Even the "bright spots" were merely average, but wonderful in comparison to the overall effort. As Thew said, someone should keep on reminding the US that they were wearing BLUE.
When I played a dead giveaway about the confidence of the opposing player was the length of his strides. The longer the stride, the more confident they were. Small strides and we knew lunch was served. When you watch the game on replay, look at the baby steps the US players took with the ball.
There is no sugar coating this. It was a disaster. Often, you can look at positives in defeat (or in the case of England, negatives in triumph), but I don't see any right now. The best I can hope for is a tremendous kick in the ass. All the basics were missing. They were tentative, the passing (even short passing) was awful, there was NO anticipation, no hustle, they did not play as a team.
At one point I am watching the game at a local bar (late lunch) and Beasley was dribbling down field. I am watching him and thinking, "oh, no don't make THAT pass." The guy down the bar says, "oh, no," at roughly the same time. Beasley does (maybe a 13 yarder) and it is picked off cleanly by the Czechs. If two guys in a bar can tell what Beasley is doing, how does he have any hope against pros on the field.
Arena went with a different game plan the I would have - much more defensively oriented. (I had a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach when I read we were going with a 5-4-1.) That would have been good, if we can play defense! I always felt the defense was our weakest point and we needed to press the offense.
We are not eliminated yet, but the Boyz need to show much, much more.
6.12.2006
I will let Tilam do the major ranting
Wow. Ok, not sure where to start here...
We played like shit. Like a team of 4th graders. Any American soccer fan who is not totally ashamed and embarassed and mortified at the complete lack of skill and desire displayed by the Americans should be deported to Siberia...and you know that Siberia won't want 'em.
To say it was ugly is rounding UP.
We can't trap.
We can't pass.
When we CAN pass, we can't pass to a blue shirt, we give it to the white shirts.
The Czech's won 95% of all 50/50 balls, and 90% of all other loose balls.
They ran, we jogged.
They had purpose and organization, we looked, in the most eloquent words of Randy Quaid in Days of Thunder - 'like a bunch of monkeys f**kin a football!'.
We are standing and watching on offense; worse yet, we are standing and watching on defense too.
Someone needs to tell the US that "showing up" isn't good enough. "Well, we tried hard" isn't going to cut the mustard. PLAY LIKE WORLD CUP SOCCER PLAYERS, not like out mother of mercy 4th grade catholic girls!
What the HELL is up with short corners? You hit it 10 feet to another guy and expect that guy to cross it into the box under Czech pressure? Drop it into the middle of the box right off the bat!
This game showed CONTENDERS v PRETENDERS. This US team will NOT beat the Czech's (of course), we will NOT beat the Italians, we'll be lucky to draw against Ghana. Unless there are wholesale changes in effort, philosophy, and we grow some balls and actually play SOCCER, I expect 3 and out - the only pressing question at this point is if we'll finish in DEAD LAST again. Despicable...
We played like shit. Like a team of 4th graders. Any American soccer fan who is not totally ashamed and embarassed and mortified at the complete lack of skill and desire displayed by the Americans should be deported to Siberia...and you know that Siberia won't want 'em.
To say it was ugly is rounding UP.
We can't trap.
We can't pass.
When we CAN pass, we can't pass to a blue shirt, we give it to the white shirts.
The Czech's won 95% of all 50/50 balls, and 90% of all other loose balls.
They ran, we jogged.
They had purpose and organization, we looked, in the most eloquent words of Randy Quaid in Days of Thunder - 'like a bunch of monkeys f**kin a football!'.
We are standing and watching on offense; worse yet, we are standing and watching on defense too.
Someone needs to tell the US that "showing up" isn't good enough. "Well, we tried hard" isn't going to cut the mustard. PLAY LIKE WORLD CUP SOCCER PLAYERS, not like out mother of mercy 4th grade catholic girls!
What the HELL is up with short corners? You hit it 10 feet to another guy and expect that guy to cross it into the box under Czech pressure? Drop it into the middle of the box right off the bat!
This game showed CONTENDERS v PRETENDERS. This US team will NOT beat the Czech's (of course), we will NOT beat the Italians, we'll be lucky to draw against Ghana. Unless there are wholesale changes in effort, philosophy, and we grow some balls and actually play SOCCER, I expect 3 and out - the only pressing question at this point is if we'll finish in DEAD LAST again. Despicable...
USA - Czech Rep.
To say the Americans played like shit, does a huge disservice to shit...
A more extensive rant to follow.
A more extensive rant to follow.
6.07.2006
Who wants to be a Lead Guitarist?!
I have no idea what "...Navel Gazing..." has to do with soccer. Until Now.
No, I cannot fathom the intent of Tilam's reference, but after some searching, I have realized that my dreams of becoming a lead guitarist and getting all the girls was sadly misplaced; I should have continued my soccer career. Top players get all the hot chix!!
No, I cannot fathom the intent of Tilam's reference, but after some searching, I have realized that my dreams of becoming a lead guitarist and getting all the girls was sadly misplaced; I should have continued my soccer career. Top players get all the hot chix!!
6.05.2006
More Pre-World Cup Navel Gazing
SI has its Power Ranking out for the 32 World Cup Teams. I have some quibbles (Germany #2!), but it has it better than the FIFA Rankings. Like any Rankings, it is a lot of fun. One interesting point is that Jonah Freedman is certainly not jumping on the Czech bandwagon:
"Their No. 2 world ranking is, quite honestly, almost as overinflated as the Americans are at No. 5. Add to that a ridiculous rash of injuries, a load of aging players, rather pedestrian tactics and an unimaginative coach in Karel Bruckner, and the Czechs aren't nearly as intimidating as everyone's making them out to be."
Tell us what you really think, Jonah!
I also tripped over this "Greatest Team Ever" roster. That is the fun of a "Greatest Ever" team: the idea of watching Puskas and Pele on the same front line. (Don't know Puskas? Pele scored 77 goals in 94 international matches in the 60s, Puskas scored 84 goals in 85 matches in the 50s.) Some of the players (Eusebio at right striker/Lev Yashin at goalie) I am not so familiar with, but I will say it has a good mix of the different eras of soccer. I might have put George Best with Puskas/Pele, but I also would concede I might be over emphasizing potential versus performance. I also like DiStefano up front, and he in combination with Puskas, made Real Madrid THE most dominating force is soccer during the late 50s/early 60s. (DiStefano gets the sympathy vote too: how would you like to have scored a hat-trick in the 1960 European Cup finals and be the SECOND leading scorer for the team in the match?)
That is right 7-3 in favor of Real Madrid. Back when the striker was king. It is no accident that all the strikers (except Gullit) are pre-1970.
"Their No. 2 world ranking is, quite honestly, almost as overinflated as the Americans are at No. 5. Add to that a ridiculous rash of injuries, a load of aging players, rather pedestrian tactics and an unimaginative coach in Karel Bruckner, and the Czechs aren't nearly as intimidating as everyone's making them out to be."
Tell us what you really think, Jonah!
I also tripped over this "Greatest Team Ever" roster. That is the fun of a "Greatest Ever" team: the idea of watching Puskas and Pele on the same front line. (Don't know Puskas? Pele scored 77 goals in 94 international matches in the 60s, Puskas scored 84 goals in 85 matches in the 50s.) Some of the players (Eusebio at right striker/Lev Yashin at goalie) I am not so familiar with, but I will say it has a good mix of the different eras of soccer. I might have put George Best with Puskas/Pele, but I also would concede I might be over emphasizing potential versus performance. I also like DiStefano up front, and he in combination with Puskas, made Real Madrid THE most dominating force is soccer during the late 50s/early 60s. (DiStefano gets the sympathy vote too: how would you like to have scored a hat-trick in the 1960 European Cup finals and be the SECOND leading scorer for the team in the match?)
That is right 7-3 in favor of Real Madrid. Back when the striker was king. It is no accident that all the strikers (except Gullit) are pre-1970.
6.01.2006
USA, USA!
So what are the realistic chances of the US soccer team in the World Cup. On paper, things certainly don't look so good in the group of death. (Okay, I have come to agree that Group C is the 2006 Group of Death in caps.) But you could see a simple scenario play like this:
1 - 2 loss to Czechs;
0 - 0 tie with Italy; and
2 - 0 win against Ghana
with the US advancing on goal differentials behind the Czechs.
A more optimistic scenario takes into account the injury trouble of the Czechs and the Juventus referee fixing scandal plaguing the Italians.
1 - 1 tie with the Czechs as Gooch manhandles Jan Koller;
2 - 0 win against a distracted Italian club; and
1 - 0 win against Ghana with several players resting.
I will say the scheduling helps us. I think the Italians can sleep walk to a 1 - 0 win against Ghana in their Game 1, but Ghana is set up best against the Italian "defense first" game. (They are not particularly well-suited to beat the faster paced Czechs or Americans.) If the US plays well in the first two games it sets up a BIG match for Italy v. Czech Republic in their Game 3. Assuming the above and a "big" win for the Czechs against the Ghanese in their Game 2, the Italians must win big to advance and knock out the Czechs and the Czechs must win to advance and must win big to avoid Brazil in the next round.
There is also clearly the worst case scenario of three clean sheets and out, but I simply do not want to think about that.
1 - 2 loss to Czechs;
0 - 0 tie with Italy; and
2 - 0 win against Ghana
with the US advancing on goal differentials behind the Czechs.
A more optimistic scenario takes into account the injury trouble of the Czechs and the Juventus referee fixing scandal plaguing the Italians.
1 - 1 tie with the Czechs as Gooch manhandles Jan Koller;
2 - 0 win against a distracted Italian club; and
1 - 0 win against Ghana with several players resting.
I will say the scheduling helps us. I think the Italians can sleep walk to a 1 - 0 win against Ghana in their Game 1, but Ghana is set up best against the Italian "defense first" game. (They are not particularly well-suited to beat the faster paced Czechs or Americans.) If the US plays well in the first two games it sets up a BIG match for Italy v. Czech Republic in their Game 3. Assuming the above and a "big" win for the Czechs against the Ghanese in their Game 2, the Italians must win big to advance and knock out the Czechs and the Czechs must win to advance and must win big to avoid Brazil in the next round.
There is also clearly the worst case scenario of three clean sheets and out, but I simply do not want to think about that.
Unity '08?
I seem to be reading a lot about "third party" candidates lately. By way of example, Unity '08 is an attempt to run an alternative ticket for President/Vice President in 2008. They frame their platform into "Crucial" (terrorism, national debt, etc.) and "Important" (gun control, abortion, gay marriage, etc.) issues. Though they are very careful not to stake out a position, it can be assumed that they would generally consider themselves "centrists." They are attempting to get a split ticket (Rep and Dem) as Pres and Veep, though not in any particular order. It is telling that they would like to draw their candidate from the "established" parties.
Peggy Noonan has her take on this in the WSJ today and points out that the divide seems to be a DC vs. USA or Elites vs. Everyman. I think she is on to something when she says that the government is out of touch, but the sickness runs deeper. Maybe she should characterize it as Royalty vs. Peasants.
The problem with a third party is that for one to really catch fire, it has to 1) make an enemy of that which it seeks to be and 2) remain loyal to his/her philosophy. By the first I meant that policy issues are not as divisive as you might think on the Crucial issues. Raise your hand if you are in favor of terrorism? A high national debt? Are you in favor of GREATER dependency on foreign oil? MORE corruption? I did not think so.
But the achievement of these goals are were reasonable minds differ and the difference comes down to one metric: the role of government. That is, do you believe a bigger governrment effort will make things better. I would suspect the problem with Unity is that they would say, "yes." I suspect most Americans would want a clear articulation on how much government is required to achieve all these laudable goals and IF the government should be a part of the solution.
I am a rabid free marketeer. I believe that given a blind choice between some government and a lot of government, I would choose NO government. But I also realize that there are times when government policy and resources are a good thing. The first, obviously, is national defense. The second is "interstate commerce" or more accurately refereeing the battle between the states (a largely underappreciated effort). Finally, there is the broad charge of providing for the "common good." I believe in a safety net for citizens that is real, but temporary (unemployment insurance is an example). We need to abolish Social Security and Medicare in their current form and replace them with something market based.
Beyond those...let's make the states be the accountable entity. Push the responsibility down the political food chain. Go as far as Town Meeting (remember it is not "a" Town Meeting or "the" Town Meeting, it is simply - Town Meeting). Cut federal taxes and let the states and localities decide was is worth spending money on.
An anti-government platform would ignite a third-party candidacy. Everything else is politics as usual.
Peggy Noonan has her take on this in the WSJ today and points out that the divide seems to be a DC vs. USA or Elites vs. Everyman. I think she is on to something when she says that the government is out of touch, but the sickness runs deeper. Maybe she should characterize it as Royalty vs. Peasants.
The problem with a third party is that for one to really catch fire, it has to 1) make an enemy of that which it seeks to be and 2) remain loyal to his/her philosophy. By the first I meant that policy issues are not as divisive as you might think on the Crucial issues. Raise your hand if you are in favor of terrorism? A high national debt? Are you in favor of GREATER dependency on foreign oil? MORE corruption? I did not think so.
But the achievement of these goals are were reasonable minds differ and the difference comes down to one metric: the role of government. That is, do you believe a bigger governrment effort will make things better. I would suspect the problem with Unity is that they would say, "yes." I suspect most Americans would want a clear articulation on how much government is required to achieve all these laudable goals and IF the government should be a part of the solution.
I am a rabid free marketeer. I believe that given a blind choice between some government and a lot of government, I would choose NO government. But I also realize that there are times when government policy and resources are a good thing. The first, obviously, is national defense. The second is "interstate commerce" or more accurately refereeing the battle between the states (a largely underappreciated effort). Finally, there is the broad charge of providing for the "common good." I believe in a safety net for citizens that is real, but temporary (unemployment insurance is an example). We need to abolish Social Security and Medicare in their current form and replace them with something market based.
Beyond those...let's make the states be the accountable entity. Push the responsibility down the political food chain. Go as far as Town Meeting (remember it is not "a" Town Meeting or "the" Town Meeting, it is simply - Town Meeting). Cut federal taxes and let the states and localities decide was is worth spending money on.
An anti-government platform would ignite a third-party candidacy. Everything else is politics as usual.
5.31.2006
Second chances to make a First impression
Well, I saw an interview of Barry Bonds by the all-time dickhead of sports reporters, Jim Gray. And I have a conflict of thoughts about Barry Bonds:
Either he is the worlds greatest sports actor or he's finally "gotten it"...
He was humble, friendly, human, he accepted responsibility for his bad image (or at least acknowledged his role), and gracious. He expressed uncertainty as to whether he'd break Hank Aaron's record - but "given good health I'd like to try." He was smiling, engaging, and thoughtful. Quite surprising, actually.
So, is he acting to gain faction with the fans? It's possible. Or does he finally get the fact that you need to embrace the fans and even the reporters to regain a tarnished image? Has he gotten over his "me against the world" attitude, maybe now that he's off the sauce he isn't raging anymore? Either way, the result might be the same: people might grow to actually like him again. I know that I am beginning to like him again...
And let's talk about that. One of the big issues here is the growth of the athelete, albeit Mac vs Bonds. The big difference between those two guys is that Mark McGwire was already a big guy when he went on Andro, he just got bigger. Barry Bonds wasn't a 98 pound weakling, but he wasn't a Mac either; he went from an average (maybe slightly larger) person to a mass of muscle - so the change was MUCH bigger with Bonds and more noticeable. That is something the general public is clinging to in this.
But they seem to forget one thing, I think...while getting bigger and stronger has helped his warning track shots go over the wall, the guy still is a phenomenal hitter, and has eyesight that would make an eagle jealous. He can see the ball, identify the pitch, and make his decision more quickly than the average hitter, and can take advantage of that fact. Steroids (or whatever it was LOL) don't make him a better hitter, they make him a more powerful hitter. You still have to put a bat on the ball.
One question that no one has asked is this: "now that we know that Ken Caminiti's MVP was won during a season where we was on steroids, will they take it away from him"? Good for the goose, good for the gander people...
Either he is the worlds greatest sports actor or he's finally "gotten it"...
He was humble, friendly, human, he accepted responsibility for his bad image (or at least acknowledged his role), and gracious. He expressed uncertainty as to whether he'd break Hank Aaron's record - but "given good health I'd like to try." He was smiling, engaging, and thoughtful. Quite surprising, actually.
So, is he acting to gain faction with the fans? It's possible. Or does he finally get the fact that you need to embrace the fans and even the reporters to regain a tarnished image? Has he gotten over his "me against the world" attitude, maybe now that he's off the sauce he isn't raging anymore? Either way, the result might be the same: people might grow to actually like him again. I know that I am beginning to like him again...
And let's talk about that. One of the big issues here is the growth of the athelete, albeit Mac vs Bonds. The big difference between those two guys is that Mark McGwire was already a big guy when he went on Andro, he just got bigger. Barry Bonds wasn't a 98 pound weakling, but he wasn't a Mac either; he went from an average (maybe slightly larger) person to a mass of muscle - so the change was MUCH bigger with Bonds and more noticeable. That is something the general public is clinging to in this.
But they seem to forget one thing, I think...while getting bigger and stronger has helped his warning track shots go over the wall, the guy still is a phenomenal hitter, and has eyesight that would make an eagle jealous. He can see the ball, identify the pitch, and make his decision more quickly than the average hitter, and can take advantage of that fact. Steroids (or whatever it was LOL) don't make him a better hitter, they make him a more powerful hitter. You still have to put a bat on the ball.
One question that no one has asked is this: "now that we know that Ken Caminiti's MVP was won during a season where we was on steroids, will they take it away from him"? Good for the goose, good for the gander people...
The Beautiful Game
The World Cup is upon us. And I, for one, am totally psyched.
This past weekend I got a taste of the action with two US friendlies: Venezuela and Latvia.
After watching those games, it struck me that we can put up two different teams: one that matches up better against the Czech's strength and one that matches up better against the Italian's speed and finesse. My hope is that this is part of Bruce's plan and that we don't field a "tweener" that plays weak against both. My guess is that Bruce will start the same 7-8 players in both games and tailor the remaining 2-3 based on the team.
Further, I was relieved about the depth of the bench and feel we can bring on reserves in the 60th minute that can really step up the level of play. And I sincerely hope Bruce does that.
I agree that Keller is "a" top goalie, not "the" top goalie. But Group E is loaded with goalie talent, so Keller is not the distinct advantage he would be in another group. But without him...
DeMarcus Beasley has got to step it up. At 24, he can't be washed up, but he did not look crisp against Latvia. On the other hand, Bobby Convey looked very good. My general assessment is that the US is very strong on the wings, but soft in the middle. If the games are played out in the middle, we will be hurting.
We have a good shot and USMNT fans have to feel better today then last week. The US will not be a deer in the headlights, but the rest of the world does not consider us an easy win either. CONCACAF does not prepare the US well for the WC, EXCEPT for Mexico. US v. Mexico is like Red Sox v. Yankees without all the goodwill and niceties.
And, by the way, if the US manages to get into the second round as the #2 team, they will likely face...Brazil.
This past weekend I got a taste of the action with two US friendlies: Venezuela and Latvia.
After watching those games, it struck me that we can put up two different teams: one that matches up better against the Czech's strength and one that matches up better against the Italian's speed and finesse. My hope is that this is part of Bruce's plan and that we don't field a "tweener" that plays weak against both. My guess is that Bruce will start the same 7-8 players in both games and tailor the remaining 2-3 based on the team.
Further, I was relieved about the depth of the bench and feel we can bring on reserves in the 60th minute that can really step up the level of play. And I sincerely hope Bruce does that.
I agree that Keller is "a" top goalie, not "the" top goalie. But Group E is loaded with goalie talent, so Keller is not the distinct advantage he would be in another group. But without him...
DeMarcus Beasley has got to step it up. At 24, he can't be washed up, but he did not look crisp against Latvia. On the other hand, Bobby Convey looked very good. My general assessment is that the US is very strong on the wings, but soft in the middle. If the games are played out in the middle, we will be hurting.
We have a good shot and USMNT fans have to feel better today then last week. The US will not be a deer in the headlights, but the rest of the world does not consider us an easy win either. CONCACAF does not prepare the US well for the WC, EXCEPT for Mexico. US v. Mexico is like Red Sox v. Yankees without all the goodwill and niceties.
And, by the way, if the US manages to get into the second round as the #2 team, they will likely face...Brazil.
5.30.2006
Musings after Memorial Day
Sam Hornish won the Indy500 - WHAT AN EXCITING FINISH! Of course, if you saw the other 195 laps you snoozed for most of them, frankly. You've got to be wondering what was going through Marco Andretti's mind...I would honestly guess that he thought he had this one in the bag, and so he didn't make any real aggressive move on the home straightaway; blocking Hornish into the wall would have been very dangerous, yes, but truthfully, the way Hornish just flew around him indicated to me that he figured it was in the bank and didn't drop the pedal to the floor. Drafting helped Hornish, too, but I can't help but wonder why Marco's car didn't lurch forward in some sort of response...
Danica finished 8th with a shitty car. She was the only driver in the field using the Panos (sp?) chassis, which is commonly known as being the slower chassis, so kudo's to her for finishing in the top 10. To me it only solidifies her standing as a quality driver, one that will win a race eventually. Time will tell what Marco Andretti becomes, but wow, his future certainly looks BRIGHT, considering the fact that he's an Andretti and he's only 19.
Barry Bonds hit #715. So, big fuggin deal...of the 4 Baseball Tonight analysts, NONE of them said he'd break Hank. And what the hell is up with "Bonds has broken Ruth's record" statements?! RUTH DOESN'T HOLD THE RECORD YOU IDIOT SPORTSWRITERS! Geez. Aaron holds the records, Bonds just eclipsed Ruth's total to move into second place, but he didn't break Ruth's record! Get it right you morons!
Carolina comes back, heading to game 6 tonight in BUffalo. Go Canes, make me the prognosticator that I am!
Danica finished 8th with a shitty car. She was the only driver in the field using the Panos (sp?) chassis, which is commonly known as being the slower chassis, so kudo's to her for finishing in the top 10. To me it only solidifies her standing as a quality driver, one that will win a race eventually. Time will tell what Marco Andretti becomes, but wow, his future certainly looks BRIGHT, considering the fact that he's an Andretti and he's only 19.
Barry Bonds hit #715. So, big fuggin deal...of the 4 Baseball Tonight analysts, NONE of them said he'd break Hank. And what the hell is up with "Bonds has broken Ruth's record" statements?! RUTH DOESN'T HOLD THE RECORD YOU IDIOT SPORTSWRITERS! Geez. Aaron holds the records, Bonds just eclipsed Ruth's total to move into second place, but he didn't break Ruth's record! Get it right you morons!
Carolina comes back, heading to game 6 tonight in BUffalo. Go Canes, make me the prognosticator that I am!
5.23.2006
More corporate Idiocy
The Carolina/Buffalo Eastern Conference Finals is shaping up to be a FANTASTIC series. Chippy, little snarly, north and south action, fast paced, all the best things you could hope for in a hockey game. Tied 1-1, but I'm hoping my 'Canes will put it out - I thought 6 games, Barry Melrose thinks 7. Time will tell, but this series will really capture the attention of hockey fans.
Fannie Mae got caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Now, I am only a mid-level manager, but this illustrates the inherent problem with MBO, which for you indians means "management by objective". This means that certains goals and objectives are set forth, and if they are met, then the chiefs get their bonuses. The PROBLEM is that people become politically manipulative, and will manage to nothing besides their bonuses in order to collect mucho dinero. From MSN.com "Senior executives at Fannie Mae manipulated accounting to collect millions in "maximum, undeserved bonuses" and deceive investors, a federal report charged Tuesday.". See, here's what I run into in IT - executives are incented to make project/code/release deliverable dates, and manage their lives and operations to meet those dates and threshholds in order to collect their massive bonuses. Consequently, they reduce scope to make a release (thereby stiffing the customer of requested functionality), or my favorite, put it in with issues anyway ("you can't put it in dirty, but you CAN'T MISS THE DATE!"). This is among my biggest corporate pet peeves, and is one of the top five factors in producing a distince lack of quality in business today. Aside from things like stupidity in management, stupidity in executive management, stupidity in leadership, and a complete lack of people skills and professional abilities.
Boston is kicking the ass off New York, again...in May. :)
Fannie Mae got caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Now, I am only a mid-level manager, but this illustrates the inherent problem with MBO, which for you indians means "management by objective". This means that certains goals and objectives are set forth, and if they are met, then the chiefs get their bonuses. The PROBLEM is that people become politically manipulative, and will manage to nothing besides their bonuses in order to collect mucho dinero. From MSN.com "Senior executives at Fannie Mae manipulated accounting to collect millions in "maximum, undeserved bonuses" and deceive investors, a federal report charged Tuesday.". See, here's what I run into in IT - executives are incented to make project/code/release deliverable dates, and manage their lives and operations to meet those dates and threshholds in order to collect their massive bonuses. Consequently, they reduce scope to make a release (thereby stiffing the customer of requested functionality), or my favorite, put it in with issues anyway ("you can't put it in dirty, but you CAN'T MISS THE DATE!"). This is among my biggest corporate pet peeves, and is one of the top five factors in producing a distince lack of quality in business today. Aside from things like stupidity in management, stupidity in executive management, stupidity in leadership, and a complete lack of people skills and professional abilities.
Boston is kicking the ass off New York, again...in May. :)
5.21.2006
Days of Thunder
Through the generosity of my wonderful wife, I had an opportunity to attend the Richard Petty Driving School this past weekend. Basically, it's the opportunity for a bunch of shluffs like myself to drive a NASCAR automobile. Ah, well, to be honest, I believe they are Busch Series cars, but a 600HP 350ci V8 isn't anything you'd see on the morning commute, that's for sure.
So here's my assessment:
If you have a chance, DO IT! This is the 3rd most fun thing I've done in a car, the 2nd most fun in a moving vehicle (no, I'm not going to tell you, so don't ask!). It is a rush and something you don't normally get to do, so I'd advise anyone who's ever wanted to drive fast while sitting in maddening rush hour traffic, make an appointment.
I hit a top speed of 139 mph. Frankly, I'm a little disappointed, I know I could have gone faster. But I am given a pace car, and frankly didn't know how to get him to speed up, short of bump drafting him. But 139 is still pretty decent for a rookie. Driving around the oval, feeling the horsepower, the centrifugal force on the turns, and the jump of the engine as you gun it down the straightaway, wow, it's genuinely FUN!
Here's what I learned:
I have a need for speed, which is why I tend to get frustrated and road rage during my morning commute, when it takes me roughly an hour to drive 21 miles to work.
Those ovals have a real bank on them - yeah, you see it on TV but until you've felt it in an automobile, feel the hugging of the tires, the tilt of the car, you don't realize how much 24 degrees feels as a racer.
At 140mph, the ride is over too fast - the first of 8 laps is a "feeling out" lap, then you really get going. But you're blowing and going and hooting and hollering and really trying to drive the car, then they wave the checkered flag and it's over. Damm...
If you consider this from a professional driver's perspective, you can add roughly 40mph or so to my speed on the straightaways; since they are only 2000 feet or so long, it really gives you a sense of passing skill, since the window of opportunity is much shorter than TV coverage might lead you to believe.
So here's my assessment:
If you have a chance, DO IT! This is the 3rd most fun thing I've done in a car, the 2nd most fun in a moving vehicle (no, I'm not going to tell you, so don't ask!). It is a rush and something you don't normally get to do, so I'd advise anyone who's ever wanted to drive fast while sitting in maddening rush hour traffic, make an appointment.
I hit a top speed of 139 mph. Frankly, I'm a little disappointed, I know I could have gone faster. But I am given a pace car, and frankly didn't know how to get him to speed up, short of bump drafting him. But 139 is still pretty decent for a rookie. Driving around the oval, feeling the horsepower, the centrifugal force on the turns, and the jump of the engine as you gun it down the straightaway, wow, it's genuinely FUN!
Here's what I learned:
I have a need for speed, which is why I tend to get frustrated and road rage during my morning commute, when it takes me roughly an hour to drive 21 miles to work.
Those ovals have a real bank on them - yeah, you see it on TV but until you've felt it in an automobile, feel the hugging of the tires, the tilt of the car, you don't realize how much 24 degrees feels as a racer.
At 140mph, the ride is over too fast - the first of 8 laps is a "feeling out" lap, then you really get going. But you're blowing and going and hooting and hollering and really trying to drive the car, then they wave the checkered flag and it's over. Damm...
If you consider this from a professional driver's perspective, you can add roughly 40mph or so to my speed on the straightaways; since they are only 2000 feet or so long, it really gives you a sense of passing skill, since the window of opportunity is much shorter than TV coverage might lead you to believe.
5.18.2006
UEFA Final
I assume Thew means the play where Lehmann was sent off when he refers to "tackle."
Lehmann made a huge mistake before he sent Eto'o to the ground - the striker was one more step from a shot and Lehmann could have made the play.
But that was not the most egregious call by the Ref. He blew the whistle nearly immediately - no doubt about the foul - so play HAD to stop. Now he made a mistake to not let the play run through and give Barca the advantage - that was the right thing to do - but once he blows the play dead, he has committed himself to that course of action. Advantage is always a judgment call, but once the whistle blows; the play stops.
Outstanding heart by the English (again funny to use the national term), but once they were a man down, chances were slim they could pull it off.
Lehmann made a huge mistake before he sent Eto'o to the ground - the striker was one more step from a shot and Lehmann could have made the play.
But that was not the most egregious call by the Ref. He blew the whistle nearly immediately - no doubt about the foul - so play HAD to stop. Now he made a mistake to not let the play run through and give Barca the advantage - that was the right thing to do - but once he blows the play dead, he has committed himself to that course of action. Advantage is always a judgment call, but once the whistle blows; the play stops.
Outstanding heart by the English (again funny to use the national term), but once they were a man down, chances were slim they could pull it off.
5.17.2006
Barca v. Gunners
Half-time at the UEFA championships in France finds Arsenal up 1-0 against Barcelona. Most amazing is that Arsenal has played one man down since their GOALIE was sent off with a Red Card in the 18th minute! This was the first Red Card issued in a Champions League final.
Campbell's header came off of a Henry cross and stunned the Spaniards. (Yes, I know most of Barcelona are not Spaniards, but until they move the city elsewhere...)
Tivo'ing the match at home, but "watching" via ESPN and MatchCentre.
UPDATE: Eto'o slides one in to even the match 1-1 in the 75th minute.
Campbell's header came off of a Henry cross and stunned the Spaniards. (Yes, I know most of Barcelona are not Spaniards, but until they move the city elsewhere...)
Tivo'ing the match at home, but "watching" via ESPN and MatchCentre.
UPDATE: Eto'o slides one in to even the match 1-1 in the 75th minute.
5.16.2006
How did they let Tilam past the Border Patrol?
Some interesting musings from around the sports world...
The Ottawa Senators are the Atlanta Braves of the NHL. Top of the standings, top of the division, dead and gone during the postseason. Time to move some underachieving players (well, achieving during the regular season, but it's all about the postseason and winning championships, isn't it?) out and bring in some (more) fresh blood.
I was always a fan of Paul Maurice as a coach. The interesting part of his return to the NHL, as coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, is the fact that one of the players he "lost" who was instrumental in his dismissal as coach, currently plays in Toronto - Paul, you remember Jeff O'Neill don't you?
Barry Bonds is stuck on 713. Too bad so sad. I'll bet he has ulcers fuming about not passing Babe Ruth...you did steroids to get this far Barry, deal with it...
So Marcus Vick got a contract with the Dolphins. It looks like the fins have become the new look Raiders, a school/team for wayward players - see Ricky Williams. Rumor has it that the Fins have put in "behavioral clauses" in the contract. We'll see - here's to hoping they show the anti-shithead intolerance shown by the Eagles. And in my most optimistic gesture this week, here's to hoping Marcus Vick gets his head out of his ass and becomes a good person and good player - HAW HAW HAW, I'm kidding. Once an asshole, always an asshole...
More controversy...Morgan Pressel, my favorite teenage hottie on the LPGA tour (well, wait, is Paula Creamer over 19?) is now yapping about Michelle Wie and the fact that, while she's never won ANYTHING ANYWHERE, she's getting sponsor's exemptions to LPGA events. I have spoken my mind on this topic too often, it's nice to see some of the charging and competitive young future stars continue to hop on the "what has she earned?" bandwagon. As I have said before, she'll always be a freak side show until she actually WINS something and earns her hype. NOTE: she's past the first stage in qualifying for the men's US Open. Good for her. But I won't beat a dead horse (again) since she's also received an exemption to play in the Women's US Open, something she didn't EARN at all. But I have to love the reasoning of USGA women's tournament chairman Marcia '"Luigs We don't award special exemptions to help a site sell tickets. That's never a consideration,"' she said. "But we're thrilled with the outcome."' Oh yeah, you are SO full of s**t. I love you Morgan! "I don't see why she shouldn't have to qualify, or why should be afraid to qualify, or why she should expect an exemption,'' Pressel said. Okay, so I beat the dead horse just a little...
Should I comment on the Larry Brown fiasco in New York? Nah. Brown is a good coach, imho, but he's also an egotistical quitter. Granted, Stephon Marbury is a selfish self-centered asshole who would speak out against his mother if she were coaching him, but still, Larry is showing some unexpected colors as a coach.
Oh, and are people questioning Flip Saunders' coaching ability now that he's in the thick of the playoffs with Detroit? Bet the Kevin's in Minnesota want him back now. :)
Years ago college men starting getting inked all over the place. Then college women started it. Men's college teams have always had a "hush hush" ritual of hazing, most of the time it's harmless fun, sometimes it got out of hand. Now, the Northwestern Women's Soccer team have done it too". Such is college sports today. Of course, from a man's perspective, I wanted to see more tight soccer player butts in panties...
Lastly, a fond farewell to Doug Flutie. Magician. Little Guy. Champion of autism ($7 million and counting). In mu humble opinion, one of the most, if not THE most, underrated quarterback in the history of pro football. USFL, NFL, CFL, NFL. He walked the walk (literally, around 3 leagues), talked the talk, only wanted a chance to prove his value and skill. Too many Grey Cups and CFL MVP's too. I wish him the best of luck in his next life, and hope he stays around for a long time.
On the issue of Illegal Immigrants: just stop them from collecting benefits from the US taxpayers (yeah, welfare is one of them) and Tilam's right, you'll make a TON of people happy. If someone wants to employ someone for a day for $50, let 'em. But if they are illegally in this country, give 'em NOTHING from my hear earned tax dollars. I won't start the debate over how the US worker is pricing himself out of jobs (unions are a big cause of this) and forcing US companies to go externally for low cost quality labor. That is for another day...
The Ottawa Senators are the Atlanta Braves of the NHL. Top of the standings, top of the division, dead and gone during the postseason. Time to move some underachieving players (well, achieving during the regular season, but it's all about the postseason and winning championships, isn't it?) out and bring in some (more) fresh blood.
I was always a fan of Paul Maurice as a coach. The interesting part of his return to the NHL, as coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, is the fact that one of the players he "lost" who was instrumental in his dismissal as coach, currently plays in Toronto - Paul, you remember Jeff O'Neill don't you?
Barry Bonds is stuck on 713. Too bad so sad. I'll bet he has ulcers fuming about not passing Babe Ruth...you did steroids to get this far Barry, deal with it...
So Marcus Vick got a contract with the Dolphins. It looks like the fins have become the new look Raiders, a school/team for wayward players - see Ricky Williams. Rumor has it that the Fins have put in "behavioral clauses" in the contract. We'll see - here's to hoping they show the anti-shithead intolerance shown by the Eagles. And in my most optimistic gesture this week, here's to hoping Marcus Vick gets his head out of his ass and becomes a good person and good player - HAW HAW HAW, I'm kidding. Once an asshole, always an asshole...
More controversy...Morgan Pressel, my favorite teenage hottie on the LPGA tour (well, wait, is Paula Creamer over 19?) is now yapping about Michelle Wie and the fact that, while she's never won ANYTHING ANYWHERE, she's getting sponsor's exemptions to LPGA events. I have spoken my mind on this topic too often, it's nice to see some of the charging and competitive young future stars continue to hop on the "what has she earned?" bandwagon. As I have said before, she'll always be a freak side show until she actually WINS something and earns her hype. NOTE: she's past the first stage in qualifying for the men's US Open. Good for her. But I won't beat a dead horse (again) since she's also received an exemption to play in the Women's US Open, something she didn't EARN at all. But I have to love the reasoning of USGA women's tournament chairman Marcia '"Luigs We don't award special exemptions to help a site sell tickets. That's never a consideration,"' she said. "But we're thrilled with the outcome."' Oh yeah, you are SO full of s**t. I love you Morgan! "I don't see why she shouldn't have to qualify, or why should be afraid to qualify, or why she should expect an exemption,'' Pressel said. Okay, so I beat the dead horse just a little...
Should I comment on the Larry Brown fiasco in New York? Nah. Brown is a good coach, imho, but he's also an egotistical quitter. Granted, Stephon Marbury is a selfish self-centered asshole who would speak out against his mother if she were coaching him, but still, Larry is showing some unexpected colors as a coach.
Oh, and are people questioning Flip Saunders' coaching ability now that he's in the thick of the playoffs with Detroit? Bet the Kevin's in Minnesota want him back now. :)
Years ago college men starting getting inked all over the place. Then college women started it. Men's college teams have always had a "hush hush" ritual of hazing, most of the time it's harmless fun, sometimes it got out of hand. Now, the Northwestern Women's Soccer team have done it too". Such is college sports today. Of course, from a man's perspective, I wanted to see more tight soccer player butts in panties...
Lastly, a fond farewell to Doug Flutie. Magician. Little Guy. Champion of autism ($7 million and counting). In mu humble opinion, one of the most, if not THE most, underrated quarterback in the history of pro football. USFL, NFL, CFL, NFL. He walked the walk (literally, around 3 leagues), talked the talk, only wanted a chance to prove his value and skill. Too many Grey Cups and CFL MVP's too. I wish him the best of luck in his next life, and hope he stays around for a long time.
On the issue of Illegal Immigrants: just stop them from collecting benefits from the US taxpayers (yeah, welfare is one of them) and Tilam's right, you'll make a TON of people happy. If someone wants to employ someone for a day for $50, let 'em. But if they are illegally in this country, give 'em NOTHING from my hear earned tax dollars. I won't start the debate over how the US worker is pricing himself out of jobs (unions are a big cause of this) and forcing US companies to go externally for low cost quality labor. That is for another day...
Immigration Bluster
Normally, I can not let a "hot topic" go by without some comment. The Immigration Debate is an exception. Border patrol, guest worker, fast track citizenship, catch & release are big yawners. Quite simply, President Bush is wrong, the Neocons are wrong and the liberals are wrong. And until they start focusing on the REAL issue(s), I will remain outside of this debate.
Nothing they have proposed will work. Nothing.
The underlying problem is that the US per capita GDP is 4 times Mexico's. Further, the US GDP is growing faster then Mexico's which will only increase the difference. With that sort of disparity, you can not stem the tide of illegals for very long. It is like trying to solve the drug problem by destroying crops - if the demand is there someone will supply it at the right price.
The solution is to work with Mexico to grow its economy so it is attractive for Mexicans to remain in Mexico. Unless you do that, the problem will remain.
One last thing: the public does not really give a damn. If you could guarantee that illegals could not collect welfare, you would satisfy 95% of the public.
Nothing they have proposed will work. Nothing.
The underlying problem is that the US per capita GDP is 4 times Mexico's. Further, the US GDP is growing faster then Mexico's which will only increase the difference. With that sort of disparity, you can not stem the tide of illegals for very long. It is like trying to solve the drug problem by destroying crops - if the demand is there someone will supply it at the right price.
The solution is to work with Mexico to grow its economy so it is attractive for Mexicans to remain in Mexico. Unless you do that, the problem will remain.
One last thing: the public does not really give a damn. If you could guarantee that illegals could not collect welfare, you would satisfy 95% of the public.
5.10.2006
Stupid is as Stupid does...
Delmont Young...
In case you don't know that name, it's the name of the minor league prospect who, after being called out on strikes, THREW HIS BAT AT THE UMPIRE! So the international league suspended him for 50 games. Okay, let's see if the suspension gets through to him. Bets? Probably not. But the interesting thing is some of the complete idiocy of the sports nation. Let's look at the poll results that ESPN has based on this incident:
1) What are your thoughts on the length of the suspension?
51.6% Too lenient
37.6% Just right
10.8% Too harsh
Well, at least we all agree. Sprewell gets a season for choking his coach. Artest gets a buttload of games for kicking the ass of a drunken fan who probably deserved to get his ass kicked for throwing beer, but still, the action is the key. He should have gotten a full season.
2) Is it fair to penalize someone more based on the result of their action?
77.7% Yes
22.3% No
This is an ASSININE result to me. Take 2 people. They both shoot another person. But one victim gets paralyzed, while the other one recovers. Do you think that the first person should be punished more than the second one? They BOTH attempted murder. It doesn't matter that one got paralyzed and one didn't, they BOTH SHOT SOMEONE! Same crime, different result produces a different sentence? "So well, I shot da man, but he didn't die, so it's okay". o I threw my bat and hit the umpire in his chest protector, so no one got hurt, so it's okay, I don't need to be punished. WHAT THE HELL!?! Just because you didn't succeed at your crime doesn't mean you didn't commit one. This shows the true stupidity of the fan in today's world...
3) Which should be taken into account the most when issuing a suspension?
50.5% They should be weighed equally
44.1% The action
5.4% The result
Again, if you break the rules, you break the rules. "No harm no foul" does NOT apply to the law. At least I don't think it does...
4) Are sports leagues less tolerant of misbehavior than they were five years ago?
60.3% Yes
39.7% No
No-frikkin-brainer...
*****
Another Sox/Yanks early season series, another ass whoopin by Boston. All my Boston friends are crowing as they do early in the season until the Yankees hit their stride and lay waste to the AL East yet again. They love to crow about all the little battles they win, yet year in and year out (with the exception of 2004, a quality Sox team who deservedly won the WS) they lose the war. Tawk to me in Septembah boys, not in May...
In the NHL playoffs, fear the Sabres. They are playing great hockey, they are playing confident hockey, and they are playing fearless hockey.
There is a debate out there on Michelle Wie and if she will ever become a full time PGA men's tour player. What the hell is Ron Sirak thinking? She'll NEVER be a full-time men's tour player. She needs to win AGAINST THE LADIES before she can claim any right to compete against the men as anything more than a freak side-show. Yes, I am down on Michelle (although at 6'1", I'm looking her straight in the eye), but it's only because she's getting so much hype and so much recognition without having WON ANYTHING! Wake up and smell the coffee. It's not good enough to "compete in LPGA majors". It's not good enough to make the cut as some 3rd world country second rate no competition asian tour event. She has to EARN her way into the men's tour, she cannot just be given it. Hey, she's young and talented, but then again, so was Ty (keep on) Tryon...
Roger Clemens is really getting on my nerves. Quit the damm game already. Stop being a side show. If you are "nowhere close" mentally to coming back and playing, then fuggin' LEAVE ALREADY. Stop being a cling-on to Houston. Leave the game with dignity and class, not with stupidity...
Okay, enough for today...
In case you don't know that name, it's the name of the minor league prospect who, after being called out on strikes, THREW HIS BAT AT THE UMPIRE! So the international league suspended him for 50 games.
1) What are your thoughts on the length of the suspension?
51.6% Too lenient
37.6% Just right
10.8% Too harsh
Well, at least we all agree. Sprewell gets a season for choking his coach. Artest gets a buttload of games for kicking the ass of a drunken fan who probably deserved to get his ass kicked for throwing beer, but still, the action is the key. He should have gotten a full season.
2) Is it fair to penalize someone more based on the result of their action?
77.7% Yes
22.3% No
This is an ASSININE result to me. Take 2 people. They both shoot another person. But one victim gets paralyzed, while the other one recovers. Do you think that the first person should be punished more than the second one? They BOTH attempted murder. It doesn't matter that one got paralyzed and one didn't, they BOTH SHOT SOMEONE! Same crime, different result produces a different sentence? "So well, I shot da man, but he didn't die, so it's okay". o I threw my bat and hit the umpire in his chest protector, so no one got hurt, so it's okay, I don't need to be punished. WHAT THE HELL!?! Just because you didn't succeed at your crime doesn't mean you didn't commit one. This shows the true stupidity of the fan in today's world...
3) Which should be taken into account the most when issuing a suspension?
50.5% They should be weighed equally
44.1% The action
5.4% The result
Again, if you break the rules, you break the rules. "No harm no foul" does NOT apply to the law. At least I don't think it does...
4) Are sports leagues less tolerant of misbehavior than they were five years ago?
60.3% Yes
39.7% No
No-frikkin-brainer...
*****
Another Sox/Yanks early season series, another ass whoopin by Boston. All my Boston friends are crowing as they do early in the season until the Yankees hit their stride and lay waste to the AL East yet again. They love to crow about all the little battles they win, yet year in and year out (with the exception of 2004, a quality Sox team who deservedly won the WS) they lose the war. Tawk to me in Septembah boys, not in May...
In the NHL playoffs, fear the Sabres. They are playing great hockey, they are playing confident hockey, and they are playing fearless hockey.
There is a debate out there on Michelle Wie and if she will ever become a full time PGA men's tour player. What the hell is Ron Sirak thinking? She'll NEVER be a full-time men's tour player. She needs to win AGAINST THE LADIES before she can claim any right to compete against the men as anything more than a freak side-show. Yes, I am down on Michelle (although at 6'1", I'm looking her straight in the eye), but it's only because she's getting so much hype and so much recognition without having WON ANYTHING! Wake up and smell the coffee. It's not good enough to "compete in LPGA majors". It's not good enough to make the cut as some 3rd world country second rate no competition asian tour event. She has to EARN her way into the men's tour, she cannot just be given it. Hey, she's young and talented, but then again, so was Ty (keep on) Tryon...
Roger Clemens is really getting on my nerves. Quit the damm game already. Stop being a side show. If you are "nowhere close" mentally to coming back and playing, then fuggin' LEAVE ALREADY. Stop being a cling-on to Houston. Leave the game with dignity and class, not with stupidity...
Okay, enough for today...
5.08.2006
Admit it, you've missed me!
Okay, Okay, I'm back after a short hiatus...and my first topic this time is, of course, Michelle Wie.
Okay, she gets an invite to a men's tournament. She heads over there and MAKES THE CUT! Quite an accomplishment? NO WAY! Someone call me to the carpet when this girl makes the cut on the PGA TOUR, not some single A ball level mini-tour out in BFE Korea. She should be commended for this accomplishment, but on the grand scale it's minor at best. As Tony Kornheiser said on PTI, "the girl has won NOTHING!". I'll be happy to eat crow if she qualifies on the men's PGA tour, but until then, the phone line is busy. And then, I'll applaud her legitimate accomplishment, after which I'll ask "has she won on the pro tour, men's or lady's?" Nope? Here's a quarter, call me when she does...I won't expect to hear back from you.
Yes, hockey is back, and my 'Canes whooped New Jersey 6-0 in game 1. Woo Woo! As for the Cup finals, I have to jump on Tilam's bandwagon...Eastern Conference in 6.
I tell you what Reggie Bush is going to think the first time he gets LEVELLED by a 300 lb defensive end..."why the hell did I sign with New Orleans?!". Nothing like getting your clock cleaned to make you ruminate over decisions.
Barry Bonds his #713...after the headlines, I'm finding that I don't really care...isn't that sad?
Crap, I need to run to a meeting...
Okay, she gets an invite to a men's tournament. She heads over there and MAKES THE CUT! Quite an accomplishment? NO WAY! Someone call me to the carpet when this girl makes the cut on the PGA TOUR, not some single A ball level mini-tour out in BFE Korea. She should be commended for this accomplishment, but on the grand scale it's minor at best. As Tony Kornheiser said on PTI, "the girl has won NOTHING!". I'll be happy to eat crow if she qualifies on the men's PGA tour, but until then, the phone line is busy. And then, I'll applaud her legitimate accomplishment, after which I'll ask "has she won on the pro tour, men's or lady's?" Nope? Here's a quarter, call me when she does...I won't expect to hear back from you.
Yes, hockey is back, and my 'Canes whooped New Jersey 6-0 in game 1. Woo Woo! As for the Cup finals, I have to jump on Tilam's bandwagon...Eastern Conference in 6.
I tell you what Reggie Bush is going to think the first time he gets LEVELLED by a 300 lb defensive end..."why the hell did I sign with New Orleans?!". Nothing like getting your clock cleaned to make you ruminate over decisions.
Barry Bonds his #713...after the headlines, I'm finding that I don't really care...isn't that sad?
Crap, I need to run to a meeting...
5.05.2006
Round the Horn II
Time for Tilam and Thew to eat 까마귀.
That is crow...in Korean. Michelle Wie made the cut in a men's tournament...in Korea. Maybe we will have to eat 烏鴉 when she makes the cut at the Beijing Open, but I don't expect us to eat الغراب at the Dubai Open (playing in a burqa is a bitch, peace be upon you). Stay tuned.
US MNT. The US Men's National Team has been picked for Germany 2006. The US is ranked 4th (COUGH!) in the world and the squad is predictable and the strongest we have fielded in a while. The MLS MVP for 2005, Taylor Twellman, missed the squad and that seemed to be a mild surprise, but Brian Ching has been on fire for Houston. (Keep up with the goings on at US Soccer; Road to the World Cup and the Soccer Blog.)
It is a Bruce Arena team. Arena is the "equivalent" of Herb Brooks and the USA Hockey team from 1980. He values team play over individual talent. Of course, he sets himself up for second guessing if things do not work out. Group E is tough, but USA has the talent and team to emerge. There defense is not a+, but they do have a outstanding counter-attack. Can we expect an Elite 8 performance again? No, we should demand it.
MLB. Yankees-Red Sox tied atop the AL East. Life is good.
NBA. Are they done yet?
NHL. Time to start paying attention. 'Canes come back as Thew predicted and face the Devils (if there was EVER a good news/bad news scenario, this is it). My feeling is that the playoffs have set themselves up for the team from the East. (Fine, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to notice that the Top 4 seeds are still around in the East, but the bottom 4 seeds populate the West.) But I will say the Stanley Cup will go to the East Team in 5.
NFL Draft. Ho Hum. It amazes me that they make such a big deal of this. Sure the money is big, but there is not a pro league where there is such a difference in the college/pro levels as in the NFL. I like Reggie Bush, but the first time he is staring straight up at a 300 lb. lineman who just cleaned his clock (but at least he managed to avoid the 340 pounder!), realizes that dirt tastes like shit and hears those words, "Welcome to the NFL;" the thought that will run through his head is "this ain't the Rose Bowl, is it Dorothy?"
Gotta jet.
That is crow...in Korean. Michelle Wie made the cut in a men's tournament...in Korea. Maybe we will have to eat 烏鴉 when she makes the cut at the Beijing Open, but I don't expect us to eat الغراب at the Dubai Open (playing in a burqa is a bitch, peace be upon you). Stay tuned.
US MNT. The US Men's National Team has been picked for Germany 2006. The US is ranked 4th (COUGH!) in the world and the squad is predictable and the strongest we have fielded in a while. The MLS MVP for 2005, Taylor Twellman, missed the squad and that seemed to be a mild surprise, but Brian Ching has been on fire for Houston. (Keep up with the goings on at US Soccer; Road to the World Cup and the Soccer Blog.)
It is a Bruce Arena team. Arena is the "equivalent" of Herb Brooks and the USA Hockey team from 1980. He values team play over individual talent. Of course, he sets himself up for second guessing if things do not work out. Group E is tough, but USA has the talent and team to emerge. There defense is not a+, but they do have a outstanding counter-attack. Can we expect an Elite 8 performance again? No, we should demand it.
MLB. Yankees-Red Sox tied atop the AL East. Life is good.
NBA. Are they done yet?
NHL. Time to start paying attention. 'Canes come back as Thew predicted and face the Devils (if there was EVER a good news/bad news scenario, this is it). My feeling is that the playoffs have set themselves up for the team from the East. (Fine, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to notice that the Top 4 seeds are still around in the East, but the bottom 4 seeds populate the West.) But I will say the Stanley Cup will go to the East Team in 5.
NFL Draft. Ho Hum. It amazes me that they make such a big deal of this. Sure the money is big, but there is not a pro league where there is such a difference in the college/pro levels as in the NFL. I like Reggie Bush, but the first time he is staring straight up at a 300 lb. lineman who just cleaned his clock (but at least he managed to avoid the 340 pounder!), realizes that dirt tastes like shit and hears those words, "Welcome to the NFL;" the thought that will run through his head is "this ain't the Rose Bowl, is it Dorothy?"
Gotta jet.
5.01.2006
HaH, ya feel me now?!
Round 1...No call
Round 2...No call
Round 3, 4, 5, 6, oh, and Round 7...NO CALL.
Think you're all that now, MARCUS VICK?
*****
In response to a verbal phone conversation, it must be duly noted that my Hurricanes are now up 3-2 on the Habs, playing like the 'Canes of the regular season. Here's to hoping they come back from a 0-2 deficit for the first time in team history. Go boys, keep it up!
*****
The Vikings picked Chad Greenway (who the hell is HE?) over A J Hawk's buddy from linebacker U, Bobby Carpenter? That doesn't pass the WTF test, lemme tell ya!
Mario Williams over Reggie Bush - been said before, but that's a HUGE reach...
Matt Leinart to #10? Hmm, well, umm, err, ahh, okay, not THAT surprising. But a surprise nevertheless.
Vince Young will be another Michael Vick...exciting, athletic, great with his feet, and will never win a Super Bowl, just like Mike. He needs to learn how to be a PRO PASSER, to hang in the pocket and not just abandon after his first read and run. Time will tell, but how many Super Bowls has Mr Vick won? As many as me...
*****
BOS - NYY tonight at Fenway. Tied for the AL East Lead. Any month, Any year, this is as it should be.
Round 2...No call
Round 3, 4, 5, 6, oh, and Round 7...NO CALL.
Think you're all that now, MARCUS VICK?
*****
In response to a verbal phone conversation, it must be duly noted that my Hurricanes are now up 3-2 on the Habs, playing like the 'Canes of the regular season. Here's to hoping they come back from a 0-2 deficit for the first time in team history. Go boys, keep it up!
*****
The Vikings picked Chad Greenway (who the hell is HE?) over A J Hawk's buddy from linebacker U, Bobby Carpenter? That doesn't pass the WTF test, lemme tell ya!
Mario Williams over Reggie Bush - been said before, but that's a HUGE reach...
Matt Leinart to #10? Hmm, well, umm, err, ahh, okay, not THAT surprising. But a surprise nevertheless.
Vince Young will be another Michael Vick...exciting, athletic, great with his feet, and will never win a Super Bowl, just like Mike. He needs to learn how to be a PRO PASSER, to hang in the pocket and not just abandon after his first read and run. Time will tell, but how many Super Bowls has Mr Vick won? As many as me...
*****
BOS - NYY tonight at Fenway. Tied for the AL East Lead. Any month, Any year, this is as it should be.
4.28.2006
Gas Bags
$3.13 for gas. Whoa. Get the posse rounded up.
Heads should roll, but not the oil company heads. Gas is a commodity and behaves according to the fundamental laws of economics. Shooting the oil companies will not changes this. There are two big reasons the price has increased: the demand is high and the supply is low. The US has made fundamentally stupid choices that have affected each.
1) Demand is High. Okay, China and India are starting to drive up demand, but we have not helped by rejecting alternatives that would ease the demand pressures in the US, primarily making sure not one watt of electricity requires oil to produce. We need to invest in alternatives (nuclear if you ask me) in driving down that part of the demand. But this is a temporary fix, our flawed policies have really focused on lack of supply.
2) Domestic Production of Oil. Open ANWR and the continental shelf for drilling. Start developing the 1 TRILLION barrels of oil field in Colorado (oil shale). Don't like to do that? Then shut the f*** up about high prices.
3) Refining Capacity. Has not increased since the 70s. If 100 billion barrels of oil were available for free, it would not do us any good. We need to add refinery capacity to get it to the pump.
BUT, if we tripled refinery capacity, that would not help. The government requires oxygenates in the gasoline, currently MTBE or ethanol. The tort bar is suing the MTBE manufacturer and the government (bought by the ethanol lobby) refused to help. So now MTBE is out of the picture. But there is not enough ethanol. Ooops. That is wrong, there is plenty of ethanol available from abroad, but there is a very expensive tariff on its import (guess who got that through).
Finally, normally we could take the excess supply from one region and use it in another. (You can see this coming.) BUT, there are 17 different state mandated formulations of gasoline, so you can't simply take the supply from Oklahoma and ship it to Georgia.
Still upset. Well, oil company profits from a gallon of gas run about $0.09-$0.10. Local, state and federal TAXES run $0.45 per gallon.
See the picture that is emerging? By all means, put a bullet in the heads of the CEOs of Exxon and Chevron, just don't be surprised when the price of gas remains the same.
UPDATE: I swear I did not read Charles Krauthammer prior to writing this post.
Heads should roll, but not the oil company heads. Gas is a commodity and behaves according to the fundamental laws of economics. Shooting the oil companies will not changes this. There are two big reasons the price has increased: the demand is high and the supply is low. The US has made fundamentally stupid choices that have affected each.
1) Demand is High. Okay, China and India are starting to drive up demand, but we have not helped by rejecting alternatives that would ease the demand pressures in the US, primarily making sure not one watt of electricity requires oil to produce. We need to invest in alternatives (nuclear if you ask me) in driving down that part of the demand. But this is a temporary fix, our flawed policies have really focused on lack of supply.
2) Domestic Production of Oil. Open ANWR and the continental shelf for drilling. Start developing the 1 TRILLION barrels of oil field in Colorado (oil shale). Don't like to do that? Then shut the f*** up about high prices.
3) Refining Capacity. Has not increased since the 70s. If 100 billion barrels of oil were available for free, it would not do us any good. We need to add refinery capacity to get it to the pump.
BUT, if we tripled refinery capacity, that would not help. The government requires oxygenates in the gasoline, currently MTBE or ethanol. The tort bar is suing the MTBE manufacturer and the government (bought by the ethanol lobby) refused to help. So now MTBE is out of the picture. But there is not enough ethanol. Ooops. That is wrong, there is plenty of ethanol available from abroad, but there is a very expensive tariff on its import (guess who got that through).
Finally, normally we could take the excess supply from one region and use it in another. (You can see this coming.) BUT, there are 17 different state mandated formulations of gasoline, so you can't simply take the supply from Oklahoma and ship it to Georgia.
Still upset. Well, oil company profits from a gallon of gas run about $0.09-$0.10. Local, state and federal TAXES run $0.45 per gallon.
See the picture that is emerging? By all means, put a bullet in the heads of the CEOs of Exxon and Chevron, just don't be surprised when the price of gas remains the same.
UPDATE: I swear I did not read Charles Krauthammer prior to writing this post.
The Dance of Court
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...
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...
4.27.2006
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.
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