, where do I start? The brain-fart of Reggie Bush's lateral? The assinine decision to go for it on 4th and 2 at MIDFIELD instead of punting (hey Pete, vY has been lighting you up all night, why give him a 30 yard head start?)? The stupid mistake of the "incidental face mask" penalty, giving Texas 5 yards after they fell 4 yards short? Sheesh. Good thing I wasn't a betting man...
Vince Young...not going to make it big in the bigs. Ultimately, he's a true Vick prototype, but you sense as he plays the game that he progresses through his reads way too quickly, then abandons, improvises, and usually runs the ball. Wait, same as Vick. Atheletes? Yes. Weapons? Yup. Quarterbacks? Nah. Prove me wrong...
Matt Leinart? He's a talent, but ultimately he has just shown that he can't win the "big one" against a tough, fast, and athletic defense. With a first half performance like that, I'm surprised his stock hasn't fallen a bit. But I think he'll be a good quality NFL QB.
Parenting...man, I have no idea where to start with this discussion. These days it seems that parents want to be their kids' best friend, not a parent. I know parents who allow their kids to sip beer at FOUR YEARS OLD! Other parents who let their kids drink at their house because "it's better than going out and drinking and driving". Unbelievable. Then, there's the ghastly example of the mother in NW USA who actually SPONSORED alcohol and sex parties for her high school son, even to the point of having sex with his friends! WHAT THE F**K? Did these people lose 100 point of IQ or all their common sense? I shake my head and just ponder the idiocy of it all. Where was euthanisa when you needed it for these people?
First New Year's Musings
I will leave all the NCAAFB predictions to Thew. I simply do not follow college football enough to opine. (I can hear it now..."that has not stopped you from blabbering about everything else")
UConn: Ouch. Nothing you can say about that. Time will tell if it was indicative of the talent or a character building fluke. What does not seem to be a fluke is Rudy Gay's performance. If that guy does not want to stay in college for another year, he better start stepping up. If he goes 3 for 12 with 5 turnovers with regularity he can kiss the first round (and the first round $$$) good bye.
Clarett: Stupid is as stupid does. It just shows that the guy was born for prison, it just took him a while to figure it out.
Lesbian Cheerleaders: Whatever happen to the girls? A quick Google search does not turn up anything new. Dang.
Herm Edwards: Seems to be the choice for the Chiefs. Herm make be a very good coach, but it not obvious to me that he is. Sure, the Jets had a wasted year with injuries and whatnot, but injuries are part of the game, and isn't a great coach someone who can overcome those obstacles? We'll see and good luck to him.
NFL Playoffs: I am a big believer in experience and coaching in the playoffs. That would make Washington, New England, Carolina and Pittsburgh winners this weekend.
Super Bowl: Current feeling is New England v. Seattle.
Taking Week 17 Off: What the hell was this trend of the top teams rolling over in the final week? Okay, okay, I hear you: why risk injuries in a meaningless game. But come on. Bunch of pussies.
Local News Goes National: A local story has hit it big: the Murphy sisters were two popular local girls who were killed when the older sister wrapped her folks Landrover 10 feet up a telephone pole in town. Read the story for why, in trying to keep the details private, it has blown up into national news.
There, of course, is a backstory here. One that noone seems to want to discuss and is frankly causing passions to flare in town. (Technically in two towns as we share a "regional" high school.) These sweet, young girls were part of a "group" of high school students were drinking was a major part of their lives. Okay. Fine. Now for the "no one shall discuss it" part: this culture was (and is) encouraged by a group of parents. (I am NOT saying the Murphys were part of this...I have no first hand knowledge of their attitudes or knowledge towards their daughters' drinking. But I am saying that it is "common knowledge" around town that certain parents are involved.)
It is unclear why the parents are not being responsible here: maybe because they do not want to seem "uncool" (Which is a big problem, because most of the parents I know around here WERE uncool in HS and seem to be over compensating with their kids.) But the fact is, these parents are playing roulette with their kid's lives. Further, I would like to say this is an isolated incident, but it is not either in the region or even at our HS. Unfortunately, it will not be the last time this happens.
When I was in high school, the legal age was 18. We did not lose any students to drunk driving. I have asked a number of early 40s adults and drunk driving fatalities were very rare in HS. A fluke? A sign of today's greater access to cars? Maybe, but I would posit that our parties had a lot more adult supervision. Nowadays, kids hide and sneak alcohol. Frankly, they are simple not responsible or mature enough to conduct this "clandestine" activity.
Now the drinking age is 21. I do not agree with this, but it is the law and I expect my kids (who are not yet 18) to live by it. Further, I expect the parents of my kids' friends to live by it. Unfortunately, there is a fair amount who don't.
Early indications are that no adult will held responsible. I only hope that this changes in the future. If not, this tragic story will be repeated.
UConn: Ouch. Nothing you can say about that. Time will tell if it was indicative of the talent or a character building fluke. What does not seem to be a fluke is Rudy Gay's performance. If that guy does not want to stay in college for another year, he better start stepping up. If he goes 3 for 12 with 5 turnovers with regularity he can kiss the first round (and the first round $$$) good bye.
Clarett: Stupid is as stupid does. It just shows that the guy was born for prison, it just took him a while to figure it out.
Lesbian Cheerleaders: Whatever happen to the girls? A quick Google search does not turn up anything new. Dang.
Herm Edwards: Seems to be the choice for the Chiefs. Herm make be a very good coach, but it not obvious to me that he is. Sure, the Jets had a wasted year with injuries and whatnot, but injuries are part of the game, and isn't a great coach someone who can overcome those obstacles? We'll see and good luck to him.
NFL Playoffs: I am a big believer in experience and coaching in the playoffs. That would make Washington, New England, Carolina and Pittsburgh winners this weekend.
Super Bowl: Current feeling is New England v. Seattle.
Taking Week 17 Off: What the hell was this trend of the top teams rolling over in the final week? Okay, okay, I hear you: why risk injuries in a meaningless game. But come on. Bunch of pussies.
Local News Goes National: A local story has hit it big: the Murphy sisters were two popular local girls who were killed when the older sister wrapped her folks Landrover 10 feet up a telephone pole in town. Read the story for why, in trying to keep the details private, it has blown up into national news.
There, of course, is a backstory here. One that noone seems to want to discuss and is frankly causing passions to flare in town. (Technically in two towns as we share a "regional" high school.) These sweet, young girls were part of a "group" of high school students were drinking was a major part of their lives. Okay. Fine. Now for the "no one shall discuss it" part: this culture was (and is) encouraged by a group of parents. (I am NOT saying the Murphys were part of this...I have no first hand knowledge of their attitudes or knowledge towards their daughters' drinking. But I am saying that it is "common knowledge" around town that certain parents are involved.)
It is unclear why the parents are not being responsible here: maybe because they do not want to seem "uncool" (Which is a big problem, because most of the parents I know around here WERE uncool in HS and seem to be over compensating with their kids.) But the fact is, these parents are playing roulette with their kid's lives. Further, I would like to say this is an isolated incident, but it is not either in the region or even at our HS. Unfortunately, it will not be the last time this happens.
When I was in high school, the legal age was 18. We did not lose any students to drunk driving. I have asked a number of early 40s adults and drunk driving fatalities were very rare in HS. A fluke? A sign of today's greater access to cars? Maybe, but I would posit that our parties had a lot more adult supervision. Nowadays, kids hide and sneak alcohol. Frankly, they are simple not responsible or mature enough to conduct this "clandestine" activity.
Now the drinking age is 21. I do not agree with this, but it is the law and I expect my kids (who are not yet 18) to live by it. Further, I expect the parents of my kids' friends to live by it. Unfortunately, there is a fair amount who don't.
Early indications are that no adult will held responsible. I only hope that this changes in the future. If not, this tragic story will be repeated.
1.03.2006
Not all THAT bad on predictions...
*burp*
Time to chow on some (not too much) humble pie...
Alabama - gotta remember that defense wins
Florida - Urban Meyer is the real deal
VA Tech - whoa, got this one right
Wisconsin - bye Barry, we'll miss ya :)
Ohio State - BAH, they killed me
Georgia - no comment...
Okay, I got 2 more chances to look marginally intelligent - PSU over FSU and USC over the 'Horns.
Time to chow on some (not too much) humble pie...
Alabama - gotta remember that defense wins
Florida - Urban Meyer is the real deal
VA Tech - whoa, got this one right
Wisconsin - bye Barry, we'll miss ya :)
Ohio State - BAH, they killed me
Georgia - no comment...
Okay, I got 2 more chances to look marginally intelligent - PSU over FSU and USC over the 'Horns.
1.02.2006
Musing of the Big Bowl Day
We have a victory! We have redepmtion! We have Maurice Clarett arrested for robbery! You know, as much as I hate to say it, "time and public opinion prove us right, as always". Clarett is the poster boy for the...well, hell, the list goes on. You know the deal, spoiled punk athelete who has NOTHING besides his (lack of) talent to carry him forward, head up his ass, thinking he deserves everything. Now he's got nothing but his gang friends and a criminal record (see: Todd Marinovich, Ryan Leaf). We are redeemed here at Tilam's blog. :)
Charlie Weis won the Eddie Robinson award as the nation's top college coach. Who is against this? A great coach won the award named for a great man and coach. Perfect.
Thew's college bowl predictions:
Cotton Bowl - Texas Tech over Alabama
Outback Bowl - the Australians (both Iowa and Florida suck)
Gator Bowl - VA Tech (much as I hate to root for anyone named Vick) over Louisville
Capital One - Wisconsin over Auburn
Fiesta Bowl - Irish over Buckeyes
Sugar Bowl - GA over West Va (go DAWGS!)
Orange Bowl - Not sure how FSU got into this one, but Penn State will send 'em home unhappy
Rose Bowl - the advertisers and networks - USC will finish in second place, Texas in third (too one dimensional, even though Vince Young is a college football stud who won't amount to much in the pros)
Tilam and I are still (mostly) on the same page, the NFL is still Seahawks-Colts in the championship game. Look out for the Giants and Patriots, they have potential. All others are pretenders...
Charlie Weis won the Eddie Robinson award as the nation's top college coach. Who is against this? A great coach won the award named for a great man and coach. Perfect.
Thew's college bowl predictions:
Cotton Bowl - Texas Tech over Alabama
Outback Bowl - the Australians (both Iowa and Florida suck)
Gator Bowl - VA Tech (much as I hate to root for anyone named Vick) over Louisville
Capital One - Wisconsin over Auburn
Fiesta Bowl - Irish over Buckeyes
Sugar Bowl - GA over West Va (go DAWGS!)
Orange Bowl - Not sure how FSU got into this one, but Penn State will send 'em home unhappy
Rose Bowl - the advertisers and networks - USC will finish in second place, Texas in third (too one dimensional, even though Vince Young is a college football stud who won't amount to much in the pros)
Tilam and I are still (mostly) on the same page, the NFL is still Seahawks-Colts in the championship game. Look out for the Giants and Patriots, they have potential. All others are pretenders...
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